[SilentMelody]

𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐧 ♥︎ Archive • Last Explore Post | Last Response Received • [ 580 words ]
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Blueberrynose snaps out of her daydreaming fugue. She turns to the she-cat her heart is forlornly hung up on. "Oh, um, I'm so sorry; I've just realized how hungry I am," she admits sheepishly. "Do you mind if I grab a bite to eat before we head out again? I promise I won't be long." Blueberrynose widens her yellow eyes in a mock pleading expression, sitting back on her haunches to press her front paws together.

Violetnight rolls her eyes at her, much to her heartbreak. A small smile breaks across her maw. "Okay, just don't take forever."

Blueberrynose settles over one of the quails that she caught. She takes a bite and chews on it thoughtfully. But soon enough, the taste turns to sand in her mouth. Her appetite is lost. She found those two quail together—feathered soulmates, always and forever. And she took their lives anyway. Whether it was for the sake of her clan or for her own use.

Should she have offered one of the quail to Violetnight? She scolds herself for not being more polite. When did she ever get so selfish? Blueberrynose sighs and forces herself to finish the quail in a few quick bites.

As she rises to her paws and follows after the patrol, she spots Violetnight conversing with Hydrangeawave and Fogspark. She watches them for a few moments before her brain and her heart connect—a sudden spark. Anxiety ripples through her. She comes to a fatal realization. She's absolutely terrified of losing Violetnight. Not just as a possible lover—if she would ever reciprocate. But as a best friend, the silver torbie has been there for as many moons and as many situations as Blueberrynose can recall.

Most of all, she's too afraid to speak the truth about her feelings. In fear of driving her friend away, she swallows those feelings and stuffs them down to the deepest depths of the ocean. Her heart wrenches at the thought, pounding hard in her chest. For a moment, she freezes on the shore. Her paws refuse to go further.

She's lost in her thoughts again. Then the sand scatters. Blueberrynose blinks, taking in the vision of paws, mere paces away from her. She must just be daydreaming again.

"Hey, are you okay? You seem to be stuck in your head," Violetnight notices. Blueberrynose blinks in slight surprise, looking up at the she-cat. She came back for her. Again? What a selfish friend she is! The self-doubt mixes with the anxiety already rolling through her—a deadly concoction of emotion.

Violetnight gently nudges her side with her nose, snapping her out of those thoughts. "I asked you a question, silly. Where did you go, Blueberrynose? I miss you here on the shore."

Blueberrynose exhales heavily, shaking her head as if tossing away cobwebs from her brain and pushing past the spiders. She plasters a bright smile on her face. "Yeah, sorry... I don't know what's going on with me today. I must be completely useless, huh? Good thing you're such an amazing warrior."

"Okay, weirdo," Violetnight snorts. Affection is laced in her tone. "No one likes a show-off or a suck-up, urchin-brain. C'mon, the others are waiting for us!" She turns away again. Her long tail brushes under her chin playfully.

The blue tortie has no choice but to follow her friend, trotting to catch up to her. The two race to meet with the patrol.

Is it really terrible if they remain just friends?

──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────

━ cats on patrol
Abnormality | any pronouns | HP 100% | HUP 20% | Sick: No
Blueberrynose | she/her | HP 80% | HUP 20% | Sick: No
Violetnight | she/her | HP 100% | HUP 20% | Sick: No
Hydrangeawave | they/them | HP 100% | HUP 40% | Sick: No
Fogspark | they/them | HP 100% | HUP 40% | Sick: No

━ level 5
experience: 265/650
predators/prey & yes to death
active quests: none
monthly tasks: August #1 completed!!

━ notes
Blueberrynose's HUP is now 20% as of this post

━ items in inventory used
1 quail for Blueberrynose

━ prey inventory
eagle | 5 FP | x1
minnow | 1 FP | x3
mouse | 1 FP | x2
quail | 3 FP | x5
rabbit | 4 FP | x4
salmon | 2 FP | x4
scraps | 1 FP | x2
shrew | 2 FP | x2
squirrel | 3 FP | x2
trout | 2 FP | x3

━ herb inventory
alder bark | x2
bindweed | x1
blackberry leaves | x1
borage | x2
burnet | x1
cobweb | x2
coltsfoot | x1
deadly nightshade | x1
deathberries | x1
elder leaves | x2
feverfew | x1
holly berries | x1
lovage | x2
mint | x1
rush | x1
sorrel | x1
stinging nettle | x1
tansy | x2
water hemlock | x1
wild garlic | x1
willow bark | x1
yarrow | x1

[0Zero0]

𝕿𝖆𝖎𝖑𝖑𝖊𝖘𝖘 𝕮𝖔𝖒𝖊𝖙
+ 𝔇𝔯𝔬𝔭 𝔬𝔣 𝔱𝔥𝔢 ℭ𝔬𝔪𝔢𝔱𝔰 𝔗𝔞𝔦𝔩

▓
▓

█ 𝔏𝔢𝔳𝔢𝔩`4 𝔢𝔵𝔭. 456/500XP
Posts || x ♠ x ♠x ♠ x ♠ x ♠ x ♠x ♠ || Last Post Reply [ Archive ]

cat art by OpenClipart-Vectors, banner by ID 12019, border by GDJ, lotus by Clker-Free-Vector-Images [Permission]

Night ♀ Oekaki
❤️️ 100%
🍖 20%
💊 N

Stone ♀ Oekaki
❤️️ 100%
🍖 10%
💊 N

Spoon ♂ Oekaki
❤️️ 100%
🍖 10%
💊 N

Storm ○ Oekaki
❤️️ 100%
🍖 10%
💊 N

empty
❤️️ 100%
🍖 0%
💊 N

empty
❤️️ 100%
🍖 0%
💊 N

Spoon continued to grin wider and wider as time went on, but the silence consumed the two of them. One cat, the large blue candleflame with green eyes, looking hopefully, and joyfully, down at a smaller, but still fully grown, darker blue cat with blue eyes who was seemingly annoyed. At some point during the silence, the annoyed Storm would push his head repeatedly into the chest of the other cat. Over and over, harmlessly but still sure to be slightly annoying for the bigger one. None the less, Spoon allowed it to happen with little response, seeming sympathetic to his friend.

"We are screwed." It was coming from through the white chest of Spoon. Storm had stopped repeatedly banging his head, and had presumed to sulk. "There is NO way were getting it back, we have zero food, and zero chances of getting enough food before winter."

Spoon smiled softly at his partner, gently pushing him away so they could see each other's faces. "Don't worry Storm, we'll find something. You saying we can't talk to them?"

Storm looked up at Spoon for another silent moment. "No. No Spoon. They were aggressively trying to kill me for that bag, and even gave me a warning."

"Wait, they spoke our language! Then there is hope." And with that, Spoon ran off the direction that Storm had came from, it was to late to stop him, as the big cat was so much faster then him with his long legs. That being said, the coyotes would notice him a mile away with every branch he broke from stepping so robustly, and every bush rustling. Storm might be able to sneak up, and take the bag while his buddy distracted them, but that was if he could even find the bag.

In Storm's mind, he knew that while this was a reckless idea, the two would be fine. Spoon was not stupid, while he made some weird, or bad decisions, he always knew what he was doing. So Storm's job was to just stay alive in the process, and accept that Spoon liked to take the hard route out of curiosity more than anything.

