The Starcave

[Abyssopelagic]

Coldamber walked to the Starcave alone, for the first time since she'd been named Medicine Cat. The air felt heavy as she made the trek. She'd never been so reluctant to come to a meeting.
As she finally stepped into the cave and looked at the other gathered Medicine Cats, her eyes laid upon Snakepaw, without his mentor and Ebonyfang, new apprentice at his heels.
It seems much had changed in the other Clans as well.
She dipped her head to Ebonyfang and his apprentice and then turned to sit with Snakepaw.
"You seem troubled, Snakepaw. Do you want to talk about it or would you rather try to not thin about it?"
She wouldn't be addressing Frostpaw today. She was too tired and too upset as it was. She wanted to at least pretend everything was normal before she had to tell the others about Snailswirl's choice.
Rani Angelique Fletcher Zesty Mango

[Moon Lily]

[ Angelique Zesty Mango Fletcher Rani Rainquail implimm ]

The blue-grey molly struggled up the last length of the rocky ascent, jaw clenched in frustration. Stupid... She clawed at the frozen dirt, catching a glimpse of the cave a few fox-lengths ahead. darned... Her disfigured limb nearly buckled from the strain. Star-cats...
Reaching the crest of the hill, she allowed herself several deep breaths. This exercise wasn't solely to ensure she wouldn't die on the spot; although she might as well. You could see it plainly on her face. She was nervous.

As the she-cat scouted her way through the tunnel, she paused in the void. You should go back, her conscience urged, they don't want you here. But her exchange with the Hag had consoled her jittering nerves to some degree. She wasn't going to back down from this opportunity. And besides, she didn't want to live with the thought that if the clans went extinct, she could have done something to help them.
And so she endured the rest of the black hallway, greeting the dimly lit cavern with a nostalgic smile. Her heart fluttered in her chest as she met the eyes of her former colleagues. Well...most of them.
She found herself unable to look at the black tom for more than a moment.

But she wasn't with him, this time. She was on her own.

Irisflame gulped and attempted a sheepish smile.
"Miss me?"

[Rani]

Ah other cats. Great. Snakepaws tail lashed as he tensely stood waiting for a response and lashed more when the shadowclan cats arrived. Great he got to be unprofessional in front of them now because on this, today was going great. Sure he relaxed that no one seemed to care or comment (not new no one liked Frostpaw) but still obviously wasnt in the best of states. Regardless he let his fur flatten and shifted focus onto the newcomer the only cat present younger then him and not by a lot and introduced himself.
"A new shadowclan medicine cat? Or medicine cat apprentice at least? Well Im Snakepaw riverclans medicine cat apprentice, my mentor Sparrowskip isnt going to be here today for reasons that are none of your business, but its good to meet you. Word to the wise dont listen to anything Frostpaw says she's full of it"
The little thing was rather lean wasnt he, even when compared to Snakepaws lanky and long frame and the tom had no clue what was up with his eye but he refrained from judgement on that alone. Gods knows Coldamber was missing a leg, Rainywhisker was old and semi blind and Snailswirl had that weird breathing issue so herb knowledge was obviously more important than any potential health issues.

There really was no time for response before Coldamber arrived though and Bouncepaw was forgotten because stars Snakepaw was happy to see her. "Coldamber!" He actually smiled trotting up to her and actually kind of leaning on her as he sat beside the older molly "You're ok! Sootstar said things in windclan were.... Well I was worried and am glad to see you now. Things havent been the best lately but thats probably nothing given everything. We can hang back and talk more after the meeting if you want?" He really didnt want to air out all of his issues in front of the rest of the group but was more then willing to spend extra time to talk to Coldamber about it later.

And then there was this cat interrupting things. She wasnt anyone Snakepaw recognised but he really didnt know many cats outside his clan. "Sorry who are you?"

Angelique Zesty Mango Fletcher Moon Lily Rainquail implimm

[Mango]

Angelique Fletcher Moonlily Rainquail Rani

Frostpaw spun around to face Snakepaw,” Go back to camp, Fakepaw. Apprentice’s can’t leave camp without a warrior, I’ll bet you’ll be demoted back to kit for not just leaving camp without a warrior, but leaving the territory without a warrior. Gosh, I forgot how weak and helpless you fish are. I’m amazed you’re surviving this long out o the water. Oh, Irislame...what, did Dawnstar decided she needs to be the best in everything and have three medicine cats now? I’ll be sure to have a word with Starclan about this. ” she softly growled lashing her tail and narrowing her eyes at Snakepaw and Irisflame. She didn’t mind Oldrambler and Boneyfang, she didn’t know much about this new apprentice of Boney’s or where Flailcurl and Narrowtrip were, but frankly she didn’t care.

[Fletcher]

[ Angelique Zesty Mango Moonlily Rani ]

Bouncepaw

Bouncepaw swallowed, looking back and forth between the two arguing cats. He was mildly impressed at Frostpaw's deep repertoire of insulting names she had for the other medicine cats, though didn't quite understand the hostility. Moreover, he was...more than confused as to why a cat that looked like she could already be an elder donning an apprentice's name- and an attitude to match...

He kept that to himself, though.

He gave a polite glance to both Snakepaw and Frostpaw, "It's n-n..nice to meet you both..." he murmured amongst the piercing glares.

He had no reaction to Irisflame's entrance, as he wasn't aware of her existence. He nodded towards Snakepaw as he questioned who she was.

[Madelaine]

Ebonyfang didn't like that everyone was talking all that much at the same time. He didn't know who to listen to. The tom looked at his apprentice. "Bouncepaw here is the new medicine cat apprentice as you know. Its really my place to tell you.", he meowed, biting back a growl. It wasn't towards his Bounce though. The tom was calm up until he saw Irisflame. He was glad to see her without actually showing it. She was a fun cat to talk to, but that was all. He knew what he was doing. "So where exactly have you been? You just up and left the clan.', he growled.

// Zesty Mango; Rani; Fletcher; Moon Lily; Rainquail; implimm; \\

[Rani]

Wait Irisflame Snakepaw recognised the name if not the cat, she was medicine cat before Ebonyfang and her resigning (though now he doubted it was willing) occurred around the time he was appointed medicine cat apprentice. Whatever her appearance and issues with the others didnt matter when compared to his need to tear Frostpaw a new one, and if Bouncepaw was gonna cower from a simple argument that basically occurred every time the group met up he didnt have the backbone to be medicine cat.
"Are you stupid or something youre an apprentice too! Wheres your keeper or mentor old lady at least I can be trusted to be on my own while you need to be monitored at all times to not cause a disaster! And please me being demoted is about as likely as you actually doing something important with your life! Id resort to calling you names in return but I wont stoop that low and I doubt any name calling can match the shame of your actual name Frostpaw." The weak and helpless comment rankled though, Snakepaw still had no battle training and only one half remembered hunting lesson from his mother when she took him out of camp as a kit. He was kind of weak and only counter balanced it with sheer anger and drive but Frostpaw couldnt know that.

"Weak and helpless?! I'll show you weak and helpless when I rip you to shreds! Youre all talk and no meat though I doubt you'll actually do anything coward you've never had any ability to back up your bluster." He didnt lunge immediately though more off got up in the older cats face as his tail lashed and he hissed at her.

Angelique Zesty Mango Fletcher Moon Lily Rainquail

[Moon Lily]

[ Angelique Rani Zesty Mango Rainquail Fletcher implimm ]

Irisflame could hear the vibrant chatter quieten as unfamiliar faces stared at her in confusion. A few gazes glittered with curiosity, and one very familiar pair of frosty orbs were screaming obscenities at her. She still refused to turn her maw towards Ebonyfang. It wasn’t as though she needed to; she could feel the blistering fury in his gaze.
A hot coal dropped into her stomach, setting her aflame with guilt—Why should you feel guilty? He doesn’t know you or your struggles. She met Boney’s fire with a cool stare, then ripped herself away from the momentary staring contest, seeing as it would get her nowhere, and instead focused her gaze on the others.

”Amber. Nice to see ya again. Slick’s not with you this time, hm? Last time I saw him, he decided to make friends with the wall,” She purred good-naturedly, thankfully uninterrupted by the Thunderclanner’s provocative growl. She just barely held onto her smile, and sanity, managing not to hiss at Frostpaw. ”Huh, still a jerkass, Wretch. Must be tiring.”

She turned her gaze towards the pair of new faces, one...Riverclanner...and one Shadowclanner. Her ears pricked up in interest at the skinny tom, who looked to be a nervous wreck.
”Irisflame—though I don’t care what you call me. It’ll prob’ly be true. Snakepaw—” Sniper. It suited him. ”—and Bouncepaw,” Jitterbug. One-hundred-percent. “Correct?” She inquired, shooting daggers at Wretch, who threatened to interrupt her. She wanted to get somewhat friendly with the motley crew. She used to be one of them, after all.

Perhaps she should have worried more about Ebonyfang, who seemed less-than-joyful now that she was here. And for good reason.
”I had to leave. Dawnstar was going to kill me, at any rate, and I was retiring. I was going to become a queen, Boney. Can you imagine? Me, a queen. Pft. Besides, you had the ‘med duties under control, Dawnstar couldn’t care less whether I lived or died and I...had a few loose ends to tie up. Problems to sort out. I have a life, Boney. I’m not only good for scaring kits before they go to bed,” She explained to the best of her ability, hesitating at parts. She just hoped the joke would be well-received. ”For what it’s worth...I missed you. I really did.” She murmured fondly, a soft smile warming her sharp lines.

You failed him, her conscience reminded her helpfully. She prepared to rebut the statement, her defenses sliding themselves up—and found herself choked. Because it was true. And because of that, things would never be the same between them. Or anyone, she reasoned. Searching his gaze, all she found was fire and frigid cold. Boney...what happened to you? She resisted thinking that he’d gone full ‘Ice-clone’.
So much had changed since she’d been gone. It was almost worth running off again. But she wouldn’t. She had promised too many cats that she’d stay. And she was nice enough to keep her word.

[Abyssopelagic]

"I look foward to seeing how you'll fit into your new role, Bouncepaw."
Coldamber gave them a genuine grin.
Despite the current situation in WindClan, she knew she couldn't take it out of these two, as she couldn't know if they had been in on this or if they approved. Ebonyfang was a good guy, though, from her experience and doubted he would have been ok with this.

Coldamber looked at Irisflame, unsure of how to feel about her reappearance. She'd been.... a nice cat to know. A calm that ShadowClan had very much needed.
"I.... hello again."
She gave a curt nod, acknowledging her.
If Irisflame had ended up a queen.... it would have made the two opposites, with Coldamber herself being promoted from queen shortly after Gullpaw became an apprentice.
She herself missed her, just a little bit and was glad to see her, but she couldn't blame Ebonyfang's anger or at least hesitance to accept her back. Stars knew she felt the same was about Snailswirl, but.... in different ways and she wasn't sure which could be considered more extreme.
She looked between the two, a mixture of emotions rising within her when Snakepaw and Frostpaw's pissing match reached her ears and she turned to them, a little irritated.
"Frostpaw, shut up. You're a whole adult that needs a guard wherever you go, you have no room to talk. Besides, shouldn't you be picking on someone your own size? Snakepaw isn't a kit, sure, but he's much younger than you, enough that you should know better."
She wanted to tell Snakepaw he shouldn't let empty and meaningless words get under his skin, but she wouldn't say as much around Frostpaw, it would just give her more ammunition to use against the apprentice.
She was..... vaguely paying attention to Ebonyfang and Irisflame. If they wanted a private moment to sort this out.... she'd turn away completely.

Moon Lily Zesty Mango Angelique Fletcher Rani

[Mango]

Rainquail Rani Moon Lily Angelique Fletcher

Frostpaw narrowed her eyes angrily at Snakepaw unsheathing her claws before spitting on the ground. She hated that little rat, she didn’t know why, she just hated him, but she figured she had to look like a good medicine cat,” Unfortunately I will concede, Fakepaw, I am willing to continue your training, since you probably still need more training. ” she meowed. She was a medicine cat, she could go where she wanted when she wanted.

[Fletcher]

Rainquail Rani Moon Lily Angelique Zesty Mango

Bouncepaw

Bouncepaw regarded Coldamber with a warm bow of his head and a smile back- he didn't know much about what was going on in Windclan at the moment- but he sure didn't support it.

"T-Thank you, I've made a v-v..v-.vow to myself that I'll be the best I can be." he curled his tail around his paws, looking back worriedly to Ebonyfang. Clearly there was some unresolved tension going on between the clans, even the Medicine Cats.

He had no context on pretty much anything that was going on, and had formed his opinion only on first impressions, which, so far were mixed.

He felt a breeze flow over his pelt, causing him to shiver- he really needed to eat more, or these bitter cold nights were not going to get easier.

[Rani]

It was rather nice to have cats on his side for once, cats who were willing to openly support him against someone who was against him and the small tom openly grew more bold and puffed his chest out smiling at the ex queen.
"See Frostpaw everyone here knows youre full of it and a fool! With all your bluster I bet I know more than you about herbs considering you seem to spend all your time boasting rather then doing your job! If I had more pity for you I might ever offer to train you you old hag but I doubt I could feel more of that and Im still not inclined to so Im going to talk to any cat actually worth something. So anyone but you.
I dont think hightly of starclan but it will be a miracle if any of them wants to talk to you today much less help you when Buckstar finally looses it and demotes you to kit or dirtplace cleaner."
The apprentice really didnt know how correct his insults were or how hard they might potentially hit but he turned his back on Frostpaw flicking his tail in insult and refused to look at her as he moved back over to Coldamber.

Giving the older molly a grin that usually prompted his own mother to clean his ears he sat again beside her (slightly irritated he was still shorter then everyone here but Bouncepaw, he'd been growing a lot lately he should be taller!) and cocked his head at Irisflame, confused now that he had context. "Why are you here then?"

Moon Lily Zesty Mango Angelique Fletcher Rainquail

[Mango]

Fletcher Angelique Rainquail Rani Moon Lily

[Powerplaying done with permission of Rani]

Frostpaw felt furious, every single thing that Snakepaw had just said was completely true. She wasn’t actually chosen by Starclan, she was chosen by Icestar who walked between Starclan and the Dark Forest. She did know a bit more herbs than she let on, but she wasn’t even close to knowing as much as Irisflame. And Frankly, she knew Buckstar desperately wanted to demote her, she angrily hissed before unsheathing her claws and charging angrily towards Snakepaw angrily striking his lower back and tail, specifically the spot where his tail and back connected. Her attack was a bit clumsy but forceful causing the mark to be a bit jagged,” I’m not an old hag.” she spat angrily glancing up at the others,”We can go back to whatever you are talking about now, just needed to put that apprentice in its place.” she meowed intentionally using the pronoun it for Snakepaw.

[Fletcher]

[ Zesty Mango Angelique Rainquail Rani Moon Lily ]

Bouncepaw

Bouncepaw winced, watching Frostpaw lunge at the smaller cat. He was appalled by her actions, and desperately wanted to intervene...

He found his paws unable to carry him over, though.

Oh yeah I'm sure Starclan is thrilled with you harming an apprentice likely less than a quarter of your age...that's surely proving how mature and smart you are... He thought. he scoffed, flicking his tail.

Bouncepaw eventually gathered himself, stood, and walked to sit next to Snakepaw and Coldamber, glancing at the other apprentice's wounds.

"Are y-you alright?" he queried, voice gentle, "I w-wouldn't worry, she probably just lashed out b-because she's not smart enough to know h-ow to talk properly," he worded the last part quieter- he had a glint of mischief in his eye.

[Abyssopelagic]

Coldamber whipped around to face Frostpaw as she attacked Snakepaw.
A growl rising in her throat, she attempted to shove her way between the two apprentices. She lashed out at Frostpaw, claws aimed for her cheek.
She backed up until she was side by side with Snakepaw again, a feral look in her eyes as she glared at the white molly. She pressed into the RiverClan apprentice.
"If I see you attack either of the apprentices again, I will break one of your legs. You understand, hag?"
The words dripped from her mouth like vemon.
If she hurt either apprentice badly enough, she'd be breaking all of her legs.
She'd forgotten about Irisflame completely at this point.
Zesty Mango Rani Fletcher

[Moon Lily]

[ Zesty Mango Angelique Rani Rainquail Fletcher ]

Irisflame offered a light frown in Amber's direction as the she-cat regarded her warily. She'd barely been introduced to the molly before she went off on her little escapade, but she'd thought herself polite enough the first time around; at least, polite enough to be set aside as a friendly acquaintance.
Though, to be fair, the mere murmurs she had received upon her appearance were far from a warm welcome. She couldn't blame the Windclan herb-spitter.

Still...it felt odd. She was used to a soft smile from Boney's direction, and quiet respect and warmth from the rest. Now it felt as though she was trapped in a rabbit hole—thorns slowly approaching to hug her from all sides.

She wasn't fond of hugs. Or thorns.

Ah. And there went the little Thunderclan Wretch. The apprentice was always so self-righteous, wasn't she? The blue-grey feline smirked as she reflected on the endless amounts of glee she felt being able to call the old jerk an apprentice.
"Wretch, leave the lil' Sniper alone and let us get on with the meeting. Otherwise, I'm sure that Amber would be happy to carry out her suggestion. Acting like a kit, in front of Starclan?" The queen made disapproving clicking noises with her tongue. Fixing the older molly with a venomous stare, she continued, muttering under her breath so that only the pair of them could hear. "You're breaking medicine cat code, hitting him like that. I suggest you behave or I'll have your ass demoted and throat slit so quickly you'll barely have time to scream." Drawing back, the former medicine cat felt a light smile creep onto her face. It was a nice feeling, threatening someone. Better than having to listen to your own self-conscious thoughts.

"Hm?" Swiveling her ears to latch onto Jitterbug's exchange with the Riverclan tom, she quirked her mouth into a proper grin. Such a glint of mischief would not go unnoticed by the she-cat, who had read him as a nervous goody-two-paws at first. "Hey Boney, you chose the right apprentice! Reminds me of you, when ya first started," Nudging the skinny thing playfully, she was pleasantly surprised when he didn't fly away like a leaf. "I like your spirit, kiddo."
Flashing the pair of apprentices an amused look, she limped over to the stone, which still refused to light up. It had been quite fussy during her last few meetings, the moon barely giving them enough time to go by.

"Look at you, the rag-tag bunch. One relatively sane rabbit-chaser, a clone of Shadowclan's late leader, the Dark Forest incarnate, a walking skeleton who has proven himself to be somehow indestructible, and your very own Sniper—who may seem snakey but is actually a complete momma's boy." Clearing her throat, she plodded on. "Unfortunately...I'm here too. Huzzah. You're just going to have to live with me, though, because I've come to...educate...teach...inform? Ignore me. I've come to...lecture. Yes, that's it. Lecture you on herbs."

[Rani]

With a shocked shriek at the sudden attack Snakepaw whirled on the spot and snapped out with long fangs in an instinctive anger. As if that wasnt enough he lashed out with a rapid flurry of swipes with a clawed paw as the lanky apprentice back-peddled hard trying to get out of her range. Sure he probably missed but given his lack of training but that did not stop him from doing his best impression of a rattlesnake ducking partially behind Coldamber for defence.

"Your wretched rotten idiot cur! You come near me again I'll shred you and do Rainywhisker the favour of being the only medicine cat! You are a disgrace to everyone in this world and when you are gone will you not be missed and I will be happier then I ever have n my life before! NO ONE WANTS YOU HERE SO LEAVE!" His angry yowl was more lisp than anything as the words caught on his long fangs near frothing with anger and tensely coiled like his name sake in anticipation.

"Word to the wise Bouncepaw if someone is stupid enough to trash their dignity like this theyre also stupid enough to try and kill another cat just because they made them mad. She's not just an idiot she's a danger." Though his words were addressed to the other tom his glare was fixed on Frostpaw, though it soon transferred to Irisflame. She was right sure, he was a jerk and a sucker for his mother Foxblaze and it was probably how caring Coldamber was that endeared her to him, but he did not appreciate being exposed like that.

Zesty Mango Angelique Moon Lily Rainquail Fletcher

[Madelaine]

Ebonyfang would have stopped this, but it was a bit amusing. He felt bad for Snakepaw. Now he might have Frostbreath disease. He looked at Bouncepaw, not really wanting him to get in on this. "Thank you Bouncepaw.", he meowed through gritted teeth. The Shadowclan medicine cat looked at Frostpaw. His face showed that she should watch it. The tom looked to Snakepaw. "She probably can't even comprehend what your saying.", he responded. Ebonyfang might as well join them.

// Fletcher; Rani; Rainquail; Zesty Mango; Moon Lily; \\

[Mango]

Fletcher Rani Rainquail Moon Lily Angelique

Frostpaw narrowed her eyes at the others,” I was making my point. Go on Irislame, teach me about herbs. I’m already the best medicine cat, why not make me better.” she meowed giving a firm lash of her tail. She had to look tough, she knew this wasn’t true but she had to believe it was true for her own good. She was the greatest medicine cat ever, if she told herself it at all times it would come true after all.

[Rani]

Ugh Snakepaw just did not care for anything coming out of Frostpaws or Ebonyfangs muzzle right now. Sure the shadowclan medicine cat wasnt bad but the tom wasnt really interested in him or particularly close in the slightest so until Irisflame or someone else decided to say something interesting he was gonna focus on his bleeding wound....

His bleeding wound that looked like it was gonna scar, stars damn it! At least there were cobwebs here in this musty old cave and Snakepaw moved to collect a small bundle for himself and a couple more which he stuck to the side of her fur to carry home for good measure. That done he twisted around from where he was sitting to examine his lower back. Yeah Snakepaw did not trust the cleanliness of the thunderclan rats claws so grit his teeth and started cleaning the wound, hopeful that with this he might be able to avoid using any of his precious marigold on it. Cut cleaned the medicine cat layered it with with his collected webs to a good cover growling
"Youre not going to be a medicine cat for long I bet if any of this gets out. I mean who would want to be connected in any way to a liability. Irisflames not even a medicine cat and ran? from her clan and yet everyone here is happy to have her here and wants you to leave."
Zesty Mango Angelique Moon Lily Rainquail Fletcher

[Rani]

(This is not in relation to any starcave meetings this starter is simply for Snakepaws medicine cat name please treat it as private)
Rainquail

The young tom had told Coldamber everything, of course he did, after the medicine meeting that had gone so badly and turned into an ongoing disaster but it was still so hard to see a worry come true. He'd told the older medicine cat about Sparrowskip leaving, about how he was alone, about his worries that in his absence he would soon be named full medicine cat in turn, about how it worried him, about how he didnt believe in starclan like he should for his role and she'd listened. (She always did, Coldamber was an actually reasonable and kind cat like that.)

So here he was, adhering to their emergency plan in case Snakepaw was right about his worries, slipping into the starcave two nights after the last meeting concluded to be named. Coldamber should be here with the knowledge of how this actually worked (and probably the personal knowledge that the normal ceremony wouldnt work) and it was only that thought that kept him going. Two days wasnt really enough time to be ready for this was it though. Not at only 9 moons old, not amidst another unforeseen disaster. But he was here.

"Coldamber? You in here? We were right, of course we were, Sparrowskips left and Im to be medicine cat in his place."

[Abyssopelagic]

Despite the situation in WindClan, Coldamber felt it was her duty to help Snakepaw in the absence of his mentor and now that this responsibility was falling onto his much younger shoulders, more than ever he needed her.
If he hadn't told the other Medicine Cats, there was a reason to it, whether it be a lack of personal connection or Clan rivalry and a wish to keep that knowledge hidden from anyone who might use it against them.
She had made her way to the Starcave early, to wait for Snakepaw. Although she and Snailswirl had never been introduced or inducted into the role of Medicine Cat through ceremony, she thought it would be ok to improvise.
It wasn't the words that made it important or work, but the intent and thought behind it.
Shortly after she had arrived, Snakepaw padded along, looking tired and admitting what she felt she already knew. She approached him and pressed her shoulder into his, head coming down to lightly settle onto the top of his.
"I'm terribly sorry Sparrowskip left this to you. I will do everything I can to make this easier for you," she whispered to him, softly.
She gave him a moment before she pressed into the real matter at hand.
"Are you ready? To be named a Medicine Cat in full. I'll let you have some time if you need it."

Rani

[Rani]

Rainquail
Support was nice. Support was really nice especially when Snakepaw felt he had none and was cast adrift in the cruelest coldest river imaginable. He had Foxblaze at home and Coldamber who understood the duties he was burdened with and that was enough. The tom leaned into her warmth softly murmuring
"Im sorry to draw you away from windclan right now I know you must be struggling. As soon as windclans free, because I know you will be eventually, tell a riverclan cat over the border to tell me and Im gathering a patrol to bring you some herbs and prey. Its the least I can do after all youve done for me."

Eventually pulling away Snakepaw swallowed nervously as he pulled away but breathed in deeply before firmly replying. "No but lets do it anyway. How is this supposed to work?"

[Abyssopelagic]

Coldamber murrs softly as she pulls away and takes a step backwards, thinking, having unintentionally ignored the first half of what Snakepaw had said, only hearing the question.
She thought about it. She hadn't had any living cats to ask, so she'd sought her answer in StarClan. However, she didn't want to adhere strictly to any sort of traditions, as she thought the intent was more important.
"Traditionally, the cat initiating the apprentice to Medicine Cat and the apprentice themself sleep in the Starcave and conduct the ceremony in StarClan, but...." she paused, mouth twisting.
"If you would much rather not, I don't thi k it would matter if we stay awake and in the present world."
She wasn't entirely aware that Snakepaw didn't believe in StarClan, just that he seemed to have an aversion to the ancestors. She didn't know his life, so she wouldn't judge. Well, even if she knew him better, each cat's belief was their own and she didn't feel it right to impose beliefs on others.

Rani

[Rani]

Rainquail
"Yeah but.... Honestly do medicine cats even generally linger long enough to last to properly name their successors full medicine cats? I dont think Ive ever seen or heard of it happening... Thats probably not a good sign lets move on. The cycle needs to break in some way.

I dont need starclan to tell me if Im ready. I've been doing everything I can to keep my clan together and I havent failed yet. I wont fail. What I need is for someone who believes in my ability knows about me and actually gives a damn to give me a name I can be proud of."
He trusted Coldamber with that where he didnt trust any other medicine cat or any other cat in general. To the tom the faith of a living cat in him was far better than a some fictitious dead ones.
"We're under the light of the stars and the moon right now. If that matters it should be enough." Moving forward felt more important right now.

[Abyssopelagic]

Rainquail
"Yeah but.... Honestly do medicine cats even generally linger long enough to last to properly name their successors full medicine cats? I dont think Ive ever seen or heard of it happening... Thats probably not a good sign lets move on. The cycle needs to break in some way.

I dont need starclan to tell me if Im ready. I've been doing everything I can to keep my clan together and I havent failed yet. I wont fail. What I need is for someone who believes in my ability knows about me and actually gives a damn to give me a name I can be proud of."
He trusted Coldamber with that where he didnt trust any other medicine cat or any other cat in general. To the tom the faith of a living cat in him was far better than a some fictitious dead ones.
"We're under the light of the stars and the moon right now. If that matters it should be enough." Moving forward felt more important right now.
Coldamber felt a surge of pride for the cat in front of her.
Not too long ago Snakepaw would have likely scoffed and turned away, refusing to partake in Medicine Cat rituals. At one point she worried he would have turned away from his duties to serve his own purpose and yet, here he was, facing a destiny chosen by someone else that he never believed in, ready to give his all for this purpose.
"I appreciate your belief in us as the still living, instead of looking to the dead for answers."

She herself was guilty of this at times, growing tired of the bickering and emotions of her companions and seeking the guidance of someone intangible, an outside view to the situation.
She approached him once more, now readying herself to give him his ceremony.
"StarClan, spirits of our ancestors and the Medicine Cats that came before us. I call upon you to look upon this cat in front of me. He has trained in the ways of a Medicine Cat and I feel him worthy to take his place as another among our rank in the name as a Medicine Cat in full."
These were not the words to be spoken. You were to emplore that StarClan find the cat worthy, but.... she didn't care what they thought. She didn't need someone else to tell her that he was ready, was worthy of his position.
He had grown so much and she wouldn't let anyone take this away from him. This was his moment.

"Snakepaw, do you promise to uphold the Medicine Code and heal your Clan in times of both peace and strife?"
This was it. His answer would solidify his status as a Medicine Cat and he'd be one his own, more or less. Being in different Clans..... meant they could only train so much and at certain times. She wished she could sweep him away, take him under her wing in WindClan unstead, give him a better future..... but what future was there for WindClan or for Snakepaw in WindClan?
She felt powerless and she hated that. What happened to her pride? Her happiness in how far he'd come? Where had this anxiety come from?

((I'm so sorry it took me this long to reply))

[Rani]

Coldamber felt a surge of pride for the cat in front of her.
Not too long ago Snakepaw would have likely scoffed and turned away, refusing to partake in Medicine Cat rituals. At one point she worried he would have turned away from his duties to serve his own purpose and yet, here he was, facing a destiny chosen by someone else that he never believed in, ready to give his all for this purpose.
"I appreciate your belief in us as the still living, instead of looking to the dead for answers."

She herself was guilty of this at times, growing tired of the bickering and emotions of her companions and seeking the guidance of someone intangible, an outside view to the situation.
She approached him once more, now readying herself to give him his ceremony.
"StarClan, spirits of our ancestors and the Medicine Cats that came before us. I call upon you to look upon this cat in front of me. He has trained in the ways of a Medicine Cat and I feel him worthy to take his place as another among our rank in the name as a Medicine Cat in full."
These were not the words to be spoken. You were to emplore that StarClan find the cat worthy, but.... she didn't care what they thought. She didn't need someone else to tell her that he was ready, was worthy of his position.
He had grown so much and she wouldn't let anyone take this away from him. This was his moment.

"Snakepaw, do you promise to uphold the Medicine Code and heal your Clan in times of both peace and strife?"
This was it. His answer would solidify his status as a Medicine Cat and he'd be one his own, more or less. Being in different Clans..... meant they could only train so much and at certain times. She wished she could sweep him away, take him under her wing in WindClan unstead, give him a better future..... but what future was there for WindClan or for Snakepaw in WindClan?
She felt powerless and she hated that. What happened to her pride? Her happiness in how far he'd come? Where had this anxiety come from?

((I'm so sorry it took me this long to reply))

Snakepaw didnt care much about the words, pleas to starclan who would never respond but the intent behind them warmed the tom to the core. Coldamber belived he was ready. He was half trained and still young trying desperately to hold his clan together in a crisis, a stress they two cats shared. The struggle to keep an entire clan alive and together through all odds weight piled on top of already weighty duties when it was neither of their places to do so. And if she who understood the trials believed he could make it the apprentice would put faith in experience not the stars and take that as his sign. He was ready.

"I swear to help my clanmates upon my life, my love and all I survived in my time. I'll hold my duty above all else heal my clan and keep them strong with everything I can."
Perhaps it was sad or worrisome the words and how much he meant them. The intent behind them. The promise to abandon his own desires, needs and everything he was for the sake of others but that was a medicine cats burden wasnt it. They as a group would always sacrifice for the whole until there was nothing left with little thanks and no promise of an end. All they could hope to do was support eachother and Snakepaw quietly sweared that he'd do that too for Coldamber. She believed in him and he'd make sure that belief could never be doubted.

[Abyssopelagic]

Coldamber leaned foward and pressed her nose to Snakepaw's forehead.
"Then by the authority vested in me, Snakepaw, from this moment foward, you will be known as Snakeheart," she leaned back a bit, eyes shining.
"May you carry foward with my blessing as RiverClan's new Medicine Cat and know that I'll always be proud of you and just how far you've come."
She allowed herself to drop the formal airs she had donned and leaned foward to pressed her shoulder into his, enwrapping him in a hug and a final word of advice before they parted ways, though she hoped they might speak without the weight of duty hanging over them.

"Your road ahead is long. Don't be afraid to find others to trust. Make friends wherever you can, my dear."
She lifted her head briefly to look directly at the stars, challenging them to say otherwise, as if they could answer her, to shun her for not seeking their blessing before naming this cat. But they did not answer, they only winked back at her.
With the lack or resistance, she let herself relax and the tension ease from her mind. There would be no opposition for her Snakeheart. Not today.

Rani

[Rani]

And so with a nose touch and a blessing, he was Snakeheart.
It wasnt a name he expected. The tom knew full well what other cats thought of him, snappish angry and biting at the best of times to anyone without a care for retaliation and heart wasnt a suffix many would think suited him. Maybe the full name yes, Snakeheart; the heart of a serpent poisonous and dangerous but the tom knew that wasnt what Coldamber meant by the name. Coldamber knew more than most how deeply Snakeheart cared for the clan and the lengths he would go to help them, its how he grew close to her in the first place. By drawing her off in a gathering and whenever possible to ask for some way, any way to help his clan.

He wasnt Snake hearted to her he was Snake known to her for his heart. And the thought warmed him like the sun as he leaned on the older mollys shoulder a low purr rumbling his his chest. His ears flicked as the advice and his flat and serious expression faded as a small slightly mischievous grin curled around his muzzle as he prodded the molly.
"Sounds like good advice to me, Ive already got someone here and I trust and consider a dear friend and its turned out pretty well for me."
The harder edges of his often razor confidence softened as he noted her tension the burden weighing down on her in a sort of invisible pressure and he quietly added
"I hope you can think the same of me. I mean the chances of us being able to rely on the other medicine cats are basically none. With Frostpaw being Frostpaw and Rainywhisker being unable to reign her in in the slightest thunderclan is a bust, Im not touching that with a dead rat when I have the option of sane cats. And Ebonyfang is..... well Ebontfang he's not bad but.... Yeah.
Does the medicine cat role just attract weird cats? I dont know much about the cats who held the position before us but is this a trend?"

She needed to be able on focus on lighter topics everything that was going on in windclan was so much if the toms sharpened jabs managed to earn a smile or chuckle he'd be happy. He was a medicine cat now and it was his duty to help and heal he'd start by helping her.

Rainquail

[Willie Warf]

Muffin sat there for a few moments, thinking about if she should follow Stonefoot or not. I could be a trap... she thought. But it won't hurt to just take a look, I am stronger than Stonefoot anyway. She padded after him, hurrying to keep up, the bell on her collar jingling as she walked.
Stonefoot stopped at the starcave, hearing whispers as he entered. "Welcome To the Starcave." he said to Muffin. Feathercreek

[Feathercreek]

Stonefoot stopped at the starcave, hearing whispers as he entered. "Welcome To the Starcave." he said to Muffin. Feathercreek

Muffin stepped into the Starcave. Her breath was nearly taken away. "Whoa. This. Is. So. Cool." she muttered. She couldn't believe her eyes. This cannot be real! she thought.

[Abyssopelagic]

Coldamber shrugs. Perhaps the position did attract weird cats.
Her own situation would qualify as weird, especially with all that happened recently with WindClan.
"Perhaps. My only experience with any of the Medicine Cats before us has been Fawnsqueak and Coyotesnarl, one who didn't want the role and the other became deputy. I would say the role practically demands the odd at this point."
She moved to rest her head on his, wanting the feeling of closeness.
"Out of curiosity, dear. What all have I taught you this far about herbs?"
Surely there was room to expand on this knowledge. As a full Medicine Cat, he'd need a wealth of it. And while she was hoping to simply speak without the duty of responsibility weighing on her, something in her gut told her it was important that she share all that she knows before either one took a step outside of this cave.
The feeling of dread wasn't new, but to feel it so clearly in such a private moment.... was more than a little concerning. Perhaps there was nothing to it and she was overly worried..... but she wouldn't be taking that risk today.
Rani

[Rani]

So it was a trend. Good and worrisome to know. Snakeheart might not know who Coyotesnarl was but it certainly was an interesting name. The young tom was quite happy to press himself against the older molly and be her head rest internally doubting he'd be able to do this again given the rate he was growing. It would be a shame though, he really appreciated still being smaller then one of his more motherly figures given he was not the same size as Foxblaze... Not that he'd admit he saw Coldamber like that unless she pushed it.

A low rumble kicked up as the tom thought.
"Well I know burnet, burdock, catmint, marigold, honey, poppyseeds, cobwebs, and deathberries. I think thats it I really dont know many... I've had to get creative because of that but its worked so far! I know one day that lack of knowledge will bite me but for now it's manageable. If there are any you dont know Im more than happy to help out but I doubt it." He grinned softly chuckling lightly at his own sort of joke. He really doubted he could help but was more then willing to try for his friend.

Rainquail

[Abyssopelagic]

Ah, well, this would be quick, then.
There were only two more that she knew of that she could teach him. She'd finally learned that the herb she'd been using for fevers was borage, and Shockholly's words about dandelions still rung in her head. She had never used it herself, but she always kept it tucked in the back of her mind in case she did.
Creativity was a bit more important than remembering the herbs, she felt. Herbs could only do so much and some of the injuries that others came to her with were.... fairly unique, to say the least, remembering the ear infection she'd had to deal with and suppressed a shudder. She never wanted to deal with anything else like that again.
"Well, I only have two more herbs I could teach you. You know what dandelion is? Very common, small, bright yellow, shaped like a cup. Chewed up, they're good for numbing physical, skin deep pains. Washing them away removes the effect, so if you need any other important herbs on the wound, I'd suggest mashing them up together."
She flicked her tail as she thought.
"Borage is good for fevers. I don't quite remember what it looks like, though," she murmurs, the last part mostly for herself.
She recognized that some of the herbs he listed were things she had not taught him. Either he was experimenting or he had someone else helping teach him. Both were good.

Rani

[Rani]

Rainquail
Snakeheart was attentive and alert listening to all of this trying to take everything and anything in so he could use it to help his clan. Dandelion was useful that'd help a lot on the strain on his poppyseed stores plus if it didnt send cats to sleep that'd be a boon."Dandelion? The yellow flower that looks like marigold? And turn fluffy and white later? Right its a painkiller thats super useful, have to figure out how to mix the herbs though my mouths not that big..."

He started at the borage knowledge though. "Wait isnt that the plant you described to me like ages ago when I asked about greencough? When you described it but forgot the name and I couldnt find it because I couldnt find the flowers you described (though I think you said to not use the flowers to treat and use the leaves) because of the winter... Blue sharp flowers and fuzzy I think? So its called borage? If were thinking of the same thing its really useful I tried my best to remember it." He was proud of himself for that, being able to remember this kind of stuff and his tail thumped on the ground as he grinned at it. That grin faded as the knowledge clicked into place and its implications and he frowned.

"The medicine cat before you didnt teach much did he.... The list even with the additions of dandelion and borage isnt long... it feels like she should know more." That was a hard realisation and he sighed taking a moment to reflect before deciding. "You know what it doesnt matter, even if we dont know much you and me will be enough support to make it even if we arent as trained as we should be."

[Feathercreek]

A silver kittypet named Muffin stared at the glittering crystal at the middle of the cave. It shone as bright as the stars themselves. Muffin carefully approached the rock, sniffing the air wearily. Something deep in her kittypet gut told her what to do. Before she even knew what she was doing, she padded up to the crystal, lay down, and put her nose to the rock. Closing her eyes, she sighed. Muffin felt silly. What was she even doing, laying there like bait for a fox?

[ChillCat]

Ivy had died a while ago as a loner, but still believed in Starclan, so that's where she went when she died. As a loner and a Starclan cat, she could wander all over the afterlife. She considered she had it pretty good. As she woke up from a long nap, she noticed a tug in her spirit. A cat was at the Moonstone. I haven't been to the Moonstone in ages! I should go check it out. Sending herself into the cat's dream, the pitch black she-cat prepared her introduction. "Hello. Welcome to Starclan." Feathercreek

[Feathercreek]

Ivy had died a while ago as a loner, but still believed in Starclan, so that's where she went when she died. As a loner and a Starclan cat, she could wander all over the afterlife. She considered she had it pretty good. As she woke up from a long nap, she noticed a tug in her spirit. A cat was at the Moonstone. I haven't been to the Moonstone in ages! I should go check it out. Sending herself into the cat's dream, the pitch black she-cat prepared her introduction. "Hello. Welcome to Starclan." Feathercreek

ChillCat

Muffin opened her eyes groggily. What she saw made her shake her head in disbelief. She had expected to wake up in the Starcave, but instead was on a grassy field, everything shimmering with stars. When she heard and saw a black cat, she gasped. The cat had stars in her fur, and was a little transparent. "Who are you and why am I here? Take me back. NOW." Muffin demanded, but her tail flicked with unease. "W-where am I?"

[ChillCat]

How rude! This cat obviously wasn't a clan cat, they didn't know about Starclan. "Cool it. You're in Starclan, you're asleep. This is a dream. When you fall asleep touching the Moonstone, a Starclan cat will come to visit you," Ivy explained. Feathercreek

[Feathercreek]

How rude! This cat obviously wasn't a clan cat, they didn't know about Starclan. "Cool it. You're in Starclan, you're asleep. This is a dream. When you fall asleep touching the Moonstone, a Starclan cat will come to visit you," Ivy explained. Feathercreek

ChillCat

Muffin was still not convinced. "How am I supposed to be sure that this isn't a trap?" she said, staring at the cat suspiciously. "And I still don't get it. Who are you and where am I? And don't answer my question with 'you are in Starclan' because I don't know what this Starclan is, and I'm not exactly keen on knowing that."

[ChillCat]

Ivy flicked her tail in slight annoyance. Seriously? Her first dream visit after dying was this? Whatever. "I can't affect the physical world, so there's no real proof I can provide. I can only promise you that this is real and you won't be hurt. You'll wake up in the morning." Her questions, for not knowing what Starclan was, were actually pretty good.
"I'm Ivy...shade," she said with a slight pause, adding on her old suffix. "Starclan is where clan cats go when they die, if they've lived good lives. I used to live in Shadowclan. When a clan cat dies, they usually come here, and we advise the living cats in their dreams. I know I just made it sound like you died, since you're here, but you aren't. We have a special link to the Moonstone that enables us to speak with the living like this."
Wait, she could prove it was real, but what purpose would it serve? Probably none, but she wanted to show off a little. "Your name is Muffin, whatever a muffin is, Stonefoot, a Riverclan cat, brought you here, and you are a kittypet."

Feathercreek You don't have to mention and quote me, one or the other will do.

[Feathercreek]

ChillCat

"I know who I am, thank you very much! And I don't need you to remind me of that stinky cat named Stonefoot who needs to a bath!" Muffin snapped back at Ivy. "And, er, Ivyshade, a muffin is a type of prey that twolegs eat. And the good part about muffins, is that you don't need to hunt for them, you make them. And talking about this Starclan, I don't know why I should talk to a cat that was mouse-brained enough to die. It's probably your fault you weren't careful and died." she said in a matter-of-fact voice.

[ChillCat]

Oh my Starclan! This cat is awful! I can see why I got to her first, no one else wanted to deal with her! "Look, I don't make the rules. And you'll die one day, and when you do I won't come up to you and say, 'Haha, you died! How stupid!' Why? Because that's a stupid thing to say." Ivy died because some awful twolegs got to her. How are you supposed to be careful when you've been caught by twolegs? But a pampered kittypet won't understand that. "You've just been handed proof that an afterlife exists. You can decide what to do with it." Ivy was starting to reach her limit. Feathercreek

[Feathercreek]

ChillCat

Muffin sniffed the air in her snobby self-loving way. "Well, if I die it actually would be my fault. I wouldn't have said you are mouse-brained if you had died of old age. That's natural. You can't outrun being old, but you look... young. Lets not talk about death, shall we? Makes me a tad bit uncomfortable." she said. "Now, why am I here anyway? I'm sure you didn't walk my dreams just to say hi." Muffin said, starting to groom herself. "And, by the way, do you have any food, preferably chicken flavored? If you don't have it, I don't exactly care what flavor kibble, 'cause I'm hungry.

[ChillCat]

(Ivy was probably middle aged when she died, idk i wasn't keeping track. Where do you want this to go? So I know what to do next) Feathercreek

Ivy didn't appreciate the comments, but ignored them when Muffin wanted to move on. The dream wouldn't last forever.
"Um...This is a little embarrassing, but I don't really know. I only died a moon ago. When a cat touched the moonstone or wants to talk to Starclan, Starclan cats feel a tug in their soul to appear to them. I felt that, and now we're both here."
Maybe Muffin was destined to join a clan? She didn't seem like the type. Too pampered and snobby.
"We do have food, but not twoleg food. If you want food you have to catch it yourself." Yeah, not suited for the rough and tough life of a forest cat. But Ivy would push forward the idea anyway.
"Maybe you're destined to join one of the clans. I wouldn't recommend Shadowclan though, Dawnstar is...yikes."
Ivy had left the clan when Icestar was still leader, so when she died and saw Dawnstar was now leader, Ivy was surprised and not enthusiastic. Dawnstar would look at the soft Muffin and snap her neck quick as you please. Maybe she should tell her to just go home...

[Feathercreek]

ChillCat

Muffin sighed. How did those cats even survive, eating live rats for breakfast? It was no wonder they died... "Well, maybe I'll just wait. I prefer triangle shaped, chicken flavored kibble with milk. If you don't have it, well, shame on you!" she said, flicking a fleck of dirt off of her paw. "But maybe I can try joining one of those... what did you call them? Clans. Maybe you can tell me more about them?"

[ChillCat]

Wow. Muffin was actually interested? That was probably because she didn't know about the clans.
"There are four, Thunderclan, Riverclan, Windclan, and Shadowclan. The cat that brought you here is from Riverclan. I was from Shadowclan. Each clan hunts and fights together to support their weakest members and defend territory."
Ivy was a clan cat, through and through. She had left to become an explorer, but when she died she woke up in Starclan so that was enough proof for her.
"Thunderclan lives in the forest, they hunt squirrels and birds and all that. Riverclan eats fish and swims in the river. Windclan lives on the moor and run to hunt rabbits for their food. Shadowclan lives in the pine swamp and hunts frogs and lizards in the darkness. Every moon the clans meet to talk and share news." That seemed like enough basic knowledge. If Muffin was really interested she could talk to a living leader.
"But I'm warning you. Don't choose Shadowclan. Dawnstar isn't interested in pampered kittypets. She'll probably kill you." Ivy wasn't exaggerating. Feathercreek

[Feathercreek]

ChillCat

Muffin was interested. Of course, she wouldn't live in Shadowclan, even if Dawnstar was not the leader. Muffin hated swamps and frogs. "Okay...I know that know, but what do the clans like? Are there any that like shiny things?" she asked. Personally, Muffin loved shiny and polished stuff. Like the bell on her collar. Or the name tag that was also on her collar.

[ChillCat]

Oh dear. Shiny things? Really? Fine. "Riverclan values beauty more than the others. But I'm sure all the clans have collectors of some sort. We like the same things most cats do. Catching your own food, friends, family, battle training. That sort of thing. This life isn't for the faint of heart." Ivy liked shiny things too, but that wouldn't be a question she'd ask! Feathercreek

[Feathercreek]

ChillCat
Muffin started flicking her ears, something she did when she was thinking. "Hmmm... Maybe I'll consider Riverclan. Is there any bad stuff about that clan?" she asked, her gaze moving toward a bush not far away. Something was rustling inside it.

[Madelaine]

Ebonyfang just wanted ro hurry up and get the the Starcave, so he hoped Bouncepaw and Shrewstep were following him. The tom stood at the entrance to wait for Bouncepaw. The sun wasn't quite down yet, so they had time. He hoped this time someone actually talked to him. That dark forest idiot from last time got on his nerves.

// Fletcher; gs29513; \\

[gs29513]

Shrewstep was right behind Ebonyfang as the medicine cats traveled towards the Starcave. Last time there had been fighting, that crackpot Thunderclan cat and one of the other ones, and he definitely wanted to be around, just in case. Not that Ebonyfang couldn't protect himself. It was more out of questionable concern for Bouncepaw's well being. Hanging behind the two medicine cats a bit awkwardly, did he really want to go in? he decided against it. If they got into a fight he could be in quick enough to prevent any real damage from happening, at least he thought so. Fletcher Angelique

[Fletcher]

[ gs29513 Angelique ]

Bouncepaw

Bouncepaw skulked behind the two, not lingering too far back, enough that he could be heard moving. He watched Shrewstep, remaining near silent the entire time.

He was happy to be here again, something had been bothering him. He needed to talk to Cricketpaw.

Bouncepaw eventually overtook Shrewstep to walk alongside his mentor, he still remained quiet, and, didn't actually regard Ebonyfang's presence much at all. He waited before laying down, in case the older cat had something to say to him specifically.

[stag]

Eren walked into a bright cave,a nice place to stay. It smelled like cats,different clans! Not windclan! Angry surged through him,he needed to find that windclan cat again!
Killing and eating his mother as he watched in a shocked state,as he felt the headache hit him.
Eren put his paw up to cover his bloody eye and try to force the memory to not come back.
Eren as a kit was being forced to the ground,his mother had her spine broken,twisted to beyond repair.
His bloody forehead wound dripped blood down his fur and soaked it,tears in his eyes at his mothers body,pushing his way up,Eren looked upon the worst thing he had ever witnessed.
The windclan cat eating...her,his mother being eaten. Tears filled his eyes as another windclan cat pinned him to the ground and cut his cheek open,they let him go,in a shocked state he watched pinned down as they buried her body and released him. Her blood soaked his paws.
A wave of pain hit his cheek and forehead,it all came back.
The rage and fire burned in him. He had killed one of them,he needed the other now!
He needed revenge,to kill even if they weren't the cat who he was looking for!

[OPEN]

[ChillCat]

Yes! She was getting somewhere! "Riverclan swims in the river and catch fish for their food." None of the other clans did that. But even though Ivy was from Shadowclan, she had tried swimming a few times before. It wasn't as bad as other cats said it was. Feathercreek

[Feathercreek]

Yes! She was getting somewhere! "Riverclan swims in the river and catch fish for their food." None of the other clans did that. But even though Ivy was from Shadowclan, she had tried swimming a few times before. It wasn't as bad as other cats said it was. Feathercreek

That didn't sound bad at all! Well, except for the 'catch your own food' part. "I think I'll join that, er, what do you call it? It's called Streamclan, right? But first I'll need to say bye to my twolegs. They raised me, after all." Muffin said. "But don't get me wrong. I am still thinking about it, so I might not join it. I am probably too glamorous for those wild cats after all." she told Lily. Then Muffin remembered something she wanted to ask the Starclan cat. "Stonefoot said that you send messages and prophecies. You can also tell the future. So, what will the future be? And, did you know that I would come here? do you have a message for me?"

[ChillCat]

Wow! Her first Starclan dreamvisit was becoming a success! Ivy smiled a bit. "Riverclan. And you don't have to join if you wouldn't be happy there." When Muffin mentioned twolegs, she said, "Twolegs, huh. I never had any, but there was a nice old one who used to feed me." Prophecies? Well, Ivy did know she would be there. But Starclan didn't have as much sway over the living world as cats thought. "I knew you would be here, but I don't have much for you, other than that you need to do what you think is right. If you wouldn't be happy in a clan, don't join." Feathercreek

[Feathercreek]

Wow! Her first Starclan dreamvisit was becoming a success! Ivy smiled a bit. "Riverclan. And you don't have to join if you wouldn't be happy there." When Muffin mentioned twolegs, she said, "Twolegs, huh. I never had any, but there was a nice old one who used to feed me." Prophecies? Well, Ivy did know she would be there. But Starclan didn't have as much sway over the living world as cats thought. "I knew you would be here, but I don't have much for you, other than that you need to do what you think is right. If you wouldn't be happy in a clan, don't join." Feathercreek

Muffin thought that over, the cogs turning. "Hmm...I might as well learn to hunt. What do you wild cats hunt again? Oh, yeah, mice. Teach me to hunt mice!" she said to Ivy. It sounded like an order. Muffin was used to getting what she wanted. "Now!" she added, her dull eyes shining.

[poppy]

Eren walked into a bright cave,a nice place to stay. It smelled like cats,different clans! Not windclan! Angry surged through him,he needed to find that windclan cat again!
Killing and eating his mother as he watched in a shocked state,as he felt the headache hit him.
Eren put his paw up to cover his bloody eye and try to force the memory to not come back.
Eren as a kit was being forced to the ground,his mother had her spine broken,twisted to beyond repair.
His bloody forehead wound dripped blood down his fur and soaked it,tears in his eyes at his mothers body,pushing his way up,Eren looked upon the worst thing he had ever witnessed.
The windclan cat eating...her,his mother being eaten. Tears filled his eyes as another windclan cat pinned him to the ground and cut his cheek open,they let him go,in a shocked state he watched pinned down as they buried her body and released him. Her blood soaked his paws.
A wave of pain hit his cheek and forehead,it all came back.
The rage and fire burned in him. He had killed one of them,he needed the other now!
He needed revenge,to kill even if they weren't the cat who he was looking for!

[OPEN]

Kai

Darkmoon sat on a rock. The cave was bright, and the small pool reflected stars. A magical place to some. To her, it reminded her of... her situation. Her amber eyes fixed on the entrance. A cat walked in. What the hell?! What was he doing here? She tasted the air. A loner. Confused and angered her more.

[spade]

What had been the steps that led him here? What path had he taken that had snaked around to this very destination? Kestrelwing, sure, he was like any warrior. He loved his home; was loyal to RiverClan above all else.
When Sootflare and Stormcall had first gone missing, the young tom had reluctantly stepped up to help chase away the shadows that threatened to overtake his mother's home's great legacy. Despite his disdain for a majority of his Clanmates, Kestrelwing's desire to see RiverClan thrive again outweighted any and all doubt.

So when Snakeheart had named him the new leader of RiverClan, it hadn't quite set in until now. Climbing the ridge that led to the Starcave with the medicine cat at his side, Kestrelwing took a moment to let the breeze ruffle it's way through his fur. The sun was setting ahead of them, sinking down below the crust of the territory. A few birds dotted the skies overhead, calling out in a melodic evening song.

For a moment, the forest seemed peaceful. Tensions and stress that had mounted his shoulders melting away like morning mist.

