@Gusty

This was the last straw. Grousestar had positively had it with this Syndicate and was on his last nerve with them. How dare they continuously bother his clan. They just got to this territory and the Syndicate has been nothing but trouble since the start, killing his clan members and attacking them, provoking them from across the border.
Now he was a reasonable cat, he believed that they were just weary of a new clan settling at their borders, or that he's only encountered a bad apple of the bunch, but no. They have continuously been a problem and even the optimistic cat that he was saw that there was nothing positive that could come out of this. And while he was friendly and charismatic, when it came down to his clan? They would always come first. He didn't care if there was a reason behind their attacks or what not, or if they were struggling due to a rocky road with their faltering leadership, it didn't matter any more. They were messing with the wrong clan. The very thought of the Dusk Syndicate made his blood boil at this point.
But he would give them one last chance. Every cat deserved one last chance, even cats as vile as those of the Syndicate. He would attempt to speak to their leader to settle this. Perhaps their leader would be sensible enough to speak with him so that they could settle their differences in a civilized manner, he was hoping that this would be the case. He truly was. But part of his mind said that there was no speaking to this cat, that he would end up having to bring Skyclan to battle again to neutralize this problem. They've had moons to recover and were finally settled into their territory, they could easily take out this problem if need be. He had faith in his warriors. And it's likely that the Syndicate won't see it coming. The Syndicate likely thought them as weak, thus why they've been picking at them at the border. But Grousestar would show them.
Regardless, the brown tabby tom settled at the border, a neutral look upon his face, emerald eyes glittering coldly in the sunlight that broke through the budding leaves of the trees, his tail curled over his paws where his claws were sheathed, and his ears erect on his head, swiveling carefully.
This was the Syndicate's last chance.

Originally Posted by Duskflight (Post 229008) @Gusty This was the last straw. Grousestar had positively had it with this Syndicate and was on his last nerve with them. How dare they continuously bother his clan. They just got to this territory and the Syndicate has been nothing but trouble since the start, killing his clan members and attacking them, provoking them from across the border. Now he was a reasonable cat, he believed that they were just weary of a new clan settling at their borders, or that he's only encountered a bad apple of the bunch, but no. They have continuously been a problem and even the optimistic cat that he was saw that there was nothing positive that could come out of this. And while he was friendly and charismatic, when it came down to his clan? They would always come first. He didn't care if there was a reason behind their attacks or what not, or if they were struggling due to a rocky road with their faltering leadership, it didn't matter any more. They were messing with the wrong clan. The very thought of the Dusk Syndicate made his blood boil at this point. But he would give them one last chance. Every cat deserved one last chance, even cats as vile as those of the Syndicate. He would attempt to speak to their leader to settle this. Perhaps their leader would be sensible enough to speak with him so that they could settle their differences in a civilized manner, he was hoping that this would be the case. He truly was. But part of his mind said that there was no speaking to this cat, that he would end up having to bring Skyclan to battle again to neutralize this problem. They've had moons to recover and were finally settled into their territory, they could easily take out this problem if need be. He had faith in his warriors. And it's likely that the Syndicate won't see it coming. The Syndicate likely thought them as weak, thus why they've been picking at them at the border. But Grousestar would show them. Regardless, the brown tabby tom settled at the border, a neutral look upon his face, emerald eyes glittering coldly in the sunlight that broke through the budding leaves of the trees, his tail curled over his paws where his claws were sheathed, and his ears erect on his head, swiveling carefully. This was the Syndicate's last chance.

Originally Posted by Gusty (Post 230983) Halite was in his territory, minding his own business and being solitary as usual. It was then when, out of the corner of his dark blue eye, the commander noticed a flash of brown tabby fur. His ears perked towards the sound of muffled footsteps. He breathed in and out slowly, biting his tongue and forcing himself to stay calm within the circumstances. Which cat is here now? Not a foolish Clan cat? Halite shook his head from side to side. Why wouldn't they learn? Oh, those scatter-brained felines are so clueless... He let out a deep sigh. Despite Grousestar being on the other side of the border- and technically on their rightful territory- Halite felt a trigger of annoyance. It was too close for comfort. Way too close. "Grousestar." Halite stated seriously and monotonously, matching the familiar figure to the SkyClan leader's name. Halite had an idea on why he was here, but he would not make a further move. He felt no need to. Not yet, anyways.

Despite his boiling rage, Grousestar would act as civil as possible, after all, this was their last chance, if they dismissed it then he could let his anger boil over and throw the wrath of Skyclan down upon them. But for now, it would be a civil, calm conversation. At least, that's what the leader planned and hoped for.
Luckily enough he seemed to have impeccable timing and it didn't take long for him to spot Halite taking a walk through his territory and even less time for the leader of the Syndicate to notice him.

"Halite I believe it is?" Mewed the brown tabby in response, respectfully dipping his head and keeping his neutral demeanor as neutral as he could, not quite wanting to show this anger to the opposing 'leader'. It could make for a rash decision, and he didn't desire that. He would treat this decision carefully because he didn't wan't to go to war, he didn't want more bloodshed and naturally he would try anything in his power to stop such a thing. But at the same time, Grousestar would not be afraid to attack. Not this time.

