[Macabre.]

Username:Macabre.
Clan: BirchClan & FairCountry

Quest Number: #1
Response: Draw or write about the hierarchy of your cats. FairCountry
Word Count: 318

Overlords
Leaders of FairCountry, they control all the major events
they employ mostly commoners, and maybe a few scholars,
and have a small group of High Fae as advisors, one of which
will eventually take over the overlords position.
│
│
High Fae
Second only to the Overlords. They advise the Overlords, and
are typically related. They are learning the ropes, and will each
have a special job or area of expertise . They will fight each
other to take over an overlords position when one becomes sick,
dies, or disappears.
│
│
Scholars
Scholars are academically inclined. they study the world and
they each have their own niche within their specialty.
Collectors: Collect physical objects to learn about them
Gardeners: Grow plants and herbs
Bestiaries: Can talk to animals
│
│
Commoners
The most common of citizens in the Fae World, commoners keep the
world running by doing whatever jobs need doing. Typically employed
by an overlord or scholars. Commoners can have magic but powerful
commoners become Scholars, High Fae, or Overlords.
│
│
Tenderfoots
Tenderfoots are Scholars in training. When commoners show great
promise they are placed with a scholar to learn more about their magic.
│
│
Whisps
Whisps are a subset of Scholars, specializing in the care of others. Typically
they care for new mothers, as well as the sick and injured. They also take
care of all orphaned or abandoned kits.
Caretakers: Responsible for raising the young ones
Healers: Use their knowledge to heal others
│
│
Ancestors
Oldest Fae. Ancestors are now to old to hold power or care for themselves,
they may have retired from being a respected scholar or a beloved overlord.
They are typically well respected and protected by family.
│
│
Remnants
Outsiders and Outcasts. By choice or force these cats are unwanted by the rest
of FairCountry. They wander alone for the most part, sometimes forming small groups.

Quest Number: #2
Response: BatSwoop and PebbleDust
Word Count:

[I Like Bees]

Username: I Like Bees
Clan: The Edge

Quest Number: #1

Draw or write about the hierarchy of your cats.

Response:

While she was never formally named as such, Dragonfly has been accepted as the leader of the Travelers through her seniority in experience and her confidence in leading the group. What she says goes - and cats trust her to get all of them through the day, as she's been here the longest. She's confident and acts like she knows what she's doing - even if she doesn't always - so when much of the group is lost or less experienced, it's easier to rely on Dragonfly's decisions to get them through the day.

Dragonfly isn't overly controlling, and generally leans towards giving the group a direction or goal to work towards and organizing them to get there, rather than micromanaging details of plans. She trusts her groupmates to work hard, and to protect themselves and each other. There's little opposition to her leadership - not that she'd listen to much criticism anyway.

The exception is from her partner, Frog, who serves as her Second in leadership. Generally, this role consists of acting as a sort of advisor in Dragonfly's decisions, as he tries to tone down her sometimes reckless nature and encourage more peaceful solutions. He's not always in the right either, though, as sometimes their surroundings truly are just dangerous and can't be trusted. Together, the two balance each other out and reach decisions that are better for the group as a whole. Frog lacks Dragonfly's confident and charismatic exterior, though, and while he's next in line to take charge on days that something happens to her, he's not suited to constant primary leadership.

If both Dragonfly and Frog were to fall on the same day, leadership would likely pass to those next highest in seniority - that is, those who have been living in this world the longest. Experience is a necessary trait for navigating and surviving an ever-changing world like theirs, and most of the group recognizes and respects this. Twist would likely be a primary candidate due to his mix of seniority and confidence, but he's likely to end up in conflict with the rather competitive yet less senior Wormslayer for the role.

Ghost, interestingly, also serves somewhat of an advisor role to his parents' leadership, despite his young age. His connection to the world around them gives him a sense of what's to come and perception of unseen danger, which make him an invaluable asset to the team, especially as his parents have learned to better interpret his behavior. Unlike a traditional clan, the role of healer - held by Squiggle - doesn't hold much authority and is simply a job.

Outside of their primary leadership figures, the group has a secondary hierarchy as well. Dragonfly and Frog can't easily be responsible for keeping track of everyone at once - especially when the group is growing all the time - but everyone's safety is a priority. To better keep the group safe and ensure no one is left behind, the larger Travelers group is organized into subgroups of three cats each (or occasionally four, with the fourth typically being a younger cat that the rest of the subgroup is responsible for protecting).

Each subgroup organizes their own internal hierarchy. Whether they appoint one cat as leader, make their decisions as a group, or rock-paper-scissors to decide who chooses is up to them. Frog occasionally serves as a mediator for groups who aren't getting along well, and he and Dragonfly may reorganize groups as needed. Generally, though, the groups are comprised of cats who work well together. Each know each other's strengths and weaknesses, where they succeed and where they need more support, better than Dragonfly could on her own. They're better suited to spontaneously coordinate to protect each other, and more adaptable as their circumstances change.

One such subgroup is comprised of Sun Skip, Snow, and Horse. These three more or less function as a group of friends looking out for each other. Sun Skip often takes a bit of a leadership role in the group, but in less of an authoritative way and in more of a friend leading her other friends on adventures sort of way. She also tends towards leadership in serious situations.

Word Count: 693 words

[SushiFoxx]

Username: SushiFoxx
Clan: Fallen Rose Kingdom

Quest Number: 1
Response:
Fallen Rose Kingdom works with a monarchy and has several different roles.

You have the Royals:

Queen/King/Royalty
Queen/King/Royalty
Prince(s)/Princess(es)/Royal(s)

The royals are in charge of the rules and overall command within the Kingdom. They oversee all large choices and live within the castle. Royals are aloud to mate whomever they choose, although it is more traditional to mate a cat of a higher social status.

After the royals you have the castle cats:

Servants
Guards
Cleaners
Cooks

Servants personally serve the royals and help them day through night. Guards protect the castle from outside threats and are only allowed to leave their posts when another cat takes their spot. Cleaners ensure the castle is clean and top tier at all times, cleaning the floors, windows, walls, tables, and anything else that may need cleaning. Cooks ensure the royals have safe and balanced meals, they control the kitchen and ensure the royals are never poisoned.

After you have the Kingdom cats who roam the streets:

Witch; The witches are a highly stigmatized group and cats do not trust them. They are usually located at a more secluded part of the Kingdom where fewer cats have to interact with them.
Witch-in-training; A witch in training is separate from the traditional Leaner role due to the fact that when a Leaner takes up the role no cat wants to go near them.
Scout; Scouts watch the Kingdom's boarders and they ensure no threats appear within the boarders. They survey the territory and also relay how active the creatures are outside the walls.
Runner; Runners fetch herbs for Herbalists and ensure the Kingdom is stocked up on all necessary resources.
Hunter; Hunters get the fresh prey for the Kingdom, there are usually several of them active at once to ensure the Kingdom had lots of fresh prey.
Farmer; Farmers usually remain either at the boarders of the Kingdom's walls or just outside them. Farmers harvest wheat, cotton and several other plants to keep the Kingdom thriving.
Sentry: Sentries watch the walls surrounding the main Kingdom and watch any cat entering or leaving the walls to ensure only safety to the cats within.
Cloth maker; Cloth makers construct clothes for the clan using the cotton the Farmers harvest over the season. They sell the clothes as well as other trinkets like jewelry.
Herbalist; Herbalists are the Kingdom's doctors, they use traditional herbs unlike the Witches who use more magical ingredients. The Herbalists are a highly respected group due to how important they are for the Kingdom.
Nursery attendant; Nursery attendants work in the nursery and tend to the mothers with Younglings. They tell stories and ensure the mothers are properly tended to while either recovering or preparing for kitting. They are usually empathetic, kind and patient cats who can deal with the children in a civil manner.
Mother; Mothers are cats who are expecting Younglings or remaining in the Nursery until healed and when their children become Learners.
Learner; Learners are cats who are finally old enough to start taking on roles. They are allowed to choose any role and follow around the cats in that role. Learners are allowed to switch roles until they find one that they enjoy in which the stick with that role.
Youngling: Younglings are cats who live in the nursery with their mothers until they age out into Learners.
Elder: Elders have aged out of their role and give advice to cats and the Royals. They are a highly respected group and are treated with kindness at all times.

Riders; A once famed role of cats who would ride the magnificent beasts that are dragons. You had to be smart and strong to control those creatures. After a fateful accident, the role now lays empty, with no cat daring to go near the dangerous beasts anymore. Rumors are spread about this role and cats whisper about if it ever returned. No cat has actually dared to attempt it yet.