"Never in all the moons of training to become a warrior and living on the outskirts of Clan life did I ever picture this moment," Kestrelwing chuckled, a bitter tone lacing his words as he swung his yellow gaze over to his companion. Moons ago he'd loathed anything to do with medicine or healing, never making an effort to get to know any of them.

But Snakeheart had become something of... a brother to him in the past few moons. With Eelsting still missing, he felt a sense of kinship to the snarky young medicine cat. He'd had his own share of hardship, and in some twisted, ironic turn of fate that had brought the two of them closer.

"So how does this work?"

// Rani [whenever you're ready :heartbounce: ]

[Rani]

The trek to the starcave was always a long and trying one (at least for the small medicine cat), nothing like a long stroll through the territory even if the distance was made comparable, the constant looking over shoulders for threats might add to it but that wasnt quite it. Maybe the sweeping wind they had to contend with? The distances from the clan they were reaching, or the sheer foreignness of the area? Or perhaps it was the destination because Snakeheart was never happy to be heading out here. So the medicine cats ears were pinned and eyes narrowed as he was buffeted by the wind, fur streaming.
"I suppose I did, with all the planning Lionstorm and I did to get us here but despite everything Im happy with the turn out. Theres more irritating cats to be out here with, and much less deserving or suited. Try and see the bright side of this you overlarge snappy fowl you'll be able to defend and improve riverclan however you see fit no more just sitting and grinding your teeth over not being able to do anything about the idiots. Plus its not like you'll ever be able to do any worse then Sootflare, the traitor. So you'll never have to worry about that at least."

For all his snark and rough edged words as the two made their way to that horrid cave Snakeheart was genuinely trying to reassure the warrior in his own strange way. This had to be a daunting task and while the medicine cat would be working to support the older tom in every way, from burnet to bolster strength before the two set off to a willingness to support him at every turn, his methods werent exactly refined. Still even with his attempts it was rather odd that the skinny tom was trying to help at all. Snakeheart tended to let cats deal with issues themselves only stepping in to yell at them when it effected others. But this was not the way the tom dealt with his family, Snakehearts mother and brothers got treated actual help. And at this point.... Kestrelwing was as close to family as any non blood related cat had ever gotten and while the medicine cat didnt know how to approach any of this or know what to think about it... Well he'd act anyway (bar maybe trying to groom him at random which happened quite a lot in the Fox family, the orange top valued his fur thanks.)

"No real clue if Im honest but let's be real this probably isnt going to work. All we really need to is hang around in the cave for a bit before going home and it'll be fine, the whole life thing has to be nothing but a giant scam to hammer home superiority. You can try it if you want but the only use of this tradition in my mind is keeping things stable. Once you get into the cave you'll see a giant shining rock just press your nose against it and take a nap and you'll ~dream about our dead ancestors~ . Fair warning sleeping in a random uncomfortable cave gives you weird dreams but its nothing special, Ill be hanging around looking for some herbs outside if you do want to try it though."
Despite all his snark it was actually a beautiful site, especially when the moon beams hit the stone, refracting the light but Snakeheart wasnt one to just sit and enjoy beauty. Still soon enough the cave entrance came into view, looming like a beasts maw and it was time.
spade

[spade]

Snakeheart was right, and as much as the older tom really just wanted to curl up and nap, there was work to be done. Kestrelwing was in charge now. No more biting his tongue when things didn't go the way he wanted them to. No more silently curing the leadership that lacked the ability to handle dealing with tough situations. It was all in his paw now. And the help of Splashleap and Snakeheart, he would make sure that RiverClan rose to glory once more.

Briefly, Kestrelwing turned his maw to the darkening sky overhead. Was StarClan real? He didn't think so. But his mother... the thought of her just vanishing after her death made unease creep, so at least he believed in something. But with Firehawk's death hot on his mind, he wondered where the tom had gone. Had he just vanished as well? Or was he still around in the mind of Lionstorm, wherever the golden boy was?

Sucking in a deep breath, he set his shoulders back and started to pad forward. "Might as well try it. If anything, perhaps my mother will visit me like she did at Smallpines - and that will be enough for me." A determined look settled onto his face as he turned to glance at Snakeheart once last time, nodding, before disappearing into the cavern.

It was dark, yet the ground was lined with deep rooted pawprints signaling all of the cats who had come before him. A strange feeling enveloped him as he moved forward, whispers darting in and out of his ears. Kestrelwing growled a bit, tense and prepared to spring if he came across any attackers. But it wasn't that. Before he could see any threat, the gleam of a brilliant stone caught his attention. It glistened in the rising moonlight, and Kestrelwing was struck by the beauty of it.

It was time.

Almost instintively, hungry for a chance to perhaps see his mother, Kestrelwing closed the gap between himself and the stone, settling down in front of it. "Here goes nothing..." he sighed, pressing his nose to it.

In a flash the living world that surrounded him fell away, breaking off like frozen fractals and being replaced with a more serene landscape. Stars twinkled overhead as Kestrelwing rose to his paws, surrounded by an unfamiliar landscape.

"Hello? Mother?"

- - -

[ alrighty so this is the start of the lives! i'm going to let everyone get their posts in, then do a mass Kestrelwing reaction at the end! the order is as follows:

Life One: Perseverance by Birchpaw [ Jackpot ]
Life Two: Trust by Honeybee [ Zesty Mango ]
Life Three: Confidence by Melonpaw [ Rxmulus ]
Life Four: Retribution by Blossomclaw [ Papaya ]
Life Five: Ferocity by Starkpelt [ implimm ]
Life Six: Compassion by Stripeseed [ Snook ]
Life Seven: Hope by Willowpaw [ Rani ]
Life Eight: Malevolence by Rivalhaze [ Zero ]
Life Nine: Pride by Duskfall [ Rainquail ]

[ so how this'll work is the first person will post, then mention the next person after them, and so on. Rain, if you could mention me after Duskfall gives a live I'll come and do kes' big reply ^^

thank you all again! looking forward to the posts! ]

[Quasar]

Birchpaw
_________

The young apprentice watched silently as Kestrelwing appeared in front of her. The brown and white she-cat smiled sadly to herself before stepping forward and making herself known. "Welcome to Starclan" she mewed "With this life I give you perseverance. No matter what obstacles life throws at you, you have the power to overcome them" Birchpaw touched her nose to his, her smile losing the sadness it held prior, "When I was killed by Sparrowsnap, I didnt fight back. I just gave in, and that is truly what killed me" the she-cats voice caught in her throat as she remembered her final moments in life, "Do not make the same mistake I did" As she finished speaking, she stepped back and waited for the next cat to give the new leader a life

// spade, Zesty Mango

[Mango]

spade implimm (you’re up)

Honeybee stepped forward her green eyes glistening in the sunlight as she smiled,” I’m the mother of Gingerfrost. I’m going to give you a life of trusting others, my brother ruined my trust in everyone after he killed my mate because he was jealous that I was spending too much time with my mate and not him.” she meowed leaning forward to press her nose against the new leader of Riverclan.

[teddy.]

╰┈➤ Melonpaw | spade

The tremble in his paws were gone, that dull shake that always plagued the young apprentice had left him; now his chocolate tabby pelt was shining with stars, reflecting the galactic sky above.

Green eyes darted from the ground to Kestrelwing-- Kestrelstar. He could feel his phantom heart pounding in his chetz with excitement. He could hardly sit still!

Melonpaw stepped forward, large ears flattening and then perking; as if he couldn't decide if he could be excited or terrified!

"W-W-With this life, I-I give you courage," Oh, the dramatic irony. A thing he lacked in life, he now carried onto others in his death... "I w-w-want you to carry yourself with the confidence of a lion, o-or tiger if that takes youe fancy," A few large tears pricked the corner of those green pools as Melonpaw dared to catch Kestrelwings eyes. He stepped forward, pressing his twitchy nose against the cool living one of Kestrelstar.

But of course, Melonpaw was awkward enough to grab Kestrelstars attention further. "U-uh, could you... could you let Foxblaze th-that I miss her, please? Look after her, l-let her know I love her," His meow was a soft whisper, a large smile stretcbed from goofy ear to goofy ear, and a few melancholy tears damped his fluffy fur cheeks. "T-Thank you, Kestrelstar. I-I-I trust you to bring me justice, when the time comes."

[dino.]

>Blossomclaw<
Well, well, well, wasn’t this an interesting turn of events? A brown and white cat, body ripped and ragged with numerous ugly scars, watched silently amongst the ranks of the other gathered spirits, her green eyes narrowed and a sly grin tugging at one corner of her mouth. Her son had failed his own Clan, like she always knew he would (he’d been weak from the start, of course he would be weak in the end), but this one… this one held promise.

Blossomclaw pushed past the apprentice that had stepped forward before, the stench of death and decay prominent as she approached Kestrelwing. Her eyes held an unmistakable glint of malice as she stopped in front of him, and she tilted her head as if to study him for one single suspenseful moment.

”Kestrelwing,” she began smoothly, though her tone didn’t hide her malevolent intentions. Why bother? It wasn’t as if he could do anything about it. ”It’s a pleasure to meet you at last. You are already succeeding where my son failed - you are strong and sturdy in ways he could never be, and I look forward to watching you excel in your newfound position. But… you are missing something, I believe.”

Blossomclaw figured she could skip the whole ”With this life” rubbish - she was never one for formalities, anyhow. She leaned forward to touch her nose to Kestrelwing’s. ”I give you the life of swift punishment. There are already cats who have wronged you, but there will be many, many more in the future, despite all you have done for them. Use it to deliver quick and merciless punishment unto those who defy your rule. Perhaps you can use it to deal justice to those conniving thundercats that stalk your borders, hm? Just some... food for thought.”

With a wink she slipped back into the ranks of the gathered cats. Oh, she looked forward to watching him progress.


// spade

[plum]

This was not what she thought it would be.

Starkpelt sat by for some time, watching as StarClan descended upon Kestrelwing with idle warmth. But a chill ran down along her spine as the scene grew grim and eerie. From seemingly nothing, cats emerged as shadows from the deep. No stars lit their eyes as they observed the ceremony. And when Blossomclaw steps towards the warrior to grant him a life of her own, the she-cat swallows something akin to anger.

She wasn't going to let another cat from the place of no stars find an opportunity to swoop in- Starkpelt stands and steps down towards Kestrelwing before this other she-cat could turn.

"Kestrelwing," she greets the young tom with a smile, putting the dark forest cats to the back of her mind. "Congratulations, you are taking up a heavy mantle but you're doing so with such grace." She wanted to reassure him- Who knows how startling this whole ordeal had become for him. The poor thing must have felt lost, allowing those vile nightmares to seep in through the cracks of his mind.
"You met my children, you know. This is becoming a trend for RiverClan leaders, apparently. I hope my son didn't cause you too much of a headache. He's on a mission, it seems, and I don't think anyone will come in the way of that. If you happen to see him again, do try to exercise patience." The more she spoke of Fernpaw, the more it sounded as if she were apologizing for him. But her tone was full of love and admiration for who her son was growing into.

Moving on, she lets out a little, airy sigh. "This life that I shall give to you tonight is a life of ferocity. When something does not feel right, when you're at the end of the line with nothing else to give, and all that you have is yourself and your anger, spin that fury into ferocity. Wield it as you would your teeth and claws to tear away what lies in front of you."
Leaning in, Starkpelt gently touches her nose to his. She felt a little bit sorry for the pain that accompanied this life- She tried to choose something these other entities would pretend to give him, something the young leader would rely on in place of those iniquitous whispers uttered. Something Kestrelwing would know could carry his Clan into the future if taken and enacted.

When it is done, the molly steps back, regarding him in silence for another fleeting heartbeat before turning and padding away.

[ spade, Snook ]

[crumbl]

|| spade ; Rani ||

Stripeseed's ear flicked in alarm as a dark, mange-pelted she-cat bestowed a starless life upon Kestrelwing. So that was really a Dark Forest cat? And they had the power to come here. A growl started to rumble in the tom's chest.

But the tom swallowed down a lump of anger and forced his hackles to lay flat as Starkpelt blessed Kestrelwing. It wouldn't do any good to make himself a problem- especially as it didn't seem the cat was doing any harm, at least at the moment.

It was nearly his turn. Stripeseed turned his face to the starry cosmos and breathed in a deep gulp of the pristine air that never seemed to satisfy lungs that longed for the heathery, imperfect air of the endless plains of the moor he'd left behind. All his life, he himself had dreamed of becoming a leader: of guiding his Clan with a claw stricter than the most brilliant quartz. Only at the end of his time with the Clans had he finally accepted his role- to support and trust his leader, not to envy and criticize. He had always lacked that elusive quality that bound so many great Clans together. Always a dictator and never a father. He only wished he had learned sooner that there was more to being a true ruler than just an idea and a couple of pairs of paws. A true ruler had the grace and understanding to value strength without the sacrifice of their Clanmates.

He let out the breath he'd been holding in and approached the infant RiverClan leader. "Congratulations, Kestrelwing," he mewed awkwardly. "With this new authority must come responsibility and the burdens of an entire Clan, but I trust StarClan has chosen you wisely. You will be able to manage it.

"With this life, I give you compassion- not only for every kit, apprentice, elder and warrior in RiverClan, but also for the loners seeking refuge, the Clanless longing for a Clan, and the enemy in their helplessness. Remember that every act of justice must be tempered with mercy, and friendship with your Clan does not demean your right to lead. Hold on to your Clanmates. D-don't... let the ones you love slip away."

Stripeseed, normally reserved, was mildly surprised by the lump in his throat and the hot shimmering intensity that sprang to his eyes. Clearing his throat, the stately calico tom dipped his head respectfully to Kestrelwing, and let their noses gently touch in the gentle age-old gesture of peace.

For a moment his eyes lingered on the young tom tossed into the culpability of a clan of chaos, facing moons of problems and trials. But in Kestrelwing's face, he saw no weakness- anxiety, maybe, but strength too. He stepped back into the ranks of his fellow starry spirits, eyes falling back onto the amber grass soft beneath his paws. He had felt useless ever since his death during the Gathering Battle. But now a new sense of purpose invigorated him Perhaps this could be simply a new chapter of his story- the task of guiding the living not a chore, but an honor.

A faint smile crossed his lips. We will light your path.

[Rani]

Ooooh lots of cats! Willowpaw was excited this was huge! Some of the other starclan cats seemed concerned about the dark no star cats but... Well were they an issue? Cats had light and dark and both deserved to be loved! Still the small molly decided she was gonna help both give a life and give a light in the dark, just in case the tom needed it. The starey striped molly was basically a giant bouncy ball as she made her way over to Kestrelwing if unorthodoxly, grin wide and joyfull.

"Heya Kestrelwing!" She chirped "Uh Im not sure if you remember me or even know I died (I dont think my death was reported back and cats kinda assumed I was missing) but Im Willowpaw! Congratulations on being named leader! Im sure you'll do wonderful!" The little molly whole heartedly believed that. That Kestrelwing was going to do wonderful things himself and wonderful things for the clan. Sure things looked dire with thunderclan but Kestrelwing was a strong and surprisingly kind tom, Willowpaw wouldve been happy to have him as her leader.

"So I know you must be exhausted but with this life I give you a life of Hope! When things seem their darkest and most dire and you dont know where things might go you can always have hope Riverclan will rise again and be light once more! Try to apply this to cats to yeah? Everyone deserves trust and hope that they'll succeed and do better even when they've not been doing good, every cat has rocky periods and deserves a little faith!"
With that and a bright sparkling grin Willowpaw reached up and gently tapped the larger toms nose to hers, internally apologising for what he'd soon feel. The sensation of drowning was never good for a riverclan cat and even though her icy demise came with a spark of hope, that the cat she'd perished to save would be alright, it didnt negate that it'd be horrible.

Still she didnt step back immediately waiting for the darker tabby to recover before speaking again. "Sorry to bother you with this stuff but can you do something for me? The clan never learned I died and... Well I'd like some cat I was close to to get closure. I was really close to Snowfern and Splashleap so if you could tell them Im gone but alright happy and so proud of them I'd be really thankful! Ive got one message thats special though...." This one was less of a message to a close friend and more of her upholding her own gift, having hope in another.
"I wasnt really friends with Blizzardsky, more of playful advisories, I always thought be was mean. However, after I died Ive been watching a lot and Im actually super proud of how much he's grown! He cares for cats now and is odd but good with kits! He doesnt bully those weaker then him and even though hes a bit dumb I like to think if I was still alive I could be friends with him now! I would really love it if you could pass on how happy I am to see him grow and that I believe he can continue to do so, he can become a cat I can be proud to say I know!

Also... That I dont want my memory morned too much, I always liked making cats happy and my death making them sad isnt something I want. In the back of the apprentices den under a feathery moss nest right next to a root sticking through the den wall theres a shallow hole. Inside it theres a large hawk feather, some pretty shells and river stones, the perfect moss ball, and a really cool branch. I want Blizzardsky to have them, to make kits and others happy (him included). Can you do that for me?"

spade Zero

[Zero]

(I did a bit of power playing for dramatic effect, but if you don't like it you can ignore those parts! Or let me know and I can edit. Sorry, I should have asked first but I didn't want to wait.)

A crazed cackle rose from the darkness surrounding the starry field in which Kestralwing now stood. "Kestrelwing, oh Kestrelwing..." Rivalhaze purred, slinking out of the shadows with a twisted smile. "You must have quite the darkness in you for me to be allowed at such a sacred ceremony." The tom sighed. "Such an honor."

The shadows seemed to cling to his pelt as he drew closer, seemingly uneager to let him go. The whole scene seemed to grow darker and colder as he finally stopped in front of the new leader. The metallic scent of blood soon followed the tom as well. "Oh... you poor thing. You must be exhausted!" He cooed as if Kestrelwing was a kit, pausing a moment for dramatic effect before laughing once more. The tom faintly remembered how tired he had been after his own ceremony moons ago, but his memories from his life among the living had fogged over time - he had grown colder and more distant from so many moons in the dark forest.

Finally, the tom cast a cool glare around at the other cats that seemed to linger at the ceremony before locking his gaze upon Kestrelwing's. "I am Rivalhaze," His eyes darkened, and his smile grew wider as the reality of that name sunk in. "With this life, I gift you the power of malevolence. Use it well to punish those who do wrong to you or any of those of RiverClan." The tom grabbed him eagerly by the shoulder then, pulling him forward roughly to meet noses, his claws digging in ever so slightly.

After what probably seemed to be like an eternity to the poor recipient, he pulled away. "Make RiverClan the greatest once again," He growled as he backed away slowly, the shadows beckoning him back to his place among them. "I'll be watching... and perhaps, waiting."
spade Rainquail

[Abyssopelagic]

Duskfall watched from afar, as each cat offered up a life to Kestrelwing, her little bird. She marveled at just how far he'd come and felt a strong surge of pride and love for her son.
As much as she wanted to step forward first, having heard his call.... she hung back, allowing the others to gift him their lives, wanting each of them to have his attention and respect. She would have time to speak to him after, when she gifted him her life.

She watched uneasily as the Dark Forest cats stepped away after giving Kestrelwing their lives, but didn't dwell on it. It was her turn now.
She stepped foward, finally, and made her way to Kestrelwing's -soon to be Kestrelstar- side, pushing past the lingering cats.
She smiled to him as she leaned foward to embrace him. She missed these little moments with him.
"Hello, my little bird. You've come quite the distance to get here."
She held him as close to her as she could. They only had a few moments together and she didn't want to squander those precious few moments.
"I may not have been by your side, but I have watched your growth and the path you've taken and I could not be prouder."

She gave herself another moment before stepping backwards, donning a more ceremonial aire. Her nose pressed to his and she closed her eyes.
"I gift to you, Kestrelstar, the life of Pride. Pride in yourself and pride in your Clanmates. May you feel the same pride I felt every day I saw you grow, and you've grown so much. You may not have me and Eelsting in your life anymore, but now the Clan will be your family and I pray they'll be with you every step of your journey when I cannot be there."

She let the power of her life flow through to him, every moment of achievement flashing through her mind. Once it was over, she took another step back, watching him carefully.
"Do not give up on yourself or your Clan, little bird. There will always be opportunities to fix mistakes."
With her time now up, she turned away reluctantly, casting glances over her shoulder as she left, but not before making sure he woke up safely, guiding his journey back to the land of the living.


spade

[spade]

He hadn’t been expecting anyone to step forward. This was all just a dream as Snakeheart had indicated, nothing more than an illusion brought on by fatigue and grief. It would be over soon enough, and Kestrelwing would be free to head back to where he was needed most; his Clan. There was much work to be done, and each moment he spent here playing pretend among the stars was another wasted time he could be spent attending to the ever-mounting duties as leader.

Just as he was about to scoff and force himself to wake up, a sparkle caught the gray tabby’s gaze. Small at first, then glowing brighter, causing him to squint a bit as it came into view. A pristine row of nine cats - a coincidence, considering it was common knowledge that nine lives were to be received? - all seated before him and watching him with unreadable expressions. ”Who are you all?” he asked, though a part of him already knew the starry void with provide no answer to any of his questions, let alone that one.

Jackpot
Small paws made their way forward, and Kestrelwing’s gaze rested on a vaguely familiar apprentice. Birchpaw... a name that had almost been forgotten by him. But the kids reveal did startle him a bit. StarClan? So it did exist? Or was it his mind playing tricks on him? There wasn’t much time to debate the topic as the first life flowed through him.

Pain was the first thing he felt, as if a heavy boulder was crushing down on him. Breathless and frightful, and wanting to move, Kestrelwing found himself frozen in place as the scene played out before his eyes; slowly, the boulder’s weight lifted and revealed him to be... pushing it up? Surely that had to be some sort of twisted metaphor. Perseverance... the ability to push through and trudge on.

Ebbing away slowly now, the tabby sucked in a sharp breath. Was that what it felt like to receive a life? How was he going to withstand the next eight? Words caught in his throat, and he only mumbled a small “thank you” to Birchpaw’s retreating back.

Zesty Mango
The next cat to come up was unfamiliar to him. He did know of Gingerfrost though - so this was her mother. At least all the cats that were approaching him were of RiverClan. That put his mind at ease as the next life flowed through him. Much calmer than its predecessor, Kestrelwing felt a sense of clarity, of security that was brought on by being able to place faith in those that surrounded him. It was a life he definitely needed, and a trait that he’d been working on.

”You raised quite the fighter,” the tom breathed to Honeybee, referring to Gingerfrost. She’d been part of the predators patrol all those moons ago, and though he was a grump to most, even he knew to give respect where it was earned.

Rxmulus
The next cat to approach him nearly stopped his heart. Melonpaw. The young tom, slain at the claws of ShadowClan and left to be crow-food at the border. Anger boiled within him, churning in his stomach until his claws slid out and dug into the starry soil beneath him. He’d challenged Dawnstar about it at the last Gathering but received no response - her Clan would pay.

This life was warm and strong, flowing through him like greenleaf water. Strength filled every inch of him, and a sense of pride left him feeling tall and able to withstand anything. He could see himself standing on the Streamstone, the sun illuminating his figure as he lead RiverClan.

It was his era now.

Short. Too short. It was over just as Kestrelwing reopened his gaze, grief clouding the yellow depths of it. Solemnly, the tabby nodded. ”Your death will not be in vein, Melonpaw. I promise.” His words were soft, and he knew that one of his first tasks would be to deliver the message to Foxblaze. She almost felt like a mother to him now, despite their lack of interactions. His closeness with Snakeheart provided that.

Papaya
As the warmth faded from him, it was replaced by a bone chilling sensation. Kestrelwing’s eyes scanned the starry ranks for the next cat, too caught up in what was happening to notice the two dark figures that were off to the side. One of them stepped forward, revealing herself and the stench she carried. His paws were frozen like ice to the spot he stood, and Kestrelwing felt as though he couldn’t look away.

Who was this? There were no stars in her pelt, and a gleam danced in the depths of her eyes. Was this... Buckstar’s mother? Anger at the name gave heat to him, and instinctively he let out a low growl. The leader of ThunderClan... the one cat in the forest he wanted to sink his claws into more than Dawnstar. The coyotes were his fault. He’d get RiverClan their revenge.

The life that passed through him echoed in screams in his mind and Kestrelwing had to grit his teeth and shut his eyes. Pain of RiverClan’s grief piled onto his heart and spilled out of every faucet. The cries of his bleeding Clanmates tugged him in every direction, while the shadowy threats stalked in circles around them. ThunderClan. ShadowClan. Coyotes. Traps. ThunderClan.

He was panting by the time it was over, and when his yellow eyes reopened they seemed to be a bit darker. Part of him knew this cat must’ve come from a place where no stars shined - the Dark Forest. But he didn’t care. She understood his grievances towards the forest-dwellers.

They would pay.

He simply nodded in her direction, accepting the life without any fuss as he stood up fully once more, shaking his pelt in preparation for the next life to be given.

implimm
The scent that carried on the breeze was different than the rest, and came as a bit of a shock - though not as much as the shadowy figure had brought. The moorland scent was unmistakable, and he was reminded of a certain brown tabby tom. Something seemed to connect the two, and as she began speaking he understood why.

This was Fernpaw’s mother. The little rascal that had proved to be quite the cat during one of his solo patrols to the border. Completely unexpected, Kestrelwing found himself attached to the young tom, the usual antics that he found annoying were rather... tolerated, at the very least.

As he’d expected with the life name, pain shot through him like a bullet. Fury turned his vision red, blinding him on all accounts. He tried to open his jaws to scream, but no sound came out as the gray tabby coward helplessly under the influence of the life. All the anger he felt towards those who had wronged himself, RiverClan... it was all brought to the surface with this life.

Blood pounded in his ears as the life took hold, beginning to fade away. He was breathless once more, yellow eyes staring up at Starkpelt. ”Your son... I’m certain he will make a great warrior for WindClan,” he breathed, giving her a nod as he regained his composure. What a treat to meet the mother of one of the only apprentices he actually was fond of?

Snook
Perhaps it was because their Clans were allies, but Kestrelwing found that he was not surprised that another WindClan cat stepped forward. He was unfamiliar to him - perhaps only seen in passing at a Gathering - but then again the only cat he really knew through and through here had been Melonpaw.

Turning his head up so that his nose could receive the life, Kestrelwing felt another sense of calm and peace wash over him, soft like waves lapping at his paws. For a moment he could see the shoreline clearly in his mind, and with it a few blank figures. He knew them each by role; loner, rogue, kitty-pet - The Clan-less, those who lived without law or rule and did as they pleased. Those who had killed his mother.

Anger tried to rise up to combat the newfound serenity, but wasn’t as strong. Kestrelwing didn’t like it, but the life flowed through him nonetheless.

Fixing his gaze onto Stripeseed, the gray tabby simply nodded in response, unable to respond to him. He had his own issues he would have to learn to overcome and control if this life were to take full effect.

Rani
The next little flutter bug that seemed to bounce right up to him nearly rocked the earth beneath his paws. Was that... No. She had only gone missing. He remembered the day her disappearance was reported. Such a friendly face around camp, brightening the days of even the grumpiest warrior.

She was... dead. How? Who did it? So many questions tumbled into his mouth that opened, ready to let them fly, but no sound accompanied them. The grief they'd felt at seeing Melonpaw resurfaced. Here was another RiverClan apprentice taken too soon. She had an entire life to live, a warrior name to earn, and a Clan to fight for... and all of that was now gone.

Just as sweet as the cat before him, so was the life that spilled into him as she touched his nose. The energy seemed to flow seamlessly from Willowpaw into every crevice, lifting his spirits and settling him down gently in a field of potential. Quite birdsong fluttered over head as he opened his eyes to reveal a pink hued sky stretching overhead. "Willowpaw..."

There was more he needed to say, damnit. He needed to figure out exactly what had happened and who was responsible. Because, she couldn't have just... run away to die. No. It didn't sit right. But the molly was already talking, and Kestrelwing knew it best to just listen.

Snowfern and Splashleap - Splashleap, his deputy. Of course he'd share the message. The next cat though... that would be tough. Blizzardsky would probably avoid him as much as he could when he came back, lives in tow. But he'd get the message to them, even if it meant dealing with hateful words and lashing claws.

"I will deliver your message," Kestrelwing promised, sadness momentarily pooling in his gaze before it was washed away.

Zero
The same darkness that had crept in with Blossomclaw seemed to not only return, but double now. Blotting out the stars of the lives prior, casting shadows to every part of the starry territory. A dreading sense of unease plagued Kestrelwing's heart, and once more he found that his paws were rooted to the ground.

Rivalhaze's laugh was so chilling that it sent shivers down his spine, and as much as the tabby tried to duck his head, he couldn't drag his gaze away. The growing abyss slunk closer, almost like an enemy of the night, closer and closer until it stuck to him. Sticky and oozing like crimson blood - like the droplets that now sprung briefly from him as his shoulder was gripped by an iron-clad claw.

Agony. Misery. Retribution. A storm of turmoil cascaded inside of his heart, tearing it apart and replacing bits of it with withered wisps, thirsty for revenge. A shrouded shade of red took over his eyes for a moment, and it was hard to not loose himself completely in the given life. The power... the ability to extinguish life from the forest under a single claw... it was tempting. Drawing on his need to avenge those of RiverClan who had fallen before him - fallen for him, even.

An eternity. That's how much time felt like had passed - as if Kestrelwing had lived out his life time only to die here, at the claws of the unfamiliar cloaked figure. There were no words as the red tint faded from his gaze, fog clearing as he watched Rivalhaze step backwards.

It didn't register to him yet, just how important that life would prove to be later on.

Rainquail
Was that it? Was it over now? As Rivalhaze had disappeared back into the shadows, an eerie quite fell over his surroundings. The darkness lifted then, and with it the veil that had been hiding the one cat he'd hoped to see but never thought he would. Breath caught in his throat and for a moment, all the anxiety and stress and burden melted away and he was moons younger, transported back to a time when the only worry he had was warrior training and who to play moss-ball with.

"Mother..."

Every inch of his body relaxed at once, sliding into her embrace and staying there as long as allowed. He'd only seen her once since her death, when he'd almost died at the claws of the coyotes. But seeing her now, during this ceremony, it had to be more than a dream. It had to be real, at least a part of it. His heart longed for him to believe while his mind dug its paws in the mud. A back and forth battle that only resulted in tears springing to his eyes.

The life that his mother provided him brought with it no pain. There was no anguish or agony. Her love wrapped him up like a comforting blanket, and in his mind flashed the memories of their short time together. The butterfly hunt, Eelsting's warrior ceremony, territory strolls... She had been by his side even when she was not physically there. She had been there when he'd doubted himself, yet found a way through the shrouded mist. Even now, as the life ebbed and flowed, she was here, proving to him that maybe, just maybe, there was an afterlife after all.

"I miss you so much..." His voice cracked under the weight of his grief, yellow eyes betraying just how broken this moment had made him. But the new lives within him gave him the strength to stand, a newfound confidence swelling in his chest. He wanted more time with his mother. He wanted to run the widest plains with her and swim in the largest rivers. He wanted her...

But what he wanted and what he needed to do were often two startling different things, as he was coming to learn.

- - -

Before any objection could be made, Kestrelwi - no, he was Kestrelstar now - found himself waking up at the base of the shimmering rock. The ceremony swirled in his mind like mist, and for just a moment he remained still, letting it wash over him. He'd seen so many cats he'd thought long gone... so many of RiverClan that had been lost...

With a new determined look, the gray tabby pushed himself to his paws and made his way out of the den to where Snakeheart would be waiting. "Snakeheart?" Kestrelstar called, yellow gaze searching for the familiar russet fur. It was time to return to RiverClan.

[Quasar]

Eveningmist
_____________

The night was quiet as the soon to be leader padded slowly into the starcave. Even though it hadnt exactly been advised to start moving around so soon after loosing a leg, Evening had insisted on it. The longer he waited to get his lives, the higher risk thunderclan was at of losing yet another leader. As he ducked through the opening, the toms jaw dropped slightly in awe of the scene before him. Moonbeams shone on the surface of the large quartz, bouncing off of the stone and illuminating the entire cave in a silvery glow.

The tom spent a moment staring at it in silent awe before snapping back to the two cats who were accompanying him. Clearing his throat, he waved his tail at the cave and gave them a small smile, "Are you two ready?" he asked, giving both of the medicine cats a sorrow-filled yet hopeful look. Though it had taken the death of one of his closest friends, he was ready to lead his beloved clan to a new, brighter future. He just hoped that Buckstar would still guide him, even from starclan where he surely resided.

// Panda1440 Exis
takes place a day or two after kes' ceremony

[Panda1440]

The young medicine cat apprentice had yet to travel to the Starcave herself,,, it was quite a sight to behold- the shiny white stone, the beams of light. With the silence, she assumed Eveningmist and her mentor were also taking in the display. It feels so.. so special here-

"Yes. Ready whenever you are." Iciclepaw responded with a slight nod of the head.

[ Exis Jackpot]

[Exis]

Sunhowl hadn't been here yet but... It was spectacular. The moon reminded him of his brother... where was he anyway? He shook out his fur to rid the thought and looked to Eveningmist. He gave a small smile, the largest it would get though, "Born ready captain." he said, jokingly of course. His growly voice echoing around the cave made him feel like he was a part of something larger, and therefore he was larger.
Jackpot Panda1440

[Quasar]

Eveningmist
_____________

A shaky inhale followed the medicine cats words, the nerves just starting to set in. Oh stars, this was really happening. Rolling his broad shoulders and trying to shake out his nerves, Evening shot the two one last smile before turning to gaze directly at the stone. Swallowing thickly, he slowly padded forward on unsteady paws, still not quite used to only having three legs. A moments hesitation followed as he took one last look at the cave around him. When he woke back up, would the world seem any different? Would he still think the same? Stars, would he even be the same cat?

He let out a weak chuckle at the thought, trying to brush off the worries. He would be fine...wouldnt he? The rosetted tabby took a deep breath before dipping his head to rest his nose against the stone. He closed he eyes, and the world went black around him.

// Mention me and the person who goes after you when you post! Stick to the order please!

1: Blackhaze - Exis
2: Grassfable - Snook
3: Rowanpaw - Lavender'fur
4: Gravelblaze - Panda1440
5: Pinepaw - Shade.
6: Dogspirit - Rxmulus
7: Applepaw - spade
8: Rainywhisker - implimm
9: Buckstar - Papaya

[Exis]

Blackhaze stood among the cats of the stars, noticeably darker than the starry-pelted felines. Dark tendrils of blackness seemed to follow him even to here, where they should not be. He'd been watching this for a long time, awaiting his chance. He knew why the other leaders we failing, because they didn't care. They didn't care about each and every individual life. It was pitiful in his eyes. Each life mattered, each was family. That all would be fixed now, with its cat here.

Eveningmist. An interesting name, perhaps had he gone to Thunderclan, they could have been friends. Instead, he went to Shadowclan, and now he was dead. nevermind that, he was here to do a job. To give this cat a life.

He stepped forward to stand in front of the tom. He seemed strong enough, now he and the cats of the stars may make him stronger. "Hello Eveningstar, I am Blackhaze." he mewed, dipping his head. As he straightened up he smiled warmly, not wanting the darkness to scare the other cat off. "With this life, I give you unity, your clan is your family, protect them fiercely" he mewed before touching his nose to Eveningstar's. He saw a brief flash of all of his family members as his life ran from him and to the new leader, eager to be alive once more.

As he stepped back he gave a smile and a wink, dream well young leader, we shall see each other again. he thought to himself as he moved away.

Jackpot Snook

[crumbl]

|| Jackpot ; Lavender'fur ||

Grassfable's normally genial eyes blazed as a Dark Forest cat gifted the infant leader his first life. She might be old, but she wasn't oblivious. It pained her to think of all the struggles that faced the soon-to-be Eveningstar as he stepped into a new pattern of living- would he have not only StarClan cats but also starless ones visiting his dreaming hours?

Normally, Grassfable was as kindly as any cat got. A mother to all, enemy to none. Some cats passed her off as airheaded and chattery. But seasoned though she may be, she still had enough life left in her to care about the recent events of the Clans. Anger boiled in her at the thought of the pointless death of Buckstar, the weight of grief Eveningmist would still have to bear as he filled his former leader's place. For moons, treacherous cats like Dawnstar had led the Clans farther and farther from the age-old wisdom of the Code. No longer would that be. With purpose in her eyes, she stepped forward to deliver her own life.

"I was before your time," she began thoughtfully as she approached Eveningmist, "but at heart, I'm still a ThunderClan cat, though and through. Unity may be important." She flashed a sharp glance toward her shadowy predecessor. "But integrity even more so. With this life, I give you justice to lead your Clan and make fair decisions for not only your own Clan's sake but for the sake of all four Clans. Lead them in the wisdom passed down from your warrior ancestors, and uphold the Code as is your duty." But her voice softened as she leaned in. "But remember. For every act of justice, temper it with mercy." She leaned down and touched noses with the tom, earnestness warming her chest as she let the contact linger. Then she stepped back into the ranks of her fellow spirits and allowed herself some motherly pride as she looked on the new leader of ThunderClan.

He may not be one of the kits I raised. But if this is the type of cat my Clan is bringing up, they're in good hands.

[Lavender'fur]

Next: Gravelblaze - Panda1440
Jackpot

;Rowanpaw;
The once RiverClan apprentice was surprised he had been chosen to give ThunderClan's leader a life, but for now he was just enjoying the moment. Rowanpaw watched the other cat's performance, and when it was his turn, stepped forwards.

"Hello, Eveningmist," he meowed politely.
"I never met you in the land of the living, but I am here in dreams to give you your third life.
With this life, I give you forgiveness. Some may have made mistakes, but you shall learn to forgive them, even when the most unforgivable mistakes have been made."

Rowanpaw sighed sorrowfully, then stepped forward to touch noses with the new leader. He paused, then whispered,
"I was killed by one who loved me, but in StarClan I have learned to forgive. I hope you learn this skill earlier than I did,"

"I hope we meet again in the paths of dreaming."

Rowanpaw turned to join the other starry cats, glancing over his shoulder, with eyes that he hoped would say 'Forgive yourself' to the new leader. Rowanpaw could only guess at what the tom felt about Buckstar's death, but the apprentice was pretty sure he blamed himself.

Rowanpaw sat in the starry ranks once again, examining the rest of the ceremony with interest.

[Panda1440]

So a Dark Forest cat gave a life? It was a nice one though- The other two where also important qualities Eveningmist would need,, and it was certainly nice for a RiverClan cat to come.. Now my turn-. A small smile was on the stary cat's maw when he came forth from the light. All the sudden crazy events of the moon were really tugging his heart deeper into the depths. It took some strength to remember that even though trouble was coming, there was still hope that came with changes. And now,,, I have the privilege of watching the first steps- "Welcome Eveningmist,,, my name is Gravelblaze- I died falling into the cold winter river, a death you may have heard of." Or not... Light grey paws moved forward, as the tom touched his nose to the new leader's own. "With this life, I give you trust- trust in yourself and trust in your clanmate's ideas" With that, he retreated to watch the rest of the ceremony. [ Jackpot Shade.]

[Shade.]

Jackpot
Rxmulus

As the previous cat backed away a new feline stepped up. A skinny, wispy one. Her body seemed somewhat disproportionate and unhealthy. A long, vicious scar adorned her face. Unlike most StarClan cats, she bore signs of pain and struggle. But her blue eyes were bright and full of fire. She'd stayed that way, on her own wish. To remember, to never forget, until she didn't need to anymore...
"Hello, Eveningmist, a pleasure to meet you. You may have caught a glimpse of me but I haven't been significant to any events." Pinepaw said. Her voice, a natural high pitch of a young cat, sounded as ancient as the forest, full of so much buried pain and wisdom.
"With this life, I give you health of mind. In order for you to love your clan you must first love yourself and think clearly. The balance of your thoughts is the balance of the entire clan." she said and backed away into the crowd. Whatever small bit of long lost mortality in her that was left made her feel a prickle of embarrassment at having such an important role, if it really was important...

[teddy.]

╰┈➤ Dogspirit | Jackpot

Dogspirit stepped forwards; the young molly was still her adult self; the happiest day of her life being the day Starclan blessed her with kittens. But now... she wasn't with them. It didn't matter, she wasn't here for that right now.

She didn't need to introduce herself, knowing the deputy no doubt knew her name. "Eveningstar, I bless you with the life of a blossoming future. The past doesn't define you; Thunderclan may not run through your veins but it beats within your heart, within your spirit. With this life, you will disprove those who contain you to your past," She stepped forward, pressing scarred nose to his.

She paused before stepping back when the life was given, "If you don't look after my kittens... I swear," She didn't need to finish the threat to know he would take it seriously, hopefully.

[spade]

So much was going on! From the day of her death to now, Applepaw felt caught up in a whirlwind - one moment she was with Rainywhisker and Buckstar, and the next they were leading her down here to...

"Eveningmist!"

She couldn't hide the excitement in her voice. Green eyes lit up - having retained both now in death - and she dashed forward, disregarding the fact that StarClan was suppose to act with grace and elegance. Applepaw was way too excited to remember any of that. Eveningmist was here! She didn't know the soon to be leader all that well, but if Buckstar had selected him as deputy then he was a great cat in her book.

"Oh, right. I'm giving you a life!" A laughed echoed from her, though she wasn't at all nervous or embarrassed. Whiskers twitching, Applepaw straightened herself up, head tilted back so she could meet the leader's gaze. "I'm suppose to give you the life of Tireless Energy - like an apprentice has! Use it for when you feel physically drained or mentally exhausted - to keep going and push on with the help of your Clanmates." Extedning her nose, she reached up to touch it delicately to Eveningmists, letting the life flow through her.

As it ebbed away, Applepaw stepped back, green eyes glowing. "Just because I gave you the life of energy though doesn't mean you shouldn't sleep!" she added with a smile. "Just wanted to clarify." With that, the young tortoiseshell dipped her head and bounced back within the starry ranks, curiously awaiting the next life giver.

// Jackpot implimm

[plum]

Nothing felt worse than standing among these cats waiting to grant Eveningmist a life. Rainywhisker waits, keeping his gaze low. Life after life, all these words... The marbled tabby felt unrested. There were cats here who died with him, on the same day, to the same cat. Dogspirit, Applepaw. He wasn't about to look around, but he had the feeling that that useless tom was here, too.

When it's his turn, Rainywhisker rises to his paws. He makes his way towards Eveningmist, copper eyes burning as he approaches him. The stars in his fur ripple and flicker.

"Eveningmist," he meows brusquely with a nod of his head.
They were never familiar with one another, and it was too late now.
"What happened wasn't your fault. Don't blame yourself for what happened to me."
The other tom had accidentally murdered Rainywhisker. It was Lionstorm's fault. The deranged cat had thrown the former medicine cat into Eveningmist's claws.
Rainywhisker shuts his eyes and inhales slowly- The stars shimmering within them disappear.

"The life I'll give to you is..."
Willpower.
"Ambition."
Opening his eyes again, he holds Eveningmist in a hard stare. The starlight in his copper eyes had faded.
"The ambition to pursue what you desire and grab it in your claws. The ambition to take ThunderClan to new heights- The ambition to ACT."

It was like a ripple over a pool of water. As they disappeared, his gaze burned brighter. Fiercer. Stars becoming swallowed up by new shadows and laces of darkness, Rainywhisker turns his back on the ones he once held in high regard.

"Ambition will carry you and ThunderClan where our past leader failed us. Where our past leaders have failed us. RiverClan sits contempt and gloating, killing us as they feel, refusing to hear us. You'll show them the truth. You can force their eyes open, Eveningmist. You must. Let my life guide that. For the good of ThunderClan."

Touching his nose to Eveningmist, he lets this life surge over into the tom. After a couple of heartbeats, he turns on his heels and stalks away.

The great stars did nothing for them. They never cared, they never guided. Eveningmist had a shot at rectifying all of that if he acted. And Rainywhisker would push for that action with all of his might from where he was now. Taking one last look at Dogspirit and Applepaw, the tom continues on beyond the stars.

[ Jackpot, Papaya ]

[dino.]

// Jackpot, Exis, Panda1440

>Buckstar<
He never thought he’d see this day come so soon.

It sounded selfish, really, as if he was hoping he would have remained leader longer, and had not handed the position he’d worked so hard to earn over to his deputy. But in reality, he was shouldering an almost crushing sense of guilt - guilt from the violence that had befallen his Clan, and from the future onslaught that was no doubt on its way. This… was his fault, wasn’t it?

He watched from the group of gathered spirits, shoulders hunched, as those he recognized all too well (and even those he didn't) stepped forward to gift their lives - Applepaw, Gravelblaze, Pinepaw, Dogspirit, Rainywhisker (flinching as the tom's star-scattered pelt was consumed by shadows, at the words he spoke). And then suddenly, all too soon, it was his turn.

With a quiet inhale and then a sigh, he rose from the starry forms and padded slowly to pause in front of Eveningmist, briefly wondering if his new appearance would be shocking - he lacked his scars and his anxiety, and he was much smaller than he had formerly been. At first glance he almost seemed carefree, maybe even happy. His gaze drifted carefully over the tom’s bulky form, lingering only briefly on the newly missing leg (when in the world had that happened? Would it have happened had he still been alive?) before settling on his face. A regretful smile tugged at the corners of Buckstar’s mouth.

”I’m going to be honest with you, I never really thought I would be standing here in front of you so soon. I was sure we had at least a couple of moons left,” he tried to joke, before settling into a more serious tone. ”But I have no doubt in my mind that you’ll be an incredible leader. Perhaps one of the greatest the Clans have ever seen.” He meant it, wholeheartedly, with every fiber of his being. ”It’s a shame I wasn’t able to stay with you longer. Maybe I could have prevented some of this from happening. I am… so sorry. For everything.”

Done. Now. Do it. Don’t hesitate any longer, don’t stall for time with him, it won’t make this last any longer. Finish this.

He stepped forward once, twice, until his nose gently bumped Eveningmist’s. And with that light touch came a wave of mixed emotions that burned hot and bright. Strength, adrenaline, a nearly overpowering sense of love combined with the urge to shield and defend.

”I offer you the life of guardianship. Keep them safe, with all that you have and more. They are far more than your Clanmates - they’re family. Violence is brewing and it will be unleashed. Use this to safeguard them from what will befall them. They may irritate you, push your buttons, even infuriate you at times, but remember that they are still family. They look to you for guidance in times of hardship and even for minor problems - please don’t abandon them when they need you, dear friend.” Not like I did.

He pulled back to study Eveningmist’s face, and another smile, this one sadder, played at his lips. ”Good luck, Eveningstar.”

He turned and vanished back into the group of cats, fighting the urge to stay longer. No, any longer would be far too painful.

[Glitch_Candle]

Sprucefall went into the Starcave. She loved the beautifulness of it all, and wanted to try to talk to StarClan, despite all of her previous attempts failing.

[Quasar]

Eveningstar
_____________

The huge tom blinked open his eyes to face the starry landscape before him. It was even more breathtaking than he had expected, and for a moment he was caught in a moment of silent awe. He gulped, light blue eyes slowly taking in the area around him.

Though it looked so much like his dear forest, everything was glazed in a silvery sheen, the greenery lush and inviting. Even though he had never before been there, it felt almost like home. Was this truly what the cats of starclan saw every during waking moment of their day? It almost seemed too good to be true.

Echoing pawsteps shook him out of his stupor, his gaze turning to focus on the arriving cats. Most of them had sparkling stars dusting their pelts, their figures shrouded and unrecognizable beyond a starry silhouette. But one cat in particular immediately caught his attention.

Darkness surrounded this cat, some of it oozing from his body in inky black tendrils. Though he knew the cat was there to gift him a life, Eveningmist could still feel his body tense.

Exis
As that very cat stepped forwards, the new leaders eyes widened in recognition. He knew this cat. Though he was several moons older than Blackhaze, he had still shared dens with the dark tom for a couple moons. Still, he didnt find it all that likely that Blackhaze would remember him.

They werent even friends, after all. Just acquaintances, and even that might be pushing it. The warm smile that graced the darker toms lips reassured him a bit, his shoulders relaxing ever-so-slightly.

Eveningmist dipped his head in response to the introduction, staying silent throughout. It was obvious the other tom already knew him, so there was no need to return the greeting. As their noses touched, the leader felt a surge of energy rush through his body, every hair on his body standing on end.

The effects of the life didnt feel painful in the slightest, instead just strengthening his urge to fight for his clan. Blood may not bind him to any of his clanmates, but so many of them were already more of his family than anyone in shadowclan had ever been to him. This next step seemed only natural.

After the surge of energy slowly ebbed away, he shot a smile to Blackhaze, a wordless thanks being sent the other toms way.

Snook
The next cat to step up was one he didnt quite recognize. Eveningmist had only lived in thunderclan for the past sixteen moons, so it was likely this she-cat passed on many moons prior to that. Still, he accepted the life with open arms.

This life brought to him an overwhelming feeling of pride. Not in himself, but in his clan. As he stood there, he felt as if he had gained moons upon moons of age, and with it came the wisdom that his senior warriors and ancestors held.

As the she-cat spoke, Eveningmist nodded in understanding, "I promise, I will lead thunderclan towards a bright future."/B] he mewed, a smile growing on his maw as he watched her retreat back to the line of cats.

Lavender'fur
The next cat to step up was also one who was unrecognizable to him. As the cat stepped forwards, the smell of Riverclan flowed through his nostrils, his eyes clouding as he realized the cats origins.

The scent alone reminded him of what had happened in his camp the day before, the vision of lionstorms blood-soaked pelt flashing through his mind. Eveningmist shook his head to clear his thoughts, eyes screwing shut momentarily. No, there was no time to be thinking about that now.

With this life, the first thing he felt was immense anger. Rage seemed to spread through his body, but he couldnt find the source of it. But, just as it had started, it already began to fade away. His mind felt at peace again, empathy taking the place that anger had filled just moments ago. Eveningmist dipped his head in thanks, watching as the cat fell back into the group of cats.

Panda1440
After multiple cats who he knew nothing of, this next cat was one he knew. Gravelblaze, the father of Iciclepaw. The tom smiled lightly to the other cat, [B]"You have not been forgotten, Thunderclan still grieves for your untimely death" he murmured, leaning forward to meet his touch.

A feeling of warmth and understanding came with this next life, a welcome sensation among what he knew would come later on in the ceremony. Trust was something every leader needed to have in their clanmates, and he was no exception.

Just as the others did, the sensations brought by this life slowly faded, but it still left an imprint on his mind. Once again, Eveningmist spoke his thanks as he watched Gravelblaze return to the line of cats.

Shade.
The next cat to step forward was also one he recognized, if only slightly. Pinepaw, yet another cat to die all too soon. He frowned as he noticed her sunken in form, his heart aching as he thought of all she had gone through.

She had died so young, but she still bore the scars that most older warriors had the fortune of avoiding. Light blue eyes clouded in sorrow, his head lowering so that he could touch his nose to hers.

Immediately, he felt as if he were soaring through the sky, all his worries eased. With this feeling of freedom came some relief, the guilt that weighed in on him alleviating ever so slightly.

Eveningmist knew that this life would help him more than he could imagine, and he was thankful beyond belief that he had the privilege of gaining it.

Rxmulus
Great Starclan... he had no idea that he would be seeing her face again this soon. The sight of Dogspirit had brought back the guilt that had just moments ago been lifted from him. His shoulders slumped as pained eyes examined the former-queens body, taking in her scar-free apprearance.

"Dogspirit... Im so so sorry. If only I had been able to save you..." his voice cracked with emotion as he spoke to her, his mew no louder than a whisper.

Before he knew it, yet another life had been bestowed upon him. The image of a blooming rose filled his mind, blossoming into a gorgeous flower. The life meant so much more to him than he had originally thought, the fact that Dogspirit was also once a Shadowclan cat making it that much more meaningful.

A look of recognition grew on his face as he met her gaze, a steady nod following. "Dont worry, they are in good paws" he smiled, his heart throbbing as he thought of the now parentless kits.

spade
Applepaw, yet another cat whose life had been meaninglessly stolen by Lionstorm. The smile he wore just moments prior was replaced by a look of pain and immense guilt. He could have saved her, too. But he didnt.

It was his fault, no matter what she said to try to convince him otherwise he knew that in the end, it was all because of him.

Still, at the sight of her joyous expression he had to force the smile back onto his face. She looked so happy, so... free. He had to at least try to stay positive, for her sake.

Eveningmist immediately felt an overwhelming amount of energy rush through his body, the immense urge to act overpowering his previous thoughts of guilt. The leaders eyes seemed to come alive, his body straightening and his head held high.

Unlike the other lives, however, this one didnt seem to fade away. It did to an extent, of course, but even as the apprentice padded back he still felt the crackle of energy pulsing under his pelt.

implimm
Though he had felt sadness when faced with the sight of two of the cats lost just the day before, the appearance of rainywhisker brought an even stronger sense of guilt. Eveningmists eyes clouded as tears threatened to spill down his cheeks, his jaw clenched in an attempt to hold back gasping breaths.

Once again, a cat who died because of him. But this time, he was the one who had brought Rainywhiskers death upon him. It was his claws who struck the other tom down, and even if it was accidental, Eveningmist knew that he would never be able to gain Rainywhiskers forgiveness.

As the light in the former medicine cats eyes faded into nothingness, Eveningmist could feel a chill run through his body. What...what was happening? His focus was no longer on the life being gifted to him, but on the strange scene unfolding before him.

Shadows seemed to swallow Rainywhiskers body, engulfing him in darkness. Dread pierced through the leaders body, his eyes widening in disbelief.

He shook his head slowly, light blue eyes blinking rapidly as he silently pleaded that he was wrong. "W-why...? Why are you going down that path?" he choked out, stumbling forwards a single step.

The effects of the life were overpowered by the immense feeling of guilt that strengthened every moment Rainywhisker was within his vision. His heart felt hollow, invisible walls closing in on him and compressing his body. At that moment, he felt so weak, so helpless.

It was all his fault.

Papaya
The appearance of the former leader did little to relax Eveningmist, instead only worsening his grief. A strained sob escaped him before he could stop it, the tears he fought so hard to hold back finally escaping and streaming down his face like a miniature waterfall. "Buckstar, I-" his voice caught in his throat, rendering him unable to finish speaking.