"I believe we have some matters to discuss, I hope you have the time to hear me out."
After years of holding back anger, it was easy now, to erase his emotion, to put on a happy face, that's what his clan knew him for, his happy face and friendliness, they never knew what was underneath, the boiling emotions he kept down so that he could make his clan feel comfortable. No one liked to see their leader angry. Luckily enough they were particularly alone out here and if he got angry, then it wouldn't be too much of an issue. No one would be scared except perhaps Halite, but he didn't use his anger as a means of intimidation, he used it to show that he was not some nice cat that let you walk all over him. He was a leader.

And so the Skyclan leader would wait for Halite to respond, not wanting to seem rude by continuing, though in all honesty, he would particularly care about being rude to this cat, not after experiencing the Syndicate. Rudeness was the least he could deal out to those monsters.

Originally Posted by Duskflight (Post 233022) Despite his boiling rage, Grousestar would act as civil as possible, after all, this was their last chance, if they dismissed it then he could let his anger boil over and throw the wrath of Skyclan down upon them. But for now, it would be a civil, calm conversation. At least, that's what the leader planned and hoped for. Luckily enough he seemed to have impeccable timing and it didn't take long for him to spot Halite taking a walk through his territory and even less time for the leader of the Syndicate to notice him. "Halite I believe it is?" Mewed the brown tabby in response, respectfully dipping his head and keeping his neutral demeanor as neutral as he could, not quite wanting to show this anger to the opposing 'leader'. It could make for a rash decision, and he didn't desire that. He would treat this decision carefully because he didn't wan't to go to war, he didn't want more bloodshed and naturally he would try anything in his power to stop such a thing. But at the same time, Grousestar would not be afraid to attack. Not this time. "I believe we have some matters to discuss, I hope you have the time to hear me out." After years of holding back anger, it was easy now, to erase his emotion, to put on a happy face, that's what his clan knew him for, his happy face and friendliness, they never knew what was underneath, the boiling emotions he kept down so that he could make his clan feel comfortable. No one liked to see their leader angry. Luckily enough they were particularly alone out here and if he got angry, then it wouldn't be too much of an issue. No one would be scared except perhaps Halite, but he didn't use his anger as a means of intimidation, he used it to show that he was not some nice cat that let you walk all over him. He was a leader. And so the Skyclan leader would wait for Halite to respond, not wanting to seem rude by continuing, though in all honesty, he would particularly care about being rude to this cat, not after experiencing the Syndicate. Rudeness was the least he could deal out to those monsters.

Originally Posted by Gusty (Post 235563) Halite twitched at the SkyClan leader's response. He fought back his slight annoyance and forced himself to stay in a calm, disciplined, stately manner, similarly to Grousestar. If that horrendous clan cat was going to act like this, he might as well do the same, until he was offended in a way. After all, he was the reputation of the Syndicate. In all honesty, the Commander didn't want to have this conversation. He wanted to twitch his tail and dismiss Grousestar like one of his fellow trainees- except, that wasn't going to work in a million years. No, Grousestar was a high-ranking cat just like him, and he had power too. Not as much as the Syndicate, though. He should already know this, due to the border skirmishes. The SkyClan leader sounded pretty emotionless in his words so far, but Halite assumed that there was a hidden layer underneath. There always was, in every cat. "Yes, Halite, that's me. If you wish to speak, do it." Halite spoke through gritted teeth. "I'll let you do the talking first, since I assume you came to see me? Of course, if you haven't, then I'll gladly walk away from your presence."

With his eyes carefully trained on the other, he didn't miss that twitch, his own nose twitching as he quickly ruled the twitch as either barely stifled aggression or some form of aggravation or annoyance. Regardless of what it was, or what he thought it was, he continued on. For once in his life, he found it slightly hard to be diplomatic to this cat, he hardly seemed even interested in the matters, indifferent to the fact that his cats were killing Skyclan cats. Grousestar would not tolerate that if that wasn't already clearly evident.

Hearing the other toms words, the Skyclan leader could help his eyes narrowing out of anger, the very tone that the other cat dawned was causing his blood to boil with anger. Licking his lips, he had to swallow the strong emotion back. He wouldn't let it affect him, not right now, he would save it for a later use.
Clearing his throat, the brown tabby seemed to stand up straighter, the tip of his tail twitching.
"Right then, it has come to my attention that your Syndicate cats are provoking Skyclan patrols at the border and this has been leading to skirmishes in which Skyclan cats have died." There was a pause as Grousestar quietly recollected himself, not wanting his anger to show through.
"I will have to ask your 'Syndicate' to stand down. I have given you the benefit of the doubt since we've arrived, but my patience with the Dusk Syndicate is wearing thin and should there be no action taken to stop these border clashes, I will be forced to take action against you. Trust me, I don't wish to bring my cats to battle again, but I will not tolerate these border clashes and deaths of my cats. So either tell your cats to stop with this needless violence, or I will be forced to stop them myself."

After speaking, he would close his mouth and grit his teeth, jaw tight as he waited to hear what the Syndicate Commander would say in response. Quietly he was hoping that Halite would heed his warning and put an end to this before it had to get messy, but even the optimistic part of him saw what type of cat he was, that he couldn't give two fox dungs about what was going on with the skirmishes and that things would have to be bloody.
Well then if they think we're weak, I'll show them just the opposite.

