[I Like Bees]

[ Start of Round ]

"Thank you all for your replies!!"

July/August/September Quests

Quest #1
SushiFoxx -- +10 exp
coffee.berry -- +15 exp, +35 exp = +50 exp
All Along Watchtower -- +30 exp
dascanadiansparkle -- +15 exp
Sinful_Lies -- +15 exp
KrystalAster -- +20 exp
BunnoBlizzard -- +45 exp
quirky; -- +40 exp
MutatedCry -- +20 exp
nindroidzane -- +30 exp
ethium -- +30 exp
Chanceuxcat -- +40 exp
allynabean -- +45 exp
wildsight -- +25 exp

Quest #2
vympyre -- +125 exp
SushiFoxx -- +30 exp
aglassman -- +30 exp
coffee.berry -- +30 exp
dascanadiansparkle -- +70 exp
Meowdle -- +45 exp
quirky; -- +30 exp
MutatedCry -- +45 exp
nindroidzane -- +35 exp
allynabean -- +52 exp
wildsight -- +25 exp

Quest #3
SushiFoxx -- +20 exp
coffee.berry -- +5 exp
dascanadiansparkle -- +35 exp
Sinful_Lies -- +20 exp
MutatedCry -- +15 exp
ethium -- +30 exp
allynabean -- +140 exp
Vivika -- +90 exp

Please remember to link to this post in your next explore post to use your exp!

"And here are some special prizes for those who put extra effort into their entries!
You can use this to buy some cool stuff from StarClan's shop!"

vympyre -- +250 stardust
SushiFoxx -- +120 stardust
coffee.berry -- +170 stardust
dascanadiansparkle -- +240 stardust
quirky; -- +140 stardust
MutatedCry -- +160 stardust
nindroidzane -- +130 stardust
ethium -- +120 stardust
allynabean -- +474 stardust
Vivika -- +180 stardust

"Thank you all for participating! I loved hearing about each of your Clans!"

"While I loved all of your entries, these ones were my favorites! Here's something extra for your hard work!"

Quest #1 - MutatedCry & wildsight
+1 UN MYO each

Quest #2 - vympyre & aglassman
+1 1R MYO each

Quest #3 - allynabean & Vivika
+1 UR MYO each

"Wait wait wait, I have more questions, don't leave yet!"

A new round has begun!
These are custom quests written specifically for October, and aren't on the official prompt doc. This means they won't be repeated again, and you're encouraged to reply to them as in-depth and for as many cats/Clans as you'd like!

QUEST #1
Trick or treat! Some trick-or-treaters have shown up at your clan.
Who in your clan offers them treats, and who offers them tricks?
You may write and/or draw your response to this prompt.

QUEST #2
It's time to go trick-or-treating! What costumes do your cats wear?
You may only draw your response to this prompt.

QUEST #3
Do your cats believe in ghosts/similar? Do they have an significance in your Clan?
You may only write your response to this prompt.

These quests will end when CS rolls over to November 1st!

This was posted the same time as the post above; Swishy just bumped the thread and made it look like I posted this late >:( /lh

[coffee.berry]

(っ◔◡◔)っ ♥ QUEST #1 ♥

Trick or treat! Some trick-or-treaters have shown up at your clan.
Who in your clan offers them treats, and who offers them tricks?
You may write and/or draw your response to this prompt.

It was a dark and strangely warm night. All the cats in the clan were awaiting two special kittens who came last year to trick-or-treat!

"Are they here yet?" Ashpaw asked. She loved all kits, and had been one herself last year.

The kittens were two cheerful torties, and they were covered in leaves and sunflowers to make costumes.


As they came over, they squealed "trick or treat!" and as a treat, the whole clan invited them to stay there for a half moon. The kits only tricks were that they had to hunt their own food, with a fighter each, of course!


The soft mewing of cats was heard outside the clan. Ashpaw and Silverstar rushed over to the entrance of the mountain, to see two apprentice-sized torties! "Redkit! Creamkit!" Ashpaw whispered.

"Ashkit!" the two torties mewed. "Hah, we're called Redpaw and Creampaw now! So you must be Ashpaw!"

Ashpaw nodded. The clan ran over to the cats, picked them up and got them inside the clan.

Then, everyone sat in a circle inside the warm medicine cat den, and Redpaw and Creampaw told everyone their adventures.

And when the cats least expected them to say it...

"TRICK OR TREAT!"

(っ◔◡◔)っ ♥ QUEST #2 ♥

It's time to go trick-or-treating! What costumes do your cats wear?
You may only draw your response to this prompt.

[miraphoenix]

Username: miraphoenix
Clan link: Havenclan
Prompt:

QUEST #1
Trick or treat! Some trick-or-treaters have shown up at your clan. Who in your clan offers them treats, and who offers them tricks?
You may write and/or draw your response to this prompt.

“Trick or treat!”

The call went out through the crisp autumn air, ringing off the gnarled bark of Forest’s Heart. Night had begun to cast their dark cloak across the forest, and low puffs of mist were caught in the tallest branches of the trees. From between the clouds, the rising moon cast bright slivers of light down onto the forest floor, glistening like silver fish in the river shallows.

From a whorl in the bark, a cat emerged.

“Oh, hello there!”
The gangly orange tabby wriggled out of the bark and bounced down the tree to the trick-or-treaters, their voice somewhat muffled by a small package in their jaws. Once safely on the ground, Hawkstar placed the small bundle down, its contents wrapped in maple leaves. The kits gathered around, eager to see what the Havenclan leader had brought.

“And a treat for you, and a treat for you…!” Hawkstar said as they passed around the treats; small, multi-colored gemstones, polished and worn smooth by the river. In the fading light, the gems glistened and shone, twinkling like captured stars.

Laughing and comparing their treasures, the kits thanked Hawkstar and ran off into the gathering darkness.

~~~

“Trick or treat, trick or treat!”

This time, the kits gathered around a dark root-nest, peering into the gloom inside. This was the healer’s root-den, so shouldn’t Maplesong or Willowmask be inside? They hoped it was Maplesong; Willowmask would give them mouse heads, or sour berries or unripe crabapples...

“Boo!”

The kits yelped and stumbled backwards, shock in their eyes and their tails puffed out like bottlebrushes.

The source of the fright cackled, wiping away the charcoal dust and berry juice from her face. Behind the frightful visage, the laughing face of Crabapple, grinning in the gloom.

“You asked for a trick or a treat, right?” she chortled, patting one of the kittens on the head as hackles flattened and breathing calmed.

“Oh, don’t worry, it’s not all tricks! Here, I’ve got something nice for you, too! Don’t tell Willowmask; they’ll knot my whiskers together if they find out this was me…”

The kits scampered away, giggling, with their baskets full of the summer’s best dried strawberries.

~~~

“Tr-trick or treat…?”

The request was quiet, hesitant, the assembled kits barely daring to intrude on the ancient cat ahead of them. Oakstrike looked up, raising one gnarled eyebrow as they peered over their shoulder at the assembled kits.

“Trick or treat? Nah, kits, nah; I’m tired today. Go see Salmonrun or Herringfern; let me sleep,” the old warrior grumbled, curling their tail around themself again.

