RiverClan Territory

[RedHead]

Originally Posted by AbsurdJinx

Quillpaw looked at the handsome russet-colored tomcat with excitement. Awesome! He thought, relishing the fact that he would spend his first time out in the territory with Spicepaw. Then he realized... Spicepaw was such a long name, and it would take up much of the two apprentices' time. Therefor, Spicepaw would become Spicey. He flashed his new friend a bright grin, preforming a small, kit-like jump of restlessness. Quillpaw released an excited laugh, wondering when he'd get to hear Spicey laugh again.

``Yes!`` Quillpaw cheered in a light tone, his bushy tail wildly waving behind him as it posed in the air. ``Let's go explore!`` Once again, just in an attempt to rid himself of some energy, he jumped, which moved him slightly closer to the older apprentice. And then, as if he knew where he were going, Quillpaw, with a soft chuckle, lead Spicey further away from the rushing river. His tail continued to wave cheerfully, and that foolish grin remained on his face. He had his eyes closed, and he walked with such confidence, anyone would believe Quillpaw knew the territory like the back of his paw. Unfortunately, the younger apprentice knew nothing of the terrain around him. His forepaw slipped beneath an unfairly-placed root, and when he went to place his next step, he found himself racing towards the ground.

With a shriek of shock, Quillpaw's body sped to the surface. His screech was cut off by a grunt, brought on by the impact of his chest hitting the ground. His forepaws were stretched beneath him, almost like he was reaching for his toes. Meanwhile, his hind legs were sprawled behind him, as if they had just preformed a crazy dance and had collapsed in exhaustion, too tired to care about how they appeared. His neck was stretched out, his chin simply lying against the rough ground. And his tail lied between his legs, pointing straight ahead, the tip moving slowly. Instead of wailing in pain, Quillpaw burst out laughing, pulling his forepaws from beneath him until they rest at either side of his head. His flanks rose and fell with every breathy chuckle.

Deciding to make the best of the situation, Quillpaw called out to Spicey. He refused to allow himself to feel embarrassment, so he hid his shame beneath amusement. ``Spicey!`` Quillpaw cried, his tone laced with laughter. ``Help! I've fallen...`` Laugh. ``And I can't get up!`` Laugh.

Spicepaw still couldn't understand how one cat could be so happy. Even with the fact that the two apprentices were in no dangerous situation, his companion still seemed like he would just smile and laugh in danger's face. Not in a brave way, though no offense to the multi-colored tom, but more in a way like he didn't understand the danger. That's what Spicepaw felt like Quillpaw would do. So, as Quillpaw turned to head into the territory, the russet tomcats ears perked in surprise. He's acting like he knows the territory, inside and out! Spicepaw quickly got to his paws and rushed to catch up with Quillpaw, his paws slipping slightly in the mud that was close to the bank of the river. He was able to keep his balance, but he carefully padded after his fellow apprentice.

Upon spotting the root in Quillpaw's path, Spicepaw called out to him. "Hey, there's a root! W-" His sentence was cut short as a shriek erupted from Quillpaw, then there was a "thud" as he hit the ground. Spicepaw winced, flattening his ears a little. "Watch out." He finished, but his voice was quiet, knowing his warning would do no good now. He waited for the tom to start moaning in pain, or even worse, start crying. With how young he still was, just barely out of the nursery, Spicepaw supposed a fall like this would injure him greatly. He stood behind the tom, debating whether or not to go ask if he was okay. The tomcat wasn't good at dealing with injuries or sad and hurt cats, he didn't know how to comfort them. That was more of his sister Cricketpaw's job.

When the sound of laughter could be heard, Spicepaw's ears perked up in confusion. Is he laughing about the fact that he just got hurt? Respect for Quillpaw instantly flooded into Spicepaw. He knew most cats that were Quillpaw's age would probably complain, or worse, cry about it. But Quillpaw was simply laughing, no complaining word exiting his mouth. Spicepaw visibly let out a sigh of relief. He was dealing with so much right now, he didn't need another bad thing to be added to his life.