Originally Posted by Duskflight (Post 237256) With his eyes carefully trained on the other, he didn't miss that twitch, his own nose twitching as he quickly ruled the twitch as either barely stifled aggression or some form of aggravation or annoyance. Regardless of what it was, or what he thought it was, he continued on. For once in his life, he found it slightly hard to be diplomatic to this cat, he hardly seemed even interested in the matters, indifferent to the fact that his cats were killing Skyclan cats. Grousestar would not tolerate that if that wasn't already clearly evident. Hearing the other toms words, the Skyclan leader could help his eyes narrowing out of anger, the very tone that the other cat dawned was causing his blood to boil with anger. Licking his lips, he had to swallow the strong emotion back. He wouldn't let it affect him, not right now, he would save it for a later use. Clearing his throat, the brown tabby seemed to stand up straighter, the tip of his tail twitching. "Right then, it has come to my attention that your Syndicate cats are provoking Skyclan patrols at the border and this has been leading to skirmishes in which Skyclan cats have died." There was a pause as Grousestar quietly recollected himself, not wanting his anger to show through. "I will have to ask your 'Syndicate' to stand down. I have given you the benefit of the doubt since we've arrived, but my patience with the Dusk Syndicate is wearing thin and should there be no action taken to stop these border clashes, I will be forced to take action against you. Trust me, I don't wish to bring my cats to battle again, but I will not tolerate these border clashes and deaths of my cats. So either tell your cats to stop with this needless violence, or I will be forced to stop them myself." After speaking, he would close his mouth and grit his teeth, jaw tight as he waited to hear what the Syndicate Commander would say in response. Quietly he was hoping that Halite would heed his warning and put an end to this before it had to get messy, but even the optimistic part of him saw what type of cat he was, that he couldn't give two fox dungs about what was going on with the skirmishes and that things would have to be bloody. Well then if they think we're weak, I'll show them just the opposite.

Originally Posted by Gusty (Post 238357) [im sorry this took a couple of days] Halite stood calmly while the SkyClan leader spoke, but his mind was a different matter: thoughts scrambled and intertwined to form his true opinion. He's trying to be diplomatic with me. The gray tom thought sourly. Trying to make us have peace in an orderly fashion. But peace didn't come easily without a price. The Syndicate would not give up just because Grousestar wanted them too. Things didn't work out that way. No, Halite would not give up on the border skirmishes. After all, the Syndicate gained power from it. Power that it needed- unbreakable power to become a successful, thriving community, that was feared by all. "The Dusk Syndicate will not stop these matters," Halite replied firmly. "This is not 'unneeded violence.' This is the Syndicate's true power spreading. It is your clan's fault for joining and taking up that part of the territory. After all, you moved in after all of us. You're lucky enough that the casualties haven't been worse." I really like how you keep bringing up the fact that SkyClan warriors are dying. I don't care about those useless rags of fur. That's not a way to convince me. He narrowed his eyes. Peace is not going to come easily.

[You're fine!]

As patiently as possible, the brown tabby waited for the other tom to reply, while the conversation was simple, it held a heavy weight for the future with it. This could mean for a big battle that could either destroy the Syndicate or leave for an advanced hatred between the two. There was a chance for peace, but the hope that that would be the answer was dwindling.

With Halite's reply, Grousestar's pupils narrowed and his jaw tightened but he said nothing, allowing the other cat to speak some more.
You're lucky the causalities haven't been worse. That's what made up his mind. Enough had been said but this was the icing on the cake. No more diplomacy, no more second chances, Halite had sealed his and the Syndicate's fate with those words.

"Right if that's how you truly feel, then you have spent your last hope.
I have tried to be kind, I have tried to give you a chance at peace but you have wasted it as a kittypet wastes a caught mouse. So be it." Turning his back to the Syndicate Commander, he would start away before turning his head, emerald eyes glittering with an anger and fierceness that no other cat has seen in him.

"If you think the Syndicate will come out unscathed, then you are poorly mistaken, you will be lucky to find it not completely destroyed. One should know not to anger the cats of the mountains."

With that being said, he would turn around and briskly disappear from sight.
It was time to prepare Skyclan for battle.

Originally Posted by Duskflight (Post 238557) [You're fine!] As patiently as possible, the brown tabby waited for the other tom to reply, while the conversation was simple, it held a heavy weight for the future with it. This could mean for a big battle that could either destroy the Syndicate or leave for an advanced hatred between the two. There was a chance for peace, but the hope that that would be the answer was dwindling. With Halite's reply, Grousestar's pupils narrowed and his jaw tightened but he said nothing, allowing the other cat to speak some more. You're lucky the causalities haven't been worse. That's what made up his mind. Enough had been said but this was the icing on the cake. No more diplomacy, no more second chances, Halite had sealed his and the Syndicate's fate with those words. "Right if that's how you truly feel, then you have spent your last hope. I have tried to be kind, I have tried to give you a chance at peace but you have wasted it as a kittypet wastes a caught mouse. So be it." Turning his back to the Syndicate Commander, he would start away before turning his head, emerald eyes glittering with an anger and fierceness that no other cat has seen in him. "If you think the Syndicate will come out unscathed, then you are poorly mistaken, you will be lucky to find it not completely destroyed. One should know not to anger the cats of the mountains." With that being said, he would turn around and briskly disappear from sight. It was time to prepare Skyclan for battle.

( @Noire )
Evie trotted along beside her friends, her ears pricked, head high, looking completely confident with herself. Her fluffy fur was neatly groomed and her blue eyes shone like stars, while her gray tail flicked side to side easily. She had to admit she loved it like this, just being with her friends and being able to be evil. The Rotten Crew was her life. "Welcome to my wicked world...Wicked world!" She whispered, giggling to herself as the words left her mouth. Beside her, one of her best friends, Carlos, pricked his ears with a small smirk.

