Clan Loyalty - Recently Updated Pages

StreamClan Territory and Boundaries

FlameoftheWest — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 21:39:46 CDT

This is [insert Clan name] territory; if you're not one of ours, leave. Territory is fiercely protected and boundaries regularly marked.

Overall Territory- [description]	[pic]
Best Hunting Place- Our main source of food is fish as they are plentiful all year round. The calm water makes this spot ideal for spotting and scooping them out of the water.
Camp- [description]	[pic, if possible]
Leader's Den- [description]	[pic]
Warrior's Den- [description]	[pic]
Elder's Den- [description]	[pic]
Medicine Cat Den- [description]	[pic]
Nursery- [description]	[pic]
Special Place- [description] (somewhere peaceful, where cats share tongues...)	[pic]
Boundaries- [description]	[pic]

RockClan Territory and Boundaries

~Volant~ — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 20:51:54 CDT

This is RockClan territory; if you're not one of ours, leave. Territory is fiercely protected and boundaries regularly marked.

Overall Territory- Most of our territory is filled with rocks and boulders. The lack of shrubbery makes us learn to be quick and unhesitant when catching prey. It also allows us to easily spot any enemy Clan that dares to cross our border.

Best Hunting Place- Hah, don't be fooled. Usually Rockclan territory isn't this lush. But this is the point in our territory closest to Streamclan, and so it is much greener. Prey like it here. However, if you hunt here, please be careful not to cross over to the other territory. I don't want a war.
Camp- This is our home. don't try to sneak in here; we all know each other very well, and we don't generally like unannounced visitors.	[No picture available due to security reasons]
Leader's Den- Not nearly as nice and luxrious as the other dens. Just a basic place to sleep. Also, it's not easy to sneak up on a place that has such a great lookout point.
Warrior's Den- This is where the Warriors stay. Like the Leader's den, it is very hard to sneak up on due to a nice vantage point on top.
Elders Den- The most luxurious den. As you can see, this is also very close to the edge of our territory, in a small copse of trees.It may not look like it, but it goes really deep and is really spacious inside.
Medicine Cat Den- This is where our medicine cat stays. If you zoom out a little bit,you could see that the majority of our herbs grow around here.
Nursery- Where our kit's are raised and cared for. This is in the middle of camp, well protected. Don't try to cross here and harm our kits. You will never be forgiven.
Special Place- Ahhhhh...let me brag, please, even if it may be ungrounded: there's not a prettier place in any of the Clans, especially at sunset. The perfect romantic getaway. You should see it on a night when the moon is full...absolutely breathtaking...
Burnclan Boundary Line- Yes. Do not cross.
Streamclan Boundary Line- Our rocky terrain quickly drops into a thin stream that divides Streamclan's territory from ours. If you cross the water, you're trespassing onto streamclan's territory. Even stepping into the water creates tension, so please, no swimming here. We have our own water hole for that.

RockClan

~Volant~ — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 15:17:08 CDT

Welcome to RockClan

Marblestar on RockClan

Hey! Who goes there! Slow down, don’t run! I’m not going to eat you, am I?

Ah, I see. A stranger. So close to our territory. That’s unusual.

Well, I smell no other clan on your pelt, so you must be alone. Please, come in, look around. See if you like RockClan, if you’d like to join us. We could always use another cat.

Though please keep in mind, my clan can be touchy. I can see you mean us no harm, but even with the same evidence that assures me, they’ll be a bit cagy at times. Tread carefully, my friend. I wouldn’t want you to be hurt on my land.

Ha! Don’t look so scared! Nothing will harm you while I’m here, I promise you. As long as you don’t try to attack anyone, you will be fine.

Clan character: In peace, we are good companions to come for help. In battle, we work well together and are forceful rather than stealthy. RockClan cats are close-knit and loyal, but we don't trust easily....
Prey: mostly rats, sometimes snakes and lizards.
Hunting Skills: We do like chases. We are also known to play with our prey.