Cast-out; Cast-outs are no longer allowed within the Kingdom and are banished off of the territory due to unforgivable treason.

Word Count: 686

Quest Number:
Response:
Word Count: (If applicable)


Quest Number: 3
Response: Everlasting silence. Distance and avoidance. Pure fear. Mothers ushering their children away. Those were the consequences of being a Witch in the kingdom. Complete solitude.
Although few cats may view this solitude as a blessing, it wore on the soul. No friends, no love, no company. The fear which coated the paths near the witch's hut was almost tangible. A hateful stigma surrounded the job. “Not trustworthy”, “Dangerous”, “Evil”.
Today was no different for Everbound. Silence covered the hut, the only sound was of the scuffling of paws or shifting of supplies. Even the Herbalists avoided the Witch until it was a dire situation. Everbound shifted around the hut, grabbing this and that. In a world of magic and mythological creatures she was always prepared.
Dragon scales here. Phoenix feathers there. Griffon talons within reach. Pixie dust, Unicorn hair, Everbound had it all. While Herbalists focused on the traditional herbs and tools, Witches have always used more of the magical components. For this, they were deemed reactive like their potions, risky like their spells and dangerous like their methods.
Ever since she was young, Everbound had loved the more whimsical side of the kingdom. The side with dragons and fairies, unicorns and phoenixes. For this, she became a witch, despite the stigma surrounding the job. Her parents warned her, but being young and naive she ignored them. Although she doesn’t regret her choice, Everbound wishes that there was more acceptance.
Day through night, the colorful she-cat works to improve the opinion of the job. Going out of her way to help cats, providing services as much as possible and overall being friendly. You’d be surprised by how much this did.
Nothing.
Useless. Useless. Useless. Her efforts were useless. No matter what she did, the opinions of cats never seemed to wane or improve. So she paced till the pads on her paws ached to her bones. Nothing worked. It ached in her heart, how pointless her endeavors were.
The moment she started training to become a witch when she was a mere learner, cats had started to avoid her as though she was ill. Everbound is a patient cat, and the fact that cats decided to overlook that just because of her job hurt. Her hut was organized cleanly, everything in its place. The organization helped Everbound keep busy on the days that were especially hard.
For all of the kingdom's richness and prosperity, they were still especially judgy for things they didn’t understand. Everbound just paused before grabbing a few supplies to create a salve. She had a tendency to run her poor paws into the ground. The salve was an easy creation and she was able to whisk it up quickly.
A knock sounded at the door and Everbound simply frowned before making her way over. It was Nyla, the young Herbalist Learner. Everbound cocked her head at the Learner. “What do you need?” she inquired. Nobody ever visited her at this time, or ever, really.
“Aiyana sent me to get some supplies from you,” the younger cat said bluntly. “She said it would help with my soreness.”
“Oh,” Everbound murmured before grabbing some excess herbs for the Learner. At least somebody felt comfortable with visiting her, she guessed. Aiyana had always been a more positive Herbalist to her job, maybe her efforts were worth it. Everbound never truely knew if the kindness was genuine.
Once she hands the herbs off she watched Nyla leave and felt a pang in her heart. Her efforts might be useless, but just maybe, they would be worth it. She could only hope one day it would pay off..

Word Count: 607

[Ember the Wolf]

Username: Ember the Wolf
Clan: Willowclan

Quest Number: #1
Response:

Clan Hierarchy.

The top-ranked position in the clan. only one cat can hold this title at a time. Typically the leader is barred from having a mate or kits but it is not impossible. They're responsible for the whole clan and must make decisions that benefit the whole, not single cats.

Current Leader;; Tigerstar

The second in command of the clan, There can be 2-5 deputies depending on the size of the clan. Most clans have a "Main deputy" who has the most authority among them. Willowclan typically only has two deputies as their territory can't sustain a large clan. Deputies are tasked to handle day-to-day activities and oversee the patrols and things.

Current Deputies;; Hawkmoth (main) And Springtallow

Medicine cats are responsible for keeping the clan healthy, Their rank would be considered just under deputy in importance. Clans can have as many medicine cats as they wish but typically have 2 to 3. The most senior medicine cat is the one who must decide if a cat may train to be a medicine cat, but they all collectively share and teach if an apprentice is chosen.

Current Medicine cats;; Yarrowtail (senior), Riverpool

Warriors are split depending on what clan they are in, Willowclan has two teams or factions. The High Mesa team, and the Low Mesa team. All warriors are ranked the same, they are all equally important regardless of their talents, when it comes to patrols and hunts, the leader or head of each patrol goes based on seniority and skill. Cats typically stay in their preferred faction, but they are allowed to switch if they want, they do need to speak with both deputies and make sure that both factions have enough members to complete their patrols but otherwise, it's based mostly on preference.
-The High Mesa Team-
The high mesa team patrols and hunts on the upper part of their territory, It not only includes the top of the mesa, it also covers their border with Talonclan and the path to the Moonpools. though the moonpools are neutral territory Willowclan and Talonclan share the responsibility of making sure the path is patrolled and monitored for any outside threats like bobcats or rouges.
- The Lower Mesa Team-
The lower mesa team covers the lower cliffs and Riverland at the bottom end of their territory. Their border extends along the base of the valley and touches the lake. Where the river bends away from the cliffs and heads to feed into the lake is where their territory borders with Marshclan. The lower team contains most of their hunting parties as there is far more prey in the valley where there are more trees and vegetation vs the upper rocky mesa. They also fish in the river and lake often and are mostly skilled swimmers.

Apprentices are at the bottom of the proverbial food chain. They're required to listen and follow the instructions of their mentors. They are tasked with helping the Elders and any queens as well. In addition to training and helping take care of the clan, apprentices all must take one pilgrimage to the Moonpools before they can become a warrior. Apprentices are also encouraged to try patrolling and hunting with both factions so that they can find where they feel they fit in best.

Elders and queens are technically unranked in the clan, but they are well respected and looked after. Elders have the privilege of not being required to patrol or hunt anymore as they have already dedicated their lives to the clan. the more spry elders are always welcome to tag along on patrols or hunts if they want and they have a particular fishing spot that is frequented. Queens and Kits are exempt for obvious reasons.

Word Count: 607 (excluding listed cats)

Quest Number:#3
Response:
The sky began darkening, And fireflies danced through the grass. Tigerstar watched with Hawkmoth as the apprentices jumped around, trying to catch the little bugs. He sighed heavily before resting his head on his paws, His mind weighted heavily by thoughts. They sat in silence for a few moments, Watching as the two she-cats tumbled around, chasing bugs and eachother. Tigerstar looked over at Hawkmoth thoughtfully, as the Russet tom kept a watchful eye on the other two. Tigerstar should have known that Hawkmoth knew he was moody, He had always had razor-sharp intuition. "What's on your mind?" He asked, His eyes never leaving his apprentice as they got near the water. Tigerstar remained silent momentarily before speaking "I've been thinking about Umberstar." He finally said softly. the gentle sound of the lake lapping at the shore almost drowned out his words. He saw in the corner of his eye Hawkmoth flinch, It was a tender topic, The previous leader. Even though her passing was several seasons ago, and more moons than tigerstar could care to count, the grief and guilt still felt fresh and heavy on his heart sometimes, like tonight.

"Anything in particular?" Hawkmoth asked, His eyes darting to Tigerstar if only for a moment. The old tom huffed and flicked his tail lazily. "She used to talk frequently about her legacy, and what she was leaving behind," He said, Hawkmoth nodded slightly, his eyes once again watching over the apprentices. "For the longest time I always thought she was referring solely to her kits, Especially Timberfang" he added, Hawkmoth remained silent, It wasn't often that Tigerstar spoke about Umberstar, and it was before Hawkstar's time. Tigerstar lifted his head to watch the Burningpaw and Blossompaw. The two she-cats were investigating an old log that had washed up on shore. He purred softly in amazement and then looked at Hawkmoth again. "You remind me of her, Frequently" He added, Hawkmoth's eyes widened in surprise as he turned to meet Tigerstar's gaze. Tigerstar purred softly in amusement "She named you" He added, turning to look up at the sky, Where stars had begun to speckle the sky "I speak to her often in my dreams, although im not always sure they real" He paused for a moment and felt Hawkmoth creep closer, his fur brushing Tigerstar's "What do you mean she named me?" he asked softly, sounding like he did a long time ago when he had just been newly apprenticed. Tigerstar purred in amusement and curled his tail around him before continuing to speak. "I had been troubled for weeks, About the floods. I wasn't sleeping." He heard Hawkmoth huff in irritation but kept speaking " I begged Yellowtail to accompany me to the Moonpools, So I could seek clarity, and guidance" His eyes were still open, but in his mind, he could still clearly see the pools, Dripping stone, Crystal clear water, the white light of a nearly full moon. Hawkmoth nudged him softly encouraging him to keep speaking.