Sadly, the kits began to shuffle off, tails held low; none of them had meant to bother Oakstrike, and all were crestfallen that the somewhat-legendary cat wasn’t wanting to join in the fun.

“…Ah, why not. C’mere, all of you.” Oakstrike’s voice called out after the retreating group. “Now, I’m no Trouttail, but I’ve got some stories. And perhaps some of you would want to share this salmontail with me…?”

The kits looked amongst themselves, eyes wide with surprise. Now this, this was a rare treat! Oakstrike barely had time to brace themself before they were—carefully—mobbed by the small horde of trick-or-treaters, clambering over them in their eagerness to hear the stories. And get mouthfuls of the salmon, too.

“Now, where to start. Oh of course! Well, it was a dark and stormy night…”

[566 words]

QUEST #2
It's time to go trick-or-treating! What costumes do your cats wear?
You may only draw your response to this prompt.

It looks like Antlermoss is getting ready to make sure Meadowkit can go out trick-or-treating...!

QUEST #3
Do your cats believe in ghosts/similar? Do they have an significance in your Clan?
You may only write your response to this prompt.

A presence at the root-den entrance woke Cedarwhisker from her slumber, and she stretched with a languid yawn.

“Who is that at my door? Come in, come in,” she called, pushing up into a seated position as her eyes adjusted to the light once again.

Soft paws padded across the floor and to her side, their owner huddling close.

“…Gullkit, what’s wrong?”

The kit in question huddled for a minute more, then spoke in a shaky voice.
“O-out there,” he started, swallowing. “Seapaw was talking, and she said… She said that there were ghosts? That there would be ghosts…”

Cedarwhisker nodded, and gave Gullkit a gentle pat on the shoulder.
“Oh, little Gull,” she began, a soft smile on her face as she groomed the worried kit. “The spirits will not harm you.”

Gullkit hiccuped and looked up at Cedarwhisker, nervousness and curiosity shining in equal proportion in his eyes.
“The spirits,” Cedarwhisker continued, “Are here to help and guide us. They are our teachers and our friends, worthy of our respect. They are like our clan’s elders, in that way.”

Gullkit nodded, thoughts visibly whirling through his mind.
“Like Trouttail?” he asked, thinking of the kind old elder and storyteller.

Cedarwhisker smiled, nodding in affirmation.
“Some are like Trouttail, with warmth and stories. Some can be a little more like Oakstrike, a bit more standoffish and hard to connect to. But even Oakstrike wants to help you; they might be gruff, but they’re not out to hurt—”

“Seapaw said that the ghosts were coming,” Gullkit interrupted, his anxiety once again revealed. “What… What does that mean? Are there gonna be dead cats and fish and…?”

The Tree-Speaker placed her paw on Gullkit’s shoulder again, purring with comforting warmth.
“Nothing so horrible as what you’re imagining, little one,” she murmured, eyes soft.
“When the spirits walk in the autumn, at the changing of the leaves, they are here to spend time with us. The spirits’ visitation is similar to when the clans meet, and we mingle with our neighbors. If you’re quiet and careful, you might see them flitting through the trees, or hear their voices carried on the winds. There is nothing to be scared of; they are our friends and family, coming to visit us before the cold of winter nights.”

As she spoke, Cedarwhisker watched Gullkit calming, his heartbeat evening from its frantic tattoo into a steady rhythm, fear turning to excitement in his eyes.
“So what… What do we do?” he asked, tilting his head and looking up at her.

“An excellent question, Gullkit,” Cedarwhisker answered with a warm smile. “What do we do when Moonclan comes to visit?”

Gullkit furrowed his brow in concentration as he thought. “We… The big cats all get to meet together, and the apprentices… The apprentices bring the food, and sometimes get to sit with the big cats! And I get to bring the shiny rocks from the river!” His face was triumphant pride at his place in the story.

“Exactly! And the spirits are just the same; we bring our food and our gifts to them, and we share our stories and our time,” Cedarwhisker confirmed, giving Gullkit another gentle lick between the ears.
“So I get to bring out the shiny rocks again?!”

Excitement was audible in the kit’s voice, and Cedarwhisker chuckled, watching as the youngster’s fur began to puff with excitement, rather than with fear.

“Yes, Gullkit, you can bring out the shiny rocks. Maybe the kingfisher spirit would like to see what you’ve found? And if you ask nicely, they might show you where to find more…!”

Gullkit needed no further encouragement, the sudden joy in his eyes replacing the fear that had formerly dwelt within them. Before the Tree-Speaker could blink, he had darted off towards the entrance to the root-den, the cedarbark flying from his paws.
“Thanks, Cedarwhisker!” he called back over his shoulder, when he remembered he had forgotten his goodbyes. “I’ll tell the spirits you say hi!!”

Cedarwhisker smiled and waved to the retreating kit, settling back into her nest with a soft sigh and a secret smile. Free from observation, she let her form relax, fur turning ever so briefly into shredded, scented bark, her eyes the color of new cedar leaves.
“And the spirits say hello to you too, little one. The spirits say hello.”

[727 words]

[Archaeopteryx.]

Username: MutatedCry
Clan link: Clan of Eternal Sun
Prompt:
1.Trick or treat! Some trick-or-treaters have shown up at your clan.
Who in your clan offers them treats, and who offers them tricks?

Wip

2. It's time to go trick-or-treating! What costumes do your cats wear?

When you have self-confidence issues around your appearance but the newest member of the Clan thinks your mask makes you look cool and mysterious and dresses up as you.

3. Do your cats believe in ghosts/similar? Do they have an significance in your Clan?

Sometimes, when he is finally alone, Everstumble lets himself relax.

He has been in this Clan for well over five years now, watched cats come and go, watched kittens like terrified little Buckwheat and quiet Cascade and the tragic twins Gecko and Pine grow into fully fledged adults (the ones who came home, anyway, poor Brightwish...). The cramped, dark house he had come from seemed like a distant nightmare, replaced with wide desert sky and open chaparral and the wind always in his fur.

He knows, now, that this life isn't without its costs. This desert is surrounded by mountains for a reason— it acts as a water basin, and if you don't leave immediately it's impossible to escape, like a river fish trapped in a lake. And it changes cats, too— he has watched Timewatcher struggle to live with the constant flood of unwanted prophecies, forever unanchored in the flow of time. He was there when they took Spiritmask— then Buckwheat— back home, shivering and gasping as the burns seared into his pelt flickered and corrupted. He mourned with the Clan over the birth of Pine, knowing the kitten would slip through the cracks before he was even old enough to understand what that meant.

And yet, despite his Clanmate's curses, Everstumble knows the truth. That his is the most dangerous.

He is the only one who can see the flickers, the glimpses Between. He can see the two smaller shapes eternally flanking Spiritmask, choosing to drown in the desert's afterlife just to remain close to their brother. He's the only one who can see the wandering souls from his life before the Clan, the ones who didn't make it out, who found a sort of freedom after the hell of the house. And he wants so badly to reach out, to let them know that they are not alone, that they are seen and known and loved and—

—but he isn't supposed to be able to see them.

