ThunderClan Clearing

[Waste Of Bandages]

DazeCloud lays on the ground. (Activity)

[Star]

Firebloom, Milkbee, Mothpaw, Horizonpaw, and Sweetkit existed.

[kairosclerosis]

 

Originally Posted by vellichor

•° Violetfreckle °•
Rapid Recovery • Collector • Lucky Duck T3 • Bewitched

---

The days were long. Nights even longer. But at least when it was light outside, there was some more life in the clearing. Violetfreckle never thought of herself as the type to "cat-watch", but now here she was, laying down in the sun, squinting against the light and just, watching. There were cats murmuring to each other, cats sitting around like she was, even a kitten who looked... soggy. Vi raised her head to examine the sky for clouds – mistake. It was a clear blue and she was temporarily blinded by the sun.

Several disoriented blinks later, she got back to it. If she had the energy, she might have gathered up the other warriors lounging about for an impromptu patrol. The day was nice. But that was just it, wasn't it? The day was nice. Especially after such a brutal Leaf-bare, Vi was content to sit down and just rest for a day.

nettlepaw

Nettlepaw was pacing around the clearing for a few moments, however, they paused upon their gaze meeting the lilac pelt and distracted olive eyes of a cat they.. somewhat recognised. They didn’t exactly know who thsi cat was, but they knew they’d heard their name somewhere. She seemed.. familiar.
Something-freckle..
Moonfreckle- NO. ABSOLUTELY NOT. WRONG CAT. WRONG. CAT.
Nettlepaw shook their head. Who was this? They racked their brain for a moment, before remembering the cat-watching molly. Violetfreckle? Yeah, that was it. Probably. Hopefully that was right.
They approached Violetfreckle calmly, before sitting a comfortable distance away from her as to not encroach on her personal space. They were pretty sure she was Bumblestar’s mate, and by Starclan she would hate getting into trouble with her.
“…Hello.. Violetfreckle.” they mewed shyly, awkwardly turning to look at the she-cat. “How are.. you?”

[Mr_Possessive]

Pineblossom and Mushroomfur shared tongues

Weepingkit stumbled around

[Dolomedes]

 