"I was expecting my mother, or perhaps another cat. But Umberstar alone appeared to me that night." He felt his heart pang sharply "We spoke a great deal, And I expressed my distress to her, about many things" He felt Hawkmoth press closer, reassuringly and he leaned into the tomcat gently in response "I wished I could have spent more time with her, And I wish i would have asked for the reassurance that I seek about her death." he paused "She asked about you," Hawkmoth perked up in surprise, "she said through you, I would understand where her legacy would lie. Like a moth to a flame." He could sense Hawkmoth's confusion. He nudged the tom and then stood stretching before beginning to walk, The two apprentices had gained some distance and he figured they had better catch up. Hawkmoth followed suit, sticking to Tigerstars side. "I don't understand though, What about her legacy have to do with me?" Hawkmoth asked softly. Tigerstar sighed "I didn't understand for the longest time. I watched you grow, And I watched you easily step into your role as Deputy, And it wasn't until recently that I understood her." He paused, looking out across the water "Her legacy was me, Someone she trained and rilled knowledge into. Someone who was quick thinking and selfless" Hawkmoth paused next to him, his ears flattened in confusion "And My legacy is you, Somone who I've trained and raised in her image," He said looking at his former apprentice affectionately. Hawkmoth pondered for a moment and Tigerstar could tell he was trying to work everything together. Tigerstar Nudged him and they continued walking. "You are the flame, My legacy, What im leaving behind. I could;t have asked for anything better" He said thinking about Umberstar's last words to him. "You are my legacy" Hawkmoth sighed softly and Tigerstar purred reassuringly. "I have faith in you, And I believe that I have taught you everything I can." He stopped, and Hawkmoth stopped and stood next to him. As they stood Tigerstar's attention was drawn the the storm on the horizon, The scent of rain was strong in the air. "I won't be long for this world Hawkmoth." He said resolutely, although he wasn't sure why. "The stormy season is upon us, and I'm going to rely on you to do what's right for the clan" He added

Laster the night, As Tigerstar lay in his den he sighed softly, The scent of Umberstar lingered in his nose and he almost thought he felt her pelt brush his, IT had taken him nearly all of his nine lives, but he finally understood what she meant, Why she used to always talk about her legacy. Because now, as he watched his legacy, his living reminder of everything he stood for in Hawkmoth, He knew that he had done right, and honored her the way she wanted him to. For the first time since Umberstar's death, The guilt he had felt, about not living up to her expectations, About not being able to save her, Finally felt like it lifted, And for the first time in many moons, Tigerstar slept, without any haunting dreams.

Word Count: 1,035

[EchoIre]

Username: EchoIre
Clan: LakeClan

Quest Number: 1
Response:
Briar tipped her head to the side, brows furrowed in thought. "Our hierarchy?" She echoed. The brown molly shook her head. "I dunno. We aren't a very structured group, I'm not sure we really have one? Although- maybe we do?" She shrugged. "Sit down with me, I'll try to explain."

"So our leader, Damir, well- leads us? He makes all of the important decisions, helps break up fights, that sort of thing. He also has a really strong connection with StarClan! I guess most of us kinda do, but he talks to a lot of StarClan at once. My StarClan mentor, Smokesong, tells me that when we're a real clan Damir with get nine lives and a leader name. I don't really think he wants that, though. Smokesong also says that Damir will do ceremonies, but I'm not really sure what he means by that? He said warrior and apprentice ceremonies, but we're all already warriors and StarClan told us which cat would be training the apprentices." Briar shrugged. "I guess it's another thing for when we're a 'real clan'."

"That seems pretty simple I guess, but it's after that where it gets confusing! We have a bunch more ranks, and a few I would definitely put above others in terms of authority, but it's hard to say where they fall in line with each other. I suppose, technically, the next highest rank would be the deputy, Dinara."

"StarClan appointed Dinara as Damir's deputy when he founded LakeClan. Deputies are technically the second-in-command. She helps organize patrols and solve fights too. I'm not really sure what makes her different from Damir, other than she's just not the leader? Smokesong said that it'll be more clear the longer we go on, though. It's nice to have her for when Damir's not around at least."

"Then there's the Spiritspeaker. Smokesong says it's not a traditional clan role, but Damir and some others think it's really important. Basically, our Spiritspeaker, Frost, can talk to the spirits and fae in the forest. They'll be able to tell when they're upset, when they're playing a trick, and they know all the customs for if one comes to visit the clan! Most of the time Frost just acts like a regular warrior - or, a kinda weird one honestly - but if something's going on with the fae or spirits then they can override Damir if they need to! Some cats listen to Frost more than they listen to Dinara, which is what makes it so confusing."

"I would say the healers are next! We have three right now - or, two and a half? Lev and Willow are fully-trained healers, while Nitya is still learning from them. They specialize in herbs, and spend a bunch of time gathering, drying, and storing herbs to help the clan. They also know how to help with things like broken bones, not just normal cuts and colds! They don't have the same kind of authority as Damir, Dinara, or Frost, but most other cats will listen if they have something to say. I think it's because they're so knowledgeable and useful that we all just want to help them if we can, plus nobody wants to upset the cat that could save your life. They definitely aren't a leadership role though."

"And then there's me, the bard!" Briar puffed her chest out. "StarClan says the stories of our ancestors are important to helping us perfect LakeClan, so that's where I come in. Smokesong and a few others teach me the stories of the Old Clan to help us learn about our ancestors and how to be a clan. I tell the clan a story or two every night, and I can use what StarClan tells me to help guide the others if they need it. I also know a bunch of stories about cats that aren't from the clan, and a whole bunch else! We can learn from the past, and it's important that we don't forget those who came before use. Plus, fables about brave heroes always help to lift spirits! When I'm not learning from Smokesong I act as a normal warrior, hunting and patrolling and all that."

"We have another non-traditional rank too: rune-makers. Or, well, rune-maker. A moon or so ago, this family of rogues showed up and asked to join the clan. One of their cats, Maple, knows how to make runes that actually have magic in them! She was just a regular warrior for a while, but she talked to Damir about it and he made the rune-maker role for her. Usually she's looking for materials to make runes or carving them near camp. She's made some to help protect the camp, and she's working on some better ones now! She also makes runes to help out the warriors if they're nice, stuff that helps them see or smell better. Apparently she also trades with the merchants outside the territory, and she'll bring back prey and trinkets from them. She also hunts and patrols sometimes, but she usually won't if Dinara asks. It's gonna cause a big fight one of these days." Briar sighed.

"Most of the others are warriors. Smokesong says that's the role most cats would take up in the Old Clan, so I guess it makes sense. They're the cats that hunt and patrol most often, and they'll also help fix up the camp too! Patching up dens, making sure the winter camp stays clear, fixing the bramble wall, stuff like that. We don't really get into too many fights, so it feels a bit weird to call them warriors. Damir's talking about splitting them up based on what they're good at, things like builders and scouts and such, but it also feels kinda weird to have one of all these new ranks instead of a bunch of warriors. I'm not sure it's a good idea to split everybody up like that, especially if StarClan doesn't want us to." Briar glanced to the sky and then shrugged. "What would we call the warrior den? Would we make a bunch more? It's weird, but we'll just have to see. At the end of the day, we would all hunt and fight when we needed to."

"We also have apprentices. I think they're only considered not as high-ranking as warriors because they're children, though? They're still learning too, so they aren't usually allowed to go on patrols by themselves or make important decisions. It changes as an apprentice grows, though, just like any other kid. Sometimes it feels like we're all raising the apprentices together. It was a bit awkward at first, but I kinda like it. It feels like I have a bunch of little sisters! I'm really excited to get my own apprentice, even if it will probably be a while. Maybe one of Vorona's kits will want to be a bard!!"

"Oh! Speaking of, I guess we technically have roles for kits and queens? The kits are just kits though, so it feels strange to really say it's a role. We don't let them out of camp by themselves because the forest is dangerous, but sometimes Vorona will take them outside of the camp walls to explore a bit. They'll be made into apprentices when they're older."

