⋆ CosmoClan ⋆
Cats: 102
Next SunJaw visit: Anytime
Amberowl had moved homes multiple times over her life.
First there was CloudClan, in the meadow surrounded by trees where she had been a kit, then there was the strange period of sleeping in the forest as she and her mentor Swiftsky, then Skystar, had hunted, looking for other members of CloudClan, missing their old home and still reeling from the war.
Next was CosmoClan, where she had received her warrior name through Lyrastar and settled down into a camp in the mysterious forest, making a few more friends that she wouldn't have made if she stayed in CloudClan, and also witnessing the rise of CosmoClan as well. Two moons ago there had been the horrible flood, killing Speckledleaf, Blacknose, Russetheart, Bramblingtuft and Shellrise, cats she still remembered coming into the clan and making friends with, and now the clan was settling down in the rockier parts of CosmoClan's territory, still reeling from the effects of flood.
The tortoiseshell she-cat observed the clan's camp, shadowed as the sun rose in the sky. Stone shone like polished silver in the bright light, highlighting the dens woven around rocks and dips and hanging over bits of rock.
Dens were still being worked out, but regardless it was coming together nicely. Dens were woven together with sticks and thorns like they always had been, only now done placed had more stones supporting the dens, as well as making a floor for the bottom of dens so if there was a flood, they would be carried away by a mat of sticks, stones, leaves and moss. A lot of rocks helped as well in creating shelter for their heads, or shelves for herbs. The dens were still made of sticks and adjusted to fit nature by being created under bushes or around rocks, with thorns and brambles that helped to protect the dens from damage. The dens were generally more sturdy on the cliff, as the strong rocks were unlikely to fall or collapse and the clan had learned from the flood. What the lacked in shelter for being at the edge of the cliff near the Sunjaw where there was less coverage above them, they had made up for in making dens strong and defensive against the weather by using the many stones around the cliff.
The center of the camp had the leader's den in the middle, but was a large space with the dens more around the edges of the camp to accommodate more cats in their big clan. Clumps of ferns grew around the camp and the space was big enough for the clan to train, and it wasn't too close to the cliff edge. They were in a safe place where their was more stone as the edge of territory rose into a mountain, but not too close to the cliff for any of the camp to crumble, and where there was still moderate coverage. It was a clearing that was very close to the Sunjaw, large enough for the expanding clan to gather and with enough space for the clan to enlarge dens. The ground was a mix of stone and soil, mostly stones where the ground started to slope and the edge of the cliff was outside of their camp, with enough soil for there to still be multiple trees and bushes for dens.
As the warriors den was quite big it was at the edge of the tree line, extending into the forest where there was more shelter. Big bushes flowered at the edge of the trees, so a cluster of them was easy enough for cats to make mossy nests underneath. The bushes grew close together so there was enough shelter, and it could easily be added to as the trees also grew close to the bushes as well, meaning that they could easily extend the warriors den to wind around the trees. It was a good place with enough coverage and large enough for every cat to have enough room under the bushes and various plants, and they would always be able to extend the den by using brambles, the various rocks of different sizes, and other natural resources.
The apprentices were closer to the cliff, making their nests in a cosy spot in-between two great slabs of rock that formed a wide bridge type area in the shape of an arch, providing shelter underneath the wide arch, large enough to shelter the apprentices, while providing shelter from the rain. Already the apprentices were making their own changes, using brambles and branches to give them more protection around the sides. It was a very useful place, providing entertainment for bored younger cats, helping apprentices with their climbing skills, giving the elders a place to enjoy the sun, and being an accessible place for the cats to sharpen their claws, and creating a place where water could run down so some cats could drink, along with its other purposes.
The leaders den was in a small cave or hollow type place, hollowed out many moons ago, judging by the hard smooth walls worn by time. It was in a large boulder with a big entrance at the front that also looked like it had been dug out by badgers or some kind of animal, but inside was nice and big, with lichen growing on top and ferns growing around the bottom.
The den for the Guardians where cats were healed and herbs were stored was under an impressive overhang. The overhang came out from the base of the mountain and provided easy shelter from the elements, as well as having space for herbs to be organised and for cats to stay underneath. A yew bush, large in size, stood at the entrance with space for the guardians to sleep under, with enough space for both two guardians and any future apprentices to rest. Moss grew at the end wall of the overhang, making it a natural blanket for ill cats to heal and sleep in. Herbs were stored in the far side of the end wall, on one of the small rock ledges where sunlight was able to reach them from the side of the overhang but with enough shadow for the herbs to not quickly dry out of for them to wither away in darkness. When it rained, water would drop from the overhang into a dip in the stone floor that collected enough water to be a small, easily accessible pool to drink from and soak herbs in. It was very resourceful for the needs of the clan. At the edge of the overhang, sheltered barely under the stone ceiling, was the fresh-kill pile, where the prey wouldn't get wet or be ruined by leaf-bare frosts and snow.
Heatherclaw had slept underneath a thornbush when she had come into the camp while the flood was happening, and now the queens had set up nearby her, soon dragging in brambles to surround the thornbush and creating the new nursery. A burrow that looked like it had been dug by a badger was just beside the thornbush, with the ground rising around the bush, so the queens had claimed the area as theirs and slept under the thornbush or in the multiple entrance tunnels of the burrow, never going too deep inside in case they got lost but rather staying in the entrance, with a section of tunnel to sleep in. Ferns and flowery shrubs also provided more places to rest as well in the same area. The burrows and tunnels were being blocked up a bit more so no kit could get lost in the tunnels with their many entrances conveniently made there by badgers and rabbits, and the tunnel entrances were being made wider for the queens and their kits. Brambles were also being threaded around the area, making sure no invaders (if there were any to their quiet corner of the territory) could snatch the kits; Amberowl knew how devastating it was to have siblings taken and she did not want anyone else to feel that pain, so she actively encouraged more protection was put on the nursery.
And last, the elders den. Tucked among the ferns so that it would be comfortable for aching joints and the delicate older generation, as well as being warm due to the cosiness of the place, it was a perfect place for the older cats to be protected. In the roots of a large towering oak tree that not only provided shade but also shelter, warm mossy nests were positioned comfortably in the roots. Twigs were woven around the roots, and leaves were spread out to provide more comfort. The same tactic for a twig flooring mat that floated in floods and provide ground protection in case of any rocks underneath was used here also, except more moss was woven around in the twigs to make it even more comfortable. An empty log was also next to the oak tree, large in size, was fortunately big enough so that cats could climb in through one of the large holes in the sides to sleep on the floor of the log instead, with moss also in the oak when it was colder, in times like this.
Amberowl was distracted as she admired the sunrise to see Badgerstrike clambering up to sit beside her, on the overhang. It wasn't necessarily hard to get up, but it was easier said than done as there were few footholds and steep rock with small ledges, but her CloudClan heritage had made her agile from living on the moor, while Badgerstrike had lived in forests his entire life and was only used to climbing trees rather than using speed.
Amberowl remembered the moons of travel she had when CloudClan disbanded, having to bound over logs and rivers to travel to CosmoClan, and was glad now to have found a home with a beautiful view and surroundings. On the cliffs there was more freedom because of the sky actually being seen, and she felt that Swiftsky and Emberblaze, former CloudClan members like her, also appreciated the open space of camp.
"Hi," Badgerstrike meowed, a little out of breath from his clumb but still glad to see Amberowl. She purred, and beckoned with her tail for him to take a seat. He obliged, and smiled at her. She smiled back, twining her tail with his as they saw the sunrise. "Hi," she meowed back, letting go of her thoughts about CloudClan to spend time with the tom. Isn't it beautiful?" she asked, staring into the bright golden sun as it rose over the camp, letting it warm her fur and put a glow into her eyes. "It is," Badgerstrike replied, following her gaze. His green eyes shone brightly in the light.
"Do you miss your old clan? Or even the old CosmoClan?" Badgerstrike said suddenly, still looking into the sun. Amberowl contemplated his question. "Of course I do. So much has changed from then." she paused, allowing her mind to wander into the past. "I miss CloudClan quite a lot. We were so happy there, but then..." she sighed, looking up, further into the sky, straining her eyes in an attempt to see beyond the horizon. "I remember it all so clearly, even though it was moons ago. Mintkit, and Smallkit and Hazelkit... We had so much fun messing around with River. I wonder where they are now, all of CloudClan, and hope that they are safe. Our paths may have separated but one day we will meet again." she felt like an elder as she said it, and more then ever she wished she could be there. The wistful expression on her face was enough to make Badgerstrike a little confused.
