[Vinson]

Today’s Tickets
Kadayah has earned 3 tickets!
CyJ lover has earned 5 tickets!
Temper has earned 2 tickets!


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Ticket Running Total
appleschloss ; 11
Black Dog Haunting ; 6
chellerd ; 4
CyJ lover ; 9
DarkestWerewolf ; 1
Griffin Torrens ; 2
Kadayah ; 5
Kenjaku ; 16
kijauni ; 4
miraphoenix ; 6
phrogMutt ; 6
Shadow17 ; 16
Temper ; 11
werepickle ; 2
YourLostTeddyBear ; 12

[Wolfgrrl216]

Prompt Number: 13
Response: [check any minimum requirements!] Sterling, Lilac Piebald
Prompt Number: 14
Response: [check any minimum requirements!] I think Colt and Marley are the parents of litter 3
Prompt Number: 15
Response: [check any minimum requirements!] Cloud Sparkle | Cloud is one of my favorites because I've always loved the lilac fur colors. Adopt link: Forum/viewtopic.php?f=124&t=4552460
Prompt Number: 16
Response: [check any minimum requirements!] I joined recently after I'd been watching from the side lines. Everyone's been so nice ever since I joined

[Griffin Torrens]

Prompt Number: 2. What does a typical day at your kennel look like?
Response: 421/150+

The owner of the kennel is not a morning person, refusing to wake up when it's not light out. Luckily for those collies that enjoy watching the sun rise and feeling the tingle of it's first rays, there are kennel workers up just before dawn to let those collies out into the yard or take them for a walk while other workers give their kennels a spot clean. As more dogs wake, they get the same treatment, and by 10am when the owner wakes up, almost all the collies are bright eyed and ready for the day!

Breakfast comes first, each collie having a diet catered to their evolving needs. Most collies eat together (monitored of course) but a few prefer returning to the safety of their kennel for breakfast.

After breakfast, collie's days tend to blur a little with how unique their lives are. Some are taken on adventures by people trusted by the kennel, such as Grimm to the next town over's churchyard when he was found, or Hawks is often booked for parties or days out by fans who saw him at the title program and can't get enough of his easygoing personality and beautifully crafted wings. Meanwhile, other collies will get some training in for agility or herding. Izuku can't seem to go a day without training in various things, always keen to get new skills, where as collies like Satori just want to show off their natural talent and shrug off training as soon as the ribbon display is overflowing.

On a day when they don't have plans, collies will remain in the huge play area, an assortment of toys and stimulation. Some will play with workers, where as others will go to their group of friends or enjoy some alone time. Collies that aren't yet ready to be so social or have aggression issues will have dedicated socialising time with a trained handler before retiring to a smaller fenced off section to play by themselves.

Towards the end of the day collies are fed dinner, and then given one on one fuss with treats, grooming, play, and walks. The owner of the kennel makes sure to pet all the dogs themself, and rotate which they spend the most time with. Some lucky collies or those with special needs will then get to retire to the cottage for the evening while the owners reads, watches TV, or plays video games. Some collies will retire to their kennel, while others enjoy the evening socialising in the yard.

[Vinson]

Today’s Tickets
Wolfgrrl216 has earned 4 tickets!
Griffin Torrens has earned 1 ticket!


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Ticket Running Total
appleschloss ; 11
Black Dog Haunting ; 6
chellerd ; 4
CyJ lover ; 9
DarkestWerewolf ; 1
Griffin Torrens ; 3
Kadayah ; 5
Kenjaku ; 16
kijauni ; 4
miraphoenix ; 6
phrogMutt ; 6
Shadow17 ; 16
Temper ; 11
werepickle ; 2
Wolfgrrl216 ; 4
YourLostTeddyBear ; 12

[appleschloss]

Prompt Number: 4
Response: Kat has been interested in dog training since she was in middle school. Her inital drive came from seeing dogs perform incredible tricks on TV in combination with Nintendogs (let's be real we were all influenced). She started by reading every book in her library that she could see about it.

After years in 4H and acting as a junior handler, she started to settle further into the specific training she jives most with.

All of her collies start with the same basic training. During this training not only does it give the dogs a solid foundation to learn all other skills off of, but it gives Kat the chance to get a better feel for what the dog seems to enjoy most.