"Vorona is the clan's only queen right now, but she's still a warrior. She went on patrols while she was pregnant if she wanted to, and sometimes does now that her kits are older. She never gets put on patrol like the others though, it's all up to her. I wouldn't say being a queen really changes your place in the hierarchy, you still have whatever role you did before. Though, we made sure that she ate first while she was pregnant. We do the same for the kits now that they're weaned, so I guess that puts them above everyone else in terms of food? That's how my last group's hierarchy was: the leader, queens, and kits ate first. Damir honestly eats last most of the time though, and there isn't a real eating order in LakeClan besides making sure the queens and kits eat. Oh, and the elders."

"Elder is a new role in LakeClan. Technically it always existed, because the Old Clan had elders so StarClan wanted us to as well, but we didn't have any cats actually filling the role until Maple's group showed up. Now we have two! Elders in LakeClan are too old to patrol or hunt ad much, and like queens aren't put on patrol by Dinara or Damir. They're welcome to tag along if they want to, and I've seen them helping Maple with her runes or the healers with herbs. They also watch kits, help patch up dens if they can, and talk to me about stories from the past! There's nothing they're really required to do, and we try to make sure to feed them after Vorona and the kits if food is scarce. I don't really know where I'd rank them on the clan's hierarchy though? They can't do the same things like the leader, deputy, and starspeaker do, but their voices carry a bit of weight in debates due to their experience. Like I said, LakeClan doesn't care much for hierarchies. There are some cats who lead us, but they hunt and patrol like anybody else. Nobody is really above any other cat, we're all just... working together. It's really nice, actually."
Word Count: 1,579 words


Quest Number: 3
Response:
Damir's scowl shifted into a look of shock and confusion. He stared hard at the molly for a moment, then looked away. "I..." He started to speak, then trailed off. He brought his gaze back to meet the molly's, back straight and shoulders set in a way that seemed practiced. His face was tense and guarded.

"I want my legacy to be peace and freedom. I want my family to be safe. I want my... my clan to be able to be whatever and whoever they want. So many of the others worry so much about what StarClan says just because they think these old clan cats are important. But they're not." His gaze became harder for a moment, almost as if he was watching for a reaction from Hana. He continued on with little pause.

"The cats of BorealClan are dead or dying, and their clan fell apart for a reason. I founded LakeClan because I wanted my family to be safe, not because StarClan told me to. I can see that there's things about BorealClan - the Old Clan - that worked, but I know firsthand that there's a lot that didn't."

"After I die, I want LakeClan to feel free from StarClan's expectations. I want to have convinced the dead of BorealClan to understand or leave us alone. I want my clan to know that even if they disperse or become exactly like BorealClan, it will be their choice, and that I even if I wouldn't agree with their choice I would have supported them."
Word Count: 256 words

[dimi.]

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Username: dimi.
Clan: Heart of Decay

Quest Number: #1
Response: The Heart of Decay doesn't have an official hierarchy. In fact, Envy despises the idea of one role being viewed as more valuable than another. Every role in the clan exists for a reason, and serves their own, equally important purpose. While some of the clan would argue this is not the case, they wouldn't be caught arguing about it front of Envy, that's for sure. She views everyone and everything as equal, no matter how they treat her or her clan.

The first role within the Heart of Decay is the leader, which is currently Envy. While in most clans, the leader simply oversees operations, the leader is expected to participate in the day to day tasks of all ranks. Whether that be helping the rogues track down a potential threat to scavenging for herbs for the Medics, the leader is looked to for guidance and aid in all fronts. This is why, upon becoming leader, they are blessed with the Spirit of Leadership -- something that enhances their most prominent feat and grants them extra energy for the additional workload they will be taking on. This allows them to be as efficient when they were just one rank, despite taking on a larger workload.

Right below the leader is the Deputy, who is currently Envy's lover, Onyx. The deputy is responsible for delegating the tasks for each rank everyday. This could be as simple as sending the rogues out on a border patrol or telling the prophets to analyze a dream a fellow clanmate had. Everyone turns to the deputy upon the sunrise to figure out how their days will go. The deputy is the one who acts more so like a traditional clan leader, overseeing each task and making sure they are completed before sundown. Whenever a clan also needs to speak with the Heart of Decay, the deputy is responsible for making these diplomatic meetings happen, and making sure they are not a ploy.

As far as the medics go, Envy elected to divide the Medic rank into separate divisions; offensive and defensive.

The offensive medic is the one who will accompany the cats in battle, and tend to injuries on the field then and there. Currently, this position belongs to Avia. They are trained in both the art of medicine and combat, and because of their vital role in battles, are some of the strongest cats the Heart of Decay has to offer. They have to make sure to keep themselves alive and healthy amidst turmoil to tend to the injuries of others. The offensive medic's responsibilities mostly comprise of making sure injuries don't get infected, and keeping them patched until she can safely return them to the camp, where the defensive medic comes in.

The defensive medic is the one who tends to the day-to-day injuries of the clan, prescribing things to ease pain and administering antidotes for poisons. This responsibility falls to Gale currently. They are responsible for dealing with more long-term injuries that require things like extensive rest, physical therapy, among other things. They usually stay in the camp even during battle, and tend to those that the offensive medic brings back to the clan after a battle. They are purely trained in the ways of medicine, and are usually remarkable in helping cats recover both mentally and physically. These cats need to be empathetic, know medicine inside and out, and be compassionate. A lot of thought goes into appointing the defensive medic, and it is considered an honor to be selected.

After the medics, there are the prophets. Most traditional clans give the prophecy responsibilities to their medicine cats, but Envy viewed this as far too draining. When cats do experience prophecies, or strong dreams, they are often physically effected for days on end. Envy couldn't risk this happening to her medicine cat, and as such, made a role specifically for prophets. These cats are responsible for analyzing all signs sent by Starclan, or even more darker sources, as well as dreams that cats are concerned about. Similar to traditional clan cats, they will visit the Moonpool for aid, though not as commonly; only if they need more clarification on a prophecy they've been seeing. These prophets warn the clan of danger, and analyze how the next several moons are anticipated to go. They have saved the Heart of Decay from hurt plenty of times. This responsibility falls to Mani and Dawn, currently.

The next rank, the infiltrator, will only ever belong to one cat -- that being Moon. She is immortal, and stuck at apprentice age, thus the only one fitting of this position. Her job is to act as a spy for clans that Envy views as suspicious. She gathers intel on the clan, and sees if any of their movements involve harming the Heart of Decay. While the Heart of Decay is a clan that tries to remain neutral, some do not like the Heart of Decay's generosity, and remain wary of it, believing it not to be true. Moon is rarely sent out on missions, though when she is, she is often gone for moons at a time. She gets close to cats of other clans, has them expose their secrets, and stores them as potential leverage in the future should she need them. Her role is somewhat despicable, and cats of the Heart of Decay often question it is necessity, but truthfully it has saved the Heart of Decay from a few ambushes.

Scavengers are the next rank, which are responsible for hunting for both prey and scavenging for herbs, and other resources the clan may be able to utilize. This rank is better for cats who aren't as physically strong, and have a better sense of smell. These cats are taught to be resourceful, and kind-hearted when coming across cats that they are not familiar with. This allows them to be good de-escalators, and most of the time, avoid combat. The scavengers are also viewed as the best tracker cats, often being sent after foreign smells to track down the cats that come with them, and send a rogue out afterwards to greet them, in case they are violent.

After scavengers are the rogues. The rogues are the ones trained purely for battle, and are responsible for the daily border patrols, dealing with any type of predator they come across, and being physical muscle for more serious endeavors if needed. These rogues tend to be more serious, fierce, and eager to deal with things physically, which isn't Envy's favorite but she does appreciate them when strength is needed. When there isn't active trouble, they help the scavengers with their more "boring" duties.

Then, for the young cats, are the ranks of Novices and Youths. Novices are cats that are currently undergoing training. Unlike traditional clans, cats don't train for just one thing. They train for all ranks, and get to decide which one they are most comfortable with. If a mentor believes they fit better elsewhere, they may ease into switching them to train for that rank instead. This makes it so cats go for the rank they are most suited for and comfortable with. Envy doesn't want clan life to feel like a chore, instead a bunch of endeavors one are passionate about. If a cat truly wants to stick to one rank, they will also encourage that -- each cat has different needs and desires after all.