~ ♠ ~

Stone was confounded at her mistake, but had stayed with the young black cat the whole time. She was not going to let this fool get away with taking anything more then a moth. If anything she planned to hand her over to the others. Her mind swirled with ideas on how to deal with the situation. If she should wait for the others to come here, or to take the scared rat to them. Her decision had her realize that this little one could never be a threat to them, and that leaving her alone would be best so that she could return to her family.

As she began to leave, Night began to follow her. Slowly, but definitely right behind. "What do you think your doing?" She spat, but didn't look back at the stalker. Instead of giving her to much attention, the feline prodded onward through thick brush, not attempting to lose Night, but rather taking it as if she wasn't being followed.

Night pulled her scarf up as she trotted carefully onward. Her belly still aching from all the movement and fear she had been through. "There... There are coyotes about. It's best to stick together don't you think?"

"If we run into coyotes I'm bound to just leave you behind for them. Perhaps you should go it alone."

This sent shivers down Night's spine. She had been at it alone for so long now, and didn't want to be alone any longer. She needed a friend, and this Stone kitty seemed like a chance to make a new family. A new family that won't judge her for her quirks. After all, the cat hadn't mentioned her scarf in the least. It was a hopeful thought slightly crushed by the betrayal in Stone's voice.

Night hummed for a moment, trying to think of a good response. Trying to think of a way to convince this new 'friend' to keep her around. "Perhaps." Was all she could muster before silence consumed them both as they traveled together. Stone not doing anything to harm, or get Night away from her, so it seemed all fine at least.

Stone eventually stopped near a clearing, sat, and howled like a dog towards the sky. It was like before, as if she could speak coyote. Perhaps it was coyote, and she knew how to lure them near or away from different areas. That would be a useful trick. "Could you teach me that?"

Stone turned to her a little confused. Teach her? "No." she scoffed, not even going to humor her a little. Why would she do anything for this poor stray, they barely knew each other. Still, as they sat next to the clearing. While Night looked around, another howl could be heard. This scared Night, causing her to almost bolt off. She stood on all fours with her hackles raised. Her ears were pinned, her tail shook violently.

Stone seemed to just laugh at this, sat up and carried onward as if nothing happened, prodding into the open field seemingly proud and still chuckling as she went.

Night shouted at her companion. "It isn't funny!" Her fur was still a complete mess, and she remained vigilant despite Stone's behavior. Night creeped forward fairly slowly. Watching her left and right as she did, and thanks to such she avoided being bombarded by a blue blur.

This blue blur was in fact a Large cat named Spoon. He had decided to run with his eyes closed to feel the wind on his cheeks, and since he did not see where he was launching off to, the bumbling fool had found himself tussled with Stone in a fury of fur. Stone hissed, clawed, and even growled at the larger feline while Spoon simply yowled in pain and surprise. Flailing about, the two separated, leaving Stone on her haunches, and Spoon in an awkward sitting position.

"Sorry sorry sorry." Spoon spouted the apology with a great concern on his face, but Stone wasn't impressed. "I didn't mean to I'm honest, I was certain a quick run through the open field would be fine I mean its just such a-"

Stone was furious. With another hiss she stood tall, and in an offensive position. "HOW DARE YOU." Her eyes were alight with fire, daggers of ice, and her teeth bared. "I'll rip you to shreds for what you have done!"

Writers have my permission to do whatever they want with my cats however they want. Have fun

[1098 words]

Monthly Task 1 & 3 completed no Items used

[ FP 2 2 5 1 5 1 2 2]

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𝔓𝔯𝔢𝔶
moths ♠ 1
mice ♠ 2
Squirrel ♠ 3
Rabbit ♠ 4
pheasant ♠ 5

╘═════════╛

╒══════════════╕

ℌ𝔢𝔯𝔟𝔰
Raspberry Leaves ♠ x1 [x]
Sorrel ♠ x1 [x]
Tansy ♠ x1 [x]
Broom ♠ x1 [x]
Lamb's Ear ♠ x3 [x x x x]
Ragwort [x]
Blackberry Leaves [x]
Comfrey Root [x]
Goldenrod [x]

╘══════════════╛

╒═════════╕

𝔓𝔯𝔢𝔡𝔞𝔱𝔬𝔯𝔰
Hawks
Falcons
Eagles
Coyote
Badger

╘═════════╛

death-opt in

[Vivika]

✦ THE ELYSIAN FIELDS !!

xxxxxxx⊰ artmajor ✦ clan archive ✦ last post ⊱

eyes burned into her like a thousand suns.

all-seeing eyes from an abyss of shadows, whose owner pinned her with neither claw nor blade, but an invisible gaze. each glance whittled her down to the roots, grating upon the last dregs of her patience, withering her like the scorch of a midsummer day. scouring skylines and slicing through shadow revealed nothing. whoever watched her had concealed themself well. or perhaps… they were already in her midst.

dark pools of starless eyes met hers. the little ferret snug in hyacinth’s periwinkle curls paused, warm hazel paws frozen mid-braid for a breath’s pause. and in that sliver of time, the winds shivered as if the tethers of the stars had been cut loose.

the curve of lion's snarl's shoulder grazed hers, his chin tipped to the skies.

and like the stories of old, the stars hurled an omen of their own from the skies—a message in a blackened fury of broken wings and shards of glittering bone. the avian crumpled to the cobblestone, all-seeing eyes as empty as an abyss. (+5fp vulture, +1fp scraps, +1fp scraps)

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⊰ patrol status updates ⊱

• all patrollers gained +10% hup

⊰ xp earnings (death opt in/out) ⊱……………

• +60xp for writing, +20xp for patrol
  sent, +14xp for prey
⊰ findings ⊱

• +5fp vulture, +1fp scraps, +1fp scraps

⊰ level totals ⊱

• +94xp → level 6 (424/800xp)


……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………


⊰ notes; welcome back to explore!! love seeing your lore around again <33 make sure to sneak your word count in somewhere for future explore posts; everything else looks perfect! c:
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[blshluhvy]

Hill of Sunflowers
xxx | xxx


Keishi’s tail stood straight out, all puffed up. After a moment, he let his tail go back down, the fur on his spine returning to normal. His gaze went back to Kaen, his voice low and slow. “They’re not in the territory right now, we shouldn’t attack.” His ears, however, were still pinned against his skull. He was still cautious.

Kaen grumbled something unintelligible before nudging Keishi’s hunched shoulders. “C’mon. We can just pass them through the forest.” He watched his paws as he walked, frowning as the grass burned beneath them. He hated it, sometimes, though he couldn’t exactly change that, could he? Eventually, Keishi and Kaen made it to the forest, away from the rogues.

“Seriously, Kaen.” Keishi snarled lowly. “Go. Home.” He stopped, glaring at Kaen’s fiery fur before him. All Kaen did was whip Keishi in the face with his tail, letting out a low laugh. “I’m not going back home, Keishi. If you’re so determined to leave everything behind — leave Evangeline behind — because you’re too stubborn to listen to the Star Readers, then you at least need someone else with you. I’m not just going to be a coward. Who knows when you’d come back, anyways.” He huffed, stopping in his tracks to turn his head back to face Keishi’s stern expression. “Angel loves you. And… I love her enough to make sure her idiot of a mate doesn’t die on her with no word of warning.”