Some dogs end up doing multiple disciplines, but she tends to stick with two at most so she can work on solidifying and helping the dog find success in those fields as opposed to spreading them thin.

Her favorites are agility and disc, but herding has taken a higher seat in her favorites than she thought years ago. There's something about seeing a dog click with the thing they're bred for that's always exhilarating.

Other events she does include conformation and rally, with a touch of Fast CAT. She's always open to helping her dog's owners learn about new ways to have fun with her dogs and isn't afraid to try a new competition style.

[238 words]

[DarkestWerewolf]

Prompt Number: 1
Response: (203)

Wild’s Calling Kennel resides on a farm located in the countryside. Acres and acres of land have been dedicated to the various creatures there. The collies live on the farm alongside the equines and bovines of Wild’s Calling Farm.

The farm has wide open plains, trail rides and a forest along the border of the property. The collies tend to have free rein of the land but they also have a building specially made for them to sleep and eat if they choose to do so. The farm sees lush greenery for half the year through spring and summer. In autumn, the trees start to brown and the leaves will rain down. It gets pretty windy and chilly but nothing the collies haven’t dealt with. In winter, snow blankets the land. This is when the collies with thick fur thrive. They will frolick and play in the deep snow for hours on end.

The kennel does breeding, rescues and rehoming. At the moment, the kennel has just over a hundred collies registered under its name - 103 to be exact. However, not all of them stay on the farm. At least a third of them reside in the city with their own families.

Prompt Number: 8
Response: (128)

Realm of Riches // Krysos

Much like her name, Krysos offer riches - not in wealth but in knowledge. One can say she’s the therapy collie of the kennel. She can always be found lounging under a tree enjoying the gentle breeze or speaking softly to another collie. Collies who need advice on personal conflicts, life choices and relationship advices tend to go to her. Krysos has a gentle and welcoming aura which makes other collies feel comfortable enough to open up and when they do, she listens attentively and genuinely tries her best to offer advices or at the very least, provide them another perspective. Most collies feel a lot better after speaking to her and those who take her advices do find themselves to be in a better place than before.

Prompt Number: 13
Response:

Brooks - Liver & tan agouti

Prompt Number: 14
Response:

Im guessing Arreta x Kaibun to be the parents of Litter 1

Prompt Number: 15
Response:

Silent Whispers // Sardonyx

She is my very first collie. The one that really got my entire kennel going. I still remember the joy I had when I saw that I won her. Back then, the mystery card event was happening early morning for my timezone and I was so determined to win one. I had alarms going off at like 5.30am so I wouldn’t miss it.
A few rounds went by and I wasn’t lucky enough. Until the final round, I rolled for a collie. I was so excited but also so exhausted from the whole ordeal that I crashed before she was revealed. But I woke up to such a stunning collie <3

Her agouti was stunning and she’s given me sooooo many gorgeous pups. Even to this day. Her lineage in Beaumont collies is still going. So proud to have her. My beautiful Sardonyx <3

[Vinson]

Today’s Tickets
appleschloss has earned 1 ticket!
DarkestWerewolf has earned 4 tickets!
- for your response to prompt number 14 to be valid, make sure to guess the parents from the ten posted event adults! please feel free to resubmit your response to this prompt.


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Ticket Running Total
appleschloss ; 12
Black Dog Haunting ; 6
chellerd ; 4
CyJ lover ; 9
DarkestWerewolf ; 5
Griffin Torrens ; 3
Kadayah ; 5
Kenjaku ; 16
kijauni ; 4
miraphoenix ; 6
phrogMutt ; 6
Shadow17 ; 16
Temper ; 11
werepickle ; 2
Wolfgrrl216 ; 4
YourLostTeddyBear ; 12
[/quote]

[fleurs]

Please note that ALL photos are found on Pinterest, credit to all original photographers.
Prompts #001, #002, #003, #005, #006 on this post!

Prompt Number: #001
Response: Welcome to Carpe Noctum Kennels! Located amongst the beautiful PNW, our kennels strive to provide the best for all of our inhabitants. From the lone critters that seek shelter surrounding our grounds to the nearly forty dogs nestled snug in their plush bedding, Carpe Noctum has it all. Please see below for further details about our facility.