Youths are not expected to do anything. The rogues as a whole care for the youths when they are not out and about. These are kits that have not yet begun their training as novices, and are purely expected to just survive in the camp. A lot of times, other cats will prank the kits by telling them extravagant tales and just generally terrorize them. It's something Envy is working to fix, but admits is slightly entertaining.

Then, finally, the Ancients. These are cats that are retired from all duties, and simply expected to live out the rest of their days in peace. This rank isn't exclusive to age. It can be related to injury, a disability, or age. Most cats that reach this rank are viewed to have served their time, and Envy would like them to rest for the remainder of their days. The Ancients are responsible for making sure the Youths and Novices are in bed at appropriate times, by telling them tales from their own youth and dragging them around if need be. Ancients, rather than being viewed as senile, are actually respected for their past services to the clan.

Within the Heart of Decay, all ranks are viewed as equal. Without all of them, the Heart of Decay would function much differently and more confusingly. This is a system that, so far, as worked for Envy's clan.

[1,473 words]

-----
Username: dimi.
Clan: Heart of Decay

Quest Number: #2
Response:


A series of stones resting by the clan's flourishing river. Positioned to have the perfect amount of sun midday without being scorching.

[so annoyed i clicked the wrong canvas size, oops]
-----
Username: dimi.
Clan: Heart of Decay

Quest Number: #3
Response:
"It's not fair to give out things for free." A scornful tom would growl. Before him stood Envy, an apprentice sized ebony molly with stellar green and orange eyes. They gazed at the tom hatefully, her maw opening in an attempt to retaliate before he spat. "Don't you dare utter another word!"

Silence.

"Look, Envy, I know it doesn't seem fair. But those cats out there, fighting, dying, they're doing it for glory too. If they go out in a battle here, they will be remembered. It's better than them dying of starvation elsewhere." The tom stated without remorse. This angered Envy.

-----

Her father's selfishness is exactly what drove Envy to form the Heart of Decay. She believes that every cat, regardless of disability, strength, or size, should have an equal chance at life. The legacy she wants to leave behind is for others to be more accepting of the cats they come across. She wants the current cats of the clan and the next generation to be more open, and allow cats they may not have originally allowed into their hearts. It seems tacky, but Envy refuses to be anything like her father. Cats shouldn't have to fight for their keep unless it is absolutely necessary. Envy's father had a desire for bloodshed, while Envy has a desire to provide sanctuary for both the weak and the strong.

She wants to be remembered for being a safe haven for cats. She doesn't want to be praised for it -- rather, she wants the next cat who becomes leader to take the torch, and pass these beliefs down. Another thing Envy wants to leave behind is that no rank is better than the next. A leader and a rogue are just as valuable in their own ways, and serve different purposes to the clan. Without any of them, the Heart of Decay would crumble. Equality is the main thing that Envy wants to leave behind -- no one should struggle to maintain themselves if a group can come together to maintain all.

Another piece of her that she would like to leave behind is the ability to change. Envy originated from one of the most violent rogue clans there was -- a fighting ring where cats would die over promises of mere scraps of food and shelter. She was originally going to lead this ring after her father, but grew to realize it was corrupt -- and selfish. She, being the daughter of a selfish, blood-hungry tom, got the courage to become the leader of the fighting ring, only to dismantle it. She wants cats of the Heart of Decay to carry on her thought that anyone can change. Even someone with the most horrific background, if given the right resources and time, can change and become better than their past self.

Finally, the legacy for her own role. Envy has always thought that the leader of the clan should be active in all facets, and whoever takes on her role should do the same. The leader shouldn't just be barking orders -- they should be at the front of those orders. Helping catch the prey, marking the borders, and attending any necessary diplomatic meetings. This is why Envy asked the stars to bestow upon them not nine lives, but instead the ability to have more stamina and strength.
[554 words].

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[néktar]

Username: nektar
Clan: pondclan

QUEST #1 [ 800 ]


the clan
leader - max 1; bugstar
this cat is the highest ranked in the clan, a cat with the heart and soul of pondclan. the members look to this cat for guidance and wisdom, they oversee daily operations and run their clan accordingly. the leader's word is law, this power often making those with a weak spirit succumb to immoral actions.



deputy - max 1; mothfur
second in command, this cat puts into motion the word of the leader as well as being the leader's strongest advisor next to senior cats of the clan. taking over operations if the leader becomes ill or too injured to serve, they also tend to smaller duties on their own, sending out patrols as they see fit for the clan.



shaman - max 1; fogmeadow / next in line: newmoon
this cat is usually appointed by the pervious shaman if there was a shaman during their time. this cat has an exceptional grasp on medicine as well as the path of the stars, most of them have or gain an ability during their anointment. they provide guidance for any cat that requests and blesses ceremonies such as the entwining ceremony.

the previous shaman can see a certain sign on the next shaman's face when either their time is running thin, or the next shaman is ready. their power is minimal but usually extremely helpful to the clan, a few of these include plant growth to a small degree, prophetic dreams, pain mirroring, dream fasting, enhanced hearing/feeling, and healing paws. they also experience slower aging, many shaman's living upwards of 280 moons.



healers - max 3; newmoon, morningdew
these cats are highly skilled in herbal treatments and care of diseased or injured cats, as well as a number of other ailments. they are in direct contact with the ancestors and walking the path of the stars. they journey to the cave of souls every full moon or whenever they are called to it. the cave of souls is located in the mountains that run along the border of ponclan, blocking them from the oceans beyond. the path to the cave has been worn down by generations of healers and shamans making their way to speak with their ancestors.



guards; due to pondclan being right along the bank of the moss pools, a large body of water with the thick roots of Mother Tree that have weaved themselves along the surface, creating several individual pools. These pools contain allegators and other carnivorous animals, thus in pondclan's long residence they have appointed cats to guard the parameter of camp. These cats are notably the strongest and most skilled of fighters, creating the first wall of camp essentially, though some are nimble and fast for quick reconnaissance. Often two guards are posted just outside of the entrance while two others survey the parameters.



hunters; these cats are often the most lively and clever of the clan. using their skills and knowledge to provide food for their clan-mates. due to pondclan's large territory these cats tend to spread out their patrols to sun-up, sun-high, and sun-down. Hunting in a number of different areas, switching hunting spots every few days for replenishment. depending on the number of cats in a patrol, either a warrior or guard will go with them in order to grantee every member's safe return, as well as being a pack mule for any excess prey the hunters catch.



apprentices; these younger cats are the future of the clan, becoming apprentices once they turn 6 moons of age. they meet with the leader and deputy in private to discuss their skills and strengths, then the leader will place them with the most skilled of cats in that role. they train under their mentors for 6+ moons due to some skills taking longer to develop than others. once all learned knowledge has been assessed they will receive their full "warrior" name by the leader with some suggestion from their mentor.



queens; night of no stars, vixenfleck
these are cats that are expecting or have recently given birth to a litter of kits. some are queens permanently due to their ability to care for those younger. some cats move into the nursery permanently due to their ability to care for recovering queens as well as offering to take over kit-sitting.



kits; these are the fresh faces of the clan, young ones either clan born or adopted into the clan. they play and romp in the sandy hollow of the nursery or chase tails and moss-balls in the clearing, under close watch.



elders; cats that are too old to serve the clan or do not have the ability to are given this role. they keep the clan on their toes with stories of old and a task list as long as comet's tail.

