πππππππππ !!
# of cats; 84 (β: 40 / β: 44)
servings req'd; 14 servings (90)
next moonpool visit; any time
pebbles; 40
β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬
π ππ ππ π π πππ ,
"You're quiet today," Oakback said, making Falcongaze jump. He cast his gaze sideways at his brother, finding a small smile curling the corners of his maw. Falcongaze flicked his eyes forward, to where their mother was striding forward, prey clamped between her jaws, the older warriors happy to trail along behind her, clearly not paying attention to the pair of young toms. Falcongaze shrugged.
"I'm just tired, I guess."
"Ah, from the gathering." Oakback nodded, sagely. "You know, I don't think I've seen you smile so much since Cinderdawn and Sleetbreeze used tree sap to stick Hazelskip's paws together while she was sleeping." Falcongaze ducked his head to hide the smile that the memory evoked.
"It was a nice night," Falcongaze said evenly, avoiding looking at Oakback so he wouldn't have to accept the fact that his brother could see right through him. Indeed, Oakback hummed his agreement, nodding again as they carefully stepped up a rise, following the rest of the patrol on the trek back to camp, Leafbare light dim over the treetops.
"Mhm, I'm sure it was," he said, "you had QuickClan scent all over you, but I didn't realize you were friends with anyone from the clan... until Harepuddle said you were getting along quite swimmingly with another young warrior." Falcongaze spluttered, but Oakback just continued, voice lilted with amusement. "He was telling me that he was quite a handsome young cat, you know? He said he looked like Redstar, and you know what Mom used to say about Redstar..."
"Okay, yes, he was Redstar's son, but that doesn't mean anything! He was nice, he was close to my age and there was a dog. There was a dog, Oakback. We were bonding over the absurdity of the situation!"
"Oh, so you were bonding-"
"Oakback!" Falcongaze gave an exasperated sigh, feeling his pelt heat. "I get enough of this teasing from Sleetbreeze, I don't need it from you too!" Shadowtail turned back to face her sons, curiosity in her eyes. She tilted her head at them, speaking around a mouthful of rabbit.
"Everything okay back there, boys?"
"Yes, Mom, everything's fine!" Falcongaze insisted, shooting daggers in his glare at Oakback, who simply smiled and gave his mother a reassuring look. Seemingly comforted, Shadowtail drew her attention away and continued on, as Falcongaze leaned in and swatted Oakback around the ears. His brother ducked at the last second, purring lightly.
"Oh, don't be angry, Falcongaze. I think it's wonderful that you have a crush, and on such a handsome tom no less... with gorgeous red fur the colour of oak leaves in Leaf-fall, and sparkling green eyes that you could lose yourself in... a silky smooth voice, perhaps? A smile that lights the sky brighter than the stars of Silverpelt?" He danced away from another swat, laughing his throaty laugh.
"I don't have a crush! I don't!"
"That's why you've been smiling giddily ever since you came back, then?"
"Ugh. I hate you. I'm disowning all of you as my siblings." Oakback's laughter echoed around the GroveClan territory, lost to the wind of late Leafbare, as his brother made a show of surging ahead, head ducked low in embarrassment, but Oakback didn't miss the shy, private smile on his brother's maw as his thoughts wandered inevitably back to handsome young Cardinalheart and his first gathering.
β β β
"Hey," Shadowtail turned, as snowflakes settled gently on the campground in the fading light. Cats raced for the dens, or the boughs of the trees to take shelter as the sunset turned the landscape golden. Dustfang stood, grey pelt speckled with white, as he gave her a fond smile. "I'm looking for my mate. She's about your height, brown fur, the most gorgeous eyes on the planet, a laugh brighter than the sun, and she's the most wonderful cat on the planet. Have you seen her?"
"You are such a sap," Shadowtail purred, as Dustfang stepped closer and nuzzled their noses together. "Hi. How was patrol?"
"Oh, same old, you know how it is. I for one cannot wait for the kit boom to be over so that we'll have more opportunities to patrol together again."
"Oh Dustfang, you know as soon as one kit boom ends, another begins. It's almost Newleaf, which means more kits, which means more apprentices..." Dustfang chuckled a little, licking her forehead affectionately. She stepped close against his side, as the pair of them wandered over to the gnarled roots of an spruce tree, nestling close against them and letting the leaves shield them from the snow. Dustfang immediately set to work grooming her.
"Well, in that case, I hope we get given apprentices together. Any excuse to see you more often."
"You're particularly romantic today, hm?" Shadowtail seemed amused, pausing her ministrations to his chest in order to touch her nose to his again. It elicited a rumbling purr from him, as he nuzzled their foreheads together.
"I'm always romantic, my love, but... I feel that I haven't expressed how much I love you all that recently. And I know, before you say it, that you know how much I love you and I say it in other ways... but that doesn't stop me from wanting to tell you explicitly, that I adore you. That you, and my kits, are the most important things in my life. After Tanglestep, I thought I'd never find anyone else, and I certainly wasn't expecting it to be anyone as radiant as you, but now... now a part of me thinks that everything prior to GroveClan happened for a reason, because I was made to meet you. You complete me, Shadowtail. You are the light of my life; you make me feel happy on days when I'm sad, calm when I'm afraid, and strong when I feel weak. Your kindness and your brilliance never cease to amaze me, and I'm always filled with wonder at how I got so lucky."
"Oh... Dustfang," Shadowtail's voice was choked with emotion, as she leaned in to press her nose into his fur, his tail sweeping around her protectively. "I love you too. You're kind, and patient, and gentle and you care so implicitly about every other cat that I worry it'll turn you grey- well, greyer than you already are-" she snickered as he playfully nipped her ear. "I never imagined you'd feel the same way but... I'm glad you do. I'm glad it worked out like this, because I love you so, so much, and I couldn't imagine a life without you in it."
"I'm not going anywhere," he said, nestling closer to her as she let out a deep purr. "You have me, for as long as you want me, I'm yours."
"Forever, then." Dustfang laughed.
"Forever."
β β β
"Howdy, big dude," Dusklight jumped, shocked out of his thoughts. He looked up to find Sedgefire hovering over him, smiling warmly. "You're thinking huh? That's dangerous?" As he laughed, she nodded to the space next to him. "Mind if I join you?"