Originally Posted by namen_roodles

Flintclaw

Thunderclan warrior - 22 moons - Massive dark tabby tom with pale blue eyes and a thick scar across his chest.
(Purrks: Killer Aptitude)
~~~

Ah, now this was something Flintclaw could talk about for ages. That which he took the most pride in: his capability in battle, especially against other predators. His eyes gleamed with interest as he nodded. "Yes, a few of them. That's where this came from," He gestured to the scar on his chest. She probably didn't care for the details of what happened, so he moved on to actually answering her questions. Despite his dislike for the kit, Flintclaw refused to miss an opportunity to teach anyone about fighting in any capacity.

"Techniques for defense and offense or mostly the same against a larger predator, since you have to mix together both to survive any encounter." He began. He realized that he needed to break this down by type. It would make the explanation longer, but hopefully would be of some use. If not to Rosekit, then maybe another cat that was probably listening.

"Foxes are agile and faster than you would expect. Numbers is the best way to scare them off, but some, especially red foxes, are likely to flee with a few good hits. Coordinated attacks, or sporadic ones if you're alone, can confuse and overwhelm them." He explained. "Try to conserve as much energy as possible while still avoiding their fangs, as they have very high stamina."

"Badgers, however... you must do your best to stay behind them. Their hind claws can do damage, but they are less accurate and, unlike foxes, badgers are not able to turn and maneuver quickly. The teeth and claws of a badger can disable or kill a cat in the blink of an eye." Flintclaw warned, pausing for a moment to let his statement settle. "If you have the capabilities, use your smaller size to maneuver through spaces it can't reach, just don't get yourself cornered because they are ruthless and will dig until they can reach you."

"For birds of prey," Ah, the one he was least experienced with. Should he admit that? Hmm... Maybe that would be necessary. "I have not fought them, personally, so my knowledge is only second hand. Cover is your best friend, and if you can get them on the ground, you have a greater advantage as long as you can avoid their beaks and talons."

Flintclaw wasn't sure when the last time was that he spoke so much. He tried to break it down to more digestable answers, as anyone overwhelmed by information was less likely to absorb any of it. The last thing thunderclan needed was cats that confused how to fight different types of predators.

"As for eating other predators," His eyes travelled to the fresh-kill pile. "Birds of prey, yes. The others... it depends on the health of them and the needs of the clan. It's not a normal practice, though."

@Dolomedes (Still don't know EXACTLY how he got his scar... lol... also, totally winging this so I hope it at least sounds good haha)

Rosekit

"I see, that makes sense!" The kitten hummed, flicking her tail before wrapping it around her front paws. Foxes were more cat like based on the description she's gotten at least when compared to what it sounds like a badger looks like. She's seen different kinds of birds on the prey pile and Rosekit could only assume that's what birds of prey look like but much bigger. ( Ironic, that her eldest sister was named after one when their mother may as well've died in the owl's talons... not that Rosekit knows that yet. ) After a pause for thinking the kit continued,

"Well what about their pelts? Surely there must be some resources collected from predators? Can you use their fur for nests?" She felt that it was inefficient to not get anything from a predator after the effort it takes to kill one. Safety sure, but surely there's something more there. Though, that was enough of border patrols ( and perhaps it went into 'battle' patrol territory with her classes. "What about hunting patrols? We're known for hunting in the forest right? What is that like? Oh! Here," The kitten hopped a step back and then dropped down into the hunter's crouch she has practiced lots since her lesson with Tigerpelt.

She evened out her paws underneath her, keeping her tail low but not brushing the ground, "This is my hunter's crouch, I've practiced with Tigerpelt and lots by myself. Do you have any feedback? Here I'll show you a pounce." That was her weak point, staying balanced while static was one thing, but she tended to tilt and be a little shaky when moving and pouncing. She stalked forward, it was slow, slower than probably required, but Rosekit was determined to not be shaky at all. Then she jumped forward, and landed with a slam of her front paws on the ground. "How many catches do you tend to get on hunting patrols?"

[Dolomedes]

 

Originally Posted by Desert Rain Frog

"Golden Child, Lion Boy,"
FLAMEKIT
THE REVIVED
"Tell Me What Is Like Go Conquer."


He Flicked His Tail, Happy He Was Going To Be Doing
Battle Training With An Older Kit.
"Cool! I'm The Son Of Acornfall And BriarMask,
Your Terms Sound Fair!"

He Replied After She Was Done Speaking, Trying To
Sound As Old And Polite As He Could. That's How
Mama Talked! He Lowered His Head, And Squealed,
A Weak Attempt Of A Battle Cry, And Ran Towards
Her, Making A Small Attempt Of A Leap For Her Leg.

Rosekit

The battle cry had the older kitten's eyes narrowing, that would lose the element of surprise, now Rosekit knew exactly that Flamekit was coming for the first hit. That didn't mean she was good at dodging though, her paws weren't used to the swift movements of battle without any real practice. She did manage to get out of the way of Flamekit's charge in time and aimed a hit to his ears with her sheathed paws.

[namen_roodles]

 

Originally Posted by Dolomedes

Rosekit

"I see, that makes sense!" The kitten hummed, flicking her tail before wrapping it around her front paws. Foxes were more cat like based on the description she's gotten at least when compared to what it sounds like a badger looks like. She's seen different kinds of birds on the prey pile and Rosekit could only assume that's what birds of prey look like but much bigger. ( Ironic, that her eldest sister was named after one when their mother may as well've died in the owl's talons... not that Rosekit knows that yet. ) After a pause for thinking the kit continued,

"Well what about their pelts? Surely there must be some resources collected from predators? Can you use their fur for nests?" She felt that it was inefficient to not get anything from a predator after the effort it takes to kill one. Safety sure, but surely there's something more there. Though, that was enough of border patrols ( and perhaps it went into 'battle' patrol territory with her classes. "What about hunting patrols? We're known for hunting in the forest right? What is that like? Oh! Here," The kitten hopped a step back and then dropped down into the hunter's crouch she has practiced lots since her lesson with Tigerpelt.

She evened out her paws underneath her, keeping her tail low but not brushing the ground, "This is my hunter's crouch, I've practiced with Tigerpelt and lots by myself. Do you have any feedback? Here I'll show you a pounce." That was her weak point, staying balanced while static was one thing, but she tended to tilt and be a little shaky when moving and pouncing. She stalked forward, it was slow, slower than probably required, but Rosekit was determined to not be shaky at all. Then she jumped forward, and landed with a slam of her front paws on the ground. "How many catches do you tend to get on hunting patrols?"

Flintclaw

Thunderclan warrior - 22 moons - Massive dark tabby tom with pale blue eyes and a thick scar across his chest.
(Purrks: Killer Aptitude)
~~~