QUEST #2 elder’s paradise: the meadow behind camp ft. goosebelly, flamethorn, & milkthistle


QUEST #3 [ 1,062 ]

it was the beginning of the rainy season for the clan and as the ominous clouds spilled over the mountain peaks, the cats grew more and more restless - something was happening, but what?

the sun-high patrols were just coming back from their duties. some carried prey while others carried news for bugstar and mothfur, seeking out their elite clan-mates two of them bounded up to the leader's den that resided within Mother Tree. just as they were about to clear their throats and enter, a furious hiss came from within the den. the low voice of mothfur pooled out of the mossy covered entrance, the wind picking up as they listened intently. "how dare you, how DARE YOU - sit there with that look on your face, did you think the ancestors would turn a blind eye to this cruelty, this blasphemy?!" the white tom's voice cracked. "tigermoth was a loyal and beloved warrior. you had no right to betray her trust like that, all because she wouldn't become your mate." the deputy's jaws snapped shut with a click.

the large tom said nothing more but turned his back to his leader, his broad shoulders pushing through the heavy moss. his red eyes meeting with two of his senior clan-mates that had been standing outside listening to him, his large ears twitched with discomfort wishing his clanmates had not heard the news like this. they didn't say a word as the two cats dipped their heads respectfully towards mothfur. understanding that this was not to be shared with the rest of the clan until he personally called a meeting. the large white tom moved towards the boulder's ledge, over many moons Mother Tree's long roots have enveloped this great stone, holding it in place for the leaders to hold many a meeting from its mantle. just as he had taken his place above, bellow the boulder resided the medicine den, fogmeadow emerged quietly from within tilting her ear up awaiting mothfur's call.

gazing around at the clearing, more and more cat's eyes turning to him, their faces ranging from confused to unnerved. newmoon and morningdew were giggling walking from the nursery, both of them coming to an abrupt stop as they saw the tom sitting atop the boulder, their eyes spoke volumes and they too sat down and neatly wrapped their tails around their paws. everyone was holding their breath, their heartbeats resonating with one another, not another word was spoken. mothfur opened his maw, "honored cats of pondclan. i, mothfur, your loyal deputy, call forth a clan meeting." he paused letting his voice ring throughout the clearing, the guards from outside the entrance pushed their way in to hear him.

the tom's eyes swept over the clan, looking to every cat's face. "i know it might be a bit confusing for me to be calling a meeting but i would like to share something with you all, because unlike some i do not wish to hide anything from you. you deserve to know what happens with his clan no matter what. you all have fought for it, cared for it, and nurtured through the seasons with blood and tears. i wish to be completely transparent with you, as i plan to be when it is my turn to lead you." the wind picked up as he spoke, tossing his thick fur about him and giving him a dramatic look as he spoke the next few words. "bugstar has committed an atrocity and lied to you all for moons.. he is the one who murdered tigermoth!"

gasps and yowls of dismay came from the throng of cats bellow the boulder. wild eyes and claws unsheathed, calls for evidence and proof were rightfully requested, with these remarks mothfur turned his attention to fogmeadow who sat quietly until now. the blind molly got to her paws and stepped forward into the crowd, her voice was calm but nipped coldly at their ears as she spoke. "i have spoken with the ancestors, they never received tigermoth as they expected to seasons ago.. her soul has remained her with us, she's been guarding the cave of souls and has become a vengeful ghostly apparition which takes form of a tiger. newmoon was able to communicate with the part of tigermoth that remained sane. she told her it was bugstar who murdered her and not one of the barn-cats as this coward has led us to believe. i understand that some of you may be skeptical of this but the face of a killer cannot be hidden forever." she hissed, claws tearing into the loose earth beneath them. bugstar hadn't emerged to speak against the two cats who accused him.

the cats in the clearing began to scream for their leader to show his face, demanding him tell them that the deputy and shaman were making up a queen's tale to scare them. they fell silent as the long-furred tom emerged from the den, his head low and his paws shaking with each step. raising his head allowing his hair to fall to the side and revealed one of his eyes. scouring the sea of twitching whiskers and lashing tails bellow him, he couldn't hold up the facade anymore. a small smirk appearing on his maw as he spoke, "i cannot lie any longer. yes, it was me who took the life of your beloved deputy." his tone was vile and taunting.

before anyone could make another move at this statement mothfur got to his paws, overshadowing bugstar, "first and foremost i want to apologies to you, devoted cats of this clan, for allowing this snake to lie among us for so long. from this moment on i will do my utmost to uphold our values and strengthen our bonds so that something such as this will never happen again! i promise to cleanse this foul taste from our maws and to protect each and every one of you until my last breath. for i will gladly lay my lives down before any of you lay yours for mine! i will not accept this as a part of our clan's history, and i refuse to let it define us." he stood tall with his chin held high and his ears tall and alert, mothfur's gaze was unwavering as he let his words sink into the soil of camp.

[elliott.]

Username: elliott.
Clan: the hawthorns.

Quest Number: one
Response:
The Hawthorns has a strict hierarchy, with each rank having their own rules and their own duties.

First up, as usual, is a leader, or two. The leader is usually only one cat, although few leaders decide to bring their mates along to rule next to them. That decision is up to the leader and their partner, as sometimes the latter would prefer to keep their former duties or the former would prefer to lead alone. The leader is in charge of all executive decisions within the group, handling domestic issues and forming new longs along with the help of the council. Usually, on normal days, the leader will take reports from scouts about each branch of the territory, and sometimes will even spend some time among the scout camps to see how everything is running. Leaders are elected by the council, although it is usually a member of the original royal bloodline, similar to kings and queens in a monarchy. Right now, the leader is Asphodeldance, the grandson of the founders of the Hawthorns.

Beneath the leader, but only by a little bit, is the council. The council is made up of the most respected cats in the group, the ones that are trusted to make the decisions. They usually help "assimilate" newcomers to Hawthorns culture, along with either pass or deny new laws from the leader. They work as the background of the leadership team, helping with everything having to do with leading and running the group while living in the shadows. This position is currently occupied by Poppyhowl and Tawnyhound.

There are three healers in the group, total. These cats are extremely skilled in healing, memorizing each herb that grows within each biome on the island and what they all can do. They are close-knit, because they have to be. This group of cats works the closest out of any of the other ranks, sharing their knowledge and working smoothly to make sure every biome of the island is covered by a cat at all times. The job is extremely hands-on, with cats having to sometimes travel across the entire island in order to heal an illness. They are highly respected due to the intensity of their job and all of the responsibilities it comes with. A couple of the healers are even skilled in gardening, learning how to plant herbs and grow them to keep them plentiful. The Hawthorns' current healers are Whimsycurl, Orchidshriek and Fuzzypaw.

Now, we move into the normal ranks!

Each normal rank has a 'head.' This cat is in charge of all of the cats in the rank and get high respect from all of the cats around them. They are also normally in charge of sending out patrols or overseeing training. Each rank has about two or three heads so that one cat doesn't have to be stretched out between all four biomes. Each head rank is proficient in every biome's way of that skill. Head hunters know how to bring down large birds in the savannah and grasslands, but can also ward out small animals from the dense foliage of the rainforest. Head fighters can blend and use the rainforest to their advantage while also keep their footing in the sometimes icy climate of the taiga. Head scouts know their way through each and every biome, including hiding spots and hidden caves and caverns. Each one of these cats are the best of the best and are treated as such.

First up is fighters. Their rank names exactly what they do. This rank can be made up of brutes or simple mischief makers, the slow and heavy or the light and fast. These are the first cats to rush into battle, the first cats be up in the morning and the last cats to go to sleep at night. They are taught extensive offensive and defensive moves, majoring in the moves for their biomes but still learning for the other biomes as well, just in case. During normal life, they take turns patrolling the outskirts of their territory, along with guarding the camp and each den inside of it. They also accompany scouts when the scouts need to travel to other biomes or simply when they are going on scouting trips.

Hunters are the second of the normal ranks, on the same level as the fighters. They are in charge of feeding entire camps. Hunters in a few of the biomes, like savannah or rainforest, will sometimes work together in large groups to take down larger prey, especially due to the lack of smaller prey in those biomes. They are skilled in multiple different ways of hunting, such as taking down large birds or speeding after faster animals for them. They know a few defensive move in case of sudden danger, but their job is mostly just: get prey.

Last, but not least, are scouts. Scouts are in charge of warning the fighters and camps of any disputes or dangers coming along the biome borders. Each biome has their own designated scouts, who spend most time at the scouting camps near the center of the island. Scouts are usually the fastest and sneakiest cats that come into the group, with thinner bodies and longer legs. The main duties of scouts are either patrolling or running to other biomes to communicate with cats there. They are both protectors and messengers. Scouts grow up being taught both hunting and fighting, so that they can be first line of defense and also feed themselves at the scout camps.

The Hawthorns have normal ranks, like queens, kits and elders, which are the same as normal. Cats that aren't designated a rank (whether it be because they don't fit or because they had to retire early in their years) are usually associated underneath the rank of queen, so that they can help care for the young in the group and take care of inside-camp tasks, like assisting with training or rebuilding dens slash nests.
Word Count: 1000 exact!

Quest Number: three
Response:
Poppyhowl has never wanted to be anything but great. A serial perfectionist with anger issues, she cannot stand for things to be out of order, and that includes herself and her family. Marrying the leader of a strictly-ran and solitary group had never been in her plans, but she would never pass it up for anything. Becoming the queen of all of the cats beneath her immediately became her goal, and she wouldn't give that up for anyone.

Not even her own husband.