"By all means," he said, scooting over a little so that Sedgefire could nestle herself next to him in his nest. The warrior's den was the only den capable of keeping all the cats in the clan in it, even if it was a little cramped, but it was welcome against the howling blizzard outside. Whole families wedged together- Roseclaw and Pinefeather twined tightly around each other, their kits close by and back-to-back with Cherrypaw and Fernpaw, who were nestled close to Lionheart's flank while Ashenstrike joked with Hawkthorn, making the smaller tom laugh.
"Thanks," Sedgefire said, "I figured it was the least I could do, seeing as your sister abandoned you for my brother," she cast a glance across to where Dawnblossom was snuggled up against Halfpond, while the tom chatted with his half-brothers and parents. Dusklight cast her an amused look, nodding to the nest behind him where Novella and Mousestone were curled up, Archibald fast asleep with his back to Novella's.
"I wasn't too lonely, I have these two to annoy after all."
"No you don't," Mousestone said without opening her eyes or lifting her chin from Novella's haunches, "I'm sleeping."
"You're doing a bad job of it," he said, and Novella purred. Sedgefire met her gaze, shaking her head in amusement.
"I doubt you could ever really be lonely, you make friends faster than Hazelskip speaks, which really is some kind of super-cat feat, you know. But... we haven't talked in ages. I wanted to ask you about a move that you pulled in one of those sparring sessions a couple moons back. I've been trying to get it right but I can't seem to get enough of a twisting motion when I do it." Dusklight lit up immediately, happy to launch into explaining the mechanics of the move to his friend.
Across the den, Pinefeather groomed his mate, head tipped back to reach under Roseclaw's chin, while the ginger tom spoke to his sister and his kits. He was warm and content, Frecklepaw sleeping against his side with Eveningpaw resting against him. Morningpaw was stretched out at Roseclaw's back, chatting to Tuipaw, while Russetpaw sat between Roseclaw and Cherrypaw, prompting his father and aunt with questions about their old clan.
Ashenstrike and Hawkthorn swapped old jokes and stories that their fathers had told them once upon a time, as Acornstream nestled close to her mate, Squirrelwhisker sat with his back to his parents, both Woodbloom and Adderstorm curled against him, while Hazelskip leaned on her older brother and her mother, paws entwined with Quailberry's where he leaned back against Harepuddle, who was chatting amicably to Sootface and Spidernose.
Tuipaw and his siblings were clustered close together, wedged between Flintburr and Silvermoon, bracketed by Frostbranch and Ripplemist where they twined together, and Dawnblossom at the other end, where she leaned against Halfpond, who in turn was back to back with Boulderflame, who cradled his kits close against his wide, with Flowershine warming them from the other.
Badgerstar and Maplefall cuddled close, Maplefall facing Fawnrunner and chatting excitedly, while Badgerstar was turned to speak with Midnightstream and Emberwing, while Juniperstorm and Thunderspark twined close, the rest of Thunderspark's siblings acting as layers of insulation surrounding their father, Stonepatch. And as all of them spoke, as the families of GroveClan huddled together for warmth, filling the den with happiness and cheer, a blizzard raged on outside, harsh winds and bitter chill not even so much as standing a chance of reaching any of the cats of the clan; safe and warm and most importantly: together.
π₯π πππͺ,
"GroveClan, gather beneath Highbranch!" Badgerstar's voice rung out in the clear Newleaf morning. A persistent chill still hung in the air, but the sun was already rising, bathing the grove in a warmth. The clan was quick to assemble, fanning out in the space around the Leader's tree to listen to Badgerstar's announcement. "First of all, let me say how glad I am that Newleaf is here again," a ripple of laughter echoed around the cats, "and I can't wait for our clan to grow again, as it inevitably will. Today, we start on the process of that growth again, as Flowershine and Boulderflame's kits have reached an age where they can be apprenticed. Unfortunately, one of the kits- Bramblekit- has been sick, and Goldleaf has asked that he be appointed an apprentice next moon instead, so she can observe his cough." Cats near to Bramblekit leaned down to touch their noses to his cheek, which prompted a kind smile from the shy little tom.
"This is a special day for me, because it makes me feel very old. For those of you unaware, Flowershine was the very first apprentice that GroveClan ever had, and on that day I was so afraid of how to give her a proper clan name, and who should be her mentor, and a million and one other things that seemed forever uncertain. Now, she stands before me as a proud she-cat, and a mother to her own kits, who will grow to be as undoubtedly kind, diligent and compassionate as she has shown herself to be. Brackenkit, Thornkit and Thicketkit, from this day on until you receive your warrior names, you will be known as Brackenpaw, Thornpaw and Thicketpaw respectively, to signify the journey that StarClan will guide you on. Brackenpaw, your mentor will be Dawnblossom. She was trained excellently by her mentor, Shadowtail, and now it is time for her to pass on her knowledge to you. Dawnblossom is sweet, but brave and steadfast, and I know she will make you an excellent warrior." Cheers went up for the new apprentice as she bounded forward eagerly, touching her nose to Dawnblossom's, making the ginger molly purr as she nuzzled close to the little she-cat.
"Thornpaw, your mentor will be Burrcall. She has been with this clan for a long time, too, where she received her warrior training from Flintburr. Burrcall is optimistic, bright, and brilliant. Not only will she nurture you as if you are her own kit, but she will teach you everything you need to know to be as great a warrior as she is. I have every faith that her teaching will be only the best." Cheers went up for Thornpaw as Flowershine nudged her forward, the molly shyly touching noses with Burrcall, before sitting down at the large she-cat's paws.
"And finally, Thicketpaw. Your mentor will be Stonepatch. He has been a warrior of this clan for a long time, and he has many acts of bravery to be commended for. Although he is quiet and seems a little cranky, Stonepatch is warm, patient and loyal. You should be proud to have him as your mentor, as he is one of this clan's most valued warriors, and whatever he can teach you will make you an excellent warrior, for Stonepatch radiates excellency. Congratulations to all of you, I can't wait to see how you progress." A final round of cheers went up for Thicketpaw, who beamed with pride, scampering toward Stonepatch to touch noses with the scarred tom. As the cheers died down, Lionheart stepped forward to announce patrols as mentors broke off with their apprentices. Badgerstar watched with pride swelling in his chest as Starlingpaw bounded across and settled at the base of the tree, beaming up at him, waiting for their training to begin.