"I used to live in a clan named StormClan." Badgerstrike began, interrupting her daydream to go on about his own past. Amberowl listened, intrigued despite the distraction from her own thoughts. It wasn't often Badgerstrike talked about StormClan, though she knew that Hurricanegaze and Arrowfang had once lived there too as leader and deputy. Occasionally Hurricanegaze mentioned a cat named Petal Gaze, and then Arrowfang would talk a bit, but she didn't know much about it."We were far from here. I miss them. Everyone came from everywhere but it didn't matter, all of us got along. We were small, but strong. My name was originally Birch and I came from somewhere long, long away." he turned into the sun, his vivid green eyes drifting around the territory as his eyes traced the mountains and forests, filled with a fierce intensity despite his vague stare into the distance. "After Petal Gaze died, we were all a little lost. Clan life carried on though," he meowed, his voice soft, his head now lowered. "then there was the fire. I lost everyone as they scattered, and even Fox Claw or Mouse or Arrow Fang didn't say anything else to me as we all just fled. StarClan knows where most of them are now," Badgerstrike tailed off, continuing to stare at the ground.
Amberowl looked at him in dismay, surprised by the pain that went into his past. She had wondered about his previous life before the clan, and although his answer did not entirely answer she was intrigued. The tortoiseshell followed Badgerstrike's gaze at the floor, considering her old memories of those darker days when the clan was unsure, and Mintkit and Hazelkit were torn away from her. She didn't feel like talking much herself now, but she whispered gently, "I'm sorry about your clan," and she turned to leave the overhang, managing a large jump from the overhang to the floor.
Badgerstrike lifted his head up behind her, and got to his paws as well, scrabbling down the overhang with less agility then the she-cat. Softly he said, "I'm sorry about your clan too," slipping into a faster pace to match her pawsteps. The two cats gazed at each other in shared sadness over their lost clans, no words needed as Amberowl shared a look with him him of deep understanding. He twined her tail with his for a moment, and the two of them chose a rabbit to share as they watched the rest of the clan rise, thinking carefully about their old homes. They did not want to have this clan share the same fate of being blown to the wind, and would strive to protect it together. The memories shared on the overhang was enough to strengthen their bond, and no matter how painful the memories were, they were in CosmoClan and ready to help this clan to survive after the flood.
The day continued, and Solarspark woke up just before sunhigh, later then she would usually. There were a lot of changes from Solar Guardian to Elder, which included her daily tasks, even a change in her sleeping schedule.
The flood had been two moons ago, as all cats tried to forget, and the entire clan lost clanmates and friends. Many cats had been exhausted and all were worried afterwards about every issue the flood had caused for them, as well as struggles with the deaths of their clanmates. The clan had been changed by the flood, but one of the biggest changes was in the behaviour of the guardians. Featherfall seemed to be like the more senior of what had been reduced to two, while Solarspark had left her role to recover, and Emberblaze was grieving for Speckledleaf and Blossomfur, his daughter and mate; the flood had taken a toll on all of them in many ways.
The flood had been one thing, but when pushing out of camp like most cats had with precious herbs in her jaws, a careless knock from many strong warriors as they all changed paths to avoid the rising waters had sent her straight into the strong bark of a tree, which she had met with pain. Solarspark remembered it clearly as she had been thrown against the tree, her side exploding with pain as she felt her body rattle with the impact and the pressure from many cats surrounding her, caught up in their panic. It had shaken her deeply, but with it, her lungs had been damaged, and she had trouble being able to see clearly through the sudden haze of the injury. The ginger Solar Guardian had vague memories of being nudged to her paws, cries echoing down from the trees and a blur of pelts and colours as she had been coaxed through the forest, multiple cats, maybe just one or two supporting either side of her, as cats yowled all around them. Most of the flood had been in darkness to her as she had closed her eyes to block out the pain of her injury, but she had known that she had been taken to what was the new cliff camp and of a surge of panic from the clan.
She had opened her eyes to see the cliffs around her as she had been sheltered under an overhang. Every cat in the clan was under the overhang, and mews had sounded all around from Solarspark. As soon as her eyes had opened the ginger Solar Guardian had felt like a kit opening her eyes for the first time, this part of the territory new to her. The she-cat had not often patrolled where the new clan camp was, but recognised the area from visits to the Sunjaw. Emberblaze had been staring ahead, looking blankly at nothing, and Featherfall seemed to be watching over the clan using her nose, ears and touch, but when both of the cats noticed she had opened her eyes they ran over, diverting the attention of the clan from themselves and their peers to her.
Every cat was staring at her, and for a moment the she-cat had wished she could swap places with Featherfall, with blind eyes that could not see such curious stares all directed towards her. "What's going on?" the ginger she-cat had croaked, wincing at the rasp in her voice and the sudden surprise that came from the Guardians. Emberblaze's vacant gaze focused on her, and he rasped, "How are you feeling?" avoiding her question entirely and bringing to Solarspark's attention that something was definitely wrong. It wasn't just the flood that had taken a toll on him as much as any cat, but he was dismal and distracted as he had been when Blossomfur had died after the badger attack many moons ago. "She should try not to talk," Featherfall told him sharply, glancing towards the gathering of queens in the warmest part of the den. "I-" Solarspark been to splutter, before a cough had wracked her body. "Rest, Solarspark, please," Featherfall meowed gently, touching the ginger she-cat's side with her tail in a comforting manner. The white she-cat then began to bring her up to date with the clan from what had happened, the younger Solar Guardian's maturity in the situation bringing a spark of pride to Solarspark.
Robinrise suddenly let out a yowl of distress, and Featherfall turned to leave, but Solarspark touched her flank with her tail. "I'm proud of you Featherfall. You've progressed so well and overcome every challenge that has come to you," she rasped, in happiness. Featherfall turned again, a smile on her lips, before she left to help the clan. Solarspark couldn't help noticing the innocent surprise that had showed Featherfall rather than any arrogance, and knew her apprentice had progressed a lot from originally not wanting to become a Solar Guardian, and resenting the role. Featherfall had adjusted very well, and Solarspark knew she would have to as well to face the changes in the situation.
The elder returned to the present as Eaglefrost shuffled into the den sorrowfully, his tail and paws dragging across the ground with every weary step. After Russetheart and Greystone had died he had instantly become an unrecognisable, miserable cat that was so unlike the tom's usual quick-witted mind and barbed tongue. As Solarspark was beginning to know very well, elders had to tell stories to kits or at least entertain younger cats, but like Emberblaze, the tom was wearily going about his life, almost fading away. He and Russetheart had been close friends, but the rest of the elders wouldn't be a good enough substitute for the two sharp she-cats, always appearing so wise and respected.
Petalfang was sharing a large, plump pigeon with Wimbrelpelt and Harrierflight, not really saying anything, but occasionally attempting to start a conversation. They too were affected deeply by the losses of Greystone and Russetheart, having also been good friends with the two departed elders. They had risen more quickly from the deaths then Eaglefrost, but still seemed forlorn, less talkative and no longer talking to all the clan cats but staying in their tight knit group. This left Solarspark to be an outsider to the elders, as well as Spider.
Having been a more recent arrival to the clan, Spider wasn't as used to clans unlike the rest of the elders, most of whom had their families grow up in the old CosmoClan before it had been refounded by Emberblaze, Blossomfur and Lyrastar. The elders who had joined the clan before Spider told stories of being young warriors when the previous version of the clan had collapsed (these stories were rarely heard now, but with a chill, Solarspark remembered it too had something to do with a flood), with only the exception of Russetheart, who had come from a rogue group moons before when CosmoClan had helped a group to find new land. The black tom may have not been spoken to by his fellow clanmates as much, due to being less experienced with the clan, but rather than offering wisdom, the tom was great at telling wild stories of badgers and foxes, leaving even senior warriors listening in in wonder. Not only that, but Spider definitely had more humour then most of the elders, and being more detached from the main group of elders, he was more light-hearted upon the deaths of multiple clanmates, understanding the pain of grief but generally being more cheerful, and helping cats look past the losses to their clanmates and helping them as well. Solarspark and Spider swapped stories and had conversations, but even so the elders den was a cold place to be emotionally, with a dark cloud still over the cats there and an impact on all that came near, one of the sadness that had burdened the entire clan after the flood.
Solarspark sat in solitude now, her ears angling towards Wimbrelpelt, Harrierflight and Petalfang to catch any interesting snippets of information. Eaglefrost had sat in his nest now, his eyes closed but she could see his tail twitching to show that he was awake. Solarspark continued like this for a couple of moments, temporarily losing focus as she overheard Spider nearby the den talking to what sounded like the apprentices and sharing one of his stories, before hearing something of interest to her.