The Arrival ─ While coming to Carpe Noctum, enjoy the gorgeous forestry that surrounds our kennels! Further along the drive, you will be able to see the Pacific Ocean. Take some time to enjoy your view whether it's rolling down your window or pulling over to enjoy the sights. The protection of local wildlife is very important to our organization, so please do not harm or disturb any animals you see along the way. After parking, follow the wooden trail to your left that borders the lake. After three miles of walking, you will arrive to the front of Carpe Noctum.

The Kennels ─ Once you've checked in with the front desk and spoken to one of our managers, please feel free to explore the building. All lower-level rooms home our young adult and foster-ready canines. These dogs are free for you to take out, with permission and a guide, to explore our grounds while creating a connection with them. The upper-level rooms are where we keep our elder dogs and nursing mothers/orphaned puppies. Please note that, while you are allowed to see these dogs, we do not allow them to be taken out unless you have a scheduled appointment. If you walk through the main building and exit through our backdoor, you will see a house a handful of yards away. This is where the owner of Carpe Noctum resides. Our veterinarian clinic and outdoor kennels for slightly aggressive dogs are located in this area as well. Access is only allowed to those with prior appointments.

The Grounds ─ While exploring, whether it's by yourself or with one of our furry friends, feel free to visit any of these spots! Come enjoy a warm campfire and smores with us just behind the main building (5:00pm to 7:30pm Mondays-Thursdays / 5:00pm to 10:00pm Fridays and Saturdays). Go for a walk along our private dog-friendly beach! Be warned, it becomes very cold so make sure you have some extra clothes to bundle up with. Further down the beach you will be able to have access to explore an old lighthouse. Seize the night with the light that this structure brings!

We hope you enjoy Carpe Noctum and all that it has to offer! (429 words)




Prompt Number: #002
Response: In the early morning hours at Carpe Noctum, all dogs are brought out by our employees to stretch their legs and socialize. The main gate is to be kept locked at all times outside of business hours, allowing each dog full range of the property without the chance of getting lost. Any nursing, elderly, or aggressive dogs are taken out individually to help provide the best care for each animal. Employees walk around the grounds to help get ready for the day with clearing up any waste, refilling water and food dishes, and checking to make sure that all of the dogs at Carpe Noctum are at their best health.

There is a twenty-four-hour veterinarian onsite at all times in case of emergencies. Throughout the day, if any dog displays symptoms of illness or injury, they are taken to the clinic and examined. All pregnant dogs have around-the-clock care and are closely monitored.

Mondays through Thursdays there are campfires and smores from 5:00pm to 7:30pm for all staff and visitors at Carpe Noctum. Music and games are also provided daily during this time. The activities start from 5:00pm to 10:00pm on Fridays, along with Movie-on-the-Beach starting at 7:00pm for anyone to attend. During these events, our friendliest collies are allowed to roam free with everyone and share their love.

Weekends are spent with employees and volunteers taking the dogs on walks around our grounds. Whether their solo or in groups, each dog who is able to accompany a handler will be walked from the kennels to our private beach and throughout the forestry before brought back to Carpe Noctum for their normal care! (278 words)




Prompt Number: #003
Response: All newcomers, whether canine or human, are drawn to the location of our kennels! The PNW grounds are such a relaxing sight to many that come to Carpe Noctum. Having access to a well-sized private beach, forestry and land surrounding the kennels, and a bubbling river on their way to us ― are enjoyable to all. (Human) guests are given many opportunities to form a community within Carpe Noctum during their visit, while all dogs are free to spend from their younger years to their elder years in comfort.

Besides our location, guests have complimented many employees at Carpe Noctum at how efficiently the kennels are run. With a day-to-day schedule and many pre-planned activities, we pride ourselves on having the perfect rhythm when it comes to caring for our collies! Mistakes can be made, however, and sometimes the schedules do fall through! However, it's safe to say that both two-legged and four-legged friends have many ways to be wowed when coming to visit/stay with us at Carpe Noctum! (169 words)




Prompt Number: #005
Response: Here at Carpe Noctum, there are three different ways that collies coming to our kennels are welcomed! Each dog, disregarding which category they fall under, is given a treat and new toy upon arrival (as well as a name if needed).