As Newleaf dawned, Badgerstar climbed down to the ground to touch noses with his apprentice- swiftly outgrowing him in stature- and felt the peace that always descended with the promise of a fresh start.
β β β
"I'm going to get you for that!" Cherrypaw yowled, sprinting after Flamepaw through the shallows of the lake, splashing water in his wake. Fernpaw and Mottlepaw splashed water at Pitchpaw and Pebblepaw, younger apprentices shrieking as they tried to dodge the sprays of water arced at them. Starlingpaw had climbed onto a rock just out of the shallows, gazing out over the lake as her long fur blew peacefully in the wind, while Crowpaw and Ravenpaw swam broad strokes together, chasing after Frecklepaw as he nimbly swum away, laughing loudly. Russetpaw and Eveningpaw were splashing water at each other, while Morningpaw and Tuipaw waded through the shallows further around the lake, close to the HazeClan border, Lilacpaw and Lavenderpaw a few cautious steps behind them.
Their mentors were gathered around in the Newleaf sun, Lionheart and Maplefall basking in the warmth of the Sun Rocks, chatting with Ashenstrike, Flintburr and Acornstream. Woodbloom and Squirrelwhisker walked the length of the HazeClan border together, dripping wet from the chest down. Badgerstar, Sootface, Boulderflame and Longriver tore through the lake, splashing at each other and yelling in a free-for-all, while the other mentors spread out on the lakeshore to observe the apprentices.
"This is nice," Tuipaw said, casting a smiling glance over his shoulder at where his mother was laughing with Riverbubble, "all of us training together like this." Morningpaw laughed softly, flicking her ear.
"Can you really call it training if none of us are getting anything done?"
"Hey, I'm trying to be positive here," he said, shoulder-checking her companionably. She splashed back at him, before darting out of the way. Lilacpaw and Lavenderpaw exchanged twin glances.
"Oh, I just remembered that I needed to ask Russetpaw about... something," Lilacpaw said, "come with?" Lavenderpaw nodded, and the two of them turned and bounded back to the rest of the apprentices, weaving through their mentors' splash fight with expert ease, leaving Morningpaw and Tuipaw looking confused in their wake. Tuipaw shook his head, motioning for Morningpaw to walk with him as they wandered across the shallows of the lake.
"So, how are you feeling? About fitting in and all that?" He asked.
"Better," Morningpaw said with a smile, "it's been good to talk to Russetpaw about it, in that comforting big-brother style. And... it's good to have you to talk to, as well. Since you're not obligated to be my friend or anything, so I know that you're not just doing this because you have to." Tuipaw laughed at that, shaking his head in amusement.
"Good way to look at it," he said with a purr, "and I see you and Lavenderpaw are getting along alright."
"Oh she's great," Morningpaw mewed, "good fun-" She cut herself off, pressing in close to Tuipaw's side as a yowling Flamepaw sprinted past with Cherrypaw hot on his tail. Tuipaw laughed as they passed, tilting his head down and finding his nose brushing Morningpaw's as she glanced up at him. He blinked, pelt getting hot as she glanced away, smiling shyly. "Sorry."
"No problem," he said, blinking dumbly, "glad I can be here for you. Glad you can lean on me. It's all excellent." Morningpaw laughed again, ducking her head, before a shout from Russetpaw drew her attention to Eveningpaw tackling him back into the lake. She cast a smile at Tuipaw, impish and mischievous.
"Feel like helping me mount a rescue mission?" Tuipaw nodded, firmly.
"I'm with you."
β β β
"Wasn't that great?" Badgerstar asked, wound around Maplefall long after the other mentors had retreated with their gaggle of apprentices in tow back to the campground. Now, the Newleaf sun set over the glassy lake, turning the water vibrant purple as it reflected the pinks and oranges of the sky, sun dipped low on the horizon. Maplefall nodded, leaning back into her mate as he groomed behind her ears.
"It was one of the best mentoring sessions I think I've ever had," she said with a small smile, "everyone seemed like they had fun, and I'm glad everyone in the clan gets along like that. Even Archie couldn't stop smiling." Badgerstar laughed, softly, a mischievous purr drawn from his throat.
"I think that had more to do with Rivuletflight than anything else," he said, and Maplefall snickered at him.
"Oh look at you, all knowing romance god," Badgerstar purred at the teasing, even as Maplefall went silent for a moment, "remember when we were like that? Hopelessly in love with each other but utterly clueless about it?" Badgerstar hummed, with a nod, fond and nostalgic smile on his face as he thought back to their early moons together.
"Things have changed," he said, after a while, "some things for the better and some things for the worst, obviously. But... I'm glad that we figured it out, eventually, even if it took us a little more time than it should have in the first place. But we're together now, and that's what's important. That, and the fact that I'm not planning on leaving you any time soon."
"Good," Maplefall purred, "if you somehow loose- what- five lives in one fell swoop, I'm going to come to StarClan and kick your furry behind myself, mister." Badgerstar laughed, ducking his head to press his forehead against the back of her neck.
"That's fair, and I believe you could do it." They fell quiet, watching as the sun got lower and lower, sky turning red against orange clouds. Wind rustled peacefully through the trees, blowing the earthen scent so characteristic of GroveClan against Badgerstar's nose. He closed his eyes, inhaling deeply. After a moment, he opened them again, to find Maplefall looking at him curiously. He smiled back at her, warmly. "Red sky at night is a delight, they say. Looks like the weather will be good tomorrow, maybe we can come back to the lake again. I'm sure everyone would like another day of just swimming and playing."
"I want to have more kits," Maplefall said, making Badgerstar blink at how sudden it was. She looked away, obviously a little embarrassed. "Sorry. You just look so handsome right now and I... I love you very much, and I'm so proud of you and how much you've come into your own. I thought losing Twilightkit would break us, but we've weathered that storm and every other one we've faced, and it's moment like this when I'm alone with you, and everything is peaceful, that I think about how much I adore you, and how much I want our family to grow."