And the thing is, that if just a single one realizes what he can do, what he can see, more will learn. More will recognize. More blank, unseeing eyes will turn towards him, watching his every breath in envy. And the desert cat's ancestors are not the only things living in their afterlife.

The Clan respects ghosts, recognizes their existence the same way one recognizes the existence of the rain or the sun, but they will never see them. Everstumble prays they never do. He prays they never find out what he can do.

He covers his eyes, and pretends.

[Saeli]

Username: Saeli
Clan: Storm Knights

Quest Number: 1
Response:
Sevina stepped back, proudly looking at her display before her. Snow had asked if they could set up a little trick or treat 'table' to welcome both cats and rabbits alike to get treats from the pair. Sevina had readily agreed, she always enjoyed seeing the cats wobbling around in their costumes.

In the prior weeks while out scouting, Sevina and Snow began gathering items to put on the blanket outside their tent. Snow always insisted on carrying his treats himself, he never wanted to accept help from Sevina in carrying them home. He thought it was to important for him to remain an independent bunny even though he now lived with the cat clan.

She glanced down as Snow kept running back into the tent to get the herbs and vegetables he gathered for his trick or treaters. She would occasionally adjust them on the blanket they used as their treat table when he wasn't looking. Finally with a little pant, Snow looked up at Sevina and said, "I'm a little nervous. Do you think any of the rabbits will actually come?"

Sevina looked out over the camp where kits and cats alike were beginning to come out in their costumes. She looked towards the entrance of the camp before replying, "I bet they will! We've been working so hard to convince the other cats to welcome a safe haven for your community. This won't be the first night the rabbits were welcomed into camp after all!"

The pairs conversation was cut short due to the first batch of trick or treaters arriving at their tent. Sevina happily started handing out treats to the various different vampires, pumpkins, ghosts, wolves and other wonderfully dressed cats. Occasionally she would looked towards Snow, who was patiently waiting for a rabbit to come into camp. After about an hour, Snow was about to give up and started taking his treats back into their tent. Just then, Sevina heard an excited squeal come from some kits near the entrance to camp. Soon chatter of how cute that rabbit looked dressed as a little vampire began floating down the rows of tents.

Then she saw it! A huge group of rabbits was being escorted by some of the clans Knights. They were being led towards Sevina and Snow's tent. Sevina quickly ran into the tent snatching up as many of the treats she could, giving Snow a little smack with her tail as she informed him what was happening. Once back outside, Sevina heard a sweet familiar voice float towards her, but directed at Snow. "Sorry about the delay! We ran into some trouble when we went to pick up your friends. Since we got back so late, word was sent out that the festivities will run longer tonight. We've also sent some cats to set up a rest area for the rabbits before they can return home tomorrow!" The sweet voiced female offered a little wink to Sevina, bringing a blush to her face.

Snow's spirits almost immediately lifted as he could barely keep up with the initial trick or treaters for him. Sevina happily chatted with her knight friend as the evenings festivities went on. She was very pleased with results of all the effort she and her companions have been putting into making their clan a special home to all.


Word Count: 559

[SushiFoxx]

Username: SushiFoxx
Clan: https://toyhou.se/Sushifox/characters/folder:2183891

Quest Number: 1
Response:
The kits and apprentices all funneled into the camp in awe. They had spent their whole morning weaving their bags and baskets for trick or treating. They all held baskets and bags to hold their treats. They spent their whole morning out of camp so the warriors,leader,medicine cat and deputy could set up everything they needed to. All the kits and apprentices were wearing their costumes, some were bats, some squirrels,some badgers and so many more creative costumes!

Echostar smiled as she watched kits guided carefully by parents and apprentices bouncing over to her den excitedly. "Hi Echostar! Trick or treat!" The kits and apprentices all chirped in unison excitedly. Echostar smiled at the kits,apprentices and parents.
"Take a tasty treat" She told them all, handing out some delicious prey to them all. Echostar dipped her head softly to the parents of the kits "Happy Halloween!! Have a good rest of your night" She called out to them all as they bounded over to the next den holding out their baskets and buckets happily.

Bud smiled looking at the kits and apprentices as they bounced happily over to her den "Trick or treat!!" The kits said in unison followed shortly by the apprentices. The medicine cat chuckled softly "Take a treat everybody" She told them dropping some prey in their bags. Bud smiled as they all went along on their way. She stared up at the sky and let out a soft sigh.

Flametail watched as the kits and apprentices bounced his way, all the warriors had made a draw to see who would give treats and who would give tricks to all of them. He has been the only unlucky warrior to pull the trick card. He had covered himself with dye to look like a fox to pull off his trick. "Trick or treat!" The kits and apprentices and sang together, the kits followed by their parents. Flametail smiled at them all and yelled out to them in a soft voice "Trick! Better run away from this angry fox! Grrr!" He said and all the kits and apprentices scrambled away, laughing their tails off.

Lilacpetal waited as apprentices and kits bounced over to her happily. Bud had given her little treat bundles to give out to them all. "Trick or treat!" The kits and apprentices all mewed together excitedly.
"Such great costumes everybody!" The she-cat said smiling as she handed out her treat bundles to all of them. "Enjoy everybody! Happy Halloween!" She chirped as they all charged off to the next warrior.

Opaltuft was just finishing setting up all off her candy for everybody. She twitched her ears making sure she was alert for when all of them showed up. The she-cat had just finished helping set up the haunted house they set up in the warriors den for all of them. Helping set up the haunted house had taken some time out of her personal treat giving time. Opaltuft sighed as she finished setting up all of her stuff as she finally heard the patter of small paws coming her way. "Trick or treat!" Kits an apprentices all sang to her joyfully, hoping to get something good. "Take a bundle, one for everybody" She told them, handing them out swiftly so she could go back to helping with the haunted house. "Enjoy everybody, happy Halloween! have a good night!" she said quickly as she handed out the last treat bag.

Riverpatch ran back to his stand as fast as he could as he tagged Opaltuft out of the candy giving. He quickly fixed everything up that he could. He panted out of breath as he carefully arranged all of his stuff. His treats were a little bit different than the rest of the clan's so he was trying to perfect it all to make sure the kits and apprentices enjoyed it. Riverpatch quickly fixed his tray of goodies that the apprentices and kits could pick from. He watch as the kits and apprentices finally showed up "Trick or treat Riverpatch!" They all chirped to him happily hoping for something good. "Take something, one for everybody" He told them as he carried around the tray to every cat. "Happy Halloween! Have a good night everybody!" He told them all smiling as they bounced away happily to the next cat. Riverpatch quickly hurried back to the haunted house as Smokewing tagged him out.

Smokewing hurried over to her station making sure everything was all in order. Smokewing looked around as the kits and apprentices trailed along from cat to cat. The haunted house was looking good so far as the cats all alternated places making sure the young ones got the best out of the day. The swift she-cat decided to organize her treats as she waited for the apprentices,kits and parents to come to her station. She had some prey for all of the cats. The kits and apprentices all hurried over to her hopefully "Trick or treat Smokewing!" They all chirped in unison hoping to get something good to eat.
Smokewing smiled at them all "Here you go everybody" She said smiling, handing out her treats "enjoy, have a good rest of your halloween!" She said smiling. Smokewing watched them all hurry along and she hurried back to the haunted house.