Spicepaw then realized he should probably be helping Quillpaw to his paws. He padded towards him, but then stopped at the sound of his voice. Wait, did he just call me "Spicey?" The russet apprentice had never been given a nickname before. Sure, some of his family members called him Spice from time to time, but Spicey? That was a whole new level of naming. But, as he thought about it, the ton realized he didn't mind it too much. Especially coming from Quillpaw, Spicepaw thought it was cute. He finished walking up to Quillpaw, looking down at him and smirking a little. "Maybe you shouldn't of been in such a rush. Sightseeing takes patience you know." He meowed, amusement lacing his words. He then placed his shoulder against Quillpaw's to help him up. But as he did it, Spicepaw couldn't help but admire the softness of the other tom's fur. And the colorin, closer up. Spicepaw was slightly jealous of Quillpaw's pelt. He had always wished he had a fluffy pelt, but he was stuck with a short one. Although his fur was smooth and silky, he'd rest her have a soft, poofy pelt.

Originally Posted by Lonestar23

Padding through the territory always gave Jasperpelt time to think. Time to reflect, and time to wonder. That might be one of the reasons that he loved the place so much, because he could get away. And Jasperpelt, as it was known, loved his alone time. Oh of course, others were constantly around... and he loved his time with friends, and meeting new friends, as well. But every once in a while it was nice to get out alone. Breathing in the fresh, if not somewhat humid air of the territory, the tom wasn't exactly looking where he was going. He had never been "coordinated" anyways. And of course, what should he do but walk straight into Shellfeather. Jasperpelt thought he recognized the cat... but it was like looking at a ghost, like someone he either hadn't seen in moons or had only seen in a faraway dream. Staring for a moment, the tom realized he still hadn't backed up. And that made for an awkward encounter. "I'm so - I'm so sorry, I... I didn't, um... I didn't mean to - to bump into you, h - ha..." The awkward laugh at the end didn't make it any better. He thought it might lighten tension, but the fact that his voice still felt awkward and shaky didn't help. It was as though he were either a young warrior or an older apprentice talking to his crush all over again - except, that wasn't the case. He wasn't one to fall too quickly. And especially not that quickly.
(@RedHead)

Shellfeather had been just calmly sitting by a small stream running through Riverclan territory, thinking about her current situation right now. Each breath was shaky as she let it out, she was weak from trying to hold in her emotions. She had come out here to calm herself down, to give herself positive self-talk. But negative thoughts kept plaguing her weakened mind, pushing her closer and closer to breaking down. She already was on the verge of tears, and she could handle only so little more before she broke.

When she heard the crack of a twig and rustle of the reeds behind her, the white-furred molly turned to look at who it was, her gray ears perking up slightly. Hope blazed in her chest. Maybe it was Russetstar coming to apologize. Maybe it was Scorchingflame. Shellfeather wanted it to be Scorchingflame. She missed her best friend so much, so much that it hurt more than anything she was going through right now. But as she took in the scary, disappointment sliced through heras it was not recognizable. Yes, it was a Riverclan scent, but no, it wasn't Scorchingflame's. As a dark-furred warrior padded out of the reeds, Shellfeather watched him, and he seemed to be advancing on her, he was coming closer and closer. She backed up a little, wondering why he wasn't stopping. He ended up pressed against her, and Shellfeather stood there, fur on end. She stared back at him, and thankfully soon enough he backed up. Shellfeatger let out a small sigh of relief, and forced a small smile when he apologized. She didn't want to be rude to anyone just because she was dealing with her own problems. "Oh don't worry, it's completely fine." She meowed, her voice strained with sadness that she tried to hide.

[lone]

Originally Posted by RedHead

Spicepaw still couldn't understand how one cat could be so happy. Even with the fact that the two apprentices were in no dangerous situation, his companion still seemed like he would just smile and laugh in danger's face. Not in a brave way, though no offense to the multi-colored tom, but more in a way like he didn't understand the danger. That's what Spicepaw felt like Quillpaw would do. So, as Quillpaw turned to head into the territory, the russet tomcats ears perked in surprise. He's acting like he knows the territory, inside and out! Spicepaw quickly got to his paws and rushed to catch up with Quillpaw, his paws slipping slightly in the mud that was close to the bank of the river. He was able to keep his balance, but he carefully padded after his fellow apprentice.

Upon spotting the root in Quillpaw's path, Spicepaw called out to him. "Hey, there's a root! W-" His sentence was cut short as a shriek erupted from Quillpaw, then there was a "thud" as he hit the ground. Spicepaw winced, flattening his ears a little. "Watch out." He finished, but his voice was quiet, knowing his warning would do no good now. He waited for the tom to start moaning in pain, or even worse, start crying. With how young he still was, just barely out of the nursery, Spicepaw supposed a fall like this would injure him greatly. He stood behind the tom, debating whether or not to go ask if he was okay. The tomcat wasn't good at dealing with injuries or sad and hurt cats, he didn't know how to comfort them. That was more of his sister Cricketpaw's job.