"After Greystone..." this was followed by a sigh from Petalfang, before she continued wearily, "When we were preparing for vigil at sunset, I saw a bright star where the sun was swallowed by the trees. It must have been a sign," the elder began, bringing all cats to attention in the den. Solarspark blinked, feeling like something had shifted in the air. She had felt the power of the stars when she had been a Solar Guardian, and even now she was ready to use the knowledge she had gained to help her clanmates, not matter what rank she was within the clan. Hearing of this Star was interesting, especially after the entire clan had noted a new constellation in the sky that showed the SpaceColony had accepted the dead. Was it a sign that Greystone was watching over them now, or something more? Whatever it was, Solarspark was interested in this star the white and grey elder had mentioned.
"Do you know what the star could mean?" Solarspark asked, her paws itching to leave the den and see it. The cats looked towards her in what seemed like surprise as if they had only just noticed her presence, but all of them knew she still had the abilities of a Solar Guardian, including interpreting signs. Energy flowed through her like a wave, and suddenly the den felt too small to contain it. She jumped to her paws, then winced as she felt a small lace of pain through her side. Being careful was certainly a priority now, but excitement had taken hold of her. The clan wanted a sign about the current situation, like a guide to finding and chasing out the dog scented on their territory and the illness that had affected Lyrastar, Ebonypool and Birchkit, as well as poor Shellrise and Greystone, and Solarspark knew this would be good."Tell me, please!" she pleaded, upon seeing the slow reaction of her peers.
"I can show you Solarspark. Any cat can see it in the sky, and I'll let you to find the meaning yourself." Petalfang meowed, her eyes bright with hope. Eaglefrost opened his eyes, and Solarspark was happy to see that they held renewed strength, but even so, when he spoke he still seemed miserable. "Russetheart and Speckledleaf have their vigils tonight," Eaglefrost meowed slowly, his thin frame tense. "When a patrol visited the forest camp they were able to recover them, and tonight we will hold their vigils to properly send them to the SpaceColony," he continued, his voice growing in strength until he seemed like a younger cat. "This new star will watch over us and show us what to do next, and Speckledleaf and Russetheart will find their peace with the stars." The tom got to his paws and started to groom his ruffled pelt. To know that their clanmates would find peace was enough for him to be happier, and Solarspark noticed the immediate change in her companions as the tom perked up. Petalfang purred, her amber eyes sparkling with a newfound happiness. "I'm glad to see you happy, you old badger," she teased gently.
Sunset approached, and as it did, the clan came together to mourn for their lost clanmates. The entire clan was ready to send off their clanmates to the SpaceColony, glad that they would find peace at last, and with it, some of the sorrow from the flood would be lost as well. Solarspark sat near the edge of the camp with Petalfang, Eaglefrost, Harrierflight, Wimbrelpelt and Spider, their eyes fixed on the sky. As the sun fell, the stars because more apparent, and soon Harrierflight's pelt fluffed up with excitement. "There it is! Beside the sun!" Indeed, the SpaceColony's warrior was there in the sky, brighter then most of the stars. Solarspark observed, and once again she felt her old energy flowing through her limbs at the excitement of it. The star twinkled alone, distant from the other stars like it didn't mind being on the edge, but keeping a more watchful eye on the clan as one of the first to appear in the night sky. Solarspark looked into the light of the dying sun, and in the depths of the edge of the sky and the star, she saw changes to be made to the clan. It wasn't just a sign of change, but a sign of hope, and that CosmoClan was being watched by their ancestors after the flood. CosmoClan's constellation glimmered into view as well, and without looking around her Solarspark knew the clan was watching the stars as well.
A ripple of calm spread through CosmoClan, a time of reflection as the sun fell in the sky. Even though no cat seemed to be leading the ceremony for Speckledleaf and Russetheart right now, all cats could feel that there were no words to be said. Solarspark's whiskers were twitching as she picked up on the calm in the clan and the feel of a warming breeze.
She let the peaceful feeling grip her for what felt like nine lifetimes, and then the feeling of eyes upon her pelt. It was Dawnkit. The kit's eyes glimmered with knowledge, and Solarspark had an eerie feeling that she too had picked up on the sign the SpaceColony was giving her. The fur across her spine rippled as she observed Dawnkit as well, elder and kit locking gazes. The young she-cat nodded. She understood the star, and Solarspark wondered how far her connection stretched with the SpaceColony, especially after the kit had told the guardians of hearing the SpaceColony, knowledge that had then been shared with her.
Eyes flicked to the medicine den. Three bundles of fur were curled up at the end of the den. Lyrastar would not be governing the ceremony, especially as she was ill. Solarspark thought she had detected the leader's too bright eyes glimmer in the darkness, but was unsure even so until she heard a rasping cough, and three pairs of weary eyes upon them. To know that their leader was watching encouraged Solarspark, and she nodded to her fellow elders, joy sparkling through her. The StarColony was with them, and this make Solarspark feel as though she wanted to soar through the stars.
Emberblaze came to the center of the camp with Swiftsky behind him, the two toms exchanging a glance. Emberblaze swallowed, nodding to his former leader. "You know what to do," the white tom whispered, taking a step back to join his clan, taking a glance to the medicine den where his mate was ill. Emberblaze felt a shiver, and looked around to see many glittering eyes. Courage was brought to him as he saw Flamewing flicking her tail towards the stars, and Emberblaze looked up. The clan still remembered Blossomfur, although she had passed many moons ago, and with the grief over their clanmates old sadness was being reawakened. Emberblaze was holding this ceremony tonight in honour of her and other lost clanmates, including his daughter Speckledleaf.
Emberblaze rose to stand on a large rock in the center of the crowd, the stars shimmering above them in the clear night sky, and in a solemn voice, he began the ceremony. His shoulders were hunched and the tom was aware of his ruffled pelt, but he stood firmly. "Two moons ago, CosmoClan was impacted by the flood. With it the flood has brought a great deal of change to our lives," he meowed, the memory of shocked yowls and ruffling pelts in his mind. With a pause to reflect and think of what to say, Emberblaze then continued, "our clan has survived this tragedy with the strength of the stars beside us, but even so, despite our perseverance in the darkest times, we have lost clanmates to the flood." Emberblaze paused, bowing his head and closing his eyes before looking upwards, with the brilliance of the cosmos reflecting in his eyes. CosmoClan has been affected deeply by this disaster, with friends and family lost, but we must now know that our deceased clanmates are at rest, which is why we are gathered here tonight." the tom wrapped his tail neatly round his paws, them looked towards the bodies of Russetheart and Speckledleaf that lay in the clearing. "May we remember Russetheart and Speckledleaf for the lives they dedicated to their clan, and that they will find rest with the stars. They are gone, but," Emberblaze said with a slight shake to his voice, "we will treasure the times and memories we have shared with them, and that w-we would like them to know that they have loving friends and family who will always remember them." the tortoiseshell tom was quite overcome with emotion, his eyes glistening with sadness as he looked down upon Russetheart and Speckledleaf. Russetheart and he may not have been close but he had admired her wisdom and how she had given herself to her clan. Speckledleaf was his beloved daughter, and he could never forget her kindness and generosity from when she had been a kit, which she had always expressed towards anyone else in the clan. He could not forget her resilience after when she had become a warrior so soon after Blossomfur's death, and he knew that her spirit would forever be treasured in the clan, through memory and through her kits, three young cats who showed the same hope and kindness as his daughter had.
The tom continued, regaining his power over his emotions as his mind cleared of uncertainty. To lose Blossomfur and Speckledleaf would forever impact him, but for the clan Emberblaze had to be strong. They would not forget any of the cats who had lost their lives, and he had to remind every cat. "Multiple lives have been lost since CosmoClan was created from the ashes by Lyrastar, and we must remember them. Cedarsun, Tawnyheart, Blossomfur, Joaquin, Speckledleaf, Shellrise, Bramblingtuft, Blacknose, Russetheart and Greystone will always be known to us as cats who we shall not forget, and under the stars, we know that they are watching us and ready to guide our pawsteps." Taking a shaky breath, Emberblaze jumped down from the rock.
Aspenleaf nodded, the fur along her spine ruffling. Flamewing gave him a small heartwarming smile, light returning to her eyes. Lionscorch and Yewheart looked up to the stars, and Thunderbird, Bearfoot and their kits bowed their heads, pelts pressed close as comfort to be close by siblings. Whitefoot and Sycamoreheart exchanged quiet words and the elders watched the skies, and the many stars above them. The entire clan was understanding his words and accepting them.
