[dimi.]

Username: dimi.
Storage: Riftclan
Last Patrol Post: Here
Patrol: What use does one have in companionship? What use is trusting others when one can depend entirely on themselves and thrive equally, if not better?

Ravenwhisper is constantly on guard, expecting betrayal and backstabs around every corner she turns. A shroud of anxiety and fear constantly surrounds her, but she hides it behind a stoic expression that refuses to convey any sort of weakness. She believes that showing any form of fear is a weakness that one waiting to destroy her once more will exploit. She would much rather be stoic and hurt others by being emotionless than leave herself vulnerable. She is rather selfish in this regard, though given her background, those of Riftclan understand her reservations against relationships.

This molly is also one of, if not the most persistent in the clan. The clan is the one thing that has provided her protection, and she acts a shield for the clan, unleashing her talons and baring her fangs when the call roars. When a goal is given to Riftclan, she won't rest until it is either accomplished, or she is in too rough of condition to continue forward. She is constantly showing her gratefulness for being allowed into Riftclan, even if she doesn't form bonds with the cats within, she respects and appreciates everything Riftclan stands for.

-----

As a youth, Ravenkit was born into a clan that was notorious for it's family bonds and fierce loyalty. As she began to train throughout her apprenticeship, she grew a very prominent desire to impress everyone in her clan, making sure each day of training was better than the last. Her mentor was a tom she looked up to greatly; Thornstorm.

One day, close to the end of her apprenticeship, her and her mentor were on a border patrol, where they were ambushed by a duo of loners. Amidst the chaos, when Ravenpaw had an opening to strike an opponent, she froze, instead stumbling backwards and staring forward in horror. She watched as her mentor was cornered, paws flailing wildly and fur flying into the air. Fortunately, another patrol found Ravenpaw and Thornstorm in time, sparing the two of them from an untimely demise.

Following this, Ravenpaw felt guilty. She felt like she wasn't ready to become a warrior, felt that she had failed her mentor, and following the patrol, she could tell there was whispers of doubt surrounding her. Thornstorm tried to reassure the molly that it wasn't her fault, but to no avail. Ravenpaw would flee from the clan, seeking out the life of lonership instead.

She stayed in isolation for many moons, learning to fend for herself and refusing to back down from a challenge. In honor of Thornstorm, any fight that approached her, she took, showing that she had become far stronger. But the guilt still weighed heavy on her heart - she could never return home. In due time, she would remake herself. The once eager to please cat was now an emotionally void cat who believed trust was a luxury she could not afford to expend. The day that border skirmish happened, she witnessed just how little it takes for cats to leave her behind; and she'd be damned if that EVER happened again.

On one particular evening, dozens of moons later, Raven found herself scavenging for prey near an abandoned warehouse, where a meow of caution and curiosity grabbed her attention. She gazed up, meeting the blue and orange gaze of Moonstar.

"Who are you?" Raven would hiss, leaping back.

"Moonstar, leader of Riftclan, and owner of this territory. What are you doing here?" Moonstar asked, her eyes narrowed. Moonstar was a cat who was equally wary, and stoic. Raven felt immense power coming off the molly, something she liked.

"Hunting. The mice around here are particularly plump and feed me for a couple days."

"A couple days?" Moonstar grimaced. "Look, I don't think you have any hostile intentions. Would you perhaps like a place in my clan? You can hunt here without fear, and only answer to my orders occasionally."

Raven did miss the feeling clan duties gave her. She had roamed the earth for moons without purpose, without an end goal. This seemed like a way to revitalize her life. So, with a bow of her head, she graciously accepted, joining the ranks of Riftclan as a warrior.

Raven went without a warrior name for several moons, until Moonstar thought of a name that would fit her. On the day of Raven's official warrior ceremony, she was donned with the name "Ravenwhisper". This name reflected her original name, and Whisper was selected because of Raven's mysterious nature and wariness to communicate openly. It is a fitting name, at least Ravenwhisper herself believes so.

Word Count: 790 words

[Moonblaze-Angel]

Username: Moonblaze-Angel
Storage: MooseClan
Last Patrol Post: maplefall joins the clan
Patrol:

"Maplefall, care to join me on patrol today?" Mintstar pads up to the queen, nibbling on a sparrow. She'd been tidying up the nests in the hollow all morning, helping prep for new cats who might join. It was easy but tiring work, and she had hoped to get a nice little afternoon nap in.