Young Adult/Adult Dogs ─ After receiving their treats and toys, all young adult and adult dogs are brought to one of our sectioned-off dog parks onsite to play outside before being socialized. This gives the dogs freedom to get to know their new home while also keeping them close for easy access. Any dogs with slight signs of aggression at first are to be left alone until THEY are ready. Employees will bring the dogs to the lower-level rooms and play with them or allow them to explore their new kennels. Collars will be placed on if the dog allows.

Pregnant/Nursing Dogs + Puppies ─ After receiving their treats and toys, all pregnant or nursing dogs and puppies are brought straight to one of our veterinarians onsite for a check-up. They are constantly given attention and love during this time to help bring down nerves and to socialize. If all is okay, employees will bring the dogs to our upper-level rooms and care for them in which ever way is needed. Collars will be placed onto mothers if the dog allows.

Elder Dogs ─ After receiving their treats and toys, all elder dogs are to be brought to one of our sectioned-off dog parks onsite to relax and be outside. These dogs can decide whether they want to socialize or not. Employees are instructed to let them stretch their legs for as long as needed before bringing the dogs up to the upper-level rooms. Once inside, socialization and naps are given to the elder dogs. Collars will be placed on if the dog allows. (305 words)




Prompt Number: #006
Response: Carpe Noctum is always ecstatic when new puppies are born or brought into our kennels. While we don't have specific traditions, there will always be a employee-only bonfire that night to celebrate their arrival. We believe in community and bringing people together when happy things happen. Newborn puppies (and their mothers if applicable) are given around-the-clock care by all employees and onsite veterinarians for two weeks after their birth. This is to ensure safety for all collies involved. If orphaned or abandoned puppies are brought to Carpe Noctum, all employees and veterinarians will be called in for check-ups and care. Birthmothers are always given lots of hugs and treats when they allow and are constantly praised. Puppies without mothers are fostered-out by employees until their a year-old to make sure that they can receive constant care and can learn without the interruption of older dogs here at Carpe Noctum kennels. (150 words)

[Griffin Torrens]

Short story of Keigo joining the Kennel covering a few prompts because I have an obsession <3

Prompt Number: 3. What do newcomers find most interesting about your kennel?
Response: 458/150+ words

Wind blew satisfyingly though the golden collies fur as he leaned out the car window, intent on catching every smell and sight that flickered past. He wasn't sure yet how he felt about the turn of events that led to this moment, but for now he was content to gather all the information he could and then decide if he'd stick around or take flight as soon as he had the chance.

Glancing quickly over his shoulder to check his harness was still secure he marvled at the way the wind ruffled the red feathers, memories dancing across his mind of all the places they'd been with him, all the people they'd helped save. Before the unpleasant memory of a crimson flash could resurface, he returned his gaze out the window, ears perking when the car began to slow.

A flurry of barks seemed to be triggered as the car came to a halt, collies of every colour working their way towards a fence line close to the vehicle. The shear number of collies in sight was outstanding, and that wasn't even considering the ones he could scent. Some were wagging their tails excitedly, giving little yips of greeting, while others hung back, pretending to be busy while they watched from the corner of their eye. Yet to his surprise, there was still order to the chaos.

Letting his gaze sweep over the vast field, he noticed how the dogs wove around each other and fit together like a carefully crafted birds nest. A distinctive red and white collie held a defensive stance while a curly furred one darted in and out in a sort of training, eyes serious. Yet when a three legged collie hobbled between them, too distracted playing tug with a collie that's eyes seemed to hold a lifetime of stories and questions despite it's young age, the older pair paused, casting warm smiles, before continuing when the pups had moved on.

Further on he could see a collection of dark furred collies that bared a striking resemblance, catching up in a familial atmosphere, one Keigo wishes he could have experienced. There was a closeness between them that would be hard to match, yet when another approached the group with a friendly smile, he was drawn into the scene with such ease.

All over, collies played or talked, some expressing their joy with over the top gestures, while others bowed their heads in quiet conversation, pinned ears and painted eyes giving away the sensitive nature as a companion offered comfort with ear licks or soft words. Here and there a collie snapped, posture conveying their irritation, but only warmth or exasperation, no real threat.

The social structure was fascinating, and Keigo wanted to learn more.

