Post by §k¥ on Jun 25, 2008 8:40:23 GMT -5
[li]Alpha/Alphess(2 per pack): the pack Leader; the highest rank in the entire pack. This rank gains the highest respect from all other pack members. The Alphas are often the strongest or most wise in the ways of the wolf.
The Alpha wolves are behind all of the most important decisions within the pack. They must be able to interact well with others and communicate their ideas effectively in order to lead. It is most often the Alpha who decides whether or not a wolf may join the pack.
Also, the Alpha wolves are the only wolves that may breed without permission. All others must have the consent of the Alpha's before breeding. This is not because the Alpha's don't want their members to become parents. An Alpha may refuse a sub-ordinate's breeding request if the pack has grown too large, or if prey is insufficient.
[/li][li]Beta/Betan(2 per pack): the second highest rank in the pack. The Beta wolves are the right paw of the Alpha wolves, and are expected to take over leadership in the Alpha's absence. If an Alpha dies suddenly, a Beta may take his/her place if the Alpha had not chosen an Heir. Beta wolves are permitted to accept loners into the pack. However, an Alpha may override the decision.
[/li][li]Gamma(2 per pack): the third highest rank within the pack, a Gamma wolf shares many responsibilities with a Beta. If, for some reason, the Beta wolves are not available to assume leadership in the absence of the Alpha, the duty falls to the Gamma.
[/li][li]Heir(1-2 per pack): the heirs to the Alpha rank, often the son/daughter of the current Alpha's, although this is not always the case. In any case, there are usually one, though there may be two, if the one Hier has already chosen a mate and said mate is part of the same pack. The Alpha wolves often choose their heirs when they are nearing the end of their leadership.
Intermediate Ranks
[/li][li]Commander(2 per pack): There are always 2 Commanders within a pack. One is in charge of the Guardians, the other in charge of the rest of the fighting pack members.
[/li][li]Tutor(1-2 per pack): often a more senior member of the pack. It is a Tutor's responsiblity to teach the pack's pups in the ways of the wolf, and the pack.
Low Ranks
[/li][li]Guardian(unlimited): the duties of a guardian include defending the den from invasion in times of war, so they must be strong. A Guardian must also be fit, and quick thinking. The Guardian is under the command of his/her respective Commander.
[/li][li]Sub-ordinate(unlimited): the rank assigned to a new member upon being granted entry into a pack. The Sub-ordinate will need to prove his/her loyalty to the pack and impress the higher ranks with their skill in order to gain a promotion.
[/li][li]Pup: any wolf aged 0 to 1 years is considered a 'pup'. Pups have no real responsibility within the pack. Once a pup has turned 1 year old, they often begin learning new skills under the pack's Tutor.
[/li][li]Omega(unlimited): is a rank given to an individual who brought shame upon themselves by disrespecting the pack. While their deed was not enough to warrant expulsion, this member is usually looked down on by pack mates. In time, an Omega wolf may redeem themselves and rise in the ranks, and the eyes of his/her peers once again.[/li][/ul]