She guiltily looks up at the tom, her new leader, and pauses before responding. He'd done so much for her, for Moose, for Mudkit, that it felt rude to say no. Besides, if he could hop around the territory every day by himself, it should be easy for her! He tilts his head to the side, patiently waiting for an answer.

"Of course, Mintstar. Let me just finish this bird real quick. Did you want some?" Maplefall nudges the bird towards him a bit. She had only seen him run off to hunt earlier and come back with prey, but not eat any himself. This tom is a one-cat hunting machine. He sometimes caught too much for just the four of them! Maplefall swears he wants to fatten them up for the winter.

He sniffs the bird, then takes a delicate bite. It always shocks Maplefall how polite he is, until she remembers he was a kittypet once. A show cat, he says. He was supposed to look pretty and show off his handsome fur. Mintstar had won prizes, too, apparently. She couldn't see it.

Honestly, she'd never been much interested in other cats. They all seemed to boring to her. Maplefall would never tell them that, of course, but it frequently entered her mind. Mintstar is a great friend and mentor, but he'd never be her mate. Honestly, she just wants a friend who can keep her on her toes. Someone fun and funny and caring in surprising ways.

Maplefall is convinced she'll never find that cat. They'd have to be something special, for sure. For now, though, Maplefall is perfectly fine helping raise Mudkit. He'd been all alone when found, and there was fox scent and blood nearby, so they all feared the worst for his mother. Mintstar had brought him back about a moon ago. The three cats (her, Mintstar, and Moose) had been trying their hardest to raise the little scrap well.

Unfortunately, he could get up to some serious hijinks if not being watched, which left it mostly up to her and Moose to care for him. Mintstar is usually too busy patrolling and hunting and finding new cats. She'd taken her fair share of patrols and hunts, too, but it was always more fun being around the kit in the hollow. Maplefall can act like a kit herself with him around.

As she notices Mintstar finish off the bird, she stands and takes a nice, long stretch. The afternoon sun always makes her sleepy. "Shall we?" Maplefall hardly takes notice of her formal speech. She'd definitely been around Mintstar too long.

He nods and takes the lead into the forest. He hops down the stepping stones along the waterfall, careful in his steps. One misplaced paw and he'd go tumbling down. Maplefall tried not to think about that as she follows him. They pass the pool at the bottom, with its little frogs and minnows, and head further into the territory. Mintstar leads her towards the far side of the area, nearest the twoleg place. The opposite of EagleClan.

She shudders, thinking if she'd fallen into their grasp instead. As kind as Mintstar is, she feels like Wrenstar might have eaten her for lunch. Hopefully, they never meet. Gatherings could go and eat fox dung for all she cares! Mintstar will just have to go without her. Besides, someone needs to watch out for Mudkit, or he'd probably show up, too.

Maplefall is so deep in thought she hardly notices the tree looming in front of her. It attacks her before she can spring away.

"Mouse dung and ticks galore! What beaver-brained bramble bush put this tree here?" Maplefall falls to the ground, holding her head from hitting the maple.

"Well, the forest, I'd imagine." A mrrow of laughter sounds from above her. Maplefall glances up between her paws.

"Say, you must be pretty clumsy to run into a tree! Or were you trying to knock me down?" The pretty orange and white tabby swishes their tail back and forth lazily. Maplefall hisses softly.

"I don't see you running down here to help me. How come you're up in the tree anyway?" She grumbles at the cat. How dare they call her clumsy! She could be very graceful, very demure. She just needs to be paying attention, is all. Not much catches her attention.

The orange cat stretches out and slowly slinks down the branch. Just before getting to the trunk, they jump down from above, landing lightly on their feet. They'd made sure to jump down on a soft bed of leaves, glowing in the sun. And the cat?

Igniting the world around them with a vibrant orange glow. Maplefall sits up, tucking her tail over her paws.

"Well now, how might I be of service, ma'am?" They say with a sweeping bow and humor in their voice. Maplefall opens her mouth to spit out something sparky.

"Well! I am desperately in need of a scoundrel off of my land. A rogue, if you would." Maplefall glares daggers at the nameless cat. How dare they interrupt her thinking! She was patrolling. This is her job as a warrior! They should be more afraid of her and Mintstar.

Mintstar! Where did he get off to? Maplefall suddenly remembers her companion, swinging her head around and scenting the air. She can only smell the new cat, and the border, several fox lengths behind her.