When the sound of laughter could be heard, Spicepaw's ears perked up in confusion. Is he laughing about the fact that he just got hurt? Respect for Quillpaw instantly flooded into Spicepaw. He knew most cats that were Quillpaw's age would probably complain, or worse, cry about it. But Quillpaw was simply laughing, no complaining word exiting his mouth. Spicepaw visibly let out a sigh of relief. He was dealing with so much right now, he didn't need another bad thing to be added to his life.

Spicepaw then realized he should probably be helping Quillpaw to his paws. He padded towards him, but then stopped at the sound of his voice. Wait, did he just call me "Spicey?" The russet apprentice had never been given a nickname before. Sure, some of his family members called him Spice from time to time, but Spicey? That was a whole new level of naming. But, as he thought about it, the ton realized he didn't mind it too much. Especially coming from Quillpaw, Spicepaw thought it was cute. He finished walking up to Quillpaw, looking down at him and smirking a little. "Maybe you shouldn't of been in such a rush. Sightseeing takes patience you know." He meowed, amusement lacing his words. He then placed his shoulder against Quillpaw's to help him up. But as he did it, Spicepaw couldn't help but admire the softness of the other tom's fur. And the colorin, closer up. Spicepaw was slightly jealous of Quillpaw's pelt. He had always wished he had a fluffy pelt, but he was stuck with a short one. Although his fur was smooth and silky, he'd rest her have a soft, poofy pelt.

Shellfeather had been just calmly sitting by a small stream running through Riverclan territory, thinking about her current situation right now. Each breath was shaky as she let it out, she was weak from trying to hold in her emotions. She had come out here to calm herself down, to give herself positive self-talk. But negative thoughts kept plaguing her weakened mind, pushing her closer and closer to breaking down. She already was on the verge of tears, and she could handle only so little more before she broke.

When she heard the crack of a twig and rustle of the reeds behind her, the white-furred molly turned to look at who it was, her gray ears perking up slightly. Hope blazed in her chest. Maybe it was Russetstar coming to apologize. Maybe it was Scorchingflame. Shellfeather wanted it to be Scorchingflame. She missed her best friend so much, so much that it hurt more than anything she was going through right now. But as she took in the scary, disappointment sliced through heras it was not recognizable. Yes, it was a Riverclan scent, but no, it wasn't Scorchingflame's. As a dark-furred warrior padded out of the reeds, Shellfeather watched him, and he seemed to be advancing on her, he was coming closer and closer. She backed up a little, wondering why he wasn't stopping. He ended up pressed against her, and Shellfeather stood there, fur on end. She stared back at him, and thankfully soon enough he backed up. Shellfeatger let out a small sigh of relief, and forced a small smile when he apologized. She didn't want to be rude to anyone just because she was dealing with her own problems. "Oh don't worry, it's completely fine." She meowed, her voice strained with sadness that she tried to hide.

Looking curious as he glanced over the she cat, Jasperpelt cocked his head to one side. "I - I don't mean to... to bother you or anything like that, but, umm... what - what are you doing out here all alone?" He knew what he was doing, but not everyone shared the same appreciation for the beautiful territory that he did. It was the calmest place around. Now, the smart thing to do if he wanted time alone would have been to walk away. But something about seeing the silvery cat out here alone made Jasperpelt stop and think for a minute. He was always curious about his clanmates' lives. He was always wondering what they were doing, and what they wanted... and he loved to think about things like that. It gave him a sense of satisfaction. "I'm - I'm Jasperpelt, by the way. And... I - I think I've seen you before... but I can't quite remember your name, umm... what might it be?" He couldn't hold the eye contact and looked away quickly.
　
It was just one of the ebony feline's quirks, but at least he was being friendly. He never knew quite what to say to be comforting, but his physical contact was always nice. Jasperpelt could somehow tell when to and when to not be clingy, when he was wanted and when he wasn't, and his thoughts were always organized... but when he tried to open his maw and let others know how he felt, or give them advice in speech... it often didn't go as well. Honestly any topic of conversation, from the weather, to anything else, would come out too quickly and he would repeat words as though he were reading the same line of a script again without realizing it. Waiting for an answer, the tom carefully avoided eye contact... to him, it would be awkward and strange. Not to mention he just couldn't hold it for very long. He would look up, look down or away, and then look up again when he felt he could. It was odd and he hated the way it made him appear. Like there was something mentally - or perhaps physically - wrong with him.