As his nose rested against Buckstars, his sobs became louder and more uncontrollable, his large form folding into itself. The strength that flowed through him as he gained his final life was mostly ignored by the leader, his body shaking uncontrollably as sobs racked through his body.

"I-Im... Dont g-go, Please do-dont go! I need you - the clan needs you! I cant do this without you! Please, Im begging you! Dont leave me here! You can come back, I've seen it happen before! Just....please - dont go" those words seemed to rush out of him at impossible speeds, his cries filling the area around him. The area that once felt so warm, so familiar, was now cold beyond belief.

Eveningstar could hardly see out of his eyes, tears blocking his vision. He stumbled after Buckstar, desperately calling out to him. But it was no use. He knew that he was gone forever. He wasnt coming back. The thought weighed down on him like a boulder, crushing his hopes.

He was alone. Buckstar was gone. And there was nothing he could do about it.

[Rani]

Snakeheart had no clue why he was even going to this meeting, the gathering had been a mess and the riverclan tom really didnt like anyone in the group but Ebonyfang and Peachfrost, even Bouncepaw who he moderately knew was almost a stranger. So why was he here in this horrible cave he hated waiting for cats to gather and revere non existent star cats like idiots... Oh yeah and with new medicine cats there'd be that stupid ritual too, ugh. He didnt need to be here. It had to be Peachfrost honestly, he had to be here to see if Peachfrost wanted to be taught any moor of the information he just didnt have time to teach before. Also maybe he was here to take a minor break from his mess of a clan while he had an excuse.... He had to find the silver lining of this inevitable mess somehow. One such lining was that it was actually peaceful here, sitting under the shining stone as he batted around a leaf in the night air waiting alone for others to arrive though that defiantly wouldnt last.

Exis Panda1440 Angelique Fletcher Rockfall

[Exis]

Sunhowl arrived with his head sunk low to the ground and his tail almost dragging on the floor. He’d been thinking that on the way back he should grab some herbs but only then.
He needed to go here and make friends he supposed but he didn’t really want to. Maybe Iciclepaw would have better luck. She was of course better at socializing. Or maybe they were both just antisocial in their own ways.

Either way, when he arrived to see only Snakeheart he didn’t even blink. He simply nodded, no need to live in the past. “Snakeheart.” He growled, his normal voice. He wasn’t caring at this moment.

Panda1440 Angelique Fletcher Rockfall Rani

[Poprock]

Nerves pricked at the Windclan medicine cat's pelt as she neared the Starcave. What am I supposed to do? I've never really spoken to Starclan cats... except for that one time... Was there a specific greeting? Certain customs she never learned? She would not embarrass herself in front of the other clans. Especially not Shadowclan. Those little rats could fake kindness all they wanted, she wasn't going to fall for it. Not to mention Thunderclan. Snakeheart clearly didn't like them, and she had a lukewarm first impression of them at best...

She hadn't even noticed she had arrived until a cool night wind ruffled her fur. It calmed her nerves, the wind a sweet reminder of home. It seemed Snakeheart and Sunhowl had beaten her here, something she noticed as she curiously took in the Starcave. Huh, not how she imagined the place looking.

She gave the smallest of nods towards Sunhowl before turning towards the Riverclan cat. She wouldn't call him a friend per say but... she definitely liked him the best by far. He was kind to her, so she would be on her best behavior around him.

"Hey Snakeheart. I've got something interesting to tell ya." She meowed.
---
Panda1440 Angelique Fletcher Exis Rani

[Fletcher]

[ Panda1440 Angelique Rockfall Exis Rani ]

Bouncepaw

Bouncepaw stalked to the Starcave alone. He didn't like Badgerscar, he didn't trust him. He'd bonded with Ebonyfang and would prefer to be alone rather than some haughty newly promoted jerk.

At least he was receiving extra training in Starclan.

Bouncepaw saw the cats gathering around the mouth of the cave, he had a new air about him, he looked touchy- flighty and apprehensive with anger instead of anxiety.

He regarded Snakeheart with the flick of his tail as he made his way into the cave. The breeze carried his scent with it.

Lavender, rot, sap, blood, dust.

"S-she demoted Ebonyfang," was all he said. His tail lashed on the ground as he sat, facing the wall.

It wasn't fair.

[Madelaine]

Badgerscar followed right behind Bouncepaw. He had never been here before, so he had trusted the apprentice to get him there. The tom was quite excited, but didn't show it. If they were use to a mysterious medicine cat well Shadowclan had a new one. A much stronger one at that.

He did hear Bouncepaw's comment. "He deserved it for being too soft. Dawnstar needs a stronger medicine cat like me.", he growled. The last time he checked he was the full medicine cat not Bouncepaw. Sure he had stolen it from him, but he didn't exactly care.

"I'm the new Shadowclan medicine cat and you better get used to it.", he meowed. Badgerscar wasn't just talking to Bouncepaw. He was talking to everyone here.

// Fletcher; Rani; Panda1440; Exis; Rockfall; \\

[Fletcher]

[ Angelique; Rani; Panda1440; Exis; Rockfall; ]

Bouncepaw

Bouncepaw bit his tongue, but couldn't suppress a soft growl that had been clawing in his throat. He did not turn, he did not look, he barely acknowledged his new "mentor" who was, most likely, going to boss him around and take all the credit for his work.

Strong is not synonymous with skilled. Strong is not synonymous with useful.

This guy was a proudy jackass, hopefully the others would knock his confidence down a few pegs.

He shook off the bad feelings and approached the others, sitting a few tail lengths away from Snakeheart, he wanted sympathy, but he wouldn't show it.

[Rani]

And so the cats started pouring in.

Sunhowls greeting earned nothing from Snakeheart but a dismissive ear flick as the tom ignored the thunderclan cat completely. The medicine cat had said everything he wished to say to his thunderclan counterpart and had nothing more to add, the other tom meant nothing more than dirt to him at this point. No he'd ignore the tabby, his game of keep the leaf off the ground was more important to him.

Peachfrost on the other hand was not.
Despite the riverclan toms face being more cold and neutral than it usually had been during his trip to windclan (thunderclans fault) his tone was light as he swiped down the feather and replied "Oh? And here I thought I was going to be the one to interest tonight, I've found a herb that might help with kitting and I cant believe it slipped my mind before, I was going to ask if you wanted to step aside with me to talk about it or about just about how these types of meetings work. Ebonyfang is senior medicine cat and takes care of the rituals because of that and while I dont have issues with him I get why that may be uncomfortable for you completely honestly. Want to step aside and talk before the others arrive?" Not that they had time for that really or for Peachfrost to answer before the shadowclan cats arrived. Still he meant every word even if his attention was robbed by the new disaster, the subject would be returned to eventually.

Though Snakeheart didnt get a reply out before Badgerscars arrival his ears went flat and expression bitter at Bouncepaws announcement. He'd grown to like Ebonyfang despite everything over the numerous meetings and had reached what he felt was a sort of quiet respect and understanding with the tom, while he expected the medicine cat to be in trouble with the leader in some way after the gathering this was fully unpleasant. Plus the situation stank of ill decisions made of favouristim, something Snakeheart personally disliked. This cat obviously didnt have the demeanour a medicine cat needed nor the training and yet Bouncepaw (still not as young as Snakeheart had been when he had to take full mantel) who had that was passed over and he could guess why. This wouldnt end well and the riverclan tom despite not really caring too much in the long run resolved right then and there to make more of an effort with the shadowclan apprentice and screw making an attempt to help the obviously egotistical and power hungry idiot. Just screw him.

"So it seems you are.... Whatever your name is. That certainly seems like a decision on Dawnstars part Im sure you'll do things in your new role." The toms voice was full of his usual snark but to those who knew him (so only Bouncepaw and Peachfrost kinda) could tell it was not firey enough to be genuine emotion, this wasnt usual sass this was proper subtle cutting.
"I suppose with Ebonyfang gone Im the senior and head medicine cat now. In charge of ceremonies of introducing new additions to our ranks to starclan and overseeing the naming of new medicine cats." Not that that last one had happened with Ebonyfang for him no Snakehearts naming was rather odd. Generally it'd occur with the full medicine cat naming their apprentice (he'd done that enough Coldamber had been more his mentor than Sparrowskip) with at least the senior medicine cat bearing witness he knew but things rarely worked out that way.

"Interesting I suppose. Tell me then Baderscar, I know why Peachfrost is deserving of the role and should be introduced to starclan and I dont care about the thunderclan cats, but why should you be medicine cat rightfully brought before starclan for the role and included in our numbers. I dont care of course but if Im to have this additional responsibility I must ask."
No he didnt he was being a jerk and poking and only Bouncepaw would know. Ha. He was gonna offer to do the ceremony for Peachfrost anyway even if he didnt care or believe in starclan the tom was steadily learning it was nicer for those he cared about to just bite his tongue and pretend but now he had something to torment the shadowclan jerk and the thunderclan fools with. Snakeheart was mean enough to use that.
Angelique; Fletcher; Panda1440; Exis; Rockfall;

[Panda1440]

Iciclepaw had followed behind her mentor all the way- she somewhat remembered the path from Eveningstar's ceremony,,, though it seemed different now. It wasn't of course, but the worry regarding the meeting was present much to her disappointment. But the young she-cat had gotten so anxious that she decided to wait at the entrance for just a little bit..

Eventually walking in now, she looked around at the medicine cats. Peachfrost, Snakeheart, Bouncepaw and..., oka- apparently some tom named Badgerscar was the new ShadowClan one. And he- definitely seemed ferocious, not to mention overall rude. Dawnstar demoted Ebonyfang?!? Why,,,- She soon made the connection that showing signs of weakness must not be the Shadowclan leader's favorite thing. Stars.. .

"Sorry to divert from the topic, but I do have a quick question regarding eye infections if anyone can help-" 'Quick' wasn't exactly the preferred term Iciclepaw would have used, but it since she didn't want to sound too desperate for info it would need to do. Mushroomkit's infection seemed to be getting better, but it was still crusted plus somewhat smelly.

[ Rani Exis Fletcher Rockfall Angelique]

[Poprock]

She smiled at Snakeheart, eyes sparkling with appreciation. What an absolute sweetheart! He was willing to split from the others and teach her even more because he knew of her hatred for Shadowclan? Not only was he considerate, but he also seemed to have discovered the special effect of borage and wanted to share. The exact news she had been excited to tell him! Alright, the young tom was officially on her good side. She felt the urge to give the smaller cat her signature lick of appreciation to the head, but she knew his fur would fluff up in annoyance if she did. She nodded in response, wanting to give a verbal confirmation as well but was interrupted by... who was that?

She had only seen Ebonyfang once in her life, barely giving the Shadowclan anymore than a sideways glare, but she suddenly found herself missing him. Which was saying something. Badgerscar made quite the first impression. Where Ebonyfang appeared quiet and respectful, Badgerscar was aggressive and arrogant. She fought to keep her fur flat as he spoke, his hidden meaning not lost on her. She still stood to her full height, hoping to intimidate the rat at least a little.
Not even his own apprentice seems to like him. She noted with a disgusted huff. She really couldn't blame Bouncepaw for his visible anger. She almost felt... pity? Whatever. Shadowclan could tear themselves apart from the inside for all she cared.

Snakeheart's snark made her want to laugh smugly in Badgerbutt's face. He's got a point! She licked lazily at her fluffed up chest fur in an effort to conceal her smirk. Her ears flicked towards the Thunderclan she-cat as she questioned the group. If she knew anything she would maybe pipe up. For now, she stayed silent.

Angelique Fletcher Panda1440 Exis Rani

[Exis]

Sunhowl turned and looked at Baderscar. Interesting. He seemed like an angry enough fellow. “I’m Sunhowl. The Thunderclan medicine cat. Congrats.” he mewed.

There was something just so off about all of them. Every single one of the medicine cats, besides Iciclepaw, have him the strangest feeling. Like they were wrong. He brushed it aside but it seemed he’d already entered his shell and would not be coming out.


Angelique Fletcher Panda1440 Rockfall Rani

[Madelaine]

{-} Badgerscar {-}

For Badgerscar patience was not there. He didn't have to answer anyone's questions Now let's just get this thing over with. The tom locked his angry-looking eyes at his apprentice. Boy, this cat annoyed him just a tiny bit, but he just needed to get used to having a younger cat around, especially with his kit half-brother Waspkit. Plus he needed to hang out with Bouncepaw to get used to him. They needed to work together not target one another. He'd have to learn to be nice to others without showing any weakness.

"I have the right to avoid any questions I deem fit. We'll see if starclan approves of me before you guys make any assumptions. In other words, let's just get this thing over with, so I can get going. We don't got all night.", he growled. He just wanted to go back and get some sleep to go looking for the few herbs Ebonyang had told him about when he was an apprentice.

Badgerscar brushed past everyone and just entered. He didn't need other clans medicine cats thinking they own the right to ask him questions. He was done talking with these stupid cats. No wonder why the other clans were weak. he couldn't stand it. Hopefully, they wouldn't make him go soft like they most likely had done to the former medicine cat. Ebonyfang had been a whole lot nicer, but that just wasn't Badgerscar at all.

// Rani; Fletcher; Exis; Panda1440; Rockfall; \\

[Rani]

The overgrown child didnt get the answer he wanted so he stormed off in a tantrum. Pathetic. He didnt even really try and defend himself too only justifying his new position with a 'I dont have to explain myself' which as far as defences went was kinda weak. Seriously there was numerous reasons he could give that even Snakeheart without the full knowledge of what had occurred could think of and that was all he came up with. The tom idly, sneer firmly in place, watched the medicine cat wannabe (seriously the shadowclan tom was obviously more warrior in nature) storm into the cave idly leaning down and whispering a "Im sorry you were robbed in this change and while our clans are not on good terms godspeed on coping with the transition, if you need a voice of reason try and find me." to Bouncepaw before refocusing on the others who's conversation was interrupted by shadowclans latest move.

"Well this new addition seems like a.... personality. What is even his name? He never even introduced himself. Hmm well whatever he can act as he likes unless has anyone else they wish to go over" He was completely ignoring Iciclepaw and her question at this point (eye infections werent so bad he could live with any potential guilt about not helping) but after their interaction at the gathering that was probably a good thing. "we should head in and get the ceremony and dreaming on with. Conversations can resume after thats taken care of." Not that he'd dream personally, unless someone else stayed up Snakeheart would take the opportunity to fleece this not often used area for all its herbs, but that was just him. The others deserved the chance to have a prober ceremony for the start of their own duty even if he didnt believe, just like Lionstorm had deserved a proper starclan honouring burial. Granted by others he did not mean Badgerscar, that guy has wilfully tossed that chance and Sunhowl earned nothing but his ambivalence so the thunderclan tom was only included as a simple curtesy to a coworker and a wish to not get into any more interactions then necessary. Peachfrost however? He'd gladly do this for her, and Iciclepaw secretly reminded Snakeheart of himself if he lacked a spine so she got included out of pity. Still once that got finished the shadowclan problem and the thunderclan annoyances could leave and he could talk to Peachfrost more.

Speaking of Peachfrost he couldnt believe he forgot to teach her burnet, that herb was a godsend! It could bolster strength and he'd used it twice so far to help weak queens who in other cases mightve died during kitting or simply give the mollies a burst of strength in a difficult time, it was useful and he needed to teach it to Peachfrost as fast as possible lest a queen die in a rough situation. He'd catch her after the meeting before they both went home and hear about whatever she wished to tell him. At that point the extra use or borage would be a pleasant surprise.

So with things (assumably) wrapped up out here he turned and padded into the cave with a "Lets get started." letting the shining moonlight reflected off of the shining stone dapple over his face and pelt moving to stand before the stone and turning to face the three medicine cats that werent Badgerscar. The cast of light always cast a sense of awe and seriousness over any interactions in the cave even to a non believer and Snakehearts eyes were as piercing as his voice steady "Peachfrost, Sunhowl and Iciclepaw, is it your wish to enter the mysteries of Starclan as a medicine cat?"

Angelique; Fletcher; Panda1440; Exis; Rockfall;
(Though we never got through the med cat introduction ceremony with ebony in rp Im running this as if we did and so snakeheart knows the words and how this goes because otherwise a whole lotta rps the med cats did ages ago makes no sense just fyi)

[Panda1440]

The young she-cat had flinched and backed up a little as Badgerscar just strolled into the Starcave. She already didn't like the brat- was somewhat curious as to the exact matters of the former medicine cat's demotion,,, was it really out of softness? If so- ShadowClan certainly didn't seem to be in a stable position at all.

Poor Bouncepaw... No one had answered her question, unfortunately, but that was that. Iciclepaw would just have to improvise with the treatment. Stepping a paw forth in the moonlight-filled cave, a calmness swept of her body. Being in the reach of the gorgeous crystal- it just felt- right.

"Yes- I do-" Let's just hope it's not another mouse-brained mistake.

[ Rani Exis Fletcher Rockfall Angelique]

[Exis]

Sunhowl stepped forward. “Yes.” He mewed. He didn’t feel any sort of anything from this. None of it really mattered.

(Sorry it’s short)

[ Rani Panda1440 Fletcher Rockfall Angelique]
__________________

[Madelaine]

{~} Badgerscar {~}

The new Shadowclan medicine cat didn't care if he added him in this stupid ritual anyway, so he went to the sidelines and sat down. He hated each and every one of these healer cats. It was a shame to be one of these guys, but he trusted Dawnstar over this decision. His normal angry-looking face focused more on a few scars on one of his paws. Huh, these must be new.

No wonder why Dawnstar gave him the full name she did. It was better than being named after his missing patches of fur.

[Poprock]

Angelique; Fletcher; Panda1440; Exis; Rani

Stay cool. Stay cool. Stay. Cool. She repeated mentally. This Badgerscar guy could really use a good bop to the head. Maybe even a nice scratch or two. She had spent moons perfecting her battling techniques. It would be a shame if they went to waste right? Alas... she was about to step paw in basically the holiest place in all of the clans so maybe it wouldn't be such a good idea. That and it might accidentally start Shadowclan vs Windclan part 2 so... another day.

She felt a bit bad for the two apprentices here. Bouncepaw for obvious reasons. Starclan look the other way if he ever decides to off his terrible mentor. He would be doing us all a favor. And for Iciclepaw... she did genuinely want to help the kid out. Maybe because she was easily the kindest here, so pure and stupid. Hopefully she found the answer to her question soon. Maybe one of the Starclan cats would help her out? Right now, they had Snakeheart's ceremony to do.

Nodding at the Riverclan tom. "I do."

[Rani]

So they resigned themselves or dedicated themselves to this properly with a word. Induction to a rank, any other rank would be a think of celebration, of joy but for this horrid fate of a duty. Well it felt more like damnation. They chose this though, for better or worse, let that fall upon their head as fate may dictate. With war looming and hate in Snakehearts chest even as he pitied it wouldnt likely be a kind fate. That was later this was now. "Cats of Starclan, I present you with these medicine cats, both apprentices, teachers and full ranks in addition. They have chosen the path of a medicine cat. Grant them your wisdom and insight so they may understand your ways and heal their clan in accordance of your will." Let's hope if starclan did exist they'd have some pity on the poor cats.

"Feel free to approach and lay infront of the stone now, sleeping while touching your nose to it should be enough..." Enough for what he didnt specify, he'd tried it a few times and nothing happened if these cats had the same occur to them he didnt want to give the impression they were doing something wrong personally, like he'd felt once. If they did 'see starclan' though good for them he guessed. Snakeheart himself just sat back watching over the entire proceedings and, from everyone elses perspective, waiting to go dream last thinking about the best herb to go hunting for near the starcave while the others napped.

Angelique; Fletcher; Panda1440; Exis; Rockfall

[Madelaine]

{~} Badgerscar {~}

Badgerscar didn't really want to press his nose to the stupid thing. He'd rather sit here. Starclan might not like him anyway and he didn't really care. Then he began to think of what Dawnstar would do if he didn't have some connection with stupid dead cats. He didn't want to disappoint her. No that was not an option.

The tom stood up and padded over to the other side away from the others. He touched his nose to it and it felt weird. Suddenly he grew sleepy and soon he went to dreamland.

[Panda1440]

Iciclepaw watched the reddish brown tom recite the words, hoping she sincerely choose the right path. She hadn't really frozen anything lately, or at least nothing she herself noticed. Then again though, the apprentice had seen all the Stary cats give their lives to her leader. It was still pretty blurry in her memory- and she was almost completely sure she wasn't supposed to talk about it either. Seemed too- sacred,,, special,,- important. But now the she-cat's time came to speak to StarClan again. The meeting with her Dad left tears in her eyes (happy ones),,, plus Cricketpaw had also been kind. Is all of StarClan that nice?! ... Hopefully. With that last thought, Iciclepaw stepped forward- laid down, and gently touched her nose to the shiny rock.

[ ... StarClan continuation link ... (http://warriorcatsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1017047#post1017047)]

[Exis]

Sunhowl padded forward to dream. He’d hoped to see Cricketpaw again, maybe she could teach him something? But instead... nothing. He dreamt of nothing. Nothing

[Rani]

And so everyone went to sleep dreaming their fake little dreams of starcats whos opinions seems to control their every action. And so Snakeheart was left alone and awake. Whatever he'd planned for this.

Padding away from the group the tom be-lined it to the darker untouched corners of the starcave grinning to himself as the cobwebs in the area were thick and clean and perfectly free for the taking. Haha sucks to suck and not take advantage of what was here and free. Grabbing a stick from outside the cave the riverclan tom stuck it in the webs twisting it around quickly and efficiently bundling the cobwebs into little balls. Snakeheart managed to get through four of these before the pickings became sparse and he decided that was enough for today carrying his sticks to the entrance and stashing them away hidden behind a rock to collect when it was time to go home. They were his webs after all and he be damned before he let any of the thunderclan cats or that egotistical Badgerscar get them or start asking questions about where they came from. After all he was totally dreaming with them right now, he'd just have the luck to wake up first.

Speaking of that Snakeheart padded back over to the shiny stone scuffing up the area to look like he'd been laying there and just kinda.... sat for awhile, considering life. Eventually though he saw one of the other medicine cats start to rouse and so starved for entertainment he even willingly initiated conversation with the waking cat. Desperate times and all.
"Hello how'd the dreaming go? I know it can be disorientating at times." He didnt "Personally mine were dull tonight though, not worth mentioning thats probably why I woke so fast." Lie lie lies whatever "Now just to wait for the others to wake and wrap up I suppose."

Angelique; Fletcher; Panda1440; Exis; Rockfall

[Poprock]

Panda1440
---

Her paws mindlessly kicked at the pebbles as she walked, watching as they skidded across the dirt path. In the darkness of the night, it was easy to lose them to the shadows as she continued on her way. She needed Starclan, now more than ever. A shameful desperation for guidance clung to her pelt like a stubborn flea. Please, please guide me through this turmoil.

Every instinct told her to fight. To gather Windclan's most elite warrior's and end this Shadowclan problem once and for all. Avenge her fallen clanmates. If Twilightstar wasn't going to do it...

No. This wasn't how a medicine cat should be thinking. I should be focused on healing. On what herbs I should be looking for. Experimenting with the ones I already have. Maybe then she could prevent another Rosebriar. Another Emberlight. Another Beeblaze. Another Twilightstar.

Her ears perked at a noise from behind. Were those... pawsteps? They were too heavy to be prey. Yet they weren't heavy enough to be a full grown cat. Am I being followed? Alarm shot through her, claws unsheathing and hackles raising. "Who's there?" She hissed out.

[Panda1440]

The rather small she-cat knew it was time now, although her thoughts where quite conflicting about it. Sunhowl,, what if he came back !? its already been so long but .. - there's still hope- right?!! ,.. i'm still not ready - more time,, much more time.. Yet here she was, heading forth to the Starcave. She didn't bother asking Snakeheart to do the ceremony.. no way would he agree. Not to mention she wouldn't even get as far as the border most certainty.

The wind blowing towards her now, she smelled the scent of .. WindClan - maybe it's- Iciclepaw didn't get the change to finish her thought when the familiar voice struck her. "Peachfrost?? Is- is that you?" It was still quite hard to see in the black night, even with the small shine of the moon.

"I- it's Iciclepaw,, from ThunderClan -" wait! maybe she can give me my name- should i- should i tell her ?? .. ."Su- Sunhowl,, he went missing .. I uh,, am here for my full - full name." [ Rockfall]

[Poprock]

Panda1440 (Sorry this took so long!)
---
Iciclepaw? The runt from Thunderclan? The molly froze as the smaller she-cat spoke with a voice much more timid than Peachfrost's. It was easy to hear the apprehension in the Thunderclanner's voice. She was easily the youngest medicine cat of all four clans, and definitely one of the smaller ones. (Although, they all looked small from Peachfrost's point of view). The loss of a mentor, no matter how lazy and incompetent he seemed, probably shook Iciclepaw to her core.

An unwelcome tinge of sympathy sizzled deep within the large molly. How scary it must be to be all alone... At least she had Fluffybee, a loyal if not overbearing father she could tell anything to. Someone she could always fall back on if things got rough. The weight on a medicine cat's shoulders was heavy enough with loved ones... it must be soul crushing to bear it alone.

She sheathed her claws as the apprentice drew near, barely visible in the night. This young cat was not a threat. At least... not now. If the Shadowclan medicine cats had been the ones to show up, Peachfrost would not have hesitated to send them to Starclan permanently. Unfortunately, she seemed to have a soft spot for the Thunderclan medicine cat.

"Your full name huh?" She studied the young cat. Was she supposed to present her to Starclan or whatever? No one else was here to do it... Perhaps she could get this over quicker if she just offered to help now. "I guess the task of senior medicine cat falls to me." Luckily she had listened to the Riverclan medicine cat last moon, or she would be completely lost. "I suppose I can help you out, but not a word is uttered to Snakeheart about this. Got it?" Her green eyes narrowed. She didn't need word getting back to her only ally that she helped the enemy. Without another word she padded towards the Starcave.

[Panda1440]

It felt like ages until Peachfrost answered, while in reality must have only been a few heartbeats. The response was a 'yes' thank StarClan, but of course it came with restrictions.. why would i tell Snakeheart anyways- ,, well, oh nevermind. "Th- thank you so much-" she meowed, but the WindClan medicine cat had already ventured into the moonlight cave. The young apprentice (soon to be not,,,) quickly ran to the entrance, then abruptly starting to paw forward slower once she was inside the stone cavity. It was.. astonishing as always. It was.. time. Iciclepaw took a deep, long moment to fully inhale the peacefulness of the moment.

[ Rockfall - aaa np, i'm so sorry this response is so short lol :heartbounce:]

[Poprock]

Panda1440 (Let me know if you want anything changed, and Im so honored to do this for sweet little Icicle <3)
---
The silence of the she-cats as they entered the cave gave Peachfrost a bit to think. The cool air a stark contrast to the blazing green-leaf heat. Her long fluffy fur was not great to have this time of year. She allowed the comfortable and serene atmosphere to calm her nerves. She's relying on you Peachfrost. Starclan is watching. Don't mess this up for the apprentice. Er- the Thunderclan medicine cat. This wasn't about the windclan molly after all. Not anymore. This was meant to be one of the biggest days in a cats life, she wouldn't ruin it with her sour mood.

Oh shoot. She hadn't even thought of a name yet! Her eyes widened with alarm as she whipped around to look at Iciclepaw. Maybe a physical attribute? Icicletail? Iciclefur? No. Those don't seem to fit. Perhaps something based off her personality? Iciclewhisker? Icicleheart? Still no.

The name Iciclefrost popped into her head. Oh thats great! Why do I like that suffix so much? A pause. Oh ya...

This was getting ridiculous. Why was finding the perfect name for this runt so difficult? She turned to look at the other cat with an exasperated sigh. "Kid... look. I-" How do you tell someone you don't have a good name? How do you tell a medicine cat? Oof this was going to be embarassing.
WAIT! It hit her like a smack to the face. What was the one thing she knew for sure about Iciclepaw? What had Iciclepaw proven to excel in, despite everything going on around her?

"-have the perfect idea. You ready?" Gone was the cloud of confusion and frustration. Now Peachfrost was clearminded and dare she say a bit excited. Sitting tall, she looked up and shut her eyes. "Cats of Starclan, I present you the Icicleripple. Named for her ability to keep moving foward though change and hardship as well as her keen awareness of cause and effect. She has chosen the path of a medicine cat. Please grant her your wisdom and insight so she may understand your ways and continue to heal her clan in accordance of your will."

She looked back at Icicleripple with a small smile, tail twitching with pride. She will do wonderful things for her clan. I can tell. With that she layed down on the cool earth, paws tucked beneath her large body and touched her nose to the stone.

[Panda1440]

The uneasy look on the large she-cat's sweet face was honestly scaring Iciclepaw. Did.. did i do something wrong! wh- what if she's taking back her decision to help me .. But then, it seemed Peachfrost regained confidence in her voice,,,.

Icicleripple. that seemed.. so perfect. It suits me; ,, yet- What if.. no. now wasn't the time to think about that. the WindClan medicine cat had already begun sleeping. must be urgent- i really hope everything's alright on the moor. The past gathering was skipped, so she could only assume things now.

Touching her nose to the shining crystal, the newest ThunderClan medicine cat feel into her first real nightmare.. .

[continuation thread linked here] [ Rockfall]

[Rani]

Even before Snakeheart left the safety and quiet of the camp he knew this meeting was going to be a rough one. The half moon heralding the arrival of the medicine cat meeting seemed more sinister then beautiful tonight, the silver light painting the world in a still eerie and strange cast. It changed the entire feel of the land making it dreamlike which was ironic considering how important medicine cats considered dreams and that they'd be dreaming tonight. Perhaps a more starclan believing medicine cat would view this as beautiful where Snakeheart found it nightmarish, the tom mused as he reached the edge of riverclan territory. The light reflecting off of the river was worse, it was blinding in its too bright intensity and the riverclan tom was forced to swim across eyes shut tight to avoid the painful glare.


He hoped that maybe this moonlight would keep thunderclan home. He considered using the excuse of the difficulty with the river to not go. But Snakeheart was no coward and he came prepared with words as poisonous as his back claws. He wasnt weak as he once was and this time the tom was ready for whatever hostility the thunderclan medicine cat came at him this time. There would be no new scars on his pelt like the one that marred his back and if necessary he'd prove there was no action he'd ask of his clan he'd not happily do himself if needed.


Such drastic measures shouldnt be needed though, Snakeheart had a plan to prevent issues before they arose and the ability to lie through his pointed teeth without detection. So arriving outside the starcave he confidently sat giving off the air that this was just a normal boring meeting and waited.


Fletcher Panda1440 Rockfall (dear lord its only us this is insane)

[Panda1440]

Icicleripple had been very reluctant to leave her clanmates, even for a single night. She was tired,, yet .. the moonlight was so bright. . who knew if it was a call from StarClan or just a natural thing. Either way,, it drew her in. Reminded the young medicine cat of the gorgeous crystal in the middle of the stone enclosure. So here she was, making her way through to dark forest.

Another few steps.. ti- tired.. Until now, the she-cat had tried her hardest to keep the worries at bay. But the breaking point was soon, unfortunately for her.

The tom's orange and brown silky fur seemed to shine under the moonlight from her own view point,. He seemed... relaxed. Like nothing had happened. did he ,, agree to- putting . the deathberries- they are a herb.. after all- ? She was almost certain of the positive answer.

"Sn- Snake..heart. I- are any.. of the others here yet?.." [ Rani @/Rockfall @/Fletcher]

[Rani]

Somehow the first arrival wasnt a surprise despite the high possibility of her skipping due to the undoubtedly monumental amount of work she had at home. Snakeheart wasnt sure if he was pleased or upset by this. Head turning to face the approaching molly calmly the riverclan tom simply watched her approach face clean and blank of all emotion until she finally got the spine to speak to him. Cowardly scrap, despite her clan and being if she bucked up a bit maybe he'd even respect her a bit for their similar circumstances and history.

Letting out an even hum in agreement for now he ignored the question to raise one eyebrow at Icicleripple.
"I hope you encountered no trouble getting her tonight? Its a long trek and you look dead on your paws, though I suppose if your workload right now is anything like mine that's to be expected. Maybe we should pick up some burnet before we head back so the two of us dont end up just passing out somewhere in the territory on the way hmm?"
The tone was light and while emotionally void friendlier and more polite then Snakeheart had ever acted towards the molly. It had to be disturbing. It was intentional. Let the world see the riverclan medicine cat and assume him pacified and his rage cooled by the recent fight, let them assume through his actions that riverclan was (though this was in part true) sated and would return to their previous neutrality, and let them assume the 'lazy' clan was now sheathing their claws and letting them grow dull. The deliberate crack in Snakehearts cover he was showing Icicleripple was a clear subtle and silent warning that that was not the case and though on surface they were relaxing underneath the viper had simply coiled back up yet was always ready to strike from their spot. If he said this all outright it could spark an argument and the tom didnt intend to give the mouse hearted medicine cat an inch to potentially push back so it was silent but clear, should she engage she'd be the 'aggressor'.

He wondered if she picked up his allusion to all the riverclan cats that'd been hurt in the raid. He wondered if she'd felt regret for her clan pushing riverclan too far with claws when treating the cats poisoned by claws created from desperate protection and grieving revenge both. He wondered if she even really knew, if she could connect the dots. It didnt matter though his plan would be effective in either situation and his claws though dipped in poison were hidden like how a snakes fangs folded completely into its mouth. Snakeheart was sitting on his back paws claws sheathed and had deliberately walked through a pungent flower patch on his way here, not risking a single chance of her even potentially using his weapon against him.

And he would not allow the two medicine cats he liked, the ones he viewed as allies and the ones whos clans he wished to remain friendly with (fat change will birdbrain baiting Dawnstar though, ugh) to see his insincerity and well hidden threats. Snakeheart had lied to his clan basically all his life that things were fine, that he wasnt afraid, that he could fix things, that everything was ok, this was nothing in comparison and to Peachfrost and Bouncepaw this cover would be flawless and unbreakable.

"Settle down Im sure they'll arrive soon. The night is calm besides and will hopefully stay that way. No need to stutter and shake like some predator is going to jump out from nowhere...."

@Panda1440 (http://warriorcatsonline.com/forums/member.php?u=13257) @/Fletcher @/Rockfall

[Fletcher]

Rani Panda1440 @/Rockfall

Bouncepaw took his time, lurking along the path to the Starcave; every breath he took away from Shadowclan camp revitalized him. His leg was sore, a badger had slashed at his flank and left a deep wound; it had begun to scab over, just a bit. He was languid, eyes lidded, frame lithe, and steps meticulous.

He made not a single noise until he could see the color in Snakeheart's eyes; to which he gazed to in greeting. He nodded his head, stepping forwards, and noting Icicleripple; quite a name.

He had been quite busy, he smelled of lavender and mint, strongly.

[Poprock]

Rani Panda1440 Fletcher
Peachfrost stumbled as she raced towards the Starcave, green eyes darting up towards the moon every few moments. Mousedung! She cursed, nearly landing face first in the dirt as her paw caught on a particularly large pebble.

Of course she had to lose track of time. Got so lost in keeping up with where each herb had to be placed that she hadn't realized she was due to leave long ago. Her paws still held traces of dandelion, the sticky yellow residue picking up pieces of dirt as she raced to catch up with the others.

Finally, finally, she arrived. Out of breath and very disheveled, but present. She gave a quick nod to Icicleripple and a mere flick of the ear to Bouncepaw, still trying to catch her breath. After a moment, she turned to Snakeheart. "Sorry I'm late. I hope things are going well for you." She smiled. He seemed to be in a better mood than last time, his composure much more put together.

[Rani]

So the others arrived as they inevitably would Bouncepaw looking well but for that wound along his flank that seemed to be healing well enough to not raise concern even if it did curiosity. Still if he wished to speak he would to explain himself or ask herb questions Snakeheart wasnt one to push for conversation all that much and he found Bouncepaw strange besides. Nice certainly and more the tolerable but just plain strange, suppose you'd have to be to be a decent cat in shadowclan of all clans. Snakeheart nodded in return his tail giving a pleased flick at the other toms arrival before sitting back to wait for the last member of their group.


Who arrived eventually obviously a little frazzled. It was faintly amusing even as the riverclan tom could emphasize, there never seemed to be enough time in the day for all their duties and it was easy to get disheveled. Even Snakeheart who was generally very picky about his hygiene slipped in the wake of whatever this moons chaos was and he had dips in the river to help him where the other clans did not. He let out a small hum at Peachfrost including his head and waving his tail waving off her apologies.
"It's no issue really Im sure we all know how it can be sometimes take your time and relax. As for how things are going..... Well I wont lie things have been rough and stressful for a time and Im sure Icicleripple can relate but in the wake of that... mess the moon comes out from its cloudy cover and shines again. Finally after far too long in my opinion Riverclan is pulling back from the constant fighting with thunderclan and unless we're poked there will be peace along that border again. It's.... unfortunate that things had to go so far on both sides and that it took taking firefly cove and a fight for things to settle but Im simply happy that the worst is over now."
He let out a small huff of a laugh eyes crinkling shut in a short of grin even as his muzzle remained neutral. He may be letting his more charming and open side out here to explain but a full smile would be too much given it was him. This level was believable though.


"Im sure things will still be a tad tense but unless thunderclan reignites the conflict Kestrelstar has called for a cessation of hostilities so its over. I suppose that simple fact is why Im in lighter spirits, constantly have so many injured clanmates from basically every patrol would fray anyones temper. Still the same sharp tongued Snakeheart of course but there's been remarks Im more relaxed."
The tom shrugged and his tail flicked again pleasantly. He was defiantly smoothing over a lot of the brutal bloody events on both sides but that was easily explained away if questions by him 'trying to keep the peace with Icicleripple in this meeting' it had the benefit that if she called him on it he could flip the script but shouldnt be necessary he hoped. Snakeheart had thrown her a bone after all, the message that if she kept her cats in line from here on out and let the final hands lay where the card fell there'd be peace. After the hell she'd had to face with the 'special wounds' the tom was sure that was wanted.


None of this would ever show on his face of course, not one cat here but Icicleripple knew his snapping was more then bark and his demeanor tone and even air was relaxed and relieved.



@Fletcher (http://warriorcatsonline.com/forums/member.php?u=13182) @Panda1440 (http://warriorcatsonline.com/forums/member.php?u=13257) @Rockfall (http://warriorcatsonline.com/forums/member.php?u=13509)

[Panda1440]

Pick some burnet,, that sounded good.. waiT - why am I ev- even considering that!! In her mind, RiverClan was responsible for the deaths of those cats who where affected from the deathberry poison. When Bouncepaw arrived, the she-cat gave a quick node before going back to pawing around at the dirt ground. She didn't like ShadowClan really.. . but- he seemed quite nice.

okay.. . what in the stars was this nice game Snakeheart was playing?!! he's .. , usually so mean,, rude. oh. Now she connected a few dots, as well as some suspicions confirmed. yet.

if .., I make an argument ag- against him.. . the images of cats dying, the screams of pain from the battle. Icicleripple prayed to StarClan with all her might that they wouldn't allow that. not again. i still can't just shout it out.. .. "w- well. I- do have to say it's been rather .., nerveracking.. considering a few- th- things,," ask abo- about,,.. darn. She was getting quite tense now, body clearly shaking once again. she couldn't have a stupid breakdown in front of the other medicine cats. i'd .. be considered even weaker than I already am-

breath in.. breath out. "I do have a few herbal questions. .. reg..arding poisons. I know yarrow can be used to make cats throw up, but .. can it also be used to extract poisons from wounds?." She already happened to know the answer, - something else was in her mind for these inquiries.

[ Rani Fletcher Rockfall]

[Fletcher]

Rani Panda1440 Rockfall

Bouncepaw eyed the two she-cats warily, their curtness was...hurtful. He would kill Dawnstar if he could, but eight lives without her retaliating...it would be tough. He sighed silently, only the most adept would be able to notice the shift in his mood. His movements remained smooth, slow, languid. He cared not for other's opinions of him, but had they really been paying that little attention?

It made him a bit...sour, why should he try to be nice if everyone was going to treat him like threat anyways?

He was quite curious about the ongoing conversations, interested in the discussion of poison. There had been whispers here and there...nothing more.

[Panda1440]

It was night, and with any luck hopefully no cats would see her nor Aspenstrike. Soon to be Aspenstar.. .

The long furred she-cat pawed through the familiar route to the Starcave. It almost was a full moon, only a day or so until the Gathering. The thought frightend her even to be completely honest. Icicleripple was very well aware that the clan had missed the past one (or was it two)? Then again, she had been so busy with herbal stuff,, hopefully,, the other clans will believe our .. story. Prehaps RiverClan had convinced them all of the worst.

"We're he- here.. ,, " with that, she stepped into the stone enclosure, green eyes staring at her own reflection in the giant crystal. [ poppy.]

[poppy]

It was time. Nothing felt real anymore. Chest pinched tight with anxiety, Aspenstrike padded behind Icicleripple, following the trail up to the Starcave. Her paws slid into the divets made by the paws of ancients, but she was too consumed by perpetual terror. What if StarClan rejected her? Her mind had traveled to the thoughts undoubtedly had by all the soon-to-be leaders, but they had no reason to worry. Not many leaders were made under these circumstances and an even smaller amount actually did good things.

The stars in the sky did nothing to calm her, the full moon just scared her more, because it told of the Gathering, which would take place in a few days and she would be leading ThunderClan there. And RiverClan would be there. Kestrelstar would be there. The last time she had seen Kestrelstar was with him standing in her camp, bloody and furious, surrounded by gore and fur and corpses.... And Aspenstrike wasn't looking forward to seeing him. Not at all.

She was looking forward to exposing him, to yell at him, but actually being so close to him.... she wasn't particularly thrilled about it.

Forcing her breathing to steady, she hurried to catch up with Icicleripple, following her into the cave.
And they were there. The Starcave.
Standing in front of a huge, gorgeous crystal, that was clear and shimmering in the light of the moon.

Curiosity peaked, she stepped forward to stand in front of it. Her face stared back, reflected off the stone, and she grimaced. A hot mess like that was destined to save a Clan?

"Ready?" She croaked, tail-tip quivering.

[ Panda1440 ]

[Panda1440]

"Y- .. yeah. -,, touch your nose to the stone,, I'l- I think I'll be there." Hopefully the new leader was getting used to her hesitation in stressful moments. Even so, Aspenstrike might not take the ' I think ' part as a good sign. She certainly would be scared,,

And.. she was recently in my den,,- the train of though pauses, even though Sunhowl went missing rather awhile ago,, she still longed for her mentor back, with the stability they provided. Calling it her own den was true, but kinda .. . Sad. She hoped they were okay,. Just like that though, the young medicine cat forgot what she was intentionally thinking about. Must have not been valuable.

She glanced back at the she-cat before booping her own rather small nose against the huge crystal. Icicleripple faded into a dream, waiting for Aspen to follow. It was about time to get the clan she loved so darn much back on it's paws.

[ poppy. - lets get this started !! :lovesquee:]

[poppy]

- Panda1440

Icicleripple’s lack of confidence wasn’t new, and expected, and Aspenstrike couldn’t wait to take all the pressure off of the medicine cat… even if that meant transferring it all onto her own shoulders, it meant that the young cat could take a breather for the first time since Eveningstar’s murder. It was time… and she was having doubts, they were raging in her mind like the torrent of water in the river after a storm. Watching Icicleripple lean forward and touch her nose to the stone, Aspenstrike was about to do the same, when concerns flooded her mind. Blinking rapidly, she looked up at the cave ceiling, imagining the stars blanketing the black sky.

”Oh, StarClan. Did you make the right choice?” She breathed, tingles of anxiety coursing through her veins. It was time. No going back now. Taking a deep breath to steady herself, the way she always did in stressful situations, she leaned forward, and pressed her nose against the stone. Her nose felt numb from the cold, and she forced herself not to jerk back.

Darkness enveloped her, and she squeezed her eyes shut. Ready for StarClan to come, for better or worse.


[1. Ambermoon spade
2. Bramblefire @/Hawkice
3. Pebblepool @/:Grimmlin:
4. Timperspark @/finnzel
5. Pinepaw @/Shade.
6. Robinwhisker @/Rockfall
7. Illicit @/Cobra
8. Gorseflower @/Ziera
9. Brokenstar @/BILL.

[ Mention the person on the lives list after you in your post, don't wait for me to reply, I will be replying to them all in one big post at the end! ]

[spade]

Moons had passed since the last time her paws had touched this place. Starry mist swirled around her legs with each step, eyes bright and alert to the scene ahead of her. Dark for now, but soon to be filled with the presence of ThunderClan's new leader.

Ambermoon could only hope that this would finally be the one destined to save her home.

Long forgotten was her name, her son's name, and the pawprints they had left behind in ThunderClan. Whisked away by the breath of new generations, phased out of story times that elders would tell. No one alive today would ever remember her - not that she could blame them. Not much contribution to the current state of affairs had come from her paws, nor her son's who had left shortly after.

Her daughter though... Applepaw. Taken too soon by a cat blinded by his own grief. Ambermoon didn't hate Lionstorm though. She couldn't bring herself to; she knew the pain he had experienced in his final day among the living. The grief of having the cat he loved most ripped from him, the delirium of death that had plagued his waking moments.

Both Clans had trodden the path of Shadows, and for a moment the she-cat halted her pawsteps. Why had she felt the need to return? Far be it for her to participate in these ceremonies since Gyrestar, the last ThunderClan leader that she had found herself respecting outside of Ashstar. Two cats who didn't have to, but allowed her into their camp, their home. Sure, she wasn't ThunderClan by any means, what with full kitty-pet blood running through her. But Ambermoon knew where her loyalties lay. She knew the desires she had for ThunderClan to rise from the ashes of the burned past the leaders prior had left them in.

It didn't take too much longer - after not so many pawsteps, she found herself stepping into the ranks of those gathered to give lives to the new leader. Most of them wouldn't know her; Ambermoon didn't necessarily find that important though. Instead, she simply dipped her head in greeting before continuing along her path, stopping before Aspenstrike.

"Greetings. You do not know me. My name is Ambermoon - I joined ThunderClan quite some time ago, under Ashstar's leadership," she began, nothing but kindness and warmth dancing in the depths of her sparkling gaze. "I've watched silently from the stars, longing to offer advice and insight but not finding the strength to do so. Hopefully with you, ThunderClan can finally heed the wisdom of the stars and divert itself from this dark path."

Ambermoon let her words hand in the air, falling around Aspenstrike like morning fog. "With this life, I give you Acceptance. May you find it in your heart to welcome those who wish for a better life, to serve ThunderClan until their spirit runs with the stars, as mine does." Leaning forward she touched her nose to Aspenstrike's, letting the life flow from her to the new leader.

It was warm, not painful as it would blossom around the soon-to-be leader's heart. Memories of the joy and relief Ambermoon had felt upon being accepted with her son all those moons ago were attached - followed closely by the pride in serving a greater purpose than just living for herself and her son.

As fast as it had been delivered, the moment was over as Ambermoon pulled back. "You will do great things for ThunderClan, Aspenstrike. If only you remember to not let your vision cloud over in favor of personal gain." With that, Ambermoon dipped her head before retreating back into the starry ranks, disappearing among the shrouded mist and out of sight.

// Hawkice

[JackHunt_17]

After Ambermoon gave her life, Bramblefire padded up with a warm smile. "Greetings Aspenstrike. My name is Bramblefire. I died in the begining of Buckstar's leadership, attempting to save my kits from drowning. My attempts failed. My only kin left in Thunderclan was my sister, Littlebird, and her kits. She named one after me, Bramblekit, but Bramblekit sadly passed away. But anyway, this is not about my life, its about yours." Padding up to the new leader, Bramblefire touched noses with her. "I give you the life of love & protection that a mother gives her kits. Use it wisely, and love your whole clan as if they are your kits." Bramblefire mewed. "Remember, Thunderclan is your family." She mewed, before stepping back and allowing the next starry cat to aproach.

( :Grimmlin: )

[marshy]

Pebblepool
___________

Pebblepool wasn't expecting a new leader for ThunderClan. As she heard the news from a few other StarClan she sighed. It seemed she might be late, but she decided to rush as fast as she could anyway. Leaving a blanket of stars in her wake. When she approached the StarClan, it seemed Ambermoon was just stepping off after giving a life. As Bramblefire approached to give her life, Pebblepool tried to read this Aspenstrike as much as she could, they seemed serious.. and little so serious for Pebblepool to like them that much but that's when she decided to give a life. She had a perfect one in mind, while it wouldn't be that useful for hunting or fighting it would certainly strengthen other aspects of the clan.
As Bramblefire walked away, she padded up with a smirk. "Hello.. Aspenstrike was it? Greetings, I'm Pebblepool." She said warmly. "You certainly wouldn't know me as I hail from WindClan and I died long before you were born. Alas, i've been watching you and i've noticed something, well a lack of something actually." She sighed before she continued "Where's your sense of amusement?" Pebblepool chuckled as she said it. "I get being serious and all but i find it good to laugh with another and share that happiness with everyone. Its can be strengthening to others will to have them laugh and be entertained and that's why I've decided to give you this life. I, Pebblepool give you the life of Lightheartedness. May you guide ThunderClan in laughter and fun during all times, hard and good alike." With that, she gave Aspenstrike a wink before padded back to watch the next life be given. This was seriously reminding her of Sootstar and Kestrelstar and she hoped for both of the leaders that they could lead their clans to greatness.

[ finnzel ]

[furrensic]

Shade. //

➸ timberspark

so much was going on! being in the dark forest, you didn't get to see many things, only new cats and..some not so pleasing sights. after pebblepook gave her life, the young tom stepped out of the darkness - a dark mist pooling around his paws as he approached aspenstrike. he was a stick-thin tall tom that, honestly, looked like he was decaying, or had already decayed with how the white of his bones were protruding in some areas. oddly enough, for a dark forest cat anyways, he had a somber look instead of something malicious.

"hello, aspenstrike. you don't know me, but my name's timberspark..i was a skyclanner long ago, then became a riverclanner, when fallenstar was still leader." timberspark started, lips downturned in what seemed like a forever frown, hesitant to continue. "during my time in skyclan when i was an apprentice..there was a war, the dark forest had been training apprentices and made them turn on their own clan - i was one of those apprentices." he admitted, the dark mist rising around him, looking like it'd swallow him whole.

"in that battle, I..killed a queen, blinded by the lies of the dead. I showed her no mercy," the dead tom whispered, "I give you the life of mercy - don't make the same mistake I did, don't be merciless." he said, letting his words sink in before he leaned forward and touched his nose to hers. he stepped back, allowing the next cat to go forward.

[Shade.]

Rockfall

The skinny apprentice moved out from the shadows. Not those dark, murky shadows, but the one cast down by the stats. Her ragged calico pelt was sprinkled with little twinkles, making her dark sitting spot look like a hidden little sky. Out in the open, she was underfed and skinny, a large scar running across her face. She had stayed like this. She could've been free but she wanted to keep a reminder. Last time she gave a life, it could be considered questionable as Eveningstar had not been fully successful. Maybe try something different than mental health, something else she didn't have in life.
"Hello, Aspenstrike. My name is Pinepaw. I was a ThunderClan cat, traumatised at a young age and lost all emotion other than grief. I didn't have enough time to find happiness but maybe you will. They is why I give you a life of joy, joy for you and to share with your clan."

[Poprock]

Cobra

"Aspenstrike!" She chirped, bouncing over to the future leader with her tail held high. "It's so good to see you! My name is Robinwhisker. I'm sure you saw me around." Green eyes did a once over of the molly, twinkling with amusement. It was clear the molly was a bundle of nerves. Who wouldn't be? Meeting nine dead cats right before you take over a clan? Woah. What had Eveningstar been like?

The calico couldn't deny the brief sadness that gripped her heart. Eveningstar barely had a chance to blossom into the great leader Robinwhisker knew he would be. Cut down to soon. Aspenstrike was a good choice, and Robinwhisker was proud to be awarding her with a life... but it still hurt.

"My final moments were... painful." Starry eyes squeezed shut as painful memories flooded her form, fire sweeping through her veins and wounds sizzling like the sun. Had Thunderclan even mourned her death? Had they realized the sacrafice she payed for her home before she was cut down? Or had they written her off as nothing more than an airheaded bird brain...

"I rushed into battle without thinking. Following no one's orders but my own. And look where that got me." She laughed humorously. And no one really cares that I'm gone. A voice whispered in her head. "If I had just thought for a moment, maybe I could be there to welcome you as our new leader. I want you to be thoughtful with this life, Aspenstrike."

A small smile crept onto her face after a moment, knowing what was coming next. "I, Robinwhisker, grant you the life of patience. Use it to guide our clan through tough times. Not to jump head first into conflict." Two noses touched, and Robinwhisker allowed the feeling of tranquility overtake the future leader, soon to be overtaken by a feeling of power. A feeling of confidence.

With one last smile, the calico stepped back into the stars and allowed the next cat to appear.

[poppy]

[ Cobra ]

[Ziera]

// Starry

Gorseflower waited a while, heart trembling as starry ones presented themselves one after another until it was her turn to approach. Aspen. Each step disturbed mist thickening the air around her paws. Gorseflower looked different like this, stars weaved into her fur and eyes glowing with the pale light of them, but Aspen would know. She’d feel the warmth emanating from Gorse in waves; it spread from the she-cat's face to every inch of her being, caused her vision to blur with moons of unshed tears. Happy ones. Stars, she'd missed this little one...although not so little anymore.

Her laugh was light and sweet as sugar. “Aspen.” Old memories of her former apprentice didn’t match the cat Gorseflower saw now, one who’d truly come into her own. Ready to lift her clan from the mire with a steady head and true heart. Overwhelmed, Gorse was. “Look at you. I’m so proud.” StarClan, if I had more time… pesky regret threatened to surface, but Gorseflower brushed it away. Their time was short; she resolved not to waste any wishing for more.

