ShadowClan Life Before Destruction

[Calgary]

@Suspiciousmindz


"Well, they decided to call it the Sky Oak. Never underestimate the simple mind of a Thunderclanner." Gorserain winked and chuckled good-humoredly at this. Although known for their bravery, ThunderClan cats were fairly humble when it came to cleverness.
A few heartbeats later he nosed the bird back over to Pearldance, apparently finished with his assessment of the prey, and curled his tail around his paws in idle fashion.
"But as I said before, jays weren't always so easy to get a hold of. The Sky Oak used to be a safe nesting place for 'em to hide their eggs away." He heartily gestured to one of the plucked quills. "Some elders say that's how the first bluebirds got their colors; they were born so close to the clouds that the blue of the sky seeped into their feathers..."
Elders could barely find their tails half the time, so their stories were often taken very lightly. It was fun to recall though, and Gorserain hadn't told the tale in a while. He added with an amused grin to Pearldance: "Your kits would definitely get a kick out of that one. You and your mate would have a nest full of bird-watchers by the time they started walkin' on their own."

[Arie]

Originally Posted by Doodle

@Arié (This ended up being longer than I intended it to be, sorry if it's a bit much!)

It was late in the day, and Tuftbreeze was just arriving back at camp. She'd been out since the dawn patrol, spending the day out and about. She was always a busy-body, needing to keep her mind occupied. As soon as the dawn patrol had started heading back to camp, satisfied with their border checks, she had announced to the rest of them that she'd be staying out for some hunting. And she did, managing to catch two black birds and a squirrel. They sat in her mouth now, tempting her with their scents. Being out as long as she did, she didn't eat anything. The warrior code forbid her from eating before she fed the clan, so she didn't dare eat one of her catches before bringing it back to camp. This was one of the downfalls of her way of spending the days; she normally didn't eat until the sun was setting, marking the end of the day. It meant she went the day with a loud belly and a bit of a restlessness to her, but if it gave her something else to focus on then so be it. It was only really bad on days like this, anyways, when she left so early she wouldn't be able to have a meal in the morning.

Stopping at the fresh-kill pile, the black and orange molly set her catch down and pulled out a different piece for her to eat, a nice-sized cardinal. Some cats didn't like birds for their feathers, but Tuftbreeze didn't mind them. To her, it was all worth it for the tender meal underneath. Plus, plucking out the feathers took time, time that was spent being busy instead of overthinking. Turning around to scan the clearing, the she-cat tried to find a spot that wasn't crowded. Most of her clanmates were sharing tongues and engaging in chit-chat, though Tuft was never one to get cozy with others. She much preferred being off on her own, ensuring that no one else had to know about her troubles with anxiety. She settled on a spot near one of the trees, the area even darker than the rest of the camp with the fading sunlight.

Approaching, she realized too late that someone else already occupied the area- a black tom she was sure she'd know the name of if she really took the time to think about it. Blinking, she wondered if she could turn and go somewhere else. But no, it was obvious to anyone where she was headed, and turning away now would just seem plain rude. Forcing her paws to move again, she settled down to eat, making sure to give the other warrior some space, more for her own benefit than his. Tuftbreeze glanced his way, wondering if she should say anything. Would it be rude to stay quiet? On second thought, would it be too awkward now for her to say something, given that there had already been several heartbeats of silence between the two? Clearing her throat, she realized she ought to say something if only to stop herself from overthinking the situation. "Hi?" She meowed, the greeting coming out like a question as she was unsure of how to act in this scenario. She never approached others, not ever, until now.

{Mine aren't long yet, still getting into the rhythm of rping again :3)

Ravenvine, a dark male, had sat in the corner close to the tree where shadows had already begin to show. He felt the scent of another close in on him, but the way he was sitting - with his bad eye towards the other - he couldn't pick up the entire image. There were several heartbeats before the half meant, hi, came out. He still hadn't turned around but finally then deciphered it was a female from his clan, and not one of those immature ones. Turning towards her, he looked her up and down shortly, to know where to fill in the spaces when his left eye would work again. "Hello," he replied courtly, turning back into creating his shelter and frowned, the ground was moist as a wet nest. That was when he saw it, the little creepy thing that ended up scaring him. It was a spider. He jumped at the sight of it and curled up, somehow ended up pressing into the female at his side, eyes still set on the dangerous animal.