[vantrums]

Originally Posted by BluBunny

Fernkit chuckled, "They can be at times, but when you're a kit they're usually pretty friendly." He stopped as they came by the entrance of the den. "It sounds like they're sleeping right now but you can peak your head in and look. They're not so scary." He purred. Any cat could hear the loud snores coming from inside the Elders' Den.

(I just realized we are in the territory and not the clearing..? Oops)

(( Yeahhh I realized that after a few posts... We could always move it. ))

Shellkit tentatively walked forward, his flicking tail giving away his nervousness. With how loud the snoring was, the elders had to be huge! There was no way he was going to be caught off-guard, even if Fernkit said they were generally nice to kits. Leaning forward on his toes, he pushed his head into the den and blinked a couple times to adjust to the low light level. The floor was littered with sleeping mounds, and the snoring was even louder inside the den than outside. The patched tom flattened his ears and backed away quickly so as not to disturb the older cats.

[BluBunnie]

Originally Posted by vantrums

(( Yeahhh I realized that after a few posts... We could always move it. ))

Shellkit tentatively walked forward, his flicking tail giving away his nervousness. With how loud the snoring was, the elders had to be huge! There was no way he was going to be caught off-guard, even if Fernkit said they were generally nice to kits. Leaning forward on his toes, he pushed his head into the den and blinked a couple times to adjust to the low light level. The floor was littered with sleeping mounds, and the snoring was even louder inside the den than outside. The patched tom flattened his ears and backed away quickly so as not to disturb the older cats.

((I'll go ahead and move it, I'll mention you!))

[Hexict]

Originally Posted by Lilly

Cricketpaw had been so wrapped up in her own thoughts that at first she didn't hear Hephaestus speak. Going over and over in her head what her dream could've meant, and if she should tell Geckoleaf of it. It seemed rather strange, feeling more at home in StarClan than she did in RiverClan. It had to be just because of her mother, correct? Her coming home, bringing along Spicepaw with her, just stirred up old feelings of unease and hunger, memories that the Bengal would much rather forget than relive. But soon the sweet words made their way to her ears and she snapped her head up, eyes wide with alarm. "W-Who are you?" she gasped, shaking slightly from the strange tom having caught her off guard. Her own reflective blue eyes studied him - he didn't seem to be a RiverClan cat, since his scent was somewhat undetectable to her, but something about him seemed familiar.

Swallowing a bit, paws nervously fidgeting below her in the dirt, she tried to straighten up - after all, medicine cats were exempt from any violent, weren't they? "I was just gathering up some herbs to bring back for my mentor. My name is Cricketpaw, I'm RiverClan's medicine cat apprentice," she answered him, remembering the question he had asked after first stepping out from the bushes. Something about the way he was watching her, as if she were a piece of prey, sent shivers down the back of her spine, but her faith in others prevented her from fleeing. Instead, her first instinct was to see if this traveler was okay. After all, she had figured out by now he didn't belong to a Clan, because if he did it was one that Cricketpaw had never heard of.

The young RiverClan medicine cat apprentice swiveled her ears towards him as she awaited his reply. Her heart pounded in her chest, feeling as though she was on the edge of some life changing event, though she couldn't pin-point what exactly. To her, he was just a normal passerby, perhaps curious about the Clans. Not a Syndicate guard. Not a trained fighter. After the recent turmoil within the Clan regarding Blackgaze, her mind wasn't sharp enough to realize the potential danger she was in, standing here along with Hephaestus.

Standing just a few pawsteps away from her imminent death.

Ears perking with interested, the tom was a bit surprised by his luck. How did he happened to just find the medicine cat apprentice? Though the Syndicate cat hadn't spent as much time within the clans as most do, he was aware of the importance of a medicine cat and their apprentice. But was surprised that he was lucky enough to have stumbled across one in his fit for revenge. If he were to be able to kill the apprentice to the medicine cat, then that would hurt the clan emotionally and physically. Cricketpaw was to become Geckoleaf's successor, and without her that would cause difficulty for the clan. Not only that, but they would also mourn the young molly's death - and with any luck it would cause Geckoleaf to be unable to fulfill her usual duties while she grieves.