Cometflame sighed as the cats showed up to her station, she was going to be the cat to bring them to the haunted house as she came up with the idea. "Trick or treat Cometflame!" The kits and apprentices all chirped happily, holding their pales and bags they all made together for Halloween.
"Hello everybody!" Cometflame said smiling "I have a different kind of treat for you all!" She chirped "Follow me please, everybody" The deputy lead all the kits and apprentices to the haunted house they had been setting up since this morning. Cometflame lead them all inside the haunted house smiling "Follow the arrows everyone!" She chirped going to her station in the haunted house. The kits and apprentices stared in awe at the haunted house, their were bats hanging from the roof of the warriors den and spider webs all in the corners. The kits and apprentices all tunneled through one by one excitedly. Opaltuft jumped out in a ghost costume, scaring the kits and apprentices. "Follow me to the next part!" She told them once they had all calmed down a bit from the scare. Opaltuft lead them through a bit "follow the arrows!" The told them, leaving again.
The kits and apprentices whispered among themselves as the warriors took turns leading them around the haunted house, they went outside the warriors den to finish the haunted house and followed the warriors around a closed off area of camp. "ooOOoo~" Opaltuft said in her ghost voice "iIiiiT loOOkkkS liiKkeE ttTThE hHhhAAaaUuuuNnNNtTTeeeEEeeDDDdd HhhhOooOoUuuUuSsssSSEeeEe iiiSISSSs ooOOoOvvVvveRrrR~" Opaltuft said continuing her ghost voice.

The kits and apprentices all nodded to each other "Follow us!!" they all chirped together, they had made something for the adults for halloween. They lead them to their small surprise "Surprise!" They all yelled together to the adults, it was a large thank you sign that they had all worked hard on, it had all of their paw prints on it and they smiled happily "Thank you for a great halloween!" They said in unison smiling.
Word Count: 1,231 words

Username: SushiFoxx
Clan: https://toyhou.se/Sushifox/characters/folder:2183891

Quest Number: 2
Response:
Word Count: n/a

Username: SushiFoxx
Clan: https://toyhou.se/Sushifox/characters/folder:2183891

Quest Number: 3
Response: After the long night of trick or treating all the apprentices and kits were all huddled together to listen to a story. Echostar started the story "We respect our elders right?" EchoStar asked the kits and apprentices, they all nodded to her. "But have you ever heard of respecting our ghosts?" Echostar asked again and all the kits and apprentices shook their heads confused. "The past ghosts may be good or bad but they guide us, whether we know it or not" Echostar told them all softly "Our fates are within their paws, our good and bad times are up to them to guide us through them" Echostar said.

The kits and apprentices listened intently to the leader. "We respect them for they have been through times just as rough as us, They helped guide us to this land. They are cats that faced the worst so we can face a better future" Echostar told them "We always thank StarClan for the prey they give us to eat" Echostar told everybody "Ghosts and spirits work with StarClan to send us prophecies to make sure we're safe!" Echostar told them.

The kits and apprentices all nod. "They help us in ways we don't know about, and most of us don't even know how to respect them!" Echostar told all of them. A kit murmurs "Are ghosts really real?"
"Of course little one, Ghosts are often cats who have something they need to finish, whether good or bad!" Echostar told them softly "Spirits are often cats from StarClan who came down to help us! Whether thats guiding us to prey or helping deliver a prophecy!" EchoStar said smiling.
"Do cats ever get lost from StarClan?" A kit asked
"Yes, they might, but that is difficult for them to ever get lost from StarClan, we call them Wander's"
"Where do the bad cats go?" Another kit asked
"They go to a tightly locked up place called the Dark Forest!" Echostar told the kit "Where they can never hurt us again" Echostar said softly.

The kits and apprentices continued to ask Echostar questions about ghosts and spirits interested in what she had to say about this kind of stuff! After all Echostar was the leader what she had to say was interesting all the time! Echostar had lived longer than all the kits and apprentices and had so many cool stories to tell! After awhile all the kits and apprentices had all fallen asleep and the adults had started carrying them back to their nests after a long day full of excitement.
Word Count: 428 words

[Four Sword]

Username: All Along Watchtower
Clan: Clan of the Sea Breeze
Prompt:
1.
"Look at that. Trick or treaters, all the way from the mainland," Cinnamonbreeze purrs from the top of her perch, a pile of pumpkins strategically placed at the entrance of the camp. She stretches languidly on the top, feigning aloof disinterest despite the way her pelt is practically puffed from excitement, before rolling over and snaking her way to the ground. "Well," she says, unable to fight off the grin spreading on her face, "let's give them an experience they'll never forget, for their troubles."

True to her word, the entire camp is, in a word, an experience. Dead leaves are scattered across the ground, piled strategically. Cobwebs stretch in nooks and crevices, especially around the healer's den - courtesy of Ravenmask of course, who had been all too pleased to help decorate. There's more pumpkins scattered and piled about, some carved out with claws, some painted my delicate paws, and still others left plain. A few large and long dead tree branches stick up from the earth, having been shoved in to resemble miniature trees; many of the cobwebs not on the healer's den are strung from their branches. Bundles of dried grasses are also piled strategically, with members of the clan perching on some of them as resting spots.

For a tropical island, it sure... captured the spirit pretty well. Especially with the little bat flying about.

For as much as she might have tried to act foreboding at the entrance, Cinnamonbreeze is ultimately too nice to trick the guests. Her mate, Doespring, and baby half-brother, Aniseflower, wouldn't have allowed anything else from her, anyways; especially since they're the ones controlling the treats in that corner of the camp. Heatherstar and Ternfeather are on their best behavior as leader and deputy; while Heatherstar has a mischievous glint in his eye, Ternfeather only smiles serenely and offers a treat. Fudgefeather is playfully pranksterish in the way young cats like him often are, but who can really hold it against him, and who can really call these "tricks" when they are so ultimately benign and harmless?

It's Hawkfeather you have to watch out for, anyways. But he's grumpy and a loner already, nevermind with strangers. You're probably safe. Probably.

Haywing is as silly and benign as Fudgefeather, but offers treats as well, and is, as ever, a huge hit with the kits, who flock to them even if they're too shy to approach anyone else. Doespring is totally not jealous of this whatsoever. Nectarineswirl goes a little more "hardcore" with her tricks, giving off a perfectly spooky vibe fitting for the season - but even they have treats for those who approach anyway.

Ravenmask.... Ravenmask. Ravenmask, that meat MAY be exceptionally healthy and nutritious for a cat, I know, I get it, they are actually pretty good as treats - but you're scaring the kits with it. I know, I know, you would never do this intentionally, you love kits - but. But. You might want to change your tactics if you don't want to get hit with the "trickster" label.


3.
Of course the Clan of the Sea Breeze believes in ghosts; in some ways, they have little choice but to believe. Physical evidence of their starry ancestors is a little hard to deny, even for cats who want to remain skeptical. After all, if they don't exist, then who is granting the leader nine lives, and new markings as proof of their leadership? How else do you explain the chill in your pelt sometimes when you're all snug in your nest, the whispering whose words you can't discern, the wailing on especially stormy days? How else do you explain the wisps, the cats you swear you saw that are no longer there, who leave behind either no scent at all or a scent that carries no hint of cat with it?