RockClan Territory and Boundaries	Very rocky, of course. Streamclan is to the east; Burnclan is to the west.
RockClan Apprentice Training	Train your new apprentice/come her to be trained!
RockClan Members	Get to know us a little.

Chapter 1 & The Prologue

dovesong — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 06:28:52 CDT

This is only the BEGINING of Chapter 1. The Prologue is really short.

PROLOGUE

It was a night full of sounds. Cicada’s chirped in the grass, and the clan of warriors were restless. Ravenstripe had just been made warrior, and had been keeping a vigil. Rouge’s attacked their camp that night.

“Enemies!” the black tabby warned in alarm as he sprinted back towards his camp. Almost six powerful, brawny cats flooded into the SkyClan camp. The two queens, Shineheart and Lilacstream, guarded the nursery with the assistance of Hawkberry and his young apprentice, Snowpaw.

CHAPTER 1

“Enemies!” Ravenstripe ran into the camp, his eyes filled with terror. I jerked awake from my moss nest, nudging the other apprentices, Brushpaw, Quillpaw and Fishpaw. The other three apprentices hopped to their feet, eager at the prospect of fighting.

“Protect the nursery!” Stonethroat yowled from High Ledge, his mate, Lilacstream, nodded and unsheathed her claws.

“Snowpaw!” Hawkberry called to me, I bounded over to help my mentor protect the valuable den. I could hear the kits squealing in excitement, and uneasiness. The warriors all came surging into the flat stone area, ready to fight of the enemy cats. Fishpaw, my friend, came to fight beside me. A creamy brown tabby she-cat lunged at us, swiping a paw at Fishpaw’s flank. She dodged it, and I clawed at her open flank. Hawkberry was busy fighting an enormous black tom with Thistlefire. The elder’s had ganged up on a very small silver she-cat. The three elder’s hadn’t forgotten their fighting moves at all.

“Look at the elders!” I hissed to Fishpaw. Fishpaw purred for a brief moment, but the brown she-cat pounced onto her back, pinning her down for a second. I rammed into her, knocking her of.

"Thanks,” she murmured softly. I nodded, then turned to face the brown tabby. Preparing to come up on her flank, then knock her over, I was startled by the piercing cry that I nearly tripped over my feet. Fishpaw laughed, and I playfully swiped her ear, forgetting the enemy was watching.

“Stop!” one of the rouge’s cried out, “We wish to join your clan!”

Stonethroat growled fiercely in reply, “Then why did you attack our clan? You raid our camp, injure our clanmates, you expect us to let you join?”

The rouge, a white tabby with gray stripes, answered, “We wished to see how strong you were. If you were weak, then we wouldn’t want to join. But we know see that you are a fierce, tough clan, and we wish to join. After all, you are not very numerous.”

Stonethroat was about to growl a reply, but Springstar intervened, “We shall see. How about two moons of probation? If you care to continue, and we approve of you, then you may join.”

The white tom nodded in agreement, then glanced at Stonethroat, “Very well. I am Longfeather. We come from WindClan. We broke away; Onestar is a foolish leader, an amateur. We spoke with Firestar, and he told us about SkyClan. Thank you for your hospitality.”

“I am Thymefoot,” the creamy brown she-cat that we had been fighting said. One by one they introduced themselves: Cloudfur, Riverblossom, Timberfoot, Shrewclaw and Lakepelt. Stonethroat accepted the rouge’s, and then ordered for the warrior’s den to be expanded. Salmonfoot and Fallingshadow immediately got to work, along with a few others.

The rouge’s were all warriors. They claimed they had been in WindClan. Two of our elders, Mintwhisker and Tinyfern, remembered tales about how Firestar and Sandstorm had came to our gorge and revived the clan. All of the elders remembered them. Sorrowheart was the single kit of Sharpclaw, Leafstar’s deputy.