"Are you okay? You actually look kind of worried now, like you forgot to feed your kittens." This snaps Maplefall out of her stupor.

"Kittens?? How old do you think I am? I barely have one and he's not even mine-" She stops herself. She's giving away info about the clan!

"I dunno, maybe a moon or two older than me? One kitten already? What, did you kidnap it?" The orange cat rolls into the sunlight patch, showing off soft fur and toned muscles. Definitely not a kittypet.

"No, of course not! His mom was. Well. We think she was eaten by a fox. Me and Mintstar and Moose have been taking care of him back at the camp."

"Oh, that is unfortunate. But now he has such a pretty older sister taking care of him." The orange cat blinks slowly at Maplefall. "Besides, who's a Moose and a Mintstar? Some of those clan cats I keep hearing about?" They lazily bat at a leaf falling towards them. Maplefall purrs at the sight of them being such a kitten with a perfectly unknown stranger.

"Why yes, actually! We just started a new clan and I'm in it and my warrior name is Maplefall and Mintstar is our leader and he's very sweet and kind and he's the one who found Mudkit but he's very shy, too, so he usually let's me do all the talking and-" Maplefall notices the orange cat perk up. They stand, tail twitching.

"What, competition already?" They snort. "Your name is quite fitting, miss fell into a maple."

"You haven't even told me your name! What should I call you, Leafkit? Maybe Sparkkit or Moldyeyes?"

"Just Minnow works. That's my name, after all." They lick their paw and flick it behind their messy ears. It does nothing to smooth down their unruly fluff. "Say, did you want to-"

"Join a Clan, perhaps?" Maplefall and Minnow turn their heads to see Mintstar emerge from the bushes to their side. He sits down near Maplefall. She has the good sense to look a little guilty.

"Oh, uh, who are you?" Minnow looks between the two cats, a little nervous.

Mintstar settle his fluffy tail over his injured back leg, a habit he picked up in his first clan.

"My name is Mintstar. I believe Maplefall was telling you about the clan? We always need more strong, young cats to join us. You already get along with Maplefall here." He flicks the end of his tail, bemused with himself. Both of the other cats shuffle their paws. Talking isn't a crime!

"I mean, that much is true. But what do y'all need a kitty like me for? I'm mostly a loner myself. In fact I should probably be on my way soon. Need to catch supper." They start to slowly inch backwards. Mintstar follows their movement like a hawk.

"Wait! You could just come for one night. We already have fresh-kill in the pile, and nests I made today." Maplefall takes a step towards them. "You could share the warrior's den with me! It's just us four right now, including Mudkit, and it can be really lonely at night. Even if you're a loner, you should have a chance for a decent meal and rest." She attempts to persuade them, hoping for just a bit more time to know this cat. They could adjust, like she did.

Minnow pauses in their retreat, looking back and forth between the two of them. They finally shrug.

"What's the worst that could happen?"

Word Count: 1556

[werepickle]

Username: werepickle
Storage: Rubbletooth Clan
Last Patrol Post: xxx
Patrol:
Baker sat in the dim light of his dilapidated building, the air thick and heavy around him. The heat of the day pressed against his skin like an unwelcome blanket, and he could hear the distant hum of cicadas, their incessant chirping a reminder of the sweltering summer. He glanced at his meager food stock and pondered whether he should venture out to hunt, it was an instinct he cherished, yet he knew that venturing out in this blistering heat would be unwise. Instead, he settled into the cool embrace of shadow cast by the crumbling walls and observed the world outside. With a sigh, Baker decided that hunting could wait; for now, he needed to escape the confines of his dilapidated building. The streets were nearly deserted; most people had chosen to remain indoors, seeking refuge from the oppressive heat.

Baker first ran into Ducky on a warm afternoon, during a small scouting expedition to familiarize himself with the neighborhood. He had ventured out to assess potential allies for his clan, a ragtag group of street cats united by their need for survival and companionship. As he navigated the streets, his keen eyes caught sight of Ducky playfully darting between patches of sunlight.

“Hey there!” Baker called out, his voice friendly yet cautious. “What’s a cat like you doing around here? You should join us; we could use someone with your spirit.”

Ducky paused mid-pounce, tilting his head in curiosity. “Join you? But I love my family! Especially Lily. She’s so kind to me.” The mention of the little girl brought a soft smile to Baker’s face; he could imagine the bond between them.