“Once in a musty old elder’s den I asked you to do something for me,” she murmured, seeming at peace despite what grief clouded the day. Their last conversation, her last request. Shadows passed over Gorse’s smile and for a moment, it seemed almost pained. “It’ll be harder now. You’ve overcome so much, but there are many more obstacles waiting, some seen and others unseen. You’ll be tested."

She paused. Took a breath. "So…with this life I gift you resilience.” Softness snuck into Gorseflower’s tone for the next words: “Use it to lead your clan with the heart you follow.”

It was time. Gorseflower dipped forward, touching her nose to the future leader of ThunderClan and allowed the life to ripple through its catalyst. The sensation was strong, tingling. It flooded Gorse with memories of encouragement, trusting confessions, gentle notes of warmth from their connection shared in life—then ended with biting spice and determination. A refusal to back down.

When all was over, the she-cat pulled away. Longing tasted bitter as Gorseflower drank in the sight of Aspen one last time, wanting to snatch every detail and hold on tight, even down to the three-clawed scar on her shoulder and torn ear. “...I’ll take care of Lynxpaw for you. Take care of yourself for us both.” She turned away before emotion had a chance to win out, before she changed her mind about going at all -- leaving behind wisps of shimmering grey.

[starry]

BILL.

The charcoal gray tom watched the other cats give lives to Aspenstrike. Then, Gorseflower came. He listened to what she said, ears pricked. Before Embertalon knew, she was finished. He stepped forwards, his slightly transparent shape carefully approaching the leader. "Aspenstrike. Even though we never really knew each other, I'm sure you've seen me around some time. I'm Embertalon." He sighed. The most logical procedure would probably start with him explaining how he died. How he had made a huge mistake. Embertalon flicked his tail in slight nervousness. "I died in a wrong way. I wasn't brave. I let myself be tricked by an outsider. Just as I was about to catch a mouse, he creeped up on me. I didn't expect it. When he pounced, I didn't even try to fight back. I thought I was doomed. And just because of the way I thought, I died. I was truly doomed, something I could have prevented. I don't want you to do the same. Always be aware of your surrounding and don't be afraid to fight back if anyone attacks you."

Now would probably be the hardest part - giving the life. Embertalon had gone into himself and decided that determination would have saved him back them. He curled his tale around his paws, sighing. What if he did something wrong now? No. He was going to give the ThunderClan leader her life. Even though it was his first time doing something like this, he could do it. He just had to summon the courage and the bravery that went into it. The tom attempted a brief smile at Aspenstrike, then got right into the important things. "I believe I've talked to much about my death. This is about your life," Embertalon meowed heavily. His voice slightly softened at the next words. "I give you the life of determination. Don't do the same I did. Always have the courage to stand up to other cats. Determination can bring you to achieve great things, things other leaders have never even dreamed of." It seemed like a weight had been lifted off him. He suddenly feeled light-pawed again, a feeling he hadn't felt since he was still alive. He stepped forward, touching noses with the new leader.

Embertalon hoped Aspenstrike would be the leader ThunderClan had been waiting for. Buckstar had done a great job in his leadership, but it just... wasn't enough. Even though he could do nothing about it, he had made a horrible impact on ThunderClan. Buckstar had started the conflict with RiverClan. Embertalon didn't want to blame it on him, though - coyotes were uncontrolable monsters. They didn't care about boundaries, ThunderClan had been lucky back then to have them chased off, even with the effort it had taken. Then came Eveningstar. No. Simply no. He had dissapeared from his clan for such a long time. ThunderClan had gone through hard times and suffering. And what did it bring? Finding him dead. Sighing, Embertalon stepped back again, his amber-orange gaze fixed on ThunderClan's new leader. "I hope you'll be the leader ThunderClan has been waiting for. Don't ever step back, do what you want to do. Now... do your thing. Be yourself." With that, he flicked his tail, signaling that the next and last cat could begin.

[BEAR.]

Brokenstar's voice was flat as he stepped forward, sharp gaze rested on Aspenstrike's form. "Though most of their hearts lie in the right place, they are doing you a disservice with your lives. Everything they have given you is what your predecessors had, and look where that has brought ThunderClan. Our Clan is in shambles; a ruined shadow of its former self. There is no pride left in being a ThunderClan cat." Unlike the others, Brokenstar skipped the self-intro: his name didn't matter. His life was irrelevant. ThunderClan's survival was at stake, and Aspenstrike needed to get the Clan's dung together. It couldn't keep going like this.

"You have two trails before you. One path leads to ThunderClan's salvation: a renewed interest in the Clan, an ignition of the burning passion the Clan presently lacks. The other leads to ThunderClan's destruction, the continuation of what has been and is currently being done. Since Snowstar's resignation, ThunderClan has struggled with unity, motivation, and integrity. They allow themselves to be stomped on, smeared, treated like kittypets because that's the lifestyle they've become accustomed to." Sourness crept in his voice. "I know you idolize those who led before you, but you need to recognize how terrible they were for ThunderClan. I placed my faith in Duskstar and Buckstar... at the time, they were the best. But leadership weakened them, it broke them, and they continued the line of passiveness that has only brought ThunderClan pain and misery. Duskstar crumbled and abandoned her Clan. Buckstar encouraged the poor involvement of his deputies and allowed a medicine cat to torment his Clan-mates. None of these actions are admirable." Though Buckstar tried, his decision to keep less than ideal cats in power cost his leadership greatly. A Clan could not prosper if only one cat tried.

"The life I give you is REALITY. To understand how dire the circumstances ThunderClan is in, to recognize the failures that have led to this point, and to be prepared to be the change ThunderClan needs. To be blunt, Aspenstrike, you need to step up your game. It's been a half-moon since Icicleripple appointed you leader and what have you done so far?" Nothing. He wasn't sure why she was dragging her tail on this, knowing the severity of the ongoing conflict with RiverClan, but enough was enough. They didn't need another Eveningstar.

He stepped back, casting his eyes across the other spirits and Icicleripple before he spoke again. "With the lives bestowed upon you, I hail you by your new name: Aspenstar. StarClan has granted you guardianship of ThunderClan, and I trust you will serve it well in the moons to come." If she didn't, perhaps it'd just confirm his growing belief in curses. Was this his way of being punished for what his son had done?

Only time would tell under Aspenstar, he supposed.

[ poppy., Panda1440 ]

[marshy]

// Slushie tulle implimm sid NinjaBloss starry. Shade. Adderbite WinterMara
[okaY so in the order i've mentioned you is the order ur character should come up to give a life! also u can check the original finder to find the order 2 sjdkskds. I'll be doing a large reaction post after everyone has given a life so dw about waiting for me to post. Make sure to mention me and the person after you when you post please!! :heartbounce:]
Sparrowskip
______________

Sparrowskip left the camp at night, the vigil was a nice way to say goodbye and.. he still was so shocked about Kestrelstar's death. He still couldn't believe his leader and.. friend, was dead. It was quite a long walk as Sparrowskip made his way to Starcave and, he still wasn't quite sure how he was going to take being leader or what he was going to do. But it would come to him.. hopefully. He just wished he could lead RiverClan well enough as the leaders before him did. Gosh he still wasn't ready for this but, he could do this.
Sparrowskip stopped at the front of the Starcave as the wind blew all around him, it seemed more fierce than usual. And the night sky illuminated the cave. Sparrowskip could hear the plants talking, even through the wind. Enticing him to enter, he wasn't sure why the plants of all things would be telling him that but, he shrugged it off as them seeing this many times before. Maybe they were just as anxious as he was about this, seeing as a new leader was entering the fray. He stepped inside the Starcave, as he had done many moons before and looked around. Was.. something suppose to happen? He wasn't quite sure. So he spoke. "Uh.. StarClan? I'm sure you know but.. Kestrelstar he.. he's dead. And since I was his deputy I'm here for my nine lives." Surely that would, do the trick?

[dino.]

// tulle marshall

>Goosefury<
When Goosefury had died, he had been terrified. He'd been terrified, and confused, and so brokenhearted, because dying meant never being able to see Rowanmist again. Dying meant never being able to tell the tom how he felt. Dying meant never living the life he thought he would live. In his last moments, that had all been so very clear to him. It had been clearer than anything he'd ever felt, and to him, that was so unfair.

When Kestrelstar had died... Well, Goosefury wasn't sure how to feel. The leader was so young, was just starting out, and still had so much more to prove to his Clanmates. Goosefury had served alongside the tom, and knew how well a leader he had been. RiverClan would have thrived under his leadership... Maybe he was meant to feel disappointed, or frustrated, that such a future had been had been torn from his Clan. Kestrelstar had left behind someone equally as young.

Then he'd started to think. Not just in fleeting moments, no, he'd really sat down and thought. It wasn't often he reflected over his own decisions, much less the choices of others. But being dead meant he had nothing else better to do with his time, and so think Goosefury did. And after a long while of thinking, he began to realize, slowly, that although Kestrelstar would have led RiverClan into a bright and successful future, he had done things that had caused irreparable damage, and might have continued to do so, because the leader had never really known when to stop. Goosefury couldn't blame him—he knew the feeling all too well, and his own decisions had caused him personal strife that very well could have been avoided.

Sparrowskip had never been as intense as either of them. But grief did terrible things to a cat, and one could never be too careful.

Now, Goosefury, his form in death remaining the same as it had been in life, ragged scars and all - stood amongst a crowd of cats. Some, he vaguely recognized; most were entirely unfamiliar. But his gaze was trained on the spot where Sparrowskip slowly faded into view. A small sigh made his nostrils flare; then he rose to his paws to move forward until he was standing just a few pawsteps away.

A crooked grin split his features. "Look who decided to show up. Did you get tired of waiting your turn?" It was a bad joke, perhaps in poor taste. Goosefury had never been the best at this sort of stuff, this... talking, these apologies, this comforting. His grin faded into a small, sorrowful smile, as he glanced over Sparrowskip's form once more.

"Kestrelstar was a good leader. He did a lot of things that kept RiverClan stable after Lionstorm's death. But Kestrelstar... never knew when, or how, to let go of things before they went too far. I admit I didn't, either. And I think it caused both of us a lot of regret. He made as many mistakes as he did good choices. Some of his decisions led to more harm than good."

After another moment of regarding Sparrowskip, Goosefury moved forward to touch his nose to the other tom's. "With that in mind, and with this life, I give you the ability to know when to relent. Not everything has to be pushed to its very limits. Sometimes pulling back will do more than pushing forward will. Keep your Clanmates in mind, and RiverClan's future and well-being; your decisions should reflect where you want to take them. RiverClan's future rests on your shoulders; you've got be careful."

As he stepped away once again and turned to retake his place amongst the crowd to make room for the next, he tossed a humorous wink over his scarred shoulder. "No pressure, huh?"

[taillow]

Dustymoth
Being constantly surrounded by stars was new for Dustymoth - and difficult, considering he was drawn to all things sparkly. For the most part he had spent his time staring slack-jawed at all of the cats around him. Beautiful glimmering fur, eyes that swirled with mystical knowledge he knew only time could provide him with. His death... well, it had been painful. He remembered the claws, the blood, the scent of... A shake of his head dislodged the thoughts though as he turned to notice a few cats gathering.

Something about it seemed to call him, luring his paws closer until he was at the back of the gathered group. They were all staring at something - or someone - and as Dustymoth moved closer he caught glances of familiar golden fur.

That was Sparrowskip! Oh. Memories rushed back to Dustymoth as he recalled what had happened right before his terrifying death. Kestrelstar had been brought back into camp - dead. He had, after lying a leaf down by the leader, fled from the scene in a whirlwind of dark gray fur. Sorrow had nipped at his heels the whole way, and had been perhaps what led to his own death.

None of that mattered now as his ears moved forward to catch a tom speaking. Goosefury! The shield had gone missing, but Dustymoth could not ever recall being informed he had died?? Grief gripped his heart as he tried to swallow the growing lump in his throat. Maybe after this was all over he could speak with the older tom and get some closure on his death. Not that they were close, but they were Clanmates after all.

As Goosefury returned to his place among the stars, Dustymoth blinked. No one was stepping forward... who was next? A sudden tug at his heart surprised him, and without thinking he found himself padding forward. Emerging from the shimmering wall of StarClan cats, a sudden realization settled over the tom. A life! He was giving a life! Despite the gloomy atmosphere, Dustymoth wore a smile as he approached Sparrowskip.

"Hiya Sparrowskip!" Warmth coated his words as Dustymoth bounced happily on his paws, blue eyes squinted to make room for the growing grin on his maw. "I'm really sorry I wasn't there for the meeting... it was just really sad, y'know? But I did give Kestrelstar a leaf - I hope he liked it, wherever he is..." He hadn't seen the leader around StarClan at all, which was weird considering he was certain he was dead.

Reeling himself back into the present, Dustymoth lifted his head and rolled his shoulders back. "But now you're here, and RiverClan will continue to thrive, I just know it! With this life, I give you the life of adventure. Duties and responsibilities can weigh on a cat - make sure that you take the time to understand when to engage your Clan in fun activities, as not every cat responds well to all work and no play." A mischievous gleam appeared in his gaze as he stretched his neck forward to touch noses with Sparrowskip.

The moment seemed to stretch on forever, but then just like that it was over, and Dustymoth pulled away. He gave another warm smile towards the deputy. "Also, I think I may have left behind some of my shells in the clearing somewhere. You can have them if you want! Or maybe the kits would like them!" Cheerful as ever. With a farewell nod of his head, Dustymoth gave a wave of his tail before retreating back into his spot amongst the stars.

[ marshall implimm ]

[plum]

[ marshall, sid ]

From the serene blue-green depths of a starlaced field of tall grasses emerges two figures, right before much of the meeting took place. Starkpelt, and an unfamiliar, smaller kit. They sit a little bit further away from the others and observe as a new face, flush with the essence of life which none here bore any longer, comes into view. His words humored the queen, who smiled from where she sat. She was here again, to give somebody else a new life to spend on their Clan, and while her patience was bottomless, her heart shuddered to think of how many times she would bestow such gifts to those who would forsake them so soon. Who had given Twilightstar her lives? And did they feel proud to see the she-cat still strong to this day?

Things that mattered not, in this place, for this cat. Starkpelt stoops low to give the kit in her belly fur a forehead lick before standing and padding out to greet RiverClan's new leader.

With a fascinated smile, she nods to the tom. "Hello, Sparrowskip. I must admit, I do find myself impossibly tied to your Clan and the making of its leadership, it is becoming vaguely amusing to me now." Pausing, the cat takes a few moments to gaze around them slowly. Her tail sweeps low across the lush grass beneath their paws, and her toes knead the soil. Taking a deep breath in, Starkpelt exhales with a gentle "mmn."

"You will likely find yourself where those before you have stood- Overlooking your Clanmates, overlooking others, staring those you most despise in the face even, and struggling to find a reason to do good when every fiber of your being is begging for something like justice or revenge or punishment. The young tom before you struggled greatly with this, and allowed the darkness in his heart to hurt not only his enemies, but his Clanmates as well, and rather than apologize for those tragic mistakes chose to smother them and hope they would fade to time. But all wounds leave scars, and everything we do today leaves traces on what follows tomorrow. I shall give you a life of empathy, to freeze a moment and understand what you do will have consequences- So understand this, and express empathy for even your worst enemies where you can, so that whether it be the outcome of a conversation, or the outcome of a battle, you can say you've given everything you had to the other."

Her words might have seemed... Puzzling, to say the least. But Starkpelt was not looking for understanding. She gazes at the tom for another moment before leaning in and touching her nose to his without further hesitation. Empathy wasn't always simple. Sometimes, it could be the worst thing in the world. Sometimes you didn't want to try and understand others, sometimes you didn't wish to see another perspective or another way. Sometimes it was heartbreaking, maddening, sickening. Empathy could sometimes be full of grief for another. Starkpelt hoped that her life would press Sparrowskip to be more sensitive towards others, more aware. Observing the Clans had become so heartwrenching lately.

Pulling away, the WindClan cat blinks slowly at the slowly rising star. "Do better than those before you, Sparrowskip. And live honestly." Flicking her tail, the queen steps back, and then seems to fade- Only coming back into view as she sweeps Pinekit into an embrace in the distance once more.

[furrensic]

NinjaBloss marshall //

➵ beeblaze | he/him

being in a grassy field dotted with stars was not new for beeblaze, a tom who had already died before. if anything, it was something that he had missed, as grim as that sounded. as he padded through the starry field, steps making him feel as light as air, he watched a new face come within eyeshot. a new leader. he observed the first few cats to make their way to the new leader, each giving him a life.

eventually, after starkpelt is finished and has stepped back, he padded over. as he got closer, it was clear that he'd reverted back to a different stage of his life - no longer was he scarred and worn out looking. he looked more youthful than he had when he was alive, just a few sunrises ago. "hello, sparrowskip." he greeted, voice still tinged with roughness that it'd developed over the moons.

"many leaders before you have given up before, which resulted in their clan receiving the damage for it. some would step down, some would let their clans fall, some would..die, because they lost hope. i can only hope that if you do lose it, you won't let your clan suffer because of it. there's always things to look forward to.." beeblaze said, star dotted pelt prickling slightly. he didn't want a cat to end up like he had.


he breathed in. "with this life, i give you the life of hope. always look forward to the future - don't give up, ever. do the best you can." giving a small nod, the tom stepped back and returned to his place amongst the stars and fields.

[Ian]

Talonkit had been surprised when he felt the tug in his heart to attend the ceremony. He hadn't thought he would be one to give a life, but here he was padding towards Sparrowskip after Beeblaze stepped back. Stars shimmered in his kit fluff as he craned his head to look up at the soon-to-be-leader, emotions swirling in his blue eyes.

When the large kit had died he had been terrified. When he was taken to StarClan that terror had turned into confusion. Why had they brought him? Hadn't he been a mistake? Snakeheart had said so, after all. But apparently that wasn't true, and the medicine cat was simply in immature bully who did not understand the impact of his words.

"Sparrowskip... it is unfortunate to see you here so soon. There will be hard times ahead, and your emotions will be haywire, but you need to learn to control them and remain strong. Do not lash out or spit hateful words. A Snake did that to me when I asked an innocent question, and look where I am now. Perhaps you should have a conversation, otherwise there might be more like me in the future. With this life I give you emotional stability. Use it well to maintain a level head and in control, and to teach others how to do the same lest rash decisions and hateful words lead to the death of more Clanmates."

Talonkit stood on his tiptoes to touch noses with Sparrowskip, although the tom would most certainly have to lean down if he wanted to reach. Once the life was given he made his way back into the ranks of star-pelted cats, casting one last solemn glance back at the deputy before disappearing from view.

marshall starry.

[starry]

|| marshall Shade.

Skyleaf sighed to herself as she watched Sparrowskip enter the Starcave, then his dream to receive nine lives. Kestrelstar's death had been so unfortunate, and she wondered how the soon-to-be leader would deal with it. Had Sparrowskip been close to Kestrelstar? From what she observed only somewhat, but the deceased leader had trusted him with the role of deputy even while he had once failed to be medicine cat.

But past mistakes could be erased, followed by a bright future. She was very much aware of that. She watched as the cats before her gave the new leader lives, one by one. Goosefury, with the life of knowing when to relent. That was an important one. Then Dustymoth... adventure. Empathy. Hope. Emotional Stability. They all made sense, on their own and put together. She wondered how Talonkit, a mere kit could be so clever with giving his life, but she gave it no thought. StarClan changed everyone, especially young cats.

Before she was ready, it was her turn. Skyleaf took a deep inhale, her lean white figure looking almost transparent as she took a few steps forward, clear blue eyes settled on Sparrowskip. She already knew which life she was going to give, but standing here it seemed harder to compose the words than she had imagined. "Sparrowskip," the molly breathed, not taking up any time to introduce herself. This was not about her, it was about Sparrowskip.

"The reason you are here today holds much grief, both in you and in your clan. It must have hurt for you to see Kestrelstar pass away so quickly after you were made deputy. But you must stay true to your clan. Do not get lost in your grief, like many leaders before you have. I'm sure you will serve your clan well," she started. "That brings me to the life I shall give you already."

Skyleaf smiled sadly, flicking her fluffy tail as she opened her maw. "The life I give you is truth. Truth to yourself and your clan. There is a deeper meaning of truth you have yet to explore, but I shall not tell it to you yet. I am sure you will find out soon, Sparrowskip. Be a great leader. The one RiverClan has been looking for."

With that, she dipped her head and moved forward to touch noses. "Stay true," she whispered with a small nod. Skyleaf slowly parted, taking her place with the fellow StarClan cats that were giving Sparrowskip lives and waiting patiently for the next cat to step forward, ears pricked.

[Shade.]

marshall Adderbite
Once again, it was time for Pinepaw to give away a life. The gaunt calico stepped up after Skyleaf and prepared herself. It was odd, how a nobody like her got such an important job numerous times.

The skinny, malnourished cat scanned the new leader with bright yet sorrowful new eyes. A small smile appeared on her maw. This really was a great responsibility for him, wasn't it? Greater than it was for her.

"Sparrowskip, my name is Pinepaw. I was once a ThunderClan apprentice. Life was not too kind for me. But that doesn't mean it has to be like that for everyone. I've seen the feud between your clan and ThunderClan and I cannot say it didn't bring me sadness. Cats are suffering, even if there's no more outright battle. You were chosen to be deputy, perhaps because of strength, perhaps because of loyalty. But you must remember that before you can be a good leader, you have to be a good cat." she said, all in a calm and kind tone, slightly tinted with melancholy. She reached out to give his nose a boop, transferring the mysterious power that gave him one extra life.

"I give you a life of compassion. Open up your heart to the world and share it's kindness with your clan and even those outside it. They might just do the same for you." she said mystically before nodding and backing up next to the others.

[Adderbite]

DARKKIT
marshall WinterMara

Stepping forward to replace Pinepaw, was an ebony tom kit, shrouded by starlight. His once green eyes had faded in color, reflecting the stars. It was finally his turn. Eagerly, he'd been sitting at the back of the crowd, desperate for his chance to share his life. StarClan had taken pity on him and had allowed him to join their ranks. They had recognized the pain he'd experienced as a tiny kit. His mother had accepted his death before it had even happened. She never struck him or did anything to harm him physically, but her lack of outward love had filled him with resentment. Thus, he'd attempted to kill his sister.

Yet, she had so readily forgiven him. The day after he attempted to take her life, she'd forgiven him. She'd try to fix their relationship. She had loved him despite how he'd treated her. He didn't deserve any of it. Killing another cat should have been unforgivable. For some reason, both StarClan and his sister thought differently. And, ever since he'd joined StarClan, he'd been showered with love. It was time that he repaid StarClan by living Sparrowskip a chance to become RiverClans' new leader.

"Hello Sparrowskip," Despite his tiny size, he was able to procure a large voice, a gift of being a StarClan cat, "My name is Darkkit and I was a kit in ThunderClan." It was poetic in a sense-- that he was giving the RiverClan cat his eighth life and that it was one of forgiveness. Something that his sister, and StarClan, had given him. Whilst being something that he was never able to do until his death. He never could forgive his mother, or father, for leaving him to fend for himself. Oh, how he wished he could tell his sister that he was sorry for all he'd done... "I am..." The kit sent an uncertain glance at his StarClan peers, before continuing, "I am... not quite sure if I belong here. I tried killing my sister when I was just a kit. She was able to forgive me for what I'd done to her."

"With this life, I give you forgiveness. Use it to forgive those who wronged you. Your Clanmates will make mistakes and sometimes ones that will hurt you. Sometimes they might lash out at you in their fit of rage. It doesn't necessarily mean that they're disloyal. It'll be your job to forgive them, and put what they did aside, for the good of your Clan." He stood on tiptoe so that he could press his nose to Sparrowskip's. Anger and resentment surged from him, from when he lived with his parents no doubt, which slowly faded into peaceful acceptance. "I'm so glad I was able to do this for you, Sparrowskip." His voice dropped to a near whisper. It didn't matter to him that Sparrowskip was a RiverClan cat. Nor that RiverClan and ThunderClan had their differences rather recently. If anything, he felt it gave his life more meaning.

Without another word, the little tom went to stand beside the other StarClan cats.

[WinterMara]

| Wildpath of Starclan |

She was just sitting doing nothing, of all the things cat can do while deceased, this was her choice. Instead of thinking about the endless prey and the good things about this place, her mind was stuck in the past, thinking about her mistakes and flaws. Wildpath was a useless warrior in Riverclan, and a useless queen too, huh, who knew that was possible? She got up as her mind went to her death and her running away from her clan, her kits, her problems, her life. Why was she so mousebrained, why was she such a loner, such a coward? To be honest, she doubted she’d helped that one apprentice she’d met after her demise, probably made things worse, wonder if he’s okay?

Her eyes then drew to a golden tabby with amber eyes, wait, he did look familiar. Oh, one of her past clanmates, and if she could recall from what little she’d seen of modern Riverclan, the new deputy. Or. . .wait, no, he was now the new leader, this was his nine lives ceremony, of course. Sootstar had, well, now she knew he left, Lionstorm died, and now, Kestrelstar had too. What was with Riverclan and this curse, just leaders falling barely short of good, succesful, happy lives? As the lives were being giving, her stomach felt sick, not in a literal sense, metaphorical sense, would this leader have the same flaws of his predecessors and peers? Well, he was getting life after life, and, there was one way to try and truly fix this pattern.

As she looked to Sparrowskip, her gaze laid on him, well, she better speak. ‘ ‘Hello, I am Wildpath, a past warrior of Riverclan.’ ’ Yeah just, introduce yourself, it’s fine, oh Starclan she’s never done this it’s not fine! ‘ ‘I was a more reserved cat, not really being useful to the clan, even when I became a queen to my own litter of kits, I actually messed up quite a few times, eventually running off from my clan when things got hectic.’ ’ As her memories began to resurface, she shook them off, no, it’s fine just keep going. ‘ ‘If you couldn’t tell, I ended up dying because of it, I left my own family and clan, and it lead to my own murder.’ ’ Part of her wondered if anyone would’ve truly missed her, or felt bad for her demise, she had no friends, she messed up patrols, and Wildpath wasn’t even a good mother in the end.

‘ ‘I believe many cats here would hold my sentiment, but while many cats will tell you to learn from what others do, I think we should pay more attention to what others don’t do.’ ’ As she looked around the cats here, a realization hit, she wasn’t the only flawed one here, and it filled her with, oddly enough, a former of closure. ‘ ‘So, I give you the life of staying strong for those who need you. . .don’t do what me and many others did and just run away from your problems, stay strong even through the pain, because the others around you might not be able to stay strong without that strength.’ ’ She touched noses with the deputy, and took a step back. ‘ ‘I know this is kind of, anti-climatic for a last life, so, I guess I’ll leave it to someone else to give you the title.’ ’

| marshall Slushie

[dino.]

// marshall

>Goosefury<
Goosefury had watched the rest of the ceremony with a sort of fascinated curiosity. He'd never seen this happen before. Being able to witness it, actually be a part of it—well, it was all really something else. He recognized Dustymoth (when the heck had he died??), and Talonkit, and Wildpath. The others remained unfamiliar to him, their names sparking nothing.

When they finished, he ran through the lives in his mind. All pretty solid, he figured. Wasn't this where Sparrowskip would be given his leader name, or was Goosefury assuming wrong? He still felt like something else was missing... for a moment, he didn't move, just sat there, glancing awkwardly around the group of star-speckled cats.

Then what was missing tugged at him, and it tugged at him hard. Yes, that was it. Kestrelstar had had no constant reminder of what his leadership meant; Goosefury had only had his scars to tell him how to act, and even those hadn't done the trick. He found himself rising to his paws and crossing the length to Sparrowskip once more. When he spoke again, his voice was low and serious, much unlike last time.

"Y'know, I really looked up to Kestrelstar. Thought he would be the one to give RiverClan the bright future we deserved. Then some of the things he did... They would have taken away from that in the long run." He took a deep breath, carefully considering his next words, before he continued.

"Instead of... whatever usually happens with these things. I name you Skystar. I want you to be RiverClan's bright future instead, instead of someone who will let it grow stagnant or run it into the ground. Put your sights to the sky and reach for it. You are far more than your predecessor, and you can do great things with what you've been given. Please don't waste it."

He wavered for a moment, seeming to hesitate, and then dropped his voice so low that it would only be heard by Skystar and Skystar alone."If you get the chance... please tell Rowanmist that I love him."

Then he took a step back, features twisting back into a small smile. "I meant what I said, y'know? 'No pressure'. You'll be all right."

Everything would be all right.

[marshy]

// Slushie

Sparrowskip felt his heart skip a beat when Goosefury appeared in front of him. That meant.. oh. That's where the shield has disappeared to, Sparrowskip wondered what could've happened, part of him wanted to ask but.. it probably wouldn't be a welcome response. Sparrowskip smirked at the joke, it was.. interesting considering the circumstances. Sparrowskip listened as Goosefury spoke, and he was certainly right. That was a problem most leaders had, unexpectedly Sparrowskip hit with horrible burn. His head ached and felt an overwhelming sense of something as it felt as if he entire body was being scorched with flames. The pain left almost as fast as it came. And he was left, panting as the next cat came up.
No Pressure...

tulle

As Sparrowskip looked back up he saw.. Dustymoth? Just how many of RiverClan's good warriors had they lost lately, without anyone even knowing? Sparrowskip would have to.. promote more warriors to shields to stop this from happening or at least do.. something. Sparrowskip instantly felt more at peace from the pain of the last life when Dustymoth approached him. Sparrowskip almost as immediately as the last time felt and overwhelming feeling, this time it was a sense of urgency and curiosity as a sort of warm pain enveloped him. This life seemed to last longer, as if he was going on a journey with those he loved most.
Also, I think I may have left behind some of my shells in the clearing somewhere. You can have them if you want! Or maybe the kits would like them!

implimm

Sparrowskip watched as the next Starclan cat came up, Starkpelt. Sparrowskip tilted his head slightly as she mused over her ties with RiverClan. Sparrowskip was noticing a trend that getting these lives were making him feel worse abot becoming leader, before he could think about it any longer however Sparrowskip felt the same burn from the first life but instead of being all over, it felt it was eating away at his heart. He flinched as he felt the burn slowly spread from his chest to the rest of his body. Sparrowskip still felt the pain as Starkpelt said her last words.
Live Honestly...

sid

Sparrowskip listened intently as Beeblaze spoke, Wasn't he.. a former medicine cat? Sparrowskip prepared himself for Beeblaze giving the life and felt instead of the burn, the overwhelming urge to push through, no matter the circumstances. It was so strong that Sparrowskip could barely breathe, and it was the longest lasting life by far. It felt as if it was going to be stuck with him.. forever.
Always look forward to the future - don't give up, ever. do the best you can.

NinjaBloss

Talonkit.. wasn't that the kit that had died some time ago? Sparrowskip for some reason couldn't recall the memory, only the feeling that this kit had been wronged in a horrible.. horrible way. It came back to him however as Talonkit spoke. Snakeheart..? Sparrowskip felt the overwhelming scorch all over his body again, it hurt most on his head and his chest, he could barely breath again as he tried to get air back into his lungs. It felt he had lost his breath and was unable to get it back.
Do not lash out or spit hateful words...

starry.

Sparrowskip was still trying to catch his breath back as Skyleaf approached him. Grief... Sparrowskip's grief was strong after all the people he had lost. He tried not to think about it but lately.. it had been coming to his mind more and more. Sparrowskip wasn't quite sure if he'd ever find out what this truth Skyleaf was talking about but, the pain from this life was the lowest of all the lives. It was.. a good feeling. One that gave him peace and warmth.
Stay true...

Shade.

As Pinepaw walked up, the feeling of the last life melted away as Pinepaw spoke. Pinepaw was right, just because he was deputy didn't mean he would be a good leader. Sparrowskip thought back to Sootstar, and sincerely hoped he wouldn't take the leader's path. This life was warm like the last one. It was filled with the urge to help his clan and stay strong with them through thick and thin. It lasted the shortest yet felt the longest. It was a feeling Sparrowskip was new to...
Open up your heart to the world and share it's kindness with your clan and even those outside it. They might just do the same for you.

Adderbite

This ThunderClan kit was right, it was strange he was here in StarClan. Sparrowskip could only muse that it was his sister's forgiveness towards him that had StarClan let him into their star-filled clearing. The life of forgiveness burned Sparrowskip, he felt a feeling of unsureness yet certainty in his decision. It felt as if even through the uncertainty things.. would work out...
I am... not quite sure if I belong here. I tried killing my sister when I was just a kit. She was able to forgive me for what I'd done to her...

WinterMara

Wildpath.. did that name ring a bell? Sparrowskip had so much on his mind lately he wasn't sure if it did, but he lent his ear to the queen as she spoke. Sparrowskip would feel bad for the molly but.. she ran away from her clan and responsibilities. How could he feel bad for someone like that? Sparrowskip slowly started to feel the burn again. The life of staying strong for those who need you... This life burned the absolute most. It took a moment for it to fully ramp out but once it had reached his peak it felt as if Sparrowskip was in a lake of flames. All around him, no where to go.
Because the others around you might not be able to stay strong without that strength.

@/slushie

Sparrowskip was still feeling the pain as Goosefury walked back up. At this point, tears were streaming down Sparrowskip's face from the pain. Sparrowskip looked up to the shield as he gave Sparrowskip his new name.. Skystar
Sparrowskip felt like his whole body was about to kill him from the pain, he heard Goosefury's last words about Rowanmist however, and he'd make an effort to tell him about Goosefury's confession. And seemingly as quickly as the lives, pain and StarClan cats came they were all gone. Skystar was sitting on the floor of the Starcave, filled with pain.. and alone.
I meant what I said, y'know? 'No pressure'. You'll be all right.

[Rani]

It was evident with just a glance that Snakeheart wasnt taking care of himself. His fur normally kept spick and span with a rigorous grooming routine was ragged and ruffled unkempt and pushed up at one side from hours spent listless in his nest. He wasnt sleeping though, deep dark bags under his eyes showing how restless his sleep had been. His brother was dead, how could one sleep well with such knowledge. If Snakeheart was a proper medicine cat he'd probably have slept constantly over the last week, just to see his brother in his dreams, but Snakeheart was no religious or blessed cat. In a way his current state displayed that as no truely dutiful medicine cat would let themselves get this way before a meeting with the stars. Medicine cat meetings were supposed to be blessed times, but with the clear dried and brittle tear tracks marring Snakehearts face he obviously didnt care.


Even his pace was listless in a way as the tom lead Reedpaw to the cave, only the strength provided from his goal driving him forward. Tonight Reedpaw was to show her merit, she was to talk to starclan. Usually the medicine cats would wait outside and go in together but Snakeheart did no such thing and gave no introductions leading Reedpaw into the entrance of the cave before finally finally speaking to her with one simple instruction. "Kestrelstar should be in starclan and as a medicine cat you should be able to talk to him. I chose you because of a sign of starclan. Your task tonight is simple, talk to my brother. Tell him.... Tell him I need to know why he jumped, why he left us. I dont care how you do it just..... I dont know just be a medicine cat. Ill be waiting outside." And as ragged and heart broken as he had come the tom turned attention from his apprentice head bowed in front of the cave, completely forgetting the other medicine cats were bound to come tonight too as he stared silently into the starry sky, eyes welling with tears he did not shed.

Nixey Naiad Shade. x ghostie

[wolfie]

Nixey Naiad Shade. Rani // so sorry snakeheart //
The Starcave. Cowpaw had heard stories from his family members, the details always varied but it was consistent that this was where the medicine cats gathered to talk to their ancestors. He could not deny there was excitement but overwhelming fear of whether or not this was where he would be denied or validated. (Then, uhm, again, Cricketpaw hadn't... said there had been a mistake, so? Maybe?) Nonetheless, the oversized tom bounced down the trail beside Twilightstar. Cowpaw giggled quietly to himself, oh! Despite his worries, this was so ...!! So!!! Rumblethunder!!! Eee!! Yes!! This would be just wonderful, just wonderful!

As the Starcave (or what he believed to be) came into view, Cowpaw said his goodbyes to Twilightstar with a dip of his head. Turning away from her, he began to approach the mystical cave. His eyes sparkled with awe, coming to a full stop to simply admire it. "Oh golly... truly the epitome of beauty.." He mewed to himself, a shiver being sent down his spine. Amazing. The medicine cat notices a uhm, oh, well! What he was going to assume was a fellow medicine cat!?

Cowpaw was surprised he wasn't the first one here but was awfully grateful for it. He approached them, skipping to stand in front of them with burning curiosity. Small issue, he was very much clueless on who he was talking to! It was one of the older ones and.. oh stars, they looked like they hadn't gotten a lick of good sleep in ages. Cowpaw did notice that there was no smaller medicine cats with them so, does this mean it wasn't Snakeheart or Sundust? Oh! Oh! How could he be so foolish?

Oh.

His ears lowered in worry, was,, was this ... Shad...Shadowclan's... medi..medicine cat... ? There was an awkward silence. twilightstar, please come back!! Well, it did explain why they weren't at the Gathering! They looked just awful, oh shucks. (Were they sick?) Not wishing to be rude, he began to make shaky gestures. He waved a paw and then slid both of his paws against each other, finally having them be against each other pointing towards the cat. It did not last long because Cowpaw almost lost his balance completely. "Hello...! I'm.. Cowpaw..! I am .. Windclan's medicine cat... pleasure to .. meet you..!" He gestured, doing his best to keep it simple. He offered a small, shy, smile to them. Then, the tom took a seat while he waited for the others to gather.

[Shade.]

Nixey
Naiad
x ghostie
Rani

Rosepaw had never been here before, but she'd heard about this place. It was odd. As an outsider she'd had no knowledge of StarClan, but joining the clans had opened her eyes to a whole new possibility of a life beyond death. She wondered if her mama was somewhere, somewhere where rogues and loners went. Would she be disappointed in her for choosing another afterlife to visit?

The small cinnamon tabby walked up to the intimidating entrance. She then noticed Cowpaw and Jerkface. Jerkface seemed to be...sadface. Well, whatever, it wasn't her problem. Obviously. That's when she found out her paw instinctively reaching out and stopped herself backing up. Yes, it wasn't her problem, plus, if she asked what was wrong, he'd just yell at her. She sat down, waiting for everyone to gather and to in.

[beau]

Sundust trotted over, just behind Rosepaw. His pale eyes surveyed the small group briefly. Cowpaw was here - good, Sundust wanted to make up for the lackluster interaction at the gathering - as well as Snakeheart. Snakeheart. What was with him?

He surveyed the Riverclan medicine cat's face carefully, eyes narrowing as he absorbed the other tom's expression. He seemed.. solemn. Sad. What had his tail in a twist? The burly medicine cat opened his mouth to question what was the matter, before quickly shifting his gaze to the others. He doubted Snakeheart would appreciate his nosing about Riverclan's business. Really, the senior medicine cat would probably snap at him. Again. That would not make for good medicine cat meeting. Instead, he settled for a greeting. "Hello Cowpaw, Snakeheart." He dipped his head to the two other toms respectively. Where was Reedpaw? He bit back that question too.

He stood awkwardly for a moment, silent. What were they meant to do? He had never attended a medicine cat meeting before, and they had been an awfully big secret when he was a warrior. He was excited to potentially meet with Starclan, but standing outside the Starcave with the others, just looking around uncomfortably, kind of killed his energy.

"What.." The beginning of the sentence left his mouth before his could truly think about his words, "What do we do now?" He found his eyes wandering to Snakeheart once more, the eldest medicine cat. The only one here who would have a clue as to what they were meant to do. His gaze flicked away again, but then immediately returned. Why should they have to tiptoe around some grumpy furball? Sundust would look at him. He would ask questions. Yes, he would be sympathetic when needed. He would show common decency. But he wasn't going to cower from Snakeheart of all cats.

Shade. Rani x ghostie Nixey (is there a reason we're not mentioning Fletch for this?)

[Nixey]

Reedpaw had been growing steadily concerned for her mentor. His ragged, ruffled and quite honestly dirty fur told her he was not in the best place currently, and who could honestly blame the medicine cat? If Reedpaw had lost someone who was basically family to her, well, she couldn't rule out acting the same way as him. She stayed away from questioning any of his decisions lately and simply made sure she completed whatever task may have been assigned to her that day as Reedpaw was happy to help in whatever way she could. As such, she had been happy to follow behind Snakeheart to The Starcave.

However when they arrived she was a bit surprised that instead of awaiting for the others, Snakeheart was leading her inside. Maybe they were meant to meet inside rather than outside? That made the most sense to her, and quite honestly Reedpaw didn't want to consider anything else it could be. Though as her mentor began to speak Reedpaw could feel her heart sinking in her chest. She parted her jaws to argue with him, but decided against it as she knew Snakeheart could give her a nice chip in her ear were she to argue with him.

So instead she watched him exit the cave, her stomach swirling as she stared after him. He wasn't even going to remain inside the cave with her? He expected her to do this on her own for the first time ever? Well that didn't really seem fair to her, though then again maybe it was better this way as she was a bit afraid to mess up in front of him. This had to be simple enough, why else would he have expected her to do this on her own if it wasn't?

Swallowing back her worry, Reedpaw carefully made her way towards the stone she supposed was what he had spoken about. He had explained the basics of how to get in connection with Starclan, and with the instructions running through her head Reedpaw laid down carefully in front of the stone. She had to admit it was a gorgeous sight to behold, but she allowed her eyes to fall closed in this moment. Exhaling in an attempt to relax, Reedpaw slowly leaned forward to touch her nose against the surface of the rock. Silent hopes ran through her head that this would be as easy as Snakeheart had made it seem.

However, even as Reedpaw waited a few moments nothing happened. No dream, no Kestrelstar coming to see her, and no Starclan cat for that matter. Slowly her heart sunk into her chest, but she attempted to assure herself she had simply done something wrong. This had to work, she was chosen by Starclan after all, so why wouldn't it? Readjusting on the floor, Reedpaw brought her head back before slowly leaning back in and pressing her nose to the surface.

Hope fizzled out as nothing came the second time. Pulling back, that feeling of hopelessness was replaced by frustration. She wanted to rip the Moonstone from where it stood, seemingly taunting her with the way it shimmered and yet didn't deliver what she wanted, what she needed. She needed to prove her worth to Snakeheart, she had to. With a frustrated huff, Reedpaw pressed her nose to the Moonstone yet again, hoping the third time really would be the charm.

Though, when nothing came yet again, Reedpaw let out a frustrated growl before attempting to calm herself. Surely this was simply a mistake, surely Snakeheart would understand she had tried thrice and yet still got it wrong. Maybe he'd help her? Well there was only one way to find out. Turning on her paws, Reedpaw bounded after her mentors scent trail to the mouth of the cave.

As she emerged, the disappointment as evident on her features. She still felt like a failure, though, even if it was slim, she hoped Snakeheart would show a bit of comfort. However when she saw the three other cats gathered she felt her heart falter. She couldn't explain she had failed in front of them! 'Starclan please don't have Snakeheart asked what happened,' with this thought running through her head, she stepped to her mentors side with a forced smile. "Hello Sundust, Rosepaw," nodding in the direction of the Thunderclan cats, Reedpaw turned towards Cowpaw with a light chirp of "and, of course, Cowpaw."

Rani | Naiad | Shade. | x ghostie

[Rani]

A blink. Two blinks. And then Cowpaw managed the impossible.



Roused from his depression slump Snakeheart cocked his head confused before stutteringly and weakly stating "Cowpaw its me.... Snakeheart. I-I know I look a tad off right now but I dont look that bad right?" The tom looked around at the other medicine cats gathered confused before focusing back on Cowpaw a puzzled expression on his face. "Right?!" Ok now he was perturbed Snakeheart placed a lot of importance on appearances and if he'd let his slip so far in his depression he was unrecognizable that was bad. So honed and focused by the sudden need to groom himself Snakeheart predictably ignored the thunderclan medicine cats and got to work setting himself back into order.


It wasnt to say he was totally better, he was clearly more listless then normal and while he was now putting in the bare minimum it did nothing to hide the dark bags and tear tracks branded into his fur. That would take time food and sleep, three things the medicine cat didnt have at the moment. Kestrelstar was gone. In a way that meant he had to step up yet again. (But when did that end. First Lionstorm retiring then Sootflare the traitor and Kestrelstar dead... when did him stepping up uncaring of his own current state end. Snakehearts heart hurt, this endless cycle only took from him.)


The Reedpaw came back and the tom was fighting back hopeless rage. She'd failed that much was clear once again and starclan wasnt that fitting. The apprentice who he'd chosen on starclans advisement couldnt talk with starclan. He'd chosen her for that, to do the one thing he couldnt in this role and..... No now wasnt the time for this the others were here and him and Reedpaw could talk about the future.


Voice still rough he explained "Generally the medicine cats talk for a time about how clan life is going, sharing techniques and news before going in to convene with starclan before parting ways. I already did some dreaming before you arrived as I wasnt sure you were going to show." A lie but who were they to call him on it. "And Reedpaw just finished herself though I wouldnt ask about it, dreams are generally kept secret for various reasons. But news... well Ill go first. Kestrelstar is dead, Id rather you hear it from me now. If you have anything bad to say about my brother I'd keep your maw shut however as I will not hold back if anyone tries to talk badly of him now." He didnt care if that made him like Frostpaw attacking during a medicine cat meeting, this was his brother they were talking about, he do worse then fight with claws for his sake.


Naiad Shade. x ghostie Nixey (I completely forgot bounce I am so so sorry this is what I get for doing posts half asleep Fletcher if you wanna join please do bounce can be fashionably late)

[Shade.]

Nixey
Naiad
x ghostie
Rani

Rosepaw was curiously but cautiously peering at the mark maw of the cave. She was a gloomy cat that didn't really see the good in situations most of the time. However, her keen intellect managed to shine through on occasion. She noticed Reedpaw coming out and nodded calmly at her greeting. She most certainly did not intend to exclude her just because of who her clan and mentor was.

She had been worrying about StarClan and such but the news from RiverClan surprised her. She hadn't known much about Kestrelstar except that he was apparently very against ThunderClan, at least for a time. She rolled her eyes, very covertly, as Snakeheart immediately started getting defensive. Yes, yes, we know you're a favoritism-obsessed jerk who refuses to look at things objectively, can we move on? Part of her hoped that, at least now that he was gone, the one that came after him would maybe hopefully not be so hellbent on making her life difficult.

She peered at the fascinating cave again and then looked back at Sundust. She assumed they had no news to report but she'd wait to hear what he'd say. She was anxious but intrigued by what would come after: meeting StarClan again.

[wolfie]

Nixey Naiad Shade. Rani Fletcher // i am so sorry this completely slipped my mind - i've been caught up in school stuff and sdjjfdsjfd
Oh. Oh, oh no.

Cowpaw whirled around as Sundust (assuming the small apprentice with him was Rosepaw, they were only possibility) spoke up - greeting him and ... his gaze flickered to the senior medicine cat who looked as bewildered as a bear. Heat flushed through his pelt at the reveal, his floppy ears lowering closer to his head.

Quickly shaking his head to reject Snakeheart's statement, offering a dip of his head in apologizes he shuffles away to stir in his own embarrassment. Reedpaw, he knows now, exits the cave and Cowpaw offers a shy smile to her. His feathery tail curls around him protectively and he feels awfully outnumbered at the moment. Maybe he should've asked Twilightstar to stay..

Cowpaw was quick to perk up as Snakeheart began to explain what they did actually do - this was something Cowpaw could do. Excited, actually, he was very interested in getting to know everyone! Even if uhm, it did seem a little tense? Gee, little may be .. just a bit of an understatement. He sits up, nodding along to what Snakeheart had to say with as much interest he could manage. Cowpaw needed to make up for his... misreading prior to this. Unfortunately, it's quickly lost because goodness gracious! He was not prepared for ... It did explain things.

"My... dearest respects... I am deeply sorrowed for your loss. I am... not sure what Windclan can possibly do but... do uhm, let me know..?" He gestures, his signs shaky because it feels... not enough but there isn't much one can say. Only offer support. Cowpaw shifts the weight to his other leg.

"Windclan is.. I believe we may have a... outbreak of.. whitecough? I am entirely unsure... but it is being.. handled, though,, all my thanks to uhm, Snakeheart..!" He signed, giving a nod towards the Riverclan's medicine cat. After all, he was the one who taught Cowpaw. "Besides... that.. we're alright..! I am currently... hoping to make a small.. " there's a pause in gestures while he reels over how to explain, "hidden storage ..? Only to put.. small toys in.. for any kits.. poor little ones, " He explained, a bit excitedly so - he was very happy with the idea. They just must be bored when they get cooped up and Cowpaw isn't one for conversation.

[Fletcher]

Nixey Naiad Shade. Rani x ghostie

Bounceberry, late as usual, managed to make his way out of Shadowclan without someone badgering him about something. He spotted the others from a bit further out, and grumbled to himself. New cats, it's always new cats, every one of them thought they were as important as the stars, he presumed.

He didn't care at this point, slinking over to take a silent seat next to Snakeheart, giving only a soft chuff as greeting, the tall tom basically towered over the others; especially those apprentices.

In terms of bulk...well...he could be doing better.

[beau]

Oh. That was why Snakeheart seemed so off. "I'm.. sorry for your loss. Kestrelstar was a good leader to Riverclan, the forest will miss him." Sundust didn't know the leader very well, but he felt any death deserved to be mourned. Thunderclan and Riverclan has their differences, but he could respect the former leader's drive to provide the best for Riverclan.

Cowpaw went next. Sundust was still getting used to the young tom's curious habit of speaking through movements, but they were easy enough to understand usually. A storage for toys? That was an interesting idea. If Thunderclan had more kits, he might look into doing the same, but the kit population was at a surprisingly manageable level, and the kits they had seemed to be awfully boring considering they never needed to come to the medicine cat. Of course, he didn't want a kit to get injured, but it was normal to have a few scrapes and bumps in kithood.

Quiet pawsteps caught the Thunderclan medicine cat's attention, and he glanced over he shoulder to see a tall figure coming to join the group. Ah, so this must be the ever elusive Shadowclan medicine cat. He flicked his ear to greet the new tom before beginning Thunderclan's news.

"Thunderclan doesn't have very much going on. All injuries and illnesses have been manageable. Dawnstar is still in Thunderclan, along with a few Shadowclan cats. I'm thankful to have Ebonyfang present, though; he's been a great help in teaching and assisting me and Rosepaw." He concluded with a nod of his head, and wrapped his tail over his paws.

Shade. Rani Nixey Fletcher x ghostie

[Nixey]

Quite honestly Reedpaw couldn’t even look at Snakeheart, fearing the expression she may be met with had she turned to look at him. Instead she simply listened along to what he was saying, ears flickering with each word that left his muzzle. It was good that Snakeheart was explaining to the others how to do this. She knew he didn’t like Thunderclan, and for reasons that she could understand, but that didn’t mean he should withhold information like that. However as Kestrelstar’s death was mentioned Reedpaw felt a stir in her little head, ears angled towards Snakeheart as she thought on the leader.

She had always been told to never speak ill of the dead, but that didn’t mean Reedpaw couldn’t have her thoughts on the late leader. Honestly he had terrified her, and some part of Reedpaw was glad she hadn’t been able to communicate with him because that meant she didn’t have to come face to face with the former leader of Riverclan. However another part of her was cursing at herself for not being able to do so. She had failed Snakeheart, did that mean she had failed others too? Taking in a deep breath to try and steady herself, Reedpaw attempted to focus her thoughts here and now instead.

Then she turned her gaze to Cowpaw, who seemed to be going next with talking—or more so gesturing—about Windclan. The outbreak of Whitecough scared Reedpaw just a bit, considering she had never had to deal with an outbreak of any kind. The idea of having to help those suffering and keep the spread down as much as possible seemed like a lot. Though the idea of making a small storage of toys for kits seemed like a good idea, and Reedpaw couldn’t help but smile at it. Keeping the younger ones entertained rather than letting them focus on the fact of where they were was great.

Then the Shadowclan medicine cat appeared, and Reedpaw offered him a smile with a dip of her head. The first time she met him had been at her first gathering as a medicine cat apprentice, yet she had gotten nowhere close in size to him and therefore Bounceberry seemed a bit intimidating. Staying out of his way seemed to be the best option. She didn’t doubt he was better than most of the other Shadowclanners, but still. Always better to be safe than sorry.

Turning her attention to Sundust, she listened as the tom explained. She couldn’t help but cringe slightly when the mention of Dawnstar still being in Thunderclan came and went. Reedpaw couldn’t imagine that molly taking hold of Riverclan, digging herself into the middle of their business. She seemed terrifying enough as is, but having to constantly glance over her shoulder to make sure she wasn’t there, listening, seemed like something Reedpaw couldn’t survive. Though at the mention of a cat helping Rosepaw and Sundust, a smile appeared yet again.

Naiad | Rani | Shade. | x ghostie | Fletcher

[taillow]

Cindersky
With the moon rising higher into the night air, Cindersky knew it was about time to get on with it. Her heart still beat nervously in her chest as her paws crested the slope that led downwards into the mouth of the mountain. Just ahead of her the whispers of the Starcave seemed to brush against her ears. Murmurs of cats that had come before were almost tangible on the breeze as she took a quick breath to steady herself.

"Thank you, for coming with me. And for standing for a changed ThunderClan. We all owe you monumentally, and I know that ThunderClan will be a glorious Clan once more because we have you as its medicine cat." Her gaze remained on Sundust, a warmth radiating from it. Memories of training the younger tom throughout his apprenticeship resurfaced in fondness.

Another breath was drawn in as Cindersky rolled her shoulders back, shaking her paws out lightly. The path begin to dip and lead into the Starcave, darkness enveloping her and her companion. Her eyes tried to squint ahead, the walls tightening in around her so that he had to step out in front of Sundust to avoid squishing up against him. With the closeless of the walls, Cindersky could practically hear her heartbeat in her ears as the blood roared in the background. Nerves were settling in now.