{Gotta love my arachnophobic male xD He's a bit crazy.}

[Doodle]

Originally Posted by Lilac

Timberwish listened carefully to her sister’s problem. Every word worried her greatly, but she tried not to show it. She limited her look to concern. She couldn’t help but wonder what was going on that was bugging her so greatly. What was so bad that it was causing her to be constantly preoccupied with it and lose her appetite? And if it was important, why she couldn’t even tell her own family? Her family that loves her, and will always be there for her? Timberwish was angered and hurt by these thoughts, but she didn’t show it.

Her anger was quickly replaced by worry again. Something big was going on, and anger wouldn’t help her sister. And if this was as big as she said it was, Mousenose would need a shoulder to lean on. Timberwish was prepared to be this shoulder, no matter the problem. Any other feelings could be put aside for her sister. She ran through scenarios in her mind of what could be happening. She was scared to know the truth. Running Mousenose’s words over in her head, she got an idea of the problem. Her family would never disown a kit, except for if they weren’t straight. That was it. Timberwish was shocked for a moment, but ultimately was fine with. Keeping the look of concern, she didn’t expose her shock or revelation.

Timberwish tried to pick her words carefully, to not upset Mousenose. And she didn’t want her sister to think she was pitying her or know that she had found out. Normally she’d pry and be eager to know what’s going on. But this was family, her sister, and she needed help. So her prying nature was put to the side, right along with her anger. “Well, I’ll tell you what I’d do if you would eat that mouse for me. Eating will clear your mind a little.” She said gently. She silently cursed Tinyfuzz and Peachfuzz for making Mousenose feel this way. “I probably wouldn’t keep it all inside.,” She started. “But don’t feel like you have to tell me. I won’t bug you about it. We can even go do something to get your mind off it. Just keep in mind that whatever it is, and no matter what everyone else has to think about it, I’ll be there for you. You can count on me to not disown you.” On the last sentence she tried for a caring smile.

(Sorry for taking so long! It's been a busy day for me)

Mousenose kept her gaze on the ground; she could feel Timberwish's curiousity, and she pleaded with Starclan not to let her ask the burning question on her mind. She couldn't tell her the secret, not ever probably. As far as Mouse knew, her sister felt just the same as the rest of her family. At least, that's how Timber had been at the beginning of the whole ordeal. The molly also hoped that her sister knew she was being truthful when she said her secret wasn't of any danger to the clan. If Timberwish were to go to Goldenstar with concerns, then she'd be forced to tell everyone her secret to prove that she was still loyal and of no harm to Shadowclan. She found herself holding her breath, waiting for the other to respond. When her littermate did reply, she finally exhaled, nodding her head slowly in agreement. Yes, she could eat the mouse. Anything to get advice, which may help ease her mind. She hated what she'd become, a nervous wreck because of who she was. Mousenose longed for the days when she was a kit, or even just a young apprentice, too young to understand any of her feelings and what they meant. Her younger days were simply, maybe boring, but she much preferred boring days over worrisome ones.

The cream and grey feline bent down, taking a small nibble of her mouse in hopes that the taste would fuel her appetite. Still, her stomach was turning, but Mousenose forced herself to take a few small bites. She started chewing, turning her expectant eyes on Timberwish. She sighed at the advice; her sister's words only confirmed what Mouse thought she'd have to end up doing, and it hardly comforted her. She'd have to tell her family, and then she'd find herself without a family at all. Her eyes had grown sad, thinking about what the future had in store for her. She tried to clear the emotion away, blinking a few times before placing her gaze back on her sister. "Thank you, Timber. Actually, I'd really love to go take a walk through the territory with you. I think that may clear my mind a bit." Maybe, while they were out there, she'd even find the courage to tell her sister. After all, Timberwish did just promise not to disown her. Mouse didn't think she'd go back on that promise, at least not on the same day that she made it. She shot a glance back at her half-eaten mouse. She'd have to finish it, and of course her sister still needed to eat as well. "After we finish our meals, of course."

[Doodle]

Originally Posted by Arié

{Mine aren't long yet, still getting into the rhythm of rping again :3)

Ravenvine, a dark male, had sat in the corner close to the tree where shadows had already begin to show. He felt the scent of another close in on him, but the way he was sitting - with his bad eye towards the other - he couldn't pick up the entire image. There were several heartbeats before the half meant, hi, came out. He still hadn't turned around but finally then deciphered it was a female from his clan, and not one of those immature ones. Turning towards her, he looked her up and down shortly, to know where to fill in the spaces when his left eye would work again. "Hello," he replied courtly, turning back into creating his shelter and frowned, the ground was moist as a wet nest. That was when he saw it, the little creepy thing that ended up scaring him. It was a spider. He jumped at the sight of it and curled up, somehow ended up pressing into the female at his side, eyes still set on the dangerous animal.