Keishi’s stern expression turned into a scowl. “I told her I was leaving. I’m doing it for her. If I’m not there, Evangeline won’t get hurt. I can prove the Star Readers wrong! I can prove their stupid prophecy wrong!” His voice raised, his tone full of venom. “I’m protecting her, can’t you see that?!” His tail flicked behind him, going lower until it brushed against the flowers surrounding them. He had to will himself to calm down. He couldn’t do anything drastic. “You’re here for selfish reasons, you’re not here to help anyone but yourself.” He spat his words out, a hiss following the statement.

Kaen’s body seemed to deflate at the accusation. Yes. He was here because of his love for Angelhaze, but he was also here because, as much as he tried to deny it all, he cared about Keishi, too. Before everything happened with Angelhaze, they were best friends. Attached at the hip, the Star Readers used to say. “Believe it or not, Kei… I do care about you. Even if I hate you, I care. So, no, I will not go home.” His voice was uncharacteristically soft. Keishi most likely hit a nerve with him.

Keishi rolled his chocolate eyes at the response he got. “Sure.” He sighed, though watched as Kaen reached into the packs slung across his torso, and pulled out two rabbits. He tossed one at Keishi’s feet before lowering himself to the ground and laying down before starting to eat. He made sure to keep his paws away from the rabbit’s body, something about charred food didn’t seem appetizing to him right now.

Keishi looked down at the rabbit at his paws. “Thanks…” He muttered before laying down against Kaen, starting to eat his own rabbit. Neither liked to admit that they still cared deeply for each other. Keishi kept the rabbit between his paws while eating, making sure to keep it close by.
(-2 rabbit)

Once their rabbits were finished, Keishi stood up, stretching his paws into the dirt. “Alright, we should get going before it gets too dark.” He made sure Kaen had stood up before starting to walk. The silence around the two was peaceful. After what seemed like years, there were no arguments between the two of them.

——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

When they reached the edge of the woods, Keishi frowned at the lake that stood in front of them. Keishi cautiously dipped his paw into the nearly black water with a frown. “Doesn’t feel safe enough.” He looked over at Kaen, and whether it was annoyance or concern, he wasn’t sure. “Better go the other way around.” He suggests. Kaen sighed at the suggestion.

“I don’t even know where we’re going. And how long do you exactly plan on staying away from the clan, anyways?” He raised an orange eyebrow towards Keishi’s unsure face, and then continued. “Takes a few days to get past the mountains, you sure you wanna take that long to get to wherever we’re going?” His head tilted as he finished talking.

Keishi nodded, though his ears flattened a little. “Means we have to go through the clan... Though, we could just circle around it, I think... Maybe.”

“Alright, we’ll do that, then.” Kaen turned around, looking at the blackened grass beneath him. He frowned at it. “We should sleep before we start trying to make our way back, ya know? It’s really dark out. Dark means predators, and that’s not exactly a good thing, y’know?” He added a small laugh, trying to hide the nervousness in his voice; the faint howling coming from the forest did not ease his distress, though.

Keishi reluctantly walked back into the forest, the canopy making everything so much darker for them. “Geez.. feels like one of the stories mom used to tell me when I was little. It was fake, I know, it just... feels so real right now.” He shuddered, the fur along his spine standing up. No way was he going to let his guard down tonight. When his legs couldn’t carry him any further, Kaen all but collapsed onto a nice pile of leaves, though they immediately burnt to a crisp and crunch under his paws.

Kaen frowned at the leaves. No matter how many times it happened, he would never get used to it. Keishi, trying to at least have tonight be like when they were young apprentices, laid down against Kaen. He held his breath, waiting for Kaen to tell him to shove off, but it didn’t happen. Keishi let out his breath, and looked over at him. “Goodnight, Kae..”

“Night, Keishi.”

[ # 1,011 ]

━ cats on patrol
Keishi | he/him | HP 100% | HUP 0% | Sick: N
Kaen | he/him | HP 100% | HUP 0% | Sick: N

━ regular predators / prey

━ level 2
experience: 019/300

━ inventory items used
x2 Rabbit

━ active / monthly tasks:
active task #1

━ opted in to death?
yes

━ inventory
Bugs | 1 FP | x3
Mouse | 2 FP | x1
Squirrel | 3 FP | x1

Chickweed | x1
Feverfew | x1
Marigold | x1
Raspberry Leaves | x2
Sorrel | x1
Wild Garlic | x1
Water Hemlock | x1

[elliott.]

HEART OF DECAY
dimi. ★ user's last post

──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────

Leaving the borders of the Heart of Decay was nerve-wracking, and it was obvious just looking at the patrol. Their fur stood up on the end, wary eyes scanning the scope in front of them. Kora and Soot also kept a close eye on Envy, worried about the effects that uncontrollable anger could have on their friend. In the time they had been out past the territory, they had caught a few meals to carry along with them for later, helping things get back to normal, although tension still stayed strung high in the air.
[ + 3FP frog, + 3XP ]

Soot was too worried about her friend that she didn’t notice the fogginess in her head, a coughing fit sneaking up on her, stopping in her tracks as it wracked her body. She coughed until all the breath left her lungs, ears laying flat against her head.
[ Soot is extremely sick! She will need three of the following herbs in order to be healed: lungwort, raspberry leaves, chickweed, mallow leaves, alder bark, burnet. Each post after this one without healing or rest will be -10% health. ]

Envy and Kora rallied around their friend, annoyance and worry coming and going in waves on Envy’s face. “Did that rock get you sick, too? Oh, I’ll tear the pelt off of that cat.” Envy growled, her claws unsheathing to dig into the soft grass beneath her as her pelt prickled in anger.

Kora’s eyes widened anxiously. “Do you think it started a plague?” She squeaked, head whipping around to look at Envy for guidance.

Realizing what her coughing fit had caused, Soot shook her head, standing up a little bit straighter and clearing her throat. “No, don’t worry. I’m fine. Really. Just breathed in some pollen, is all.” She meekly responded, holding Envy’s stare until the other cat’s mouth opened to object.

Both unfortunately and fortunately, Envy didn’t get to speak before a gasp erupted from Kora, capturing the attention of her fellow she-cats. “Dog! I smell dog!” She yelped, her voice a sharp whisper.
[ A dog has been scented by your patrol! Do they choose to confront or ignore? ]

⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯ ★★★ ⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯

XP EARNINGS
★ death opt out

60XP for words
10XP for patrol sent
03XP for prey earnings
15XP for sickness healed
20XP for monthly quest completed
110XP from June quest board

FINAL TOTALS & NOTE
★ [ + 10% hunger for patrol ] ★
★ [ + 218XP TOTAL ] ★ [ level 1 (189/200) → level 1 (407/200) → level 2 (207/300 ]
★ [ congratulations, you levelled up! you have received: 1FP & 1 herb (of your choice)
and 1 common edit! ]
★ [ + 3FP frog ]

[uunicorn]

Spiritclan
Last Explore Post | Last Response Received n/a, first explore post

The warm glow of the sun melted through their fur as the cats wandered through the clearing, ears pointed and alert for signs of prey, a bird sang a chipper tune and the air was crisp and carried a slight breeze that sent flower seeds floating gently across the forest. The group of cats shared in their high spirits as Smokescreech recalled a similar day where they had happened upon a particularly plump burrow of rabbits who had barely even ran, they shared an upbeat sentiment of hope that perhaps they might be so lucky again. Sunstripe wasn't so convinced, the strange metallic smells they had passed earlier gave him a distinct feeling of unease from deep in his stomach.