Besides, it should be easy to take one down... medicine cats and their apprentices are weak - they don't know how to fight.

Although he usually would banter and hold some small talk, the tom was too angered and was already flexing his claws as he thought about shredding the spotted molly. His mind was already playing ahead, though he knew he didn't have to plan this fight out too much. He planned on killing Cricketpaw and quickly departing. The tom knew that there were sometimes patrols, and even though he did wish to hurt Mistfall and Riverclan, he was not looking towards getting caught for his actions. If he did, then how would be be able to continue and hurt this stupid clan? Sadly he knew this would have to be quick, not something he could draw out and full enjoy. But thinking about the clan's reaction upon finding the dead body of their medicine cat's apprentice would have to do.

"Sorry kit," the red guard stood taller now, shaking out his fur. He did look outwardly calm despite his violent thoughts. "I would usually talk for a bit before getting down to business, but this is something too good and I just can't contain myself," deep blue orbs flashing menacingly as he glare down at the medicine cat apprentice. Hephaestus lashed his tail one more time. "This isn't really about you but rather you'r clan... and doing this to you with hurt the clan. Just don't fight back and it will end quicker," his wicked grin grew as he snarled out the last few words before launching himself as the smaller cat with outstretched claws.

(escalating quickly X3 - and kinda short, sorry :/)

[The Cannibal]

Originally Posted by BluBunny

Minnoweye tilted his head as he listened to the she-cat, her voice sounded friendly and he wondered what she looked like. His tail twitched a bit as she asked to join him, she didn't mention the fact he was blind and she didn't seem to concerned about him being alone in the territory. 'Maybe she is just wants to walk with me.' He thought. He bowed his head towards the voice, "Well, it's nice to meet you Cobaltshade. I am Minnoweye." He mewed in his deep voice. "I wouldn't mind at all." He gave Cobaltshade a friendly smile. One thing that had always bothered Minnoweye was that he could never tell what his facial expression was nor could he tell what others facial expressions were. He always hoped he didn't looked stupid or that his smile wasn't goofy, he lifted his muzzle into the air before stepping a few paces closer to Cobaltshade. "May I walk close to you? It makes it easier for me to tell where you are, it also gives me an idea of what you may look like." He said in a friendly tone, although he could feel the vibrations in the ground, sometimes cats would wander away or get distracted and run off so it made it difficult for him to find them again.

Good, he doesn't seem offended by my request. I worded it right. Sighing in relief in her mind, Cobaltshade relaxed a bit. It was always difficult understanding other cats emotions, she never quite knew how a cat would react to what she said and she never liked that. She liked knowing what would happen, she like predictability. But now that the big moment was over, and she knew that the other cat was offended by her offer to walk with him, she felt sure of herself again.
"A pleasure to meet you Minnoweye." Keeping the smile on her face, she would carefully look him over again, the tip of her tail flicking slowly back and forth. The smile he gave was most certainly a unique one, but Cobaltshade was warmed to think that he would at least try smiling at her. Surely it must be hard for a blind cat to know how to do these things, especially since they've likely never seen another cat to know how to smile or know what a smile looks like rather.
When he took a few steps towards her, she didn't move back, but figured that it was likely to get a better sense of her, considering he couldn't exactly see her.
"Please do get as close as you're comfortable with, I don't mind." Encouraged the she-cat to the blind tom, standing in the same spot she had stopped to introduce herself. If he wished to be so close as to brush sides, she wouldn't mind. Normally she didn't like much close contact with other cats, aside from her mate of course, but she could make an exception for Minnoweye. "Do you go out on walks often?" Cobaltshade asked in curiosity.

[BluBunnie]

Originally Posted by Duskflight

Good, he doesn't seem offended by my request. I worded it right. Sighing in relief in her mind, Cobaltshade relaxed a bit. It was always difficult understanding other cats emotions, she never quite knew how a cat would react to what she said and she never liked that. She liked knowing what would happen, she like predictability. But now that the big moment was over, and she knew that the other cat was offended by her offer to walk with him, she felt sure of herself again.
"A pleasure to meet you Minnoweye." Keeping the smile on her face, she would carefully look him over again, the tip of her tail flicking slowly back and forth. The smile he gave was most certainly a unique one, but Cobaltshade was warmed to think that he would at least try smiling at her. Surely it must be hard for a blind cat to know how to do these things, especially since they've likely never seen another cat to know how to smile or know what a smile looks like rather.
When he took a few steps towards her, she didn't move back, but figured that it was likely to get a better sense of her, considering he couldn't exactly see her.
"Please do get as close as you're comfortable with, I don't mind." Encouraged the she-cat to the blind tom, standing in the same spot she had stopped to introduce herself. If he wished to be so close as to brush sides, she wouldn't mind. Normally she didn't like much close contact with other cats, aside from her mate of course, but she could make an exception for Minnoweye. "Do you go out on walks often?" Cobaltshade asked in curiosity.