Baker sighed, understanding that coaxing Ducky away from that warmth would be an uphill battle. “I get it,” he replied gently. “Family is important. But if you ever want to explore the world outside these walls, we’d welcome you.”

Realizing it was futile to attempt any further persuasion, Baker smiled gently instead. “Then let’s be friends,” he offered sincerely.

Ducky’s face brightened with joy as he nodded enthusiastically. “I’d like that!”

From that day forward, their friendship blossomed amidst sunbeams and shadows. Sticking to the edges of sunlight to avoid being scorched by its intensity, Baker often found himself bounding from one shadow to another while Ducky basked in warmth within his home. It became their routine: Baker would scout around while Ducky kept watch from his sunny perch.

One day, as Baker approached their usual meeting spot during the warm summer day, he spied Ducky lounging lazily in the window, soaking up what little sunlight filtered through the glass. The young cat looked content and carefree—his fur glistening in golden hues.

“Hey there!” Baker called out softly as Ducky looked up from his perch with a short happy meow before leaping down gracefully.

As he ambled around the back of the house, Baker felt a sense of joy in their friendship despite their different lives. Just then, a brown head peeked through the plastic cat flap—a curious sight indeed.

“Morning Baker, a bit warm today isn’t it?” Ducky chirped as his head poked through the catflap.

“It sure is! I’m not brave enough to venture too far while the sun’s out,” Baker replied with a playful flick of his tail.

“Woulda wanna come in for a bit?” Ducky asked hopefully.

“Oh, I’d love to!” Baker exclaimed, his eyes sparkling at the thought of companionship.

The moment he entered Ducky’s home, he was greeted by a refreshing breeze from the air conditioner and soon he made his way to the kitchen where a bowl of cool water awaited him. Lapping up as much as he dared without feeling greedy, he felt rejuvenated. After quenching his thirst, he hopped onto the ledge next to Ducky who was cleaning his fur under soft sunlight filtering through the window.

At first, words went unspoken between them; there was something comforting about their shared silence. They groomed each other gently making sure every hard-to-reach spot was clean and tidy.
“How you been holding up?” Ducky questioned, worry gently laced in his voice. He watched Baker’s gaze drift beyond the window, lost in thoughts that seemed to weigh heavily on him.

Baker hesitated, searching for words that felt elusive today. “Some days are tougher than others,” he finally replied, his voice barely above a whisper. “But I’ve been holding up alright.” The honesty in his tone was mixed with an unspoken burden; it was a truth he often shared only with Ducky.

Ducky stared at him intently, sensing that there was more beneath Baker's facade—an ocean of emotions masked by calm indifference. He considered pressing further but decided against it; some battles were best fought another day. Instead, he shifted gears with a light-hearted question to ease the tension. “Have ya recruited any new strays?” A hint of jealousy crept into his voice as he asked.

“Nah,” Baker replied, oblivious to Ducky’s feelings. “It’s been quieter these few days; apart from the occasional house cat, none that need a place to stay.” His focus returned to gazing out at the world beyond their home. As silence enveloped them once more, Baker settled deeper into Ducky’s fur—soft and warm—listening to the rhythmic thumping of his heartbeat. It was soothing and familiar; it reminded him that he wasn’t alone in this vast world where loneliness often loomed large. Minutes passed like gentle waves lapping at their feet as fatigue began to tug at Baker's eyelids. The worries of life faded into a distant hum as he leaned closer against Ducky and surrendered to drowsiness.

~ FEW HOURS LATER ~
Baker stirred from his slumber, the sudden movement from Ducky jolting him awake. Stretching along the ledge of the window, he peered outside to find that the once bright sun had surrendered to the soft glow of the moon. The scent of something delicious wafted through the air, teasing his senses and stirring a familiar hunger within him. With a gentle thump, he jumped down and ambled towards the backdoor, hoping to slip out unnoticed.

However, his attempt was futile as Ducky perched himself on the fragile railing, his tail swaying with a rhythm that matched Baker’s heartbeat. When Ducky turned at the sound of movement and saw Baker, relief washed over his face like a warm summer rain. “Leaving already?” he asked, a hint of sadness creeping into his voice.

“I’ve overstayed my welcome,” Baker replied politely, though an ache formed in his chest at the thought of leaving. “But I’m not too far away if you ever want to visit.” He tried to reassure Ducky with a smile.

