"The pre-eminent and morning star, for she gives the sign in operations, she shines first, then comes the sun, both evening and morning, which is a marvel to behold."
Stellan Era - Queen Stella's reign was marked by dramatic changes and cataclysms in Yliaster. Under her rule, much of the territory beyond the Mountains has been explored, and some areas even settled. The pack has moved a total of six times during this era. During the Cataclysms in Year 6 of her reign, 90% of the pack was wiped out due to disasters, disease, famine and rebellion. During this time Stella had also separated from her long-time companion and co-founder of the pack, Seamrog. The only survivors besides them were the pack's second stud, Wanax (who later abandoned the pack), the pack's new Herbalist Nessa, priestess St. Alessia, and hunter Kulpa with her newborn pup and future heir, Kyllikki Ava'al. Despite the losses and tragedies, Stella Signata persevered, and regrouped, become a safe haven for many wolves fleeing disasters and outside threats. The reunion with Seamrog marked a new beginning for the pack, new laws and regulations were set up to ensure an organized structure, hierarchy, strict regulations on reproduction, fair distribution of resources and suitable work according to rank. Although Queen Stella later had another son, Micah, it was decreed that her grandson Kyllikki was the most suitable heir to the throne of Yliaster, on account of his ability to survive extreme circumstances since puppyhood, his spirit, strength of character, and leadership capabilities in times of difficulty. It was the most popular and well-received decision in her reign, and ensured that a period of stability and prosperity would soon be upon them.
In her 6th year, during the spring season, Stella lost a fight with a Lava Bear in the desert and got a nasty case of mange. The Herbalist Nessa was gone foraging for herbs almost the entire day, and could not immediately attend to the Queen's condition.
Earlier that week, a lead wolf from another pack, also named Stella, had passed away from old age. This experience made her reflect deeper on her own mortality and old age.
"I told you it was an omen!" Stella cried to her mate, Seamrog.
Horrified at first, Stella soon changed her demeanor when she saw how scared the pack's pups became of her, and took this as an opportunity to teach them about the consequences of losing to Lava Bears, how important it is to be brave in the face of death, and when it's okay to back down from a fight sometimes. And to never, ever, go against the side you have chosen - even if that side is neutral.
"I'm not as young as I used to be. I should have known..."