{Gotta love my arachnophobic male xD He's a bit crazy.}

(No worries! Mine normally aren't that long anyways, they tend to range from 1-2 paragraphs, but it seems I was randomly struck with inspiration for that starter xD And oh goodness I relate so much to Raven. Spiders are just... no)

Tuftbreeze waited, her gaze straying to anxiously glance around the clearing every now and then. It was hard for the molly to keep her gaze on the tom, especially when it was during a moment of silence. She had been staring towards the camp entrance when the black warrior answered. Despite waiting to hear his greeting back, she was still caught off guard and jumped slightly before swiveling her head back towards him. He was facing her now, and if she wasn't mistaken he had been looking her up and down. She felt more awkward now, never having been the one to like being the center of attention. Her mind worked for something to say, unsure if she should ask for his name or if she was already supposed to know the warrior's name. She decided on the safe bet of sharing her name first and opened her mouth to do so, but before a single sound came out the other warrior had jumped, pressing himself into her. Her mouth slammed shut, before opening and closing once again. She had leaned away from the tom, trying to get her face away from him at least, unhappy with how her personal bubble had been invaded. Still, she continued with her planned words, even if they were a bit shaky given the unpredictable circumstances. "Uh, my name..." her eyes caught on a black spider over on the tom's side. The back feline's gaze seemed to be glued to it, and she guessed this was the cause of his seemingly random behavior. "... my name is Tuftbreeze."

[Lilac]

Originally Posted by Doodle

(Sorry for taking so long! It's been a busy day for me)

Mousenose kept her gaze on the ground; she could feel Timberwish's curiousity, and she pleaded with Starclan not to let her ask the burning question on her mind. She couldn't tell her the secret, not ever probably. As far as Mouse knew, her sister felt just the same as the rest of her family. At least, that's how Timber had been at the beginning of the whole ordeal. The molly also hoped that her sister knew she was being truthful when she said her secret wasn't of any danger to the clan. If Timberwish were to go to Goldenstar with concerns, then she'd be forced to tell everyone her secret to prove that she was still loyal and of no harm to Shadowclan. She found herself holding her breath, waiting for the other to respond. When her littermate did reply, she finally exhaled, nodding her head slowly in agreement. Yes, she could eat the mouse. Anything to get advice, which may help ease her mind. She hated what she'd become, a nervous wreck because of who she was. Mousenose longed for the days when she was a kit, or even just a young apprentice, too young to understand any of her feelings and what they meant. Her younger days were simply, maybe boring, but she much preferred boring days over worrisome ones.

The cream and grey feline bent down, taking a small nibble of her mouse in hopes that the taste would fuel her appetite. Still, her stomach was turning, but Mousenose forced herself to take a few small bites. She started chewing, turning her expectant eyes on Timberwish. She sighed at the advice; her sister's words only confirmed what Mouse thought she'd have to end up doing, and it hardly comforted her. She'd have to tell her family, and then she'd find herself without a family at all. Her eyes had grown sad, thinking about what the future had in store for her. She tried to clear the emotion away, blinking a few times before placing her gaze back on her sister. "Thank you, Timber. Actually, I'd really love to go take a walk through the territory with you. I think that may clear my mind a bit." Maybe, while they were out there, she'd even find the courage to tell her sister. After all, Timberwish did just promise not to disown her. Mouse didn't think she'd go back on that promise, at least not on the same day that she made it. She shot a glance back at her half-eaten mouse. She'd have to finish it, and of course her sister still needed to eat as well. "After we finish our meals, of course."

(Don’t worry about it, take your time )

Timberwish felt worry course through her as she waited for her sister’s response. She wished Mousenose would just come out and admit it. She hated the burden of knowing without be being told. She felt guilty for figuring it out, almost like she was intruding on her sister’s privacy. Holding it in was killing her, but she wouldn’t allow herself to say anything about it. Then it occurred to her why Mousenose would be hesitant to tell her: she had openly supported Peachfuzz’s views in the first place. Mousenose would she’s just like the rest of her family. At that thought she became disgusted by herself. Any support she offered now wouldn’t be outweighed by the past. Her previous actions were just another thing weighing on her sister. Even more guilt weighed down on Timberwish. From now on, she promised herself, she would think thoroughly on how her actions could affect some before she acted.