"Yes, fur from other predators makes good bedding, as long as it is not covered in too much blood. Some collect the bones, either for personal collections or to trade with others. There are many uses for different parts of these predators, just not always for food." Truth be told, he never really kept many trophies or used much of the predators remains, himself, but knew others that did. Perhaps he should start. He wouldn't mind keeping a fox tooth or a badger claw.

Flintclaw opened his mouth to answer the next question, but Rosekit was already moving on to showing him her hunting crouch. Her form looked fairly good to him, but she was slow as soon as she started moving. It seemed to him that her center of balance was off, which might effect her ability to not only move, but pounce. She might have made the pounce this time, but she was focusing so much on just getting the form right that she would probably never actually land on even the laziest mouse.

Oh, starclan, does she always talk this fast? Was that just a kit thing or was it specific to this one? How, exactly, did Flintclaw manage to be held hostage by this tiny, russet kit?

"Practice, get comfortable in your crouch and movements so you're not off balance. Some of that will come with just building the muscle when you become an apprentice. And," He paused, debating on how to continue. "No matter how perfect your form is, if that is all you focus on then you won't be catching anything." It was a bit blunt and harsh, but at least it was honest. He could've told her, and it was a bit tempting for a moment, that her form was perfect and she should strive to keep it that way... but, well, that wouldn't feed the clan. The least he could do was make sure the traitor's daughter wasn't completely useless to the clan that so graciously took her in.

"As for hunting patrols," He said with a sniff, moving on to her other questions. "You are assigned to a group and a location. Usually the locations rotate throughout different parts of the territory to keep prey from being over-hunted in any one area. Most patrols reach their location and split apart to hunt separately before meeting back together to return to camp."

"Yes, most of thunderclan's territory is forest and woodlands. There's a lot of trees that are home to squirrels and birds, which is why you'll see them most frequently in the fresh-kill pile." He explained. "There are many parts of our territory that are hard to describe with words, but you will get to see them, eventually. Pay attention to Firefly cove, especially since it will be in the beginnings of blooming by the time your mentor gives you a tour of the territory." WHY OH WHY did he just say that? Sure, Flintclaw could appreciate the beauty of thunderclan's territory, but was he really going to give recommendations of good spots to this child?

Finally, the last question, and a fairly simple one to answer. "Anywhere from two to four catches is average. I, personally, tend to make two or three catches when I go on a hunting patrol." Time for the next wave of questions...