“Welcome to SkyClan,” I greeted shyly to a silvery-white she-cat. She introduced herself as Riverblossom. She purred, and, to my dismay, left to meet the other warriors. Why would a powerful warrior like her want to chat with an apprentice like me? I scolded myself.

“She was once a kittypet and has been abused brutally by other cats…she’s really delicate,” adviced a massive brown tabby. He looked at my face and started to purr in amusement, “I’m Timberfoot. May StarClan light our destinies.”

I nodded, and replied, “I’m Snowpaw, Hawkberry’s apprentice. You fight very well.”

“Thank you,” the tom answered automatically. Another rouge, this time a small brown tom, came up and tapped Timberfoot on the shoulder. Timberfoot sat down, and explained, “This is my brother, Shrewclaw. You’ve already been introduced, but over there is Cloudfur and Lakepelt. You know Longfeather, the white tom over there,” he pointed towards Thistlefire and Salmonfoot, “And that’s Thymefoot.”

“You must be Snowpaw, Hawkberry’s apprentice. I informed your leader on your fighting skills,” she told me. I purred in thanks. I left them quietly to find Fishpaw who was talking with her mentor, Fallingshadow.

She told me that she was glad the rouges had joined us. They were strong and nice. We talked about the arrival of the rouges with Brushpaw and Quillpaw until Stonethroat called Fishpaw, Fallingshadow, Swiftbrook and Graybird to a border patrol. Quillpaw and Brushpaw were going on assessments, and I was left in the camp.

“Snowpaw!” I whirled around at the flick of my name. Longfeather, the obvious leader of the group, had called out. He looked me in the eye, I shriveled under his harsh glare, “Snowpaw. Bramblestar told me to inform you that the rising star will bring false loyalties. He told me to warn you that you must never think you can trust anyone.”

“Thank you, Longfeather,” I nodded, turning to sit in my comfortable den and ignore his ominous words.

“One more thing, before you go,” Longfeather added, “He said that you would ignore his words. Remember them. Also, you must remember that tigers run with the wise.

“Thank you, Longfeather,” I repeated, and left before he could mention anything else. I could feel him watching me as I left.

I didn’t want to think about his words, but as the day progressed, a more looming feeling of guilt passed over me. I was tempted to tell Hawkberry, Redberry, or even Springstar. I ignored them all, and managed to get some decent sleep. I awoke at dawn. Quillpaw was still sleeping. I, thankfully, remembered that Stonethroat had ordered that Brushpaw and Fishpaw be on the dawn patrol. I lingered in the camp, helping the warriors continue to expand the den to make room for the rouges. Right after the dawn patrol came back, Springstar summoned a clan meeting.

“All cats old enough to catch their own prey, join here beneath Rockpile for a clan meeting!” Springstar’s confident mew echoed through the camp. I loved hearing her voice. I poked my head out to listen, “I call you together to witness one of the most important rituals of out clans. Hawkberry, do you believe that your apprentice Snowpaw has learned the skills of a warrior? And does she understand what the warrior code means to every cat?”

“She will for not until forever,” he answered solemnly. I beamed with glee. Springstar usually didn’t tell apprentices when their ceremony was to begin.

“Swiftbrook, do you believe that Quillpaw has learned the skills and duties of a noble warrior?”

“He will remember then for the rest of his life,” she answered. Quillpaw was purring also. Springstar asked the same question of Fishpaw, and told us how her own apprentice, Brushpaw, had fulfilled his requirement also. “Quillpaw, Brushpaw, Fishpaw and Snowpaw, do you promise to uphold the warrior code and to protect and defend this Clan, even at the cost of your life?” she asked.

I tingled in excitement, and recited, “I do.”

“Then by the powers of StarClan, I give you your warrior names. From this day forth, Quillpaw shall be known as Quillfoot. We honor your fore-thought and cautiousness,” she licked his face and he stepped back into the group of chanting warriors. She named Brushtalon as Brushpelt, and Fishpaw as Fishcloud. Finally, she named me, “Snowpaw, you have portrayed knowledge and bravery it tight times. It is time for you to receive your warrior name. From this day forth, you shall be known as Snowstream. We welcome you to the ranks of SkyClan!”