Minnoweye felt a small wave of relief, he was glad the she-cat was comfortable with him walking near her. "Thank you." He mewed before making his way next to the she cat, he was only close to barely brush pelt but now when she walked he could feel the vibrations better. He tilted his ears towards her as she asked the question, "Yes I do, I like to keep the territory fresh in my mind. I've walked all over the territory and tried to remember every scent so that I don't get lost. I also like to have time to myself." He said. "I've mastered the art of sneaking out without any warriors noticing, most of the time when they see that I'm leaving they want to escort me. Then they spend the whole trip worrying about me like a kit." There was a bit of distaste in his voice and his tail twitched slightly in irritation. He hated being treated like a kit, he may need help with some things but definitely not walking around his clans territory! "Do you patrol the borders by yourself every day?" He asked, slightly tilting his head.

[AbsurdJinx]

Originally Posted by RedHead

Spicepaw still couldn't understand how one cat could be so happy. Even with the fact that the two apprentices were in no dangerous situation, his companion still seemed like he would just smile and laugh in danger's face. Not in a brave way, though no offense to the multi-colored tom, but more in a way like he didn't understand the danger. That's what Spicepaw felt like Quillpaw would do. So, as Quillpaw turned to head into the territory, the russet tomcats ears perked in surprise. He's acting like he knows the territory, inside and out! Spicepaw quickly got to his paws and rushed to catch up with Quillpaw, his paws slipping slightly in the mud that was close to the bank of the river. He was able to keep his balance, but he carefully padded after his fellow apprentice.

Upon spotting the root in Quillpaw's path, Spicepaw called out to him. "Hey, there's a root! W-" His sentence was cut short as a shriek erupted from Quillpaw, then there was a "thud" as he hit the ground. Spicepaw winced, flattening his ears a little. "Watch out." He finished, but his voice was quiet, knowing his warning would do no good now. He waited for the tom to start moaning in pain, or even worse, start crying. With how young he still was, just barely out of the nursery, Spicepaw supposed a fall like this would injure him greatly. He stood behind the tom, debating whether or not to go ask if he was okay. The tomcat wasn't good at dealing with injuries or sad and hurt cats, he didn't know how to comfort them. That was more of his sister Cricketpaw's job.

When the sound of laughter could be heard, Spicepaw's ears perked up in confusion. Is he laughing about the fact that he just got hurt? Respect for Quillpaw instantly flooded into Spicepaw. He knew most cats that were Quillpaw's age would probably complain, or worse, cry about it. But Quillpaw was simply laughing, no complaining word exiting his mouth. Spicepaw visibly let out a sigh of relief. He was dealing with so much right now, he didn't need another bad thing to be added to his life.

Spicepaw then realized he should probably be helping Quillpaw to his paws. He padded towards him, but then stopped at the sound of his voice. Wait, did he just call me "Spicey?" The russet apprentice had never been given a nickname before. Sure, some of his family members called him Spice from time to time, but Spicey? That was a whole new level of naming. But, as he thought about it, the ton realized he didn't mind it too much. Especially coming from Quillpaw, Spicepaw thought it was cute. He finished walking up to Quillpaw, looking down at him and smirking a little. "Maybe you shouldn't of been in such a rush. Sightseeing takes patience you know." He meowed, amusement lacing his words. He then placed his shoulder against Quillpaw's to help him up. But as he did it, Spicepaw couldn't help but admire the softness of the other tom's fur. And the colorin, closer up. Spicepaw was slightly jealous of Quillpaw's pelt. He had always wished he had a fluffy pelt, but he was stuck with a short one. Although his fur was smooth and silky, he'd rest her have a soft, poofy pelt.

