The Howl

The OOC
The short version: The Howl is a recurring roleplay event created for the Cenarion Guardians but usable by anyone. What you need:


 * a quiet location, preferably with a fire
 * every participant brings a story that is 1) true, 2) related to your personal backstory, and 3) about either the lost or the victorious
 * every story ends in everyone present howling (or screaming, or banging shields, or whatever loud noise suits your char)
 * when all stories are told, do whatever

The IC
The Howl is a tradition started by Sentinel Huntresses during the Long Vigil. It has several purposes: the stories told at a Howl can be memorials to lost friends or family, warnings to young warriors, or shining examples served as inspiration. The common thread is that all stories are true, are somehow personal to the teller, and about deaths of victories that have affected the teller personally. Because of this, a Howl also serves to build bonds and familiarity between those who come: it encourages sharing the personal history most important to you.

Over time the practice has been adopted by other martial forces. Traditional times to hold a Howl include times when new war bands form, or when several war bands join to fight together, or after great battles have taken place and been celebrated. Because of this, it is agreed that there are no ranks at a Howl - all come only as warriors.

Ettiquette
Howls may involve more or less formality, depending on who holds them, but a few rules apply always.


 * There are no ranks at a Howl. All are equal, and there is no particular distinction in speaking first or last.
 * Interrupting a story with talk is rude. (It also makes chat hard to follow. However, /emoting reactions to the story is cool, builds atmosphere and encourages the storyteller ... do that!)
 * The traditional way to finish stories is, "I howl for , so that ." After this, everyone present howls, screams, bang their shield or makes whatever (loud!) noise suits them.
 * Once a story is finished, it can be commented on (if people want to), until the next one begins.
 * Lying at a Howl is shameful. Not telling a story is very unusual, unless there are too many participants to let everyone talk.