"Im rotten to the core, core, rotten to the core." He chuckled, mostly to himself. It made him smile; Singing was one of his favorite things to do, especially singing the one song that had made his life worthwhile. He was sure his friends felt the same, after all, their favorite saying was; We're Rotten to the Core. Still smiling, Carlos shook out his fur.

"So, how much trouble shall we get into today?"

"As much as possible, right guys?" Evie smirked, glancing over at Mallory and Jay with a bright smile as they neared the border. Carlos flicked an ear, rolling his shoulders slightly, but he said nothing, enjoying the moment.

Originally Posted by Noire (Post 248377) Jay started to scan the perimeter, pricking his ears for any sounds of a skyclan cat. So far he hadn't heard any, and his ears pinned. ''Shouldn't they be patrolling their border at this time?'' He asked, more to himself than the others, but Mallory pinched in. She had shrugged, ''They'll be coming.'' She tells him, and Jay began to run around, sniffing out the trouble. Mallory stayed put. In fact, she laid down, sunning herself on the spot. She had enough patience to wait for her enemies. ''Maybe if I run on their side of the border, they'll come quick enough.'' Jay suggested, and without waiting for an answer from his friends, he began jumping onto their border, running around their spacious area for a little bit, and feeling their soft grass. It was no different from the Dusk Syndicate, but to him, it was worthwhile. ''You look like an idiot.'' Mallory remarked at seeing one of her friends hop around the other territory. She delicately lifted one paw to began grooming it--something she did out of boredom as she waited for trouble to brew. And, not long after trouble did start to come. She pricked her ears at seeing an oncoming party of three cats. One black, one mixed tabby, and the other a pale gold. She hissed at Jay to make his way back over, but the tom paid no heed to her. ''Who are you!'' The pale gold tom spoke. Older than them all, and looked as if he held a higher power. The only female, a small black she-cat stared at them with narrowed eyes. ''I spoke, son! You shouldn't be on our territory!'' ''Oh?'' Jay said, feigning innocence. ''I didn't know this was your territory.'' ''Yes. This is skyclan's territory.'' This time the mixed tabby spoke. He held a calm gaze as he looked at the four younger cats. ''Please leave, if you're thinking of causing trouble-'' ''It's a free world.'' Jay says, and he padded up to them, not scared at all. He circled around the black she cat, much to her dismay, rubbing his pelt against hers briefly. ''I think I can do whatever I want!'' ''Not in this part you can't.'' The black she cat spoke. ''And, we asked kindly.'' ''Maybe, I don't like to be told kindly.'' The brownish black tom replied, and held the green gaze of the black she cat. He loved a challenge, and he felt a purr erupting from his throat. ''Anything else, sweet?'' He replied, grinning, and showing his sharp white teeth. Mallory rolled her eyes, and got up to pad after Jay. ''My apologies that...''She trailed off thinking, but instead of finishing, she sauntered up to the calming gaze of the mixed tabby, and suddenly kicked dirt into his face, making him yowl and sneeze. Then she ran, flicking her tail across the border for Jay to follow. She gaze a silent look towards Carlos and Evie, giving them a smile of mischief. ''Hey!'' The black she cat growls. ''What is wrong with you!?'' Since she were close to the mixed tabby, dirt had gotten into her eyes, blinding her for a second as she repeatedly blinked them. Mallory purred, and sang, ''We're rotten to the core, core, rotten to the core.''

Originally Posted by Noire (Post 260366) The black felt his whiskers quivered as she approached him, He tilted his head slightly at her movements, but his eyes never left hers. What was she up to exactly? Romeo opened his mouth, but then closed it, looking away for a second. As he got his confidence back, he said, ''Fight? Have you not just told me that you will rip me to shreds?'' His voice faltered a bit. The tom did not want to appear scared of the she cat in front of him, but judging based on her looks, she would know the forest well. She would understand the troubles that he didn't. ''Why would I absolutely love that you would shred me to pieces?'' He asked once more, not truly apprehending what she was saying, and how desperately he wanted to. Romeo lifted his head, hoping to straighten out his posture and appear taller to display that he held not fright of her. He didn't know her intentions, but for some odd reason he felt excitement welling through him.

Originally Posted by moonfang (Post 262183) { @Duskflight @Raine } Onyx padded out, smiling. He was actually happy. Him and Ajax had confessed their love only yesterday and he was happy that he finally did. He didn't want to lose Ajax. Nor Lilith. He breathed at the thought and looked around, trying to find prey. But that was not the scent that reached his nostrils. The scent of death and he knew exactly who it was, and he stopped walking, stopped moving, pinpointing the scent to his left and he turned, searching through the darkness for the gaze of hell. His icy orbs flickered, narrowing slightly as he searched. "Come out, I know you're there. Your scent can't pass my nose..." he said darkly, tail flicking. "Hannibal." his eyes widened and his pupils narrowed at the name. He didn't fear the tom like everyone did and he could even stare into the eyes of the tom without faltering. Hannibal was stoic, so there was nothing interesting in his gaze. Why did people fear it so much? Onyx would soon learn. He looked around, then sat down, gingerly licking a paw in boredom. Onyx had been healing from the recent SkyClan attack, and his wounds were pretty healed, but he still was a bit pained. It wasn't typical for him to be beat in a battle, let alone by his own son.