There was no pain, only calm acceptance that lightened Emberblaze's pawsteps as he sat vigil for the elder and his daughter. Speckledleaf was able to rest properly with the ceremony join the stars. He could imagine she was sitting with Blossomfur now, and as he began the vigil, he knew they would be up there, watching over Flamewing and him.
[The floods have nearly died down completely, leaving large puddles across the territory. The warm weather is helping to dry up the remainder of the water, but the damage is still there]
[Hurricanegaze, Herontalon, Sycamoreheart, Whitefoot, Birdlight and Dustfeather hunt, scouring the trees and higher ground]
[Flamewing, Fawnshine, Goldenwhisker, Magpietail, Lilypad and Badgerstrike hunt near the cliff and on high ground]
[Lionscorch, Yewheart, Arrowfang, Verglas-strike, Wisteriawhisper, Mosstooth and patrol, searching for the dog to chase it out of the territory]
[Wolfclaw, Thornstride, Bearfoot, Stonestep, Doestripe and Raccoontooth patrol, ready to serve as a back up patrol to help drive out the dogs.]
[Acorntuft and Harerise train: Climbing]
[Thornstride and Cherryrise train: Stealth]
[Oliveshadow and Ternrise train: Fishing]
[Willowthroat and Pinerise train: Swimming]
[Badgerstrike and Oakrise train: Swimming]
[Raccoontooth and Dapplerise train: Battle]
[Stonestep and Robinrise train: Swimming]
[Fernshade and Seedrise train: Hunting]
[Leafpounce and Roserise train: Hunting]
[Briarsweep and Blossomrise train: Battle]
[Daisystream and Sunrise train: Stealth]
[Larksoar and Rookrise train: Battle]
[Emberblaze, Thunderbird and Swiftsky search for Catmint and their substitutes]
[Featherfall, Fernshade and Juniperberry search for strength giving herbs]
[Solarspark, Oliveshadow and Yewheart look for Juniper berries and fever relieving herbs. Solarspark is careful of her asthma and makes sure not to overexert herself]
[Emberblaze and Featherfall are now trying their hardest to save the sick cats. The better weather and conditions are helping them, but the heat also means that they are more feverish.]
[Lyrastar has lost a life from greencough, leaving her weakened but able to recover better with help from the StarColony, leaving her to only need rest and to regain her strength. However, she is now on her last life]
[Birchkit holds off death for now, but is weakened by developing whitecough symptoms that may progress to greencough. Dawnkit seems to believe that he will be recovering, but nothing is certain at this stage.]
[Ebonypool is now diagnosed with greencough, and the guardians are careful with her condition, making sure she is watched over at all times]
[All three cats are given 3x Lamb's Ear to give them strength, and Ebonypool and Birchkit are given 1x Borage Leaves and 1x Lavender to help their fevers.]
[As Solarspark is recovering from the flood's impact, she is beginning to be considered to be moved back as a Solar Guardian. As their leader is weakened the decision is still considered, but Solarspark will have asthma as a life long condition, along with the effects of her injury still coming up]
[The guardians have seen the star, and take it as a sign of hope from a CosmoClan cat who has died recently. They also take it as a sign of change, but it is still be be discussed properly when they have more time. The elders discuss it as well, and Solarspark comes to the same conclusion as the current guardians, as well as a sign that the StarColony is still watching them closely]
[Both Emberblaze and Flamewing have found peace after the ceremony for their dead clanmates. Only Flamewing carries anger after the death of her sister, which could lead for trouble for the clan]
[The clan consumes seventeen servings]
Sorry for the previous trouble, but the two images are working now! Thank you! The only other thing I want to say is that concerning medical abilities with herbs, should it be specified who has skills with them? Blazeheart, Fernshade and Juniperberry are all former medicine cats, so I want to know if they would retain their abilities.
Cats: 102
Next SunJaw visit: Anytime
Amberowl had moved homes multiple times over her life.
First there was CloudClan, in the meadow surrounded by trees where she had been a kit, then there was the strange period of sleeping in the forest as she and her mentor Swiftsky, then Skystar, had hunted, looking for other members of CloudClan, missing their old home and still reeling from the war.
Next was CosmoClan, where she had received her warrior name through Lyrastar and settled down into a camp in the mysterious forest, making a few more friends that she wouldn't have made if she stayed in CloudClan, and also witnessing the rise of CosmoClan as well. Two moons ago there had been the horrible flood, killing Speckledleaf, Blacknose, Russetheart, Bramblingtuft and Shellrise, cats she still remembered coming into the clan and making friends with, and now the clan was settling down in the rockier parts of CosmoClan's territory, still reeling from the effects of flood.
The tortoiseshell she-cat observed the clan's camp, shadowed as the sun rose in the sky. Stone shone like polished silver in the bright light, highlighting the dens woven around rocks and dips and hanging over bits of rock.
Dens were still being worked out, but regardless it was coming together nicely. Dens were woven together with sticks and thorns like they always had been, only now done placed had more stones supporting the dens, as well as making a floor for the bottom of dens so if there was a flood, they would be carried away by a mat of sticks, stones, leaves and moss. A lot of rocks helped as well in creating shelter for their heads, or shelves for herbs. The dens were still made of sticks and adjusted to fit nature by being created under bushes or around rocks, with thorns and brambles that helped to protect the dens from damage. The dens were generally more sturdy on the cliff, as the strong rocks were unlikely to fall or collapse and the clan had learned from the flood. What the lacked in shelter for being at the edge of the cliff near the Sunjaw where there was less coverage above them, they had made up for in making dens strong and defensive against the weather by using the many stones around the cliff.
The center of the camp had the leader's den in the middle, but was a large space with the dens more around the edges of the camp to accommodate more cats in their big clan. Clumps of ferns grew around the camp and the space was big enough for the clan to train, and it wasn't too close to the cliff edge. They were in a safe place where their was more stone as the edge of territory rose into a mountain, but not too close to the cliff for any of the camp to crumble, and where there was still moderate coverage. It was a clearing that was very close to the Sunjaw, large enough for the expanding clan to gather and with enough space for the clan to enlarge dens. The ground was a mix of stone and soil, mostly stones where the ground started to slope and the edge of the cliff was outside of their camp, with enough soil for there to still be multiple trees and bushes for dens.
As the warriors den was quite big it was at the edge of the tree line, extending into the forest where there was more shelter. Big bushes flowered at the edge of the trees, so a cluster of them was easy enough for cats to make mossy nests underneath. The bushes grew close together so there was enough shelter, and it could easily be added to as the trees also grew close to the bushes as well, meaning that they could easily extend the warriors den to wind around the trees. It was a good place with enough coverage and large enough for every cat to have enough room under the bushes and various plants, and they would always be able to extend the den by using brambles, the various rocks of different sizes, and other natural resources.
The apprentices were closer to the cliff, making their nests in a cosy spot in-between two great slabs of rock that formed a wide bridge type area in the shape of an arch, providing shelter underneath the wide arch, large enough to shelter the apprentices, while providing shelter from the rain. Already the apprentices were making their own changes, using brambles and branches to give them more protection around the sides. It was a very useful place, providing entertainment for bored younger cats, helping apprentices with their climbing skills, giving the elders a place to enjoy the sun, and being an accessible place for the cats to sharpen their claws, and creating a place where water could run down so some cats could drink, along with its other purposes.
The leaders den was in a small cave or hollow type place, hollowed out many moons ago, judging by the hard smooth walls worn by time. It was in a large boulder with a big entrance at the front that also looked like it had been dug out by badgers or some kind of animal, but inside was nice and big, with lichen growing on top and ferns growing around the bottom.
The den for the Guardians where cats were healed and herbs were stored was under an impressive overhang. The overhang came out from the base of the mountain and provided easy shelter from the elements, as well as having space for herbs to be organised and for cats to stay underneath. A yew bush, large in size, stood at the entrance with space for the guardians to sleep under, with enough space for both two guardians and any future apprentices to rest. Moss grew at the end wall of the overhang, making it a natural blanket for ill cats to heal and sleep in. Herbs were stored in the far side of the end wall, on one of the small rock ledges where sunlight was able to reach them from the side of the overhang but with enough shadow for the herbs to not quickly dry out of for them to wither away in darkness. When it rained, water would drop from the overhang into a dip in the stone floor that collected enough water to be a small, easily accessible pool to drink from and soak herbs in. It was very resourceful for the needs of the clan. At the edge of the overhang, sheltered barely under the stone ceiling, was the fresh-kill pile, where the prey wouldn't get wet or be ruined by leaf-bare frosts and snow.