“Mmh, I guess that’s true,” Ducky said softly, his gaze drifting towards the moonlit garden where silver fingers of light danced across the grass. A moment passed in comfortable silence before concern nudged at Baker’s heart.

“Are you okay?” he ventured gently, eyes searching Ducky’s for any hint of unease.

Lost in thought for a moment longer, Ducky finally responded with a distant tone. “Hmm yeah… I’m okay. I just spaced out; I’m sorry.” He hopped off the railing as it wobbled precariously beneath him and padded over to Baker. Nuzzling under Baker’s chin, he relished in the warmth and comfort that only his friend could provide.

“I guess I’ll see you again sometime,” Ducky murmured softly, hating even the thought that Baker wouldn’t be around more often.

“Of course! You can’t get rid of me that easily,” Baker said with a smile that lit up his eyes like stars against a dark sky.

With those words hanging in the air between them like an unbreakable promise, Baker turned and bounded toward the grass—his version of home—and with each step felt lighter despite their parting.

Ducky watched him go until he was just a silhouette against the shimmering moonlight before sauntering back inside. He padded quietly to little Lily's room and jumped onto her bed, curling up in her soft blankets. As sleep began to wash over him like gentle waves lapping at shorelines, thoughts filled with visions of Baker danced through his mind—memories cherished and dreams woven together for future visits yet to come.
Word Count: 1362

[DachasaurusZen]

Username: DachasaurusZen
Storage: ShellClan
Last Patrol Post: here
Patrol:

ShellStar was sitting on top of the hollow, mossy log that she used as her den. StormySea and SandpiperPaw chattered contentedly in the middle of the clearing. ShellStar purred to herself, proud that she was able to recruit cats into her growing Clan.
Good morning! ShellStar called happily. She trotted up to SandpiperPaw and StormySea and sat next to them, wrapping her tail around her paws.
StormySea dipped her head neatly. Good morning. Shall we hunt individually or together today?
ShellStar thought for a moment, tipping her head. I think I'll take SandpiperPaw and teach her how to get seabirds looking for clams. You can hunt near the treeline.
StormySea nodded, stretched, and walked out of the clearing. The way she walked, it was practically gliding.
SandpiperPaw turned her attention to ShellStar, and danced around in a circle. Let's go, let's go! I can't wait!
ShellStar purred. She stood and led SandpiperPaw out of the clearing, heading in the opposite direction than StormySea. As they passed a large bush, SandpiperPaw stuck her nose into the grass. She made a startled noise, and ShellStar turned around quickly.
SandpiperPaw shook out her fur, regaining her composure. A bug scared me.
ShellStar chuckled, and shook her fluffy tail. She turned back towards the ocean and continued to lead the apprentice towards the water. ShellStar purred as her paws sunk into the cool, damp sand.
Over there. ShellStar nudged SandpiperPaw with her nose, flicking her tail in the direction of a small group of seabirds.
SandpiperPaw squealed in excitement as ShellStar led her behind a log of driftwood.
Now, I'll get one, and then I'll show you how. ShellStar whispered. She was about to teach a new generation of her clan how to provide for her future clanmates.

Word Count: 294

[Clover_wolf]

Username: Clover_wolf
Storage: https://www.chickensmoothie.com/Forum/viewtopic.php?f=103&t=4990314
Last Patrol Post: N/A
Patrol:
Brindle'star padded through his territory as the sun's rays fell on his long coat, It reminded him of his past as kit. He remembered playing with his brothers. While his parents watched with a playful smirk. He missed his siblings and parents somewhat. He wondered what they would think of him now. I'm sure they would be proud. He enjoyed the thought his eyes searching. He shook out his long fur padding forward and looking around. As he came to the clan's borders. He marked his scent before watching the territory. It was beautiful, and he loved that it was his. He let out a sigh and looked up with determination, before turning around his paws leading him back to the camp, he stopped at a small puddle drinking the water before continuing on his way. His tail lashed as he started to return to the camp. Maybe he should find a juicy mouse to eat? Brindle'star thought about that for a moment. Before shaking his head and deciding against it. Brindle'star paused resisting the urge to climb a tree. It was childish. But maybe he could catch a squirrel or Bird? He doubted it. He didn't have the most gentle feet. He shrugged and decided to do it anyway, climbing up the tree, he could feel the slight wind as he climbed before sitting on a branch watching below him. He chuckled to himself. He was so..free. And before his clan grows bigger he would be able to do other things then just stay in camp all day. He loved the job don't get him wrong. Watching over a clan as cats grow up..well. Yeah. He smiled slightly at the thought of a full clan. While it was just him for now he couldn't wait to see which cats in the future would join him.
Word Count:
Just patrol: 306
All together: 333