"You never have to apologize to me, Maplefall, not for that." He pressed his nose to her cheek. "Are you sure? It won't be hard to find a replacement mentor for Cherrypaw. I'm sure Roseclaw or Pinefeather would be happy to mentor him. I just... if you want to wait-"
"No," Maplefall said firmly, eyes glittering with happiness, "we always talked about a big family, and that's still what I want. More kits to cherish, more siblings for our eldest kits, and I want to see that look in your eyes that you get when you see our newborn kits for the first time. It's one of my favourite looks in the world." Badgerstar laughed softly, pressing their foreheads together.
"Okay then. Let's grow this clan."
β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬
β¦ servings consumed
14/14 - x10 mice and x2 rabbits
β¦ clan events
bramblekit must wait a moon before he becomes an apprentice
all medicine cats practice medicine
all apprentices excepting those on patrol learn to swim
badgerstar and maplefall try for kits
quailberry and hazelskip use x2 rock and x2 moss to upgrade the warrior's den
mod note; accidentally aged badgerstar up two moons a couple posts ago,
so i didn't age him this post to right that, sorry :x
β¦ patrols
hunting -
1 - pinefeather, roseclaw, burningcloud, meadowfang, harepuddle, kererucall
2 - fawnrunner, ripplemist, elkbounce, deerstripe, halfpond, emberwing
3 - hawkthorn, sandcatcher, ternflutter, avocetnose, sparkfur, frostbranch
4 - shadowtail, dustfang, falcongaze, sleetbreeze, cormorantpath, willowthroat
5 - harrierstreak, featherpelt, fircloud, cinderdawn, thunderspark, juniperstorm
border -
1 - dusklight, novella, adderstorm, dustfang, oakback, sedgefire
supplies -
1 - dawnblossom, burrcall, stonepatch, brackenpaw, thicketpaw, thornpaw
# of cats; 84 (β: 40 / β: 44)
servings req'd; 14 servings (90)
next moonpool visit; any time
pebbles; 40
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π ππ ππ π π πππ ,
"You're quiet today," Oakback said, making Falcongaze jump. He cast his gaze sideways at his brother, finding a small smile curling the corners of his maw. Falcongaze flicked his eyes forward, to where their mother was striding forward, prey clamped between her jaws, the older warriors happy to trail along behind her, clearly not paying attention to the pair of young toms. Falcongaze shrugged.
"I'm just tired, I guess."
"Ah, from the gathering." Oakback nodded, sagely. "You know, I don't think I've seen you smile so much since Cinderdawn and Sleetbreeze used tree sap to stick Hazelskip's paws together while she was sleeping." Falcongaze ducked his head to hide the smile that the memory evoked.
"It was a nice night," Falcongaze said evenly, avoiding looking at Oakback so he wouldn't have to accept the fact that his brother could see right through him. Indeed, Oakback hummed his agreement, nodding again as they carefully stepped up a rise, following the rest of the patrol on the trek back to camp, Leafbare light dim over the treetops.
"Mhm, I'm sure it was," he said, "you had QuickClan scent all over you, but I didn't realize you were friends with anyone from the clan... until Harepuddle said you were getting along quite swimmingly with another young warrior." Falcongaze spluttered, but Oakback just continued, voice lilted with amusement. "He was telling me that he was quite a handsome young cat, you know? He said he looked like Redstar, and you know what Mom used to say about Redstar..."
"Okay, yes, he was Redstar's son, but that doesn't mean anything! He was nice, he was close to my age and there was a dog. There was a dog, Oakback. We were bonding over the absurdity of the situation!"
"Oh, so you were bonding-"
"Oakback!" Falcongaze gave an exasperated sigh, feeling his pelt heat. "I get enough of this teasing from Sleetbreeze, I don't need it from you too!" Shadowtail turned back to face her sons, curiosity in her eyes. She tilted her head at them, speaking around a mouthful of rabbit.
"Everything okay back there, boys?"
"Yes, Mom, everything's fine!" Falcongaze insisted, shooting daggers in his glare at Oakback, who simply smiled and gave his mother a reassuring look. Seemingly comforted, Shadowtail drew her attention away and continued on, as Falcongaze leaned in and swatted Oakback around the ears. His brother ducked at the last second, purring lightly.
"Oh, don't be angry, Falcongaze. I think it's wonderful that you have a crush, and on such a handsome tom no less... with gorgeous red fur the colour of oak leaves in Leaf-fall, and sparkling green eyes that you could lose yourself in... a silky smooth voice, perhaps? A smile that lights the sky brighter than the stars of Silverpelt?" He danced away from another swat, laughing his throaty laugh.
"I don't have a crush! I don't!"
"That's why you've been smiling giddily ever since you came back, then?"
"Ugh. I hate you. I'm disowning all of you as my siblings." Oakback's laughter echoed around the GroveClan territory, lost to the wind of late Leafbare, as his brother made a show of surging ahead, head ducked low in embarrassment, but Oakback didn't miss the shy, private smile on his brother's maw as his thoughts wandered inevitably back to handsome young Cardinalheart and his first gathering.
β β β
"Hey," Shadowtail turned, as snowflakes settled gently on the campground in the fading light. Cats raced for the dens, or the boughs of the trees to take shelter as the sunset turned the landscape golden. Dustfang stood, grey pelt speckled with white, as he gave her a fond smile. "I'm looking for my mate. She's about your height, brown fur, the most gorgeous eyes on the planet, a laugh brighter than the sun, and she's the most wonderful cat on the planet. Have you seen her?"
"You are such a sap," Shadowtail purred, as Dustfang stepped closer and nuzzled their noses together. "Hi. How was patrol?"
"Oh, same old, you know how it is. I for one cannot wait for the kit boom to be over so that we'll have more opportunities to patrol together again."
"Oh Dustfang, you know as soon as one kit boom ends, another begins. It's almost Newleaf, which means more kits, which means more apprentices..." Dustfang chuckled a little, licking her forehead affectionately. She stepped close against his side, as the pair of them wandered over to the gnarled roots of an spruce tree, nestling close against them and letting the leaves shield them from the snow. Dustfang immediately set to work grooming her.
"Well, in that case, I hope we get given apprentices together. Any excuse to see you more often."
"You're particularly romantic today, hm?" Shadowtail seemed amused, pausing her ministrations to his chest in order to touch her nose to his again. It elicited a rumbling purr from him, as he nuzzled their foreheads together.