Heatherclaw had slept underneath a thornbush when she had come into the camp while the flood was happening, and now the queens had set up nearby her, soon dragging in brambles to surround the thornbush and creating the new nursery. A burrow that looked like it had been dug by a badger was just beside the thornbush, with the ground rising around the bush, so the queens had claimed the area as theirs and slept under the thornbush or in the multiple entrance tunnels of the burrow, never going too deep inside in case they got lost but rather staying in the entrance, with a section of tunnel to sleep in. Ferns and flowery shrubs also provided more places to rest as well in the same area. The burrows and tunnels were being blocked up a bit more so no kit could get lost in the tunnels with their many entrances conveniently made there by badgers and rabbits, and the tunnel entrances were being made wider for the queens and their kits. Brambles were also being threaded around the area, making sure no invaders (if there were any to their quiet corner of the territory) could snatch the kits; Amberowl knew how devastating it was to have siblings taken and she did not want anyone else to feel that pain, so she actively encouraged more protection was put on the nursery.
And last, the elders den. Tucked among the ferns so that it would be comfortable for aching joints and the delicate older generation, as well as being warm due to the cosiness of the place, it was a perfect place for the older cats to be protected. In the roots of a large towering oak tree that not only provided shade but also shelter, warm mossy nests were positioned comfortably in the roots. Twigs were woven around the roots, and leaves were spread out to provide more comfort. The same tactic for a twig flooring mat that floated in floods and provide ground protection in case of any rocks underneath was used here also, except more moss was woven around in the twigs to make it even more comfortable. An empty log was also next to the oak tree, large in size, was fortunately big enough so that cats could climb in through one of the large holes in the sides to sleep on the floor of the log instead, with moss also in the oak when it was colder, in times like this.
Amberowl was distracted as she admired the sunrise to see Badgerstrike clambering up to sit beside her, on the overhang. It wasn't necessarily hard to get up, but it was easier said than done as there were few footholds and steep rock with small ledges, but her CloudClan heritage had made her agile from living on the moor, while Badgerstrike had lived in forests his entire life and was only used to climbing trees rather than using speed.
Amberowl remembered the moons of travel she had when CloudClan disbanded, having to bound over logs and rivers to travel to CosmoClan, and was glad now to have found a home with a beautiful view and surroundings. On the cliffs there was more freedom because of the sky actually being seen, and she felt that Swiftsky and Emberblaze, former CloudClan members like her, also appreciated the open space of camp.
"Hi," Badgerstrike meowed, a little out of breath from his clumb but still glad to see Amberowl. She purred, and beckoned with her tail for him to take a seat. He obliged, and smiled at her. She smiled back, twining her tail with his as they saw the sunrise. "Hi," she meowed back, letting go of her thoughts about CloudClan to spend time with the tom. Isn't it beautiful?" she asked, staring into the bright golden sun as it rose over the camp, letting it warm her fur and put a glow into her eyes. "It is," Badgerstrike replied, following her gaze. His green eyes shone brightly in the light.
"Do you miss your old clan? Or even the old CosmoClan?" Badgerstrike said suddenly, still looking into the sun. Amberowl contemplated his question. "Of course I do. So much has changed from then." she paused, allowing her mind to wander into the past. "I miss CloudClan quite a lot. We were so happy there, but then..." she sighed, looking up, further into the sky, straining her eyes in an attempt to see beyond the horizon. "I remember it all so clearly, even though it was moons ago. Mintkit, and Smallkit and Hazelkit... We had so much fun messing around with River. I wonder where they are now, all of CloudClan, and hope that they are safe. Our paths may have separated but one day we will meet again." she felt like an elder as she said it, and more then ever she wished she could be there. The wistful expression on her face was enough to make Badgerstrike a little confused.
"I used to live in a clan named StormClan." Badgerstrike began, interrupting her daydream to go on about his own past. Amberowl listened, intrigued despite the distraction from her own thoughts. It wasn't often Badgerstrike talked about StormClan, though she knew that Hurricanegaze and Arrowfang had once lived there too as leader and deputy. Occasionally Hurricanegaze mentioned a cat named Petal Gaze, and then Arrowfang would talk a bit, but she didn't know much about it."We were far from here. I miss them. Everyone came from everywhere but it didn't matter, all of us got along. We were small, but strong. My name was originally Birch and I came from somewhere long, long away." he turned into the sun, his vivid green eyes drifting around the territory as his eyes traced the mountains and forests, filled with a fierce intensity despite his vague stare into the distance. "After Petal Gaze died, we were all a little lost. Clan life carried on though," he meowed, his voice soft, his head now lowered. "then there was the fire. I lost everyone as they scattered, and even Fox Claw or Mouse or Arrow Fang didn't say anything else to me as we all just fled. StarClan knows where most of them are now," Badgerstrike tailed off, continuing to stare at the ground.
Amberowl looked at him in dismay, surprised by the pain that went into his past. She had wondered about his previous life before the clan, and although his answer did not entirely answer she was intrigued. The tortoiseshell followed Badgerstrike's gaze at the floor, considering her old memories of those darker days when the clan was unsure, and Mintkit and Hazelkit were torn away from her. She didn't feel like talking much herself now, but she whispered gently, "I'm sorry about your clan," and she turned to leave the overhang, managing a large jump from the overhang to the floor.
Badgerstrike lifted his head up behind her, and got to his paws as well, scrabbling down the overhang with less agility then the she-cat. Softly he said, "I'm sorry about your clan too," slipping into a faster pace to match her pawsteps. The two cats gazed at each other in shared sadness over their lost clans, no words needed as Amberowl shared a look with him him of deep understanding. He twined her tail with his for a moment, and the two of them chose a rabbit to share as they watched the rest of the clan rise, thinking carefully about their old homes. They did not want to have this clan share the same fate of being blown to the wind, and would strive to protect it together. The memories shared on the overhang was enough to strengthen their bond, and no matter how painful the memories were, they were in CosmoClan and ready to help this clan to survive after the flood.
The day continued, and Solarspark woke up just before sunhigh, later then she would usually. There were a lot of changes from Solar Guardian to Elder, which included her daily tasks, even a change in her sleeping schedule.
The flood had been two moons ago, as all cats tried to forget, and the entire clan lost clanmates and friends. Many cats had been exhausted and all were worried afterwards about every issue the flood had caused for them, as well as struggles with the deaths of their clanmates. The clan had been changed by the flood, but one of the biggest changes was in the behaviour of the guardians. Featherfall seemed to be like the more senior of what had been reduced to two, while Solarspark had left her role to recover, and Emberblaze was grieving for Speckledleaf and Blossomfur, his daughter and mate; the flood had taken a toll on all of them in many ways.
The flood had been one thing, but when pushing out of camp like most cats had with precious herbs in her jaws, a careless knock from many strong warriors as they all changed paths to avoid the rising waters had sent her straight into the strong bark of a tree, which she had met with pain. Solarspark remembered it clearly as she had been thrown against the tree, her side exploding with pain as she felt her body rattle with the impact and the pressure from many cats surrounding her, caught up in their panic. It had shaken her deeply, but with it, her lungs had been damaged, and she had trouble being able to see clearly through the sudden haze of the injury. The ginger Solar Guardian had vague memories of being nudged to her paws, cries echoing down from the trees and a blur of pelts and colours as she had been coaxed through the forest, multiple cats, maybe just one or two supporting either side of her, as cats yowled all around them. Most of the flood had been in darkness to her as she had closed her eyes to block out the pain of her injury, but she had known that she had been taken to what was the new cliff camp and of a surge of panic from the clan.
She had opened her eyes to see the cliffs around her as she had been sheltered under an overhang. Every cat in the clan was under the overhang, and mews had sounded all around from Solarspark. As soon as her eyes had opened the ginger Solar Guardian had felt like a kit opening her eyes for the first time, this part of the territory new to her. The she-cat had not often patrolled where the new clan camp was, but recognised the area from visits to the Sunjaw. Emberblaze had been staring ahead, looking blankly at nothing, and Featherfall seemed to be watching over the clan using her nose, ears and touch, but when both of the cats noticed she had opened her eyes they ran over, diverting the attention of the clan from themselves and their peers to her.