Of course, few believe in the ghosts of the island more than Heatherstar. He was the first to meet the cats of the stars, the one Gull's Wing visited and told to return the cats to the island. He is the only cat who's seen Sage Brush, who knows about the island's ancient sage. Of course he believes in ghosts; he lives with them, still sees them in his dreams. They brush their pelts with him every so often, in both the waking world and in dreaming of the stars. He feels like they are trying to tell him something, something important - but whatever it is, it is too hard for him to discern.

[BigFrog4231]

Username: Bigfrog4231
Clan: The Star Striders
Quest Number: 3

Nimble paws pad against the concrete, jumping over more and more rubble as the black and white tom approaches the scrap yard where the clan cats live. Behind him silent pawsteps followed, a worried expression on the blue cat's face. ``You said they're kind here? Are you sure?`` The blue cat asked, staring at the looming chain link fence. Vlad stopped, turning around, his cape falling to his side. ``Don't worry Casper, these cats are kind. They offer protection to those who seek it. We can stay here for just a few nights to see if you'd like to stay?`` Vlad bumped his flank against Casper, giving them a warm smile as they approached the fence.

Sunspark's head perked up as she saw Vlad slink under the chain link fence, making sure not to get his cape stuck. ``Vlad is here!``, she called out, before bounding down to greet him. ``Finally decided to join, ey? I've been thinking of a good place to build your den, I'm thinking between the pile of monster paws and the loose silver vines...`` Casper gave a worried look to Vlad, then to Sunspark. ``Actually Sunspark, I'm here to introduce my friend here. They are in need of a new living situation for the time being, and I was thinking you all could provide them with one?`` Vlad gestured towards Casper, who gave a nervous smile as Sunspark looked over to them. The she-cat smirks and starts to laugh, making the pair of outsiders frown. ``You're funny, Vlad! Didn't take you for the jokester type!`` Sunspark stops to chuckle when she sees Vlad's scowling face. ``What's so funny? I didn't say anything. This is my friend Casper, they want to stay here for a few days.`` Sunspark stares where Vlad gestures again, and gives him a quizzical look. ``I don't get it, Vlad, there's no one there?``

Vlad chased after Casper, calling out for them. ``Casper, wait! Slow down!`` Eventually Casper stopped, out of breath. Vlad ran up to them, pressing his head against them. ``I don't get it Vlad, why can't they see me? Maybe I've been cursed to be alone forever!`` Vlad frowns and sighs, nuzzling against the ghostly cat. ``That's not true, you have me.``

Vlad crawled under the fence surrounding the Star Yard, desperate for answers. He nodded to the cats he passed before slinking into the Star Reader's den, looking for Cloudedmoon. The old she-cat turned around, confused why Vlad was in her den. ``Cloudedmoon, do you know what's supposed to happen to cats when they die?`` Cloudedmoon smiles and sits down. ``When a cat dies, their spirit travels to Starclan, where they can live a pentiful and happy afterlife. Cats who have commited horrible deeds travel somewhere darker, where they are cursed to live the rest of the afterlife alone.`` Casper's words echo in Vlad's mind after hearing that. ``What about cats who don't go to Starclan OR that dark place after they die? What happens to them?`` Cloudedmoon laughs, standing up. ``That doesn't happen, Vlad. It's either Starclan or the dark place. Why? You've seen a ghost? Everyone knows ghosts aren't real, they're just some tale that mothers tell their kits.``

From that point forward, Vlad stopped visiting The Star Striders as often, angered by their so called 'Starclan' for not letting Casper join. He never told the ghostly cat about his findings, worried it would break their heart even more. The two now travel the city together, vowing to never leave each other alone.
[587 words]

[wildsight]

Username:
Clan: kingdom of khafra

Quest Number: 1
Response:

Tranquil silence rested over those of Khafra, a peacefulness that could only be found during this time of night. With the soldiers patrolling the borders while the hunters searched about for prey, the rest of Khafra was generally quiet. Pharaoh Alani appreciated such a thing - ruling over so many was an exhausting task, some days more so than others. But in the end, Khafra would always count on his final word...regardless if he wanted it to or not. For the tom, such a weight upon his shoulders was undesirable...but he certainly would do his best for them, if only because he was entrusted with it. Even so, he'd still take the peaceful times and allow himself time to relax - in both mind and body.
XXXXAlas, it wouldn't be much longer that such a state of mind existed. His relaxation was disturbed when a cry sounded from above him. Blue eyes snapped open in surprise, before turning to gaze skyward. He met the gaze of a feathered friend, who had begun to descend. His ears pricked with interest as the bird landed, a series of chips and twitters sounding from the winged fellow. Alani sighed as he recognized the calls - cries of warning, danger. It must be something quite displeasing for him to be alerted of such things. Or maybe they just know how quick I am to respond. One's good traits sometimes were their worst downfall. But he couldn't just ignore the plea for help could he? With a heavy breath, the flame-point arose to his paws, signaling for his soaring counterpart to lead him onwards. Best to not keep others waiting.

Alani was quick to make his way out of the kingdom walls, bringing along the trusted soldier Applesnap. He knew the kingdom wouldn't take it very well had he left without some sort of protection - sure, he could care for himself but for whatever reason they hated it when he slipped out of Khafra alone. Besides, at least he and Applesnap were on fairly good terms - so it wouldn't be overwhelmingly awkward. The flame-point allowed for the rosetted warrioress to lead the way, following their messenger.

The bird led them to a patrol of cats who had seemed to have encountered something. Faint voices could be heard, slowly growing in volume as they grew closer. As the distance between them closed, Alani was able to make out more of the situation - and it wasn't anything but pleasing.
XXXXThe patrol had run into what appeared to be a small group of outsiders. Those types of felines were wildcards more than anything. Single outsiders typically posed no threat toward them, however, groups of them could very well be quite the opposite. Groups of outsiders could range from that of a traveling family to a brutish colony that was constantly looking for trouble. Alani quickened his pace to reach Applesnap's side, signaling for her to use caution. The soldier huffed yet seemed to follow his instructions...for now, at least. Once the two had reached those of Khafra, Alani's ears twitched as he picked up on the current conversation.