It seemed as if the darkness would never end, until Cindersky felt the tunnel widen and shimmering light flickered into view. All at once it swathed around her, causing a quick intake of air as it left her breathless. Before her, shimmering in all the glory that she had heard stories about, was the stone. Marveled for its gifted properties of allowing the Clans to communicate with StarClan, it certainly held up to the standards that Cindersky had.

"It is beautiful..." Her voice was soft as she stared wide-eyed, a kit-like wonder coming over her as she observed every little detail she could. Perhaps one of the most beautiful sights she had ever seen. "I press my nose to it, correct?" Inquisitive eyes turned towards Sundust as she awaited instruction from the medicine cat. After all, he had been here before.

[ Naiad ]

[beau]

It had been an easy journey, thankfully. It seemed they encountered no other clans on their way. Sundust was worried he wouldn't even be able to recall where the Starcave was, so he was grateful to not have any other stressors.

He paused briefly at the peak of the hill which dipped downwards into the earth. It was still as breathtaking as the first time he had visited here, and now he would finally get to enter that oh-so-mysterious cave. How wonderful. His peach-hued eyes flicked to the ground, observing the little dips and grooves that had been worn into the rocks by countless cats seeking out the cave over thousands of moons, all of them searching for their ancestors' guidance, or grace, or blessing. He felt a chill run down his spine.

The ginger tom's ear twitched as Cindersky began speaking, his gaze shifting to meet hers. "Of course, I am honored to be here to witness such a ceremony. Thank you for taking the helm of Thunderclan; I'm sure you will steer us to great places." The medicine cat exhaled slowly and began walking towards the the mouth of the cave, just a pawstep behind his former mentor.

It was only a few steps in that he became enclosed by the thick darkness of the cave. The smell was damp and sweet, but seemed to carry an almost nostalgic aura with it. For a moment it was just the two of them in nothing, and the sound of their breathing, the most peaceful moment Sundust had enjoyed in moon by far. The tunnel narrowed, and the large tom took a step back to allow Cindersky to stay in the lead. The stone ceiling grazed the top of his ears as they continued further and further.

He began to wonder how deep this could go. Who was the cat who thought to venture this deep in the first place? It was a wise decision for sure, seeing as it led to the discovery of the Starcave, but what compelled them to make the initial journey? He did not have much time to continue pondering these thoughts, as the tunnel suddenly widened, and a soft gleam could be seen around the corner.

Sundust held his breath as they rounded the corner. Suddenly, there was a brilliant light, so bright that he would have closed his eyes had he not been too amazed to shut them. What was quite possibly the most beautiful stone in existence lay before them, twinkling. It felt alive to the medicine cat, seeming almost patiently amused by their wonder in the way it glittered. Seeming like it had been waiting for them. Sundust finally tore his gaze away from the Majesty as Cindersky began speaking once more. "It is... it's beautiful." He couldn't find any other words to describe the rock. "Yes, I believe you touch your nose to it and close your eyes."

Now his heart was beating, excitement akin to a kit's filling him from ears to tail-tip. A sort of giddy thrill. "You'll tell me what happens, won't you?" By stars, he almost sounded like an apprentice again in his shy curiosity, but it was a genuine plea for knowledge. He hadn't a clue what happened, and had only seen Starclan once. He wondered if Cindersky would see that same clearing that he had met Cricketpaw in, or if somewhere else in those infinite fields lay her nine lives.

marni

[taillow]

Cindersky
It was easy to see the excitement radiate from her former apprentice. Her whiskers twitched in amusement at the sight and she reached forward, stretching her neck to briefly touch her nose to his cheek in a sign of gratitude. "Of course. You and Rosepaw will both hear everything."

Cindersky stepped back from Sundust and gave one last nod before turning to look at the stone. Her blue eyes reflected the glimmer that shone off of it as she moved closer towards it. It felt like it was calling her, as if the stone somehow knew that she would be traveling here tonight. Once more, she recalled a thought that had started as a fleeting recollecting, but had since turned into a more solid form upon arriving. There was no turning back now.

Gingerly the senior warrior crouching down near the stone and pressed her nose against it, her eyes fluttering closed shortly after.

Emerging into the dream, the first thing Cindersky saw was darkness. All around her, as far as her eyes could see. An eerie and empty void that both ignited and stilled her heart. Blue eyes searched around for any signs of light, or stars, or something to indicate the beginning of a dream. What once was quiet though, began to dissolve into inaudible whispers that tickled her ears and drew her attention. Her paws began to move forward with her telling them to, and Cindersky turned to focus her gaze onto the scene ahead of her.

There, just beyond a small rise, was an opening. Glittering light poured through providing a star contrast to the void she was currently in. A large, grassy field dotted with large willow trees, ones that reminded her of ThunderClan. Their branches swayed in the breeze and even from here Cindersky knew what the place. She knew what lay there, the destination her paws were taking her.

She would not be going there tonight.

Just before she reached the scene Cindersky turned, forcing herself to disengage from the comforting lull in favor of facing the darkness once more. A sort of confidence settled into her gaze as she stood, unmoving, and soon enough the opening in the void began to close, leaving her once more in complete and total darkness.

"I am not here for my lives! I am just here to talk." The sound of her heart thumping heavily in her chest felt like the loudest noise Cindersky had ever heard. Despite its race, she felt an odd calm settle over her. She had not disclosed her plans coming here to anyone, not even Sundust himself. If her former apprentice had known, he would have talked her out of it, told her that ThunderClan needed a strong leader. And that.. she would be. But there was a lot to prove first, Cindersky was not naïve enough to deny that.

For now she simply waited, her eyes scanning the depths of the darkness as she awaited the face she knew would arrive. However angry StarClan was, Cindersky would wait here all night for one of them to arrive if she had to.

[ Naiad JAE. ]

[BEAR.]

"It's the same damn thing with all of you, isn't it."

Brokenstar was tired of this song and dance. Over and over, bright-eyed cats proclaiming themselves to be the future ThunderClan needed, only to become the reality they deserved. A Clan constantly hindered by the disinterest of those within, a lack of motivation and ambition.

As he stepped out in front of Cindersky, his expression held a worn neutrality. In another universe, this would not be an ideal confrontation. In this one, it was necessary. "Here you come, with a false promise on your tongue like the rest. I will not hear it, Cindersky. Your predecessors have abused the lives they were gifted, burned through them faster than the fire that directly destroyed our Clan. Some might act as if I'm being harsh, but when that is a major defining moment of your reign - you have nothing redeemable to show for it."

Duskstar, Buckstar, Eveningstar, Aspenstar. They were all the same. Flintstar held promise once, but his spark diminished through poor choices near the end of his leadership. Passionstar was hardly memorable. To Brokenstar, only Snowstar held a place of respect within his mind - and she had her own faults.

"Talk if you will, but understand no ceremony was in place for you tonight. Nor is it planned for any future leader: ThunderClan lost StarClan's grace when your Clan continually chose to ignore our warnings, and blamed us for the misfortunes that have fallen upon you." Did they think StarClan wouldn't notice?

No, they did. And Brokenstar was irked by their willful ignorance.

[ marni ]

[taillow]

Cindersky
Just as she figured it would be, the figure who approached held quite a bit of animosity. As he should, for seeing yet another ThunderClan leader appear from the midst and having the audacity to touch their nose to the stone most definitely rubbed the fur of StarClan the wrong way. For too long ThunderClan leadership had forsaken their ancestors, and for it their entire Clan had suffered.

Cindersky was not naïve enough to believe that just because she and a few others had spent the last pawful of moons trying to turn that around, that suddenly all would be forgiven. That would only be done in time, and not enough of it had passed.

She watched the tom for a moment, unfamiliar with who he was but knowing somewhere that he was of ThunderClan. His stance, the respect his mere presence commanded. It reminded her of the golden days her mother and father had spoken of when she was just a kit in the nursery. Stories of an age where ThunderClan was revered, viewed as a powerhouse of the forest.

"I come with nothing but an apology." Her voice remained steady as she spoke, blue eyes unwilling to dart away for even a second. The line of leaders scared of their own shadow would end with her, and with Sparrowflight. "ThunderClan has fallen far from what we used to be; all that is left of the stories of how great we once were is the breath on the elders who still recall them." Ridgeclaw. Perhaps he might know who stood before her? It felt shameful to not recall such an integral part of the history of the Clan she loved so much.

He was giving her a chance to talk, and perhaps he was attempting to bait her into providing false statements and a narrative that Cindersky would be different. That she would succeed where others had failed. But the senior warrior had no intention of providing words that would just be dismissed, so instead she just lifted her chin a little and continued to watch the StarClan cat before her.

"I do not wish to take on the lives of a leader. I am here to acknowledge the faults of those who came before me. To stand up and understand that ThunderClan is not worthy anymore of the grace StarClan can provide." A flash in her gaze as a question came to mind, but shortly it was pushed down; now was not the time for her own personal queries. Soon enough it was gone and replace by a fiery confidence that had aided her fluttering nerve. "I take blame in the way ThunderClan has fallen, as should every warrior among our ranks. The inaction of those who have lead us in the past did nothing except lay ruin to our Clan, and the cats who vowed to protect their home stood by and did nothing."

It was a harsh reality to understand, taking accountability for the actions - or inactions - of others. But Cindersky understood leadership to be just that. ThunderClan was wrong on many counts, and their inaction had caused ripple effects that spread beyond just their own Clan. As much as RiverClan had done wrong, so too had ThunderClan. Just as ShadowClan had done wrong, so too had ThunderClan.

Cindersky knew in her heart, that she would strive to restore glory to ThunderClan, she knew it to be what she was called to do.

With a soft sigh, her gaze diverted to the ever expanding darkness around them. Whatever this place was, it was not StarClan she knew that much. "I hope one day, we can be worthy of it again. But I have no intention of speaking words to you that hold no weight, no meaning behind them yet." As her eyes drifted back down Brokenstar, the only emotion that remained clear across her expression was determination.

[ JAE. ]

[BEAR.]

ThunderClan had a poor track record when it came to speaking with Brokenstar. When Cindersky begun to talk, he anticipated much of what he'd heard in the past. Empty words behind optimistic eyes, no sense of true accountability. But she apologized.

She apologized. And not only that, but it seemed genuine.

There was no hiding the surprise that flashed across his face. This was definitely a first from would-be-leaders, and he set his jaw tightly. "Don't sell your history that short. You were in the presence of a leader and deputy duo who fought for ThunderClan's worth, despite the flaws that burdened them." Snowstar and Passionblaze, before they crumbled into dust. "But ThunderClan would rather forget the efforts carved in blood, and pretend life is all sunshine and rainbows as they fall into a passivity befitting of only kittypets."

This was not to say ThunderClan needed to be warmongering, but a willingness to stand up for what they believed in was invaluable. Snowstar fought for justice when a warrior was murdered. Passionblaze was hot-headed when it was needed, pushing the Clan into conflict that only served to make warriors feel alive. If too much time passed between battles, cats grew soft and lazy. Staying out of problems was a huge downfall for ThunderClan.

He would be lying if he said the Cove wasn't a step in the right direction. He personally perceived it to be - though, Brokenstar wasn't sure if this was worth voicing to a cat who might be dead within a few moons. Leader retainment and ThunderClan were not known to be on the same page. And yet..

A sigh, a release of built up tension in his muscles. He didn't know what to do with these cats anymore. He had tried to be kind, to be pleading-- to desperately get through to them they needed to change. To be harsh, to get them to wake the hell up. Nothing ever seemed to work. Revoking life privileges was his last ditch effort to force them to be self-reliant. Beyond the apology, at least this seemed to be something Cindersky understood without him beating it into her.

"Your apology is a first in many lifetimes, and it has been noted." Not accepted, nor forgiven. But recognized as a step forward. Brokenstar wasn't going to act like he had much faith in the Clan - he'd seen so many cats fail at this point, it was honestly sickening. What happened to his Clan? Where did the fire in the kids he raised go?

How far did ThunderClan have to fall for his curse to be lifted? For the damage sewn by his son to be healed? Did these talks hold any weight, or was it just perpetuating the core problem within ThunderClan?

Questions with answers he did not know, and would never. "You need to stop with the hoping. ThunderClan cannot flourish on dreams, it needs action and the will to do whatever is necessary to survive. For so long, the Clan has scraped by while being kicked around by others. It lacks a backbone, but with the right guidance it can grow one." And it was, but not enough of one. "I'm not going to disregard the efforts already put into the Clan, by you, Sparrowflight, others. But maintaining a Clan takes time and energy, it requires making tough choices - even if you don't want to, even if it goes against every fiber of your being. The Clan must always go first."

This was his warning to her, cautionary advisement for her to play with in the coming seasons. "Heed my words or not: grace can only be obtained through growth. Prove ThunderClan can maintain stability over time." He didn't care how it was done, just that it was. A Clan that burned through ranks and lives was not something StarClan would be endorsing. (Not anymore.)

[ marni ]

[taillow]

Cindersky
She was not sure what her statement of rejecting the lives would do, nor the apology, but the surprise that flickered into the expression of the StarClan cat before her stilled her doubts more. Cindersky was willing to wager that none of the leaders who had come before had done such a thing - to acknowledge the faults of their Clan and their predecessors. But she was no longer blinded by loyalty and love, and instead able to look at the former ThunderClan leaders through objective lenses.

Snowstar. She faintly recalled the strong she-cat, though it had been when she was young. Passionstar she remembered more clearly, having fought in her first battle as a warrior underneath him. Back then, ThunderClan had stepped up to not only defend themselves but other Clans in need as well. That was a glorious ThunderClan, and the one of modern days was unable to hold even the smallest flame to it.

Cindersky had not been expecting her apology to be accepted, nor had she figured the actions of late would even start to make up for the inaction of the past. She only dipped her head in recognition of this, not bothering to argue points of fact. "The Clan will always come first." she repeated, keeping her gaze steady on him. "We will grow, and I will take your advice in every stride of my leadership." A certain conviction swept her heart now, a blaze set in her eyes. "I want thank you for speaking with me. Your words - they will not go unheard. Not this time."

So many had failed before her, and so many perhaps had been nervous to take the reigns of a Clan that was, to them, far past saving. But Cindersky held no hesitation in her heart. There was no doubt, there was no worry that she would not do right by StarClan; because she could not. Now, there was only the firm belief that with her, and with Sparrowflight, the fate of ThunderClan would finally change.

[ JAE. ]

[BEAR.]

She was determined, he'd give her that.

Unfortunately, so were all the other ones Brokenstar spoke to. "We'll see." It was not to be discouraging, but he wasn't going to get his hopes up after all this time. All he had wanted, for many moons, was to see ThunderClan succeed.

Maybe Cindersky would be the change the Clan needed. Or perhaps she would crack under the weight of the world, as Duskfeather, Buckbranch, Eveningmist, and Aspenstrike all once did. It would be unfair to compare them all directly, though to Brokenstar he felt a similarity between her and the former. Duskfeather was once strong-willed and dedicated, now reduced to rubble.. a shadow of her former self.

Only time would tell if Cindersky would follow in these pawsteps laid before her, or if she would disembark onto an unbeaten path.

"Now, unless there's more you want to discuss, I think it would be best for you to return to your Clan. Tell them what you will." He didn't care how she approached it: if she damned StarClan or not, what mattered is she would need to be smart about her plans for the future. If she wanted to survive as a leader, that was.

[ marni ]

[taillow]

Cindersky - star(?)
There were thoughts behind his eyes that, while Cindersky wished to know, she knew she never would understand. At least not until she had more experience of being a leader. She knew him not by name, but it was clear by now that he was some sort of former ThunderClan leader. Something about the way he carried himself, the passion he held.

She had a distinct, strong urge to not let him down.

"Thank you." With that, she nodded her head and allowed her eyes to close, the last bit of the dream still lingering in her mind.

-

Soon enough, Cindersky - or, perhaps it was star now, if only to keep up appearances - opened her eyes once more, the brilliance of the stone meeting her gaze. She wondered how long she had been asleep - and if it would be long enough to constitute a life ceremony. She had not yet decided if she would tell Sundust - at least not right away. Tonight had been... a lot, and she needed time to digest the words spoken to her and figure out her plan of action.

After a moment of silent, she rose to her paws and turned to look for Sundust. "I believe it is about high time we return to the Clan," she murmured as her gaze found him. Then, after a moment (and if only to hold off any questions for now), she added, "I spoke with StarClan. All is well."

Perhaps at a later time, she would confide in Sundust about what had truly transpired. But for now, she simply wished to return to her nest and address the Clan for the first time since visiting the Starcave.

[ Naiad ]

[MockingRabbit]

Rabbiteye padded into the cave and walked on for a bit. Now that he thought about it, he didn't know what he was supposed to do. He continued on, crouching low. He finally squeezed into an opening. He gazed around. There was a stone in the middle. He remembered the medicine cats saying it was supposed to glow in the moonlight.


"I hope it will still work in the day," he murmured then padded forward to touch his nose to it


//@spirit free sorry it took so long, got distracted

[SpiritWolf_yt]

Scalepaw watched his mentor seeing the chrystal his eyes glimmard" woah" he says then hiding knowing he said it a bit loud, his ear went back but he keeps watching
Rabbiteye

[MockingRabbit]

Scalepaw watched his mentor seeing the chrystal his eyes glimmard" woah" he says then hiding knowing he said it a bit loud, his ear went back but he keeps watching
@Rabbiteye (https://warriorcatsonline.com/forums/member.php?u=16523)
//I kinda feel like I'm not supposed to be here lol
Rabbiteye closed his eyes, preparing to visit StarClan, when he heard a mew. He swiveled his head around, his dark blue eyes flicked from shadow to shadow, looking for the speaker. "Hello?" he asked.

[SpiritWolf_yt]

Scalepaw made no noise or movement, he kept quiet and backed up very quietly

Rabbiteye

[MockingRabbit]

Scalepaw made no noise or movement, he kept quiet and backed up very quietly

@Rabbiteye (https://warriorcatsonline.com/forums/member.php?u=16523)
Rabbiteye shrugged and turned back to the stone. It was just his nerves getting to him. He crouched down, closed his eyes and touched his nose to the stone. Nothing happened. He pushed harder.
"Why is it not working?" he wailed, "Yellowpelt, please!"
He shoved his nose on it again. Still nothing happened. He backed away. If the stupid stone would not work, then it was of no use to him. He raised a paw, claws unsheathed to it.

[SpiritWolf_yt]

Scalepaw tilted his head" who's lemmonpelt?" he asks himself quietly, he runs off into the bush to stay hidden
Rabbiteye

[MockingRabbit]

scalepaw tilted his head confused who his mentor was talking to, he stayed hidden as he listens to the words of his mentor

[yup i remember :D] @Rabbiteye (https://warriorcatsonline.com/forums/member.php?u=16523)
Rabbiteye slumped to the ground and cried. Cried all the longing and sadness, all his grief and woe, out onto the cold hard ground of the star cave

[SpiritWolf_yt]

Scalepaw ears went back, he then started to walk out, as he was almost out he accidently hits the rock towards the wall making a big noise he ran out into the forest but went the wrong way to camp,
Rabbiteye \\gonna post this now in twoleg area]//

[MockingRabbit]

Scalepaw ears went back, he then started to walk out, as he was almost out he accidently hits the rock towards the wall making a big noise he ran out into the forest but went the wrong way to camp,
@Rabbiteye (https://warriorcatsonline.com/forums/member.php?u=16523) \\gonna post this now in twoleg area]//
Rabbiteye lifted his head at the sound of paws scuffing the ground and a rock clattering against the wall. He heaved himself to his paws and went to investigate. He sniffed the rock. He regognised the scent but it took him a few heartbeats to recognise it. "Scalepaw," he growled
//Can you mention me there?

[SpiritWolf_yt]

[sure!] Rabbiteye

[Captain]

SNOWLEAP
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

➣ Watching the young molly bid farewell to Beansprout, the tall dark-furred leader could only smile at the two of them, hoping he was making all the right choices with this. He wasn’t perfect and never would be. His mother had always made sure to remind him of that growing up. However, Snowleap did want to do the right thing and make the best choices for RiverClan. He could only hope that his judgment of what was right and wrong was enough for his clan. Thankfully, they weren’t left alone with these kinds of thoughts for long as Fawnpaw soon turned to him, giving the oriental longhair a firm nod and said that she was ready to go. Good. Then there was no time to waste. Snowleap smiled warmly and returned the nod before allowing his gaze to rest at the camp’s entrance. From there, he began to walk, gesturing for the young medicine cat to follow him as the two of them pushed through the tall reeds that made up the camp’s entrance.

Once Fawnpaw and Snowleap were outside of camp, given the well wishes of various clanmates, the RiverClan tomcat took in a deep breath and then slowly exhaled, trying to remain more excited rather than anxious. He had never been to the Starcave, but neither had the brown she-cat beside him, so it was a new experience for both of them to discover together. The night was in full swing now with no other light to guide them but stars, moonlight and the occasional firefly that crossed their path. He didn’t know the exact way to this special cave, but somewhere in his soul, he felt like StarClan — like Dustymoth — was guiding him. Snowleap raised his nose to look up at the bright stars, all which seemed to shimmer and sparkle in a certain pattern. Maybe it was just a conscience though. At that point, he glanced at Fawnpaw, wondering what to say to the kind-hearted apprentice. “I… I’m sorry that all of this was sprung onto you so abruptly.” He meowed, finally breaking the silence between them, “I should have talked to you in private instead of just telling the whole clan first. It was… very self-centered of me and I apologize.” His words were hesitant as he struggled to say what he felt, but he was genuine.

“All of this is new to me and I’m sure I’ve messed up countless times already.” Snowleap remarked with a light chuckle and shrug of his shoulders, “But I do believe that you are capable of being a great medicine cat. You are smart, friendly, caring, and hard-working too. StarClan surely thinks the same, choosing you.” Words began to flow naturally as the conversation continued, speaking from the heart as he kept his eye fixed on the path ahead of them. “When I was sent the omen, I heard the voice of a dear old friend of mine. His name was Dustymoth. He went to join StarClan moons before you were born. But knowing him, I trust in his choice. I know I’m no medicine cat and I cannot help you learn how to use herbs, but I hope you know that I will always be here for you. All of RiverClan believes in you, even if they all act like utter minnow-brains at times.” Snowleap wished he could be so much better at comforting other cats, but at least his words were not faked or forced. He was trying his best.

⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

( marni - small little snowfawn rp before starting the lives ceremony ♥ )

[taillow]

Fawnpaw
Leaving the safety of the camp walls and stepping out onto territory that was still new to Fawnpaw offered up a worthy distraction to all of the turmoil she felt inside her mind. Blue eyes gazed around in wonder as the trees appeared to thin to reveal more of the starlit sky. And it was magnificent; millions of little twinkling lights called to her, almost as if her paws were moving subconsciously along the path that in her heart she knew would take them both to the Starcave. Her mouth hung open in awe as she took everything in - the sights, the sounds, the smells. A tiny little firefly danced across her path, hovering briefly in front of Fawnpaw before flying off again. She smiled softly, watching it go with round blue eyes.

Being so entranced by the stars, she was surprised to hear Snowleap speak. All at once the wonder of the night sky shattered and she was left once again with the sour thoughts. Bringing her blue gaze back down to rest on the soon to be leader, Fawnpaw listened carefully. He was apologizing... and she wanted to tell him there was nothing to apologize for. If anything, she should be the one apologizing. "It's alright, Mr. Snowleap. You don't have to apologize." Her voice was soft, a little bit more so than usual. "I guess... I was just surprised. Why did StarClan choose... me? I don't... I don't know anything." Bits of the same despair she felt leaked out into her words and she had to avert her gaze to the ground to avoid revealing the true depth it went to in her eyes.

The tall tom continued, and it took everything Fawnpaw had to not cry. Her heart felt like it was breaking in her chest. Jagged pieces pierced her chest and threatened to rip her apart from the inside, and she had to suck in a quick breath to steady herself. Hot, sticky tears were forming at the back of her gaze as she lifted it to observe the pathway they were still walking. There was no use trying to stop the small tremors that rippled down her spine, and she just had to hope that Snowleap wouldn't ask about them.

All her life, she had wanted to desperately to hear these words. To drink up any and all affection granted to her. Smart. Friendly. Caring. Hard-working. Was she really all of these things, despite the storm she felt within her heart? Despite the... the jealousy that oozed into every open space in her mind? Because she didn't feel like she was any of those things, not when she wanted so desperately to be apart of a family like Snowleap was. Like Birdpaw was. Like Lynxfall and Shadepaw were. And she hated how it felt like poison on her tongue, leaving a bitter taste and a heart tainted with hatred - stars, the physical pain it brought along just thinking about it almost knocked her off of her paws.

If cats knew the truth, they would surely turn their backs on her. She was not fit to be any Clan's medicine cat, let alone RiverClan's. Not with such a dark and dim mindset. But she... she was trying. Desperately, to plug up the holes and to let the light back in. Trying to ignore how Daystripe was still gone. How her father had left. How her siblings had all left. How she really didn't have anyone to call family...

It was then that Fawnpaw realized her claws had come out, and the soil beneath her and behind her path had been torn up. Dampness was felt on her cheeks and she ducked her head down to wipe at the tears and clear any evidence of the hurricane of emotions within her mind, drawing her claws back into their sheaths as well.

She had also been quiet for way too long - long enough to where there was no tree cover anymore and in the distance unfamiliar rocky territory. "S-Sorry Mr. Snowleap," she replied, hating how squeaky her voice sounded. Her throat felt tight and her whiskers quivered as she took a few quick breaths to calm down. The black dots, the tingling in her paws... she couldn't have that happen here.

"...I appreciate it. I just don't want to let anyone down." Her voice was still high, but softer and quieter than before. "I don't want to let my Clanmates down, or... or you. You've been so nice and kind... and I just don't want you to be disappointed in me." Finally, after a long moment, Fawnpaw raised her eyes to look towards Snowleap cautiously. All of the anguish she felt from everything that had happened over the course of the past couple days was evident in her blue gaze, and another tremor passed through her.

She couldn't do this. She couldn't fall apart and let down the cats in RiverClan who did believe in her. But everything... it felt like a lot. And it was hard to carry. A couple more tears slid down her face in silence as Fawnpaw drew in another shaky breath. "I'm s-sorry Mr. Snowleap. I know you have other things to worry about, and that I need to be strong now for the Clan. I..."

With her throat feeling constricted at that moment she turned her head away to look over at the area before them. Was that it? Doing her best to swallow her anxiety, she nodded towards it. "I think we're-" she began before her voice disappeared once again and a tiny squeak came from her instead. Fawnpaw winced and instead drew a paw up to point forward, as if to finish what she had been trying to say.

[ zenosaurus ]

[Captain]

SNOWLEAP
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

➣ Hearing the small molly’s voice, his tall ears twitched to her softened words. “I ask myself the same thing sometimes for my own path. Why did Kestrelstar make me a shield? Why did Skystar make me a deputy? Why am I becoming the leader of RiverClan so soon?” Snowleap shook his head solemnly and sighed, “In a way, I know exactly how you feel, Fawnpaw. I suppose you have more of an excuse than I do though. I had more time to prepare for this, yet I still feel like I don’t know anything about being a clan leader.” There were so many struggling emotions edging the young medicine cat’s tone and the dark-furred oriental wished that she would have been given a mentor, at least, who could teach her about herbs and reassure her fears. He knew very little about healing and that was no secret, only knowing what he had seen Snakeheart do for him in the past. “I think all we can do is try to remain positive and be the best cat we can be with what we got, you know?” Maybe that didn’t make too much sense. “One pawstep at a time.” He remarked, allowing himself to remain hopeful. Perhaps it would offer the young she-cat some much-needed relief.

After that, Fawnpaw was silent for a long time. He didn’t press her for a response nor question why she was acting this way. It wasn’t his place to do so. Snowleap kept his gaze ahead and allowed her to process her thoughts, emotions too, at her own pace. Who knew what went through the young apprentice’s head now? So many things, no doubt. The best thing that the RiverClan leader could do for her was offer patience and a shoulder to cry on — if she ever wanted that from him, of course. Eventually, she apologized for the long bit of silence, her tone squeaky and on the verge of breaking. “You don’t have to apologize,” Snowleap reassured her, casting one thoughtful glance in her direction. He waited ever so patiently as she started to speak more as they walked along through the unfamiliar territory. The tall tomcat nodded to her words, hearing Fawnpaw’s shaking breath, but not drawing any attention to it. He had a feeling that she was now crying, from the little movements she made beside him, but Snowleap knew there was no shame in doing so. It was perfectly fine for a response, especially after everything that had happened today. Hopefully, Starclan would grant the poor apprentice a well-deserved break soon.

Then, something seemed to catch the brown-furred molly’s attention and the RiverClan tomcat saw her raise a paw to point forward. He looked ahead and saw the area laid out in front of them. It was a cave, from what he could tell, most likely the cave that they were both looking for: The Starcave. The entrance reminded him strangely of a beast’s maw with its jaws stretched open, waiting for the two of them to step inside. However, at that moment, Snowleap stood still, staring for a few seconds before turning to Fawnpaw. “You will never disappoint me.” He said, his voice firm, but showing care at the same time, “I want you to know that. We all make mistakes and I will never expect you to be perfect. And I don’t expect you to be strong. I expect you to be, well, you! I want you to be Fawnpaw. The same Fawnpaw I’ve known for several moons now.” The oriental longhair stepped closer to her and rested his chin on her head. “I’m already so proud of you for how far you’ve come.” It was a gentle whisper, but enough that the small molly could hear him. He pulled away a few seconds later and flashed her a smile before looking back to the ominous entrance of the Starcave.

⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

( marni - my next post will begin the lives ceremony ♥ )

[taillow]

Fawnpaw
There was a comfort in knowing that Snowleap had the same worried and anxieties she did. How he had the same loop of thoughts of "what if's" circling his head when he had first been placed into a rank of power. She wasn't sure who Kestrelstar was, but with context clues she figured they must have been an old RiverClan leader. If she wasn't so lost within her own mind and there wasn't a ceremony before them, Fawnpaw would've asked to hear more.

Waves of doubt still lapped at her paws, but between the glance given to her by the soon-to-be leader and the soft by firm words he spoke, Fawnpaw sniffled once and looked back at him. She wanted to believe him, she really, truly did. Maybe one day she would, and there would be no reason to feign understanding of what he spoke of. She would be able to confidently believe in herself as well. At first she had thought, during the meeting, that she was just too much herself, but here Snowleap was, telling her differently.

Stifling the rising jealousy, Fawnpaw nodded and smiled. She didn't trust her voice just yet, instead allowing her eyes to speak for her. They flooded with gratitude and appreciation, knowing that Snowleap might not know just how much they meant to hear. He was proud of her... Snowleap, a cat she had looked up to since her days as a kit in the nursery... Overcome with emotion and momentarily blinded by her admiration for the tall tom Fawnpaw surged forward and wrapped both of her arms as tight as she could around the leader's neck. Her face burrowed its way into his fur as the last few tears fell over. In that moment it didn't matter what her mind was trying to convince her of, and it didn't matter the frustration she had felt at her own emotions.

"Thank you, Mr. Snowleap." Her words were soft and muffled a bit, and she gave the hug a little squeeze. Stars, she felt as though she could live in the safety the hug provided. Eventually though, she pulled away and within her gaze there was a small light again accompanied by a gentle smile. She could do this. She had to.

Now was the time to prove it. Wiping away any freefalling tears Fawnpaw looked back towards the cave. It was huge and dark, but something about it was alluring and seemed to almost be whispering to her. Somewhere in her gut she knew it was her duty to lead Snowleap down into the cave, and the young medicine cat would do just that. "Okay. Let's go. I think StarClan is waiting for you."

With that - and on much steadier paws - Fawnpaw padded slowly up to the cavern's mouth, taking a moment to peer inside. Even though her eyes had adjusted to the night surroundings, there was no way she'd be able to see through there. But she knew that inside was the source of the whispers she could hear. She wondered, briefly, if Snowleap heard them too. Delicately placing her paws inside, she led the way through the narrow tunnel, each step offering her a semblance of peace and serenity.

After a few tail-lengths of darkness a glittering light appeared ahead until finally, Fawnpaw emerged into the cave and was met with one of the most beautiful sights she had ever seen; a huge shiny rock glittered in the middle, but it didn't appear gray or silver like normal rocks. This one was all white, illuminated by the moonlight pouring in through a hole in the roof of the cave. Its dazzling appearance reflected in her blue eyes as she came to stand at the base of it, and all at once Fawnpaw felt safe. Once having thought RiverClan to be her home, the young medicine cat knew now that this was more than that. The whispers seemed to grow louder in her ears, and for the first time in her life... she felt genuine familial love. It was similar to the same emotion she had around several warriors of the Clan, but also different. It transcended everything and reached down to her very core, speaking to her heart as if it was finally returning to where it belonged.

Looking over to where Snowleap had hopefully followed her, Fawnpaw smiled. Her face appeared much more serene and calm, and there was a certain knowledge to her eye. "I'm not sure, but... I think StarClan wants me to join you." It was just them in the cave, but still Fawnpaw didn't speak much louder than just above a whisper. Turning her head back to the glittering rock, Fawnpaw settled into a lying position in front of it as she awaited Snowleap to join her. This was it. Despite her hammering heart, she felt oddly at ease as she reached forward, aiming to touch her nose to the rock at the same time as Snowleap.

[ zenosaurus - I'll leave the actual dreamscape description up to you to kick off the lives ceremony! :heartbounce: ]

[Captain]

SNOWLEAP
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

➣ Before the tall RiverClan tomcat could even think another thought, young Fawnpaw rushed over to him and wrapped her small arms around Snowleap, embracing him in a tight hug as she buried her face into his fluffy neck. He stayed there for a few seconds, taken by surprise by the sudden affection, before returning the gesture and wrapping his paws around the brown-furred apprentice. He held her close, like he was afraid to lose her, wishing such a hug didn’t have to be in such time-sensitive circumstances, but StarClan could wait for just a little while longer. They owned them both that much.

In response to her muffled thanks, Snowleap only kept embracing her, allowing a rumbling purr to stir in his throat. This little act meant a lot to him and in that moment, the RiverClan leader wished he could call Fawnpaw his daughter. Just like Birdy. She was just as important to him. But it didn’t feel like the right time and place for it, so he ultimately decided to be silent. After a few more seconds, the young apprentice pulled away and their attention went back to the Starcave. It was something that both of them needed to do, for the better future of RiverClan. Snowleap didn’t know what to say as the two of them looked towards the mouth of the cave, together and in silence. Thankfully, Fawnpaw soon spoke, making his ears twitch and he nodded enthusiastically. “They are waiting for both of us.” He meowed softly, reminding her that she was just as important as he was regarding being here. On careful paws, Snowleap followed Fawnpaw as she went ahead.

Approaching the cave’s entrance, the oriental longhair took a peek inside along with the small molly, his ears perking up as he could definitely hear a collection of mystical whispers bouncing off the cave walls, almost as if there were many cats just inside to welcome them. It was eerie in a way, but as Snowleap’s heart thumped in his chest, he couldn’t help but feel excited for what awaited them. Swallowing the lump that began to form in his throat, he silently followed behind Fawnpaw as she entered the Starcave, making sure to not lose sight of her as they padded through the narrow tunnel, trying to keep himself calm.

Without a sound other than ominous whispers and gentle pawsteps, they walked for a good few seconds that surely felt like minutes to the dark-furred tomcat. But soon enough, his partial gaze caught sight of a light appearing ahead of them. Then Snowleap and Fawnpaw exited the narrow tunnel and entered a much-more open section. It was there that the tall dark oriental longhair was met with an amazing sight! A huge rock that was all white and appeared like it was practically glowing under the moonlight, which shined through a hole in the cave’s ceiling. Snowleap’s single eye seemed to shine with a kit-like wonder and almost didn’t move once Fawnpaw stepped closer. Finally, the two RiverClan cats stood at the base of the strange rock. The whispers were much louder here and most likely was the source, but still, he could not tell what any of them were saying. Regardless, there was a certain warm and calming aura that surrounded this place, which made Snowleap feel like he belonged here, like he was supposed to be here. It was a feeling that he didn’t have a lot of experience with, unfortunately.

Looking at Fawnpaw, he saw her looking at him with a smile on her face, to which Snowleap returned it with a smile of his own. As a medicine cat, he wondered how different this was as an experience for her. Could she hear the whispers better than him? Were StarClan cats speaking to her? Did she see things that he did not? So many questions flooded his brain and fueled his curiosity, but now was not the time for such things, of course. Upon hearing her words, Snowleap nodded, still holding the smile as his expression. “As they should.” He simply said, glad that StarClan appeared to want her present before them as much as him. As they both turned back to the shimmering stone, Snowleap went to lay down beside Fawnpaw, settling into a comfortable loaf with his paws tucked underneath him. He made one last glance towards the young molly beside him before leaning his head forward, touching his nose to the cold glimmering rock with Fawnpaw.

✩ ◌ ✩ ◌ ✩

Once his nose touched the glowing surface, Snowleap immediately woke up in another place, almost like he was transported to another realm. He lifted his head, which had been resting on the ground, and looked around. Fawnpaw was beside him, just as she had been seconds before, which was good. Surrounding them was a, seemingly, endless abyss of stars in a purple, blue and orange sky. There was nothing else and as Snowleap stood up, he could feel his paws prickle with anxiousness. It was no pitch-black void, that was for sure. The sight was absolutely beautiful and the tom felt like he was up in the sky, amongst the stars that he would look up and see every night. It was magical and Snowleap could only stand there, waiting for someone, anyone, to appear before him. This was it. It was finally happening. He was becoming the next leader of RiverClan.

⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

( The lives will be given out in this order: Chestnutfall, Maplepaw, Cindersky, Barkkit, Robinwhisker, Bristlepaw, Dirtfur, Goosefury and lastly, Talonkit. Please follow this post order and do not post over anyone. Please and thank you! )

marni lumina SpiritedWarrior error TheNyanCatMinecart
Rockfall Dirtfur Cxndy_Fatal Slushie NinjaBloss

[Doom]

⋆ ☆ CHESTNUTFALL | HE/HIM ☆ ⋆
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

Ah, it was that time again.

A small figure stepped out from the stars, bearing a white pelt with brown tabby splotches, and bright green eyes that shone up at Snowleap with a spirit much younger than he appeared. “Hello, Snowleap and Fawnpaw.” The tom spoke in a deep, rich voice, one that would not be expected from a cat of his size. “I am Chestnutfall. I was a RiverClan warrior only a few generations before you. I also granted a life to one of your previous leaders, Lionstar.” He gave a warm smile toward Fawnpaw, then glanced back at Snowleap in a more serious manner. “My life was full of loss and hardships. I watched every member of my family die, and I witnessed my friends and loved ones fade out of existence. It crushed me…and while that was a heavy burden in my life, I should not have let it affect me in the way it did. I never let myself get close to anyone again. I became so bitter and blindsighted by the duties of putting my Clan before me, that I had forgotten to take care of myself…” He looked downward. “I died of starvation at only 60 moons. I could have lived much longer, Snowleap, if only I had learned to move on from my grievances and not blame myself for their losses.”

Glancing back up at the dark oriental, Chestnutfall’s eyes blazed with something greater than himself. “Snowleap, for your first life, I will be giving you Gratitude. Use it to be grateful for the lives of your loved ones, whether they have passed or not. Acknowledge your warriors loyalties, show appreciation to your loved ones, be thankful, and carry it all with utmost grace.” The small starry figure reached forward to rest his nose on Snowleap’s head, then transferred the life in a warm, intense rush. Feelings of love and appreciation would flow through Snowleap’s conscious, awakening fond memories and joyful moments he might not have recalled in a long time (or even considered after they happened). A cold, hollow feeling followed soon after, which would empty Snowleap’s stomach and drain him of his energy. His heart would ache for the losses of his fellow Clanmates. He would feel so, so lonely and full of self loathing and despair. It was all the things Chestnutfall felt for the majority of his life — all things he didn’t want Snowleap to ignore in the same way he did…in the way that Lionstar did.

Once the life was fully transferred, Chestnutfall pulled away. “Good luck, Snowleap.” He dipped his head at the soon-to-be leader, then swiftly turned and leapt into the abyss of sunset-colored stars, vanishing.

// zenosaurus marni SpiritedWarrior error TheNyanCatMinecart
Rockfall Dirtfur Cxndy_Fatal Slushie NinjaBloss \\

[SpiritedWarrior]

zenosaurus marni lumina error TheNyanCatMinecart
Rockfall Dirtfur Cxndy_Fatal Slushie NinjaBloss

A smaller, longer-furred ginger Persian tom stepped up after Chestnutfall had gone back to StarClan's camp. His pelt was shiny, his eyes glistened with happiness, and the determination he had when he was still a member of ShadowClan under Dawnstar's rule.

"Hello, Snowleap. Hello, Fawnpaw. I am Maplepaw, a former member of ShadowClan under Dawnstar's rule," he began with his explanation, nodding his head to the two RiverClan cats as he greeted them. "You two wouldn't know of me since I've never been in a Gathering or battle before, but I know how hard you two have been trying to stay strong these past moons."

Continuing on, he blinked, "My life didn't have many hardships, but I did make a mistake in my life that landed me here. And for that..."

Sitting down in front of Snowleap, Maplepaw lifted his front paws off the starry ground and his squished nose then touched Snowleap's nose, "I give you the life of clear judgment. Be true to yourself and trust not only your instincts but the choices you make for RiverClan. Never waver from tough decisions. Always stay with RiverClan, whether you all face hard times or not. Be there for your Clanmates just as they are for you. Trust in StarClan."

The young tom transferred the memory of his fatal mistake and the terror that he felt while under the water that ultimately brought him to be amongst his ancestors. Finally, Maplepaw showed Snowleap when he had accepted he'd be in StarClan.
Getting back to standing on four legs, Maplepaw dipped his head and turned away, bounding away to camp after Chestnutfall. Giving Snowleap a life was exhilarating, especially since it was the tom's first time. But he remained calm throughout it all, knowing he had to focus and help Snowleap on his journey to becoming RiverClan's leader.

[taillow]

Cindersky
Death. It had come to Cindersky in gentle waves, pulling her under bit by bit until darkness swallowed her up. The last thing she recalled seeing were her and Nectarflame, and the kits that she knew now would never come to be. It was difficult, parts of her future she had promise to uphold now shattered and slipping through her paws like sand. But reminiscing on the past would do her no good now.

After being led into StarClan (and a rather joyous reunion with her parents) she had noticed quite a few cats preparing themselves. And somehow, amidst the stars and vast paradise she was now in, Cindersky knew. Blue eyes had not taken sight of the familiar golden tabby pelt yet, but a certain energy seemed to buzz in the distance, and two figures she recognized almost immediately.

Would she be welcomed? She was sure it would be a shock for the tom, as well as the RiverClan apprentice. But she had always held faith in him, and perhaps this was StarClan offering her a chance to finally lay to rest the endless rivalry between their two Clans.

Cindersky would grasp ahold of it, if nothing more for the fact so that no other kits or apprentices would get caught up in the cross-fire of a battle started by their ancestors.

Now, as she strode from the line of cats, the silver bengal offered a small smile towards Snowleap. "Hello Snowleap, hello, Fawnpaw. My name is Cindersky." This must be RiverClan's new medicine cat if she was here alongside Snowleap during a lives ceremony. Cindersky would be lying if she said she wasn't relieved that Snakeheart seemed to no longer be in such a position, but she didn't dare speak it out loud. "You may be surprised to see me. But there will be other times to discuss that. I am here to finally put to rest the rivalry between our two Clans."

Blue eyes shimmered with an unknown thought, a light smile encompassing her expression. "For too long, ThunderClan and RiverClan have been at each others throats. You and I both have seen far too much needless bloodshed, and I hope that with you being granted guardianship of RiverClan, the wrongs of the past can finally be righted." There were certainly several mistakes made on both ends - hopefully both of the new leaders would see through the senseless violence and move forward into a brighter, more peaceful future.

"Snowleap, with this life, I give you hope. Use it well to hold steadfast to your Clan in times of trials and tribulations. Let it guide your paws and turn your eyes to the stars, should you ever feel as though you have faltered." With that, she reached forward to press her nose against his forehead. In it she revealed the meeting where she had first been voted into ThunderClan's leader. How hope had fluttered within her chest at seeing her Clan thriving once more. Hope in how, in her last final moments which now melted into the presented memory, she knew her Clan would carry on without her.

A moment of silence as she stayed close, stepping back just a little but remaining in front of him. "You have a hard future ahead of you, Snowleap," she spoke now, blue eyes darkening ever so slightly. "Do not let it consume the light I know to be within you. For far too long, RiverClan has been lead by leaders who allowed the darkness to swallow them whole. Tonight, there is a new path set ahead of you. It is up to you which one you will take."

There was much more to say, but Cindersky simply offered a reassuring smile. This would not be the last she saw of the new RiverClan leader, she knew that. It glittered within her eyes; the belief in Snowleap, the confidence that he would be the cat to finally lead RiverClan back towards the glorious days it had once had.

She gave him a final nod - and one last smile towards Fawnpaw - before turning and disappearing back amongst the rank of the StarClan cats. Snowleap would do well. She knew it in her bones.

[ zenosaurus TheNyanCatMinecart

[TheNyanCatMinecart]

~ BARKKIT OF STARCLAN ~

From the ranks of starry cats, a kit emerged. She looked as though she had not been far off from apprenticeship when she died, but she was, of course, young, making her way to the soon-to-be RiverClan leader on stumpy legs. Stars flecked her fur, which glowed with an ethereal light, and her pelt carried many scents: stone, water, cold starlight, and the four seasons. All StarClan cats were marked with these scents. Yet beneath all of that, she carried the odor of a cat, one who had been from RiverClan when she died. She looked quite odd, too: a little smaller than average, a rounder body, two lower canine teeth sticking out from an overcrowded mouth, a tail that was no more than a stub. Her brown fur was marked with black spots, including one over her right eye, orange stripes on her back and cheeks, and dark ginger-orange flecks. The end of her tail was the same dark ginger-orange color. Her dark amber eyes glowed with a wisdom beyond her moons. This was Barkkit, who had been killed by a rogue during Kestrelstar's reign.

Barkkit hadn't done a lot when she'd first reached StarClan. That cruel rogue had killed her, tearing apart her dreams of ever becoming a RiverClan warrior... or proving herself to Lakekit. But why bother proving herself when she could've stayed at home, completely safe with those she loved? Then again... she had no idea where her mother and siblings had ended up. Would Barkkit have been all alone if she'd stayed? The thought made her kind of sad. There's no time to dwell on the past, she thought to herself as she stepped out from the rank of starry cats. It's time to focus on RiverClan's future.

From the small amount of time she'd spent observing RiverClan from her place among the stars, Barkkit had witnessed Kestrelstar die, Skystar rise, and then Skystar die. Now it was time for Snowleap to rise. Hopefully, he would guide RiverClan better than the other two had. Barkkit padded up to the tall dark gray tom and looked up at him. "Hello. My name is Barkkit. I died at the beginning of Kestrelstar's leadership because I snuck out of camp when another kit challenged me to. She said I was ugly and told me to leave the camp, or else she'd make me suffer. So I did, and I ran into a rogue, who killed me in front of two other warriors - Splashleap and Flamedrop. I let her provoke me because of the way I looked, and the fact that I didn't know who my father was, so the Clan assumed I was half-blooded."

Barkkit remembered that day, how Lakekit had teased her and warned her about "suffering the consequences" if she didn't do what she was told. She wanted to make sure Snowleap didn't do something similar: letting others push him around, or hurt him, because of insecurities or harsh comments. "With this life, I give you self-confidence. It may be difficult at times, but have faith in yourself and your decisions for RiverClan. Criticism and genuine feedback on you and your choices is okay, but don't let others get you down with harsh words that are meant to hurt, not help. Remember that, although there is strength from those around you, you need strength and confidence from within to boost you forward."

Barkkit pressed her pink nose against the fur right below the RiverClan leader's shoulder, which was the best place she could reach, and let the life course through him. This life would at first feel bad, as though many harsh, critical stares were burning on the soon-to-be leader's pelt, and self-doubt would begin to fester within. Then a surge of confidence and reassurance with himself would burst forward, sending warmth coursing through his veins, and the feeling of being stared out would vanish. Being self-confident would be difficult, but it would be worth it for a stronger Clan - and a happier cat.

When the life had finished running through Snowleap, Barkkit stepped back and dipped her head to him. "You'll be a good leader, Snowleap," she mewed earnestly. "Don't forget about the strength within." And with that, the she-kit turned and vanished into the crowd, her starry pelt lost among the others.

zenosaurus Rockfall

[Poprock]

zenosaurus marni Dirtfur
---
From the starry depths emerged a calico she-cat. Her kind green eyes sparkled as they landed on the two Riverclan cats. Today she would grant a life to a new leader. One she hoped would finally be the one to end all of this pain that warriors past and present had suffered.

How much time had passed since she had died? She had watched so many leaders from Thunderclan and Riverclan receive and quickly lose the lives her clanmates had granted them. Kestrelstar and Skystar both foolishly lost a bundle of their lives at once, throwing Riverclan into chaos. Even the medicine cats had disappeared, leaving the rest of the clan to pick up the pieces. It was heartbreaking to watch. Could Thunderclan and Riverclan not thrive together?

Finally, finally her home had gotten stability in the form of Cinderstar and Sparrowflight. Robinwhisker had watched gleefully from the stars as Thunderclan was finally united and prospering after seasons of chaos. I wish so badly that I could enjoy it too. A familiar pang of sadness shot through the calico she-cat. Thunderclan had all but forgotten her. No one cared to bring her up anymore, no one mourned her. It was the one downside of eternal peace in the stars. Her painful death was ultimately for nothing.

Or was it? Thunderclan was not the only clan Robinwhisker watched over. Despite dying at the paws of Riverclan, she considered them as equals. Of course this took a lot of reflection, crying, and confessions that only the glittering stars would hear. Countless days she cursed Riverclan for killing her, for killing Eveningstar and Buckstar. For sending her clan into seasons of turmoil and death. It was only recently that she saw Riverclan for what it truly was.

“Hiya! It’s so nice to meet you both.” Green eyes flashed over to the small medicine cat. I already like her. “The name’s Robinwhisker. I was a warrior of Thunderclan during Buckstar and Eveningstar’s leaderships. During that battle between our clans, I was poisoned. Despite Icicleripple’s best efforts I slowly and painfully passed away.” She took a moment to shoo away her own feelings of dread and regret. This was about Snowleap and Fawnpaw.

“Anyways enough about me, huh? Let's talk about you. Fawnpaw before I give Snowleap his life, I have a message for you. Your position is going to be tough. Cats are going to die no matter how hard you fight to save them. I just… don’t want you to beat yourself up too bad when that happens.” Stars, she hoped Icicleripple eventually found peace with her death. She also prayed to… uh who did starclan cats pray to?.... Someone that Fawnpaw wouldn’t ever be put in the same situation. "You are going to do great things. Believe in yourself, you've got Robinwhisker in your corner." A final smile towards the she-cat before turning to the leader. It was time for his life.

“I am giving you the life of forgiveness. Please use it to lead Thunderclan and Riverclan into an era of peaceful relations. Forgive the past. You don’t have to forget it if you don’t want to…” please don’t… I want someone to remember me. “... but to lead well you have to forgive.”

Touching her pink nose to Snowleap’s, she allowed her last moments to flood his body and mind. She felt the burning torture of the poison flood her every cell, slowly but surely locking up her body until she no longer moved. It wasn’t intentional, unfortunately her pain seemed to come with the life. Who made up the Starclan rules anyways?

Once the searing pain subsided, Robinwhisker took a pawstep back. She could sense her time with the two was ending. Soon enough they would be back amongst the living, and she would continue watching them from the stars. "Good luck you two. I'm proud of you." With that, she disappeared back into the starry depths.

[Rxcket_p]

thepirateking birdie



A bit nervous, this was a big job.

The brown and grey tomcat approached SnowLeap and FawnPaw. "Greetings, SnowLeap, FawnPaw." Bristlepaw said, dipping his head, before looking back up at the two felines. He smiled. "Before we progress, I just want to say, I'm very proud of you both. You've both worked hard to earn the respect of your clanmates. I am Bristlepaw, previous Riverclan resident. I was- killed by a fox."

Bristlepaw took a deep breath. "Enough about me, there are more important things-" He laughed quietly at his own joke. He stood as straight as he could. "I am here to grant you the life of Courage, to have the strength to deal with any difficult problems with confidence." He said.

Bristlepaw smiled brightly to Snowleap. He touched his nose to the older cats, closing his eyes. Painful memories of the fox attack and the fear in the eyes of the other apprentices as he was swung around in the canines jaws. Bristlepaw stayed still for a moment that felt like ages, before pulling back.

"Good luck." Bristlepaw said, before turning and walking away to sit on the sidelines.

[Dirtfur]

Once the star cats before him took their turns, the star-lit Dirtfur padded forward out of the star clouds, staring straight ahead at the two RiverClan cats. Dirtfur gave a playful, maybe even rather goofy, smile to Fawnpaw, then a serious grin to Snowleap.

“Hello Snowleap, hello Fawnpaw. I am Dirtfur, former deputy of RiverClan.” He was still smiling, a genuine smile that matches his comforting greetings. “I had done awful things, including letting myself get sick that soon led to my exile.” His smile dropped itself down by each word, remembering the times he had failed himself, to others, and to his clan. He shook his head, wanting to move on from the awful visuals he always had in his mind. Not now, he is busy doing a good thing for a change!

“I died as a loner, alone, yet I have learned to accept the facts and have moved on with death.” As much as Dirtfur wanted to keep a frown, he forced himself to smile again. He continued, “I am giving you the Life of Acceptance. Snowleap, you will face difficult challenges that will make you choose the wrong decision that costs your dignity or your loved ones, but the best way to handle that is to accept it and learn from it. A great leader is one who can accept faults, even the ones that were not yours, and learn how to prevent it with past experiences.” And… Dirtfur was finished with the speech. Time for the difficult part.