[Rani]

Originally Posted by Rowan

OrangeFlower had been making a (poor) attempt to groom through her fluffed, thick pelt…yeah…that wasn’t going great for her, but maybe it’d help its appearance in the slightest? Yeah- totally! She cocked her orange and white head to the side ad the Hornet seemed to be gathering her and a few other cats up. All cats…that knew papa. Well- not really her dad, he died after acting like she didn’t exist her kithood. But FoxSkipper was the closest she ever got to having a father figure. As she looked to the brown hornet, her gentle grin faded into a look of pure horror.

passed in the elders den

passed in the elders den

passed in the elders den

No amount of times that it rang through her head could she justify it. Nothing could. That was Fox- that was her dad. He couldn’t- he wouldn’t just leave. “P-p- pa- pa…” her voice was a weak tremble as her legs struggled to pusher her into a standing position. Her steps were slow, thinking that it’d just disappear and she’d wake up if enough time passed. As his body finally came into her eyesight she felt a stabbing pain in her chest as her ears twisted back. “No- n-nonononono NO!” she cried, forcing herself a few steps closer to her body before she couldn’t anymore, and her legs weak with shock and grief gave out under her. The she-cat buried her face into her paws as cries rattled her.

There were only three cats that could ease her pain…one was missing and…the other was now dead.


@Rani @Beaan

Originally Posted by sturgeonwind

Dragonflycliff
(Image by Dolomedes)
female - she/her - 46 moons - thunderclan warrior -
"You're not alone. I'm here, with you."
- @Rani - @Beaan -

Dragonflycliff WAS looking at the clearing (well the apprentice den to see if Chasmpaw was there) but when Mudhound padded up to her she froze because she just felt strange. Then again, she had just watched them go talk to their sibling so it wasn't just- wait, siblings. Why- Why were they talking to her siblings?

Time. Nobody had time for anything. Apparently according to stupid hypocritical rules she should be actually doing something. But Mudhound always seemed like a happy cat so she listened to them as if the next words may as well kill the rest of the clan and she wouldn't care. ".. I'm free at the moment, I guess-"

She kind of just couldn't not make any sort of understanding of the next sentence because she could not believe that the next sentence was true at all and just did not- no.

"I just found Foxskipper and Mudtrot passed in the elders den."

If this was a joke, Dragonflycliff really did not find it funny. Then again, this was a hornet. She didn't think a hornet would do such a thing. She couldn't hear anything else because she didn't want to hear it. Trying to ignore the rest of the words, she got up. Not her parents, her parents, not this now, not after her mate and kits just vanished, she just- couldn't.

She was choking on her words and just couldn't say a thing because she could see the bodies of the two cats she considered her parents since - well - forever. Whywhywhywhy this couldn't just couldn't be happening. This just didn't make any sense at all. There wasn't any way. But it was real, as she walked closer and she saw their eyes weren't moving and the medicine cat was there and she just knew she was almost fully alone now. Sure she still had her siblings. But.. there was nobody as her parents and she hated StarClan. Why take my family? Why make our lives so unfair?

Dragonflycliff made a semi-dramatic slump to the ground and stuck her head in her fur somewhere near the medicine cat because- well, she did want to be there, it would feel wrong to just abandon them at the last moment they were still properly near her, still things in ThunderClan. The duo could rest now but she wasn't going to rest yet. She stood up again, legs sort of shaky, and looked at Wolfhawk. She had to go with them.

Originally Posted by Beaan

 

art by velli
S W E E T S W A N
Trans MtF (She/Her) - 28 Moons

>It was an ordinary day so far, and sweetswan was lounging inside the warriors den. She curled up in an attempt to get some sleep, but quickly jumped up at a familiar voice crying out. The cream and brown tabby made her way outside the warriors den and saw her mate sobbing near the body of two deceased elders. "oh dear," she whispered softly, tail drooping.

quickly, sweetswan made her way over to orangeflower, forcing out a purr. "Hey dearie," she murmured to the other she-cat, sitting down next to her. "I'm so sorry hun. I'm here if you need me, yeah?" the tabby said gently, attempting to nuzzle the grief-stricken cat.