Prompt Number: 5. How do you welcome new collies into your kennel?
Response: 577/150+

Unless a collie has known relations already inside the Kennel, I which case they'll be re-introduced almost immediately to help them settle, new collies are kept away from the rest of the dogs at the compound while the owner monitors their behaviour. Taking the key out the ignition, the owner turned to their left, leaning forward to peer around a pair of red feathered wings. Usually any movement would lead to Hawks' eyes flicking over, intent on assessing every movement, but this time the golden collie kept his gaze fixed firmly on the field of collies. Using this as a first test, the owner studies his body language, relieved to find no signs of anxiety or aggression. Good, we shouldn't need to quarantine him or do social training, they thought with a nod.

Opening the car door, they made their way around the front of the car until they could open the passenger side, leaning over to unbuckle the safety harness. Hawks reminded leisurely seated until they gave the command to jump out. Good at following instructions and not giving in to temptation, the owner noted with satisfaction. In this case, they had already known the collie was professionally trained, but as with all new members it was better to see the proof yourself than take someone's word for it. In a graceful swoop, Hawks landed neatly on the ground, wings held close to his side from the confined space of the car. Now in the open, he turned his head, gently grasping one of the longest feathers in his teeth at the joint and tugging it. The wire shifted, opening up the wing in an impressive display, and he quickly repeated the action on the other side. It was a unique behaviour, but CSK was all about learning each collie's quirks and letting their true colours shine, so the owner simply waited until he was finished before prompting him to follow.

With no signs of stress which would have led to a new collie being settled into their new kennel, the owner deemed it okay to give a tour. Even though they knew collies wouldn't understand every word, they were sure to talk as they went, easy conversation often a needed encouragement to more nervous collies. Ears twitching was the only sign Hawks was listening, eyes and nose seeming to be on overdrive as he studied his new surroundings, but no matter where they went his gaze kept drifting to the field of collies.

Once the tour ended, the owner knelt down and offered a hand towards the new collie, close but not touching in case that would cross a boundary, but the fluffy dog leaned into the touch, letting them card their hands though his feather soft neck fur. Smiling, the human offered him a treat - chicken, as the trainers had informed we're his favourite - which was readily accepted.

"You want to go meet them, don't you boy?" They finally asked, gaze shifting to the field. Seeming to understand, Hawks let out a small gruff, tail swaying in the slightest of wags, the first the human has seen. Letting out a chuckle, they decided he'd passed all the necessary checks and there was no point delaying the most important aspect of new collies joining the kennel: meeting their new companions. It was a well rehearsed event, and the owner trusted it would go without a hitch, but as always, remained cautious and watchful as always.

Prompt Number: 12. Which of your collies is most likely to approach a new arrival first?
Response: 852/100+

Wings spanning an impressive span as the breeze ruffled them, Keigo felt too many eyes to count watching him. He waited, seeming impassive, as the owner walked through the gate and shooed the gathering of collies a little further back in an action that seemed muscle memory. His glaze flicked from one pelt to the next, gathering as much information as he could. Finally, the owner stepped aside and ushered him in, leash still attached but held slack. Holding himself high, he put on a lopsided smile and stepped forward.

"Please can I go say hi first," a voice whined. Keigo let his eyes seek out the speaker, seeing a soft looking pelt and a wildly wagging tail, paws working impatiently on the spot.

Cold eyes flashed in the crowd as a collie let out a warning grumble. "You only just got here yourself Daisuki, what gives you the right to represent us?" He snapped, but there was no real bite to the words, just a misplaced sort of pride. Someone who's been here a long time. He probably thinks he would be leader if he was interested in the role, Keigo guessed from the way he spoke and moved.

"Sometimes not being the only new one helps," the freckled collie that had been training earlier supplied brightly, recieving a knowing look from his companion. Those two clearly have history and arrived together, he realised, wondering if he would in fact prefer to have not been stood alone right now. I doubt it would make much difference.

Shifting in the crowd hinted that collies were about to begin taking sides, but before any could get a word in, a soft collie hopped forwards on three legs, catching everyone's attention. "Come on guys, instead of squabbling like a bunch of pups how about we let Phoenix through like we agreed? It's practically tradition at this point," they placated. Almost on command, every collie settled down and shifted, creating a pathway. Keigo kept his gaze on the three legged collie a moment longer, interested in why a collie some might have referred to as lesser held so much respect over collies with such contrasting personalities.