"Yeah, I get that. But...what do you mean? Tri-" Weaselskip's gruff voice was easily distinguishable, yet unfamiliar voices were quick to confound the flame-point tom. "Trick or treat, silly! Just give us what you have, a trick or treat! It's not that hard, dumby."
XXXXAlani slipped past the opposing cats of the patrol, reaching Weaselskip's side. "Excuse me." He muttered to the spotted tom, before turning to the opposite group of cats. As he saw earlier, it was a small group - only three. They seemed fairly young, so perhaps these felines had gotten lost somehow. Or merely up to childish mischief. "Uhm- excuse me, but what's all this about trick or treat? I..don't think Weaselskip here understands what you mean by that." Alani interjected, blue eyes harboring a curious light. The outsiders cast annoyed glances at one another, before turning back to the Khafra patrol. "Mister, we're looking to do some trick or treating." The first replied, green eyes wide. "Don't you know how that works?"
XXXXAlani paused, whiskers quivering as he tossed the words about. What in Altan's name was trick or treating? He shook his head, before opening his mouth to reply. But before he was able to get more than a breath out, Applesnap had stepped in. "Alright, enough of this nonsense. You three." She hissed, eyeing the group of outsiders. "I'd advise you all to leave before I personally give you a nasty treat." The first of the outsiders sprung to his paws, tail waving about. "Treats aren't supposed to be nasty! Jeez, you're all so dumb. I can't believe-"
XXXXThe soldier cut the young tom off, lashing her own tail. "I can't believe you're still here." Claws unsheathing, the soldier approached the outsiders steadily. "Now leave. Before I tear you to shreds. All of you."

"W-We better go! I think this is all a trick!" The second cried. Only a moment longer was spared before the three turned tail and ran. Applesnap snorted as she watched them leave, turning back to the patrol. "You waste so much unnecessary time." She huffed to Alani, before turning to Weaselskip. "And you. You and your stupid hide. Mere kits are nothing to send a messenger for! How in the lands of Altan am I able to trust you with anything? I swear, if something this stupid happens again I'll-"
XXXX"That's enough, Applesnap. Let's return home, we're done here. Let's all just...take a break and breathe for a bit, alright?" The tom suggested, as he took the lead of the patrol. A sigh escaped him as he led the way back to Khafra. The simplest of things could cause so much trouble sometimes.

But such troubles were far from over. Later that night, Alani had decided to take a stroll through the kingdom. He usually made his way down to the gates of Khafra, which was his current path of travel. The kingdom was still relatively quiet, though he passed quite a few felines out and about as they tended to various duties. Yet as he reached the entrance to the kingdom, his eyes widened. Maplewish stood there...chatting with the same outsiders he saw earlier. With hardly a moment to spare, the tom rushed over to them.
XXXX"Trick or treat!" They called again. The caliby seemed all too fond of the young felines, delighted to be in their presence even. "Oh, is this a game? Can I play too?" She inquired cheerfully. "No, that's not how it goes! You're supposed to-" One of them began, before the leader of the trio cut them off. "Hey, wait a sec. Maybe she could join us. She looks like one of those cats we saw earlier. I'm sure she knows where the best treats are!"
XXXXBy this time, Alani had finally reached the small gathering. His blue eyes flickered over the outsiders, before landing upon Maplewish. "Maplewish. What're doing? These are outsiders, have you forgotten the protocol for such situations?" The flame-point paused, exhaling. "I'm beginning to sound like Applesnap, forgive me. But honestly...I encountered these felines earlier alongside a patrol." He began, attention shifting toward the trio. "They were told to leave but...they must've followed us from a distance."

Maplewish hummed, whiskers quivering. "Oh really? So you brought back visitors? How exciting!" She chirped, springing to her paws. The leader's eyes grew even wider, mind beginning to scatter about. "N-No. They're not visitors, I don't know them one bit. As far as I know, they could be-"
XXXX"No wait! We are visitors and we'd love to have a look around! Could we please, please, please explore your home? And show us the greatest treats you have!" The trio leader piped up, cutting off Alani. The others nodded, pleading with the hunter in the same manner. "Oh, you want treats? To see the kingdom? Well, why didn't you say so!" Maplewish replied cheerfully, waving her tail to signal for them to follow her. And without more than another moment or two, Maplewish and the trio of outsiders had left the Pharaoh behind. He stood there, astonished. And horrified. "No, no, no! MAPLEWISH!!" He cried, before charing after them. This wasn't good at all.

The flame-point was quick to follow after the escapees, blue gaze focused as he made his way through that of Khafra. At every twist and turn, he just caught the tail of one of the outsiders, briefly noticing the occasional glance in their direction. It didn't take him long to eventually find them however - the group had paused outside of a hunters den, where Maplewish was currently…
XXXX"Maplewish, stop! Stop! What in Altan's name are you doing?!" Alani cried as he bounded over. The huntress had begun to give the young trio prey, the three felines more than pleased with each piece they were given. "Oh hi, Alani! I was just giving our visitors a treat or two!" The molly replied with a bright smile, padding over toward the tom. "They seem to be enjoying it, such nice catches. I wonder who caught those rodents anyway, they really have an eye for the best catches!" The caliby winked at the tom, who merely rolled his eyes in response. "Unfortunately, I don't have time to wonder about such things. Do tell me if you find out who it is though." A slight grin, before a more serious expression took over. "Honestly, though. You can't be giving outsiders this kind of stuff. Or even more so, letting them into Khafra. We don't know who they are or where they came from, who knows what or who they could be tied to."
XXXX"Oh, Alani! Don't be so worrisome, they're hardly novices! I'm sure they're just- Hey, where did they go?" A sudden pause as the two felines turned to glance over to where the trio had been...only to find nothing there. Alani's ears lowered as he dashed over to the spot, glancing about wildly before turning to look inside. A couple of moments later he exited the den, only to meet the curious gaze of Maplewish. "They're not here. They've...vanished." A heavy breath came from the tom. The hunter approached him, leaning into him. "Don't worry Alani! I'm sure we'll find them somewhere! Come on, we can search now!" She replied, as she bounded away. Alani stared after her for a few moments, a long sigh sounding from him. There was no time to waste. So, off he went.

It hadn't taken Alani and Maplewish very long to find the trio, soon coming across the sound of cries and screams. With newfound purpose - and concern - the two followed the sounds, ending up at the entrance to Fadedhaze's den. The healer was crouched at the entrance, ember-colored eyes wide. "P-Please! T-Those are important, don't touch them! No wait! Leave that alone, please!" The tom cried, fur bristling wildly. "Come on sir, where are you hiding the good stuff at? All you have is a bunch of smelly plants!" Another voice cried.
XXXXAlani inhaled sharply. He approached the frightened feline cautiously, offering a comforting touch with a paw. "Relax." He whispered, before turning to the wrecked den. "Hey, stop! You're wrecking the place!" He called into the den. "Trick or treat!" One of them cried again, approaching the two toms. "Oh, it's you again."
XXXX"T-They keep asking 'trick or treat.' I-I don't know what that means...they keep demanding it though." Fadedhaze managed to say to the flame-point. The tom's gaze narrowed slightly, ears lowering slightly. "I will kindly ask for you and your companions to leave. Now. You've practically destroyed poor Fadedhaze's home. There's no treats in there." With a glance between each other, the trio began to exit the den. Alani turned to Maplewish. "Alright, I think I've-"
XXXXSuddenly, a yell sounded from behind him. The tom whipped around just in time to see the trio charging at him. He had only enough time for a step or two, as he knocked Fadedhaze out of the way - the trio bowled him over, before skittering off into the night, snickering. "How's that for a trick?!" One called over their shoulder, disappearing from sight as they rounded a corner. The flame-point laid there, stunned. "Oh, Alani! Are you alright...?" Fadedhaze asked, warily approaching the leader. Maplewish watched from a distance, clear uncertainty written upon her face. A grunt sounded from the bright-furred feline. "I'm fine. I'll be better once those outsiders are gone." Slowly rising, the tom turned to Maplewish. "Find Applesnap and tell her I need soldiers. There are intruders that need to be stopped, we need to alert the kingdom. If they haven't noticed already..."