“Quillfoot! Quillfoot! Brushtalon! Brushtalon! Fishcloud! Fishcloud! Snowstream! Snowstream!” they chanted. I could feel my eyes glitering with happiness. The six kits looked up to us in admiration.

Lightkit murmured, “I want to be like Fishcloud!”

“Well, I want to be like Snowstream!” Palekit retorted.

The warriors started to swarm around the others. Timberfoot came up to me, “Congratulations, Snowstream.”

“Thank you Timberfoot,” I told him whole-heartedly.

We sat out silent vigil. The night was cold, and chilling breezes ruffled out coats and we shivered. The sky was a deep midnight blue, and we huddled next to each other for warmth. Brushtalon had the thickest fur. Fishcloud dozed of for a bit, we nudged her awake. The night was the longest one I would ever remember. The sun rose, and we wearily trekked back into camp. Fallingshadow, Graybird and Thistlefire were up for the dawn patrol.

“Good morning, rough night? Our den was freezing,” Graybird greeted. We agreed, and Quillfoot asked if we were permitted to eat. Graybird let out a mrrow of laughter, and answered, “Of course. After that vigil, I’d eat three foxes!”

“Let’s go,” Fallingshadow told them, her voice was faint. Thistlefire nodded, flicking his tail at the exit of our camp, Graybird dipped her head and followed the senior warriors. One by one, the warriors woke up and left their den. Stonethroat had ordered Fishcloud, Goldenstripe and Swiftbrook on a hunting patrol. The dawn patrol had returned back, and Springstar gathered a round of warriors to come with her on the sunhigh patrol.

“I’ll come,” Salmonfoot and Ravenstripe offered.

“Any more?” Springstar asked.

“I’ll come, Springstar,” I offered. Springstar nodded, and raced up the cliff.

When I had been a kit, one of the young warriors, Violetsky, had ran up too quickly in an unsteady stop, and it had collapsed beneath her. Redberry hadn’t been able to fix her broken legs, and she had been killed. The queens all told their kits that, so that they knew how dangerous and hazardous it was for untrained cats.

Salmonfoot, Ravenstripe and I glanced at each other, remembering Violetsky and cautiously jumped up the cliff on the normal pathway. We could hear Stonethroat sending out another hunting patrol. It was Thistlefire, Hawkberry and himself. All of the rouges haven’t been on a single patrol yet, I considered.

“Salmonfoot, have you noticed how none of the rouge have been on a patrol?” I asked him. He nodded.

“Maybe Stonethroat wants them to get used to being with other cats, and in out territory. Remember, out pads are like stone to the other clans,” he logically replied. That makes sense, I calmed myself. Getting carefully up the hill took some time, so by the time we got to the top, the sun was half-way between sunhigh and sunset.

“Do you suppose Springstar will wait for us?” Ravenstripe fumed when we got the top of the plateau, and didn’t spot Springstar’s ginger coat. We patrolled the borders normally, and returned back to camp. A fox had strayed onto our territory, but our borders were clear other than that. I told Stonethroat, and informed the nursery. Shineheart’s litter, Frogkit, Palekit and Juniperkit, were getting big. They’d be apprenticed soon. Maybe I will get an apprentice, I though excitedly. It was unlikely, but Sparrowpelt and Cherrytail had gotten apprentices the same day they became warriors.

Finally, Stonethroat asked, “Where is Springstar?”

“She jumped up the cliff where Violetsky had gone, and we didn’t see her a the top. We assumed she had gone back…so we continued to patrol,” Salmonfoot informed Stonethroat. He was one of the senior warriors, so Stonethroat wouldn’t get too angry.

“Very well.”