[ 120 words ]

━ cats on patrol

Snowstar | She/Her | HP 100% | HUP 0% | Sick: N
Smokescreech | She/Her | HP 100% | HUP 0% | Sick: N
Phoenixflurry | He/Him | HP 100% | HUP 0% | Sick: N
Sunstripe | He/Him | HP 100% | HUP 0% | Sick: N
Dawneye | She/They | HP 100% | HUP 0% | Sick: N
Goldentuft | They/Them | HP 100% | HUP 0% | Sick: N

━ level 0
experience: 0

━ inventory items used
n/a

━ active / monthly tasks:
active task #1 (linked)

━ opted in to death?
no

━ inventory
prey | 1 FP | x0
prey | 2 FP | x0
prey | 2 FP | x0
prey | 3 FP | x0
prey | 3 FP | x0
prey | 4 FP | x0

herb | x0
herb | x0
herb | x0

[dimi.]

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Last Explore Post // Last Explore Response

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[1406 words here + 16,348 words on Envy's backstory, linked at the bottom. Word count does not include the synopsis here or on the document.]

[Writers! You only need to read what is physically on this post to respond. There is a synopsis of Envy's backstory on that document if you'd like to read it for some brief context, but otherwise not needed! The link at the bottom is a link to a long story about Envy's background. You guys read a lot already, so you don't have to unless you want to! Also, the patrol just continues walking whilst the backstory is being explained, so they can end up wherever you'd like for a response! ]

Coughing. The damn coughing.

The patrol's walk to the mountain had been a silent endeavor, with Soot and Kora maintaining a distance ahead of Envy. The two murmured quietly amongst one another, occasionally peering back at Envy to check on her. She was normally a well composed molly, who took pride in her ability to not be emotionally frail, and able to tolerate the worst of conditions. But when it was her friends affected by the antics of others, that would enrage her.

As Kora heard Soot begin to wildly cough, her ears pinned back. Envy had already grown enraged by one of her own growing ill, what would happen when she saw another cat coughing in the same manner? Kora's tail wrapped over Soot's back, who continued to cough until she collapsed to the ground. Kora gasped, dropping down with. She whispered soothingly, trying to reassure Soot. Envy then stood before Soot, looking the molly over carefully.

"Envy... what are you going to do?" Kora asked, her eyes widening. "This has to be a coincidence. Soot was no where near that stone that got Zara sick!"

"Yeah, Envy... think I just inhaled a big ol huff of pollen." Soot chimed in, another coughing fit erupting from her. Envy's gaze had dulled, a serious aura washing over her.

"Do we need to turn back, Soot?" She asked, her concern for Soot at the fore front of her mind. Soot wildly shook her head.

"No! It's an honor to patrol with you two, I'm not going back because of some lousy cough! We may just... have to walk a little slower." Soot chuckled, and Envy bowed her head.

"I am glad you two warriors are on my side. Caring, protective, and determined. Thank you for calling the Heart of Decay home." Soot's confidence had calmed some of Envy's nerves.

"But Kora is potentially on the right track. A plague... Do you really think a cat would curse us with that over 1 interaction we had?" Envy asked Kora as she sat on her haunches, her paw resting on Soot's.

"Envy, you have too much faith in cats. Cats don't need a good reason to do anything heinous. If they want to inflict harm, even to innocent cats, they'll do it. I don't understand your leniency on this manner." Kora growled, quivering as she looked down at Soot.

Soot's eyes had grown bloodshot from the violent nature of her coughing, her fur tousled by the vibrations that came with each subsequent cough. Even from this angle, as Soot continued thrashing in pain, Kora couldn't shake one thought she had -- man, she is beautiful.

"Violence won't get us anywhere here, Envy. If anything, us being violent towards the cats that potentially inflicted this could cause even more harm upon our clan." Envy's ears perked up as Soot's coughing ceased, and she rose to her paws, blinking rapidly to flash away the tears welling in her eyes. Not from sadness, just from the sheer amount of coughing.

"Alright... I think I'm ready to move." Soot said confidently. "Let's get a move on while I have this second wind. I'll stay more behind you guys, just in case this thing is even slightly infectious." Envy and Kora exchanged a concerned look before mutually nodding.

"Very well. But if you need to stop, please tell us. And truthfully, we were already surrounding you, so if it is a plague, well..." Envy trailed off, noticing Soot's expression growing anxious. "Sorry. That was not the right way to approach it. I appreciate your concern. Come on now." Envy turned, leading the patrol forward. Kora looked over Soot, extremely hesitant to leave her side.

"I'll be okay, Kora." Soot said reassuringly. Envy had observed the interaction from a distance, noticing something in Kora's body language that piqued her interest. Kora soon made her way forward, ending up at Envy's side. Soot would stay a few paces behind them, just barely out of earshot, with the two mollies alternating gazing over their shoulders to make sure she was still alright.

"Kora, I have something to ask you. It may distract me from my... hateful thoughts for a moment." Envy began, drawing Kora's attention.

"Yeah?"

"The way you look at Soot, and your flirty banter. Are you two lovers?" Envy asked, a hint of playfulness laced within her voice. Kora's eyes shot wide open, the tips of ears burning up from embarrassment.

"No..." Kora trailed off. "That's just Soot's personality. She's a flirt by nature. And... I unintentionally play into it. She's the one cat who forces me to relax. To forget my duties and just have leisure time sometimes."

"I would not scorn you, Kora. Onyx and I have had a theory that you're a thing for a while. Just... wanted to see if our hunches were right." Envy said with a chuckle. "You can confide in me."

"Is it really that obvious that I like her?" Kora grumbled. "Her personality is just perfect for mine. She's calm, relaxed, and knows how to have fun. I'm more serious, and do everything I can to accomplish my duties before anything else. She balances me out so well, but I don't know if she feels the same."

"Well, only one way to find out. Perhaps after this patrol, and after she is healed up, talk to her. I've seen her with you more than any other cat in the clan, and truthfully, her flirting with others has ceased quite a bit with you two together more." Envy cooed.

"Okay, okay, enough with that..." Kora said with a shake of her head. "I'll sort out my feelings another time. Right now, I'm just worried about finding these cats, bringing them to justice, and getting Soot home safely."

"Admirable." Envy remarked before moving forward.

"Wait, not so fast. You got to ask me a personal question, now it's your turn to answer mine." Kora exclaimed, drawing Envy's attention.

"Alright, you've got me intrigued. Shoot."

"Why... why are you so understanding and lenient with cats who attempt to cause us harm? Any other clan would declare war or at least send a patrol to rough up a few of their cats as a warning. But you, you have such stern composure most of the time and refuse to be violent unless it is to defend yourself. Why is that? How are you able to be so serene, yet so ready to fight for your friends only if necessary?"