Shelving this thought for later, he waited patiently as a flame coloured collie made her way over, muzzle greying but eyes still full of life. "Sorry about all this, collies aren't normal this excited about a new arrival, but your wings are quite the talk of the kennel," she said in a warm tone.

Keigo let out a lighthearted chuckle. "I get that a lot," he replied in a teasing tone, "but they're practically part of me," he admitted with an aloof shrug.

"That's a story I can't wait to hear if you tell it some day," the old collie replied, clearly curious and fighting to remain respectfully neutral. "I'm Phoenix by the way, I was the first collie rehomed to this Kennel, so I've seen a lot of new arrivals in my time," she explained, and Keigo couldn't help but watch as some of the surrounding collies gave small nods, as if remembering being in this exact situation. "What's your name?"

The golden collie answered almost on reflex. "I'm Hawks."

"That seems to be a fitting name," Phoenix said with a happy tail wag. "Now, we don't want to overwhelm you," she said, shooting a firey glare at the gathered collies surrounding them, "So we can leave you to explore on your own, or as I'm getting older I'm sure one of the younger dogs will take you on a tour?"

"I think I'll take a look around myself," he replied easily. While he was no stranger to large numbers of eyes fixated on him and hoards of collies, children, and adults all swarming him in admiration, it didn't mean he particularly enjoyed it.

Phoenix seemed to understand, and gave an enthusiastic nod. "Sure! We'll go about as we would normally, but we'd all love to say hi properly when you're up for it, so don't hesitate to approach us! And if you're unsure of anything just come talk to me, okay, Hawks?"

Sitting down, the golden collie nodded, and watched in amusement as Phoenix turned and tried her best to wrangle the gathering away with the help of some other seemingly respected collies. He caught a number of them risking glances at him over their shoulders, dragging their paws to prolong leaving, or even whispering to one another about him, but it didn't bother him. Left with nothing but a few looks his way from across the field and the human stood just outside the fence, he gave himself a quick shake, realigning his fur and feathers.

It was time to get to work. He may officially be retired, but there was no way his instincts would simply stop. If he were to protect this place and the collies in it, he'd have to learn all he could. Glancing over his shoulder, he caught the human's eye and gave his tail a small wag. In reply he was giving a warm smile, and the leash was unclipped.

Prompt Number: 8. Which of your collies is best at giving advice?
Response: 1,013/100+

Free to explore, Keigo set off at an easy yet swift trot, thrilling in the way the breeze caught under his wings, making him feel he could be weightless and flying if he desired. Never missing the way collies he passed watched him with either curiosity, confusion or awe, he kept his eyes flicking from one direction to another at a speed that would make anyone else dizzy. Nose twitching, he patrolled the perimeter, trying to identify and memorise the scent of each collie he passed, as well as the scents of each area. Kennels are that way. There's a forest over there, it's used often for walks I'd guess by the scent, but I'll have to check it often as it could easily conceal danger, he determined.

Roughly half an hour later he lounged down, satisfied for the time being. Next on his list was figuring out what the deal with this large number of collies was. Even though Phoenix had offered to assist him and seemed to hold the title of unofficial leader, there was one collie his mind kept returning to, and his eyes quickly sought them out. Carefully folding his wings a little closer to his side to seem less threatening, Keigo rose to his feet and began padding over at an easy pace, hiding his interest behind a lazy smile.

"Hey," he said by way of a greeting, watching intently as the collie perked up in a mixture of anxious and excited surprise, attention turning away from the two young collies he'd seen playing earlier that day.

"Oh, hey!"

Their tone was warm and welcoming, but Keigo could see a question in their gaze, as if they wondered why he'd approached them of all collies. He noted how their tail was curled around their right, covering the stump of their missing leg. They seem confident in who they are on the outside, but maybe not in their subconscious?

The younger black one that also had three legs hobbled excitedly over, but the white speckled one tugged him back by the tail. "Come on, let's go play over there and let Trinket talk to Hawks, he probably doesn't want to play with us just yet," they suggested, looking the collie seemingly named Trinket for reassurance.

When the collie with droopy ears gave them a proud smile, the young black and white collie's tail wagged and they half led half shoved the other away. Watching them go fondly, it took Trinket a while to drag their gaze away and onto Keigo. "What can I do for you?" They finally asked, the words seeming to carry more weight than your general greeting.