Once Maplewish had left to find Applesnap and alert her of the situation, Alani had set off alongside Fadedhaze to track down the runaway outsiders. There was quite a bit of evidence which made things both fortunately - and unfortunately - easy to track them down. "Oh yes, those young ones came by earlier." Was the constant reply received from those they came across, yet no definite direction. It wasn't until they came across a familiar face - or faces - that they knew they'd found the trio.
XXXX"Explain to me why in Altan's name would you give them that! Those weapons are sacred, belonging to the House of Junud! And you have the audacity to just- give it away?!" A furious cry echoed from up ahead, belonging to that of a rosetted feline. "I swear Weaselskip, one of these days I'll have you eliminated from Junud's ranks." A guilty spotted tom sat nearby, next to Rootsnap, another soldier. Alani grimaced at the situation ahead, quickening his pace to reach them before things escalated any further.

"You found them." The tom stated, once reaching the felines. The trio were currently toying about with one of Junud's weapons, perhaps trying to figure out how the claws worked. "Of course, we did." Came an irritable reply, Applesnap's tail lashing to match her words. "Only problem is, we need to get those claws back. This idiot decided he'd treat them with it." Alani glanced at Weaselskip who tried to offer a smile back, but truly looked disappointed in himself. The Pharaoh attempted to shoot him a sympathetic look, before turning his attention back to the warrioress. "Give him a break, will you? I'm sure we can get it back, but arguing amongst ourselves won't get it."
XXXXNow, the tom turned toward the young felines. His gaze hovered over them for a moment, before steadily approaching them. "Uhm...hello." He greeted them. The young cats turned to him, suspicious. "You again? Are you just trying to steal our treats?" The leader of the three asked, eyes narrowing. Alani huffed, shaking his head. "No. I'm actually hoping to have those back. My friend gave them to you by accident...I'm sure Maplewish would be willing to give you some more prey in return." He offered. The young felines shook their heads. "No way." One replied, before the others sounded their agreement.
XXXXAlani inhaled slowly. He glanced back at the others, who were watching him expectantly. What to do, what to do. He tossed about various ideas in his mind, before he settled on simply asking a question. "Alright, but consider this...if you have anything else you'd like, what would it be? What would I have to give you in return...?" A moment of silence. An annoyed grumble then followed, as the leader of the trio sighed once more. "Trick or treat. Take us trick or treating and we'll give you it back. Only the good places. Deal? ...Please?" The tom stood there for a moment, blinking. "Is that...all?" Gaze flickering over to his companions, he slowly nodded. "Okay. Sure, I'll take you trick or treating." The three felines smiled at one another, springing to their paws. "It's a deal then!"


And so, for the next couple of hours, Alani took the three kits trick or treating. By the time they were done, they'd experienced quite a few tricks, yet had obtained quite a few treats in the process, which made it all worth it. As the felines were herded toward Khafra's entrance, they returned the weapon as promised. "Thank you." Alani replied, with a dip of his head. "Yes, sir! Now onto the next kingdom. See ya!" And before they knew it, the three were gone.
XXXX"Awww, there they go! They were so cute... We should do this more often!" Maplewish exclaimed. "No. I'd actually prefer if we never did that again. Ever." Alani replied with a huff. "Trick or treating is exhausting. And if it involves outsiders...no thank you. But I have to admit...I did enjoy myself a bit." With a sheepish smile, the tom turned and led his companions away. The night had been quite eventful...surely one to remember.


Word Count: 2,828

Quest Number: 2
Response:



Quest Number: 3
Response:

Out among the territory once more were two felines - Rootsnap and Weaselskip. The two toms were frequently seen together among those of Khafra and usually, when they were, it meant trouble would arise sooner or later. So one might ask, would such arise tonight? Perhaps, after all, it was quite likely that such could happen. Especially when one considered the reasoning behind their current journey…
XXXXThe two toms were currently nosing about the rock-filled clearing, presumably searching for something. Rootsnap searched one side, while Weaselskip searched the other. The two turned over various stones, kicking about the smaller ones. After a while of this, Rootsnap raised his head, grunting. "I can't find anything. Are you sure there's some mystical stone here or was I stupid for believing you?" Rootsnap hissed, turning to the larger tom. Weaselskip's whiskers twitched, but he merely grinned. "Oh, Rootsnap. Of course there is! Well...maybe not here, but I'm sure there's one somewhere among the Lands of Altan!"
Rootsnap frowned, huffing. "So you mean to tell me we've wasted all of our time out here for absolutely nothing? Weaselskip, I-" The tabby paused, sighing heavily. "What do you even need that stone for anyway? Do you have some sort of rock collection or something?" The spotted tom blinked, shaking his head. "No...I have ghosts in my den. I think a mystical rock could scare them away."

Rootsnap stared at the opposing tom, blinking rapidly. "Ghosts? What're you talking about? Do you really believe in those things?" He questioned. Weaselskip was silent for a moment, hesitating to answer. "Well...yes? They're a part of the Forbidden Land, aren't they?"
XXXX"Yeah and what's in the Forbidden Land, stays in the Forbidden Land. Why do you think there are ghosts in your den?" Rootsnap asked the soldier, growing curious. "Oh...well, my food keeps disappearing. I'm serious!" He cried as Rootsnap shot him a skeptical look. "And my weapons keep...moving? Some even vanish, I'd say! I'm sure of it!"
XXXXThe opposing soldier shook his head, clicking his tongue. "Alright, well, if you really do have ghosts no mere mystical stone is gonna solve that problem. Come with me..." He replied, beginning to lead the tom back towards Khafra.


"G-Ghosts? I'm sorry but...I don't think healers deal with those things." Came the nervous reply of Fadedhaze. The tom's ember-colored eye was wide as he gazed into the mouth of the den, whiskers quivering nervously. "What'd you mean? Don't you guys deal with this kind of stuff? Whatever, can you just help out my pal here? Can't have him terrified or anything." Fadedhaze eyed the larger tom for a moment. "By any chance...have you gone in there?" Rootsnap paused, gaze narrowing as his ears lowered. "Y-Yeah, of course I have!"
XXXX"He did and he ran straight out when the ghost made noise!" Weaselskip offered. Rootsnap glared at the spotted tabby, shooting the healer a sheepish grin. "He's making that up, I did no such thing."

Fadedhaze sighed, warily approaching the den's entrance. His gaze flickered about the den, as he slowly disappeared among the shadowy shelter. The two soldiers awaited outside, silent as the healer moved about inside, tossing herbs about. Suddenly, the den was silent. A few tense moments later, Fadedhaze bounded out of the den, yowling.
XXXX"It touched me, it touched me!" He cried. Rootsnap whacked the tom's ears. "How? Ghosts can't touch you, idiot!" The healer yelled again, covering his head with his paws. As the tom laid there trembling, he managed to respond to the soldier's words. "If you think I'm such an idiot, you go in there! Such a waste of herbs..."
XXXX"W-What? No way! I'm not getting cursed going in there!" A sudden gasp sounded from both opposing toms. "Cursed?! Do you mean we're cursed now?!" They cried, nearly in sync. "Well...uh..." Rootsnap mumbled, as the toms began to panic.