Envy stopped in her tracks, her eyes widening for a moment. "Well-"

"There's a dog!" Kora would suddenly yelp, her nose to the air. Soot's ears perked at the yell, the entire patrol stopping. "It's just a ways that way." Kora lifted her paw, pointing towards an open field with tall grass nearby.

"We are in no condition to fight a dog." Envy remarked, looking over her shoulder towards Soot. Soot looked in the direction of the dog, her nose twitching as she sniffed.

"Not... not any dog I know. That's a problem." Soot explained. Soot had come from a shelter where she was frequently around other dogs, but it was destroyed by a tornado. Any dog she scented, if they came from the same shelter as her, she would know.

"Envy. How do we proceed?" Kora asked, looking at her leader for guidance.

"We leave it. Reroute away from it. We will start heading left instead." Envy explained before leading the patrol ahead. [The patrol has ignored the dog.]

Kora would rush to Envy's side. "Don't think that just because of a dog you get to avoid my question. Talk."

Envy's gaze faltered for a moment, trying to remember the question before her ears perked. "You're asking why I'm so tolerant of other's poor decisions, essentially?"

"Well, that, and how you're so composed. This is one of the first times I've ever seen you lose it a bit. And not even lose it, rather, just show more emotion than normal. You really care about your clan, and yet, you won't harm anyone who exacts harm on yours unless there is no other choice. Why?"

Envy took a moment to process her question before taking in a sharp breath. "Kora, have I ever told you where I come from? What I grew up doing?"

Kora responded with a shake of her head. Envy, pondering for a moment, nodded her head. "I guess it's only fair I tell you." And so, she would begin to speak of her roots as the patrol pressed on.

Envy's Backstory.

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

━ cats on patrol
Soot | She/Her| HP 90% | HUP 10% | Sick: Y
Envy | She/Her / HP 100% | HUP 10% | Sick: N
Kora | She/Her | HP 100% | HUP 10% | Sick: N

Notes:
Question: Was I right to immediately
subtract 10 HP from Soot? Just making sure
haha.

━ level 2
experience: 207/300

━ inventory items used
none

━ active / monthly tasks:
Write a post where a cat encounters something they're
afraid of: Envy's friends getting hurt due to her
rash decisions, and Kora scenting the dog.
[double XP]

━ opted in to death?
nope!

━ inventory
bugs | 1 FP | x4
squirrel | 3 FP | x1
frog | 3 FP | x1

burdock root | x1
coltsfoot| x2
lavender| x1
catchweed | x1
lamb's ear | x1
sweet sedge | x1
chickweed | x1 [herb of choice]

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[faelyn]

x✧
x✧
x✧
x✧
x✧
x✧

xxshoreclan!
─────────────────── ✧

│
│
│
│

silentmelody & clan • post/reply

original level stats ✧ level 5 (265/650)
new level stats ➔ level 5 (493/650)xxx
──────────────────────────────
• • • • • • x 10% hunger for the patrol
─────────────────┘

there was salt in the cornflower blues of her curls. it adorned every strand, drying in the seaspray breeze into salted flakes the shape of butterflies and turtledoves. shades of ochre and dying stardust wilted beneath the kiss of the sea, its cavernous mouth parting to unveil death incarnate.

because someone was here.
rosewater and sandalwood permeated the salt-stained air, brutally out of place amidst shores the color of ochre and dying stardust. rotting flesh flecked the shoreline… half-eaten and discarded - the mark of rogues.
(a patrol of rogues have been spotted trespassing! does the patrol confront or ignore them? +1 deadly nightshade, +1 cobwebs, +1fp [minnow], +1fp [minnow], +1fp [minnow], +1fp [minnow], +1fp [minnow], +1fp [minnow], +1fp [minnow], +1fp [minnow], +1fp [minnow], +1fp [minnow], +12exp, x2 for all exp for completed august quest 1)

─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────

✧ 035 exp
✧ 010 exp
✧ 000 exp
✧ 000 exp
✧ 000 exp
✧ 000 exp

words exp
patrol exp
predator exp
skirmish exp
npc quest exp
added exp

✧ 010 exp
✧ 002 exp
✧ 000 exp
✧ yes/noo
✧ 000 left
✧ 228 exp

food exp
herb exp
item exp
opt-in exp
free posts?
total exp

✧
✧
✧

fp earned ✧ +10fp─
herbs earned ✧ +4
• [+deadlynightshade]
• [+ cobwebs ───]
• [n/a herb earned]
• [n/a herb earned]

items earned ✧ +0──xx█
• [n/a reward earned]xx█
• [n/a reward earned]xx█
• [n/a reward earned]xx█
• [n/a reward earned]xx█
• [n/a reward earned]xx█

─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────

[Hazelfang]

Last Explore Post| Clan Link |Last Response Received

The morning breeze carried a welcome greeting through the trees. It traveled lightly through the camp, bringing with it the delicate aroma of a pleasant newleaf dawn. Cats slowly stirred in their dens, their yawns a greeting of its own back to the breeze. With the hardships of winter seeming like a distant memory, the cats could look forward to a much awaited peaceful season.

It had been two seasons since Kestrelspirit formed the Kin of the Vixen. There were difficult moons at the beginning, many cats were hesitant to rely on strangers. Especially during the starving and cold moons of winter. For many cats, it was a miracle they could even greet a new morning. Yet, with time and trust built between the founding cats of the Kin and the many loners they had recruited, normalcy slowly creeped its way in the clan. While they would certainly welcome any newcomer that may seek refuge amongst the Kin, many of the cats seemed to appreciate the familiarity amongst the current members of the Kin. Friends had turned to lovers and lovers to kits. It was beginning to feel like a true clan, one with a bond no loner or rogue could have. A bond of true Kinship.

"Come on, Gentlesmoke! I want to go now," an exasperated voice rang out through the camp, breaking the morning silence. A small white cat, only about 8 moons old, came rushing out of their den. Leaves still hung in his fur and small sticks seemed to poke from his tail, but he remained unaware. Or, perhaps, more unbothered by the current state of his fur.

A deep groan sounded from the den, weary and bothered. "Just a moment, Clover," the voice replied, exhaustion tugging at their words. A few moments later, the head of a white cat popped out from the entrance. A dreary look hung in the cat's gaze, matching the tone of the voice that had spoken only moments prior.

"Oh, come on, Peonyfrost. I'm sure you were a rambunctious kit once too," a softer, much kinder voice came from behind the white she-cat. Peonyfrost shuffled to the side, allowing a grey she-cat to crawl her way out of the den. Her soft grey fur shown brightly under the dawn sun. It was pristine and well-groomed, no cat would even think she had been asleep not too long ago.

The white she-cat let out a huff, crawling out of the den behind her companion. "I was never a morning-lover," she grumbled, rubbing her tired eyes with her paws as she made her way out.

The small white cat was bouncing around in front of them, his yellow eyes blazing with excitement. "You two are so slow! We are going to be late for the special mission!"

"That's right," an icy voice spoke from behind the young cat, startling them. A cream-colored she-cat strutted over, her pink eyes stern and cold. "You're already late," she meowed flatly, not trying to disguise the frustration in her voice.