Sounds like they're used to saying the words in a serious setting. Perhaps they worked in some kind of rescue like me? Sitting down, Keigo considered his next words. "You seem like the kind of collie that can get along with everyone," he stated, watching intently for their reaction.

Trinket seemed to relax a little at the words, but they let their eyes wander as if overcome with thoughts or memories. "You could say that," they supplied as a half answer, and this only intrigued him more.

Never one to dance around what he wanted to say if it could be avoided, Keigo was blunt when he spoke next. "You definitely have a lot of respect in the Kennel, why's that?"

Gaze snapping quickly back to his, Trinket seemed to study him for a second, as if trying to figure him out the way he was doing to them. Keigo simply held their gaze, eyes determined and easy grin replaced by a look of seriousness. Eventually Trinket blinked and looked around the field, eyes resting on a collie here or there. Whatever they'd seen in him must have reassured them in some way, because their body language seemed to open up, and Keigo was dying to know what that meant. "I may not seem like I can do much," they finally admitted, tail tucking tighter around their stump, "but I know a lot about feelings, and I like to help others. It's a long story, but that young collie there," the brindle dog gesture to the young black and white collie, "Senomoide had a rough past, and I did my best to help them through it. The other one looks up to me because I'm like him, and I do what I can to reassure him. I guess news spread around the kennel, and before long collies started coming my way for advice." There was an obvious pride in their voice, but Keigo felt it sounded as they didn't quite believe in themself as much as those around them seemed to. However it explained a lot. If this collie had done their best to share other collies burdens and work though issues, it was only natural they'd be respected and looked up to.

Eyes softening, Keigo nodded. "I didn't mean to offend you, I didn't doubt that the respect was deserved. In fact, I know how you feel. It's almost like Hero work, isn't it?"

Trinket let out a light chuckle, flashing him a playful glance. "That's one word for it, but from what I've heard, you're the real Hero here Hawks," they retorted. "I've seen you in the news before, you've saved a lot of people. It can't have been easy," they added, voice lowering in volume and sounding a little sad. "I know you don't know me well, but if you ever want to talk about it, I'll be here."

Guard strengthening when memories threated to resurface, he rose and shook his fur, letting his wings expand a little at the force. "Thanks, but it's nothing you have to worry about," he said with a practiced smile. "I'd best be off to meet some of the other interesting characters here." Dipping his head respectfully, an action they mirrored, the golden collie headed away.

Perhaps one day, Trinket was a collie he could talk to as Keigo, but for now he was satisfied playing the role of Hawks.

(Might link another entry or two to this same story in a new post but gonna leave it here and post it now before I forget)

[Griffin Torrens]

Okay just gonna quickly do this one too 👀

Prompt Number: 15. Show off one of your favorite collies and tell us a little about why they’re your favorite!
Response: I have a lot of "go to" favourites for various reasons, from looks to sentimental value, but here's one I don't show off as often as the likes of Satori, Trinket, Hero, Celosia, Chikai, or my character collies!

CSK's Some Stories Never Leave Us | Kyro

This collie means a lot to me in so many ways, and is almost a little bitter sweet. Back during A level Film Studies we had the task to create a short film. For months I developed a story. Kyro was my main character. They started off as a male, based on my current obsession of Shadow Link (Four Swords) with the other character having references to Vio, because I was intrigued by and related to their rocky relationship. As the characters developed I started adding more and more of myself into Kyro. In the end it was a meticulously planned out short film in my memo, notes for what camera angle each shot would have, and the story had an overall heavy message about mental health, not feeling like you deserve what the universe gives you, and accepting help from others. I even began sketching some frames.

But in the end?

I dropped it. I couldn't tell you why because I can't remember. I did a different film that was less complicated and less personal, because I was scared to show that side of myself, but it never left me, and I still think about it.

When I made this collie as a staff custom it represented my love of simple yet striking designs, especially with contrast. At the time only female x male collies could breed so Kyro was assigned female at birth but was labeled they/them, something I didn't mind as it made them feel even closer to me. With Ari as a custom too, it makes me happy that at least *some* version of Kyro and their soulmate exist! And maybe one day I'll finally have the heart to evolve their story into a collie version <3