Every cat was staring at her, and for a moment the she-cat had wished she could swap places with Featherfall, with blind eyes that could not see such curious stares all directed towards her. "What's going on?" the ginger she-cat had croaked, wincing at the rasp in her voice and the sudden surprise that came from the Guardians. Emberblaze's vacant gaze focused on her, and he rasped, "How are you feeling?" avoiding her question entirely and bringing to Solarspark's attention that something was definitely wrong. It wasn't just the flood that had taken a toll on him as much as any cat, but he was dismal and distracted as he had been when Blossomfur had died after the badger attack many moons ago. "She should try not to talk," Featherfall told him sharply, glancing towards the gathering of queens in the warmest part of the den. "I-" Solarspark been to splutter, before a cough had wracked her body. "Rest, Solarspark, please," Featherfall meowed gently, touching the ginger she-cat's side with her tail in a comforting manner. The white she-cat then began to bring her up to date with the clan from what had happened, the younger Solar Guardian's maturity in the situation bringing a spark of pride to Solarspark.
Robinrise suddenly let out a yowl of distress, and Featherfall turned to leave, but Solarspark touched her flank with her tail. "I'm proud of you Featherfall. You've progressed so well and overcome every challenge that has come to you," she rasped, in happiness. Featherfall turned again, a smile on her lips, before she left to help the clan. Solarspark couldn't help noticing the innocent surprise that had showed Featherfall rather than any arrogance, and knew her apprentice had progressed a lot from originally not wanting to become a Solar Guardian, and resenting the role. Featherfall had adjusted very well, and Solarspark knew she would have to as well to face the changes in the situation.
The elder returned to the present as Eaglefrost shuffled into the den sorrowfully, his tail and paws dragging across the ground with every weary step. After Russetheart and Greystone had died he had instantly become an unrecognisable, miserable cat that was so unlike the tom's usual quick-witted mind and barbed tongue. As Solarspark was beginning to know very well, elders had to tell stories to kits or at least entertain younger cats, but like Emberblaze, the tom was wearily going about his life, almost fading away. He and Russetheart had been close friends, but the rest of the elders wouldn't be a good enough substitute for the two sharp she-cats, always appearing so wise and respected.
Petalfang was sharing a large, plump pigeon with Wimbrelpelt and Harrierflight, not really saying anything, but occasionally attempting to start a conversation. They too were affected deeply by the losses of Greystone and Russetheart, having also been good friends with the two departed elders. They had risen more quickly from the deaths then Eaglefrost, but still seemed forlorn, less talkative and no longer talking to all the clan cats but staying in their tight knit group. This left Solarspark to be an outsider to the elders, as well as Spider.
Having been a more recent arrival to the clan, Spider wasn't as used to clans unlike the rest of the elders, most of whom had their families grow up in the old CosmoClan before it had been refounded by Emberblaze, Blossomfur and Lyrastar. The elders who had joined the clan before Spider told stories of being young warriors when the previous version of the clan had collapsed (these stories were rarely heard now, but with a chill, Solarspark remembered it too had something to do with a flood), with only the exception of Russetheart, who had come from a rogue group moons before when CosmoClan had helped a group to find new land. The black tom may have not been spoken to by his fellow clanmates as much, due to being less experienced with the clan, but rather than offering wisdom, the tom was great at telling wild stories of badgers and foxes, leaving even senior warriors listening in in wonder. Not only that, but Spider definitely had more humour then most of the elders, and being more detached from the main group of elders, he was more light-hearted upon the deaths of multiple clanmates, understanding the pain of grief but generally being more cheerful, and helping cats look past the losses to their clanmates and helping them as well. Solarspark and Spider swapped stories and had conversations, but even so the elders den was a cold place to be emotionally, with a dark cloud still over the cats there and an impact on all that came near, one of the sadness that had burdened the entire clan after the flood.
Solarspark sat in solitude now, her ears angling towards Wimbrelpelt, Harrierflight and Petalfang to catch any interesting snippets of information. Eaglefrost had sat in his nest now, his eyes closed but she could see his tail twitching to show that he was awake. Solarspark continued like this for a couple of moments, temporarily losing focus as she overheard Spider nearby the den talking to what sounded like the apprentices and sharing one of his stories, before hearing something of interest to her.
"After Greystone..." this was followed by a sigh from Petalfang, before she continued wearily, "When we were preparing for vigil at sunset, I saw a bright star where the sun was swallowed by the trees. It must have been a sign," the elder began, bringing all cats to attention in the den. Solarspark blinked, feeling like something had shifted in the air. She had felt the power of the stars when she had been a Solar Guardian, and even now she was ready to use the knowledge she had gained to help her clanmates, not matter what rank she was within the clan. Hearing of this Star was interesting, especially after the entire clan had noted a new constellation in the sky that showed the SpaceColony had accepted the dead. Was it a sign that Greystone was watching over them now, or something more? Whatever it was, Solarspark was interested in this star the white and grey elder had mentioned.
"Do you know what the star could mean?" Solarspark asked, her paws itching to leave the den and see it. The cats looked towards her in what seemed like surprise as if they had only just noticed her presence, but all of them knew she still had the abilities of a Solar Guardian, including interpreting signs. Energy flowed through her like a wave, and suddenly the den felt too small to contain it. She jumped to her paws, then winced as she felt a small lace of pain through her side. Being careful was certainly a priority now, but excitement had taken hold of her. The clan wanted a sign about the current situation, like a guide to finding and chasing out the dog scented on their territory and the illness that had affected Lyrastar, Ebonypool and Birchkit, as well as poor Shellrise and Greystone, and Solarspark knew this would be good."Tell me, please!" she pleaded, upon seeing the slow reaction of her peers.
"I can show you Solarspark. Any cat can see it in the sky, and I'll let you to find the meaning yourself." Petalfang meowed, her eyes bright with hope. Eaglefrost opened his eyes, and Solarspark was happy to see that they held renewed strength, but even so, when he spoke he still seemed miserable. "Russetheart and Speckledleaf have their vigils tonight," Eaglefrost meowed slowly, his thin frame tense. "When a patrol visited the forest camp they were able to recover them, and tonight we will hold their vigils to properly send them to the SpaceColony," he continued, his voice growing in strength until he seemed like a younger cat. "This new star will watch over us and show us what to do next, and Speckledleaf and Russetheart will find their peace with the stars." The tom got to his paws and started to groom his ruffled pelt. To know that their clanmates would find peace was enough for him to be happier, and Solarspark noticed the immediate change in her companions as the tom perked up. Petalfang purred, her amber eyes sparkling with a newfound happiness. "I'm glad to see you happy, you old badger," she teased gently.
Sunset approached, and as it did, the clan came together to mourn for their lost clanmates. The entire clan was ready to send off their clanmates to the SpaceColony, glad that they would find peace at last, and with it, some of the sorrow from the flood would be lost as well. Solarspark sat near the edge of the camp with Petalfang, Eaglefrost, Harrierflight, Wimbrelpelt and Spider, their eyes fixed on the sky. As the sun fell, the stars because more apparent, and soon Harrierflight's pelt fluffed up with excitement. "There it is! Beside the sun!" Indeed, the SpaceColony's warrior was there in the sky, brighter then most of the stars. Solarspark observed, and once again she felt her old energy flowing through her limbs at the excitement of it. The star twinkled alone, distant from the other stars like it didn't mind being on the edge, but keeping a more watchful eye on the clan as one of the first to appear in the night sky. Solarspark looked into the light of the dying sun, and in the depths of the edge of the sky and the star, she saw changes to be made to the clan. It wasn't just a sign of change, but a sign of hope, and that CosmoClan was being watched by their ancestors after the flood. CosmoClan's constellation glimmered into view as well, and without looking around her Solarspark knew the clan was watching the stars as well.
A ripple of calm spread through CosmoClan, a time of reflection as the sun fell in the sky. Even though no cat seemed to be leading the ceremony for Speckledleaf and Russetheart right now, all cats could feel that there were no words to be said. Solarspark's whiskers were twitching as she picked up on the calm in the clan and the feel of a warming breeze.
She let the peaceful feeling grip her for what felt like nine lifetimes, and then the feeling of eyes upon her pelt. It was Dawnkit. The kit's eyes glimmered with knowledge, and Solarspark had an eerie feeling that she too had picked up on the sign the SpaceColony was giving her. The fur across her spine rippled as she observed Dawnkit as well, elder and kit locking gazes. The young she-cat nodded. She understood the star, and Solarspark wondered how far her connection stretched with the SpaceColony, especially after the kit had told the guardians of hearing the SpaceColony, knowledge that had then been shared with her.