"I'm always romantic, my love, but... I feel that I haven't expressed how much I love you all that recently. And I know, before you say it, that you know how much I love you and I say it in other ways... but that doesn't stop me from wanting to tell you explicitly, that I adore you. That you, and my kits, are the most important things in my life. After Tanglestep, I thought I'd never find anyone else, and I certainly wasn't expecting it to be anyone as radiant as you, but now... now a part of me thinks that everything prior to GroveClan happened for a reason, because I was made to meet you. You complete me, Shadowtail. You are the light of my life; you make me feel happy on days when I'm sad, calm when I'm afraid, and strong when I feel weak. Your kindness and your brilliance never cease to amaze me, and I'm always filled with wonder at how I got so lucky."
"Oh... Dustfang," Shadowtail's voice was choked with emotion, as she leaned in to press her nose into his fur, his tail sweeping around her protectively. "I love you too. You're kind, and patient, and gentle and you care so implicitly about every other cat that I worry it'll turn you grey- well, greyer than you already are-" she snickered as he playfully nipped her ear. "I never imagined you'd feel the same way but... I'm glad you do. I'm glad it worked out like this, because I love you so, so much, and I couldn't imagine a life without you in it."
"I'm not going anywhere," he said, nestling closer to her as she let out a deep purr. "You have me, for as long as you want me, I'm yours."
"Forever, then." Dustfang laughed.
"Forever."
β β β
"Howdy, big dude," Dusklight jumped, shocked out of his thoughts. He looked up to find Sedgefire hovering over him, smiling warmly. "You're thinking huh? That's dangerous?" As he laughed, she nodded to the space next to him. "Mind if I join you?"
"By all means," he said, scooting over a little so that Sedgefire could nestle herself next to him in his nest. The warrior's den was the only den capable of keeping all the cats in the clan in it, even if it was a little cramped, but it was welcome against the howling blizzard outside. Whole families wedged together- Roseclaw and Pinefeather twined tightly around each other, their kits close by and back-to-back with Cherrypaw and Fernpaw, who were nestled close to Lionheart's flank while Ashenstrike joked with Hawkthorn, making the smaller tom laugh.
"Thanks," Sedgefire said, "I figured it was the least I could do, seeing as your sister abandoned you for my brother," she cast a glance across to where Dawnblossom was snuggled up against Halfpond, while the tom chatted with his half-brothers and parents. Dusklight cast her an amused look, nodding to the nest behind him where Novella and Mousestone were curled up, Archibald fast asleep with his back to Novella's.
"I wasn't too lonely, I have these two to annoy after all."
"No you don't," Mousestone said without opening her eyes or lifting her chin from Novella's haunches, "I'm sleeping."
"You're doing a bad job of it," he said, and Novella purred. Sedgefire met her gaze, shaking her head in amusement.
"I doubt you could ever really be lonely, you make friends faster than Hazelskip speaks, which really is some kind of super-cat feat, you know. But... we haven't talked in ages. I wanted to ask you about a move that you pulled in one of those sparring sessions a couple moons back. I've been trying to get it right but I can't seem to get enough of a twisting motion when I do it." Dusklight lit up immediately, happy to launch into explaining the mechanics of the move to his friend.
Across the den, Pinefeather groomed his mate, head tipped back to reach under Roseclaw's chin, while the ginger tom spoke to his sister and his kits. He was warm and content, Frecklepaw sleeping against his side with Eveningpaw resting against him. Morningpaw was stretched out at Roseclaw's back, chatting to Tuipaw, while Russetpaw sat between Roseclaw and Cherrypaw, prompting his father and aunt with questions about their old clan.
Ashenstrike and Hawkthorn swapped old jokes and stories that their fathers had told them once upon a time, as Acornstream nestled close to her mate, Squirrelwhisker sat with his back to his parents, both Woodbloom and Adderstorm curled against him, while Hazelskip leaned on her older brother and her mother, paws entwined with Quailberry's where he leaned back against Harepuddle, who was chatting amicably to Sootface and Spidernose.
Tuipaw and his siblings were clustered close together, wedged between Flintburr and Silvermoon, bracketed by Frostbranch and Ripplemist where they twined together, and Dawnblossom at the other end, where she leaned against Halfpond, who in turn was back to back with Boulderflame, who cradled his kits close against his wide, with Flowershine warming them from the other.
Badgerstar and Maplefall cuddled close, Maplefall facing Fawnrunner and chatting excitedly, while Badgerstar was turned to speak with Midnightstream and Emberwing, while Juniperstorm and Thunderspark twined close, the rest of Thunderspark's siblings acting as layers of insulation surrounding their father, Stonepatch. And as all of them spoke, as the families of GroveClan huddled together for warmth, filling the den with happiness and cheer, a blizzard raged on outside, harsh winds and bitter chill not even so much as standing a chance of reaching any of the cats of the clan; safe and warm and most importantly: together.
π₯π πππͺ,
"GroveClan, gather beneath Highbranch!" Badgerstar's voice rung out in the clear Newleaf morning. A persistent chill still hung in the air, but the sun was already rising, bathing the grove in a warmth. The clan was quick to assemble, fanning out in the space around the Leader's tree to listen to Badgerstar's announcement. "First of all, let me say how glad I am that Newleaf is here again," a ripple of laughter echoed around the cats, "and I can't wait for our clan to grow again, as it inevitably will. Today, we start on the process of that growth again, as Flowershine and Boulderflame's kits have reached an age where they can be apprenticed. Unfortunately, one of the kits- Bramblekit- has been sick, and Goldleaf has asked that he be appointed an apprentice next moon instead, so she can observe his cough." Cats near to Bramblekit leaned down to touch their noses to his cheek, which prompted a kind smile from the shy little tom.
"This is a special day for me, because it makes me feel very old. For those of you unaware, Flowershine was the very first apprentice that GroveClan ever had, and on that day I was so afraid of how to give her a proper clan name, and who should be her mentor, and a million and one other things that seemed forever uncertain. Now, she stands before me as a proud she-cat, and a mother to her own kits, who will grow to be as undoubtedly kind, diligent and compassionate as she has shown herself to be. Brackenkit, Thornkit and Thicketkit, from this day on until you receive your warrior names, you will be known as Brackenpaw, Thornpaw and Thicketpaw respectively, to signify the journey that StarClan will guide you on. Brackenpaw, your mentor will be Dawnblossom. She was trained excellently by her mentor, Shadowtail, and now it is time for her to pass on her knowledge to you. Dawnblossom is sweet, but brave and steadfast, and I know she will make you an excellent warrior." Cheers went up for the new apprentice as she bounded forward eagerly, touching her nose to Dawnblossom's, making the ginger molly purr as she nuzzled close to the little she-cat.