With her husband out of her way, she was free to make the group whatever she wanted. She added the rank of council, and she got stricter. She raised her kits herself, molding them into perfect representations of her and her beliefs. They grew up just the way she needed them to be, carrying along her way of running things, and she couldn't have been more proud if she tried.

She knows that, shall death come, she shall be able to welcome it with ease, knowing that her kits will carry on her legacy and her way of ruling.

Word Count: 183

[Embergleam]

Username: Embergleam
Clan: In The Wake Of Giants

Quest Number: #1
Response:
While the cats of the Wake will never call themselves traditionalists, their hierarchy does look at least vaguely traditional to outsiders.

Take Ivystar, for instance. As the -star affix in her name might indicate, she is the clan's leader, and has the final say on most things that occur in the Wake. Events that risk damaging inter-clan relationships must be run by her, and if they meet with her disapproval, they're typically axed in short order. She likewise has a paw in assigning patrols, organizing hunts, and ensuring their home territory remains as productive as possible. As hers is the 'public face' of the clan, Ivystar is often obliged to travel to other clans alongside her mediator clanmates to smooth over border disputes and the like. While it's perhaps her least favorite task, Ivystar is likewise in charge of bestowing warrior names upon newly-minted adults upon completion of their apprenticeship.

(Her distaste for the role has led to the Wake saying, "A name is a gift, and can be rejected or replaced just like any other." Needless to say, more than one Wakeborn cat has renamed themselves upon receiving an ill-fitting name.)

Duskbloom's position as second-in-command- 'deputy', as other clans might call it- is likewise fairly by-the-book. She acts as Ivystar's right paw, extending her reach when the clan's leader can't be physically present. Perhaps more importantly, Duskbloom keeps a weather eye on the clan itself. It's her solemn duty to know precisely where, when, and how to best deploy every clan member, a task at which she excels. The only great departure from the norm is where apprentices are concerned: assigning kits to mentors typically falls under Duskbloom's purview as well, though this is more a matter of practicality than one of formality. After all, Duskbloom knows just about everything that happens in the Wake. Who better to pair up incoming apprentices with the cats who will mold them into warriors, healers, and mediators of the Wake?

It's all the ranks below those where the Wake breaks with tradition.

Medicine cats are the first and perhaps most egregious example. For starters, the Wake differentiates between healers and seers. The former are tasked with mending the physical injuries of the clan, while the latter deal with spiritual matters. No single cat is expected to do both. (...some do, of course, though most choose to specialize in one or the other.) This split is intended to let cats specialize. Cloverpatch, for example, is a skilled healer with a long lifetime's worth of experience mending all manner of ills. She also hasn't interpreted a sign from Starclan in living memory. Asking her to divine the movements of stars and the meaning of signs would be the height of foolishness. Leave such things to Whisperwind, who hears omens and portents on every passing breeze.

A similar split occurs with what a more traditional clan might term 'warriors'. Cats who choose to focus entirely on martial prowess still claim the title 'warrior', and focus most of their time on honing their skills. Those who prefer to keep the clan's larders full, however, opt to call themselves 'hunters'. While they can be (and occasionally are) called upon to defend the clan's borders, their primary goal is always keeping the clan fed. They're under strict orders to retreat should any foe beyond them appear while they're on patrol. Leave the fighting to the warriors, the hunting to the hunters... and the scouting to the scouts, who form the final branch of the Wake's 'armed forces'. Originally a sub-group of warriors, scouts are combat-trained cats who show a particular aptitude for stealth and solo operations. They are entrusted with longer-range missions that require a greater degree of independence and flexibility. Scouts often operate alone for days, or more rarely in pairs, and typically patrol the most distant of the Wake's borders.

While the Wake does its utmost to maintain friendly relations with their neighbors, some degree of conflict is almost inevitable. When disagreements do arise, mediators are the first line of defense. They serve something of a dual purpose in the Wake, solving both inter-Clan and intra-Clan disputes as they arise. Given the sheer remoteness of the Wake's territory, most of their time is spent keeping clanmates away from each others' throats. ...or it will be, at least. For the moment, the Wake is mediator-less, though some of the current youngsters show promise in that field.

Leadership of these specialist groups is a fluid and relatively informal affair. Whoever feels up to the task of leading generally does. Ivystar asks only that she be kept in the loop, an equally-informal process she accomplishes by simply checking in on her clanmates every day. Between her precautionary checks and Duskbloom's knack for knowing the whos, whats, and whys, there hasn't been much need for a formalized chain of command as of yet.

(Ivystar does intend to appoint 'captains' or 'heads' someday, when each branch has enough cats to warrant formal leadership. For now, though, such concerns are far off in the future.)

There are, of course, cats who defy even the flexible structure of the Wake's hierarchy. Duststep is an excellent example. A former kittypet with no hunting, combat, or healing skills to speak of, he nevertheless knows a fantastic amount about history. With that in mind, Ivystar declared him the clan's historian, charged with recording arrivals, departures, births, deaths, mates, and other moments of import in the clan's history. Other oddities with singular talents in unusual fields will likely have roles created specifically for them.

The Wake only recently welcomed its first litter of kits. As such, it has no equivalent to a queen or kit-watcher, but the role's already been 'penciled in'. Someday some cat will want to stay in camp with the kits, tell stories and referree play-fights and remind kits to eat all of their freshkill, not just the tastiest bits. When that cat comes along, the clan will be glad to meet them, and so will their little ones.

Apprenticeship within the Wake operates much as it done in more traditionalist clans. Kits become apprentices at right around six moons of age and are paired with a mentor in an area that matches their interest. They graduate whenever their mentor deems them prepared to take on adult responsibilities. For most youngsters, this shakes out to about twelve moons of training. Healers, seers, and mediators typically require a few more moons' training than their more martial kin, but they grow up someday too.

Kits are kits no matter what clan you belong to. In the Wake, as in other clans, their sole responsibility is to grow up. They're guarded, guided, and spoiled rotten by every other member of the clan.

At its heart the Wake is a deeply meritocratic clan, more interested in what you can do than in the strength of your will or the sharpness of your claws. Leaders lead by virtue of demonstrable skill. When they can no longer do so- or are outclassed by another- they hand their title over with a minimum of fuss. What does a title matter, really, when compared to the safety and wellbeing of an entire clan? Not much at all, if you ask Ivystar, which is precisely why she continues to lead the Wake as a whole.

Word Count: 1,222 words!

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Username: Embergleam
Clan: In The Wake Of Giants

Quest Number: #3
Response:
Legacy is a thorny topic for Whisperwind.

As a younger cat the thought of leaving any form of mark on the world sickened her. And why shouldn't it? She herself was born for the express purpose of carrying on her father's bloody legacy. There was no love behind her conception, no hope to bring something bright or beautiful into the world. Jaggedstar had simply deemed it necessary to sire an heir, and thus an heir he had sired. That heir's thoughts, dreams, opinions, personhood was immaterial. The mad king might have had a daughter, but he wanted a weapon, and worked for many moons to forge Whisperwind into one.

Children ask awkward questions. Weapons merely do as their wielders demand, no matter how disastrous the consequences. The latter appealed to a ruler as paranoid as he was pitiless.

But Jaggedstar's attempt to turn a gentle heart into something monstrous failed. Whisperwind escaped with heart and soul alike intact, choosing to abandon everything she knew rather than turn her own hurt outward. Her escape stirred up the old questions all over again: about identity, about longing, and yes, about legacy. Without her father to act as equal but opposite, who was she? How did she define herself in the absence of her antithesis? She felt confident in claiming the words 'soft' and 'shy', but what beyond that? More important still: who did she want to be, now that she had escaped the fate appointed for her before birth?

For moons Whisperwind had no answer. Then she arrived in the Wake, and the mists over her mind parted by slow degrees.

When Whisperwind had been a battered apprentice recovering in the medicine den, she'd found refuge and meaning in healing. Now, bereft of guidance for the first time in her life, she fell back on that training again. Bit by bit she found herself forging a new legacy, one infinitely kinder and gentler than the one laid out by her father. Her patients would be her legacy, their every moment of health and happiness proof that her life had mattered. It was a small thing, forged from poultices and kind words, but it was hers, and it fit her as nothing else had before.

Then Fogwatch padded into camp with a mewling bundle of orange and black in his mouth, and Whisperwind's world turned on its ear all over again.