As soon as Mousenose had taken a few bites, she felt some weight being lifted off her shoulders. Sure, it wasn’t much, but it was something. She had to start somewhere, and this was progress. She looked Mousenose over, and saw a glint of sadness in her eyes. She felt a pang of guilt, and she felt like she was intruding again. She tried to keep a cheerful attitude, but it was getting harder. She couldn’t let her sister sense this though. “Great! I guess I’ll have to take a bite out of this thing now if we want to get going soon.” She said looking down at the sparrow. It definitely wouldn’t hold her long, it was tiny along with being frail. Not exactly something to salivate over. “I guess I should’ve grabbed something bigger. Serves me right for being too preoccupied to look at what I was grabbing.” She said with a laugh. She racked her brain for anything to distract her sister while she ate. She was tempted to bring up a story about them and the rest of their litter mates when they were young exploring the territory. Timberwish didn’t dare though, she knew it would only make Mousenose feel worse, and she couldn’t bear that. They all had so much fun together back then, it was hard to believe things had turned out this way. So many opinions and all so distant from one another. Where had those good times gone? Where had the sense of family gone?

On their walk, Timberwish new she would have to subtly alert Mousenose of her change of opinion. Maybe then she would be a little more trusting and open. And after hearing her sister’s response, she felt she had a chance to get her to open up. And she’d have to remind Mousenose that even in the first place she’d never fully agreed with the views. She had never given up her place as a warrior. She’d worked so hard her entire life to achieve her rank, and wasn’t going to throw it away to go do nothing in the nursery. Sure, Timberwish wanted and looked forward to having kits. That was another thing she’d always looked forward too, along with becoming a warrior. But she didn’t know if she was even ready to be a mother. She liked going to the nursery to help everyone once and a while, but wasn’t ready for kits of her own. Plus she didn’t even have a mate yet. When she met the right tom, she’d consider it. And when her kits were apprenticed, she’d get right back to her warrior duties. No one would or could keep her locked up in there for the rest of her life.

[Doodle]

Originally Posted by Lilac

(Don’t worry about it, take your time )

Timberwish felt worry course through her as she waited for her sister’s response. She wished Mousenose would just come out and admit it. She hated the burden of knowing without be being told. She felt guilty for figuring it out, almost like she was intruding on her sister’s privacy. Holding it in was killing her, but she wouldn’t allow herself to say anything about it. Then it occurred to her why Mousenose would be hesitant to tell her: she had openly supported Peachfuzz’s views in the first place. Mousenose would she’s just like the rest of her family. At that thought she became disgusted by herself. Any support she offered now wouldn’t be outweighed by the past. Her previous actions were just another thing weighing on her sister. Even more guilt weighed down on Timberwish. From now on, she promised herself, she would think thoroughly on how her actions could affect some before she acted.

As soon as Mousenose had taken a few bites, she felt some weight being lifted off her shoulders. Sure, it wasn’t much, but it was something. She had to start somewhere, and this was progress. She looked Mousenose over, and saw a glint of sadness in her eyes. She felt a pang of guilt, and she felt like she was intruding again. She tried to keep a cheerful attitude, but it was getting harder. She couldn’t let her sister sense this though. “Great! I guess I’ll have to take a bite out of this thing now if we want to get going soon.” She said looking down at the sparrow. It definitely wouldn’t hold her long, it was tiny along with being frail. Not exactly something to salivate over. “I guess I should’ve grabbed something bigger. Serves me right for being too preoccupied to look at what I was grabbing.” She said with a laugh. She racked her brain for anything to distract her sister while she ate. She was tempted to bring up a story about them and the rest of their litter mates when they were young exploring the territory. Timberwish didn’t dare though, she knew it would only make Mousenose feel worse, and she couldn’t bear that. They all had so much fun together back then, it was hard to believe things had turned out this way. So many opinions and all so distant from one another. Where had those good times gone? Where had the sense of family gone?

On their walk, Timberwish new she would have to subtly alert Mousenose of her change of opinion. Maybe then she would be a little more trusting and open. And after hearing her sister’s response, she felt she had a chance to get her to open up. And she’d have to remind Mousenose that even in the first place she’d never fully agreed with the views. She had never given up her place as a warrior. She’d worked so hard her entire life to achieve her rank, and wasn’t going to throw it away to go do nothing in the nursery. Sure, Timberwish wanted and looked forward to having kits. That was another thing she’d always looked forward too, along with becoming a warrior. But she didn’t know if she was even ready to be a mother. She liked going to the nursery to help everyone once and a while, but wasn’t ready for kits of her own. Plus she didn’t even have a mate yet. When she met the right tom, she’d consider it. And when her kits were apprenticed, she’d get right back to her warrior duties. No one would or could keep her locked up in there for the rest of her life.