The gray tom was angry, but he acted calmly. He send out two scouting parties, Graybird, Thistlefire and Fishcloud, and then Quillfoot, Brushtalon and Swiftbrook. They left worridly, and came back after sunset.“Any luck?” I whispered to Fishcloud when they had reported to Stonethroat, and had settled down.

“Much luck as finding a flying fox!” she scoffed. My mood dropped, if we didn’t find Springstar by tomorrow…

“You must remind her again!” a dark brown tabby tom with black stripes snarled at cat reminding me of Longfeather. The cat nodded, but the dark tabby continued, “If she does not know…then SkyClan will fall to ruins!”

“Yes, Tigerstar…I scent someone, come out!” he summoned. I didn’t budge. “Come out!”

He whirled around, facing the bracken that I was hiding in. He eyed the brambles.

“It is she,” the cat referred to as Tigerstar hissed. “Snowstream! Show your self.”

I stepped out shyly. The two cats glared at me, but then Tigerstar’s look softened. “I am Tigerstar. I was leader very long ago. Longfeather, you are dismissed. I will inform her.”

Longfeather nodded, and backed away into the shadows, fading from my dream. Tigerstar kept talking, “I am one of your ancestors.”

“W-what did you want Longfeather to tell me?” I asked nervously. Purring, he reminded me of the ominous prophecies that Longfeather had mentioned earlier. I didn’t want to hear.

He dismissed me, and the dream faded.

“Snowstream!” Longfeather’s voice growled urgently. My eyes flicked open, the warrior’s den was empty, only Longfeather and I. “Snowstream, tell me what Tigerstar said!”

“H-he just told me about the prophecies you had already mentioned!” I squeaked.

“Longfeather, it isn’t your job to go around intimidating the new warriors!” Thymefoot chided. He nodded, and stalked passed his mate.Thymefoot glanced at me with an unusual hard glare, and pranced after Longfeather. I lingered in the den, then went out to look for Stonethroat for something to occupy my mind.

“Great StarClan! Everyone wants to be busy!” Stonethroat growled angrily when I came up to him to ask about a patrol, “I’ve already got more than enough patrols running around. We need someone to guard the camp!”

“Yes Stonethroat,” I whimpered and backed away. It had been noticeably empty. I hadn’t seen the SkyClan camp as empty as it was now for moons. Looking around, I noticed that all of the rouges were still in the camp. I padded up to Timberfoot, the most easy-going of the rouges, and sat down.

“Do you know why Stonethroat isn’t having us do anything?” he asked me in a bland tone. I shrugged, and sat quietly. The rouges were noticing it too…it wasn’t just me. The other rouges slowly appeared from various dens. Longfeather seemed to still be touchy from earlier, but Thymefoot was helping to calm down his irritable mood. The other rouges noticed it too, and tried to aggravate him too much.

“Snowstream, do you know if your clanmates still refer to us as rouges?” Shrewclaw questioned.

“I suppose so. It was an abrupt decision on Springstar’s choice,” I admitted shamefully. Shrewclaw nodded. One by one, the patrols came back without any word of Springstar’s location. Fishcloud joined me with the rouges, and we just talked until Stonethroat summoned a meeting.

“All cats old enough to catch prey, join here beneath Sky Rock!” he summoned. The voice was unusual, we were used to Springstar’s soft, mellow voice. His was harsh and seemingly annoyed.

“Where is Springstar?” Thistlefire yowled in protest, “You shouldn’t be calling Clan meetings!”

A low murmur of agreement, Stonethroat glared at us. I could feel Mistbird and Fishcloud shrivel under his brutal glare. I broke away from is gaze, and looked at my paws. One of the elders protested loudly along with Thistlefire.

We looked to Stonethroat, but instead, it was Redheart who spoke. “I have received a sign from StarClan. I was gathering some herbs yesterday, they were all fresh. Usually they will rot within a few dawns, but the freshest one withered under my sight just now. It is a sign, a spring flower has just died. Springstar is no longer alive, and Stonethroat, as he is deputy, is required to become our leader.”