[Alizba]

Username: Alizba
Storage: TreeRoots Clan
Last Patrol Post: Here
Patrol:
Fox’Tail lay in the tree hiding away while looking down at Snow’Owl who was talking with a kit. It's a new day, a new day to try to get rid of Snow’Owl. Fox’Tail hopped down from the tree to start walking around the tratory in hopes of seeing something that might work or give them an idea on what to do. He ended up leaving the tratory to wander the forest; it would be easier to find something without another cat knowing or watching his every move. Fox’Tail wonder deep into the woods looking around there were mushrooms and other stuff. Till they saw a plant that “Mother” told them to never get near when they were a kit. It was a Henbane plant. The only problem is how are they going to bring it back without touching it. Fox’Tail decided to start walking back without the plant; there might be some on the border of the clan around the forests they could lead Snow’Owl to. As they walk around the border, they see Snow’Owl mumbling to them self. Fox’Tail watch from behind listening in to their conversation Snow’Owl was having with herself. Snow’Owl kept on mumbling about some dream they had the other night; it was as if they were hearing things or seeing things. That brought a grin to Fox’Tail face as they left Snow’Owl and headed back to camp. Fox’Tail knows that Snow’Owl knows little of the outside world that can be just what they need to drive them away.
Word Count: 253

[◇ Echo ◇]

Username: ◇ Echo ◇
Storage: Cottonstar's Journey
Last Patrol Post: Forum/viewtopic.php?p=146727018#p146727018
Patrol:
Akirastorm’s origin! Akira was originally a loner traversing the arctic tundra. After hostile encounters with various others, she put on an ice cold mask to defend her truer self. That was until Cotton found her. Cottonstar, the charismatic feline he is, would find his way to her softer side after stumbling across her while recruiting cats. He was slow in initial interactions, noticing she appreciated her space. He learned her interests and became her friend over time before finally offering up a position in his clan - as a healer. She liked the idea and had grown fond of him, he reminded her of her brother she lost in kithood. Therefore, she agreed to join the rebuilt clan and learn the ways of a healer, taking on the warrior name Akirastorm

•••

About Silverpaw! Silver got her bandana from torn fabric of a blanket her mother had owned. It was a gift for her, her and each of her siblings each got their own. She took it with her when her mother sent her off to find a better life, and held onto it ever since, keeping it close to lock in her mother's memory. She encountered HarpClan when they were in the mountains and joined when invited into the clan.

•••

The moon was quiet, there weren't many new recruits recently. Cottonstar sent patrols almost daily, but the areas weren't as populated as he believed. However, that didn't mean all was bad or slow. Prey this season was abundant, actually! Cotton and the others of course made sure they didn't over hunt, but they also were sure to get what they needed to stock up. The felines made their ways towards the plains this moon, hoping someone knew would be present there. Excited chatter was in the air, Ashenrain was feeling good about this one!

•••

Tales of the Ancients (p1)
Omnūs - the feline god of the sky, the stars, the moon. Omnūs is described as having thick, luscious fur that keeps it protected in the cold beyond the sky. It's pelt carries various patterns formed of stars, the largest resembling the greatest of past leaders. It's long tail wraps around the horizon, protecting the felines within from outside threats. It's said the emotions of Omnūs are the things which cause the weather. If it gets angry, there are thunderstorms accompanied by harsh rain. It's happiness and content brings the brightest and warmest of days. It's sadness will bring downfalls of rain. And so much more. There's an explanation made for each sky residing storm.