Clover flinched, rushing to hide behind his aunt. The grey she-cat shook her head at the cowering young cat, meeting the new cat's gaze evenly. "Good morning to you too, Myrtlewisp."

The elegant cream-colored cat huffed, her eyes rolling back. "Just hurry up, the rest of us will be waiting for you at the entrance." She turned herself around, her small bob-tail flicking as she did. As she sauntered off to the camp entrance, she mumbled under her breath, "I don't get why I have to travel with a bunch of Marauders."

The older white she-cat pinned hear ears against her head, a growl sounding in her throat. "Don't waste your energy, Peonyfrost," the grey cat meowed softly, brushing her cheek against her's reassuringly. "She just isn't much of a morning cat herself," she teased, a humorous glint in her purple eyes.

Peonyfrost sighed, growing weak as always looking into her mate's loving gaze. "Fine... but let's catch up, or we surely won't hear the end of it." With her tail, she beckoned Clover and Gentlesmoke to follow her towards the entrance. Upon reaching the bramble archway, she greeted the other cats with a friendly nod. A spotted lilac tom nodded back, his green gaze warm and welcoming, a harsh contrast to the annoyed Myrtlewisp behind him. Just behind those two was a black and red she-cat, her expression bored and uninterested. A flick of the ear was her only offering of a welcoming as she turned to face the entrance, clearly ready to leave.

Taking a deep breath, the solid white she-cat stepped forward, her head held high. "Alright, is everyone ready to head out?" she asked, scanning the faces of the other five cats.

Myrtlwisp rolled her eyes once more, "We've been ready... I don't even understand why we are going on one big patrol instead of our usual separate ones." The cream she-cat did have a point, it was unusual for a group with all such differing roles going on one trip. While a Guardian would often accompany a Marauder or a Stalker on their patrols, it was exceedingly rare for them to accompany both let alone a Servus as well.

"You already know why we are doing this, Myrtlewisp," the black-red she-cat replied, shaking her head at the angry servus who turned to glare at her. "It's newleaf, so Kestrelspirit wants us to travel as a group to scout out the land for optimal hunting and gathering spots. We are the most experienced in each role, which is why we were chosen." Her blunt explanation seemed to be enough to quiet Myrtlewisp, who simply nodded in response.

"Now that we have that sorted out, let's head out."

______________


By the time the group reached their first destination, the first blistering hot rays of sun-high were piercing through the veil of forest. The verdant floor was dappled in golden pools of light, as if beaconing the patrol further into the forest. While the warmth was certainly appreciated when contrasted with the harsh winter they endured prior, it was also incredibly uncomfortable as well. Their pads were damp from sweat, causing a layer of dirt to cake atop their pads. Clover shook his paw, grumbling under his breath, "I'm getting tired."

Gentlesmoke turned to face him, her eyes rounding with concern. "Would you like for us to take a small break?" She asked, her voice echoing the look in her eyes.

"Oh come now, he's the youngest of us all. He of all cats should have more energy to continue than us!" the prickly servus huffed, her ear flicking as she looked at the young white tom in an exasperated fashion.

The young cat sheepishly looked down upon his paws, scuffing at the earth. Before he could mew a response, the large white she-cat stepped forward, her eyes like piercing daggers as she glared upon the cream colored she-cat. "Yes, he's young. But he is also inexperienced. This is the farthest he has ever traveled before." Her tail gently moved to rest upon the young tom's shoulders, reassuring him. "As our Guardian, I strongly advise we take a break. A quick bite and some water would do us some good."

Despite Myrtlewisp's complaints, the other cats seemed to agree. Nodding along to Peonyfrost's suggestion. "I still have a bit of energy in me, so I will go ahead and grab us a bite to eat," Violetshade meowed quietly, slinking into the forest before any cat could follow.

Peonyfrost and Gentlesmoke exchanged a glance with the grey cat shrugging in reply, "Well I am going to go ahead and get a sip of water. Want to come with me, Clover?" The soft grey she-cat meowed to her adopted son her eyes filled with warmth and affection.

Feeling welcomed and comforted, the young tom nodded and followed her towards a small creek. "I guess that leaves us," Bumblejoy commented, glancing from Peonyfrost to Myrtlewisp. The hostility between the two cats was suffocating, their harsh personalities clashing viciously. It was evident the spotted tom did not want to be involved in their disagreement one bit as he shuffled his paws on the ground. "You know, I am pretty thirsty myself. I think I will join Clover and Gentlesmoke." With that, he raced off behind the other two cats.

Myrtlewisp rolled her eyes, turning her back towards Peonyfrost as she began searching the surrounding area. As aggravating as it was for Peonyfrost, she had to admit that the snippy servus was incredibly good at her job. Despite the fact that she trained all of the current servus personally there was no cat who could match her medical expertise. Not even the Sybil Superior herself, Larkblossom. It was as if she were born to become a servus. If only she could have the personality to match.

"I am going to patrol the area a little," the white cat meowed. Her words were met with silence, only a small twitch of the cream-colored cat's tail nub. Though she had expected as much as she had already begun to walk away.

The forest was quiet despite the newleaf sun blazing high above. All the creatures seemed to be at peace, perhaps as relieved as the Kin are to finally be free from the wicked grasp of winter. The snow had melted so quickly, one wouldn't know it was even winter if it weren't for the trees still filling with leaves and the winter hares that still have bits of their glistening white coat. At least for these first few days, hunting hares would be far easier than normal.

Peonyfrost paced around their rest area, letting her mind wander as she took in her surrounding. As a Guardian, her responsibility is to ensure the safety of the Kin she travels with. While they were still within their territory, it was imperative she remained on guard for any sneaking rogues or passing foxes. With her nose turned up to the air, she inhaled deeply. The warm, inviting aroma of a forest brimming with prey filled her nostrils. Her stomach let out a quiet growl as the smell of fresh kill seemed to grow closer and closer. She followed the smell, her nose twitching as she walked along the grass. Soon, a soft rustle in the nearby bushes caught her attention.

Out of the overgrowth approached Violetshade, a plump grey squirrel dangling from her jaws. The younger cat's eyes flashed under the sunlight, her gaze cold yet mysterious. She held an immense amount of respect for the younger tortbie, appreciating her quiet demeanor. She was a skilled stalker as well and never failed to do her work, even without the influence of her rambunctious legatus. "Nice catch," she meowed encouragingly, hoping her stomach would spare her the embarrassment of growling at this moment.

A brief nod was all she got in return as the she-cat stepped forward and dropped the squirrel at her paws. Without saying a word, she turned back around and slinked into the overgrowth once more. Her long tail the last bit that could be seen as she disappeared. "I guess I will bring this back to the other," Peonyfrost murmured, lifting Violetshade's catch into her jaws. Doing her best to ignore the pangs in her belly, she began to walk towards where she had left Myrtlewisp.

It was not long until she reached the spot, pleasantly surprised to find Gentlesmoke and Clover laying together sharing tongues. A purr rumbled in her throat as she approached the two cats. The younger white tom seemed to notice the prey first, as his nose began to twitch as Peonyfrost steadily got closer. In an instant, his amber eyes lit up, "Wow! Did you catch that, Peonyfrost?"