It was truly like any other day for Hannibal, nothing out of the ordinary in his schedule, he had eaten this morning and then headed out for his walk through the territory and was settling into a bush to wait for some unfortunate passerby. He knew the Syndicate was weak, especially after that battle with Skyclan. Perhaps he could start picking off more of it's cats. He wasn't overly fond of the Syndicate and wouldn't be upset to see it crumble at it's base. In fact, the tom would admit that he had killed several of his Syndicate comrades during the battle, not that anyone would ever know aside from him. He had plans. In fact, he was planning on visiting each of the clans soon, test his boundaries, see who was tolerable and who wouldn't welcome him, gather information. But I digress, his future plans are not currently on his mind, in fact, a familiar scent was hitting his nostrils, causing his ears to perk slightly as he heard Onyx's voice. Now that is one he hasn't heard in quite some time. Not since the two of them went to Skyclan's new territory when they first arrived. Hannibal made a deliberate choice to leave the black cat there to die in the territory, but unfortunately enough it had appeared that Onyx didn't die of his wounds and now the relationship between them was strained. Well, really, the word strained is a loose term. Hannibal would expect that the Oriental is ready to attack him at any given moment. It doesn't phase him, not in the slightest, plenty of cats wish for his death, it simply doesn't matter to Hannibal.
Regardless, the dark tom stood and exited his hiding place, his face as expressionless as usual, those fiery orbs focused solely on the Oriental before him.
"Fancy I should see you here Onyx. I haven't spoken with you in a very long time." His gaze slowly traveled over the other tom's frame before focusing back on the icy gaze of the other. "Did you fair well in the battle with Skyclan? It appears you've sustained some wounds."
As was custom with Hannibal, his coat was clean, free of any wounds, and any blood, as clean and as well kept as usual. Slowly, the middle-aged warrior would sit down and curl his tail neatly over his paws.
This should make for an interesting conversation.

Originally Posted by moonfang (Post 262225) "Ah yes, a while. After you left me for dead in SkyClan." he said, his pupils narrowing at Hannibal. He had a grudge against him for that one mistake that costed him the biggest victory he could have ever accomplished. He then lifted his head up, looking at Hannibal, dead in the eyes. Nothing. No emotion like always. All well, he didn't need none. He licked his paw, looking away from him, as if trying to avoid his gaze however he wasn't. "Well, Hannibal. Did you even fight in it? To be frank..." he brushed his paw, and then placed it down, looking at the ground. Hannibal to his left. "...Betraying your home could be, of how would you put it.... Rude?" he said, looking back at him. Oh how he hated the tom, how he wished to rip those eyes from his head, murder him in cold blood, but he dared not make a move. Might as well get him to act first. Be rude. "Well you are weak, so it's no wonder you might have tried to avoid the fight, while we were strong and risked out lives. Some of us giving out lives." he said, tail lashing unknowingly behind him. He didn't want to seem angry however he was. He hated Hannibal with a burning passion, and he couldn't help but to let it show, even just a little. { @Duskflight bump? i take it you've had a busy weekend? }

{Very busy and very tiring, I apologize x.x}

"Yes indeed." The tom meowed simply enough, continuing to fix his harsh stare upon the tom before him. He knew full well what he did and he knew full well that Onyx knew as well. He wasn't ashamed of his choice and he isn't scared of what the Oriental wished. It simply just didn't matter to Hannibal.
"I did fight in it, however it appears I'm better at keeping my pelt clean than you are. So I believe you are falsely informed of my whereabouts during the time of the battle and my opinion of the Syndicate. I'm not quite sure where you're getting the idea that I somehow betrayed the Syndicate in any sort of way, simply because I'm better at holding my own in a fight as opposed to you." His tone was simple, rather matter-of-fact, not at all appearing rude, mean, or anything else. Stating a fact is what he was doing, or rather a hypothesis, an observation. The thing with Hannibal was that you couldn't make him mad. It was quite literally impossible to do such a thing.
"I believe you have the definition of 'weak' confused with something else.
Those who are unable to fend for themselves in battle are weak, those who die are weak and those who allow themselves to be injured by a clan cat are weak. Not only that, but it appears you're misinformed again. I did not avoid the battle, I was in it, taking the lives of several cats and letting their blood stain the clearing while alternatively being able to leave without much of a scratch. I believe, since the antonym of weak is strong, that I am, by definition, strong. And, if you don't mind my saying, am stronger than you.
Truly I hope you take no offense to that."
As Hannibal finished speaking, his tail flicked lightly, allowing the sunlight to glint off of his unsheathed claws, his orange-red eyes focused still on Onyx.

Originally Posted by moonfang (Post 265535) Onyx took no alarm or care to the unsheathed claws. "Mm." he said, almost of uncertainty. "I fought valiantly. And it wasn't a clan cat who brought me my loss. It was Kovu." he said with a hint of anger in his voice. Kovu. His own son. He breathed in to calm his worked nerves and then turned to Hannibal. "I don't mean the battle, you fool." he growled lowly, and he stepped closer to him. "I mean when you and I left to conquer the clan. All you had to do was fight but no, you left me in the dust, to die. I barely escaped with my life." he said, now a tail-length from him, no rise in his voice whatsoever. He stayed nearly monotone. His icy orbs colliding with the fiery ones of Hannibal. He gave a snort and sat. "Misinformed? Please, I don't need to be informed." he said, and he rose his head. He felt a prickle under his fur. He maintained a calm, quiet posture however, and hid his feeling. He let the stoic film run over his eyes as dark thoughts rose in his mind. The things he wanted to do, the people he wanted to kill. He let his claws dig into the earth beneath them. "With how much you hate the rude, with how much you need reason to kill, you never realize how you portray yourself. Unloyal, uncaring, and, you toil with the fears like a bully. Bullies are Rude." he mocked, snorting as he said the words. "Oh, Hannibal. You have reason to kill me right? Why haven't you done it, hm?" he asked, a sort of snarling escaping his maw with a snort. Because you can't... he thought. { ha same fam, take yer time }