"Thornpaw, your mentor will be Burrcall. She has been with this clan for a long time, too, where she received her warrior training from Flintburr. Burrcall is optimistic, bright, and brilliant. Not only will she nurture you as if you are her own kit, but she will teach you everything you need to know to be as great a warrior as she is. I have every faith that her teaching will be only the best." Cheers went up for Thornpaw as Flowershine nudged her forward, the molly shyly touching noses with Burrcall, before sitting down at the large she-cat's paws.
"And finally, Thicketpaw. Your mentor will be Stonepatch. He has been a warrior of this clan for a long time, and he has many acts of bravery to be commended for. Although he is quiet and seems a little cranky, Stonepatch is warm, patient and loyal. You should be proud to have him as your mentor, as he is one of this clan's most valued warriors, and whatever he can teach you will make you an excellent warrior, for Stonepatch radiates excellency. Congratulations to all of you, I can't wait to see how you progress." A final round of cheers went up for Thicketpaw, who beamed with pride, scampering toward Stonepatch to touch noses with the scarred tom. As the cheers died down, Lionheart stepped forward to announce patrols as mentors broke off with their apprentices. Badgerstar watched with pride swelling in his chest as Starlingpaw bounded across and settled at the base of the tree, beaming up at him, waiting for their training to begin.
As Newleaf dawned, Badgerstar climbed down to the ground to touch noses with his apprentice- swiftly outgrowing him in stature- and felt the peace that always descended with the promise of a fresh start.
β β β
"I'm going to get you for that!" Cherrypaw yowled, sprinting after Flamepaw through the shallows of the lake, splashing water in his wake. Fernpaw and Mottlepaw splashed water at Pitchpaw and Pebblepaw, younger apprentices shrieking as they tried to dodge the sprays of water arced at them. Starlingpaw had climbed onto a rock just out of the shallows, gazing out over the lake as her long fur blew peacefully in the wind, while Crowpaw and Ravenpaw swam broad strokes together, chasing after Frecklepaw as he nimbly swum away, laughing loudly. Russetpaw and Eveningpaw were splashing water at each other, while Morningpaw and Tuipaw waded through the shallows further around the lake, close to the HazeClan border, Lilacpaw and Lavenderpaw a few cautious steps behind them.
Their mentors were gathered around in the Newleaf sun, Lionheart and Maplefall basking in the warmth of the Sun Rocks, chatting with Ashenstrike, Flintburr and Acornstream. Woodbloom and Squirrelwhisker walked the length of the HazeClan border together, dripping wet from the chest down. Badgerstar, Sootface, Boulderflame and Longriver tore through the lake, splashing at each other and yelling in a free-for-all, while the other mentors spread out on the lakeshore to observe the apprentices.
"This is nice," Tuipaw said, casting a smiling glance over his shoulder at where his mother was laughing with Riverbubble, "all of us training together like this." Morningpaw laughed softly, flicking her ear.
"Can you really call it training if none of us are getting anything done?"
"Hey, I'm trying to be positive here," he said, shoulder-checking her companionably. She splashed back at him, before darting out of the way. Lilacpaw and Lavenderpaw exchanged twin glances.
"Oh, I just remembered that I needed to ask Russetpaw about... something," Lilacpaw said, "come with?" Lavenderpaw nodded, and the two of them turned and bounded back to the rest of the apprentices, weaving through their mentors' splash fight with expert ease, leaving Morningpaw and Tuipaw looking confused in their wake. Tuipaw shook his head, motioning for Morningpaw to walk with him as they wandered across the shallows of the lake.
"So, how are you feeling? About fitting in and all that?" He asked.
"Better," Morningpaw said with a smile, "it's been good to talk to Russetpaw about it, in that comforting big-brother style. And... it's good to have you to talk to, as well. Since you're not obligated to be my friend or anything, so I know that you're not just doing this because you have to." Tuipaw laughed at that, shaking his head in amusement.
"Good way to look at it," he said with a purr, "and I see you and Lavenderpaw are getting along alright."
"Oh she's great," Morningpaw mewed, "good fun-" She cut herself off, pressing in close to Tuipaw's side as a yowling Flamepaw sprinted past with Cherrypaw hot on his tail. Tuipaw laughed as they passed, tilting his head down and finding his nose brushing Morningpaw's as she glanced up at him. He blinked, pelt getting hot as she glanced away, smiling shyly. "Sorry."
"No problem," he said, blinking dumbly, "glad I can be here for you. Glad you can lean on me. It's all excellent." Morningpaw laughed again, ducking her head, before a shout from Russetpaw drew her attention to Eveningpaw tackling him back into the lake. She cast a smile at Tuipaw, impish and mischievous.
"Feel like helping me mount a rescue mission?" Tuipaw nodded, firmly.
"I'm with you."
β β β
"Wasn't that great?" Badgerstar asked, wound around Maplefall long after the other mentors had retreated with their gaggle of apprentices in tow back to the campground. Now, the Newleaf sun set over the glassy lake, turning the water vibrant purple as it reflected the pinks and oranges of the sky, sun dipped low on the horizon. Maplefall nodded, leaning back into her mate as he groomed behind her ears.
"It was one of the best mentoring sessions I think I've ever had," she said with a small smile, "everyone seemed like they had fun, and I'm glad everyone in the clan gets along like that. Even Archie couldn't stop smiling." Badgerstar laughed, softly, a mischievous purr drawn from his throat.
"I think that had more to do with Rivuletflight than anything else," he said, and Maplefall snickered at him.
"Oh look at you, all knowing romance god," Badgerstar purred at the teasing, even as Maplefall went silent for a moment, "remember when we were like that? Hopelessly in love with each other but utterly clueless about it?" Badgerstar hummed, with a nod, fond and nostalgic smile on his face as he thought back to their early moons together.
"Things have changed," he said, after a while, "some things for the better and some things for the worst, obviously. But... I'm glad that we figured it out, eventually, even if it took us a little more time than it should have in the first place. But we're together now, and that's what's important. That, and the fact that I'm not planning on leaving you any time soon."