We looked at him in disbelief. Stonethroat had been her deputy for many moons, and we expected him to die much sooner so a more noble warrior like Salmonfoot or Hawkberry could take her place. Stonethroat was just to aggressive and ambitious…and too touchy. He was usually cranky, which was not good for our clan. The prophecy warned me about something…I should be on my watch for anything suspicious. I tell myself. I pace to the center of the crowd, listening to Stonethroat tell us about how sorry and he grieves for Springstar.

I glance at our medicine cat, Redheart. His face reveals his thoughts, he doubts Stonethroat’s claim to leadership. Springstar had plenty of lives, and she hadn’t needed to die young.

“Springstar have seven lives left!” I hiss to Timberfoot. He nods, and murmurs something to Shrewclaw, who tells the other rouges. Finally, Stonethroat ends the meeting and leaps of the rock to talk to Redheart who doesn’t look too excited with the new leadership.

“Do you think Stonethroat will be a good leader?” I hear Ravenstripe ask Thistlefire.

“As good as a flying hedgehog with five legs!” Thislefire snapped, stalking off to find his mate, Shineheart. Ravenstripe grumbled something that I couldn’t hear, and then left to find Hawkberry. I went to find Fishcloud, Quillfoot and Brushtalon . I wanted to hear what they thought about the new leader.

“Stonethroat was good as a deputy. Not as great as a leader, I think,” Brushtalon replied. As the leader’s apprentice, he would have a good, solid reply.

“I don’t know…he certainly has the warrior code and skills down…but I’m not so sure if he has our warriors’ trust,” Quillfoot answered quietly. Quillfoot had always been a bit jittery and nervous. Fishcloud didn’t reply. Her mentor, Fallingshadow, was Stonethroat’s sister…so she wouldn’t have a negative opinion on the leader-to-be.

“Snowstream!” a voice called from across the clearing. I nodded in thanks, and trotted away. It was Redheart. Salmonfoot glanced at me and then left. He had snagged a claw while descending from the cliff to tell the clan about Springstar. “Snowstream. Longfeather mentioned something about a prophecy…would you be willing to share with me? As you did not before?”

The prophecy! Why hadn’t I told Redheart about it? “Well…Longfeather told me that Firestar said to say that the rising star will bring false loyalties.” I told him quietly. Redheart nodded in consideration.

“Thank you. You may go. I hear Stonethroat calling you,” he dismissed, turning his back to me. I tentatively walked out and went to where he was sitting.

“Snowstream,” he greeted. I nodded, and sat down to where he beckoned to, “Snowstream…who is you father?”

“Sorrowheart,” I murmured. I didn’t look like her at all.

“Who is your mother?”

“I don’t know.”

“I do."“Who is she?” I whispered, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to know. I could sense tension in the air, and I felt nervous as a cornered mouse.

“A she-cat by the name of Sasha. One of Tigerstar’s mates. You were raised by Skyfeather. I brought you to the clan. You were the third kit in her litter. Hawkfrost, Snowstream and Mothwing. Do you know who my father is?” I shook my head. “My father is Tigetstar.”

“I have heard he was an ambitious, skilled warrior,” I answered honestly. He purred for a moment.

“Are you willing to become my deputy? I know your skills, and I believe that you can be a good deputy, and maybe you will outlive me,” he said. I gasped. I hadn’t had an apprentice!

“But I haven’t had an apprentice!” I protested.

“I have had a sign. I mentioned it to Redheart, I will provide a reason why. Just wait for the ceremony. I just wish you not to be surprised.”

“Yes, Stonethroat, thank you.”

He nodded, then dismissed me to take a nap. Longfeather found me as I left.

“What did he say?” he hissed. I explained to him what Stonethroat had said. He looked astounded. He recovered from shock in a minute and left to the area in which most of the rouges stayed. He’s going to tell them about the prophecy! I thought. I had no change to ponder it for a time, because Stonethroat called a meeting.