Eyes flicked to the medicine den. Three bundles of fur were curled up at the end of the den. Lyrastar would not be governing the ceremony, especially as she was ill. Solarspark thought she had detected the leader's too bright eyes glimmer in the darkness, but was unsure even so until she heard a rasping cough, and three pairs of weary eyes upon them. To know that their leader was watching encouraged Solarspark, and she nodded to her fellow elders, joy sparkling through her. The StarColony was with them, and this make Solarspark feel as though she wanted to soar through the stars.
Emberblaze came to the center of the camp with Swiftsky behind him, the two toms exchanging a glance. Emberblaze swallowed, nodding to his former leader. "You know what to do," the white tom whispered, taking a step back to join his clan, taking a glance to the medicine den where his mate was ill. Emberblaze felt a shiver, and looked around to see many glittering eyes. Courage was brought to him as he saw Flamewing flicking her tail towards the stars, and Emberblaze looked up. The clan still remembered Blossomfur, although she had passed many moons ago, and with the grief over their clanmates old sadness was being reawakened. Emberblaze was holding this ceremony tonight in honour of her and other lost clanmates, including his daughter Speckledleaf.
Emberblaze rose to stand on a large rock in the center of the crowd, the stars shimmering above them in the clear night sky, and in a solemn voice, he began the ceremony. His shoulders were hunched and the tom was aware of his ruffled pelt, but he stood firmly. "Two moons ago, CosmoClan was impacted by the flood. With it the flood has brought a great deal of change to our lives," he meowed, the memory of shocked yowls and ruffling pelts in his mind. With a pause to reflect and think of what to say, Emberblaze then continued, "our clan has survived this tragedy with the strength of the stars beside us, but even so, despite our perseverance in the darkest times, we have lost clanmates to the flood." Emberblaze paused, bowing his head and closing his eyes before looking upwards, with the brilliance of the cosmos reflecting in his eyes. CosmoClan has been affected deeply by this disaster, with friends and family lost, but we must now know that our deceased clanmates are at rest, which is why we are gathered here tonight." the tom wrapped his tail neatly round his paws, them looked towards the bodies of Russetheart and Speckledleaf that lay in the clearing. "May we remember Russetheart and Speckledleaf for the lives they dedicated to their clan, and that they will find rest with the stars. They are gone, but," Emberblaze said with a slight shake to his voice, "we will treasure the times and memories we have shared with them, and that w-we would like them to know that they have loving friends and family who will always remember them." the tortoiseshell tom was quite overcome with emotion, his eyes glistening with sadness as he looked down upon Russetheart and Speckledleaf. Russetheart and he may not have been close but he had admired her wisdom and how she had given herself to her clan. Speckledleaf was his beloved daughter, and he could never forget her kindness and generosity from when she had been a kit, which she had always expressed towards anyone else in the clan. He could not forget her resilience after when she had become a warrior so soon after Blossomfur's death, and he knew that her spirit would forever be treasured in the clan, through memory and through her kits, three young cats who showed the same hope and kindness as his daughter had.
The tom continued, regaining his power over his emotions as his mind cleared of uncertainty. To lose Blossomfur and Speckledleaf would forever impact him, but for the clan Emberblaze had to be strong. They would not forget any of the cats who had lost their lives, and he had to remind every cat. "Multiple lives have been lost since CosmoClan was created from the ashes by Lyrastar, and we must remember them. Cedarsun, Tawnyheart, Blossomfur, Joaquin, Speckledleaf, Shellrise, Bramblingtuft, Blacknose, Russetheart and Greystone will always be known to us as cats who we shall not forget, and under the stars, we know that they are watching us and ready to guide our pawsteps." Taking a shaky breath, Emberblaze jumped down from the rock.
Aspenleaf nodded, the fur along her spine ruffling. Flamewing gave him a small heartwarming smile, light returning to her eyes. Lionscorch and Yewheart looked up to the stars, and Thunderbird, Bearfoot and their kits bowed their heads, pelts pressed close as comfort to be close by siblings. Whitefoot and Sycamoreheart exchanged quiet words and the elders watched the skies, and the many stars above them. The entire clan was understanding his words and accepting them.
There was no pain, only calm acceptance that lightened Emberblaze's pawsteps as he sat vigil for the elder and his daughter. Speckledleaf was able to rest properly with the ceremony join the stars. He could imagine she was sitting with Blossomfur now, and as he began the vigil, he knew they would be up there, watching over Flamewing and him.
[The floods have nearly died down completely, leaving large puddles across the territory. The warm weather is helping to dry up the remainder of the water, but the damage is still there]
[Hurricanegaze, Herontalon, Sycamoreheart, Whitefoot, Birdlight and Dustfeather hunt, scouring the trees and higher ground]
[Flamewing, Fawnshine, Goldenwhisker, Magpietail, Lilypad and Badgerstrike hunt near the cliff and on high ground]
[Lionscorch, Yewheart, Arrowfang, Verglas-strike, Wisteriawhisper, Mosstooth and patrol, searching for the dog to chase it out of the territory]
[Wolfclaw, Thornstride, Bearfoot, Stonestep, Doestripe and Raccoontooth patrol, ready to serve as a back up patrol to help drive out the dogs.]
[Acorntuft and Harerise train: Climbing]
[Thornstride and Cherryrise train: Stealth]
[Oliveshadow and Ternrise train: Fishing]
[Willowthroat and Pinerise train: Swimming]
[Badgerstrike and Oakrise train: Swimming]
[Raccoontooth and Dapplerise train: Battle]
[Stonestep and Robinrise train: Swimming]
[Fernshade and Seedrise train: Hunting]
[Leafpounce and Roserise train: Hunting]
[Briarsweep and Blossomrise train: Battle]
[Daisystream and Sunrise train: Stealth]
[Larksoar and Rookrise train: Battle]
[Emberblaze, Thunderbird and Swiftsky search for Catmint and their substitutes]
[Featherfall, Fernshade and Juniperberry search for strength giving herbs]
[Solarspark, Oliveshadow and Yewheart look for Juniper berries and fever relieving herbs. Solarspark is careful of her asthma and makes sure not to overexert herself]
[Emberblaze and Featherfall are now trying their hardest to save the sick cats. The better weather and conditions are helping them, but the heat also means that they are more feverish.]
[Lyrastar has lost a life from greencough, leaving her weakened but able to recover better with help from the StarColony, leaving her to only need rest and to regain her strength. However, she is now on her last life]
[Birchkit holds off death for now, but is weakened by developing whitecough symptoms that may progress to greencough. Dawnkit seems to believe that he will be recovering, but nothing is certain at this stage.]
[Ebonypool is now diagnosed with greencough, and the guardians are careful with her condition, making sure she is watched over at all times]
[All three cats are given 3x Lamb's Ear to give them strength, and Ebonypool and Birchkit are given 1x Borage Leaves and 1x Lavender to help their fevers.]
[As Solarspark is recovering from the flood's impact, she is beginning to be considered to be moved back as a Solar Guardian. As their leader is weakened the decision is still considered, but Solarspark will have asthma as a life long condition, along with the effects of her injury still coming up]
[The guardians have seen the star, and take it as a sign of hope from a CosmoClan cat who has died recently. They also take it as a sign of change, but it is still be be discussed properly when they have more time. The elders discuss it as well, and Solarspark comes to the same conclusion as the current guardians, as well as a sign that the StarColony is still watching them closely]
[Both Emberblaze and Flamewing have found peace after the ceremony for their dead clanmates. Only Flamewing carries anger after the death of her sister, which could lead for trouble for the clan]
[The clan consumes seventeen servings]
Sorry for the previous trouble, but the two images are working now! Thank you! The only other thing I want to say is that concerning medical abilities with herbs, should it be specified who has skills with them? Blazeheart, Fernshade and Juniperberry are all former medicine cats, so I want to know if they would retain their abilities.