(Thank you )

Mousenose tried a small smile, distractedly looking down at the sparrow. Suddenly, a thought occurred to her and she blinked in shock- she'd been so preoccupied with her own problems, she hadn't even thought to ask Timberwish how she'd been doing. Guilt coursed through her and she lowered her head slightly. "Oh, I haven't asked you how you're doing yourself," the molly exclaimed, tail waving behind her- a habit of hers when she was worried or stressed. "How rude of me to dump my problems on you without checking in on you first! I'm sorry, Timberwish. How have you been? You're not working yourself too hard, are you?" Her sister's words replayed over in the she-cat's head- what was Timberwish so preoccupied with when grabbing her meal? Was there something on her mind as well? Mousenose hated knowing she'd been so selfish, not considering her sister and putting her own problems first. No matter how stressed or upset she was feeling, she knew her life wasn't all bad. Surely others out there had it worse- and for all she knew, Timberwish could fall into that category. Mouse hoped she hadn't just added to her sister's problems.

She gave her littermate a quick look-over, trying to detect any signs of distress. Despite the small meal in front of Timberwish, she appeared to have been eating well, so that was a good sign. Mousenose was temporarily relieved, but her worry for her sister wouldn't completely leave her until Timber answered her questions. Distractedly, she tried to continue eating her meal, thinking ahead to their walk in the territory. She'd make sure it wasn't all about herself, that they spent time talking about the brown she-cat's life as well. Hopefully, that would make up for Mousenose's previous selfishness. She was worrying now, fretting about what was running through Timberwish's mind. Had her sister thought she was being downright rude and selfish with her venting? Mouse had to remember to put others first- she couldn't stand disappointing someone she cared for or respected, and her littermate fell into both categories. She shifted in her spot, resisting the urge to apologize for her previous actions again. Too much apologizing, and she'd just get on the other feline's nerves. She kept her maw firmly shut, waiting for Timber to respond so the cream molly could stop her worrying.

[Arie]

Originally Posted by Doodle

(No worries! Mine normally aren't that long anyways, they tend to range from 1-2 paragraphs, but it seems I was randomly struck with inspiration for that starter xD And oh goodness I relate so much to Raven. Spiders are just... no)

Tuftbreeze waited, her gaze straying to anxiously glance around the clearing every now and then. It was hard for the molly to keep her gaze on the tom, especially when it was during a moment of silence. She had been staring towards the camp entrance when the black warrior answered. Despite waiting to hear his greeting back, she was still caught off guard and jumped slightly before swiveling her head back towards him. He was facing her now, and if she wasn't mistaken he had been looking her up and down. She felt more awkward now, never having been the one to like being the center of attention. Her mind worked for something to say, unsure if she should ask for his name or if she was already supposed to know the warrior's name. She decided on the safe bet of sharing her name first and opened her mouth to do so, but before a single sound came out the other warrior had jumped, pressing himself into her. Her mouth slammed shut, before opening and closing once again. She had leaned away from the tom, trying to get her face away from him at least, unhappy with how her personal bubble had been invaded. Still, she continued with her planned words, even if they were a bit shaky given the unpredictable circumstances. "Uh, my name..." her eyes caught on a black spider over on the tom's side. The back feline's gaze seemed to be glued to it, and she guessed this was the cause of his seemingly random behavior. "... my name is Tuftbreeze."

Ravenvine nodded slowly, still having having his eyes set on the animal that, he was next to sure, would jump on him. Still focused he forced out his name through gritted teeth, "Ravenvine - the halfblind outcast." His tail twitched at the last thing but he nodded toward the spider. "Would you please, get rid of that...." he shook his head and pointed with his tail - at fair distance to be said - "...thing." He was still pressed up against the she-cat and finally sensed her discomfort, so he moved around her, going to hide from the 'monster' behind her back. It did offer him more safety, but he wouldn't admit it. Incase this was something that could be used back at him.

[RedHead]

Originally Posted by Fuzzyfeline

To be perfectly honest Oceanfur was genuinely surprised that the ginger molly had still laid down after talking to her. Though the hesitant way she did showed that she almost didn't or that she was being forced. Probably the second one if she had to pick. I bet she doesn't even want to be around someone like me, I don't get how anyone does. But Galetuft somehow does. She thought flicking her tail.
As the molly began eating Oceanfur was aware of her eyes resting on her witch made this blue-gray molly a bit unsure at first. Though when she began talking in such a kind voice, just as before it was honestly a bit of a relief. But why? Swallowing a bite of her lizard the blue-gery molly looked up at the ginger feline with her ocean blue orbs. "I prefer not to be around others, I don't get along with many cats." She admitted in a low voice witch was a normal thing for her. What am I doing?! Admitting something like that to a complete stranger! Ugh I'm going to rune my reputation and cats will try to get close to me. If they do I'll just bring them pain and anger. The molly screamed at herself silently. It was hopeless, she couldn't take it back now, not after admitting something like that to the ginger queen. Was it because she was a queen? With the scents of milk on her fur that made her admit that? Or was it the kindness she showed even when she was snapped at. That was a mystery to this feline. Even if it was something so small.