She shook her while dropping the plump prey in front of her mate and adopted son. "Violetshade did. I believe she is out hunting for more still."

The grey she-cat beside Clover let out a deep purr, "What an incredible catch. I am sure it will be delicious."

"Certainly," she nodded in agreement, her eyes scanning their resting spot. "Did Bumblejoy not return with you two?"

"No, he said he was going to explore a little further," the soft grey cat replied softly. As she spoke, a loud growl sounded from Peonyfrost's stomach. Heat flushed to her cheeks as she coughed, hoping to hide the sound of betrayal rising from her. A smile tugged at Gentlsmoke's lips as she gazed upon her mate, "Are we hungry?" she asked teasingly, pleasantly enjoying her mate's embarrassment.

With a huff, she looked away, "Maybe a little."

Gentlesmoke let out a mrrow of amusement as she motioned with her tail, "Well then come here. How about you take a few bites?"

For a moment, she hesitated. She hadn't intended to eat until she was certain the rest of the cats had sufficient food first. However, the squirrel did look temptingly delicious. And besides, she couldn't protect her Kinmates on an empty stomach. With a decided nod, she sat down beside the two cats and took a large bite of prey. She couldn't help but let out a delighted purr as she chewed on the delicious morsel. Warmth coursed through her body, her stomach growing satiated with each bite.

"Delicious, right?" Gentlesmoke asked, the teasing glimmer still abright in her eye.

"Mmm-hmmm," she replied with a mouthful still in her mouth. The grey she-cat let out a soft giggle upon hearing her muffled meow.

A louder purr escaped her as she opened her mouth to speak once more, "You looks so happy. I always knew you were a-" before she could finish speaking, a loud shriek shattered the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding forest. In an instant, Peonyfrost was on her paws, her head swinging wildly as she attempted to locate the source of the noise.

"Wait here," she meowed sternly as she raced towards the echoes of the distressed voice. Her heart pounded with each pawstep as guilt coursed through her veins. She knew she shouldn't have stopped to eat. It was reckless for a Guardian to let their guard down, especially when all of her Kinmates weren't safely in sight. The peaceful newleaf air had lulled her into a false sense of safety, bringing her defensive walls tumbling down. Yet, she couldn't let her regret distract her from the task at paw: to protect.

With a renewed sense of resolve, she raced faster. However, it wasn't much farther she had to travel before she came face-to-face with the one thing she wished more than anything she would never see again. It felt as if a pit of fear opened in her stomach as a chill rushed down her spine. The fur along her back and top of her tail was raised as she felt herself paralyze in fear. Standing before her, with glistening white teeth and razor sharp claws, was none other than a vicious coyote. From just a tail-length away, Myrtlewisp was laying on her side. A large gash along the side of her flank was oozing as the she-cat took shaky, labored breaths.

As the scene unfolded before her, she felt icy dread hold her still. Her paws were glued to the forest floor, unable to move as every fiber of her being was petrified by the creature. Vivid memories flashed in her mind. Paws flailing. Teeth shredding. Echoes of horror against a moonlit sky. Memories that had tormented her for seasons upon seasons had all returned, bringing to her what could be defined as her worst nightmare to life.

The creature didn't seem to notice her, its gleaming brown eyes focused on the hunched form of the injured servus. A treacherously ravenous glimmer shone in his gaze as he licked the saliva oozing from his jaws. A satisfied growl sounded from his chest as he opened his jaws, ready to lunge at Myrtlewisp once more. Just as he raised his head, a shrill hiss sounded from the bushes behind Peonyfrost. "Get away from here!" The voice brought the white she-cat's heart to a stop. Gentlesmoke...

From the corner of her eye she could see her mate's grey figure leap towards the brown creature. With claws outstretched, she managed to hook herself onto his shoulder. The coyote let out a cry in shock, unprepared for the attack from the furious she-cat. The two figures rolled on the ground, scratching and biting at one another. It wasn't long before the shock wore off from the canine creature. Regaining its composure, it managed to grab the grey cat by her leg and pull her off his back in one swift movement. Peonyfrost flinched hearing her beloved mate's body thud against the ground, her small body flailing to get free from the coyote's grasp.

"Peonyfrost! What are you doing?!" another voice spoke from behind, much younger and trembling in fear and shock. Clover stared at her with wide, distressed eyes. "Save her!" he yowled, looking desperately at his adopted mother.

From within her chest her heart was pounding rapidly. Thoughts whirled like an uncontrollable storm tearing through the usual fortress of her mind. As if every wall she had created within herself to forget those awful shadows of her past were nothing but crumbled dust. Shattered upon the impact of reliving her worst nightmare. To see someone she loved be ripped away from her by such a vicious creature once more.

There's still time... Don't forget your promise... a muffled voice spoke from within, almost entirely enshrouded by her own panicked thoughts. Save them. save them like you couldn't do before, the voice continued, pushing through the flood of her emotions. It was as if she were being split in two: the part of her that was too afraid to move and the part of her urging her to race forward.

Another yowl broke her from her thoughts, forcing her attention back to the horrors before her. The coyote had managed to completely pin Gentlesmoke down, his sharp teeth hanging dangerously close above her. In that moment, the grey she-cat turned to look at her mate. Fear flickered in her gaze along with an odd sense of resolve. As if she was terrified of death, but didn't regret her decision. That moment, that exchange of gazes is all it took to snap her completely from her paralysis.

Swiftly, as if being carried by the wind, Peonyfrost leaped into the air. Just as Gentlesmoke had done, she landed square on the coyote's shoulders. Sinking her claws deep into the brown fur, she could hear the coyote yowl in pain and frustration beneath her. Evidently annoyed that yet another creature was coming between them and their meal. The creature tried his best to shake her off, swinging his body side to side like a crazed rabid animal. As he swung himself around, his movements became suddenly much more frantic and desperate. No matter how hard he tried, the white she-cat refused to let go.

"This is for Melody," Peonyfrost let out a vicious hiss before sinking her teeth into the back of the creature's neck. The coyote howled once more, collapsing onto the ground from the weight of the pain. Yet, it was too late. From beneath her teeth she could feel the coyote slowing down, his body seeming unable and unwilling to continue fighting. Only after a matter of moments did he finally stop moving, limp beneath the weight of the furious guardian. "Good riddance," she spat once freeing her jaws from the creature's neck.

Slowly, she turned away from the coyote, panting as she searched around for Gentlesmoke. However, Clover had already beat her, his small white body huddling over his aunt nervously. "Gentlesmoke?" he asked, the tremble still in his voice as he prodded her side with his paw.

The grey she-cat's breathing was labored, but steady. She opened her eyes wearily to look upon the younger cat, purring reassuringly, "I'm okay, Clover... Go help Myrtlewisp and Peonyfrost." The young cat hesitated briefly, unwilling to leave her alone. But with a gentle tap of her nose against his paw, he reluctantly stood up and made his way to Myrtlewisp.

Once out of earshot, Peonyfrost lowered to her mate's side, resting her head against her's. She inhaled deeply, taking in her mate's scent. It was warm and pleasant, as she always remembered. "I'm so sorry... I should have moved quicker," she whispered, her voice cracking from the tears threatening to spill out.