Originally Posted by Noire (Post 272655) One thing that the dark tabby she cat always knew was the fact that she didn't belong in Skyclan. It was nothing wrong with her home, she just felt out of place. That one cat who became too defensive when easily offended. However, that was not her. She found it frightening yet amusing how Coralfrost would be offended by the slightest of things. Violence knew that she had a few aggression issues that needed to be handled, but who would be able to smooth that out? As far as the she cat knew, she didn't care about what others saw her as, or didn't want to be her friend because she was too aggressive. It was fun being a delicate touch of lovely eyes that deceived others. Not that she was deceiving at all. In fact, she just enjoyed playing around with others. Who doesn't love a game? Violence's friend, Saccharine was heavily different. Remarkably different. It somewhat annoyed her that the ginger tabby was a sweet face that wouldn't harm a mouse. What cat wanted to be that fragile where they had to depend on others to defend them? Violence always thought it was because the feline carried a beauty of innocence. That simply made others want to protect her because she was such a daft creature, that is also amazed the dark tabby of how spoiled the ginger tabby could be. Violence shook her head, her paws felt light under the greenery, rocky terrain as she stopped at the place she knew all too well. It was weird that she had such a strong feeling to live in the dusk syndicate. It would be cliched for her to think that the only reason she wanted to be in the syndicate was because of an unknown evilness inside her. Which wasn't true at all. Sure, the she cat had anger issues but she was far from being evil. Too far. Howver, she felt that living in the syndicate was where the cats lived by their own rules. No one to control them, no one to depreciate them. Violence wanted to feel like a valued member. She only stayed within Skyclan for her two friends, Saccahrine and Coralfrost. If she had her own choice, she would burn all her bridges and make a fresh start within the syndicate. Wasn't it where she belonged? Oh, how she could vividly and clearly see and hear her father repeating that phrase like a song I her ear. Slowly, but surely she began to believe it. She began to allow it to seep into her mind, plaguing her like a contagious disease. One day, she would fulfill her father's agnostic views. Right now, she would sit and look into the distance, imagining the life of a syndicate soldier. And, one day she would be there, and hearing all those names calling out to her. It would be the day. Of a dream come true. "And no one will be able to stop me." She narrowed her brilliant blue eyes, and scurrying across her was a nice. Quickly, she used a paw to pin its tail before nipping it with a deadly blow to its neck. She had no interest in eating the animal, only the simple fact of taking its life seemed to satisfy her. { @Nighty }

Calixto was just patrolling nearby. The loss of what he had thought would be his forever love didn't exactly feel the same way. Slice had dealt with him, showed h M some new things, new techniques. Calixto was glad she had and took it as a way of her showing interest. So, he had done what he thought was the appropriate thing and flirted with her. Unfortunately that wasn't how she was thinking and because of his flirting she had begun to treat him like he was a kit, fresh out of the nursery.

Just once, Calixto had thought he had a chance. A chance to be like his sister Illusion, to start a family. He wanted love, but apparently love didn't want him. So he had to keep looking. All he wanted was love, and a family, but apparently he would have to look hard for it, because it certainly wasn't coming to him.

He thought Slice would have been the one, her beautiful features, fierce and independent personality. He had liked her so much, only to be pushed away again. He didn't want to say he was jealous of Illusion, but he was, no matter how hard he tried to ignore it.

But a couple sounds alerted him of a presence of another. He glanced up, having not been paying attention to where he was going. He realized that he was on the border, and rather close to it as well. Probably not the best place to be, this soon after the battle. His pale green gaze swept the area, peering through the leaves of bushes to find the source. He inhaled deeply, but softly. He smelled another cat, that was for sure. Now to find out who it was.

He padded through the bushes, his long pelt making his presence known as it clung to the small branches of the bush and rattled them. As he came out, the border just oawsteps away, he saw her. He saw the feline sitting before him and he hrowled slightly. Although, despite his hostile appearance, he didn't exactly want to scare her off. He would give them a chance to explain what they were doing. He would be patient. "Ma'am, can I politely ask ya what yer doin' here?" He asked her, his southern accent breaking through as he spoke.