Quillpaw took note that Spicepaw hadn't objected his use of `Spicey`, further fueling his joy. Based off how serious and straight-forward Spicepaw appeared to be, Quillpaw had assumed the russet-colored tomcat would warn him not to ever use the nickname ever again. Simply the air around Spicepaw was full of seriousness, but Quillpaw wasn't complaining. Honestly, Spicepaw's seriousness made Quillpaw happier, because when he was able to get Spicey to put his lighthearted side on display, Quillpaw felt prideful, because then both apprentices were clearly happy.

Speaking of pelts... Quillpaw didn't much care for appearances. Sure, he flaunts quite a unique fur pattern, but his fur was rather messy. His coat lacked smoothness, and instead, every tuft pointed in a different direction. Even after a thorough wash, his pelt refused to be tamed. For example, if he were to draw his rough tongue along his flank for a decent amount of time, and then pull away, messy tufts would sprout from the previously-flattened pelt. Quillpaw believed Spicepaw bore a gorgeous pelt. Spicey was a handsome tomcat, Quillpaw could not lie. He wondered how soft and warm Spicepaw's smooth, russet pelt was.

And then, Spicepaw intentionally pressed his own shoulder against Quillpaw's, which honestly did shock the younger apprentice. He hadn't expected Spicey to be so willing to preform physical contact - especially with a stranger. Though, Quillpaw didn't think both him and Spicey were strangers. From his point of view, they were already good friends. And he had proof. Spicey offered Quillpaw a tour, had supported the conversation, attempted to warn Quillpaw of the threatening root, and helped Quillpaw to his paws. Immediately, he admired the older apprentice. After all, what was not to admire? The tom was handsome, strong, and most important of all, kind - though, unfortunately, Spicey was also quite reserved, Quillpaw had observed. But then again, everyone had their flaws.

Quillpaw was not yet completely aware of his orientation. Being a kit just a day ago, he hadn't yet had interest in, well, interests. Yes, he might've had a kit-crush or two, but he saw his kit-crushes as just that - kit-crushes. All his kit-crushes were simply good friends of his. He thought that the feeling you got when you were interested in someone was a friendly feeling. For all he was concerned, Quillpaw wasn't interested in love; he was just really friendly.

With their shoulders pressed against one another, Quillpaw used Spicey's weight and strength to his advantage. Once stably on his four paws, Quillpaw glanced at Spicepaw, and suddenly, his face began to heat up. He had abruptly realized how close the two toms had been, and for some unknown reason, their close proximity had embarrassed him. His heart raced fast, and he purposely avoided Spicey's gaze, watching his nervously-shuffling paws. For once, Quillpaw was not the happy-go-lucky tom he had just acted as. He chuckled nervously before raising his head and looking at Spicepaw, an embarrassed smile on his face. He laughed that anxious laugh once more before meowing, ``My bad. I'm not a very patient cat.`` Quillpaw was speedy in just about everything. ``Thank you, though - for helping me up. I really appreciate it.`` He looked at his new friend with appreciation, but also innocence. He was an insanely innocent apprentice, being strongly naive and kit-like.

[spade]

Originally Posted by Hexict

Ears perking with interested, the tom was a bit surprised by his luck. How did he happened to just find the medicine cat apprentice? Though the Syndicate cat hadn't spent as much time within the clans as most do, he was aware of the importance of a medicine cat and their apprentice. But was surprised that he was lucky enough to have stumbled across one in his fit for revenge. If he were to be able to kill the apprentice to the medicine cat, then that would hurt the clan emotionally and physically. Cricketpaw was to become Geckoleaf's successor, and without her that would cause difficulty for the clan. Not only that, but they would also mourn the young molly's death - and with any luck it would cause Geckoleaf to be unable to fulfill her usual duties while she grieves.

Besides, it should be easy to take one down... medicine cats and their apprentices are weak - they don't know how to fight.

Although he usually would banter and hold some small talk, the tom was too angered and was already flexing his claws as he thought about shredding the spotted molly. His mind was already playing ahead, though he knew he didn't have to plan this fight out too much. He planned on killing Cricketpaw and quickly departing. The tom knew that there were sometimes patrols, and even though he did wish to hurt Mistfall and Riverclan, he was not looking towards getting caught for his actions. If he did, then how would be be able to continue and hurt this stupid clan? Sadly he knew this would have to be quick, not something he could draw out and full enjoy. But thinking about the clan's reaction upon finding the dead body of their medicine cat's apprentice would have to do.