The short tom stretched his neck, the nose met -though not touching- the soon-to-be leader’s shoulders. He extended his nose, though when he saw that it was not yet reachable, he brought himself up on his tip-toes, finally pressing his nose to the tall cat’s. Memories of his awful past experiences would be flowing through Snowleap’s mind, leaving painful stings of embarrassment, guilt, and regret in the stomach. That was soon followed by a tranquility and soothing sensation of letting things go as the last memory would be the former deputy’s final moments.

Dirtfur, done giving a life, lets his paws touch the ground and his nose parted ways with Snowleap’s. Before he gave the floor to the cat after him, the starry-brown tabby longed to give a message to Snowleap ever since he became deputy. He gazed gratefully at the soon-to-be leader, hues filled with proudness for his own clan. “Thank you for helping Skystar. I feared that I would fail helping him as a spirit, after I failed him as a father,” he whispered. Though, here and there were cracks of his voice that betrayed his real, emotional voice that was blocked so it cannot ruin the ceremony. “You will be a great leader.” Now… everything was over, both the ceremony and his message with the oriental. The tabby walked away, smiling for what felt like a bittersweet ending to him.

thepirateking birdie dino.

[dino.]

// birdie thepirateking NinjaBloss

>Goosefury<
Irritation rolled off of Goosefury in tangible waves.

Throughout his time in RiverClan as a Shield under Kestrelstar, he had come to like Skystar and enjoy his company. Despite his known history, the tom was good. Strong. Trustworthy. Someone to look to in times of hardship, someone who he could count on to do right by RiverClan. And despite his history, Goosefury had trusted him to lead RiverClan to a bright and better future.

He had given Skystar a life, that of knowing when to relent. He had given the tom his name, a reminder of what was needed from him.

And Skystar, in all his self-righteous audacity, had taken both and stomped their meaning, honor, and Goosefury’s Clan into the mud. Then he had died, leaving behind Snowleap, someone Goosefury was not familiar with and was unsure if he trusted.

Safe to say, Goosefury was beyond pissed.

When Skystar had finally died, Goosefury had decided then and there that he was going to participate in this ceremony or get himself banished to the Dark Forest trying. He had stood, visibly bristling, at the back of the crowd as the cats lined up before him delivered their lives. When Dirtfur, a cat Goosefury remembered all too well, was finished, he strode past him with an air of unwavering purpose to stand in front of Snowleap. His gaze softened when he looked to Fawnpaw and nodded briefly to her in greeting - he had no ill will toward the young medicine cat - but it became just as hard, just as piercing as before when he returned his attention to the soon-to-be leader.

His voice was sharp, incisors flashing in between words.

“You should already know me as Goosefury. I joined RiverClan under Lionstorm when I was young and that cat was the best thing to ever happen to this Clan. Sootflare was a disappointment. Kestrelstar could have done better. Skystar was a complete and utter failure in every possible way. All three participated in destroying the legacy Lionstorm built and I WILL NOT see the same of you.”

Goosefury leaned forward to touch his nose to Snowleap’s, and the feeling that rushed forth with the life was burning, angry, painful, and near blindingly bright - all of Goosefury's anger and his grief, a hopefully long-lasting reminder that would drill his expectations into this cat’s head, because StarClan save Snowleap should he drag RiverClan down further.

“I give you the life of a clear mind. Ignore what anyone says about you or your leadership that is not real, constructive advice; if someone’s actions don’t directly threaten RiverClan, ignore those too. Don’t allow pettiness, grief, or a thirst for revenge cloud your thoughts or distract you from your duties as leader. RIVERCLAN is what matters most, not your personal vendettas. Don’t let anything distract you from that. Ever.”

He stepped back, eye narrowed, jaw working silently. After just a few seconds, he spoke again. “I told Skystar ‘no pressure’, and that was a mistake. You, Snowleap; you have all the pressure. You will honor these lives and your position and the meanings that come with both. Don’t you dare screw my Clan up more than your predecessors already have, or you’ll have me to deal with, mark my words.”

He glanced down to Fawnpaw, expression once again softening - stars forbid she believe he was angry at her. "Keep him in line. Good luck. If you ever need help, you need only to ask."

With a final lash of his tail, Goosefury whipped around. Unlike some of the others, he did not fade from view - he remained a solid, bristling presence, gaze locked on the rising leader with burning intensity.

[Ian]

It was finally Talonkit's turn. He was the last one to give a life and was responsible for providing Snowleap his new name, whether he wanted it or not. The perpetually two-moon-old kit made his way out of the ranks of the starry cats who had gathered. He paused for a moment and glanced towards the new medicine cat apprentice RiverClan had. Fawnpaw, if he wasn't mistaken. Snowleap could wait for a minute. He had an important message for the young molly.

"Fawnpaw, I'm glad to see you here. Your predecessor never visited. Speaking of which, I will not go into all the details for our time here is short, but your role in RiverClan is an important one. Remember to remain open-minded and use your words and your paws for healing. Perhaps if Snakeheart had understood that, then I would not be here today."

Talonkit would not go into more detail. It wouldn't matter anyways, as the cat in question had disappeared from RiverClan. Though if he returned, hopefully Snowleap would remember his promise. Kestrelstar and Skystar hadn't done anything, and while Snowleap had tried, there just wasn't enough time.

But now wasn't the time for the fluffy gray kitten to get caught up in the past. He had a life and a name to give, and Snowleap had been waiting long enough. Talonkit stood on his hind paws and reached out with his forepaws to steady himself on Snowleap's muzzle as he went to touch noses.

"Snowleap, as you already know me and my story, I will forgo any introductions. With this life, I give you youth. Use it well to remember how it feels to be in the younger generation, and never forget about them."

The life was paradoxically painful and joyous at the same time. It was a struggle of self-discovery and a sense of adventure all wrapped up into one. A kitten playing carefree in the clearing and an apprentice charging headfirst into battle, determined to prove themself.

Talonkit stepped back as the last of the life entered Snowleap and immediately moved on to the final part of the ceremony. There was no time left to waste. RiverClan needed the leader that Snowleap could become before it collapsed in on itself. And if the tom didn't step up, then Talonkit would rip all nine lives right back from him.

"Snowleap, along with your new status as leader, I will give you a new name. One that represents the strength you have to build RiverClan back up to what it once was. I hail you by your new name, Pikestar. Your old life is no more. You have now received the nine lives of a leader, and StarClan grants you the guardianship of RiverClan. Defend it well; care for young and old; honor your ancestors and the traditions of the warrior code; live each life with pride and dignity."

Talonkit stepped back into line with the other StarClan cats once he was done, nodding once to both Pikestar and Fawnpaw. All he could do now was hope that the new leader of RiverClan would succeed where the previous three failed. From what he had seen, he had faith in Pikestar, but the stress of being a leader could change a cat, as seen by how Skystar turned out. Hopefully, this time would be different.

thepirateking birdie

[Captain]

SNOWLEAP / PIKESTAR
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

▻ Standing there, alongside young Fawnpaw, the two of them were soon greeted by a figure that came from within the endless sea of stars that stretched out before them. They wore a white pelt with brown splotches that looked like they were bathed in shimmering stars. Snowleap said nothing, out of fear of being disrespectful, and dipped his head to the smaller cat as the smaller tomcat peered up at him with vibrant green-hued eyes. The tall RiverClan tom listened intently, giving this StarClan cat — who introduced himself as Chestnutfall — his utmost attention. He was once a RiverClan warrior, one that lived a long time before Snowleap had come to the clans, being one of the nine cats to give Lionstar his lives. He had heard a pawful of things about that particular leader, but all were good things, thankfully. Next, Chestnutfall told Snowleap more about his life, about the loss of his loved ones dying and fading from existence. Crushing him and weighing heavy on the warrior’s shoulders. It allowed him to become distant, bitter, and blind to taking care of himself. The dark-furred oriental nodded understandingly, as the other tomcat told him that he had died at 60 moons old because of this, while having a chance to live so much longer.

The first life that Snowleap was given, by Chestnutfall, was one of Gratitude. It was for loving his family, his friends, all who he held dear in his life, even if they were no longer with him. Be thankful for your clanmates and carry it with utmost grace. Snowleap closed his eye and leaned forward, letting Chestnutfall touch his nose to his forehead. Once they made contact, a strong warm feeling pulsed through his body, flooding the RiverClan tomcat with memories. He was reminded of his friendship with Dragonflyfrond, Reedlight and Raccoonear, falling in love with Lynxfall on the border, becoming the father of young Birdpaw, sharing a heartfelt hug with Moonfrost and Wormbite, even becoming good friends with Fawnpaw when she was just a kit. There were so many memories, ones filled with love and appreciation. However, as soon as it flowed through him, a new feeling would overtake it. A cold, empty feeling that left him numbly hollow and lethargic. He was reminded of all the burials that he had attended in his lifetime, witnessing the loss of his clanmates whom he saw as his dear friends. He thought of Birdpaw’s death, and how it had destroyed him, and the disappearance of nearly all of his closest friends.

It brought tears to the tall feline’s eye, but he blinked them away as Chestnutfall pulled away. A blessing of good luck, another shared dip of the head, and then the first StarClan cat was gone, vanishing from sight. Snowleap glanced at Fawnpaw, not really knowing what to say, before returning his gaze to the stars in front of them. It didn’t take long for another cat to approach the two of them. This StarClan cat was a smaller, longer-furred ginger Persian feline, sharing the same sparkling gleam to their fur that Chestnutfall had. They appeared both excited and happy to bestow a life to RiverClan’s newest leader, which made Snowleap smile a little. He dipped his head in greeting to the former Shadowclan apprentice as he introduced himself: Maplepaw. Listening closely, the small ginger-furred StarClan cat told them of how he had never been a Gathering nor even seen a battlefield, but regardless, he knew of the hardships that RiverClan alone had faced during these times. Watching from the stars, without a doubt.

Maplepaw soon reached up to touch his nose to Snowleap’s own nose, telling him of the second life that he would now be given. One of Clear Judgements. In order to be true to himself, trust in instinct and choices that he will come to make alone. Never waver from touch decisions and stay with RiverClan, through good and bad. He nodded with a firm smile to his expression, his eye closed. Trust in his clan, trust in the stars. Seconds later, the feeling of terror and struggle overcase Snowleap, taking his breath away like he was drowning. He was experiencing what this young apprentice went through, soon feeling a sense of calm and peace as the memory of Maplepaw accepting his fate occurred. It was the importance that came with choices and how one wrong decision could change your life forever, even end it, like it did for this StarClan cat. Then, Maplepaw pulled away and dipped his head to Snowleap and Fawnpaw before turning and scampering off, disappearing just as Chestnutfall did moments before. That was two lives down, seven left to go. It left Snowleap fidgeting his front paws slightly, wondering who would be next.

The third life-giver, however, was someone that he did not expect. His eye would soon rest upon the familiar form of Cinderstar, or well, Cindersky as she introduced herself as. Snowleap stared at the silver-furred bengal for a moment, mouthing her name in astonishment to see her standing before him now, covered from head to toe in beautiful glittering stars. In his mind, the two of them were friends, despite the rough past between RiverClan and ThunderClan. He felt like she was one of the few cats that truly saw that he was trying to make a difference. Many questions swarmed his head on how Cindersky got here, but at least she seemed content, though maybe that was just a mask for him. Snowleap didn’t know, but what he could do was give his friend a warm smile and bow his head to her as she spoke, agreeing with her words about putting to rest the long rivalry between their clans. It was what the dark oriental longhair had wanted for many moons now. There had been far too much unnecessary death.

There were many things he could say, that he wanted to say, but for now, all Snowleap wanted to do was listen and not interrupt the gray molly as she talked. He nodded firmly to Cindersky, hopefully showing her that he did want to right the wrongs of RiverClan’s past. It was what he desired to achieve ever since he had begun to rise among the ranks of his clan. Snowleap wanted to put their differences behind and stop the bloodshed. Hopefully, they could even become allies someday too, but of course, that could be wishing too far. He needed to focus on what was happening right now, and not get lost in hopes for the future. His third life, Cindersky’s life, was of Hope. To remain strong for RiverClan through trials and hardships that they would surely face in the future. He closed his eye and leaned forward, feeling Cindersky touch his forehead with her nose seconds later. Snowleap would then see ThunderClan making Cindersky their leader, and how hope overcame her as the clan thrived and grew from where it had once struggled. It ended with calmness and reassurance in knowing the clan would be okay without her.

The third life was now his and Cindersky pulled her nose away, but stayed close as he opened his eye. Her next words were ominous, and it worried him, wondering what possibly awaited him beyond this ceremony. But the silver star-bathed bengal’s advice spoke to Snowleap and he nodded. No matter what would happen, he could not allow it to darken the light in his heart that even he, deep down, knew he had. He had a very important choice to make, on how he would be as RiverClan’s leader. Snowleap silently vowed that he would be a good, kind leader, if he could help it. He had seen how other cats had run this clan and he wished to do better than them, be a good cat that doesn’t lead with an iron paw. The two of them then shared a smile looking at one another, as Snowleap saw within her gaze that she believed in his abilities and knew that he could be a good clan leader if he worked hard and stayed true to who he was. “I won’t let you down, my friend.” He thought as she gave her final nod and turned to leave, “May you rest easy among the stars. I hope to see you again someday.” And then she was gone.

After a little bit, a small kitten appeared before them, with a round body and teeth sticking out of their mouth, accompanied with a stub of a tail. They, of course, bore the same starry pelts of the StarClan cats that were here before. Their eyes glowed as they stared up at Snowleap, clearly holding knowledge that he alone could only dream of knowing in his lifetime. He dipped his head to them in greeting, showing respect to the young StarClan member. She soon would introduce herself as Barkkit, a kitten who had died at the beginning of Kestrelstar’s leadership. Hm, that meant that he was in RiverClan when she was still alive. Another kitten had challenged her to leave camp after calling her ugly and a rogue had killed the tiny molly in front of two RiverClan warriors. Barkkit’s whole story was a cruel and heartless tale of how awful cats were to kittens, for the most stupid of reasons, such as appearance or asking questions. It reminded him of Talonkit and his own story. Snowleap wondered if the two of them had spoken. However, that was not important now, he continued to listen to the she-kit and nodded, showing her that he was listening to every word, feeling bad that she had never gotten a chance to be a warrior. It was unfair.

Barkkit’s life for him would be… Self-Confidence. To have faith in himself and his decisions. Criticism and feedback are fine, but never let anyone else’s harsh words affect how he runs RiverClan. As the kitten said, there is strength from those around you, you need strength and confidence from within to boost you forward. This life, in particular, spoke to Snowleap in a very personal way and he couldn’t help but feel extremely grateful for having received it. He closed his again, and felt Barkkit touch her nose to the fur below his shoulder. The feelings that this life gave him were harshly familiar to Snowleap. The staring of others, the burning sensation of embarrassment, the heavy weighing of self-doubt. He had known it all his life in his own experiences, but Barkkit was helping him see past it as the life changed rapidly to a powerful emotion of confidence and reassurance, coursing through his veins and making his eye spring open. It was an amazing, warm feeling that made the RiverClan tom feel alive. He loved this feeling, it made him happy beyond words, and he yearned to feel it more through his future as leader.

Of course, Barkkit then stepped away and dipped her head to him. He smiled and bowed his head to the small molly, her words meaning a lot of him in more ways than one. Snowleap mouthed a silent ‘thank-you’ before watching her turn and left them to await the next life-giver, which would be number five. Glancing at Fawnpaw, the RiverClan tomcat gave her a warm smile too, trying to silently tell her that he was doing okay and hoped she was doing okay too. She was soon replaced by a calico molly, whose eyes shimmered with kindness much like her fur did with stars. Her introduction was a cheerful one, to which he dipped his head too, still smiling. Robinwhisker was her name and she had been a warrior of ThunderClan during Buckstar and Eveningstar’s time. He remembered meeting Buckbranch a long time ago, briefly, when Kestrelstar had still been alive. Snowleap blinked in surprise as she mentioned that she was poisoned. Oh. She was the victim of that troubling time. Despite the RiverClan tomcat not participating in such awful events, he still felt responsible for it. It had been his clan, after all, that caused it.

Soon enough, the conversation turned to Fawnpaw and the RiverClan tomcat said nothing, nor really did anything, just politely allowed his partial gaze to flicker between the two mollies as Robinwhisker spoke further. Her words were uplifting and encouraging, despite the mention of hardship and even death, and Snowleap believed that it was exactly what the young medicine cat needed right now. He nodded enthusiastically, agreeing with the StarClan cat’s words, knowing too that she would do great things. The dark-furred oriental didn’t want to ruin the moment between them, so he thought about it instead. “You’ve got me in your corner too, Fawnpaw. You always will.” The whole interaction quickly went back to his life and Snowleap straightened up, meeting gazes with the calico she-cat.

The fifth live Snowleap was bestowed was one of Forgiveness, which surprised him slightly, wary of whether or not he truly deserved such a gift after all that RiverClan had done in the past. But the oriental longhair pushed that feeling down inside and focused on what Robinwhisker told him now. He was entrusted to lead ThunderClan and RiverClan in an era of peace, after so many countless moons of violence. Forgive the past. She said that he didn’t have to forget about what had happened either… and he didn’t. Snowleap didn’t want to be the kind of leader to act like the sins of their clan’s history just didn’t happen. He wanted to take responsibility, and do better. The dark tomcat shut his eye and welcomed the molly’s nose to touch his as she told him to forgive. Then, immediately, he was left with a burning agony that spread across his body, almost like he was being burned alive. Snowleap’s body trembled from the pain, but he did not falter nor did he make a sound, biting down on his tongue until he tasted blood. This is what the victims of that cruel poisoning went through. This was what Robinwhisker endured.

Eventually, the pain lessened and the RiverClan leader was able to let his body relax, realizing that he had his muscles tensed up the entire time. Robinwhisker then stepped back and Snowleap opened his eye, looking at the once-ThunderClan molly one last time before she bid them good luck, as well as stating that she was proud, before disappearing back into the stars with the other StarClan cats before her. He swallowed the lump in his throat and took a deep breath, trying to relax after feeling such intense physical pain. It gave him a much-needed new look at the poison claws incident and Snowleap was thankful for her for showing him the pain that she had suffered.

Next up was a brown-and-gray feline who looked up at both Snowleap and Fawnpaw, dipping his head in a polite greeting. The tall dark-furred tomcat smiled brightly and bowed his head to return the greeting, his ears twitching with interest as the young feline began to talk. He first told them how proud he was of how far they had both come and that they had earned the respect of RiverClan. It made Snowleap happy to hear. Then, the young tomcat introduced himself as Bristlepaw, a once-RiverClan feline who was slain by a fox some time ago. He nodded understandably as a response to the apprentice’s seemingly-nervous laugh, straightening up too as the Bristlepaw began to tell him more about the life that he would be giving to him. This one, life number six, was one of Courage.

As Bristlepaw touched noses with Snowleap, once more the tall tomcat closed his eye and allowed the next life to be transferred to him. This would be for when he needed strength to deal with the toughest of choices with utmost confidence when needed. As the life flowed through Snowleap’s body, he was overcome with an overwhelming sense of fear, as well as the feeling of sharp teeth sinking into his flesh as his body was viciously flung around. A fox attack, one that took young Bristlepaw’s life, without a single doubt. It made his heart thump heavily in this chest, but Snowleap did his best to stand still and endure it, gritting his teeth together as horror and pain coursed through his limbs one by one. But then, it was done. Bristlepaw pulled away and Snowleap was brought back to the present, making his eye open. The brown-and-gray tom simply uttered ‘good luck’ and disappeared without another world. His head felt light for a moment, the RiverClan leader still coming down from that experience.

Just as Bristlepaw left, another cat replaced his spot in mere seconds. A star-lit tomcat stood now before the two of them, staring at Fawnpaw and flashing her a playful smile and then directing a serious grin right at Snowleap before speaking. This cat was Dirtfur, once a deputy of RiverClan, just as he had been. The dark-furred oriental dipped his head in another respectful bow of greeting as Dirtfur began to tell his own story. He had done awful things, gotten sick and was even exiled from RiverClan because of that. He couldn’t help but grow curious about his tom’s past, wanting to hear more and know what had happened. Though, it was not the time for such curiosity and Snowleap stuck to the present and what they were here for. The life of Acceptance was what Dirtfur would be giving to him. For accepting the times where you make mistakes and it costs you things like dignity and even those you hold dear. Much like Barkkit’s life, this one felt entirely personal for him. But that only made it more important.

The best thing for him to do was to move on, heal and learn from screw-ups, rather than let them control him. He had tried to conquer that alone for many moons, but maybe this would be a good step in achieving such things. A great leader is one who can accept faults, even the ones that were not yours, and learn how to prevent it with past experiences. Snowleap hoped that such a wise phrase would stick with him for a long time. With that, it was time for this life to be passed on to him. The tall oriental feline closed his eye and leaned down a little, soon feeling Dirtfur’s nose touch his own. More memories, these ones belonging to the short tom, entered him. Harsh emotions of embarrassment, guilt, regret all stirred in the pit of his stomach and left a bitter taste of Snowleap’s tongue. It was soon changed to a nice feeling though, like a rainbow after a thunderstorm, where Dirtfur would find peace within his last moments alive before going to StarClan. It was like a heavy boulder got taken off his shoulders.

Dirtfur’s nose left Snowleap and his single eye reopened, sharing a grateful gaze with the other tomcat, though for different reasons entirely. With the short feline’s next words, it left the tall oriental surprised, not expecting a thanks for how he had treated Skystar. But if it was a thank-you from his own father, then who was he to disregard it. He smiled warmly and dipped his head again, silently telling Dirtfur that he was glad he could be a good deputy to his son. He knew he had not been perfect, but Snowleap would like to think the golden leader that liked him and appreciated how much he tried to, and will do, for RiverClan. The emotion in Dirtfur’s voice spoke volumes to him and it really did mean a lot to Snowleap to hear right now. He would be a great leader. Hopefully that would be true.

The tabby tomcat then vanished from sight and Snowleap was left to wait for the next StarClan cat. He looked at Fawnpaw again, wondering what many questions and thoughts were going through her head. Obviously, this was a lot to take in, but personally, the dark-furred leader couldn’t help but feel both overwhelmed and excited at the same time. There wasn’t much time to dwell on these things though, before the next cat came forward — and great StarClan, they did not look too happy. They strode towards Snowleap, their entire body seeming to physically bristle with irritation, and the dark-furred oriental longhair could only gulp and pray that he’d survive this. As they stood before him now, he noticed them cast a gentler look to Fawnpaw, which relieved Snowleap, glad that she would not be involved in whatever wrath this cat had ready for him. The harsh, piercing look that the StarClan cat, who was known as Goosefury, sent the new RiverClan leader’s way, however, made the tall tomcat’s blood run cold. Uh-oh.

His words were as sharp as an adder’s fangs and Snowleap had to do his best not to flinch. Goosefury joined RiverClan under Lionstorm when he was young. How young? Younger than Snowleap was when Blizzardwind found him? These curious thoughts lasted a mere couple seconds before he forced himself to focus. Sootflare was a disappointment. Kestrelstar could have been better. Skystar was an utter failure. Now, Snowleap would never ever be caught saying such a thing out-loud, but despite the bitter tongue of Goosefury, he agreed with his statement. More than he had the guts to admit even. It was clear that he was fed up though and would not be as mercifical towards him when it came to leading RiverClan. The tomcat wasted nobody’s time in touching his nose to Snowleap’s and the tall oriental couldn’t even bear to close his eye as his body was overcome with a burning rage, filled with pain and grief that was blinding. It would surely leave a mark on Snowleap, which was good, because Goosefury needed to get his point across and make this foolish minnowbrain didn’t mess up RiverClan more.

This was the life of a Clear Mind. He was ordered to ignore what anyone said about him or his leadership, unless it was actually good, helpful advice. If someone’s actions don’t affect RiverClan, don’t get involved. Leave pettiness, grief, and revenge behind. The clan is what matters most to him, that is what should matter most. Nothing ever should distract him from such a dire responsibility. Snowleap could only nod firmly as Goosefury stepped back, looking at him with a narrowed look. Skystar had failed and now it was up for him to pick up the pieces. All the pressure was on him and him alone, whether he wanted it or not. Okay. He would honor these lives and this position he was being given. And the meanings along with it. Yes. Goosefury vowed to get after him if he screwed this up and if that didn’t motivate the new leader of RiverClan, what would? Nodding again, Snowleap stayed silent as the terrifyingly intimidating tomcat looked to Fawnpaw with a much softer gaze once again. Thank the stars.

Keep him in line. That was what Goosefury said to her. And with a good luck and an offer for help whenever needed, the StarClan cat walked away without anything more to say. Except he did not leave. No, no, no. Goosefury made sure to stay put and off to the side, but not out of Snowleap’s partial view. Oh StarClan, have mercy, he might faint from that cat’s burning stare alone. Thankfully, moments later, the last and final cat to arrive made his way towards Fawnpaw and Snowleap. The new RiverClan leader recognized the small kitten almost immediately. It was Talonkit! The one who warned him of Snakeheart’s misdeeds moons ago. However, at first, he didn’t seem too interested in Snowleap, but more towards Fawnpaw. It made perfect sense though, given the situation. He didn’t stop or even dare to try to bud in as Talonkit looked to RiverClan’s newfound medicine cat first and foremost.

Snowleap listened in on what he said to young Fawnpaw, but not too intently, considering this was a message for her right now and not him. He was happy to see her here and soon told her of how important her role in RiverClan truly is. Remain open-minded, use your words and paws for healing. Then, the mention of Snakeheart. Snowleap didn’t object to her knowing. Hell, he was glad that Talonkit could tell her himself. She deserved to know, just as much as the RiverClan oriental longhair did. He was planning on talking to her more about it in-depth though, however, that was for another time. Talonkit soon turned to Snowleap and stood on his hind paws, steadying himself on the tall oriental’s muzzle after he leaned down a smidge. He explained to him briefly that this last life would be of Youth, to know what it feels to be young and never forget about them while being a clan leader.

As they touched noses, the last life flowed through Snowleap, many different emotions being given to him. It was pain and joy all mixed into one, adventure and the excitement of discovering who you were, kittens playing and apprentices aiming to prove their worth. Such as Snowleap’s own youth. Once that was complete, Talonkit stepped back and the tall dark-furred oriental stood before him, now with all nine lives, awaiting for more instructions.

The new RiverClan leader nodded understandably as the young kitten told him that he would be given a new name with these lives, one for strength that would aid him to bring RiverClan back up to what it had once been.

Pikestar.

He would no longer be Snowleap, his old life was gone and now he was to be a clan leader. StarClan grants him guardianship over RiverClan, to care for the young and old, honor his ancestors and their traditions, the warrior code especially. Live with each life with pride and dignity. And then it was done. Pikestar had completed his leader ceremony and watched Talonkit return to StarClan. He bowed his head in respect, one last time, to the young kitten. There was a whole new life ahead of him and Pikestar couldn’t help but feel excited, even though he was aware of how stressful and serious this job would be. He wanted to succeed where the three before him had failed and make StarClan proud, make RiverClan proud, even make young Fawnpaw proud. Speaking of which, the newly-named leader turned to the medicine cat, blinking at her. “Hey… How’re you doing? After, uh, all that?”

The small brown-furred molly beside him looked troubled, upset even. Pikestar couldn’t blame her, seeing how both Talonkit and Goosefury had spoken to her moments ago. It was… difficult to know how to truly feel towards all of this, which was why Pikestar was trying to look towards going back to RiverClan and making things better. He rested his tail on her back, gently, as a sign of comfort. “It’s okay, Fawnpaw, I’m here for you. Let’s get some rest and we’ll focus on all this serious stuff tomorrow, yeah?” The dark-furred oriental then laid down where he was, tucking his paws underneath him to form a comfortable loaf once more, hoping Fawnpaw would do the same. It was gonna be a big day tomorrow, the start of many, but hopefully it would be a journey worth enduring. It had to be.

⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

birdielumina SpiritedWarrior TheNyanCatMinecart
Poprock Dirtfur Cxndy_Fatal dino. NinjaBloss

[taillow]

Fawnpaw
Awakening in a new surrounding was something Fawnpaw had been ready for - but nothing could have prepared her for the true beauty she would face. Stars glittered all around them, hues of orange and pink and blue blending together to create the most perfect sky she had ever seen. The whispers were still there though, and she wondered if Snowleap still heard them too. But she couldn't drag her eyes away from the array of starry figures before them. There were nine cats that she could see - one for each life Snowleap would receive.

Standing up on her paws she allowed her fluffy tail to flop over to offer a touch of support to the future leader, head turning to bear the same familiar Fawnpaw-smile of encouragement. "You can do this, Mr. Snowleap." She knew he could, that he didn't need her words of reassurance. But if they could aid him in any way during this, then it was worth speaking them.

Soon enough her attention was stolen by one of the starry figures stepping forward. She didn't recognize them, but they knew her name. And now, she knew theirs; Chestnutfall. A RiverClan warrior who had granted a life to Lionstar. Another past RiverClan leader? Fawnpaw didn't know much about the history of her Clan (something she hoped to remedy in the coming moons) but seeing a cat who had been alive that long ago left her awe-struck.

She returned his smile with one of her own, along with a respectful dip of her head. Was he among the cats who had selected her for this position? Or wait... maybe it was Dustymoth, the cat Snowleap had mentioned - was he here among them?? She desperately wished to meet him, to maybe ask why they had selected her. But now was not the time as she watched Chestnutfall press his nose to Snowleap's forehead. The life of gratitude. It would be a good one, a reminder to never take for granted that which Snowleap had in his life.

Turning her gaze to watch as the first life was given, Fawnpaw stepped just a little closer to offer a brush of her pelt as comfort for the new leader. She couldn’t quite tell what the life felt like, or what memories it held, but seeing how tears sprung to his eyes before being quickly blinked away made her touch her nose to his shoulder - something she often did with Beansprout. She was unsure if she was allowed to speak, so for now she offered him a reassuring glance, gaze round and warm with admiration as she nodded.

Chestnutfall’s story saddened Fawnpaw though, the emotion displaying evidence in the form of round, concerned blue eyes as they looked back to the tom. At least he looked happier now. She couldn't imagine dying of starvation - the mere thought sent a shiver down her spine.

Just as quick as it had begun, so it was over and Chestnutfall was already stepping back. She offered him one last smile before his figure was replaced by a cat who appeared to be about her age, maybe a little older. His name confirmed this, and she listened as he gave his name; Maplepaw. An apprentice under Dawnstar's rule - that was ShadowClan if she recalled correctly! A thorn of empathy pierced her as he told the tale of not having been to a gathering. She felt sad for him - they were quite an experience, and even though her first one had been rocky she knew she would never forget the first rush of adrenaline she had felt.

The life of clear judgment. It was a good trait to have, and once more Fawnpaw let her gaze move from the apprentice and over to Snowleap. This one seemed similar to the first, but instead of tears it looked like the new leader had all the air sucked out from him. A flash of worry darted across her gaze but melted into relief when Snowleap came out on the other side seemingly unscathed. That was two lives down, and Fawnpaw looked back towards the former ShadowClan apprentice in anticipation of what was to come.

Maplepaw eventually stepped back into the starry rank and in his place came the first cat Fawnpaw recognized. She had been standing on the rocks with Skystar at the last gathering - Cinderstar, if she recalled correctly. But why… why was she here? Was she? A sudden pang of sadness struck her as she quickly drew in a breath. What had happened? Didn’t she have the nine lives of a leader??

She spoke now of putting the past aside and giving Snowleap the life of hope. Hope. Perhaps the one thing that had managed to carry Fawnpaw through the early moons of coming to terms with the fact that all of her biological family was gone. Hope had been like an everlasting flame, keeping her warm in the darkest depths of her mind.

It seemed as though Snowleap knew her as well - probably better than Fawnpaw had in the brief seconds she had seen the silver bengal. A look passed between them, one shared between friends. As the life passed from Cindersky to Snowleap, it seemed to be the calmest one yet. There were no tears, no quick breathless gasps. Fawnpaw smiled a bit, knowing that’s what hope was. She had no worries over her leader with this life, knowing that it would feel just as serene as she imagined it to be.

After speaking words that were quiet, but loud enough for Fawnpaw to not hear (what hard future??) the silver bengal stepped backwards into the starry ranks. In her place came a very young cat - potentially even a kit. Fawnpaw didn’t recognize her though, so she must’ve joined StarClan before she had been born. Too young to claim a place among the stars, and it made her heart clench in pain. The kit - introducing herself as Barkkit - seemed to pay her no mind which was alright, and instead walked straight to Snowleap. From where the medicine cat sat beside him, she watched the exchange with wonder-filled eyes.

She spoke of how she had been dared to leave camp, and how in turn it had led to her death. Fawnpaw felt pulled to say something, to comfort her, but the kit was still only watching Snowleap and she felt as though it were not her place to interrupt the process of life giving. So she sat with owlishly concerned eyes as the young kit pressed her nose to Snowleap’s shoulder.

As the previous life had done, Fawnpaw could sense that this was warm and happy, despite the tragic beginnings of Barkkit’s story. Wonder-filled eyes moved from the StarClan kit to Snowleap, watching in appreciation as he took in the life with his eyes closed. Not for the first time did she wonder what was going through his mind during this process. Did he feel all of the lives within him? Did they stack on top of one another like leaves? After Barkkit stepped away, Snowleap opened his eye again. The familiar blue hue turned towards her accompanied by a warm smile, and her own widened as she gently nudged him with her shoulder. Gone were the previous musings she had felt at camp and on the journey here; she was certain that this experience would bond the two for as long as they both served RiverClan and beyond.

Just like the cats before, the young kit offered a piece of advice for Snowleap and a respectful dip of her head before turning and vanishing among the other starry pelts. In her place came a warrior that Fawnpaw did not recognize. She introduced herself as Robinwhisker, and how she had died in a battle. There had been one before the one for Firefly Cove? And… wait, what? ”Poisoned??” She couldn’t help it - shock bubbled up and zapped her face as she stared wide-eyed at the StarClan cat. She had been poisoned? Had… Had RiverClan done that?? The ground suddenly felt as though it shifted under paw, and Fawnpaw sucked in a quick breath to keep from toppling over - but the fear and guilt was written all over her face evident for any cat to see as her posture went rigid

No, her Clan wouldn’t do that, right? RiverClan was strong and proud and capable. They weren’t perfect by any means, but it was her home. Noble and kind… but this. This made Fawnpaw’s mind whirl with the revelation that the pedestal she had placed her home upon was, perhaps, built upon fallacies she hadn’t been able to see - until now.

She didn’t seem to dwell on it much, the deceased ThunderClan warrior, and instead turned her face to her. Fawnpaw was doing her best to fight back the tears that threatened to spring to her eyes - had RiverClan poisoned cats in the battle??? - and instead listen to Robinwhisker as best she could. Her position, she had known it would be difficult - but due to not having a mentor to teach her herbs, or medicine cat customs, things of that nature. Not… death. She wanted to be able to save every cat, that’s what a medicine cat did. But with how this cat spoke, would she not be able to? For a brief moment, the young medicine cat looked to Snowleap and in her glistening eyes was a silent plea for this to not be true. She didn’t want any cats to die! There had to be herbs out there to prevent that, right?

”I… I’ll try my best, Ms. Robinwhisker.” Her voice shook a little, but there was an underlying confidence as she looked back towards the starry face with a firm nod. She had to believe in herself. Despite the voices inside her head that yowled otherwise, she knew that for her Clan, she would have to put faith into her own paws. And like the StarClan ancestor had said, she would have her in her corner.

Perhaps it was still because her mind stuck on the poison like cobwebs, but Fawnpaw knew this life would be one of the most difficult so far. Looking to Snowleap she winced as she noticed the tremble that passed through him and instantly she pressed her nose against his shoulder. Her mind concentrated on trying to offer any semblance of comfort or compassion she could muster up to the tall tom. Was he experiencing what Robinwhisker had experienced? He didn’t deserve that. Fawnpaw didn’t really know anything about the incident, but she did know Snowleap. A kind soul who had spoken such soft words to her as a kit many moons ago, promising that violence was indeed not the only answer. The medicine cat knew deep in her bones that he would never have taken part in such vehement acts, and with that conviction she stood close to his side as if to take some of the brute force of the life herself (if only that were possible).

After another moment or two she felt him relax, and Fawnpaw knew that the worst of it was over. Still, as she pulled away her glittering gaze remained on Snowleap compiled of a mixture of concern and questioning. Was he doing okay? Did he… could they take a break if he needed it? She wanted to fetch him some wet moss to drink from, or a poppy seed to lessen the pain - anything more than words she could say to help.

But soon enough Robinwhisker was stepping back. Fawnpaw, still staying close to Snowleap’s side, turned to look back at her once more. That was now the fifth life, which meant there were four more to go. Robinwhisker wished them both farewell, and unthinkingly Fawnpaw stood up and took a single paw step after her. She wanted to ask her about the poisoning, to say it wasn’t true. But before she could take another paw step realization sunk in and she winced, sitting back down. She had the feeling she wasn’t supposed to really do or say anything that might interrupt the ceremony. ”Sorry, Mr. Snowleap,” she whispered in between the next cat, keeping her gaze fixed forward and posture upright.

Replacing the ThunderClan ancestor was a smaller cat, and Fawnpaw felt herself to smile (albeit hesitantly) as young tom introduced himself as Bristlepaw. A former RiverClan apprentice who had fallen victim to a fox. Fawnpaw wanted to shudder at the mere thought but restrained, already feeling embarrassed enough by her step out of place.

Although it did not appear as bad as the previous life, Fawnpaw still watched with a worried gaze. It was a weird, powerless feeling… here she was, standing next to her leader, her friend… her family... and there was nothing she could do to lessen his pain or burden. He had to endure these lives on his own. Even though he was strong and she had full confidence he would be able to get through the remaining lives, she wished there was more her paws could do other than stand still beneath her, quivering every once in awhile in guilt.

Once it was over, Bristlepaw spoke their goodbye before returning to the starry swath of cats. Another cat padded up, this one flashing her a rather goofy grin. It made the rest of the anxiousness melt away and she grinned back, dipping her head in respect as she did her best to stifle a tiny giggle.

So this was a former deputy? Even more so Fawnpaw’s gaze widened as she watched him step forward and began speaking. But… he was exiled? Each death that was made apparant to the young medicine cat struck her in the heart, but Dirtfur’s felt like a different kind of pang. No cat deserved to die alone, no matter their crimes or faults. He reached forward to give Snowleap the life of acceptance, and the young medicine cat turned her gaze towards Snowleap.

Much easier than the last two lives, that much was made apparent by how there were no visible tremors or clenching teeth. Anxiety that had puddled together now melted away, draining through heat at the bottom of her paw pads. Despite this, Fawnpaw still remained close. She wanted not to leave the new leader's side until they were both waking up inside the starcave.

Shock resonated within her as the life ended and Dirtfur also revealed himself to be Skystar’s father. Once more her heart ached for the older tom, but she knew that at least they had reunited in StarClan. She smiled towards him, and dipped her head even as he turned around. Hopefully he had found peace up in the stars.

The next cat… stars. Fawnpaw didn’t know who it was but the way they seemed to command the area made her pelt crawl a bit. Piercing eyes bore into Snowleap like claws, and they only softened when looking at her in brief greeting. Throat clenching, Fawnpaw found herself fighting back the urge to throw herself in between whoever this was and Snowleap. Why did they look at him like that? He was a good cat! He hadn’t done anything wrong!

Though the brown she-cat couldn’t imagine it getting worse, it did. Sour words tumbled from a barbed tongue, lashing out at every previous leader. She didn’t know who Sootflare, Kestrelstar, or Lionstorm were, but Skystar had just died. Brows furrowed as she fought the urge to cry out in defense of the golden tabby leader.

Earlier when Fawnpaw had thought the two lives from Robinwhisker and Bristlepaw had been the hardest, it was clear she had been mistaken. As Goosefury’s nose touched Snowleap’s, the medicine cat could practically taste the sparks that electrified the air around them both. Her whiskers quivered as she fought her natural instinct to place her paws on the new leader's shoulders, to wrap both of them around his tall frame and hug him tight to make all of the pain of the life go away. He didn’t deserve to feel any of that pain - becoming a leader was supposed to be happy and exhilarating, not painful and full of fury.

Still a bit floored by Goosefury’s entrance, Fawnpaw nearly squeaked when he finally addressed her. Keep him in line? Anxiety pulsated in her chest as her emotions fought between fear and anger, something she hadn’t really felt towards another cat until now. No words came to her defense as she sat staring after the warrior, who didn’t fade like the rest of the cats. ”D-Don’t worry about him, Mr. S-Snowleap,” she finally managed in a high whisper, blinking so that any trace of tears would be wiped from her gaze as she looked at him. ”You are a good cat. He’s just… maybe someone put a thorn in his nest.”

The heat from her strong desire to defend Snowleap subsided as the next cat stepped forward - a young kit. She didn’t recognize the little bundle of fur. He introduced himself as Talonkit, and as Fawnpaw smiled back at him (doing her best to ignore the still-burning frustration she felt in her belly) she couldn’t hide the shock that permeated her expression. Snakeheart had never visited the Starcave? Why?? Fawnpaw had thought medicine cats were supposed to - sure, not all the time, but enough to upkeep their connection with their starry ancestors.

He told her to remain open-minded and to only use her words and paws for healing - and instantly guilt and shame flooded through her for how she had felt earlier towards Goosefury. It burned behind her eyes and the young medicine cat did her best not to show it. She couldn’t hold that kind of anger, that kind of rage - even if those cats came after her family. That would be difficult, but she would do whatever was required of her by her ancestors to make sure RiverClan was protected. Showing that she understood, she gave a soft nod to the young kit.

Of course there were plenty of questions that burned within her mind; what did he mean by “if Snakeheart had known that”, then he’d not be here today? Was it a not-so-subtle hint to the cause of his death?? But it seemed Snowleap knew the young kits story, and was addressing him, so Fawnpaw turned to watch the new leader. Maybe there would be time afterwards to ask about what the young kitten had meant by his words. Now though, she simply watched as he pressed his own nose to Snowleaps.

This life, the last life, seemed easier. A combination of all things younger cats felt, she assumed. Heartache, joy, adrenaline, tragedy, excitement. A dizzying collection for any cat to take in, but Fawnpaw knew that Snowleap would be able to handle this last one no problem. He took it in stride, eventually reopening his one eye to watch as Talonkit concluded the ceremony.

And gave him a new name.

Blue eyes growing wide, Fawnpaw watched as Talonkit granted guardianship of the Clan to Snow- no, to Pikestar. It felt fitting almost, and she would have to get used to calling him that. Pikestar. A light, delicate smile unfolded across her face, despite the turmoil that still churned in her mind. He would be Pikestar, and he would be one of the best leaders RiverClan had ever seen, she just knew it. Whatever hardships came, whatever trials RiverClan faced, the medicine cat was certain that her new leader would brave them all with determination and persistence. RiverClan wouldn’t falter, they wouldn’t fall - not with Pikestar at the lead.

And then it was all over. Talonkit faded back into the starry line of cats just as the rest of the group faded into the night. Gone were the glittering star-filled pelts, the eyes that held more wisdom than Fawnpaw could guess at. It left her feeling breathless as she watched, only becoming aware of Pikestar still next to her when he spoke.

She knew well enough that she wasn’t good at hiding her emotions. Still being young, it was a trick she hadn’t quite learned yet, and as she turned to look at Pikestar it was then that the first tear fell. ”It was… a lot harder than I thought it would be, Mr. Sn-Pikestar.” Swallowing nervously she glanced down at her fidgeting paws. ”I’m sorry for interrupting, and getting mad at Mr. Goosefury, and… but I’m going to do better. I promise. I won’t let you down.” When she finally looked up, though there were tears in her eyes they sparkled over the surface of a newfound determination. She could do this. She had StarClan and Pikestar and (hopefully) the rest of RiverClan in her corner.

”Mr. Pikestar… I hope you know you’re like my family. When… When I realized my mama was missing, and all my siblings, you were the first cat who made me feel safe again. You, and Ms. Bluebellcrackle, and Mr. Wormbite, and Mr. Beansprout… you guys are all my family, and I…” Her throat grew tight as she dove nose first in an attempt to dig one of his paws out from under him and snuggle underneath it. She desperately wanted to feel that security again as she finally found herself confessing just how important the tall tom was to her. ”Thank you for making me feel like I belong.” Her last words were soft as she huddled close to the new leader, only after a bit opening her eyes and turning her face to look up at him.

He had offered rest, and to be honest with how exhausted Fawnpaw felt she couldn’t agree more. ”That… sounds wonderful, Mr. Pikestar.” There would be time later to discuss such things, but as a yawn parted her jaws, she found that sleep tugged at her to come. Once again tucking her face back into the fluff of Pikestar’s chest, she found it was easy enough to slip into a blissful sleep, eyes fluttering closed as the stars faded from view.

✩ ◌ ✩ ◌ ✩

It was only minutes, but somehow Fawnpaw felt as though she were well rested upon waking up back in the Starcave. The glittering light from the translucent rock glowed before her, and she lifted her head. Next to her was the new leader of RiverClan, and all at once the memories of the ceremony flooded back. Smiling lightly, she poked her nose against the tom’s shoulder to rouse him if he wasn’t awake already.

[ thepirateking lumina SpiritedWarrior TheNyanCatMinecart
Rockfall Dirtfur Cxndy_Fatal dino. NinjaBloss ]

[Captain]

PIKESTAR
⸻⸻⸻⸻

➣ The tall dark-furred tomcat listened to the young molly, as she voiced her emotions while shedding a few tears. “Fawnpaw…” He meowed gently, lifting one of his paws and gently resting it on her chin, “Look at me. You have nothing to be sorry for, okay? I understand how you’re feeling and I am thankful that you are here with me. You’ll never let me down, please remember that. You and I are always gonna have each other's backs. You’re my medicine cat and I’m your leader.” He truly did sympathize with the small brown-furred shecat and wanted to console her as best he could. “All of RiverClan believes in you. We’re all here to support you through the best and the worst.” Stars glittered around them as Pikestar comforted Fawnpaw, trying to settle her worries. He blinked at her as she went on to admit that he was like family to her and Pikestar smiled warmly. It soothed his own fears from once feeling that he would be nothing more than RiverClan’s leader to her. He had been jealous of how close Beansprout and her were, but the oriental longhair had learned to push those selfish feelings aside.

“Thank you for making me feel loved and appreciated,” Pikestar responded, glad that he had succeeded in making Fawnpaw feel like she belonged where she was: because she did and the dark tomcat truly believed that. He let her snuggle up underneath one of his paws and soon enough, the two RiverClan cats settled down to sleep. The tall clan leader felt Fawnpaw bury her face into his chest fluff and soon enough, he allowed his eye to close. Moments later, both of them were able to allow a peaceful sleep to overtake them, at least for a few minutes.

✩ ◌ ✩ ◌ ✩

The next thing that Pikestar felt was a gentle nudge of Fawnpaw’s nose as she woke him up. His deep blue-hued eye flickered open and he lifted his head, stretching open his jaws to release a powerful, mighty yawn. Despite being in a dream for most of the night prior, the tall clan leader felt like he had slept soundly for the entire night. Thank the stars for that, eh? Pikestar blinked at Fawnpaw with a warm smile. “Good morning,” He meowed, stretching out his front paws as he slowly eased himself into a sitting position. His body still felt rather sore from all the lives he had gotten, but overall, he felt… full of life, which seemed like a rather literal way to put it, but it was how Pikestar felt.

“I’m sure you have many questions that you’ve been eager to ask about.” He mentioned, lifting a paw and licking it before drawing it over his face, “While we’re making our way back home, you can ask me anything you like and I will try to answer it to the best of my ability.” Pikestar spoke softly while washing his face, but soon stopped to look at Fawnpaw again. “Speaking of which, are you ready to start walking back home? Don’t wanna rush you, of course.” Yes, they needed to return to RiverClan as soon as possible, but still.

⸻⸻⸻⸻

( birdie ♥ )

[taillow]

Fawnpaw
As Pikestar stirred beside her, Fawnpaw took in one last look at the cave around her. Stars that had seemed to glisten the night before were now still as the stone no longer held the light of the moon. Early morning rays bled into the cave now and what once had been rather mysterious looked to be just about any ordinary stone. But she could still hear them, the whispers. Circling around her ears and tickling her fur. StarClan, she knew. A knowing smile came to her face as she realized that this was the path she would be walking now; the one of a medicine cat.

Looking back over to Pikestar, she found herself once again flooded with questions left over from the prior night. There were so many things, and the journey back to the Clan would be a long one. Surely there would be time to talk about things as they walked back. "I'm ready, Mr. Pikestar." The new name felt odd on her tongue, but with it came a rush of excitement she was sure that the tom was feeling too. She slowly sat back, then stood to her paws and stretched to chase away the exhaustion she felt in her muscles. They were sore from sleeping on the ground all night, but Fawnpaw felt as alive as ever in contrast. "We should get going soon. I... I do have questions, but it's quite a walk back so I'm sure we'll have time."

With the magic of the night gone, Fawnpaw was reminded of RiverClan and how they would be waiting for them back home. Almost as though her paws knew where to go she nodded to the new leader and began to lead the way out of the Starcave. Through the narrowed tunnel and out onto the moorland above, bathed in pale sunlight. Dawn was peeking through the sky and welcoming them back onto level ground. The young medicine cat gave another stretch and another yawn, drawing a paw up to give her face a quick wash as she waited for Pikestar to join her for the journey home.

[ thepirateking ♥ ]

[Captain]

PIKESTAR
⸻⸻⸻⸻

➣ Hearing the young apprentice state that she was ready, the tall RiverClan leader smiled and nodded. From that point, he stood up, gently shaking his pelt as Fawnpaw soon joined him. His limbs felt heavy and sore, both from receiving all nine lives and also from not sleeping in a soft moss nest, but it was all worth it in the end ― to him, at least, it was. Blinking at the small medicine cat, he silently agreed with the notion that they should get going soon, especially with the state that RiverClan was in. They would talk about what was all on her mind on the trip back, that would take their mind off all the walking and make the tiring journey home less… tiring, so to speak. Perfect.

“Quite right, Fawnpaw. Lead the way.” Pikestar purred contently before promptly following her back through the narrow tunnel and out of the gaping mouth that belonged to the Starcave. The dark-furred oriental feline winced slightly as his partial gaze adjusted to the newfound sunlight, but once he did, the sight of the dawn was utterly gorgeous. Another yawn left his maw, one shared with Fawnpaw as she stretched and washed up. Pikestar looked out to the distant lands, where they would be headed, his whiskers twitching aimlessly. “Stick close to me and we’ll be back home in no time,” The tall tomcat remarked to Fawnpaw, smiling as they officially started walking back.

⸻⸻⸻⸻

( the next post from me will be in a private thread, feel free to write a closer here if you want - birdie ♥ )

[Jayvines]

~ Sparrowflight ~

Brown paws dragged across the ground as the new leader of Thunderclan forced herself up the hill towards the Starcave. Her fur was still a mess, but she hadn't bothered to groom herself before dragging herself to Sundust for an escort up to the mystical cave. Realistically, if she had paused a moment longer she probably would have talked herself out of it once again and slunk back out into the territory to hide. The moon was slightly obscured tonight; thin wisps of clouds blocking the odd star and parts of the moon's shining light. While the gentle glow may have been a comforting distraction at one point, right now it took everything Sparrowflight had to not turn tail and race back home.

She used to be in awe of Starclan and the process of the ceremonies cats went through to gain their blessings. There was a certain whimsy in being supported by the generations before you, especially when the meager bits and pieces of cats she called family seemed to constantly be slipping from her paws. Ridgeclaw's absence still felt like a stone in her chest, her adoptive mother had disappeared again to Starclan knows where, and with the recent loss of Cindersky... But now... All that remained was an ache in her heart, anger at the cruelty of distant stars, and wishes for things to have gone differently.

A pang of grief rippled its way across her body, and she jerkily forced her eyes up to glance at the approaching cave entrance. Was it supposed to feel this empty? A quick glance behind her showed a clear path back to camp. She knew Thunderclan's territory like the back of her paw, she could probably hole herself away for another few days before she had to do this right?... Right?

Releasing a shuddering sigh from her chest, Sparrowflight forced herself to turn back to face the cave before her. No... she couldn't abandon her clan when they had worked so hard to claw their way back to a semblance of the pride they once held. The slightest glimmer caught her eye as she peered into the tunnel's depths; a promise of stars awaiting her if she followed through with this, even if it tore open the wound of grief that seemed to have made it's place in her heart.

"You're... going to have to show me how to do this," she breathed out, barely loud enough for the medicine cat to hear her cracking voice. "I don't know if I can... if I can do it alone... She promised she would be here with me."

Just one more pawstep. Just one more pawstep. Just one more...

Her mental mantra repeated itself in cycles as she forced her legs to move, merely hoping that Sundust would also follow her in. One pawstep. Another. Each movement brought her deeper into the foreboding tunnel that seemed to draw her towards... something. That glimmer of light that seemed to grow in volume as she approached. A final turn and Sparrowflight jolted to a stop, eyes widening at the cavern that opened up before her.

Before her, shimmering like the brightest stars in the sky, was the legendary stone. Emerald eyes drank in the unexpected sight, and a glimmer of hope flared in her aching chest like the dim sparkles reflecting onto the walls of the cave. Perhaps... perhaps everything would be ok.

Stepping carefully into the open area, Sparrowflight shuffled to the side as she awaited the instructions from Sundust. She was fully out of her element here and just hoped that the medicine cat knew what to do.

[ Naiad Let's gooooooo :heartbounce: ]

[beau]

The path to the Starcave had become somewhat familiar to the large ginger tom, even though he had only come twice before. Sundust could not help but recall his near-childish excitement as he came with Cindersky to the cavern, it being his first time. They had come to retrieve her lives. What had happened to them? They disappeared so fast.

His heart sank as once again he was hit with the grief of Cindersky’s absence. She had been such a kind mentor to him. Such a strong leader to ThunderClan, having dragged them out of whatever pit they had sunk into. He thought he might have been able to deal with her death easier had he still been a warrior. He would have no obligation or responsibility over the health of his clanmates. He would not be able to say 'If I were there.. If I just had the right herbs…' But even he knew there would have been no saving her.