Originally Posted by Constellation (Post 274641) Violence discarded the mouse, having no particular hunger for it. She decided to groom her pelt, hoping to sparkle it up with some type of interest. To her point of interest. She didn't have that pretty creamy fur that her friend, Coralfrost gave. Nor, did she have that silky ginger pelt that Saccharine had. One thing that she was proud about her pelt was the glossiness stored. That's the only thing that she thanked her mother for. Calmly, she allowed her thoughts to settle. She didn't truly know why she came all the way to the border. She guessed she was trying to get away from Saccharine, the poor ginger had no idea what she would do. Violence was only glad she left before she got too caught up in one of her friend's idiotic plans. Being alone never bothered her. She was somewhat happy that there were no cats around. She could lounge around all day, and still could be considered working. Especially since Grousestar would see that she wasn't wasting time. And though she had a longing to leave, this she cat was a loyal patriot to her home. Where ever she went, she would be loyal and that was that. And, she seemed to have thought too much. The dark tabby stopped grooming her pelt, and her ears flickered to a heavy southern accent. She scrunched her nose. He was definitely a syndicate cat. And, he haven't attacked her? What a surprise, and something she could use to get advantage. She simply overlooked the creamed colored fighter, and turned her head. She didn't have to answer to him if she didn't want to. Who was he anyway? The commander? A mixture of a sweet purr and laughter escaped her maw. Even though its intentions was not pleasant at all. "If I did not guess right...I would say that this is a free world," her voice was delicate, a bit on the edge of an Australian accent that she hated with such compassion. Having to inherit it from her father's side. She simply began licking at her pelt again, her soft tongue going over places that's already been handled. "An', I certainly ava right to be wherever I want." She fluffed out her tail, wrapping it around her in a proud manner. As she looked at him once more, she grimaced. Shouldn't he be at home? "Ay, why are you here? Should you not be home practicing your battle moves?" There was a lot worst she could say about the losing side. She considered herself lucky for being on the winning side. The she cat did not quite know his intentions, so she thought he wanted to pick a fight with her. A fight was something that Violence could never turn down. Though she would never find herself being the first one to start it. She knew that she needed more practice training in order to become better. Wouldn't battling a syndicate cat be worth her while? Violence never allowed herself to be scared of anyone--not even him. Despite his appearance, his threatening stance, the she cat simply brushed him off, with a flick of her bushy tail. This time she stood up, in case she had to be ready for whatever he might throw at her, but she wasn't moving. Oh no, she would move until she was ready. And, if he were going to ruin his day, couldn't she do the same?

Calixto watched her carefully. She smelled like a Skyclan warrior, which could be a dangerous situation for him. They all seemed to be acting rather prideful these days, ever since they claimed victory. He put up his guard, hesitant in his movements and words. He couldn't get into another skirmish with Skyclan, he didn't want them to have another victory.

"Ma'am with all due respect: yes, this is a free world. Yes, you can go where ever ya please. But there is the so called Warrior a Code y'all Clans like to talk about." He reminded her, taking a step back in case this did engaged her. See, her attitude towards him explained everything he thought Skyclan was doing. And the next part angered him even more.

His whiskers twitched, and her ruffled his long creamy pelt. The question bothered him. Just because Skyclan had beaten them once, didn't mean they had to act like they were the kings over the Syndicate. Because if they did, he knew that Halite would put a stop to it. Or if Halite kept up with his current condition, some of the stronger cats like Hannibal, Onyx and Singe would take care of it for him.

He knew the three would gladly go and take care of Skyclan if need be. Hannibal hadn't hesitated killing several cats in the last battle. He had heard that Onyxs biggest enemies were located in Skyclan, so surely he would be all over getting to fight them. Then Singe still had anger towards them, he saw it in the way he fought the Skyclan cats. He was sure a Singe would give everything for a second battle with Grousestar.

But that was besides the point. He was here with this warrior who seemed like she could boss him around. "I don't have'ta spend every livin' moment o' my life fightin' ya know." He told her rather harshly. "I mean, if you wish I would go and practice fightin' then you better go before I find me a test dummy." He retorted back to her.

Originally Posted by Raywood (Post 286850) If nothing else, Grousestar's presence was appreciated. It reminded Rabbitfluff that there was, at the very least, one cat that continued to care for him; it didn't matter if that appreciation was solely as a clanmate. It was something. Although he wished he could speak about the experience, he couldn't manage to find the words and was relieved as Grousestar suggested they return to camp rather than discuss the matter here because it wasn't safe territory. There were too many thoughts circulating in his mind, a whirlwind of apprehension and pleas for help, but none of which managed to spill from his jaws. He was too focused on simply taking in Grousestar's calming tone and working his way up to his paws, surveying the landscape with a weary gaze and finally returning his attention to the SkyClan leader. "Thank you," was the most he could say right now, the sheer gratefulness not disguised out of pride .. for once. Walking home sounded magnificent, odd as it was. Rabbitfluff had become fond of the idea of leaving since they had determined the danger had passed - he could go back to the camp, and never go on another patrol again. Ever. It was a scarring journey, and he had little interest in partaking in that aspect of being a warrior. "I can walk," Rabbitfluff promised but kept close to Grousestar. Normally, he was a strong advocate of personal space and wouldn't touch another clanmate with a tail-length long twig, but this was different. To him, the other cat represented an unwavering companionship and patience, and comfort, and he reflected on how lucky he was that Grousestar had been the one to find him. As they started back, Rabbitfluff remained pressed firmly against Grousestar and thought about the questions from earlier; they were valid and deserved answers, and the walk was beginning to ease his troubled mind. Forcing himself to recall the details of the encounter was a painful process when Rabbitfluff yearned to distance himself from everything that'd happened, particularly the strange and trauma-inducing interaction with him. How was he supposed to move on from that? "A Dusk Syndicate member," he started quietly, desperation tugging at the words as he struggled to articulate muddled thoughts. "He was here on the border, and he.." When he'd always prided himself on being graceful with his words and intellectually advanced, however explaining an indescribable situation was a massive strike to his already-shaken confidence. Undeterred, he continued to try and let out a deep breath to hopefully regain an ounce of his composure, "His name was Hannibal," eyes clouding as the memories returned to him, Rabbitfluff went on with a wavering voice, "and he talked to me about things pertaining to my friends and family." Saying it out loud did nothing to validate his terrified state considering it sounded innocent enough, but Hannibal had been a master of mental aerobics and manipulation. "It was… rather surreal, somehow," Rabbitfluff went on, avoiding contemplation about each individual sentence in order to simply convey what was on his mind, "and confusing. I don't know what to think of it, but he was right. I--" he stopped, choked suddenly with emotion and grief. "I never wanted to believe it was my fault. Everything."