Word Count: 425 words

[Berryy]

Username: Berryy
Storage: LushClan
Last Patrol Post: Here
Patrol:


You see two young toms playfighting rather violently in the middle of the clearing, while everyone else is trying to recover from the dawn patrols. As you were about to get up and smack some sense into those hooligans, Sunflare emerges from the elders’ den and shakes her head. “Let me handle this. I know these mouse-brains since they were kits.” And indeed, with one snarl from the molly, the flurry of paws and tails quickly disassembled into two, shaggy-looking warriors, who were so-so-sorry. With a triumphant smirk, the ginger point turns around and plops down next to you. “They know better than to test my patience. I failed them both during their warrior assessment back when I was deputy for la couple moons.” Wait, what!? You wonder how you haven’t heard of this yet. But you don’t even have to ask the old molly for elaboration, as she happily begins her recounting the events almost immediately anyways.

“Roughly 6 moons before the old clan’s downfall, our deputy, who was my best friend entrusted me to temporarily take over her position while was in the nursery with kits. And with that, it was also my job to oversee the apprentices’ progress with their training. Sharkpaw and Skippaw were always quite a pawful bunch, actually…”

Shark was an orphaned kit found inside and abandoned ship and the moment we brought this pathetic looking kitten, still wet and looking like a rat, Skipkit instantaneously claimed him as his best friend. And since he was the biggest and strongest the nursery, no one dared to mess with the newcomer, not that Sharkkit was a pushover. In fact, the sole reason with named him Sharkkit, was because he had a biting problem. Even with cats three times his size. And when he picked on the other kits a little too hard, Skipkit would swoop in and protect him. In my opinion, the little brat should’ve been taught some respect instead, but hey, they’re not my kits!

So uh, yeah, apprenticeship. As you might’ve guessed, they were still thick as thieves. But their friendship has also evolved into a rivalry of some sorts. You see, Skippaw was the bigger and stronger one, but Sharkpaw was, and still is, extremely cunning on the battlefield, mixed in with a baffling lack of self-preservation. They were evenly matched. So, these two would often get a little bit too into battle training and send each other into the medicine den, which resulted in them being banned from sparring together. And then, they found other ways to compete. Hunting, running, climbing, log hopping, diving, fish-eating, stick-fighting and unfortunately, dog scaring, no matter what we forbade them from doing, they always found something else. Slowly, the clan grew extremely annoyed with their antics and demanded an end to this. I, as the temporary deputy decided to take charge of the situation. And let me tell you… it turned out interesting.

The plan was he following: during the next seasonal trial only ONE of them was allowed to earn their warrior name, no matter how they compared to the others. This way, they could have their stupid little competition to decide which one of them was better, once and for all. Little did they know, I planned on failing them both. It was all a trick to prove how idiotic this whole thing was. If they’re not acting their age, they shouldn’t be warriors yet!

So, the trials began and we made sure, to separate them as much as we could until the final game, which was a hunting test that year. We always follow the participants from a distance, as a safety measure. As it was expected they were too busy trying to one-up each other to actually pay attention to their surroundings. And since we were too far away, we didn’t immediately sense the danger: a huge anaconda ambushed them! I never seen those two fish-heads fight so organized and well-behaved before, covering each other’s backs as the predator tried to circle them. By the time we managed to intervene, they were trying to figure out how to carry the cold-blooded beast’s carcass back to camp. I guess their little competitions did have one perk, at least, it motivated them to strive to be better and after the incident no one could deny their skills. But still, letting your guard down is outside of camp absolutely irresponsible and mistakes like these often come with a bloody price. So despite their impressive fight, the elders still decided to delay their ceremonies, and thus Sharkpaw and Skippaw were the last among their friends to become warriors. Thankfully, this was enough of a wakeup call for them the relax a little bit. As you can see, they’re still far from perfect, but now at least they’re mature enough to understand the gravity of serious situation and act accordingly.

Word Count: 815 words

[dimi.]

Patrol Results: Week of October 4th
To claim this XP, head over to Leveling and fill out the Patrol form! This experience will not be applied until you do so.

$$Space moon$$: 79 xp
dimi. 79 xp
Moonblaze-Angel: 155 xp
Werepickle: 136 xp
DachasaurusZen: 29 xp
Clover_Wolf: 30 xp
Alizba: 25 xp
Echo: 42 xp
Berryy: 81 xp

Posts for the week of October 11th are now open!

[ghostcatts]

Username: Ghostcatts
Storage: Marshclan
Last Patrol Post: N/A
Patrol: The sky churned with dark clouds, rolling like waves on an angry sea. The wind howled through the trees, bending their ancient trunks as if they were mere twigs. Misty crouched at the edge of the forest, her silver-blue pelt rippling in the gusts. Her eyes, pale as the mist she was named after, narrowed as she stared ahead. Beyond the trees lay the marshlands, a place she had never seen but had dreamt about for seasons.