A quick glance at Sparrowflight revealed that her thoughts may not be so different from his at the time. The soon-to-be leader was the first to break the silence, and Sundust offered a nod at her words. “Of course. I, along with the rest of ThunderClan, am here to support you.” He let the silence lapse again as they entered the cave. It was pitch black, just as it was in his memory. Technically, this was only his second time visiting the stone, as during the only medicine cat meeting that had been held during his time as a medicine cat, only Reedpaw had gone down into the cave to dream. Still, he had little trouble navigating the tunnel. It was as if the path had been burned into his mind.

Finally, they took that last turn and there it lay glittering in all of it’s glory. Despite how clear is memories seemed, his recollection of the stone’s grandeur seemed to have dimmed, as despite him seeing it before, he still needed a moment to pause and stare. It was even more beautiful, if that were somehow possible.

It took him a moment to realize that Sparrowflight was awaiting instruction. Once it struck him, he cleared his throat and began speaking. “Touch your nose to the stone and close your eyes. Your ceremony should begin after you perform those actions. I will be here waiting when you wake up.” Sundust sat down at the edge of the opening, curling his thick tail over his paws. “I wish you luck as ThunderClan’s next leader.”

(I am so sorry I took so long to respond :heartbounce:)
Jayvines

[Jayvines]

~ Sparrowflight ~

Was it truly that simple?

Blinking once at the tom as his instructions sank in, Sparrowflight looked between the medicine cat and the sparkling stone a few times before finally forcing her paws to move once more. Halting steps brought her closer to the crystalline structure as Sundust's final words echoed throughout her mind.

I wish you luck as Thunderclan's next leader...

Stars above, she hoped the curse that seemed to rip away their leaders ended with her. If she ended up dead in the next few moons she'd be furious with whichever unlucky star was sent down to collect her. Perhaps she'd be able to fight her way back to her body if her ancestors attempted to pull her away too soon...

Pausing just a whisker-length away from the stone, Sparrowflight took a deep breath to steady herself before screwing her eyes shut and jabbing her nose against the stone. Immediately, the cool face of the rock seemed to spread out over her face and down the rest of her body, numbing bits of her as the sensation moved all the way down to the tip of her tail. Vaguely the thought that she may have needed to lie down crossed her mind as the sensation of the world around her seemed to tilt and turn fuzzy...

Bracing for the inevitable impact of stone, Sparrowflight was genuinely surprised when her shoulder hit soft grass instead. The cold feeling seemed to be gone as well... Cracking open one of her eyes, the tan molly was... Stunned wasn't the word to use here; frozen, awed, and terrified seemed to fit better in Sparrowflight's mind as she scrambled up to her feet and kept her eyes as wide as she could and spun to look over the starry clearing she found herself in. Sundust was nowhere to be seen, but he had said he'd meet her when she awoke...

Stars above, it was beautiful here.

Of all the stories Mistyshade and Ridgeclaw had told her about Starclan, nothing compared to the endless sea of stars that seemed to stretch out above her and the lush, sparkling forest that surrounded this clearing she had unwittingly fallen into.

Electing to stay still instead of wandering off to explore the shimmering territory (and potentially getting lost), Sparrowflight plopped back onto her haunches and... Well, she would probably have to wait for some member of Starclan to appear if the stories were anything to go by. So silently she waited, emerald eyes sweeping the beautiful trees and drinking in every piece of starlight she could find. Perhaps... Well at least she knew that Cindersky had been taken to a rather lovely place after she left them...

The thought dimmed her eagerness slightly, and the small she-cat seemed to wilt for a moment before forcing herself back into a straighter position. She had to make it through this, no matter who decided to show their face tonight.

[ jupiter Please tag the person I mentioned earlier :eyes: ]

[poppy]

timberwolf - @JAE Jayvines Naiad

The massive black tabby had found death quite uneventful, for the most part. He had seen his sister and parents, he hadn't seen Thistlestorm (which he was relieved but also selfishly disappointed) and he had seen Littlefox, the mother of his child, but they didn't talk. Why would they? The only thing they had remotely in common was Ashenkit, and they had nothing to talk about involving updates on how she was going because, duh, the both knew. so he had been lonely.

Not lonely lonely, of course, because the soap opera that was ThunderClan since his death was still going on, unfortunately, especially with the recent death of Cindersky, which was the reason that he was standing here, among the starry ranks of his fellow deceased ones. And lucky him, he went first, so he had no way of knowing how to do this. Was there like training that most 9 life giving cats went through? Did he have to do something specific in order for it to work, or did being dead just make him eligible? He hoped vehemently for the latter. it would be a massive blow to Timberwolf's ego if this turned out to be a failure on his end.

Of course, he thought, icy eyes scrutinizing the future leader with interest, surely death gave you a way with words that he failed to possess in life. Dead cats were always wise, so why should he be any different? (wow, death sucked the self confidence straight out of him) Okay. Sundust was present now, so that was his cue. The massive black tabby straightened, and strode forward, offering the molly a loose smile of hopefully assurance. "Hello, Sparrowflight, Sundust. My name is Timberwolf, I died a few moons before the beginning of Cinderstar's leadership." His eyes surveyed both ThunderClan high ranks, tail slicing the starry air of this heaven as he stood. "When I was young, I lost my entire family to the fire that destroyed our home seasons ago. I lost everything to a power beyond my control, but I still blamed myself. I put walls up, and I withered away, becoming someone that I didn't recognize. I was broken, and I never tried to rebuild myself. It is one of the many regrets that I have come to realize, and I'm here to hopefully guide you to be better."

Taking a deep breath, he felt this strange, warm something stir in his stomach. "I have the privilege to grant you your first life, the life of Fortitude, so that you remain mentally strong during any pain and hardships that you may face in your future. So that you can continue to be the best leader you can, even when you feel like you can't go on anymore, and won't crumble the moment adversities reveal themselves." Leaning forward, he pressed his nose to hers firmly, delivering a life that sent a youthful strength to her bones, and a burst of self confidence through her veins, and then once the life was delivered, stepped back.

"I wish you the best of luck in continuing what Cindersky started." He murmured, then stepped back, and allowed himself to fade away into the starry background, tail sweeping the ground, committed to his lonely existence.

[BEAR.]

"What the hell do you idiots think you're doing?"

Ice laced his words as he withdrew from the shadows of the clearing, cold eyes rested on Timberwolf and the others who had gathered around in ceremony. "Are you all so daft you already forgot the circumstances that have led to today? There's a reason Cindersky didn't get her lives handed to her, and a damn good one! Look at how she turned out." A continuation of the forest's worst chain: unworthy leadership. It may have seemed harsh, but to him an early resgination did not manifest the impression of stability ThunderClan needed. They needed someone like Twilightstar, someone who could put the prey where their mouth was and lead.

It was unhealthy for a Clan to burn through leaders so quickly. Even worse, however, was burning through leaders who had lives and were so careless they wasted them. He was determined to force these cats to prove they were worthy of the lives to begin with, because Brokenstar would be damned if he let another Buckstar, Eveningstar or Aspenstar happen.

"No, there will be no ceremony today." His gaze shifted to Sparrowflight. "You have not proven your merit under the role of a leader. Cindersky may have looked upon you favorably as deputy - but so did the Clan when Duskfeather stood where you have.

"Your Clan has demonstrated time and time again, they are not prepared for our gift. Being a leader is more than burning through lives: it's taking responsibility of your Clan, ensuring the prosperity of those under your care and being prepared for any conflict that arises. Not backing down, but avoiding being careless. Too much has been wasted for you to throw away the opportunity given to you."

A step forward, and his muzzle was against her head. As StarClan could give, they could also take. "The life Timberwolf has given you is being revoked. Perhaps one day you will be invited back here - but until you have shown yourself to be capable of handling the role set before you, I don't want to see you in these woods again."

[ Jayvines, Naiad, jupiter, @ anyone else who wants to react ]

[~Fierce~]

~Goldeneyes~
Goldeneyes was watching the beginning of the ceremony quietly, watching as Timberwolf stepped forward to award his life. She liked how Sparrowflight was young and still had her whole life ahead of her. Young warriors were filled with great ideas and could relate to their clanmates on some level. She had the problem of not understanding much of her younger clanmates when she was alive and while she had never found it annoying, it would be better to see someone so young get in touch with clanmates their age.

She whipped her head around to look at a cat who spoke from the shadows and her eyes narrowed in suspicion. What was Brokenstar doing here? She pinned her ears to her head furiously at Brokenstar's words. No ceremony? He possibly couldn't have a say in this. She stepped away from where she was standing and padded into view. "Brokenstar, what the hell do you mean by no ceremony? Sparrowflight deserves her lives. She is a young leader with new ideas that will benefit Thunderclan. She was voted by the clan to be deputy and now she is leader. I can't believe you can't accept the fact that Thunderclan is trying to be fixed by good cats. It's like you don't want it to be fixed." She growled, her tail lashing furiously.

"You had your say in not giving Cindersky lives but not giving them to Sparrowflight is taking it too far. We can't have leaders running around with one life. That's exactly how they burn through leaders." She took a step closer to Brokenstar. "What do you have against Thunderclan? You can't say that it's because she has to prove herself of being a good leader because you weren't there to stop Pikestar getting his lives. It's like you have some sort of plan to make Thunderclan's suffering last longer than it should. A lot of them have already lost faith in Starclan because of everything that has happened. What will they think when Sparrowflight dies because she only has one life?" She bared her teeth, pushing down a snarl.
:heartbounce: JAE. @ everyone else listening :heartbounce:

[SpiritedWarrior]

Maplefoot, the former ShadowClan apprentice who was given a warrior name by StarClan, quickly made his way through his StarClan Clanmates, heading to the cats that were throwing paws over a revoked life. What was Brokenstar doing? Revoking Sparrowflight’s life just because he thinks she wasn’t worthy? It was rather stupid, frog-brained even! Twilightstar had been given 9 lives, just like the other Clan leaders. What he was doing was unfair. He wasn’t even giving Sparrowflight a chance!

“Brokenstar, Sparrowflight was chosen by ThunderClan to lead alongside Cindersky. And they built the Clan back up together. She chose a strong warrior for deputyship. What is going on with you? ThunderClan is a good Clan. Yes, they have their flaws, but they wouldn’t burn through leaders like this if they were given nine lives. Give ThunderClan a chance to be a Clan, Brokenstar! See reason!” Maplefoot was practically next to Brokenstar, but still stayed a fair distance away. “Look, I don’t know what’s going through your head, but Sparrowflight deserves her lives. You’re the only cat present who thinks she doesn’t deserve them.”
JAE. Jayvines Naiad Fierce Roses (not sure who to mention, so forgive me if I missed anyone!)

[stardust.]

(Geckoleap)

Geckoleap stood, Brokenstar? Not giving Sparrowflight a life? Unacceptable. This wasn't okay. She padded over to Brokenstar, "You probably have a good legacy, being first Thunderclan leader and everything. But having no faith in ThunderClan? No thank you" She thought she was going to stay a loner for a long time, but she ended up joining StarClan after getting sick. "Sparrowflight, I'm sorry you have to go through this. This is unnacceptabel behavior for a former Thunderclan leader" If Brokenstar really wanted this to happen to this new ThudnerClan leader, she was not going to be loyal to ThunderClan anymore. "You disgust me" She spoke to Brokenstar, she noticed Goldeneyes there as well. And that was that, "Hello Sparrowflight, my name is Geckoleap, I'm sorry you have to go through this, this is an utter disappointment" She was going to become a kitty pet, but it was too hard. "Get out, Brokenwhateveryournameis" She spoke with a frown and a growl.

JAE. Jayvines Fierce Roses jupiter @/anyone else that arrives

[bubble[error].]

~~Tigerpaw~~

{ JAE. Jayvines Fierce Roses jupiter .Stardust. @/anyone else who comes }

Noise made Tigerpaw run over and found out that Brokenstar was trying to stop StarClan from giving Sparrowflight her nine lives. "Brokenstar!" She growled, ears flattening, claws unsheathing. "Sparrowflight deserves her lives! She was chosen by ThunderClan to be deputy, and now she deserves to be leader! You cannot just stop a naming ceremony, Brokenstar!" Tigerpaw turned to Sparrowflight, smiling warmly. "Hello, Sparrowflight. I am Tigerpaw, a former WindClan apprentice. I am so sorry you have to go through this. Don't worry. We will get your lives." The orange tabby she-cat turned her attention back to the other cat, her sunset-orange eyes turning into tiny slits.

[stag]

”Shut up. Thunderclan has been burning through leaders like fire on dry leaves. It’s embarrassing.” the dark tabby formed from the darker shadows of the dark forest. He was pissed,really pissed. “None of you have seen these leaders rise and fall over and over and over. Broken star holds every right.” the tabby snarled lightly. The apprentice glared at the random warriors of starclan,Brokenstar held every right to not give Sparrowflight her lives.

Brokenstar had ripped alive the life as quick as it was given,a good thing. The dark forest Toms darker aura was clearly out of place here,he didn’t give a damn. This argument was stupid,Brokenstar was the former leader,not anyone else. Embarrassing for everyone involved

Charredpaw stepped forwards,Amber eye scanning through the starry pelts. Meeting Sparrows green ones. “I’m Charredpaw blah blah blah. Old Riverclan apprentice under Lionstars leadership.” a simple introduction to the deputy. Only a deputy,she would forever only be a single lived deputy. All of his bitterness forming in his words. “You all dare shut down a former leader when you are all warriors and an apprentice. Brokenstar has watched Cindersky fail as all of you have. Get it together you sad starclan cats,it quite embarrassing.”

He cleared his throat “why give a clan lives when they have yet to even prove themselves past Buckstars leadership. They burn through the lives with such ease As the rapids drag a cat to drown. Only Two of you are Thunderclanners,why should a Shadowclanner or Windclanner have a say. ” the tomcat scoffed

He padded forwards towards the dead Starclan cats,his tail lashing,rage filling every moment. He watched them shift. He blinked,sharply circling around the group until he reach the spot he formerly stood. The apprentice stared lightly at the starry floor. His dark forest energy clearly doing something to it. Perhaps This is what Thunderclan deserved once in their entitled little lives.

{} JAE. Fierce Roses CreeperLover649 .Stardust. SpiritedWarrior Jayvines {}

[stardust.]

(Barkfuzz)

Barkfuzz, the dead apprentice was given a warrior name not that long ago. He had really been helpful, and didn't wanna die, his parent was at his side, and so many other things. He missed Tulippaw so much, it was so hard. "You should shut up! Former Leader!" He shouted, "Hello, Sparrowflight, I am Barkfuzz, I died as Barkpaw. But StarClan has seen fit in me to give me a warrior name" He spoke to Sparrowflight, "I was a WindClan cat, but I died at just 7 moons by the claws of a badger" He felt so sad.. He died so early in life.. too early.. The pain was real. Barkfuzz never got to make any more friends during his lifetime. He had died early on, and it was so tough. He also noticed the other cats. With their disappointment as well, "I'm very sorry to all of you" He spoke.

JAE. Jayvines @/everyone else

[Doom]

⋆ ☆ FIREBUG ☆ ⋆
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

“That's enough!” A voice boomed throughout the starry clearing as a white-and-ginger tabby stepped forward, pelt bristled and blazing with shining stars, practically radiating with fury. “Fools, all of you! You all whine and argue like kittens. Yes, ThunderClan deserves a strong leader, but a strong and deserving leader is NOT defined by the lives we grant them. It disgusts me that you even think that.” They shoot a slitted glare towards the cats who dared to defend Sparrowflight, claws flexing with each step they took toward the group. “Your arguments are weak, at best.” Their voice suddenly changed to a whiney higher-pitched tone, dripping with mochery. “Oh, but what if she dies and ThunderClan is leaderless again? What will we do? Sparrowflight deserves her lives! Weehhh! Weeehhhh!!” Firebug rolled their eyes at the end and hacked up a low, growly hiss. “FOOLS!”

Finally taking a seat among the group, Firebug squints at Charredpaw. “Brokenstar’s point is valid, and I’m glad at least someone else here recognizes that…though I am baffled by the lack of ThunderClan members here for this ThunderClan ceremony.” Their gaze burned over at Maplefoot, Tigerpaw, and Barkfuzz. Why the hell were they even here? Did they just want a piece of the action? What a disgrace. “These lives are supposed to be earned. Not given out like some charitable handicap.” They exchange glances with the eldest ThunderClan leader, calming the fire in their eyes for just a moment, before drawing their gaze over to Sparrowflight. “Cindersky had to earn her lives, and so should you. I, Firebug of ThunderClan, will also not be going through with this ceremony until you can prove that you’re the real deal for ThunderClan.”

// JAE. Jayvines Fierce Roses .Stardust. CreeperLover649 Evermore Naiad jupiter \\
gentle reminder to avoid double posting so it doesnt get too chaotic before jay can even react :heartbounce:

[Rizo]

~Dewshine | JAE. Jayvines Fierce Roses .Stardust. CreeperLover649 Evermore Naiad jupiter lumina~

Padding forward from where she had been sitting to watch the ceremony take place, the calico shook her head, disappointment radiating from her expression. What a disaster, yet again. The chaos of the living Thunderclan had finally begun to subside, only to be summoned forth among their ancestors. Turning her hazel-green gaze upon Sparrowflight, her expression softened.

"Hello Sparrowflight. I'm not sure if you remember me, but I am Dewshine, Emberpaw's mother," she purred to the she-cat, giving a respectful dip of her head.
"I'm so sorry you have to see this, and be caught up in the dramatics and discourse that seems to have infected Starclan," she added, almost spitting the final word as if she was disgusted. Turning to face Brokenstar, her expression hardened once more.

"Quite frankly this is no way for a former leader and ancestor to behave. We are supposed to guide the clans through difficult times, not provide them with more," Dewshine said, tail tip twitching.

"Since when has Starclan ever decided to forbid a leader from receiving their lives when they were chosen by the previous? Even if Cindersky never received her lives, she chose Sparrowflight for the position of deputy based upon her merit and skill. We are in no place to deny the wishes of the living. Not to mention that perhaps if Cindersky had received her lives, she might still be among Thunderclan, perhaps as its leader, perhaps not. But now we shall never know the legacy she might have had because her ceremony never occurred," she finished, squinted eyes burning with agitation. Turning her attention to Charredpaw, she lashed her tail angrily.

"It is bold of you, Charredpaw, to claim that Cindersky failed when she and Sparrowflight managed to bring Thunderclan out of a deep depression. Cindersky worked hard to get the training of apprentices back on track, to provide some stability to her clan, to expand their reaches to ensure their survival, and guide the clan back to the right path instead of the dark one they were headed down. Nothing is perfect, mind you, but the clan is far better off than it was a few moons ago," she growled. Dewshine shook her head once more, disgusted by the words.

"And since when has death been counted as failure when upon your spirit joining Starclan you get to continue to provide for the living via guidance and comfort? If that is your thinking, then surely you have failed via dying as well, and so have all the cats around you. Perhaps you should try to adjust your perspective," Dewshine mewed to the apprentice, turning away. Her eyes shifted to the last speaker she wished to address, the warrior Firebug. The disappointment she felt was strong, and the she-cat would not tolerate any more of this nonsensical behavior.

"I am a former warrior of Thunderclan, but it seems you have forgotten that upon death, we are all Starclan. You may retain your allegiances to the living, but Starclan provides for every living clan, regardless of borders or allegiance. Starclan is supposed to be one, unified in death. It is not uncommon for the deceased of other clans to attend ceremonies for leaders, as we all have ties that cross borders," Dewshine snapped, her tail having gone from twitching to lashing.

"It is also bold of you to state that Sparrowflight has not earned her lives, or that Cindersky did not earn hers. Have you not been watching? Have you not seen the progress? They have been leading Thunderclan successfully out of one of its darkest times. There is still progress to be made, but that is always true of every clan and every cat, that all must strive to be better. Cindersky believed that Sparrowflight earned the position of deputy, or she would have selected someone else. And you would defy the decision of a leader based upon what, the situation that they were dealt? You would deny the clan the chance to continue to work their way towards the light because the predecessors of the clan left the current leadership with a chaotic mess that is very difficult to clean up? I am ashamed of every one of you that would refuse this ceremony," the calico finished, turning away from the other starry cats. Padding to Sparrowflight's side, she took a seat, wrapping her splotched tail neatly around her white paws.

"I, Dewshine, formerly of Thunderclan, consent to and vote for the continuation of this ceremony."

[Jayvines]

~ Sparrowflight ~

The sudden appearance of a massive black tabby left Sparrowflight doing a quick double-take. Where had they come from all of a sudden??? Were the shimmering stars in their pelt the norm for cays who inhabited this forest beyond the grave?

Stunned into an awed silence, the much thinner molly could only force a nod of acknowledgement to the tom as she tried desperately to keep herself from gawking at the passed on member of Thunderclan. She remembered this cat, although she had never really interacted with them outside of the standard day-to-day activities of the Clan. Solemnly she dipped her head as she listened to his story before tilting back up to accept the touch of his nose along with his chosen life for her... Fortitude. Stars only knew she'd need some of that to have even a chance of withstanding the already growing pressures of leadership.

However, the sudden tidal wave of energy that washed over Sparrowflight was nothing like anything she'd expected. A startled gasp escaped her muzzle as the gaping emptiness that had made itself at home in her chest after Cinderstar's death was filled by an unfamiliar strength and self confidence that she had never experienced before. She had to adjust her stance in order to avoid falling over again as Timberwolf seemed to fade back into the star-filled woods while this foreign energy buzzed through her. She had never felt so... alive. And dazed. Was it normal for her head to be buzzing?

However, it seemed all good things must come to an end with her.

The sudden appearance and speech of an unfamiliar cat shook Sparrowflight more than anything else that had occurred this night. Cindersky... had not received her lives?... THEY were the reason that her sister lay cold and dead in the ground?! Stunned into silence, the tan molly could only stare wide-eyed in horror as the authoritative tom approached and reprimanded her for Thunderclan's failings before pressing his muzzle to the side of her head and draining every last bit of that gifted energy that had at least temporarily filled her chest. She stumbled back, green eyes hollow and unfocused as she tried to comprehend what in the world was happening while the starry woods spun in her vision.

She was... being banished from these woods until she had proven herself?...

Sparrowflight barely registered the appearance of the crowd of starry cats that seemed to appear and jump to her defence; only grasping bits and pieces of their arguments as she frantically evaluated the tom who had tossed her right back into the unsupported turmoil of grief that she carried. Brokenstar... This cat who deemed her unworthy was a previous leader of Thunderclan; and not just any leader, but the first leader. A cat of stories long since past thought she was unworthy to hold the title bestowed on her.

So many star-clad cats approached. Yelled. Argued for her right to this gift. But Sparrowflight could only stare at Brokenstar's assured form, confident in his decision and seemingly not afraid to voice his dissent even when those surrounding him shouted to high heaven that he was wrong. Was she that utterly broken? Was it because of her heritage that she was deemed unfit?

A cat draped in shadows caught her eye, and she warily watched them state their agreement before stalking back around to their place in the clearing. Charredpaw... Perhaps the smoky blackness that seemed to drift around their form had something to do with their name or status in Starclan. Those of the Dark Forest couldn't just waltz into Starclan unannounced... right?

But back to the actual issue at hand.

Forcing her gaze back to Brokenstar, Sparrowflight forced herself to put on a brave face and take one step back up to the former leader in defiance. Perhaps she wasn't good enough for Thunderclan yet, but she sure as he'll knew how to fight for her place in the world. She had done it for 28 moons, she could push through a few more to prove to this ancestor that she was worthy of leading her Clan.

"What are your terms," she called out, forcing the tremor in her voice to steady as the cats around her continued to debate and cast votes for her fate. HER fate, not theirs. "I will not stand idly by as Thunderclan falls back into disrepair, but I cannot hope to please you if I am unaware of what I lack!"

Oh stars above, she prayed she wasn't breaking some sort of Starclan rule by calling out like this. She held no power here as a member of the living, but hopefully at least some cat would indulge her this frantic query. How else was she meant to move forward?
JAE. jupiter @/everyone else

[BEAR.]

[ TRIED TO COVER EVERYTHING i prewrote before riz posted and now i'm on my phone so editing is not fun lol
jupiter Fierce Roses SpiritedWarrior .Stardust. CreeperLover649 Evermore lumina RiztheHuntress Jayvines ]

It was official: the cats who thought they were entitled to give lives were the ones least deserving. "I'm sorry," it's scatching. "Were you not listening? Do you have mud in your ears, clogging them up?

"Having lives does not make a cat a leader. Being a deputy does not make a cat a leader. Having the Clan's support does not make a leader. I don't give a damn if we ourselves picked her: we did the same with Aspenstrike, and what did she do for our Clan? She allowed it to fester, she neglected it, let the other Clans pick over us like carrion. The Clan supported her for the longest time, until a few spoke up. Did you forget that? How the Clan backed Eveningstar, as he slugged through his leadership? I will not allow you all to be blinded by your own self-interests.

"Cindersky did not receive her lives because of the leaders before her. They burned through them, wasted them, spat on the gift they were given-- and for what? So they could resign them to us within moons, so they could carelessly throw them away? This ceremony is not happening in the spirit of fairness: for the trial Cindersky faced to continue until ThunderClan learns to rely on their own wit and skill, and not on the chance of extra lives to spare. What good were those lives when Buckstar was killed? Eveningstar, Aspenstar? Have you already forgotten how reckless ThunderClan's leaders have been, or do you just not care?" Seriously! "I do, unlike the rest of you. Where were you all when I advised the former leaders, cautioned them of their actions before they got out of paw? I was the one who got rid of Frostbreeze, where the hell were you when she destroyed lives? When Duskstar was slipping, where were you? I at least tried to speak sense into her-- the hell did you do?

"I don't give a fish about RiverClan. They're not my Clan, and they've done more harm to us than good. I care about ThunderClan and their progress - and that is why I will not see this cycle continue. You speak of Sparrowflight as if past actions determine how she handles her role, but I have looked into the eyes of Duskfeather at her greatest and watched her fall into the abyss that has consumed ThunderClan. No more. I will not risk you all damning my Clan again!"

They could curse him if they wanted, but Brokenstar was the only one of the bunch that made an effort to improve the situation. He spoke with several of their leaders in the past, tried to be encouraging, tried to caution and guide them... And was met with false promises, betrayal. Time after time, again and again. Cats who were given lives, only to waste them. He ignored Geckoleap, largely because she clearly didn't understand the gravity of his choice here. Same with the kitten, Tigerpaw. "Leave it to the other Clans to stick their nose where it doesn't belong." Of course, ShadowClan and WindClan couldn't possibly comprehend this. They had the stability of leadership. For seasons, they ran under the banner of long-term leaders who cared, who had the passion and drive to leave despite unfavorable circumstances. ThunderClan never had that, with lives. Change only showed under Cindersky's banner, and she was a cat disinterested in the longevity of leadership.

Somehow, a RiverClan apprentice had more sense than most of the cats in the field. Brokenstar noted the darkness that clung to his pelt, but he was familiar with this young cat. "This is not a vote, Dewshine. I will not allow you to go through with this ceremony today."

He'd shred the boundaries of this dream if he must. They would not continue.

"All of the leaders before you are fallen stars. Burnt out. Dead within heartbeats. They lacked the drive to lead, and the common sense to live. ThunderClan needs stability - and contrary to what these mouse-brains think, it's not going to come from the repetition of the past.

"Take control of your Clan. Engage them. Be a leader and exceed those before you, and you will have them granted in time. Own the power already at your disposal and serve ThunderClan - and you will be rewarded with the extra lives."

Fail, and at least ThunderClan didn't have to keep watching cats die over, and over-- with nothing to show for it. "Chin up, Sparrowflight. These cats are trying to make this out to be personal but I've seen cats like you rise up to the occasion, only to let the Clan down. I will not allow you to follow their pawsteps."

[stag]

{} jupiter Fierce Roses SpiritedWarrior .Stardust. CreeperLover649 JAE. lumina RiztheHuntress Jayvines {}

As the dust settles he was…speechless. These cats were truly dumb,The lives that had been given to them,wasted over and over. What was the total lives Thunderclan was given? 36….36 Lives,Gifts that starclan had given all thrown to the wayside for nothing. “Your clan was given 36 lives! THIRTY FREAKING SIX! ” The tomcat muttered loudly “Geckoleap,how long as Dawnstar been leader,Tigerpaw I will ask you the former. Your clans have never had a struggle of leadership in the last 3 Seasons. Windclan has had Twilightstar for 8! Do you see her coming down here every month asking for lives? I didn’t think so. You two will never know what it’s like having leaderships fall,clans left in ruin.”

The Apprentice held onto the last few words longer than needed but he didn’t care. He bitterly turned to Dewshine. “Bold words coming from you. What was your rank again,I wouldn’t know since whenever your here it’s only to give leaders useless lives. I may be from the dark forest but Your clan hasn’t done anything good for any of us. Thunderclan has only brought suffering and disgust, Thunderclan had to be aided by Shadowclan! Shadowclan out of all clans had to help them.” he spoke lightly as he slightly pointed. Brokenstar stood his ground,wonderful. Someone with sense here,FireBug was also in the right. The warriors points being straight to the point and valid in this situation.

The dark tabby stood,the shortest out of the warriors and leader as well as deputy. He was here to say something,Screw if starclan forced him out and back to the dark forest. Charredpaw slowly tunred towards Sparrowflight. “You state you will agree to whatever terms Brokenstar gives but will you truly follow them. Cindersky had to do the same,yet,died. Eveningstar only lasted 3 months as your leader! Only to force himself into a useless battle with Kestrelstar. What will do to prove yourself,Actions do not speak louder than words. Nothing but you can prove that you are capable of changing whatever damn mess your former leaders have done to Thunderclan,Your Clan Sparrowflight. Don’t you dare say how you will ‘Change your way and turn Thunderclan around.’ You all say that,,then what happens? Poof.”

His nearly hissed at the deputy,The anger rising up at each word. Thunderclan had a lot to prove,It was now or never. Charred paw was leaning towards the never option on that one though. Thunderclans leadership was terrible,the only one who did something for the clan was Cindersky,she had only one life. Why give Sparrowflight any special treatment on that section,Why ever give them lives again when they wasted the last 36! Why give them anything!

[Jayvines]

~ Sparrowflight ~

Wincing slightly as Brokenstar rebuked the surrounding starry cats, Sparrowflight stood firm in her place as the spirits around her received his verbal lashing. Finally it seemed that his attention was back on her. Whether or not that was a good thing had yet to be seen, but Sparrowflight listened intently as he spoke of the broken and burnt leadership preceding her. While his words were harsh, there was a piece of her that took comfort in his speech... It reminded her of Ridgeclaw and his familiar lectures in a strange sort of way.

A soft pang of grief washed over her heart as the thought took hold, but the young leader stiffened her jaw and stood a little straighter as she mentally listed out each thing Brokenstar requested of her. Ridgeclaw wouldn't allow her to wallow in self-pity, he'd give her a swift prod to the side and urge her onwards to forge her own path. And Brokenstar wasn't forbidding her from EVER receiving her lives, she'd just have to earn them. And earn them she would.

Green eyes glimmered with the smallest spark of determination as Brokenstar encouraged(?) her, and she gave him a curt nod.

"I won't make any empty promises, but I hope you'll allow me to prove my worth," she finally stated, raising her gaze past the previous leader and to the crowd surrounding them. "I've never accepted hand-outs born from pity, and I don't intend to start now. Thunderclan will have my undivided attention, and I'd hope to have your support whenever you think Thunderclan worthy of it."

That strange falling sensation seemed to be re-emerging in her mind, and a quick glance at her paws alarmingly showed them rapidly fading away. Returning her gaze to Brokenstar, Sparrowflight gave him a final steely nod before her vision slowly went dark...

---------------------------------------------------------------------

Her shoulder collided with the stone floor of the cave with an audible THUNK before a flurry of curses escaped her jaws.

Pushing herself back up to her feet, Sparrowflight gave her (now sore) shoulder a quick roll before shaking out her pelt in embarrassment. Perhaps the next time she did that she'd lay down first... Glancing around the cave, nothing seemed different from when she left. Sundust still sat to the side, the glimmers bouncing off the shiny stone still danced along the walls, and the ground was solid below her feet.

However, she certainly felt different. The hollow, aching sorrow that had been eating away at her spirit for the past several sunrises seemed muted. Instead, a low fiery simmer sat bubbling in her chest, burning away the cobwebs of resignation and replacing them with an almost spiteful determination.

If Starclan needed her to prove her merit, then she would do the same thing she did as an apprentice. Work until her paws dropped off.

"Sundust," she stated, voice much steadier than it was when they had arrived to the cave. "I have my name and nothing more, but... refrain from making that public knowledge. I will only tell you since... Since I don't want a repeat of Cindersky."

Giving him a slightly forced grimace, the tan molly slipped past him and began walking back up to the cave entrance.

"Don't ask me why, but... I'll let you know when I receive my lives. Let's head home."

---------------------------------------------------------------------

[ JAE. Naiad jupiter Fierce Roses SpiritedWarrior .Stardust. CreeperLover649 lumina RiztheHuntress Evermore Thank you all for adding so much spice to this :3 For those of you that were officially chosen for Sparrow's lives, please let me know if at any point you want to be removed from that list. Your cats will be called on at a later date, just not right away :heartbounce: ]

[taillow]

Fawnpaw
She... frankly, she was embarrassed. After how the gathering had gone, Fawnpaw felt as though she wanted zero attention on her and yet, here she was going to her first Starcave meeting... with her father and uncle in tow. It made her heart twist in anxiety but she did her best to hide it. She wasn't upset with them, just at the situation in general. She had wanted to go to the Starcave alone, to show the other medicine cats that she was truly ready to step paw into the world of healing. But now, she would just look like a kid who couldn't defend herself (which, in reality she couldn't, as she had not a lick of battle training under her paws). But still.

With Beansprout and Wormbite beside her, Fawnpaw took a steady breath and turned her eyes to the stars above. They twinkled with a bright light that, mixed with the moon, illuminated her path clear enough so that she didn't have to strain her eyes too much to see what was in front of her. Although she had only been here once, whispers seemed to lead her on, guiding her paws as they fell into the ones who had walked this path before her. It felt magical, and in the distance a lone howl could be heard. But instead of frightening her, the call sounded almost melodic, and the young medicine cat continued on. At least the anticipation of what was to come erased a little bit of the embarrassment she felt.

Rounding the last slope she stared down at the Starcave, the gaping mouth of it dark and inviting. The whispers seemed to grow louder as Fawnpaw approached the entrance, blue eyes going wide trying to peer inside of it. Did... were the rest of the medicine cats already down there? Or did they meet up here? She couldn't detect any other scents yet, so for now she took a seat near the entrance. "I guess we can wait here until the rest of them show up?" she questioned, turning her gaze to Wormbite and Beansprout.

[ Naiad Shade. Ravensong TheNyanCatMinecart x ghostie vellichor - I figured we could kick these back off! And we could follow the gathering schedule almost; whichever Clan starts the gathering will also be the Clan to start the half-moon meetings? ]

[Shade.]

Naiad
birdie
Ravensong
TheNyanCatMinecart
x ghostie
vellichor

Rosepaw was actually glad to be here, for once. While any event involving her undoubtedly ended in disaster, she was desperate to gain more herb knowledge. I mean, we've been doing pretty okay, but I still want to know more. Maybe save the rest of us...Rosepaw's mood was still grim because of the deaths that had occurred, especially Brightpath. ThunderClan's youth, now less youthful, dropping like flies, one by one. She wondered what would become of her, entirely unaware that tonight was the night she progressed on her journey as a medicine cat.

She saw Fawnpaw with two unfamiliar cats. It made sense that Fawnpaw needed escorts, she was actually apprentice-aged, unlike her and Cowpaw, and probably had no combat training.

"Good evening." she greeted calmly, feeling a twinge of relief that she no longer had to deal with Snakeheart at these meetings. Suddenly, a small crow landed on a branch above. It stared down at Rosepaw, as if it was waiting for something, but she was used to that. Little did she know more were coming, probably to Fawnpaw's horror.

(Decided to have the ravens show up now bc it'd be funny but also Rosepaw symbolism)

[wolfie]

== > Naiad Shade. Ravensong TheNyanCatMinecart birdie vellichor

Cowpaw moved through the territory with ease, skipping along the path. He had only gone to one other half-moon meeting; his head was foggy with memory... but Twilightstar had showed him the way! He did stop to take a few... detours, in his defense, there was no defense. He was just enjoying the scenery! Leaf-bare would be upon them and oh, while Cowpaw loved the snow-filled banks - it wasn't his favorite season per say.

Boing, boing, hehe. Ah, the walk to the Starcave was rather nice. Albeit lonely, but the silence could be appreciated. Cowpaw eventually begun to see the Starcave come into view, and he picked up his bouncing pace, eyes wide with awe. It was rather captivating. Oh! There even seemed to be four medicine cats there!

A smile spread across Cowpaw's face, and he quickly frolicked to the entrance. The sudden sprint left the gentle giant partially breathless, but he recovered quickly, waving his tail in greeting. Uhm. Okay, he wasn't sure who was who. There were lots of changes and golly, he didn't wish to make a mistake like last time so, smile and nod. Smile and nod.

<< ============== >>
Wormbite was not a fan of anything to do with stars or more specifically, Starclan. Yet, here he was, trailing after Fawnpaw beside Beansprout. At least it was those two. Both were more than tolerable. Wormbite was unsure of the other medicine cats, but he was sure if he pretended, he did not exist, everything would go smoothly. He could even ensure everyone was playing nice. (Shadowclan.) Wonderful.

The oriental moved silently after Fawnpaw, his ears swiveling to the nearby sounds. It was unnerving. A shudder rolled down his spine, his tail flickering back and forth. All he could do was focus on the pawsteps around him and follow and hope for the love of himself, not to stumble over something. Everything was dark and gloomy. More of Wormbite's taste.

He didn't even realize they had arrived until Fawnpaw's pace slowed and her voice came, asking a question. Wormbite was convinced that was the only option here and that was obvious. Why he was being asked - who knew. Instead, he shrugged his shoulders in response. He stretched his paws out until it hit something solid. The wall of the Starcave?

Wormbite settled into a sitting position, closing his eyes temporarily. They only opened when Rosepaw arrived and then soon did Cowpaw. He offered no acknowledgement to them. Yet, little did the Dark Lord know, a crow rested nearby. His mortal enemy. Ah. How blissfully ignorant he was.

[TheNyanCatMinecart]

~ IVYSNAKE OF SHADOWCLAN ~ (http://www.warriorcatsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=54481)

Ivysnake had never been to the Starcave before. She had heard it mentioned here and there - it was where leaders received their nine lives and medicine cats met up. Or, well, they hadn't gathered here for a while, but Fawnpaw had suggested starting the meetings back up again. She supposed it made sense. Medicine cats were meant to be closer to each other than Clan boundaries usually allowed, and although this concept had bothered Ivysnake at first, she supposed it was useful, and she wasn't as opposed to it now as she'd once been. She did believe that some of the other medicine cat rules were stupid, though. Why not allow them to take mates or have kits, and why were they not allowed to show any rivalry or bias? If Ivysnake had to choose between a dying ShadowClan cat or a dying, say, RiverClan cat, she'd choose the ShadowClan cat any day. And even if she did have enough herbs for the RiverClan cat? It wasn't her problem. Also, why did it have to be called the Starcave? Surely she'd be able to communicate with the Dark Forest there. StarClan could be useful sometimes, but they were weak, soft-bellied, and silent.

The medicine cat apprentice continued padding across the moonlit terrain. Despite the silver-white light, the landscape was bathed in shadow, and Ivysnake turned into a cat made of darkness. Her dark brown fur blended in with the darkness of the landscape while her black tabby stripes, covering so much of her angular body and looking just like ivy growing and twined around a tree, provided a layer of camouflage. Ivysnake's fierce, piercing amber eyes gleamed dangerously. She was not out to fight or cause trouble, but she could very well be. And anyone who wanted to start something had better beware. StarClan could complain all they wanted about ShadowClan's ethics, but Ivysnake had all the power of her Clan and the Dark Forest to face it.

She reached the entrance of what she assumed to be the Starcave. Mingled scents of RiverClan, WindClan, and ThunderClan, the former being the strongest, reached her nose. And in front of her were... five silhouettes. Ivysnake frowned and narrowed her eyes, continuing to prowl forward as she tried to get a better look at them. The smallest one was Fawnpaw, of course; she recognized the dappled coat and gleaming blue eyes, which reflected the light of the moon and stars. And there was Rosepaw and Cowpaw, their white parts glowing in the dark night. But with Fawnpaw, there were two other cats. One was a tall black tom with white spots; Ivysnake thought she recognized him. Ah, yes, Wormbite. He wasn't a medicine cat. What was he doing here? And there was another cat who Ivysnake recognized but didn't know the name of, a seal-point tom who was missing one eye.

Ivysnake seemed to appear jarringly out of the shadows, making her presence known by speech rather than sight. "Hello," she meowed curtly. "I suppose we're waiting out here instead of going inside immediately." Her piercing, sharp amber eyes shifted to the two RiverClan cats who were with Fawnpaw. "I doubt you're other medicine cats. I'm assuming you're escorts?" She gave them a moment to reply before looking down at Fawnpaw with a judgmental gaze. One ear twitched. RiverClan's medicine cat couldn't even go anywhere without not one but two cats trailing her. One made sense - she was an apprentice, after all - but two? Ivysnake stopped looking at Fawnpaw and sat down, curling her tail over her dark brown paws as she waited for everyone else to show up.

birdie x ghostie Shade. Ravensong vellichor Naiad

[beau]

Sundust crested the hill leading to the path to the Starcave, a few paw steps behind Rosepaw. The route to the cavern was becoming familiar, despite the fact that he had only attended one meeting before, which had been… a little uneventful. He hoped this one would be more pleasant; the new medicine cat of RiverClan certainly seemed nicer than the previous.

He lifted his tail in greeting as he approached the group, mewing a quick, “Good evening.” The ThunderClan medicine cat took note of the two cat flanking Fawnpaw, which he assumed to be protection of some sort. A bit odd, considering the medicine cats shared a truce, but perhaps it was because Fawnpaw was so young. Yes, that made sense. It was a bit of a long trek to the Starcave, and Sundust could see why Pikestar may not want an apprentice making the journey alone.

[Pitou]

**Elmshadow**
birdie x ghostie Shade. TheNyanCatMinecart vellichor Naiad

Trekking the shadows of the night, the stoic medicine cat matched his pace with Ivysnake as they made their way towards the fabled Starcave. He'd never been, never seen any reason to visit the cave and he wasn't entirely sure of the need for it. The other medicine cats were now all relatively new, with the disappearance of Snakeheart and regardless, seeking help from the other medicine cats felt pointless. He'd been getting on just fine without feeling the need to grovel to the other clans' claimed wisdoms. To top it all, what was obligating the other medicine cats to give them accurate information anyway? Wouldn't it be beneficial for other medicine cats to give useless, if not downright harmful, information to cripple the other clans? Elmshadow was aware enough of the code of the medicine cats but Starclan's warrior code did little to truly govern the cats of the clans anymore so what was stopping the other medicine cats from breaking their code as well?

Elmshadow lifted his head slightly as the yawning mouth of the cave came into view with a sprinkling of awaiting cats. The night was quiet and the intermittent breaking of it with small talk and greetings made Elmshadow's pelt crawl. He'd always taken more to solitary night treks for exactly such reasons. Ivysnake's question prompted his green gaze to switch towards the cats around Fawnpaw. He recognized Wormbite but the other Riverclanner was only vaguely familiar, unnamed in his mind. His eyes narrowed slightly but he made no comment. If Fawnpaw couldn't handle being a medicine cat and doing medicine cat duties as they were intended then was she truly ready for the position at all? His attention was redirected as Sundust spoke. He gave a small cordial nod in greeting then glanced towards the mouth of the Starcave.

[vellichor]

// birdie x ghostie Shade. Naiad Ravensong TheNyanCatMinecart

beansprout

the siamese cat followed silently, unsure of where he was going. luckily, fawnpaw had been to the starcave before, so he truested her to be his direction. he and wormbite were there to protect her, after all. nothing more, nothing less. beansprout found himself glancing over at the shield more than once, noting the occasional shudders of his shoulders, and flicks of wormbite's tail. beansprout himself felt uneasy as well, as if something was prowling in the night. he felt his heart flutter like a nervous bird in his chest, but he wouldn't show it on his face. he had to be strong and stoic for fawnpaw's sake. he steeled his nerves and kept walking, keeping pace with wormbite.

they were the first to arrive, but that didn't last long. soon, all the other medicine cats showed up. some offered a few words, and others simply threw fawnpaw judgemental stares. the usually kind-hearted tom's ear flattened, and he offered pointed stares in return. he was hoping his scars and standoffish demeanor would help keep the attention off of him. he didn't speak a word, but took a moment to sit beside wormbite, gently brushing the other cat's tail with his own. hopefully this would come across as a gesture of support, as he didn't want to startle or upset the other cat. and with that, beansprout would wait.

[taillow]

Fawnpaw
...Oh. She wasn't entirely sure what she had been hoping for, the but fact that both Beansprout and Wormbite remained silent... it struck something in Fawnpaw. Perhaps they didn't want to be here, walking beside her. Resentment would soon settle into their hearts, what with being asked to protect a cat who froze at every instance; a heart that was suppose to be hardened to the sight of illness and death and yet broke at the mere mention of it. She was sure of it. It was asking too much, after all. Stars, the young medicine cat felt an odd wave of tears rising that had to be battled back. That was awfully sad she recognized and quickly turned her head away to look out over the rolling fields around them. How pathetic it was that she felt embarrassed to have them here, and yet also craved some sort of comforting peptalk before the night began.

And begin it did. Rosepaw was the first to arrive, followed by her mentor Sundust. "Good evening, Ms. Rosepaw-" Fawnpaw greeted, feelings of inadequacy squashed for the moment, "- and Mr. Sundust!" She gave them each a nod with a light smile, not having long before the scent of ShadowClan and WindClan hit her. First was Cowpaw, and Fawnpaw waved her tail. "Hello, Mr - oh, wait." Cowpaw communicated with his paws, right? Fawnpaw had wanted to... well, at least try to come up with something. So instead she propped herself up onto her hind legs and started to gesture with her paws. "Hello... Mr. Cow...paw!" Definitely not the smoothest, and she gave a sheepish smile as she landed back onto all fours.

The next to arrive was ShadowClan, and Fawnpaw turned to give them a smile. And while she had been ready to put the gathering behind (maybe they had both just slept wrong, or had a lot going on?) it seemed as though the mood would follow. Smile falling a little, Fawnpaw blinked as her ears drew back. Something about Ivysnake's gaze... it unnerved her. A flash of fear fell across the blue and she opened her jaw once, twice, then a third time before shutting it again. Elmshadow's narrowed eyes were somewhat worse, and suddenly Fawnpaw felt her heartbeat quicken. Claws seemed to close around her throat and her vision blurred briefly and -

Nonononononotherewhyherewhydidithavetobehere.

"G-Good evening, Ms.IvysnakeandMr. Elmshadow." Her greeting came out rushed as she ducked her head, trying to restore her senses as they threatened to float up high above her out of reach. No, she couldn't... she couldn't do that here. Not in front of everyone. But the anxiety continued to bubble and she had to take a moment to let her gaze zone out onto apparent nothingness. It only lasted a second or two, but in her mind she felt as though there were many screaming voices, all raking their claws over her head and heart and every other emotional spot they could reach. "T-this is Mr. Wormbite aaaand Mr. Beansprout. They're, uhm... with all of the outsider attacks lately, they're... here to h-help." A little hiccup at the end as she felt her paws start to shake a little.

"W-We can go in. I just... I wanted everyone to..." Stars, her mind was blank. There was nothing anymore. The greeting she had prepared, all erased with the two looks from the ShadowClan medicine cats. Fawnpaw flicked her tongue against the roof of her mouth as she looked at the others - Sundust, Rosepaw (was that a crow???), Cowpaw - everywhere but Ivysnake and Elmshadow. "...I-I.." Desperation was settling in, and her eyes silently pleaded for perhaps one of the older medicine cats to start? Someone who knew a bit more than she - and wasn't on the verge of passing out.

[ Naiad Shade. x ghostie Ravensong TheNyanCatMinecart vellichor - the next post can either start the herb exchange or going into the starcave or whichever! fawn is not in a position to do either at the moment unfortunately, i apologize! she will take the lead of whoever does though! ]

[Shade.]

Naiad
birdie
x ghostie
Ravensong
TheNyanCatMinecart
vellichor

Another crow landed on the nearby tree. And another. And a few more.

Rosepaw paid them no mind, she was used to them. They were harbingers of bad luck, it was their job to follow her around. At least, that was one possibility. There were quite a few here, though, maybe there was dome food for them here.

"Yeah, we can go inside and share what we wish to share before we start dreaming." she said, noticing Fawnpaw's desperation. The young she-cat seemed polite, and a tad traumatised, which made Rosepaw relate. She gave polite nods to the other medicine cats abd headed over. She'd literally never seen the Starcave before.

[wolfie]

== > Naiad Shade. Ravensong TheNyanCatMinecart birdie vile velli

Wormbite's ears perked up at the sound of pawsteps approaching, moving his head in the direction. The scent of pine clung to them and while he couldn't put a name to them, he would assume they were from Shadowclan. He offered no response to their question, only a raised eyebrow. Was it not obvious? Wormbite found the idea of him ever being in a healing role rather amusing. He wasn't particularly against it, but he did carry no interest... and with his set of morals, he was better off as a shield.

The oriental closed his eyes, paying no mind to the other medicine cats as they arrived one by one. There was an interesting .. atmosphere. Interesting. He was most definitely going to fade out of existence as it went on, that was indeed the plan.

He stiffened at the light touch against his own before realization came and Wormbite relaxed. It was only Beansprout. The corners of his lips twitched, and he returned the subtle gesture, opening his eyes.

His attention was diverted by Fawnpaw and suddenly he was aware of how her quick her voice came, a light quiver in her tone. Wormbite was already rising to his paws, alarms going off with worry before pausing in his movements. Nothing seemed hostile and he was ever aware of how cautious one had to be with showing weakness. Nonetheless, bringing attention to Fawnpaw may only stress her out more. With a frown on his face, he only sat down when it seemed Rosepaw was taking the lead - hopefully it would offer their medicine cat an escape. If not, Wormbite had his ways.

He let out a quiet sigh, wrapping his tail around him. Still unaware of the crows. Terrifying. His enemy lurked only a few tail-lengths away..

====

Wa..whaat...? Who? Pardon? Cowpaw tilted his head to the side quizzically when Ivysnake mentioned escorts? (That was Ivysnake, right? It sounded like her..?) Ooh gee, smile and nod... smile and nod... wait, when did Ivysnake even arrive? Oh stars, had she been here this whole time and the medicine cat didn't notice? ... smile and nod!!!

Cowpaw perked up when ,, ,, Sundust arrived, his familiar voice was nice to hear and the gentle giant waved his tail in greeting. Ivysnake and Sundust were here. Could he assume Rosepaw was also? And.. the small one must be... his nose twitched, ... Fawnpaw? Fawnpaw! Yes! He was improving, how nice. He wasn't sure who the escorts were but, he made sure to wave his tail towards them too. Manners were very important. Especially with, well, everyone? Ooh, wait, why were escorts here? Most likely Fawnpaw? That did seem to make sense. Cowpaw had Twilightstar escort him first time around so, he did not lose his way.

He was not good with directions.

Another cat seemed to step out of the shadows and going off the silence, Cowpaw believed this was the lovely Elmshadow! He gave a respectful dip of his head, la, la, la. This seemed to be everyone? Goodness! He was filled with sunnyfluff, how simply divine it was to have everyone here on this wonderful occasion.

He turned his head towards Fawnpaw who begun to speak towards him but soon shifted into, gestures? Gestures!!! Oh!!! Oh, MY!! Riddle him a hog on a log, he was beaming with happiness at the simple act of kindness. Cowpaw tapped his paws excitedly against the ground, unable to contain the sparks of joy that erupted from him. He wasn't sure if she would understand but rising slightly on his hindlegs, he lifted both of his paws with wobbly balanced and made a small cupping motion before sinking back down to his all four paws. Then, he proceeded to point towards Fawnpaw. "How... are you..??!" Cowpaw inquired.

He wasn't sure what happened in the simple moments but oh no! Fawnpaw seemed to be shaken up? Huh? Then, he caught sight of a... ooh, scary black cat with a very scary glare rising to their paws... and then Rosepaw was leading them inside but, but, Cowpaw didn't want to leave Fawnpaw out here or just, just bypass her feelings? Or was this one of the situations where you weren't supposed to bring it up..?? Quick.. quick.... need... to do something.. !!

He picked an orange leaf from the ground, only had just recently fallen - and he offered it to Fawnpaw with a smile. He would then follow behind Rosepaw, bam. He didn't bring it up but he, kind of gave a gift so, so!! Maybe that would cheer her up. If not, he had other like, ways!

[TheNyanCatMinecart]

~ IVYSNAKE OF SHADOWCLAN ~ (http://www.warriorcatsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=54481)

Not far behind Rosepaw was Sundust, who came up to the group and greeted them quickly. Ivysnake offered nothing more than a flick of one ear in response. She'd never really liked Sundust and didn't hold much interest in him. But because of her medicine cat status, she assumed she had to treat him as an equal, or at least as an ally of some sort. I don't have to entirely, though. Elmshadow and I are better than Sundust, that's for sure, and we won't be allied all the time. But the black-striped tabby didn't say anything. Speaking of Elmshadow, he was there, staying beside her. He didn't look very comfortable among the other medicine cats. Ivysnake didn't blame him, but she knew that the medicine cats were too soft-hearted to break their part of the code, so the truce would hold. Having close relations with cats in other Clans was unusual - Ivysnake would've snarled at the very concept of it back when she was a warrior - but she understood the differences between warriors and medicine cats. That didn't mean that she had to respect them all the time, however. And those two RiverClan warriors certainly weren't supposed to be here. But they thought that the sensitive Fawnpaw was too fragile to travel alone, so she assumed they had gone to escort her.