While he wasn't completely sure that his presence was at all calming for his friend, he liked to think so, or in the least bit he could be sure in his ability to keep his friend safe until they got back home. That he could be sure of. The questions he had asked Rabbitfluff weren't really at the top of his mind, currently he just wanted them to be back at camp where they were safe from whatever unseen danger that had left his short-tailed friend in the mental state that he was now. Something that could do that to a cat like Rabbitfluff? They were not to be messed with, so it was best to just get out of the firing range as soon as possible.

And if his friend was to answer his questions, he certainly didn't expect them to come right away and was in no way even thinking of rushing Rabbitfluff into answering, he never would. Grousestar was as patient a cat as ever when it came to the cats of his clan, and if it took an eternity for the answer to come to Rabbitfluff, then so be it, he would wait. The best way to help him now was to simply remain calm and sturdy, there wasn't much more that he could do for him, not in unfamiliar and hostile territory. Nodding his head and seeming to stand nearer as the tom pulled himself slowly up to his paws, he could feel his heart straining for his friend. How terribly he wanted to help Rabbitfluff in any way, just so that he wouldn't seem so.. So fragile like this. This wasn't how he normally was and it was terrifying to Grousestar. What had happened to his friend? The only thing that sort of eased his mind was the sound of pure gratefulness that radiated with the simple thank you, something not very often given by the smaller tom. A smile touched the leaders lip, but he said nothing more, there was no reason to point it out, not at a time like this. "Easy does it my friend." Murmured the leader as the other cat seemed to gain their footing, part of him half expecting the other tom to simply fall over.

"I believe you. Lets try to keep a descent pace, but if you have any trouble at all, please let me know. I.. I know I can get going kind of fast sometimes." Flattening his ears a moment in embarrassment, he would let his gaze nervously look over Rabbitfluff again for signs of injury before beginning the walk back home, going the shortest route there was back to Skyclan. He wanted to remain as close to Rabbitfluff's side as the tom would allow him, he felt that his presence might be able to reassure and calm the other cat, or at least he hoped as much and was surprised that, unlike usual, the tom didn't veer away talking about personal space. Half the time Grousestar forgets that cats have personal space, often times bumping into cats and what not, especially when he's excited but.. He couldn't help but notice the change in his friend, only heightening his weariness and worry for the warrior he escorted.

Silence fell now as the two cats began their journey back, nothing but the muffled nearly silent sound of their pawsteps and the echoing call of a bird. The fur along Grousestar's spine prickled uneasily and he wished nothing more than to be able to be back in the comforting territory of Skyclan. In fact, in just the short time since they began moving, he nearly forgot the questions he had asked Rabbitfluff, especially considering he didn't want to push the tom into answering. So when he heard the other cat's voice, he seemed slightly startled, his eyes blinking before his head turned to look over at him as he spoke, ears swiveling at the same time to focus solely on the warrior beside him. The 'who' he was referring to. A Dusk Syndicate member. Was he harassed? Assaulted? He doesn't seem to bear any outward injuries, but then again maybe they're internal. The leader's face seem to grow darker, the corners of his mouth turning down. This Syndicate is growing to be a real problem.
Quickly sweeping his thoughts away, he would focus on his friend with a nod, gently prompting him to continue if he wished, though offering no words, fearful it might put him off in some way and cause him to clam up. The leader's lips further turned down as he heard the hesitance and apprehension of recalling the events, what happened must have been horrendous.
At the name, Grousestar's ears perked up. Hannibal? I've.. Haven't I heard of that name?

There he was, standing there in Skyclan territory, him and Auroraflame confronting two Dusk Syndicate cats shortly after the clan had moved into their territory. One was a black cat with eyes like ice, narrow features and a cocky, infuriating personality and the other a dark grey cat with eyes like fire, features lithe, pristine in a way and a face like stone. They had introduced themselves, Onyx and Hannibal. They claimed that they had been the welcome party for the DS, murdering Skyclan cats mercilessly and without true reason. Hannibal... That was the tom.

Pupils narrowing, Grousestar flattened his ears. What had that tom done to his friend?
"He talked to you about your friends and family.. But.. How did he know about them Rabbitfluff? And what did he say about them? Whatever he said,
it.. It couldn't have been true." Despite his growing anger for the Syndicate, he wouldn't allow it into his voice. No, his voice was gentle, calm, reassuring. He wanted to know the answers to his questions, but wouldn't even think of intimidating Rabbitfluff into answering them.

"Hey, hey... No, nothing's your fault, whatever that monster said, it wasn't true. Give your mind a little rest Rabbit, you're... You're probably still in shock. We can talk more on the matter when we get back okay? But for now, take it easy. Just focus on walking right now, we'll be home, and safe,
before you know it. Trust me."
Deciding to cast his curiosity aside, he determined that Rabbitfluff's safety and mental well being held much more worth than a few answers to some questions. Those could wait.