The grey she-cat looked up at her, her purple eyes as kind and affectionate as ever. "You did it, Peonyfrost. You saved us."

Her words struck her heart like a stone, sending the tears pouring out. The two she-cats kept their heads pressed together as she sobbed violently. She's right...I saved them... "Thank you..." she murmured between sobs, the words sticking to her throat like honey.

Gentlesmoke slowly shook her head, gently licking the space between her ears. "Of course, my love. You're safe now. We're safe now." A peace seemed to fall upon her shoulders as she listened to her mate's reassuring voice.

Taking a deep breath, she slowly pulled herself away from her mate. The sun still shone brightly in the sky, warm and inviting. Juxtaposing the blood-stained earth surrounding the group of cats. Yet, despite what had just occurred, Peonyfrost felt strangely lighter. As if a weight she held upon herself for far too many moons had suddenly been lifted.

"You're right. We are safe," she meowed steadily, gazing up into the bright blue sky. "We should go back to our shelter and rest. I'll be sure to stay watch."

[ #3613 words ]

-- cats on patrol
Clover{meadow} | he/him | HP 100% | HUP 0% | Sick: N
Violetshade | she/her | HP 100% | HUP 0% | Sick: N
Gentlesmoke | she/her | HP 100% | HUP 0% | Sick: N
Bumblejoy | he/him | HP 100% | HUP 0% | Sick: N
Peonyfrost | she/her | HP 100% | HUP 0% | Sick: N
Myrtlewisp | she/her | HP 100% | HUP 0% | Sick: N

-- custom predators / prey
n/a
-- notes
Redeeming quest board XP <3
~April Quest Board
~May Quest Board
~June Quest Board
~July Quest Board
I also completed all three of Wahoo's August tasks! <3 For task 3, Clover is Gentlesmoke's nephew and adopted son (Peonyfrost is his other adoptive mother).
Thank you~!

-- level 3
experience: 154/400

-- items in inventory used
n/a

-- active quests:
n/a

-- opted in to death?
no

-- inventory
bugs | 1 FP | x8
scraps | 1 FP | x1
small fish | 2 FP | x1

stick | x1
broom | x1
honey | x1

[Aktori]

WaveClan
[url=link]Last Explore Post[/url] | [url=link]Last Response Received[/url] (N/A - first explore post)

The morning new leaf sun was just about to rise in the horizon when Riverstar was woken up by her companion chicken named dandelion. "Dandelion, I was having the most wonderful dreams where I was catching so much prey to feed the entire clan.....wait.... why dream about it when I can make it real?" She looked at her companion with her wide green eyes. "Bawk, Bawk," Dandelion responded, pecking at the ground. She must be hungry too. 

"Let's go out, I may as well take you with me for patrol but if we see any danger, fly up into the trees or hide in the nettle bushes!" Riverstar demanded of her pet chicken. "And follow closely." 

"Bawwwwk, bawk." Dandelion said, fluffing up her Feathers and racing outside. 
Riverstar inspected the fresh kill pile to only find it empty, a good thing she was planning on going out for patrol this morning. 'Who else should I take out for patrol?' She asked herself. She scanned the clearing, most cats were still asleep and by the looks of it the dawn patrol hadn't been sent out yet. 'Good timing!' She thought to herself. She heard some rustling coming from the bushes near the camp. Alert, she fluffed herself up making herself look more intimidating to the possible threat. She scented the soft gentle breeze and lowered her guard down when she realised it was a cat from her clan. A cat appeared a few seconds later. 

It was hazelight, the newest member of waveclan. He used to be a loner who lived in the big light tower. He said it was so the boats wouldn't crash into the land, whatever boats are. "Hazelight!" Riverstar greeted him with a flick of her tail.

"Greetings, riverstar." He nodded at her. An angry bawk followed his greeting, "oh and greetings dandelion!" He quickly added on. 

"Would you like to go on patrol with me?" Riverstar asked hazelight. Hazelight quickly nodded and riverstar led the way followed by dandelion and hazelight. 

"How are you adjusting to clan life?" Riverstar asked, making sure he was settling well into clan life. 

"It's a bit hard, I must admit... hunting for other cats wasn't something I'm used to at all, and sharing dens. That's why I was in the bushes when you found me.... I found it hard to sleep with all the snoring coming from the warriors den." 

"The clan will help you to learn to live with other cats. It will take time, you've only joined a moon ago." Riverstar reminded him. 

"Have you explored the territory yet?" Riverstar asked him. 

"Ummm, I haven't really. I just go where the patrols send me but I haven't scouted the full territory yet, I don't think." Hazelight responded sheepishly.

"It'll take some time exploring every area of the territory, we should start by the beach, near where we found you." Riverstar suggested, taking a swift turn and heading towards the beautiful sounds of the waves. 

Hazelight raced after Riverstar as they went to explore the beach. However, as they arrived at the beach Hazelight seemed afraid of something. "Sometimes, we hunt for fish in the shallow waters, never go too deep and watch the currents. Sometimes cats get swept away. Always be on guard." Riverstar warned him. "How are you with water?" Riverstar asked him curiously. 

"I'm..... I'm not really good with going into water. Honestly, I'm terrified of it." He mumbled out, fear reflecting in his eyes as he stared at the endless water. "Would you like to overcome your fears?" Riverstar wondered, her voice as calm as the ocean breeze. 

"I...I guess?" Hazelight responded back to her, a bit shaky. 'I hope she doesn't ask me to swim...' he thought to himself. 

"Let's do a small exercise today. I want you to follow me, if you can." Riverstar led the way onto the soft sand dunes, bounding up sand with every leap until the sand became hard underneath their paws. The waves lapped at the sand. Hazelight did his best to follow but stopped when they reached the edge of the soft and hard sand. Dandelion was happily frolicking in the sand dunes, with a happy cluck, she stretched her wings and had a dust bath. 

"I'd like you to come to where I am." Riverstar asked kindly. Hazelight stared at her with big eyes and followed her. She was sitting where the sand meets the water. "Take a deep breath, and let the waves lap at your paws. You'll be safe." Riverstar gently reassured him. 

He took a deep breath, focused on the gentle ocean breeze, and let the waves lap at his paws. His fur fluffed up as he was terrified of the water and leapt up into the air when the water touched his paws. Riverstar gazed at him and said "It's okay, it's a great first step if you want to get used to water. Otherwise, we do have warriors who only hunt on land."

"You could've told me that earlier!" He mewed like a kit just came out of the nursery. “Can we go back to the bush?” He asked demandingly. 

“Sure, I'm sorry about that but I had to see for myself. You don't have to touch water ever again.” She reassured him with kindness in her gaze. They went to the bush where they met up with another patrol. 

[ 899 words ]

━ cats on patrol
Riverstar (+ Dandelion) | she/her | HP 100% | HUP 0% | Sick: N
Hazelight | he/him | HP 100% | HUP 0% | Sick: N

━ custom predators / prey
n/a

━ level 0
experience: 0

━ inventory items used
n/a

━ active / monthly tasks:
active task #1 - Hazelight is afraid of water
Active task #3 - Include a small doodle with your explore post

━ opted in to death?
no

━ inventory

N/A