Whisperwind had always loved kits, as much for their adorable clumsiness as for the hope they represented. She'd simply... resigned herself to never having any of her own. While she was precious little like her father, there was no guarantee her kits would not somehow inherit the wickedness that lurked in her blood. It was better, she told herself, kinder, to avoid that risk entirely. Yes, it meant denying herself something she longed for, amputating another part of herself for the sake of others, but a choice between self-sacrifice and cursing an innocent kit with a fate worse than death was no choice at all.

But Dorado was entirely unrelated to either herself or Jaggedstar. No creeping shadow lurked in his veins. He was simply a kit who needed a parent. Who better to take him in than Whisperwind?

Parenthood is never easy- if it was, most families wouldn't need two parents!- but Whisperwind found it... refreshingly straightforward. Dorado was a kit with a kit's simple needs and reactions. He wailed his little heart out because he lacked the words to communicate his needs. When he began learning to speak, he demanded food and attention because he simply didn't know better. Yes, he was loud and rude and occasionally startled the fur off of his mother- because that was what kits did. He was not Jaggedstar, lashing out verbally and physically with the sole intent of scaring the resistance out of others. Dorado could be taught. When Whisperwind taught him that others didn't like being yelled at, he stopped yelling. When others refused to share freshkill with a kit who made rude demands, he learned to ask politely, and to take no for an answer.

Dorado grew from a helpless ball of fluff into a bounding blur of kittenish enthusiasm, and Whisperwind made peace with her legacy. This little black and orange blessing would be her mark on the world, one she could be proud of-

Except Dorado himself had other plans.

Dorado loved his mother dearly, but he loved Fogwatch, the cat who had rescued him, only slightly less. 'Foggy', as he called the big colorpoint, played with him when his mother could not, brought back colorful feathers found around the territory, even snuck him bits of choice freshkill saved just for him. Most of all, he listened, patiently answering the thousand questions Dorado came up with every day.

In other words, he was Dorado's father in all but name long before he earned the title officially.

Dorado was all of four moons old when he learned that falling asleep atop Fogwatch's tail or leg meant he'd stay the night in Whisperwind's den. He was five months old when Fogwatch stopped fussing about 'going home' and 'what will the others think'. He became an apprentice- Fogwatch's apprentice, actually- a scant few days after his beloved playmate moved in permanently.

Just as Whisperwind had nixed the very idea of kits, she had initially rejected the prospect of taking a mate. Her personal trauma aside, Dorado and the clan's many injuries kept her terribly busy. Who would tolerate a mate who was never around?

Fogwatch, as it turned out. He'd slid into Whisperwind's heart as quickly and easily as he'd burrowed into Dorado's, and set down roots every bit as deep. His arrival- and their many, many late-night talks- reignited the question that had haunted her from her earliest days. She was a cat grown now, with a mate, a son, a clan, a life the likes of which her younger self could never have dreamed of. Gone was the fearful kit who'd stuck to the shadows and flinched at every loud noise. In her place stood a healer who'd faced the worst the world could offer and come out stronger for it, all without losing the softness, the kindness that made her her.

And thus Whisperwind got her answer. Her legacy is already out there: in the lives she's saved, in the clan she cares for, in the son she loves with all her heart, and in the violence she rejected.

Jaggedstar sought to forge her into a weapon. It's been the work of a lifetime, but Whisperwind has managed to reforge herself into something better.

Word Count: 1,104 words!

[Whovian5EVA]

Username: Whovian5eva
Clan:Cats of the Desert

Quest Number 1
Response:
The Cats of the Desert are divided into subgroups that I also sometimes call sub-clans, with two colonies of cats that live as clans but there is three groupings of cats that don't necessarily live together but make sense to group together anyway!

Leadership in Craterclan
The first of these groups to form was Craterclan, co-founded by Dawnfeather and Snowspark. Dawnfeather's connection with Starclan made her naturally fall into the role of “Teller” and she is tasked with all things relating to Starclan, as well as divining the stargiven parts of cats’ names. Snowspark fell into a more practical role the “Watcher”, managing various aspects of patrols, and the pair co-lead the clan. Since the Cats all across the desert are nomadic, all cats have some medicine knowledge and so it took some time before a cat stepped into a fully medicine focused role. That cat was Blossomheart who became the “Healer” of Craterclan.
So, Craterclan is lead with the three roles of “Teller”, “Watcher”, and “Healer”.
Beyond that, most adult cats live as “Warriors” going on patrols and hunting to feed the clan.
If a cat finds themselves unable to patrol, either by choice or they are physically unable, they can also choose to help out around camp being known as a “Burrower” since Craterclan does live in a burrow.

Leadership in Ridgeclan
Ridgeclan was formed by a single cat, and as a result has a single “Leader” role, the current leader is Crowleap, and he does his best to listen to his clanmates but his hot-headed and stubborn nature can result in him making some final calls, that not everyone agrees with.
Next we have the “Deputy” and the “Medicine Lead”, they have similar levels of authority however Ridgeclan has no current Deputy. The Medicine lead is Honeyseed, and the Medicine Lead is in charge of most Medicine related things like storage of herbs, but the whole clan does their part in gathering and actually healing cats, since the Medicine lead takes on most Starclan related tasks too.
Lastly we have the non-leadership roles, some cats choose to become “Warriors” going on patrols and hunts, but in Ridgeclan a certain cat Dingodango fell into his own new role, “Greenpaw” and his role works very closely with the Medicine lead to cultivate and grow the herbs found all over Ridgeclan territory. He had a natural talent for helping plants grow more, so it only made sense for him to be able to continue.

Early life in the clans
In both clans, primarily there is the apprentices, these are the young cats that have not chosen their adult roles, but are training in all aspects of clan life. Mentors must be approved by Starclan, but are often collectively picked by all leading roles of the clan. After some time once a young cat has decided on their role, if they are still learning they would just be known as a “Junior _____”
Even younger than that we have the Kits which are so young that their main focus is just beginning to grow, and bonding with their siblings.

Cats living near the town
Of the cats that live in the town, they find themselves in three main roles. The “Kittypets” are pet cats that were brought to the town, and are perfectly happy living with their people and never roam much further than their backyard. Similarly the “Roamers” are also pet cats, but they are much more prone to roaming around the town and even visiting the edges of the clans’ territories, but still returning home to their families at the end of the day.
Finally we have the “Strays” these are cats that have no home but they still choose to hang around the town and dont mind scavenging for scraps to eat.

Lifestyles amongst the Rogues
The Rogues of the Desert describe all living cats that don’t exist in any other groups, the most common of these are the “Loners” the whole reason they aren’t part of a larger group is that they prefer to be alone. Another common role is the “Bandits” these are small groups of cats that form to steal what they can from any unlucky cats caught alone with them.
Last of the Rogues are the “Fire Tamers” now these are some of the rarest but most interesting! When the catastrophe occurred, volcanoes began to tear up some areas of the desert, and in the Lava Lands near the clans, a select few cats make their home, loving the adrenaline and excitement of living amongst the volcanoes and Lava tubes.

Hierarchy of the Otherworlds
This is a big one, and we’re also going to weave in a little lore here, but at the top of the Otherworld’s hierarchy are the deities, each given a unique name and role, but they are supreme above all other entities in the Otherworlds. There is “Midnight the Twintail” and they hold the domain of strength and certainty, and “Twilight the Losttail” holds the domain of transitions, and intermediates. They hold the top of the hierarchy of the otherworlds.
Even the place that they live in, Aeon is truly neutral above all others and is exclusive to them and some higher order spirits. These spirits include those normal cats that have ascended above normal cats, including the NPCs of Stars. This explains their ability to seemingly exist across all time, and their ability to acquire rare artefacts, and mysterious quests.
Below this we have Lunaris and Soltria, Lunaris is known for being a world cast in a beautiful moonlight and peace. The scorching sun of the desert never burns across this starry echo of a desert. Lunaris is believed to be the “good” afterlife and is where we find both “Starclan” and the “Starguides”. The Starguides are those cats that find themselves called to guide their still-living descendents. With Starclan cats content to just exist in the afterlife, only interfering with the living if they’re called on by the Starguides
Soltria on the other hand, is a world cursed by a terrible heat, a burning hot sun, brighter than anything seen by the living. This is the realm where evil cats are sent, destined to try to hide from the sun forever. All cats that Find themselves in Soltria are labelled members of “Burntclan” a nod to all the bridges they’ve burnt as well as the searing heat of Soltria.

Diagram to help
(I don't expect xp from this because its a diagram and how would the xp guidelines apply?? idk and I don't expect you to know either haha)


Word Count:1071 words <3