"Good," Maplefall purred, "if you somehow loose- what- five lives in one fell swoop, I'm going to come to StarClan and kick your furry behind myself, mister." Badgerstar laughed, ducking his head to press his forehead against the back of her neck.
"That's fair, and I believe you could do it." They fell quiet, watching as the sun got lower and lower, sky turning red against orange clouds. Wind rustled peacefully through the trees, blowing the earthen scent so characteristic of GroveClan against Badgerstar's nose. He closed his eyes, inhaling deeply. After a moment, he opened them again, to find Maplefall looking at him curiously. He smiled back at her, warmly. "Red sky at night is a delight, they say. Looks like the weather will be good tomorrow, maybe we can come back to the lake again. I'm sure everyone would like another day of just swimming and playing."
"I want to have more kits," Maplefall said, making Badgerstar blink at how sudden it was. She looked away, obviously a little embarrassed. "Sorry. You just look so handsome right now and I... I love you very much, and I'm so proud of you and how much you've come into your own. I thought losing Twilightkit would break us, but we've weathered that storm and every other one we've faced, and it's moment like this when I'm alone with you, and everything is peaceful, that I think about how much I adore you, and how much I want our family to grow."
"You never have to apologize to me, Maplefall, not for that." He pressed his nose to her cheek. "Are you sure? It won't be hard to find a replacement mentor for Cherrypaw. I'm sure Roseclaw or Pinefeather would be happy to mentor him. I just... if you want to wait-"
"No," Maplefall said firmly, eyes glittering with happiness, "we always talked about a big family, and that's still what I want. More kits to cherish, more siblings for our eldest kits, and I want to see that look in your eyes that you get when you see our newborn kits for the first time. It's one of my favourite looks in the world." Badgerstar laughed softly, pressing their foreheads together.
"Okay then. Let's grow this clan."
β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬β¬
β¦ servings consumed
14/14 - x10 mice and x2 rabbits
β¦ clan events
bramblekit must wait a moon before he becomes an apprentice
all medicine cats practice medicine
all apprentices excepting those on patrol learn to swim
badgerstar and maplefall try for kits
quailberry and hazelskip use x2 rock and x2 moss to upgrade the warrior's den
mod note; accidentally aged badgerstar up two moons a couple posts ago,
so i didn't age him this post to right that, sorry :x
β¦ patrols
hunting -
1 - pinefeather, roseclaw, burningcloud, meadowfang, harepuddle, kererucall
2 - fawnrunner, ripplemist, elkbounce, deerstripe, halfpond, emberwing
3 - hawkthorn, sandcatcher, ternflutter, avocetnose, sparkfur, frostbranch
4 - shadowtail, dustfang, falcongaze, sleetbreeze, cormorantpath, willowthroat
5 - harrierstreak, featherpelt, fircloud, cinderdawn, thunderspark, juniperstorm
border -
1 - dusklight, novella, adderstorm, dustfang, oakback, sedgefire
supplies -
1 - dawnblossom, burrcall, stonepatch, brackenpaw, thicketpaw, thornpaw
- leader: [1/1]
badgerstar | 57 moons | β | π·
Lives: β β β β β β°β°β°β°
deputy:
lionheart | 78 moons | β | π·
medicine cat: [3/3]
goldleaf | 79 moons | β | π· - 5sp
spidernose | 52 moons | β | π· - 5sp
apprentice:
mousestone | 36 moons | β | π· - 5sp
warriors: [58/60]
flintburr | 93 moons | β | π·
maplefall | 53 moons | β | π·
hawkthorn | 67 moons | β | π·
shadowtail | 67 moons | β | π·
acornstream | 67 moons | β | π·
dustfang | 72 moons | β | π·
ashenstrike | 78 moons | β | π·
stonepatch | 54 moons | β | π·
fawnrunner | 53 moons | β | π·
harrierstreak | 45 moons | β | π·
longriver | 43 moons | β | π·
boulderflame | 41 moons | β | π·
burrcall | 41 moons | β | π·
roseclaw | 89 moons | β | π·
sootface | 61 moons | β | π·
pinefeather | 87 moons | β | π·
dawnblossom | 35 moons | β | π·
dusklight | 35 moons | β | π·
novella | 35 moons | β | π·
halfpond | 39 moons | β | π·
sedgefire | 39 moons | β | π·
willowthroat | 45 moons | β | π·
grouseclaw | 45 moons | β | π·
wolverinejaw | 42 moons | β | π·
burningcloud | 74 moons | β | π·
meadowfang | 74 moons | β | π·
woodbloom | 31 moons | β | π·
squirrelwhisker | 31 moons | β | π·
featherpelt | 79 moons | β | π·
adderstorm | 30 moons | β | π·
archibald | 35 moons | β | π·
fircloud | 91 moons | β | π·
rivuletflight | 39 moons | β | π·
silvermoon | 76 moons | β | π·
ripplemist | 33 moons | β | π·
frostbranch | 33 moons | β | π·
cormorantpath | 30 moons | β | π·
sparkfur | 30 moons | β | π·
sandcatcher | 24 moons | β | π·
avocetnose | 23 moons | β | π·
ternflutter | 23 moons | β | π·
elkbounce | 22 moons | β | π·
thunderspark| 22 moons | β | π·
mistcreek | 22 moons | β | π·
deerstripe | 22 moons | β | π·
juniperstorm | 22 moons | β | π·
midnightstream | 22 moons | β | π·
harepuddle | 49 moons | β | π·
kererucall | 81 moons | β | π·
emberwing | 21 moons | β | π·
falcongaze | 17 moons | β | π·
cinderdawn | 17 moons | β | π·
sleetbreeze | 17 moons | β | π·
oakback | 17 moons | β | π·
hazelskip | 16 moons | β | π·
quailberry | 16 moons | β | π·
riverbubble | 56 moons | β | π·
apprentices: [19/20]
russetpaw | 10 moons | β | π·
eveningpaw | 10 moons | β | π·
frecklepaw | 10 moons | β | π·
morningpaw | 10 moons | β | π·
crowpaw | 9 moons | β | π·
ravenpaw | 9 moons | β | π·
starlingpaw | 9 moons | β | π·
tuipaw | 9 moons | β | π·
lilacpaw | 9 moons | β | π·
lavenderpaw | 9 moons | β | π·
fernpaw | 8 moons | β | π·
cherrypaw | 8 moons | β | π·
pitchpaw | 8 moons | β | π·
mottlepaw | 8 moons | β | π·
pebblepaw | 8 moons | β | π·
flamepaw | 8 moons | β |π·
brackenpaw | 6 moons | β | π·
thornpaw | 6 moons | β | π·
thicketpaw | 6 moons | β | π·
queens: [2/15]
flowershine | 44 moons | β | π·
kits:
bramblekit | 6 moons | β | π·
elders: [1/5]
fallowshimmer | 142 moons | β | π·
inventory wrote:medicine store;
catmint [2] | greencough
chervil [5] | wounds/aches
marigold [5] | wounds
tansy [2] | coughs
goldenrod [5] | wounds
catchweed [3] | poultices
poppy seeds [3] | pain
cobwebs [5] | bleeding
fennel [6] | pain
raspberry leaves [5] | kitting
ragwort leaves [4] | strength
alder bark [1] | toothache
beech leaves [1] | use ???