Hearing the other mollies voice again brought Oceanfur out of her troubled thoughts. Her name? Was that even important? Maybe, maybe not, no one could tell really. "Oceanfur..." She finally mumbled taking another bite of her lizard. Was it possible to make a friend knowing you'd just bring them pain? Or having the thought that they maybe waiting to betray you at any moment, waiting for you to mess up? It seemed to be but this blue-gray warrior still couldn't bring himself to do it willingly.

At her companions words, Strawberrythorn’s ears perked with interest, but her face was clouded with confusion. She didn’t get get how any cat didn’t like to be around others. She herself needed a lot of social interaction, other cats needed to know her. And she needed to know them. Strawberrythorn was quiet for a moment, her brilliant blue eyes taking in the molly in front of her. Hmmm... i feel like there’s more to her than she’s letting on. And I’m going to find out. Strawberrythorn had dubbed herself as a mastser of social interactions. She knew every social cue in the book, and she never felt any anxiety when talking to others. She was a forever queen after all. Honeythistle had made sure of that. But she’d once been a warrior too, so she was a warrior queen, the best of the best. “And would you mind telling me why that is?” She gently probed, smiling at the gray-furred feline. “It’s not everyday you meet someone who’s so.... antisocial? Is that what it is?”

Upon hearing the molly state her name, Strawberrythorn gave her a bright smile. “That is absolutely a gorgeous name. I love it!” She purred, flicking her tail slightly. Strawberrythorn hadn’t taken much bites out of her fresh-kill, instead more interested in talking to this molly, Oceanfur, who seemed so very different from her.

Originally Posted by Mauve

Her whiskers twitching in humor, Rosepaw had to clamp her jaws shut to refrain from laughing. It was funny to her when the kits around camp got mad. Their little bodies fluffed up in determination to defend themselves when in reality they were no match to really do that - at least not yet. "You sure it's not Squirtkit? You seem a little small to me," Rosepaw snorted, staring back at him with a mischievous grin. Now that she was closer, watching the details of the tom kit's face, it became apparent to her that he was blind. Oh, how fascinating she thought as her tail curled up behind her. Days had gone by with no real entertainment around camp, and StarClan had placed a little blind kit in her path. Perfect.

As Shiverkit stated his age as well, the light-furred molly simply snorted, shaking her head and glanced up to see if any other cat was watching them. Most of ShadowClan had their heads buried in their own paws and business, so Rosepaw turned back, tilting her head to the side. "You may be five moons, Squirtkit, but with eyes like those the only place you'll be roaming is the nursery." The fact that her words were harsh never occurred to the apprentice, as Rosepaw simply grinned and leaned in closer to Shiverkit, her breath billowing in his face. Her grin perked up more as her tail waved in the air behind her, uncurling and curling back up. "You do know that blind kits don't become apprentices, right?" she told him, mock concern lacing her voice. Now she had slipped into her rather serious tone, wondering if she could actually convince this kit that blind kits were thrown out. "I mean, Goldenstar practically throws them out on their sixth moon."

”Really, Squirtkit? That’s the best you can do? Well then why don’t I call you Dirtpaw? You clearly smell like it.” Shiverkit places his tail over his nose, feigning coughing. “Ugh the smell is so bad, I don’t get how you live with yourself!” He growled, though there was a slight laugh in with it. Shiverkit has faced plenty of hatred from other kits in the nursery, and so he’d learned how to defend himself. He’d learned how to be feisty, and not show any weaknesses. To him, his blindness was a strength. Because no cat would know what hit them when he actually did beat them at everything. They underestimated him. And Shiverkit hated being underestimated.

As she made a comment about his eyes, Shiverkit wasn’t even surprised. He knew she’d figure it out sooner or later, his blank stare wasn’t something he could exactly, well, hide. Not that he wanted to anyways. “You don’t scare me Dirtpaw. Clearly there are only two reasons you’re picking on me. One, you’re bored with your life and you can’t thonk of anything better to do than pick on a ‘helpless’ kit.” He rolled his eyes, emphasizing the word “helpless.” Shiverkit knew he was anything but helpless. “Or two, this helps you feel better, because inside, you’re hurting, because cats hurt you.” No cat could doubt the young kit’s intelligence. His father, Frostedflicker, was an older warrior with many moons under his paws, and Shiverkit had learned plenty from his old dad. Life lessons, social interactions, everything pretty much. And Shiverkit took it all in like a warm sun during leaf-bare. “Either way, it really makes you, well... dirt.” His growl was fierce, and his eyes narrowed, this time he pointed them towards her scent, to get the illusion that he could see her, and was looking at her.

