Hey y’all! It’s day #9 of the Countdown to Trouble. For each day I’m going to post something about the novel. It may just be a pic that helped me along while writing it, or it may be more. You’ll have to keep checking, lol. Especially this Friday. *wink*
~The Ranks
Alpha:
The Alpha is the leader of the clowder; they try
their best to keep up with the going ons. They make important decisions that reflect the growth and
welfare of the clowder. The Alpha creates the rules and makes sure
they are properly enforced.
Another important responsibility of the Alpha is to
maintain the clowder's hunting territory. The Alpha calls group hunts and decides
when and where to hunt, along with the Betas and Hunters. The Alpha provides an
emotional center for the family and focus for friendly feeling within the clowder. One
of the most important social functions of the Alpha is to help maintain an even
temper and bond of the family.
During clowder meetings, most issues will be
discussed with the elders and/or betas. The final decision will be made by the
Alpha after all opinions are heard by the clowder members. The Alphas have the
final say so in everything, yet act only for the good of the clowder.
Beta:
The Beta is the second ranking
individual within the dominance hierarchy. They show commitment and loyalty to
the clowder, also acting as a discipliner to reinforce the Alpha's decisions. The Head
Beta stand in as Alpha when the Alpha(s) are not present. They answer to no one
but their Alphas, but are expected, as with all members, to show respect to
everyone.
They also assist the Alphas with any conflicts within the clowder and
enforce the rules, keeping peace within the clearing. They have the right to
kick and ban a cat from the clearing, after fair warning of wrong actions,
such as fighting. Betas may also call hunts, deciding when and where to hunt,
along with the Hunters.
In clowder meetings, the Betas' answers and suggestions
are the second most important, being trusted advisers to the Alpha, only
thinking for the good of the clowder as a whole.
Delta:
The Delta wolf is in training for Beta
position. They are third in rank to Alpha and Beta. Delta's do not hold the
authority to call medium or large Hunts. That is a privilege to only ranked
Alphas, Betas, and SM Hunters. Deltas usually become the next Beta after
training is complete but one can remain Delta without moving to Beta position.
When this is the case, if ever the current Beta is removed from their rank,
steps down, changes rank, or leaves the pack, the Delta may take the place as
the new Beta at the Alpha's request.