Suddenly, a new voice interrupted them. "What's all this talk about curses? Is there a problem?" As the three turned to see the new face, they recognized him immediately - Vaporfrost. "V-Vaporfrost!" Fadedhaze cried, scrambling to his paws as he bounded to the tom's side. "There's ghosts in Weaselskip's den and one of them touched me!"
XXXXThe newcomer glanced over the others, who nodded in agreement. Vaporfrost neared the den cautiously, before turning to face those around him. "Well, this is no way to deal with them...if there are any." He began, shaking his head. "Those types of situations need to come straight to me or another cat of Sahar...Alani even. Such could mean horrid news of Khafra as a whole, if the spirit belongs to the Forbidden. If it is merely an ancestor then we don't have much to worry about...I think. But they can certainly bring just as much harm as good. After all, it can be dangerous for felines such as yourselves, especially an ill-intentioned one." Once the tom had believed to have made his point, he turned about and entered the den.
XXXXA couple of moments later, Vaporfrost stepped out of the den, seemingly unharmed. "Did you get it?" Weaselskip asked. The tom shook his head. "Nope. I'll be right back though." Without another word, he dashed off. The trio glanced about one another, awaiting for his return. A short while later, Vaporfrost returned with the hunter, Maplewish. With a few words spared between them, the molly entered the den. They awaited her return curiously, the sounds of occasional scuffle coming from within. And then, she finally returned with…

"That's not a ghost!" Rootsnap cried. Vaporfrost nodded. "Nope, but that little guy certainly had some fun pretending to be one. Had a whole stash of stuff in there, but his size was a little too much for me to attempt to get him out..." The tom sighed. "But there's your ghost."
XXXX"See Weaselskip, I told you ghosts didn't exist!" The soldier exclaimed. Weaselskip huffed, chuckling. "But then why were you so afraid? You told me-"

"Enough, enough of that! Let's...just go now. Thanks, we'll take the rat. It'll make a nice meal, don't you think? Come on, Weaselskip!" The tabby called, snatching the rat from the caliby before dashing off. An amused glance was spared between the felines, before Weaselskip followed after his friend.

Word Count: 1,052

[nindroidzane]

Username: nindroidzane
Clan: FrostClan

Quest Number: 2
Response:

Quest Number: 3
Response:

Before joining the Clan, Moon had not believed in ghosts. She'd heard the stories, of course; the screaming winds, the blank white eyes peering through long dead trees. Her sister, Smoke, bought right into all of it. But it was uncomfortable to think that the dead part of the woods was full of trapped, evil spirits, so Moon had always chalked it up to owls with strange calls, or some lonely fox. The cries still always sent a shiver down her spine, splitting the silence of the tundra in the dead of night. But she had her pack with her, and as long as they were together, she would be safe.

Now she was only surrounded by a rag-tag group of puny cats, and a healthy dose of ghost-centric paranoia. Her mother, leader of the pack, more or less, had sent her off to join their little group, after she and Smoke had discovered whatever was out screaming in the woods also seemed to be cats. Or, at least, something similar. But her mother thought those cats living out in the middle of the snow might know something about it, so Moon had been chosen to investigate - it was an obvious choice, really. Wolves couldn't exactly blend in easily to spy. But she still didn't like it. She didn't like hunting on her own, she didn't like their prickly nests, or their constant chattering.

And she didn't like the way Littlepaw often snuck out to the dead woods, when she thought everyone was asleep.

It was easy to tell who did, and who didn't, believe in ghosts among the Clan. Huckleberry rattled off endless myths his mother had taught him, and Icewing dismissed any thoughts of an afterlife in general. Most cats seemed indifferent to the idea, but with all the stories of "Clan history" and the half-baked explanations hunters brought back from spooky encounters, the Clan seemed to generally lean towards a belief in ghosts.

Littlepaw was different. She didn't start rambling about cats vanishing within the trees like Huckleberry, or hum thoughtfully like Breezewhisper, or even stick her nose in the air and stalk off like Icewing. Instead, her fur would prickle, and she'd shift her paws in the snow. She wouldn't look you in the eye, and she'd dismiss herself as quickly as possible. After a few tests, Moon even caught her glancing off to the distance as she'd walked away, staring off into the direction of the woods. It was obvious this one was hiding something.

But how would she get it out of her? Littlepaw always went awfully quiet when the other apprentices started talking legends and ghosts. Blossompaw knew them all by heart, and Mothpaw loved to learn them - it didn't seem that they even noticed Littlepaw's smile fade, or her whiskers twitch oddly. Maybe they assumed she'd heard it all before. Maybe they didn't even notice.

But Moon had noticed, and she'd noticed the young cat sneak out of camp in the middle of the night at least three times before she'd decided to follow her. It took a bit of convincing herself - apparently being raised with wolves hadn't made her the sneakiest of cats, at least not compared to the other hunters. But Littlepaw had always seemed a bit stuck in her own head, so it wasn't too difficult to creep lightly over the snow, the way Lichenwish had taught her, silently following the apprentice all the way to the woods. She'd thanked the moon for her black and white pelt; she blended in perfectly with the pale snow and dark sky.

She wasn't sure what she'd been expecting to see when they arrived at the outskirts of the forest, Moon laying behind a clump of snow a few fox-lengths away. But a scrawny little tom, maybe around Littlepaw's age, wandering nervously out of the trees probably wasn't it.

At first, she thought she'd had this all wrong. Littlepaw wasn't sneaking out to conspire with evil ghosts - she just had a weird secret romance with some little stray. She'd debated going back and leaving them to their weird little romance, but something still hadn't felt right. A shiver in her fur, just like when Smoke had scented cat by these trees. So she'd waited, and watched, and waited. The young cats just talked, a weird mix between happiness and nervousness - whatever, young wolves in love were like that, cats were probably just the same.

But the more she lay there, fur clumped with snow, the more the shiver grew up her spine. Something wasn't adding up. And it wasn't just that they didn't look like anything more than weird buddies. That cat - there was something off about him. Something about his eyes, his fur, the way he sat. It had only taken a few minutes to realize he was blind, but still he kept glancing briefly in her direction - it was unsettling, no matter how she tried to convince herself it was a coincidence.

It wasn't until he'd risen back to his paws that it clicked. His paws. They didn't make any impression in the snow. Littlepaw, getting up beside him, was making a mess of the fresh snow beneath her, and it was matting up in her fluffy tail from sitting there for so long. The other cat was untouched by the snow, and the ground beneath him looked as perfect as a fresh snow.

Moon gasped silently, digging her claws into the snow. That cat - he wasn't real. He wasn't here. He was a ghost. Smoke had been right. Ghosts exist.

So maybe not everybody in the Clan believes in ghosts. But there are always the Huckleberrys and the Blossompaws with their unrelenting, unsubstantiated faith.

And Littlepaw and Moon, with their own little secrets.

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