"Sorry kit," the red guard stood taller now, shaking out his fur. He did look outwardly calm despite his violent thoughts. "I would usually talk for a bit before getting down to business, but this is something too good and I just can't contain myself," deep blue orbs flashing menacingly as he glare down at the medicine cat apprentice. Hephaestus lashed his tail one more time. "This isn't really about you but rather you'r clan... and doing this to you with hurt the clan. Just don't fight back and it will end quicker," his wicked grin grew as he snarled out the last few words before launching himself as the smaller cat with outstretched claws.

(escalating quickly X3 - and kinda short, sorry :/)

(there is no one i would rather have bring an end to cricketpaw. thank you for doing it swiftly with little to no pain c,: XD)

The young feline tilted her head at his confusion - so obviously he wasn't Clanborn. She could've guessed that much, but to not know what medicine cats were? He didn't seem like part of the Syndicate either. They had healers similar to their medicine cats, didn't they? At least that's what she'd been told as a kit in the nursery. If she remembered that correctly. With all the recent stress that had clawed at her recently it was hard to sort out earlier memories of her life before being appointed as medicine cat apprentice. But this strange tom seemed to dwell in a state of victory. Maybe he had been looking for a medicine cat. She perked up a bit, adrenaline beginning to surge through her veins like fire. Perhaps this would be her first chance to truly help someone in need. Quickly, Cricketpaw did a once over of Hephaestus, studying his structure and pelt for any signs of physical injury. It didn't seem like there were any, and the Bengal furrowed her brow in thought.

As the next expression registered on his face, along with the flexing of his forepaws, was Cricketpaw's first indication that this was a little unusual. For the first time, she was able to study his stature, and saw that he was much bigger than she. At least twice her size, if not more. A brief moment of panic registered on her face, and the molly suddenly realized that she might be in a bit of a predicament if he turned out to be unfriendly. His mind seemed to be working behind an unreadable mask of slit eyes, blue orbs that felt like icy as they bore into Cricketpaw's own sapphire ones. Chills traveled from her ears to tail tip and she winced visibly, the fur on her neck rising just by a hair. "I-I mean no harm to you. I won't even tell Russetstar you were here," she stammered, shaking her head as she spoke, offering a shaky laugh as she tried to diffuse the tension that was sparkling in the air. Of course, she would tell her Russetstar. Not only was he the leader, but her father. He needed to know of this strange cat.

She fully expected his guard to come down, and for him to admit that he was just a rogue passing through. But as the Syndicate guard began to speak again, all the blood in the medicine cat apprentice's veins turned to ice. Hurt my Clan? Don't fight and it will end quicker? What is he talking about? she thought, a quizzical expression taking over her face. An instinctual fight or flight feeling suddenly overtook Cricketpaw and she found her claws unsheathing without warning. As she watched him take a step closer to her, voice rising in anger, she knew one hundred percent that this tom was not here on accident. The malice in his blue eyes told her that this was a methodical plan that was to be carried out. Before she could get another word out, Hephaestus landed his strike, with Cricketpaw rolling backwards.

A flash of pain struck her chest as the guard met his target, and the apprentice let out a startled yowl. Having received no battle training whatsoever, the young molly was completely unprepared to defend herself. Gasping for breath, she began to flail her claws, trying to land any blow she could to her attacker. "Stop! What are you doing?" she screeched, ears flat against her head. She drew one forepaw back and aimed it for Hephaestus's face, hoping it would land and at least stun him, thought her hopes for that were slim to none.

Despite the chaotic moment that was unfolding, everything was slowed down in Cricketpaw's mind. She felt the sudden unfolding of her destiny, and for some unknown reason, the image of Northpath and their conversation appeared in her mind. It was brief, and barely registered for more than a blip in time, but a certain thought settled at the back of Cricketpaw's mind:

These were her final moments, weren't they?

[Sheepwarrior42]

PebbleKit kept walking, despite her paws yowling in protest. She stopped and looked at her tiny pads. They were cracked an bleeding,but if you weren't looking closely you couldn't tell. After escaping her loner mother that wanted to force her into a clan with that evil tom DeathStripe. He continually cut her pelt with sharp claws and refused her any service from there "Medicne" cat. She snapped back to reality as a yawn escaped her jaws. Her tiny body shivered and she began padding once again. She opened her jaws and smelled a un-familiar scent. She merely shrugged and yawned again. She found a small and covering bundle of weeds. She layed down and immediately fell asleep,not caring about who or what found her.