Starclan had called her here, not that she knew what or who they were, but she felt an intense feeling of urgency at their tone. She had dreamt of thin, wailing cats, fire and smoke, and fear. Her body shivered as she recalled the last one, 2 sunsets ago. A large shimmering black she-cat with stars in her pelt pleaded for her to come to these marshes, that it was her duty in life to save a clan of cats that resided on the moors near her twoleg den. After asking around, she learnt the clan, Breezeclan, had been struck by famine, the cold moons of leaf-bare dragging on longer than anyone could remember. Prey had vanished, leaving their warriors weak and hungry. Two legs had moved into their territory, scaring the pray with big monsters and showing no mercy to the poor cats that happened to be in their path.

Misty’s fur bristled against the chill of the wind as rain began to fall, heavy drops slapping against the ground. There was no turning back now. The storm might slow her, but it wouldn’t stop her. She glanced back toward the twolegplace she called home, her heart aching for the warmth of her nest, but the hunger in her belly and the thought of her purpose finally being fulfilled drove her on. With a steady breath, she padded into the storm.

The rain pelted down harder, drenching her fur until it clung to her thick fur. Each step became a battle as the ground beneath her turned to slick mud, threatening to steal her paws from under her. Thunder rumbled overhead, and a jagged flash of lightning lit up the sky, showing glimpses of the treacherous path ahead. Sharp rocks jutted from the earth, the remnants of ancient twoleg ruins, and narrow streams swelled into rushing torrents.

Misty kept her gaze fixed on the horizon, where the marshlands waited beyond the storm. Every instinct in her body screamed to seek shelter, to hunker down and wait for the storm to pass. But she knew time wasn’t a luxury she had. Gritting her teeth, she pressed on.

Suddenly, a crack of lightning struck a nearby tree, and Misty leaped back with a yowl as the trunk splintered, crashing to the ground with a deafening roar. Her heart pounded in her chest, her paws slipping in the mud as she scrambled to regain her footing. For a moment, she stood frozen, her mind racing with doubt. Was this really her journey to make, she hadn’t even met this group of cats, who’s to say they’d even trust her?

As the storm raged on, she wove her way through the treacherous landscape, her muscles burning with effort. She leapt over swollen streams, claws gripping the slippery rocks as the water surged beneath her. Her fur was soaked, and her paws stung with cold, but she kept moving. There was no room for hesitation, not now.

Hours passed, and the storm showed no sign of relenting. Misty’s legs felt like lead, and her vision blurred with exhaustion. Just as her strength began to fade, she crested a hill, and there it was—the Marshlands. Even through the driving rain, she could see it stretching out before her, vast and wild. Tall grasses swayed in the wind, and pools of water shimmered like silver under the flashes of lightning. Misty’s heart leapt. She had made it.

The marshes beckoned her with their promise of prey and safety, but the storm still raged around her. Carefully, she descended into the marshlands, her paws sinking into the wet earth. The air was thick with the smell of damp moss and stagnant water, and though the marsh was eerie, it felt alive in a way that made her heart surge with hope.

She padded deeper into the marsh, her ears pricked for any sign of prey. The rain had eased into a steady drizzle, the thunder now a distant growl. Misty’s eyes flicked around the landscape, and soon, she caught sight of movement—a frog, plump and ripe for the taking. Without hesitation, she dropped into a crouch, her hunger sharpening her senses. With one swift pounce, she snagged the frog between her claws, delivering a quick bite.

As the taste of fresh prey filled her mouth, Misty knew this was just the beginning. The Marshlands were rich with life, and she would bring this bounty back to Breezeclan. Her journey had been long and perilous, but she had made it. The storm had tested her, but it couldn’t break her spirit. She knew that this place was right, that starclan had chosen her to make this discovery because no other cat could, they were weakened with starvation and probably scared for their lives.

She glanced up, noticing for the first time that the tree in front of her had burst into flames. Startled she jumped back, alarmed by the fact she was too lost in thought to realise. However she soon realised this fire didn’t burn her pelt and there was no strong odor of smoke being omitted from it and that from the middle of the fire a starry black face stared back at her. She blinked and the fire was gone, in its place was a charred black stump. This was the place, she thought, this is where breezeclan shall reside.

Word Count: 974