Originally Posted by Brilliance

[ Expermient 2 ]
Taking an earlier nap was most likely...wasn’t the smartest idea. She recently woke up, having to nap when the sun was still up, but now it was gone. How much had the day passed? Granted, she spent most of her time with Dovecoo and Cloverwhisker, gossiping and laughing with her two favorite she cats - where she could be herself because they knew her. Besides, she was fond of a little play time with her niece and nephew. Dovecoo’s kits were still a little too young for play time. They were practically still wobbling on four paws.

Eventually, she figured it was time for a little beauty nap - her mother always said get plenty of rest to keep her fur rejuvenated and her features innocently young. She didn’t expect to sleep for long...her nest always been neatly organized, soft as feathers - her bedding consisted of soft moss as a base, flower petals overlaying it, covering the moss. She took her delicate time making her nest soft and pretty. She couldn’t complain that waking up and smelling like a mixture of flowers wasn’t a bad thing.

Eventually, she got to her paws, stretching every bone as best as she could before shaking her fur and going out into the wonders of the night. Albeit, she was hesitant to step paw in the opening. Most of her clan mates were rather ready to prepare themselves for rest, but she was wide awake - restless and agitated for some odd reason. She ducked silently, crawling through the clearing, hoping to avoid being seen or noticed by any of her clan mates. The night...the night should be hers. Where she was a ball of energy to run pleasantly through the shady part of her homeland. She shouldn’t have to be afraid of the night and it’s mysteries. The nights were taken, stripped of her freedom and train of thought of what she once knew. Last time she wandered alone...she closed her eyes, one paw in front of the other.

The moon was mighty bright tonight. A full one. Glowing down on the forest, it’s light filtered through the leaves of trees. It made her open her eyes, tilting her head slightly, a sweet smile gracing her face. The flicker of green light waved in front of her, blinking on and off. She scrunched her face in confusion until the insect landed on her nose. She sniffed, seeing its light flicker on and off, as if greeting her. Eventually, the bug left, causing Chrysanthemumshade to jump up bouncingly a moment later, chasing after the bug. Why not? No one was around to see her act so immaturely.

@RedHead

Wolfglare had been out, doing duties, almost the entire day. It had been a cooler day, thankfully, so the large, thick-furred tom had tried to get as much done as possible. He’d been on multiple hunting patrols, as well as a couple border patrols. He was beyond tired, but of course, the tom couldn’t sleep. His insomnia was always there, whenever he did try to get some rest.

Such as now. The dark-furred tomcat was laying just outside of the warriors den, trying to still his mind enough to at least get some rest, even if it was brief. But his mind kept me answering, from his family, to his brother, to some of the cats he’d talked to today, and then it landed on one thought. Chrysanthemumshade. The last time the two had talked, it hadn’t ended well. Wolfglare wasn’t mad about the situation any more, it would be silly to waste energy on that. But he still felt slightly uncomfortable. Like he had this feeling that she might still be mad at him. He figured from the beginning that she might have some silly fear of him, but from that last conversation they had, Wolfglare bad started to think maybe it was real, and not just silly.

As he was staring off into the distance, a movement caught his icy colored hues. Focusing his gaze, he spotted a silver pelt, and, as the feline turned her face, two large green eyes. Wolfglare would know those eyes anywhere.
As he watched his friend, he became slightly suspicious. She looked like she was creeping around. Why is there a reason to creep around camp? He’d never had a problem with going out o camp whenever he wanted. What’s she up to?

Getting to his paws, Wolfglare followed the silver feline, staying to the shadows as not to give himself away. He had to see what she was up to. And she couldn't know he was doing it.

[vellichor]

Originally Posted by Empress Of Evil

[All good ^^]
“Of course,” Cardinalsnake responded, dipping his head in a respectful manner as well. Although the tom was smiling and polite on the outside, he felt a small flame of anger flickering inside him. ‘Of course, you probably already know that,’ the tom mocked in his mind. What? You’re famous now so you have the right to say that? Even when you’re so new to the position? How arrogant! Cardinalsnake thought. Halfgaze never did that. Actually, she probably had said it a few times. Deep down, the warrior had to admit that pretty much every deputy would’ve spoken a similar set of words at least once and he didn't mind that, but he didn’t like Windygale very much, so the tom was going to criticize pretty much everything that he had to say.