Ivysnake's sharp, piercing amber gaze traveled to the small seal-point whose name she didn't know. He was giving many of the others pointed stares, and the medicine cat apprentice returned it steadily. He hadn't answered her question, so perhaps the other RiverClan cat would. Or not. Ivysnake didn't care much, but this was a meeting of medicine cats, not medicine cats and warriors. Speaking of the RiverClan cats, Fawnpaw had smiled at her and Elmshadow, but she suddenly looked afraid and tense. What was wrong with her? Ivysnake didn't like soft-hearted, weak cats, but Fawnpaw seemed to be proving to be both of those things. In fact, the dappled she-cat seemed to try and be friends with everybody when the alliance between medicine cats was more of a courtesy. Pikestar should've picked a different cat, not a blubbering apprentice.

Fawnpaw greeted them very nervously and froze for a couple of seconds before introducing her companions. Ivysnake recognized Wormbite, but the other, Beansprout, was new to her. She looked at them for a moment before offering a terse nod. So, they're here to protect her from the Outsider attacks. She supposed that made sense, although part of her suspected that it also had to do with Fawnpaw's cowardice. Ivysnake went to see what the other cats thought of all this. Some crows were settling around Rosepaw, who was agreeing with Fawnpaw's statement of going inside. Wormbite appeared to be tense, acting like he was about to protect the pathetic apprentice before relaxing a little. What, did he think Fawnpaw was in danger? Even though there was a truce? Ivysnake wouldn't have minded giving her - all of them - a good reason to be tense, though...

Enough of that. Time for business. Ivysnake rose to her paws, looking at Cowpaw as he gestured. That reminded her, she wanted to see if she could learn any of his paw gestures. It might benefit her communication with both him and her deaf apprentice, Centipedepaw, although the signs the massive medicine cat used were different from the ones Centipedepaw used. "Yes, let's go inside and get this meeting started," she meowed in her lower, hard-to-read but still serious voice. "There's a lot we must go over. Before sharing tongues with-" oh, right, the other medicine cats groveled to StarClan. But Ivysnake certainly wouldn't. "-our ancestors, we should talk a little. Perhaps go over herb knowledge, as most of us didn't have previous mentors to teach us. And Cowpaw, perhaps at some other time, you could teach me some of your paw signs." She caught Elmshadow's eye and gave him a tiny nod. She wanted him to know that she wasn't being soft and groveling to the other Clans - the information they learned here would benefit them and ShadowClan. If Elmshadow didn't get the hint, Ivysnake would speak with him later.

Turning back to Cowpaw, she added, "When are you getting your full name? You've been a medicine cat for a while, if I remember correctly."

birdie Shade. x ghostie Naiad Ravensong vile velli

[beau]

Sundust followed the rest of the group into the Starcave, shooting a concerned look towards Fawnpaw but deciding not to say anything about her apparent distress. The medicine cat was admittedly not skilled at comforting others, and found things went much smoother if he let someone else take care of that job - which Cowpaw seemed to be doing wonderfully.

His ear twitched as Ivysnake spoke, suggesting exchanging herb knowledge before meeting with StarClan, and the prospect shot a twinge of excitement into Sundust’s chest. The herbs Cricketpaw had taught him and Rosepaw were invaluable, but he still often found himself frustrated with the limited herb knowledge he had. “Yes, that’s an excellent idea. Rosepaw and I know the same things - having been appointed at the same time and all. Off the top of my head, we’ve learned about cobwebs, marigold, burnet, and daisy.” He paused to glance towards his apprentice, “Is there anything I’m leaving out?” The glance held a heavier, slightly excited edge to it as well; a subtle reaction to Ivysnake’s query about Cowpaw’s full name. He wondered if there would be two apprentices receiving their full names today.

birdie Shade. TheNyanCatMinecart Ravensong x ghostie vellichor

[Pitou]

**Elmshadow**
birdie Shade. TheNyanCatMinecart nocturnal naiad x ghostie vellichor

The dark medicine cat watched silently, his expression remaining ever stony as the other medicine cats and apprentices exchanged pleasantries and greetings, fiddling over the progression of getting into the Starcave. Elmshadow wasn't sure what he was going to do or which of his ancestors he'd speak to. He'd been a religious cat for as long as he could remember but the views on the Dark Forest and Starclan seemed muddled and unimportant to Elmshadow. It was no secret, at least among Shadowclan, that Dawnstar aligned with the Dark Forest and Elmshadow would venture to believe that Ivysnake, being of Dawnstar's adopted kin, also aligned herself similarly. Elmshadow wasn't sure he cared to see the distinction as so many other cats did. Of course other clans seemed to view them good versus evil, the prevalent view in Shadowclan seemed to be rule followers versus strong ambition. If a warrior was strong and benefitted their clan, Elmshadow wasn't sure it mattered where they ended up and thus the two were just one in the same.

He glanced at Ivysnake as she joined in on the small talk with the other medicine cats, bringing up sharing herb knowledge. As much as he disliked conversing with the other clans, he was growing to understand the benefit of it and appreciated having Ivysnake for the clan to assist in that area. As Rosepaw made the first move towards the Starcave, Elmshadow followed. Sundust was quick and easy about sharing their knowledge, though Elmshadow was unsure if he was sold on believing that was the totality of what they knew. Cobwebs, marigold, burnet, and daisy. Elmshadow saw now the appeal of the benefits Ivysnake spoke of. The mention of burnet, an herb he had no knowledge of was tempting. Could knowledge truly be so simple to obtain? But how would he know if Sundust was telling the truth or if it were all a ploy? At least it would give him a starting point, much like Coldamber's knowledge. He hadn't yet found Coldamber to have lied to him but he also couldn't be sure Coldamber was an enemy. "Burnet," he meowed measuredly. "That's one I don't believe I'm familiar with. I've found most of our use in marigold and poppy seeds, and of course cobwebs."

[Captain]

PIKESTAR
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

➣ It was late into the afternoon when the tall dark-furred tomcat slipped out of camp without saying a word to anyone. They’d all assume that he was going for a walk, or just doing his daily rounds of the borders. And Pikestar would allow them to all think that, as he headed through the undergrowth in silence, the only sound being the sound of his large paws brushing through the autumn leaves. The air was cold, despite the sun being out, and it made the oriental longhair feel very isolated in a way, like he was alone in a dark cave, or floating underwater in the depths of the ocean. Nothing felt real. On the outside, he was eerily calm, but just under his skin he felt like he was about to explode, about to snap, about to just shatter into a million pieces. He had tried so hard to do all of this right. Be better than those before him. But he just couldn’t. At the end of the day, Pikestar was just like them. Maybe worse. It was his worst fears realized. Perhaps he was the worst leader RiverClan had ever had in history.

Long, mind-numbing minutes passed where the RiverClan leader just walked. Walked and walked and walked. He said nothing, or even looked anywhere else than ahead of him. At some point though, Pikestar would reach his destination: The Starcave. Nobody was expecting him here. He stood before the mouth of the cavern, his paws beginning to tremble and threaten to make the large oriental longhair collapse where he was. But instead of allowing that to happen, Pikestar continued onward. Into the dark, winding caves that felt ice-cold to the touch. He had been here before, moons ago, when he had received his lives with Fawnpaw. Now she was gone. Like so many others. Those kind of thoughts bounced around in the RiverClan leader’s head aimlessly before he entered the open cave with the large crystal in the middle. It was so much different than seeing it at night.

Pikestar stood before it, looking up and around at the cave, wondering who was watching him now. “...I’m done.” Those words left his parted jaws in a low murmur before he’d speak up, “You hear me? I’m done!” His voice echoed in the vast cave as he stood there, alone. “...I am not…strong enough for this. I can’t… do this anymore.” The more Pikestar spoke, the more broken, scratchy and battered his tone became. “Take back your lives. Take back this name… I DON’T WANT IT ANYMORE!” His entire body shook as he yowled that last part at the top of his lungs, tears springing from the corner of his eye. “...I don’t want this anymore. I don’t want to be my clan’s leader anymore. I-I can’t handle it. I can’t take one more day of this torment and misery...” His eye squeezed shut and he shook his head violently, uttering another pained yowl into the emptiness. “...I am a coward. I am a goddamn joke. The cats of RiverClan do not deserve this pathetic excuse of a clan leader…” He cried out, his voice hiccuping. All those who doubted him were right. All those who counted on him were to be disappointed. “I have reached my breaking point. I can’t do this anymore. Kill me if you must, command me to run from these lands forever, just take back these lives and this name and GIVE THEM TO SOMEONE ELSE!” Pikestar's entire body shook violently as tears ran down his face. He felt like he was on the verge of blacking out.

And he did. Soon enough, the oriental tom would topple over, falling against the crystal's cold surface and sink to the cave's floor. Whether or not his words would be heard, or if any StarClan cat would come to his call... that was a completely different matter. He was a coward. A quitter. A joke. A pathetic fool. Nothing. And he wanted to admit that for all who could hear him.

⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

{ Open for any significant StarClan members. Whether someone responds to Pikestar or not is up to you. }

[bubble[error].]

~~Tigerpaw~~

{ canineantics @anyone else }

Being the little cheerful ball of energy that she was, Tigerpaw always wandered to where living cats would visit StarClan. When she got there, though, she heard a living cat. He sounded sad. REALLY sad, and that made Tigerpaw very unhappy.

Oh. It's Pikestar. She suddenly felt her ears strain and heard the yelling. He... wanted to stop being a leader? The orange tabby she-cat waited until the tom had entered StarClan and she walked up to him. The former WindClan apprentice stared up at the RiverClan leader.

"You... want to stop being RiverClan's leader? Where's your deputy?" Tigerpaw asked. "I'm Tigerpaw, by the way." She added, smiling but frowning again, looking up at the tall tom.

[stardust.]

> Oaksong <

Oaksong was lazy, of course! That's her whole point of being in StarClan! She did nothing! Hahaha! She suddenly woke up, hearing a familiar voice. I'm surprised he's leader, she thought, he's a weakling. "Yeah! You're right! You shouldn't be leader! I keep on telling you RiverClan cats that you are weak and deserve NOTHING!" It definitely made sense, considering the failures that Skystar, Kestrelstar, Fallenstar, Sootstar and Pikestar were. The only leader she liked was Lionstorm, which wasn't saying much. Also, hopefully Mistypaw and Birdpaw were dead. Oh! And Wormbite, Otterfluff and Heronflight too! Wow, I'm surprised I'm here. She thought, that was a thought that ran through her head so many times.

"Return your lives! Now!"

// canineantics \\

[Doom]

"That's enough, Oaksong." A familiar voice echoed. "Pikestar, get up."

Chestnutfall padded up to meet Pikestar's body, looking down at him with disappointed green eyes. A couple other StarClan members had beat him to the scene, but he needed to be here. He wasn't expecting them to meet again until Pikestar's death in the far FAR future, but alas, not even StarClan could predict everything. He also wasn't going to let his Clan's leader struggle like this. If the RiverClan leader needed a good talking to, then the starry warrior would be more than willing to give it to him.

canineantics Ghostly Stars CreeperLover649

[edit: also friendly reminder to remember roleplay etiquette and not progress the roleplay too much before others can respond ♡]

[beau]

Silt’s green eyes peered from the edge of the group, watching the commotion with nothing other than neutral curiosity. His starry pelt glimmered as he began pacing, listening to the other StarClan cats’ response.

He shot a nasty look towards Oaksong, and found himself wondering how on earth she had made her way into StarClan. What a horrible soul; sure, Silt wasn’t the most well-mannered cat, but he knew there was a time and a place for sharp words, and this was neither.

For now, the little tom just watched. He didn’t know much about this.. fish-smelling cat, but clearly they were in a rough place. His eyes flicked to Chestnutfall as she addressed the distressed leader, inquisition sparking in them as he looked back and forth between the two cats.

canineantics lumina Ghostly Stars CreeperLover649

[Rose]

Fallenpaw
| She/Her | Former ShadowClanner |

From the far back recesses of The Starcave, dark pelt shrouded in shadow, the former ShadowClanner watched with muted interest. Her left ear flicked, and Fallenpaw herself felt an emotion creeping up into her senses. Was it wonder? Bewilderment? The line on her maw that was her mouth pulled downward in a confused frown. It was rather strange being a StarClan cat, moreso seeing an alive cat willingly visit these lonely, -in her case-, lands.

But alas, she had poorly misjudged, as a moment after she wondered on the fact, the dark-furred cat, who on closer inspection she recognized as Pikestar, began speaking. Or... If one could call it speaking. Ears flattening against her skull, Fallenpaw shrank back further into the shadows as the leader's voice resounded in the cave. He didn't... Wish to be leader anymore? Why? What had happened? Her emerald orbs crinkled with a new unfathomable emotion. Pity? Concern for the RiverClanner?

Before Fallenpaw could ponder on these strange plays on emotion, a new cat strode forward, someone who announced herself as Tigerpaw. A fellow apprentice then, although Fallenpaw didn't know what Clan they'd been from. Letting the shadows fall over her already black pelt like a cloak, Fallenpaw's emerald gaze shone in the dark like the jewels they were labeled after. Green eyes couldn't help but narrow with irritation as a grating voice seeped through her mind, mentally causing the young she-cat to flinch. Seriously, she was an apprentice and she knew proper manners.

Fallenpaw had definitely not expected non-ShadowClanners to behave so rudely. If Fallenpaw hadn't already sworn to herself that she would not interfere and cause further stress, she would have given this idiot a piece of her mind, no matter how off-track it was at the moment, seeing as it'd barely been a moon since she'd entered StarClan. Soon enough, she had a name for the loud mouth; Oaksong, as a new cat called her. Fallenpaw, despite how respectful she usually was, dearly hoped that this Oaksong hadn't taken up singing when she was alive. That really would have been a catastrophe.

Shaking herself to return her thoughts back to the topic at hand and refrain from mentally shooting barbs at other dead cats, Fallenpaw was put a little at ease as the new cat ordered Oaksong to stop, and then turned to Pikestar. At least now that Oaksong was no longer saying otherworldly rude stuff, Fallenpaw was content to sit back and watch.

[ Won't mention anyone here, and feel free to overlook her if you'd like, as Fallenpaw is merely watching. She isn't even important to these cats, as she's a former ShadowClan apprentice. ]

[puppeteer]

hawktalon

A large, cinnamon colored tom had emerged slowly from where the other StarClan cats had. He watched as a new leader - Pikestar, he believed - was laying on the ground. He let out a soft and gentle sigh, not in anger or irritation, but in pity.
Hawktalon of ShadowClan, a once fierce and fiery warrior who wanted nothing more than to live now pitied the living. He wouldn't be able to do that. He could never live again. Maybe visit his children in dreams, but that was about it. Nothing more nor less. Hawktalon did not have the strength in him anymore. But he would keep those who came to the Starcave living. He would sacrifice every star on his pelt to make sure they were breathing.

Pushing past Oaksong and Chestnutfall, Hawktalon got down, ĺaying close to Pikestar. "Pikestar, you do not know me, but i must beg of you; you must keep living. I know it is hard, friend. Trust me. Everyday I wish I could make it much easier, but neither I nor any StarClan cat can make it easier." He let out a gentle sigh before stiffening, bristling at the cruel words being shot at the leader in front of them.

"How dare you speak so harshly against a leader! You know not of their struggles or how his grief affects him! They are struggling, and it is our job to assist them and lead them back to the path laid out before him." Massive head whipping around, leaf green eyes narrowed to glare angrily at Oaksong; hatred and disgust writhed within the depths of the gaze. Many cats were surrounding the leader, few of them encouraging.
He saw a young cat, not much older than his own kits would be, and instantly felt nauseous. How is a young cat such as her stuck here? He would communicate with her later, but turned his attention back to Pikestar.

Paternal feelings awoke in the large toms chest, and he found himself starting to care for the leader in front of him. Soft words rumbled out of his chest; he no longer saw a leader. He saw a kit, one who needed help, guidance, cheering on. Someone in their corner. Pikestar just needed... someone. Someone who wasn't going to disappear or die on him unexpectedly. Someone just there. He gave the oriental a hug, licking the cats fur in hopes they would appreciatethe gesture.

{ canineantics lumina Ghostly Stars Katulaura - Fallenpaw mention }

[dino.]

// canineantics Ghostly Stars ;; only mentioning those directly interacted with

"Shut that vile mouth of yours before I do it for you, Oaksong."

A gray pelt flecked faded into view in front of Pikestar. His expression was disdainful, disappointed, angry, directed now onto no present cat except for the one who had collapsed on the floor. His single green eye burned with emotion that might have seemed too dark for a warrior of StarClan, and even the stars within his pelt, which almost appeared to be too dim, flickered with the same feeling. His claws sank into the ground he stood upon, and the hint of a snarl tugged at his upper lip.

Goosefury was sick and tired of handling the same old spiel time and time again. He had dealt with Pikestar before, had told him what the expectations and stakes were, had explained clearly what would happen should failure strike again. And yet here they were.

"Stand up or I will drag you to your paws myself," he spat forcefully. "Have you forgotten so easily what I told you the last time we spoke here? Stand up!"

[SplashyLumi]

PIKESTAR
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

➣ It was late into the afternoon when the tall dark-furred tomcat slipped out of camp without saying a word to anyone. They’d all assume that he was going for a walk, or just doing his daily rounds of the borders. And Pikestar would allow them to all think that, as he headed through the undergrowth in silence, the only sound being the sound of his large paws brushing through the autumn leaves. The air was cold, despite the sun being out, and it made the oriental longhair feel very isolated in a way, like he was alone in a dark cave, or floating underwater in the depths of the ocean. Nothing felt real. On the outside, he was eerily calm, but just under his skin he felt like he was about to explode, about to snap, about to just shatter into a million pieces. He had tried so hard to do all of this right. Be better than those before him. But he just couldn’t. At the end of the day, Pikestar was just like them. Maybe worse. It was his worst fears realized. Perhaps he was the worst leader RiverClan had ever had in history.

Long, mind-numbing minutes passed where the RiverClan leader just walked. Walked and walked and walked. He said nothing, or even looked anywhere else than ahead of him. At some point though, Pikestar would reach his destination: The Starcave. Nobody was expecting him here. He stood before the mouth of the cavern, his paws beginning to tremble and threaten to make the large oriental longhair collapse where he was. But instead of allowing that to happen, Pikestar continued onward. Into the dark, winding caves that felt ice-cold to the touch. He had been here before, moons ago, when he had received his lives with Fawnpaw. Now she was gone. Like so many others. Those kind of thoughts bounced around in the RiverClan leader’s head aimlessly before he entered the open cave with the large crystal in the middle. It was so much different than seeing it at night.

Pikestar stood before it, looking up and around at the cave, wondering who was watching him now. “...I’m done.” Those words left his parted jaws in a low murmur before he’d speak up, “You hear me? I’m done!” His voice echoed in the vast cave as he stood there, alone. “...I am not…strong enough for this. I can’t… do this anymore.” The more Pikestar spoke, the more broken, scratchy and battered his tone became. “Take back your lives. Take back this name… I DON’T WANT IT ANYMORE!” His entire body shook as he yowled that last part at the top of his lungs, tears springing from the corner of his eye. “...I don’t want this anymore. I don’t want to be my clan’s leader anymore. I-I can’t handle it. I can’t take one more day of this torment and misery...” His eye squeezed shut and he shook his head violently, uttering another pained yowl into the emptiness. “...I am a coward. I am a goddamn joke. The cats of RiverClan do not deserve this pathetic excuse of a clan leader…” He cried out, his voice hiccuping. All those who doubted him were right. All those who counted on him were to be disappointed. “I have reached my breaking point. I can’t do this anymore. Kill me if you must, command me to run from these lands forever, just take back these lives and this name and GIVE THEM TO SOMEONE ELSE!” Pikestar's entire body shook violently as tears ran down his face. He felt like he was on the verge of blacking out.

And he did. Soon enough, the oriental tom would topple over, falling against the crystal's cold surface and sink to the cave's floor. Whether or not his words would be heard, or if any StarClan cat would come to his call... that was a completely different matter. He was a coward. A quitter. A joke. A pathetic fool. Nothing. And he wanted to admit that for all who could hear him.

⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

{ Open for any significant StarClan members. Whether someone responds to Pikestar or not is up to you. }
Koipool heard the call. Pikestar, no, no, no, no ,no ,no! The thoughts ran through her head. “Um, Pikestar. We could but are you really sure about this?” She asked, waiting for confirmation.

[Rizo]

~Ebonyfur | dino. canineantics (also only mentioning those interacted with, but feel free to react to him~

Out of the starry mist padded a kind-faced cat, pelt black as night flecked with stardust. His bright green eyes showed sympathy as he looked upon the long-haired tomcat. Turning his attention to the former Shield, Ebonyfur smiled.
"Peace, Goosefury," he chimed, his tone level and gentle. "Surely we can come to a reasonable compromise without having to resort to rage."
Turning his gaze back to the distraught leader, Ebonyfur placed a gentle paw on Pikestar's shoulder.
"Pikestar, you do not know me, but I know you. Thank you for being such a good friend to my daughter, Moonfrost," he purred gratefully before taking a seat and wrapping his tail elegantly around his paws.
Taking a breath, the black tom spoke again.
"Truly you have been through more tragedy in this lifetime than any one cat should have to endure. But you must remember that you are not alone in your suffering. The weight of the entire clan is not yours alone to carry," Ebonyfur consoled, gesturing with his tail to Goosefury.
"You may feel like you have to maintain a certain façade for Riverclan, or as though you are not enough. Those doubts and fears, those are what make you alive Pikestar. Your weaknesses are also your strengths if you can acknowledge them and find ways to fill the gaps. You do not need to provide everything for your clan yourself. Lean on your friends. Rely on your Shields. Let them provide what you cannot. Do not break your own back carrying the weight alone. Clans are stronger when bonded together. To do that, you must speak to them. Yes, you were given the title of leader, but leadership is not just about the efforts and suffering of the one."
Lifting his gaze, he glanced around at the other gathered cats. A brief smile crossed his face.
"Of all the voices I've heard here, I only hear one dissenter, and her words mean nothing when drowned out by the words of the many. I believe the same could be said for the living members of our clan, the voices of the many outweigh the words of the few. There will always be naysayers and disbelievers. What's important is who you choose to listen to, who you choose to surround yourself with. Give it one more moon, and if after you have taken this advice your position on the matter has not changed, then StarClan will consider your request," he recommended.
"Do we find this agreeable?"

[vellichor]

// Naiad Shade. Ravensong TheNyanCatMinecart birdie x ghostie -- i am so sorry for the delay, i completely forgot about this!! if this happens again, please don't hesitate to bump me or even move on without me, i seriously don't mind :sob:

beansprout

his paternal instincts were begging the riverclan warrior to stand up, rush in front of his kid, and protect her from all the danger in the world. she was nervous, stumbling over words... beansprout felt his body tense up. if anyone said anything about fawnpaw... if he had front claws, they would have been flexing in and out as he anxiously kneaded the ground in front of him. deciding to do something, beansprout whispered to fawnpaw, hopefully soft enough that only she could hear. "it's okay, you've got this kid."

the brief interaction with windclan's medicine cat -- cowpaw? -- made him feel a bit less on edge. soft fur still pricked at the base of his neck, though, and beansprout knew he wouldn't fully relax until they were all safely home. he resigned himself to follow whatever the crowd of medicine cats did, wishing his pelt was darker, like wormbite's. he wanted to simply disappear into the shadows.

[taillow]

Fawnpaw
And just like waves crashing against the shoreline, Fawnpaw felt all of her adrenaline and anxiety rush out of her. One moment it had threatened to swallow her whole and the next it was reduced to calm laps of water. Sounds were still muffled and her vision was a bit blurry, but a strange sense of peace rested in her chest - so foreign that it almost felt fake.

But then motions resumed their pace and sounds became real again and her sight cleared just in time to notice Cowpaw offering her a leaf that had just fallen. Despite the tears that stung her eyes Fawnpaw smiled. Lifting a paw she placed it over where her heart would be, a simple gesture of thanks as she reached forward to gently take the leaf from him. It was... perfect. It calmed her in a way she had desperately needed.

Ivysnake was already focused on Cowpaw, and at the lost chance of second first impressions Fawnpaw winced. Why was she so... afraid of them? Was it how their eyes seemed to slice right through her? The way they were so... just unnerving? She wasn't entirely certain, and there wouldn't be time to figure it out now. Grateful for Rosepaw speaking up and taking the lead, Fawnpaw took a breath and readied herself to go inside. Her dads voice gave her the last bit of needed strength, and she glanced over at him with a soft smile.

Following the group of medicine cats down into the cave, she kept her ears perked as Sundust spoke of herbs. Burnet... She didn't recall that one either. "W-What's burnet?" she asked, still hating how squeaky her voice sounded. Doing her best to clear her throat and straighten her posture, she continued following behind them. As much as she was listening to Sundust she was also becoming distracted by the familiar glowing light. It reminded her of the night her and Pikestar - then Snowleap - had traveled her for his lives ceremony. The memory warmed her heart as the group entered the cave, the brilliant gleaming rock illuminated from the moonlight above.

[ Naiad Shade. Ravensong TheNyanCatMinecart vellichor x ghostie - Apologies for the delay!! I'm hopeful that we could perhaps try to speed through this so Cow can get his full name? Because this is taking place before the current gathering, and since Cow is receiving his full name here he should also have it at the gathering as well - Just don't want the timeline to get too far behind with this meeting! Unless we wanted to hold off on the names until another meeting from now - up to you all though! ]

[Shade.]

Naiad
birdie
x ghostie
Ravensong
TheNyanCatMinecart
vellichor

Rosepaw was ahead a little far from the herb conversation, as she entered the Starcave. The interior was freezing cold and not particularly special, at first glance. Rosepaw turned around to face the group of medicine cats.

"This is it, I guess. Not sure how reaching out to StarClan works, I've only ever spoken to them once. Although perhaps you guys should finish anything you wanna do while you're awake." she said and sat down near her mentor, listening to the group awkwardly. Birdpaw seems excessively worried and had an escort, which made Rosepaw wonder what was going on in RiverClan. In a way, she was happy to see their warriors cared for younger cats, at least, since there had been very little support when she was younger. Not to say she'd asked for any, she was sure Sundust would have offered any advice she asked for. She had kept the stress to herself, however, and her relationship with her mentor was a sort of awkward co-worker friendship.

[wolfie]

== >@birdie Shade. TheNyanCatMinecart Ravensong Naiad vellichor|| i was thinking that it would be best to hold off cowpaw's full name ceremony and just go through with rosepaw's ? (if shade and naiad wish to !) just because of how chaotic his ceremony is going to go, it's going to be very awkward timeline wise if it only pops up two moons later, you know? and that way their first meeting can actually be chill and sweet :heartbounce:

Cowpaw looked towards Ivysnake, an eyebrow rising at the subtle pause. Oh yes! They would be sharing tongues with their ancestors, oh... oh boy .. his heart skipped a beat, a slight tingle in his paws.. he didn't deserve such honor .. he begun to lick at his shoulder, golly, hopefully he was not appearing as such a mess...?

Cowpaw nodded his head in agreement, lifting his head at the mention of sharing herb knowledge. He loved, loved!!! Herbs!! They were so - mrrp, cool.. their healing properties were the most admirable. The precious gifts from Starclan. He smiled brightly at Ivysnake, he would be over the moon (heh) to teach her paw signs! Hopefully, Cowpaw's expression conveyed that. He took a seat, his feathery tail wrapping around his large body.

The gentle giant paused at the second question, shuffling with his paws. He wished he knew the answer. "I.. do not have a mentor, so, I'm not quite sure how that would work..? I have met with ah, Cold .." Cowpaw paused, he wasn't sure how to gesture Coldamber. (He did not have fingers, you see.) "She was the medicine cat ..before Peachfrost... but, our dream was interrupted and.. I have not spoken to her since... I suppose, Starclan will give me a sign.. when I am truly ready..." He answered, ah, yes. Patience was a virtue. (He did wish they offered reassurance.. he has been .. a paw for quite a while...)

He listened curiously to Sundust and his floppy ears perked up with interest. "Pardon... what does burnet do.. and what does it look like... I know the others but ah.. not that, if! You wouldn't mind.. sharing of course, uhm hm..." Cowpaw thoughts reeled, attempting to gather his own knowledge to benefit the others. He enjoyed how Elmshadow had specified which ones he used the most.

"I know... cobwebs and poppy seeds along with marigold .. those are three I use the most.. but, I also find borage and catmint to be extremely useful... with leaf-bare, naturally, ..borage and catmint can treat sickness... catmint is specifically for greencough... little hairy green stems.. amazing scent.. grows near twolegs! there is also juniper berries for bellyaches..! There's daisy ... dandelion... aa, mushrooms and another herb... I'm not quite sure how to say but, it is used to ... soothe eyes.. they are golden flowers, similar to buttercups..! You know, it seems a lot of herbs are golden flowers... I wonder why... maybe it's a lucky color..." Cowpaw trailed off slightly, seemingly pondering over if that could hold any hints to future herbs. Was it just by chance? He think not!

"If anyone.. would like for more elaboration... do tell me..! I can ramble for ah, days.."

[TheNyanCatMinecart]

~ IVYSNAKE OF SHADOWCLAN ~

Ivysnake glanced at Sundust as he acknowledged her suggestion. It was a little surprising how agreeable he was, considering the note ThunderClan and ShadowClan had left each other on. She could remember him being a particular nuisance at Gatherings. But that seemed to be a thing of the past - for now, at least - with the unusual alliances the medicine cats had with each other. She listened closely as he listed off the herbs he and Rosepaw knew, and she kept an ear out for anything she didn't know or recognize. Burnet and daisy - well, Ivysnake knew what daisy was, but she didn't know what it did. Burnet was completely new to her. She was thinking of waiting for Rosepaw to reply, but Elmshadow spoke first, asking about burnet. Ivysnake awaited the answer curiously. She liked learning new things, and gaining more herb knowledge would benefit her and ShadowClan.

The cave was dark, to say the least. It swallowed her up as she thought, and her dark brown pelt with its distinctive black stripes blended into the shadows. The glint of her piercing amber eyes were what gave her away. Glancing around, she noticed Beansprout looking quite antsy. What was his deal? Had he not been among cats of other Clans before? Or was he realizing that he didn't belong here? The medicine cat apprentice rolled her eyes at him before her gaze fixed on Fawnpaw. Maybe all RiverClan cats were like this. They don't seem to have any certainty. Cowards. At least Fawnpaw was trying. Her voice was annoyingly squeaky, but Ivysnake distinctly heard her cleared throat and noted her straightened posture. The she-cat wasn't too hard to see in the shadows, with her light brown fur and gleaming blue eyes. If only the other Clans kept their apprentices strong. Then they wouldn't be so frog-brained. Ivysnake supposed that that was what distinguished ShadowClan: they taught their cats to be strong and independent from the rules while the other Clans tried to be peaceful, rule-following StarClan grovelers.

The air grew colder, and Ivysnake caught up with Rosepaw in the main area of the Starcave. It was cold; her short, dense fur fluffed up to drive out the chill, and she looked around. The place wasn't anything special - stone and darkness - though she could spot something glittering in the shadows. She glanced at Rosepaw as she mentioned contacting StarClan. I know it's called the Starcave, but can the Dark Forest be contacted here, too? Ivysnake wanted to ask, but she wasn't sure if the other medicine cats would take kindly to it. She snorted to herself. So what? I don't care what they think. I only care about myself and my Clan - and this alliance, I suppose, as useful and necessary as it may be. The tall she-cat straightened, but before speaking, glanced at Cowpaw. She wanted his stance on what she'd said.

He looked excited at the prospect of herb sharing, and perhaps the herb signs Ivysnake had requested to learn. Speaking of which, the WindClan medicine cat did them, and she frowned as she tried to figure them out. There were some similarities between his signs and Centipedepaw's, but the two cats seemed to use different sign languages, with her apprentice's making more obvious gestures that acted out the word instead of Cowpaw's neater symbols. But she could understand some of them. He seemed... uncertain? He didn't have something. And he'd met with... someone. Something about herbs and dreams and being ready. Okay, at least she'd caught some of that.

Now he was signing enthusiastically to Elmshadow. Was it about herbs? Ivysnake focused on his paw signs extra hard and mumbled under her breath what she thought he meant. "Cobwebs, poppy seeds, another herb... flower? Marigold? Something that treats sickness... We know catmint, but I think he mentioned another herb...? Some kind of berry for stomach pain? Something to cure eyes? Something else to do with flowers." She raised her voice and spoke her questions allowed when Cowpaw fell still, wanting her questions to be answered by the other medicine cats.

"It would be useful to learn sign language. I wish I could understand the specific herb names you're trying to sign," she told Cowpaw. Ivysnake had no idea if the white-and-black tom could speak, but she wasn't going to ask him if he could unless he showed that he could. "My apprentice also uses signs, but they're a bit different." Glancing around at the other medicine cats now, Ivysnake continued, "I know we're at the Starcave, and you all usually communicate with StarClan. But Elmshadow and I prefer to speak with our strong ancestors - the Dark Forest. Do you know if it's possible to contact them from here? Or is it StarClan only?" Her sharp, piercing eyes dared any of the medicine cats to speak out about how bad the Dark Forest was. What would they do, complain to their starry friends? Ivysnake wasn't afraid of worshipping their stronger ancestors, and quite frankly, it was the other Clans' problem if it concerned them.

birdie Shade. Ravensong Naiad vellichor x ghostie (If I'm describing Cowpaw's paw signs wrong, please let me know! :heartbounce:)

[beau]

Sundust nodded as he listened to the other medicine cats list off their herbs. He was happy to know that most of them he was at least semi-familiar with - perhaps he wasn’t as behind as he thought. His own herb lists seemed to be fairly well known, though he got some questions about burnet. “Ah- burnet is a strength bolstering herb, if I remember correctly. It’s used in traveling herb packs and for queens having a difficult pregnancy.” Thankfully, he hadn’t needed much use of that herb yet, but it was good to keep in his back pocket.

Ivysnake’s rather blunt question caught the tom off-guard, and his fur prickled uncomfortably. Frankly, Sundust was in no position to proclaim the greatness of StarClan: ThunderClan had gotten nothing but raw deals for the past several moons, and he wasn’t particularly close to his ancestors. Still, this seemed almost.. sacrilegious? They were in a cavern called the Starcave for stars sake. Regardless of how uncomfortable he was with the fact that Ivysnake was openly attempting to communicate with the Dark Forest, he didn’t know the answer to her question so he elected to gloss over it, leaving room for the the other medicine cats to respond should they feel so compelled.


He turned to Cowpaw now, having his own questions to be asked. “Could you describe the.. berries? What do they do? I’m also unfamiliar with the plant you spoke of that soothes eyes.” He had a little trouble following along Cowpaw’s signs (after all, as far as he was aware there were no cats in ThunderClan who used them) but the ThunderClan tom thought he had the gist of things. “Also, before I forget-“ the medicine cat couldn’t believe such an important thing had almost slipped his mind! “-I have a special announcement to make once we’re finished swapping herbs, and preferably before we speak with StarClan.” His eyes flicked to Rosepaw in a subtle glance.

[ apologies for the tardiness! please feel free to skip over me again if i take so long to respond aljncdwkhb ]
birdie vellichor Shade. x ghostie Ravensong TheNyanCatMinecart

[Pitou]

**Elmshadow**
birdie vellichor Shade. x ghostie noelle TheNyanCatMinecart

Rosepaw had taken the lead to enter the medicine den. Elmshadow took little notice or care towards the subtle, and not so subtle, intricacies happening beneath all the other cats' pelt. If he let it, it'd bother him how pathetically stereotypical the other medicine cats seemed to be. Fawnpaw's blubbering, Rosepaw's seeming aloofness to it all, Sundust's sunny demeanor, Cowpaw's interclan gestures of support, and then Fawnpaw's companions' edginess as if any of these spineless medicine cats would attack the Riverclan apprentice at the drop of a tail, even himself or Ivysnake, it'd be a waste of energy to lift a claw against any of these cats.

He turned to glance at Sundust as he descended into the dark chill of the Starcave. Burnet, strength bolstering. That was certainly a new one that Elmshadow could see coming in use for later, with leafbare looming and a seeming rash of older queens an herb to lend some strength could be life-saving. "Burnet, what does it look like. That would be a useful herb to keep a small stock of, just in case."

Ivysnake's attention on Cowpaw and her words assumingly translating what she could catch of Cowpaw's signs, turned Elmshadow's attention to the large apprentice as his paws gestured out his thoughts. He'd been around Centipedepaw, but never without Hornetpaw to translate for the both of them so he'd never made an effort to decipher paw signals. But now, something Ivysnake had mentioned about an herb for eyes caught his attention, Cowpaw had made a gesture that brought cold to mind and he couldn't help drawing the connection though he chastised himself for the leap, Coldamber? He looked from Ivysnake to the Windclan medicine cat, "Something to cure eyes, are you...thinking of celandine? The juices can be used to soothe irritated eyes and I've found it to be healing as well." The berries were interesting to Elmshadow as well but he knew of his own bellyache remedies so he didn't feel the need to press. He'd likely just keep an eye out for berries in the future to test some out for belly curative properties.

Elmshadow stopped as they reached the cave, looking up at the large central crystal for the first time before looking back at Ivysnake. She posed the question about the Dark Forest, a question that'd surely put the other medicine cats at ill-ease. Elmshadow was acutely aware of his own name included in the medicine cat apprentice's question. He wasn't particularly against speaking with whichever allegiance would give him the knowledge he needed for his clan but he allowed Ivysnake's question to keep its implication; it mattered not to him should the other medicine cats form an opinion about their overt allegiance to the Dark Forest. He sat down and looked to Sundust as the medicine cat brought up a special announcement.

[vellichor]

// birdie Ravensong Shade. x ghostie noelle TheNyanCatMinecart

beansprout (https://vellichars.weebly.com/beansprout.html)

the siamese cat had... no idea what was going on. he didn't need to know though; he was there to protect his kit. it seemed the other medicine cats largely ignored beansprout, which was completely fine by him. to be quite honest, he didn't know what to do with himself. but beansprout's demeanor changed once he saw the inside of the starcave.

mouth agape, the siamese let out a small trill of awe. he lost himself in the moment, seeing the impressive crystal in the middle of the otherwise empty cavern. he wasn't a huge fan of the star cats, but he had to admit, they had some showmanship. after a few moments, the warrior regained his stoic composure and offered fawnpaw a look of support. he quickly brushed by, giving her a small boop of his nose on her shoulder before taking a seat near the entrance.

[taillow]

Fawnpaw
Listening to Rosepaw speak about having only contacted StarClan once, Fawnpaw suddenly felt at least a little reassured. She had only been here once as well - and it hadn't really been for any specific medicine cat duties outside of being with Pikestar while he received his lives. The only other time she had made contact with StarClan had been back in her own nest, when Chestnutfall had come to her.

It was easy enough to feel the trickle of unease drop down her fur as she felt a certain pair of gleaming eyes on her, and Fawnpaw's own blue ones flickered over to look at Ivysnake. Stars... she was the stuff of nightmares. Perhaps not in outward appearance, though she did seem to have a rugged vibe, but something sinister seemed to lay beneath her. Perhaps it was the young medicine cat being too judgemental of ShadowClan as a whole. But she just couldn't shake the feeling that, if given the chance, the ShadowClan medicine cat apprentice wouldn't mind using her pelt as a scratching post.

Okay, so burnet was for strength. Sundust's answer was a welcome distraction as Fawnpaw lifted her head to look at him. It was used in traveling packs - was that something her and her brother were suppose to take when they had made the journey to the Starcave for his lives - and for queens. Oh, well that was certainly good to know. Not that many queens had come in to seek the young medicine cat out; probably because she was still a 'paw, or very young herself. She didn't really know a whole lot of how that all... worked, and for now was fine to avoid it.

Cowpaw was the next to "speak", gesturing to Ivysnake (whom Fawnpaw had already decided it might be best to avoid if only to save herself from anymore unwanted anxiety) about not having a mentor and speaking to a Cold... something; she couldn't quite make out the gesture. Then he gestured about herb knowledge and Fawnpaw watched with rapt attention, though she only caught bits and pieces. Poppy seeds and marigold, which she knew, borage... catmint? That was new. At least, that's what she thought he'd gestured about. Greencough?? Oh - that would surely be useful when the colder moons arrived!

Stars, he sure knew a lot. Fawnpaw felt admiration pool within her eyes as she watched the more senior medicine cat gesture about more. Juniper berries and bellyaches?? That would be good to know for the next time she had a Clanmate come in speaking of eating too much. Oh wait, what was that? About soothing the eyes?? That would surely be useful - perhaps, it could even help her uncle Wormbite!! A little trill left Fawnpaw as she smiled gratefully towards Cowpaw. "Thank you... much... Cow-paaw." Fawnpaw had lifted her paws in an attempt to mimic the gestures her friend had done, hoping they were distinguishable enough to be understood.

Then, Ivysnake went on to ask about communicating with the Dark Forest, which captured Fawnpaw's attention. Wasn't that a really bad place? Why were they wanting to speak with those ancestors? Fawnpaw didn't know much about the forest forever draped in night fall, but she had heard rumors floating around camp of how it was home to some of the most vile cats that had ever walked the Clans. She did her best to refrain from shivering and instead glanced at her paws. It wasn't her place to answer such a question, as she truthfully didn't know.

Elmshadow spoke up shortly after Cowpaw had finished his gestures as well to touch on the topic of the herb used to soothe eyes. Celandine? Fawnpaw had never heard of it before but would keep the herb in mind. She had no idea what it looked like though, and despite opening her mouth briefly to ask the ShadowClan medicine cat she quickly closed it out of anxiety. But... no... she needed to know. Her Clan needed her to figure these things out. "What does... celadine.... look like?" Doing her best to keep a steady voice, Fawnpaw glanced towards Elmshadow with a soft smile. Hopefully he wouldn't mind clarifying for her.

Beansprout's presence was a welcome comfort though, aiding her in her daring question to the ShadowClan medicine cat. She flicked her tail to touch his shoulder as he slipped past her to sit by the entrance, but kept her gaze on the medicine cats. While awaiting Elmshadow's answer, she realized no one had really answered Ivysnake. "...I think we can contact any of our ancestors from this place." Her voice was quiet, but at least it was an answer. "So, if you have, uh, ancestor in the... Dark Forest.. I don't see why you shouldn't be able to, Ms. Ivysnake." Another shy, sheepish smile before Fawnpaw ducked her gaze.

Bringing it back around to Sundust, she tried her best to shake of the unease that the ShadowClan medicine cats gave her. "You said you had something you wanted to announce?" Eagerness made her voice return to a normal level as her blue eyes glimmered in the dark. Whatever it was, Fawnpaw was thankful for yet another distraction. Hopefully after this, they could begin to share tongues with StarClan.

[ noelle vellichor Shade. x ghostie Ravensong TheNyanCatMinecart ]

[Shade.]

noelle
vellichor
birdie
x ghostie
Ravensong
TheNyanCatMinecart

Rosepaw's ears flickered back as she listened to the herb conversations, quietly memorising any new info that popped up. She was a lot more proficient when it came to wounds and bones rather than illnesses. But really, she needed to be proficient with everything. Because she wanted to be a good medicine cat and because her bad luck put her in frequent health hazards.

She wasn't surprised that Ivysnake wanted to talk to the Dark Forest. She was a high rank of Dawnstar's, after all. Honestly, the lines between good and bad seemed blurred in the afterlife. After the way StarClan seemed to completely ignore them, she wasn't sure who to trust. Though it probably wasn't going to be the people with "Dark" in the name of their residence.

She was perplexed as to what Sundust wished to announce. Her head turned to face him absentmindedly.

[wolfie]

== > birdie Shade. TheNyanCatMinecart Ravensong noellevellichor
Cowpaw shuffled with his paws, his floppy ears lowering slightly with a brief notch of nervousness. It was difficult to always portray things properly even with sign language. The barrier frustrated him at times but, .. he did not understand it himself either. Words were simply not his forte. Ack, he was being talked to.

The medicine cat looked back to Ivysnake, blinking back. She had said something about her apprentice using sign. Cowpaw only smiled softly in response, pausing when she spoke about her uhm, Dark Forest ancestors..? Wah? He looked awfully puzzled, the idea of someone... worshipping the Dark Forest hadn't really crossed his mind. Mama always said those who did that would very evil, very bad cats. Expect Ivysnake wasn't bad, Cowpaw was pretty sure!! She was just a bit rough around the edges!! So..,, uhm,, "Aren't they mean??" Cowpaw piped up, unable to hold his questions to himself. He meant no ill-will or well, he didn't want to judge. That was not what a gentleman did, you see.

He was very confused, but, he did nod in agreement to Fawnpaw's answer to Ivysnake's question.

Cowpaw kept in mind what Sundust had said, strength bolstering... that would be useful! He wasn't sure what it looked like but, considering Elmshadow had already asked he didn't bother to be repetitive. Assuming Sundust was referring to juniper berries, "They are.. small and with a blue.. purple tint.. when ate, they soothe bellyaches.. Windclan has Juniper's Rest... where they grow bountiful.. so if you would like.... I could gather some and bring them.. next gathering.. for you..? Or sooner..!! I never mind... a journey, " Cowpaw offered, eyes lighting with interest at the special announcement. "Uhm, I am not... sure of the sign... to say the name.. golly, uh - " He snapped up when!! Goodness! Elmshadow got it!!

With a happy squeak, he nodded in confirmation. Celandine!! Celandine!! He pointed his large paw at Shadowclan's medicine cat, mhm, mhm. He was right!! Yay!! He looked to Fawnpaw, "Golden flowers that look like ...buttercups but they have erm, more petals, i think...!"

Oh, right, right! Announcement time. Eee, he couldn't help but wonder what it could BE!!

======

Wormbite had a bad habit of zoning out when he wasn't particularly interested by things. By all means, this should be interesting. A one in a lifetime chance to well, eavesdrop on what took place in half-moon meetings. Wormpaw would be ecstatic to take a peek in what went on. Now... he was older, and the cold chills just made it him rather tired.

Wormbite's ears perked up when Beansprout settled down near the entrance. Ah. Right. His ears swiveled in attempt to hear what the medicine cats were discussing, perhaps they had already touched the moonstone and do.. whatever they did. "I wonder what it tastes like. " Pause. He did not mean to say that out-loud. "I mean -" Wormbite paused, "Well. For, for curiosity's sake. It is.. connected to, Starclan or, ,, something. Just. It is mystical. Maybe it has different properties we do not know. You know. Mhm. " Pause.

"Anyway."

[TheNyanCatMinecart]

~ IVYSNAKE OF SHADOWCLAN ~

Ivysnake fixed all her attention on Sundust as he told her about burnet. Her dark brown ears swiveled forward, and her amber gaze fixed on him intently. This was her typical "paying attention and being invested in the other cat's words" expression, but it could look disconcerting. Not that the medicine cat apprentice knew or cared. Sundust was now asking Cowpaw to elaborate on what he had conveyed with his paw signs. Ivysnake wanted to know too, and she nodded at the black-spotted WindClan tom. Her ears quickly swiveled back to Sundust. He had a special announcement? What about? He hadn't acknowledged her question, but Ivysnake couldn't bring herself to care much. The other medicine cats would have answers. So, she awaited their answers and reactions casually, storing the information about burnet in an important corner of her brain. But she did pick up the way Sundust's amber eyes subtly shifted to Rosepaw. Ivysnake followed his gaze. His apprentice was old enough to get her full name. Was that what he was referring to? And what about Cowpaw? He's been WindClan's sole medicine cat for a while. Whatever. Rosepaw might be getting her full name - was most likely getting her full name. Ivysnake didn't care much, but okay. That was a thing that happened at these meetings.

Elmshadow asked a good question about burnet: what it looked like. He also referenced celandine. Ivysnake turned to him. She didn't know what that was. How had the short-tailed tom learned it? Perhaps he'd been visited in his dreams by a Dark Forest cat - maybe even a StarClan cat, but she doubted the starry ancestors cared about the "evil"-worshipping ShadowClan cats. Despite herself, she was a bit curious as to how the overly-tense RiverClan warriors saw her question. Would they be as horrified as the rest of their pathetic Clan probably would be? Beansprout was staring at the giant crystal glimmering in the darkness like a kit. She shot him a disapproving look and was about to glance away when a flash of light brown fur caught her eye. Fawnpaw. Was the young medicine cat still acting like a whiny weakling? She was signing to Cowpaw. Ivysnake focused on the signs. It seemed to be a thanking gesture. Did Fawnpaw already know sign language, or was she catching on fast? The dark brown she-cat's tabby fur bristled slightly at the thought of the whimpering fish being smarter than her, but nope, now wasn't the time for this. She'd outsmart Fawnpaw sooner or later, and anyway, the soft medicine cat was immediately beaten by Ivysnake in the "wits and strength" department. And she isn't smarter than me in many other aspects.

Speaking of which, Fawnpaw asked what celandine looked like. Ivysnake's piercing amber eyes shifted over to her, and her dark brown tail-tip twitched. She went to look away, but her attention was promptly brought back by Fawnpaw's voice. Wow, the small fish was answering something without looking like she was going to die inside. The medicine cat apprentice nodded tersely. "That makes sense." To Elmshadow, she added, "I don't know what celandine looks like or where you learned it, but I'd like to know too. You're my mentor, after all." Her voice was blunt and unoffended, but she hoped the dark tom would get the message. Fawnpaw also asked the question she'd been planning on asking, but she wasn't going to be repetitive and instead awaited Sundust's answer. Wanting to know if anyone had other useful answers to Ivysnake's question, she turned toward the others.

Rosepaw didn't have much reaction to the question about the Dark Forest, but she seemed surprised enough by Sundust's declaration. Had she not been told she was going to get her medicine cat name if that was indeed happening? There was a lot to keep up with, with all these cats from other Clans, and their scent was cloying in the cold, dark tunnel. Ivysnake squinted to see Cowpaw's signs properly. He was signing something about... someone being mean. Her? Or the Dark Forest? The WindClan tom did nod in agreement with Fawnpaw, though, so that was all she needed unless he wanted to sign something else. And he was. Was he describing more herbs? The black-striped she-cat, nearly invisible in the shadows, leaned forward and fixed her disconcerting concentrated look on Cowpaw's paws. Small berries, helped pain in bellies. Labor pains or bellyaches? Something about gathering and giving them, perhaps? Ivysnake's brow furrowed somewhat.

"You want to give us something? What are the names of these berries?" the tall medicine cat apprentice questioned, glancing around the other medicine cats. Hopefully, they could convey what Cowpaw could not with words. She understood signs she knew the words of (mostly), but she couldn't discern colors or unknown herb names from the movements of his huge paws. He continued to sign at Fawnpaw and described something about... buttercups with his paws. And petals. Was that burnet? Or celanide? Had to be celanide. Elmshadow could've answered that, Ivysnake thought with a twitch of her tail-tip. Turning to her mentor, she asked, "What color is celandine?" Then turning back t oCowpaw, she continued, her fur bristling at Cowpaw's previous offer, "It would be useful to know what they look like, mainly color-wise - and seeing is usually better than description - but ShadowClan does not need the other Clans to give us herbs. We have plenty of our own, thank you very much. We need herb knowledge, but once we have that, we will be plenty able to sustain ourselves. Not that we couldn't, anyway."

Then Wormbite started spewing a bunch of nonsense. What did the white-flecked Shield want to taste? Ivysnake frowned at him. Bumbling idiot. How had he gotten to apprentice status with that mindset? Even a warrior? She very outwardly and prominently rolled her eyes at him. "At least our warriors aren't frog-brains," she muttered under her breath. Who heard it, she did not care; her voice was quiet, but everything was louder in the cave. She turned toward the glimmering rock. She hadn't paid it much mind before, but here she was. Not as many cats had answered her question as she'd liked, but oh well. Fawnpaw's answer and Cowpaw's confirmation - the word of two cats who didn't even have full names - would have to be enough. "We'll find out about ancestors soon enough. But as Sundust said, we should wrap up whatever it is we want to before we meet with our ancestors. But let's not take horribly long dithering or bumbling." Her gaze especially traveled over the RiverClan cats - and a little over Cowpaw, too. "We'll finish up, Sundust can have his announcements, and then we'll do the rest of what we came here to do."

noelle Ravensong vellichor birdie x ghostie

[beau]

Sundust nodded along as he listened to the other medicine cats - though the beginning of the meeting had been a little awkward, it seemed that things were going quite smoothly now. “Ah - burnet is a purple-ish red. The flowers look kind of prickly, and the stem is tall and thick,” The golden tom answered in response to Elmshadow’s question.

His ear pricked and he began watching closely as Cowpaw started signing once more. “It would be lovely if you could bring the juniper berries to show us. Perhaps I can bring some burnet to the next gathering as well so you all can see what it looks like.” ThunderClan’s burnet supply was fairly plentiful at the moment, so even with all of the queens due in the coming moon, he figured he could spare some.

Wormbite spoke up, surprising Sundust as the dark tom made a.. somewhat silly statement. Sundust didn’t know the oriental well, but his statement seemed slightly contradictory compared to how the medicine cat had first perceived him. Well, he supposed he didn’t truly know any of these cats.

There seemed to be a pause in the conversation, or something similar, prompting Sundust to realize perhaps now was the chance to deliver his announcement. He cleared his throat, straightening before beginning. “Rosepaw has worked hard over the past moons - she has served well as my apprentice and I believe her training has been complete well enough to move on to the next step.” He turned to look at his apprentice, blinking warmly at her, “Rosepaw, if you are ready, I’d like to give you your full medicine cat name this evening.”

[ Shade. Ravensong TheNyanCatMinecart birdie x ghostie ]