- Leader:
Lyrastar | 72 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Lives: ★(1/8)
Solar Guardian:
Featherfall | 28 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
-Blind
Lunar Guardian:
Emberblaze | 73 Moons |Tom | ⋆
Warriors:
Swiftsky | 78 moons | Tom | ⋆
Thunderbird | 49 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Oliveshadow | 48 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Juniperberry | 61 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Fernshade | 64 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Briarsweep | 82 Moons | She-Cat | ⋆
Blazeheart | 65 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Whitefoot | 74 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Kitetalon | 47 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Hurricanegaze | 60 Moons | She-cat |⋆
Arrowfang | 62 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Amberowl | 45 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Sycamoreheart | 77 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Lionscorch | 79 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Badgerstrike | 44 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Yewheart "Aconite" | 48 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Ebonypool| 74 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Willowthroat | 39 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Poppycloud | 71 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Cloverfield | 37 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Bearfoot | 46 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Owlwing | 48 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Leopardeyes | 58 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Wisteriawhisper | 54 Moons | She-cat|⋆
Wolfclaw | 45 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Acorntuft | 49 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Aspenleaf | 54 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Flamewing | 31 Moons | She-cat |⋆
Thornstride | 30 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Riverfrost | 39 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Dustfeather | 32 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Stonestep | 29 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Birdlight | 29 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Fawnshine | 31 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Herontalon | 28 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Raccoontooth | 28 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Goldenwhisker | 28 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Magpietail | 27 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Lilypad | 41 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Larksoar | 28 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Sedgebreeze | 49 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Verglas-strike | 24 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Gorsetalon | 24 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Rushtail | 24 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Grassleap | 24 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Leafpounce | 24 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Mosstooth | 24 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Doestripe | 41 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Mouseflower | 55 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Saffronblaze | 19 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Daisystream | 19 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Burnetheart | 19 Moons |Tom | ⋆
Hawkcall | 47 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Otterfoot | 34 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Fuzzywhisker | 60 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Applefish | 45 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Flowersplash | 28 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Dovewhisker | 48 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Redwhisker | 21 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Brindleshade | 17 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Spottedcloud | 16 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Tumbletooth | 16 Moons | Tom | ⋆
-Allergy to Rabbit
Runningclaw | 16 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Jaywing | 16 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Umberheart | 16 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Lizardstorm | 13 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Berrystone | 13 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Streamripple | 13 Moons |Tom | ⋆
Apprentices:
Harerise | 12 Moons | Tom | ⋆ (top)
Cherryrise | 12 Moons | She-cat | ⋆ (middle)
Ternrise | 12 Moons | Tom | ⋆ (bottom)
Pinerise | 11 Moons | Tom | ⋆ (bottom)
Oakrise | 11 Moons | Tom | ⋆ (top)
Dapplerise | 11 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Robinrise | 11 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Seedrise | 13 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Roserise | 10 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Blossomrise | 8 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Sunrise | 8 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Rookrise | 8 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Patchrise | 9 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Queens:
Softstep | 62 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Heatherclaw | 29 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Flurrywing| 35 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Featherfall*
Kits:
Dawnkit | 4 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
- Has Schizophrenia
Mallowkit | 4 Moons | Tom | ⋆ (left)
Mintkit | 4 Moons | Tom | ⋆ (right)
Birchkit | 3 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Hollykit | 3 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Larchkit | 3 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Windkit | 5 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Whisperkit| 5 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Twigkit| 5 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Fernkit | 1 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Shadowkit| 1 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Floodkit | 1 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Skykit| 1 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Elders:
Eaglefrost | 124 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Whimbrelpelt | 94 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Harrierflight | 94 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Petalfang | 95 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
Spider | 80 Moons | Tom | ⋆
Solarspark | 52 Moons | She-cat | ⋆
-has Asthma
- Ally Clans:
Clan Name | Username
Clan Name | Username
Enemy Clans
Clan Name | Username
Clan Name | Username
Borders
North |Tribe of Shimmering Dawn| ~Glaceon~
East | WaveClan | lame loser lexi.
South | Clan Name | Username
Southwest | MistClan | scarlet_wolf
West | Clan Name | Username
Medicine Store
Beech Bark | x2 | Usage
Beech Nuts | x0 | Usage
Borage Leaves | x1 | Usage
Broom | x1 | Usage
Catchweed | x1 | Usage
Catmint | x0 | Usage
Celandine | x1 | Usage
Chamomile | x0 | Usage
Chervil | x1 | Usage
Chickweed | x0 | Usage
Cobweb | x2 | Usage
Comfrey Root | x1 | Usage
Daisy leaves | x1 | Usage
Deathberries | x1 | Usage
Fennel | x0 | Usage
Heather Nectar | x0 | Usage
Honey | x0 | Usage
Poppyseed | x1 | Usage
Lamb's Ear | x3 | Usage
Lavender | x1 | Usage
Marigold | x3 | Usage
Parsley | x1 | Usage
Raspberry Leaves | x0 | Usage
Rush | x1 | Usage
Sorrel | X0 | Usage
Sweet Cedge | x2 | Usage
Tansy | x1 | Usage
Thyme | x1 | Usage
Wintergreen | x2 | Usage
Fresh-Kill Pile:
Mouse | x1 | 1 Serving
Vole | x7 | 1 serving
Wren | x7 | 1 serving
Robin | x8 | 2 servings
Squirrel | x7 | 2 servings
Rabbit | x6 | 2 Servings
Big Fish | x4 | 3 servings
Hare | x3 | 3 servings
Pigeon | x4 | 3 Servings
90 Servings
Mentors:
Acorntuft | Harerise | 5 training sessions | Hunting,
Stealth, Battle, Fishing
Flamewing | Cherryrise | 5 training sessions | Battle,
Fishing, Hunting,
Oliveshadow | Ternrise | 5 training sessions | Stealth,
Battle, Hunting, Climbing
Willowthroat | Pinerise | 5 training sessions | Fishing,
Battle,
Badgerstrike | Oakrise | 5 training sessions | Fishing,
Battle, Hunting, Stealth
Raccoontooth | Dapplerise | 5 training sessions | Stealth,
Hunting,
Stonestep | Robinrise | 5 training sessions | Battle,
Fishing, Hunting, Climbing, Stealth
Fernshade | Seedrise | 3 Training sessions | Stealth,
Swimming, Battle
Leafpounce | Roserise | 3 Training sessions | Fishing,
Climbing, Battle
Deceased Cats:
Cedarsun | 0 Moons | Tom | Fading Kitten Syndrome
Tawnyheart | 2 Moons | She-cat | Fading Kitten Syndrome
Blossomfur | 48 Moons | She-cat | Badger Attack
Joaquin | 47 Moons | Tom | Fox wounds
Speckledleaf | 29 Moons | She-cat | Drowning
Shellrise | 9 Moons | Tom | Greencough
Bramblingtuft | 34 Moons | Tom | Crushed by Rocks
Blacknose | 70 Moons | Tom | Drowning
Russetheart | 110 Moons | She-cat | Drowning
Greystone | 137 Moons | She-cat | Greencough
Cat Name | Death Cause
Family:
Wimbrelpelt and Harrierflight | Siblings
Lyrastar and Sun (Shimmering Dawn tribe) | Siblings
Swiftsky, Cloudyspots(PineClan),
Dreamingwing (?Clan), Misty | Siblings
Arrowfang and Softstep | Siblings
Swiftsky and Redhawk (FloodClan) |Skygaze(MistClan),
Carpkit
Emberblaze and Blossomfur | Flamewing, Speckledleaf
Wisteriawhisper and Blizzardrush(QuickClan) |
Featherfall, Herontalon, Raccoontooth, Goldenwhisker
Arrow Fang and Hurricane Glider | Heatherclaw,
Stonestep, Birdlight
? and Poppycloud | Willowthroat, Briarpaw (RidgeClan),
Burrpaw (Snowclan),Windpaw (Pebbleclan),
Bramblepaw (Snowclan), Eaglepaw(Honestclan)
Aspenleaf and ??? | Verglas-strike, Gorsetalon,
Rushtail, Grassleap, Tawnykit, Cedarsun.
Leafpounce + Mosstooth (adopted)
?? and ??| Dustfeather, Fawnshine
Swiftsky and Ebonypool | Lizardstorm
Blazeheart and Leopardeyes | Spottedcloud,
Tumbletooth, Runningclaw, Jaywing.
Acorntuft and Owlwing | Berrystone, Streamripple
Brindlerise (adopted)
Badgerstrike and Amberowl | n/a
Lilypad and ??? | Saffronblaze, Daisystream,
Burnetheart
Thunderbird + Bearfoot and Kitetalon (surrogate) |
Pinerise, Oakrise (Bearfoot's), Dapplerise, Robinrise,
Shellrise (Thunderbird's)
Riverfrost and Speckledleaf | Blossomrise,
Sunrise, Rookrise
Birdlight and Featherfall | Dawnkit, Mallowkit,
Mintkit
Softstep and ?? | Birchkit, Hollykit, Larchkit
Heatherclaw and Burntsight (FloodClan) |
Fernkit, Shadowkit, Floodkit, Skykit