Cardinalsnake knew that he was being quite unfair. After all, the Somali hardly knew the deputy! But out of loyalty to his best friend, he felt the need to be unfair. I’ll make this hard time, rather than a joyous one, his vibrant green hues glowing wickedly, although the evil in his gaze was only there for a few seconds, making it hard for anyone to catch that look. He quickly put on an expression of delight, as if he totally loved the idea of being able to talk to the tom. As if.

“Not too bad,” he replied, shrugging his shoulders. Well at least there weren’t any dark thoughts behind that response. “How about you?” he asked back. The tom could tell already that the conversation was getting a little awkward. Neither of the warriors seemed to have anything that was particularly interesting to say. They would just have to settle for small talk for the time being, until one of them could bring up an interesting topic.
Realising that he was still standing, Cardinalsnake quickly seated himself down beside the deputy, making it clear that he was going to be here for a while. “Oh, how’s the role of deputy going?” the tom suddenly asked, once Windygale had given his response. He had decided that this would be the perfect way to subtly start pressuring the deputy, the perfect way to make him break.

The other feline seemed calm and polite, which reassured the deputy. He'd been getting a lot of attention since he had become deputy, which was definitely a change from the quiet life he'd lived before. Some of that attention, though, had been... well, negative. Pressuring. Stressful, to say the least. He didn't do too well under pressure. He only got to that level of stress, though, when he thought about how he was to be leader someday, possibly. About how the Clan would be his responsibility, how he'd have to make the decisions. And with the war looming over all of their heads, it was nearly impossible to imagine he'd keep his upbeat attitude for long. With the tiniest shake of his fuzzy head, his amber eyes cleared, and he gazed at the feline standing in front of him.

A strange glow in Cardinalsnake's gaze caught the deputy's eye, but before he could work out what it was, it was gone, replaced by delight. He didn't have much time to consider what it may be before the other feline questioned him.

"That's good..." he replied awkwardly, trailing off into silence. "I can't really complain, I mean I'm doing... fine." Ugh, why did he have to be so awkward all of the time? Why couldn't he just have a decent conversation with some new cat without turning it into an uncomfortable situation? It was simply small talk; nothing interesting, nothing really defining about the cats. Almost every cat, including himself, usually replied something along the lines of 'Not too bad' or "Pretty good'. Well, not standing. Cardinalsnake quickly sat down, and Windygale began to follow suit. Then, he realized he was already sitting. With an embarrassed look that quickly went away, he readjusted himself so that he was sitting straight, but not rigidly. He curled his tail around his paws, making him seem... perhaps polite, but not quite overconfident.

A bit startled by the sudden question, Windygale tipped his head to the side. It was a question he was usually asked, so he gave his usual answer. "Well, I think it's going pretty well... It definitely takes some adjusting to. But I like the job," Windygale shrugged his shoulders.
@Empress Of Evil

[Doodle]

Originally Posted by Arié

Ravenvine nodded slowly, still having having his eyes set on the animal that, he was next to sure, would jump on him. Still focused he forced out his name through gritted teeth, "Ravenvine - the halfblind outcast." His tail twitched at the last thing but he nodded toward the spider. "Would you please, get rid of that...." he shook his head and pointed with his tail - at fair distance to be said - "...thing." He was still pressed up against the she-cat and finally sensed her discomfort, so he moved around her, going to hide from the 'monster' behind her back. It did offer him more safety, but he wouldn't admit it. Incase this was something that could be used back at him.

Tuftbreeze shifted her eyes from the tom to the spider, then back to the tom again. Ravenvine. Now that he'd introduced himself, she was sure she'd at least heard his name before. "Well..." she paused, not sure how to respond to the tom's words. Before the molly could think of something to say in reassurance, as she was sure one was supposed to in this situation, Ravenvine spoke again. She nodded quickly, glad that he was moving behind her- while she could feel his presence behind her, at least he wasn't pressed up against her anymore. The molly reached a paw out, using it to squash the tiny spider. She wiped the dead thing from her paw, shaking it out afterwards to ensure it was clean. Tuft didn't exactly want to cleanse it with her tongue, as she knew the taste of spider and it wasn't desirable. "All gone," she announced, shifting to face the tom once more. "And I guess my introduction should match yours better, so let me try again. Tuftbreeze- the antisocial outcast." She tried a smile again, the gesture coming out more as a grimace. Still, she was proud of herself for that line. It sounded pretty clever, at least to her.