chickweed [9] | coughs
parsley [1] | bellyache
rosemary [1] | burial
willow bark [1] | pain
bindweed [1] | binds sticks
blackberry leaves [1] | bee stings
borage leaves [1] | milk
bright-eye [1] | cures coughs
burdock [1] | infections
broom [2] | breaks/wounds
burnet [4] | strength
celandine [4] | eye infections
horsetail [1] | stops bleeding
oak leaves [1] | stops infection
comfrey root [1] | wounds
daisy leaves [1] | aching joints
dock [1] | soothes scratches
chamomile [1] | strength
cob nuts [1] | unknown
coltsfoot [1] | breathing
dandelion [1] | bee stings
elder leaves [1] | sprains
feverfew [1] | fever/headache
goatweed [1] | eases grief
hawkweed [1] | greencough
heather nectar [1] | sweetner
honey [1] | soothes throats
ivy leaves [1] | unknown
juniper berries [1] | bellyaches
lamb's ear [1] | strength
lavender [1] | fever/chills
lovage [1] | unknown
lungwort [1] | yellowcough
mallow leaves [1] | bellyache
mint [1] | scenting
mouse bile [1] | kills ticks
rush [1] | breaks
sorrel [1] | traveling herb
fresh-kill pile;
mouse | x9| 1 servings [9]
vole | x0 | 1 servings [0]
rabbit | x10 | 2 servings [20]
bird | x12 | 3 servings [36]
fish | x12 | 2 servings [24]
squirrel | x12 | 2 servings [24]
hare | x10 | 3 servings [30]
capacity: 143 servings (10 posts)
den materials;
twigs [0]
feathers [0]
moss [1]
leaves [2]
rock [3]
mud [2]
relationships wrote:mentors;
midnightstream | russetpaw [3]
βͺ hunt, stalk, climb
acornstream | frecklepaw [3]
βͺ hunt, stalk, climb
woodbloom | morningpaw [2]
βͺ hunt, battle
boulderflame | eveningpaw [3]
βͺ hunt, stalk, climb
longriver | crowpaw [2]
βͺ hunt, battle
riverbubble | ravenpaw [3]
βͺ hunt, battle, track
badgerstar | starlingpaw [2]
βͺ hunt, battle
sootface | tuipaw [3]
βͺ hunt, battle, track
silvermoon | lilacpaw [3]
βͺ hunt, battle, track
archibald | lavenderpaw [3]
βͺ hunt, battle, track
flintburr | fernpaw [1]
βͺ hunt
maplefall | cherrypaw [1]
βͺ hunt
ashenstrike | pitchpaw [1]
βͺ hunt
rivuletflight | mottlepaw [1]
βͺ hunt
squirrelwhisker | pebblepaw [1]
βͺ hunt
lionheart | flamepaw [1]
βͺ hunt
dawnblossom | brackenpaw [0]
βͺ skills
burrcall | thornpaw [0]
βͺ skills
stonepatch | thicketpaw [0]
βͺ skills
deceased cats;
twilightkit ; murdered by dante
redrunner ; heart failure/age
family/mates;
flintburr β₯ silvermoon
βͺ halfpond & sedgefire, crowpaw,
ravenpaw, starlingpaw, tuipaw
tawnycloud β‘ shrikecry
βͺ shadowtail & hawkthorn
dustfang β‘ tanglestep
βͺ boulderflame & burrcall
hawkthorn β₯ acornstream
βͺ squirrelwhisker, woodbloom,
hazelskip
ripplebound β‘ junipernose
βͺ dawnblossom & dusklight
eagleleap β‘ dewfeather
βͺ harrierstreak & mousestone
badgerstar β₯ maplefall
βͺ juniperstorm, midnightstream,
twilightkit; pitchpaw, mottlepaw,
pebblepaw & flamepaw
cherryflower β‘ frostjaw
βͺ roseclaw & lionheart
roseclaw β₯ pinefeather
βͺ russetpaw, morningpaw, frecklepaw &
eveningpaw (dappledwillow)
stonepatch β₯ fawnrunner
βͺ elkbounce, thunderspark, mistcreek
& deerstripe
longriver β₯ harrierstreak
featherpelt β‘ seneca
βͺ avocetnose & ternflutter
pigeoncall β‘ reedwhisper
βͺ grouseclaw & willowthroat
shadowtail β₯ dustfang
βͺ falcongaze, cinderdawn, sleetbreeze
& oakback
burningcloud β₯ meadowfang
mousestone β₯ novella
ashenstrike β₯ lionheart
βͺ fernpaw, cherrypaw
boulderflame β₯ flowershine
βͺ brackenpaw, bramblekit, thornpaw &
thicketpaw
woodbloom β₯ jayfur
βͺ dahliapaw, willowpaw, sparrowpaw,
twigpaw, wrenpaw, finchpaw (haze)
niobe β‘ lancer
βͺ novella & archibald
fircloud β‘ callie
βͺ rivuletflight
silvermoon β‘ whitefoot
βͺ ripplemist, frostbranch
burrcall β₯ willowthroat
harepuddle β‘ clovertail
βͺ quailberry
riverbubble β‘ erin
βͺ lilacpaw, lavenderpaw
dawnblossom β₯ halfpond