She looked over at orange's papa (as she had called out), and saw other cats, both upset at the loss of the two elders. One was already being taken care of, and she was sure the others would be taken care of by the hornet or medicine cat. But for now, Sweetswan would focus on her mate. "Mudhound?" she called out to the hornet. "Would it be alright if I accompany you all to the burial?" she asked kindly, shuffling her paws. She hadn't known foxskipper or Mudtrot all that well, but nevertheless, they were clanmates. That was the sad part of living in a clan.

[ @/Rowan @Rani ]

Originally Posted by Luna16

Spiderpaw's ears lifted when she heard her name called, then panic grabbed her chest. Oh dear. Why would a Hornet be calling for her? Had she done something wrong? Had something happened? And oh stars, had her anxiety been validated. Something devastating happened alright. Spiderpaw's green eyes stretched wide in horror at the lifeless bodies of Foxskipper and Mudtrot. "N-No..." She watched as Orangeblossom's grief overwhelmed her, her own young legs trembling. After the disappearance of her family, Foxskipper had practically served as a father or grandparent figure to her. How could this happen?? Spiderpaw stepped forward shakily, before throwing herself at Foxskipper's other side. Quiet sobs rattling her chest.

The gray feline steadily started to groom his fur. She had never buried a family member, her kin simple vanished over time, but she knew she wanted him to look his best for StarClan. Foxskipper would tolerate nothing less if he were here... She blinked her grief-stricken eyes up at the Hornet. "I...I-I want to...h-help..." She mewed, her normally timid voice simply weak now.

@Beaan - Wolfhawk // @Rowan - Orangeflower

[OOC: I hope this isn't too late! ]

Mudhound
Thunderclan Hornet | They/them | 40 Moons
Bilingual T3 | Flock Together T3 | Rapid Recovery | Killer Aptitude T3

Well this was all predictably horrible. Those who seemed to be ok enough to go to the funeral were all taking it badly and the tripod nodded gratefully at Sweetsong for offering Orangeflower comfort the hornet knew they couldnt provide. They hadnt known any cat here beyond as a clanmate, so no matter what they said their comfort would mean less sadly. "Thank you Sweetswan, of course you can come Im sure Orangeflower would appreciate it. And Spiderpaw dont feel like you have to, Im sure Foxskipper would want you to take care of you first right now however if its something you want I could use some extra paws digging the graves when we arrive." The tripod of all cats knew how some desired to bury their grief in work and others wanted to pay tribute in some way but just wanted to make sure the apprentice didnt hurt herself in grief.


"I think this is everyone who's feeling up to the trip.... Lets get going." No Hivepaw, Chasmpaw, or Darkwing but they couldnt sit around forever. Nodding to Wolfhawk the tripod rose, shouldering Mudtrot and Foxskipper once more (though would pass off one of the elders should a warrior be strong enough and want to do the carrying) and headed off to the rise, solemn.

[Marigoldwhisper]

Reddove
He, Him\Warrior\23 moons\Thunderclan
"Just believe in myself won't rely on others."


- - -

Reddove had long heard the commotion in the clearing. It upset him to no end. He didn't know the elders personally, and death wasn't exactly something he or anycat could outrun, but to see distress so plain and clear, it made his stomach churn, knowing that he couldn't stop it. He sat idly as cats poured in and out of the clearing, eyes narrowed in focused slits.

The russet warrior clenched his jaw, scowl deepening. He knew that he had to do something to make up for his own shortcomings and what he couldn't prevent
Death was as unnatural as it was natural, a fact he learned to loathe.

"Mantispaw." He called out, lifting himself to his paws. "Come here." He didn't peak inside the apprentice den, he didn't look for her, but he called her name. She'd come if she wanted to, Reddove wouldn't waste his time.

Tags:
@SillyLittleCherry // Mantispaw

[lilypetal]

Lilypetal took a squirrel and sat down to eat it.