“Cats of SkyClan, I call you again to proclaim the deputy of SkyClan. I speak these workds before the spirits of my ancestors, that they may hear and approve my choice…Snowstream will be the new deputy of SkyClan!”

Before I had a chance to respond, the soothing voice of Swiftbrook cried out, “But she had not had an apprentice!”

“Let me explain: When I went to the river to ponder the position of our clan…I saw for a moment, the river freeze over. It was a stream of ice and snow. I explained it to Redheart, and he told me it was a sign from StarClan, that even thought she has not apprentice, she is the right deputy.

“I think that StarClan is saying to you that you should step down and let her be leader,” Thistlefire objected. “It makes more sense if the send that to the deputy. If they wanted you to choose this…then why didn’t they send it to the medicine cat?”

“I do not choose the deputy for the leader. It is a choice on his part alone,” Redheart replied promptly, while his face betrayed his frustration.

“Then why did Stonethroat let StarClan influence his decision?” Thistlefire challenged. A few of the other warrior agreed, chanting ‘Snowstream is our leader!’

“Silence!” Redheart growled, overpowering their meek chants. They quieted, and listened to the enraged tom, “We have had a sign, and I have interpreted. This is my interpretation, and this is what I believe StarClan is saying. Anyone who thinks differently…StarClan will judge your motives.”

That silenced the crowd. They looked to Stonethroat to say some more.

“Further more, I would like to name Frogkit, Juniperkit, Palekit and Oakkit their mentors, as they have come to their sixth moon. Salmonfoot, you have shown your ability to stay calm in peril and vast warrior skills, we trust that you will pass them to Frogpaw,” the two cats touched noses. The young apprentice’s face shone with pride.

“Fishcloud, you have shown your nobility and fighting skills with the rouge’s attack, we trust you will pass them to Juniperpaw,” the Juniperpaw licked Fishcloud’s shoulder. Stonethroat glanced around, watching the stunned warriors’ expressions.

“Brushtalon, you have shown your strength and skills in the rouge battle, we trust you can pass this on to Palepaw,” he touched noses with the quivering apprentice.

“Snowstream, you have shown your loyalty and intelligence in the face of StarClan, and we trust you can pass this on to Oakpaw,” I stepped forward and touched noses with the cream-colored apprentice. Thistlefire and Shineheart brimmed with pride, as we chanted the four apprentices’ names.

“One more thing, as the leader-to-be of SkyClan, I am preparing to travel to the Whispering Cave, so Snowstream shall be in charge until then.”

The warriors dispersed, and retreated to their dens. The newly named apprentices looked eagerly to their mentors for assignments.

“Oakpaw, there should be room in the apprentice den. I expect you to be ready for some training in the morning,” I warned him. My apprenticeship held high expectations, but it was rewarding to be going to the gatherings and accompanying Redheart to the Whispering Cave for dreams. I would make sure Oakpaw got all of that experience.

“Look! She's the deputy! Mother said she was very wise and thoughtful!” a pale gray tabby kit exclaimed. The other two scurried over to watch. Lilacstream purred, and ushered them back into the nursery. Shineheart would be joining the warriors’ den for a long time in many moons.“Thank you, Snowstream.”I nodded, then gave him a shove towards his den, and then pranced of to my den. It was odd, sleeping on the outside, when I was deputy. My ceremony had been very quiet and inconspicuous. I wonder what the elder’s will think! I laughed. They would probably think it was an omen from StarClan than I would be a terrible deputy.I woke up quietly. It was just a bit before dawn, and a few of the other warriors were stretching their limbs for a normal day. I carefully stepped around the sleeping warriors to meet my apprentice outside. Frogpaw and his mentor, Salmonfoot, were chatting quietly by the fresh-kill pile, which was rather low on food. Oakpaw and I would go hunting together later, I reminded myself.

“Morning Snowstream,” Goldenstripe nodded in greeting, “Who will be going on the dawn patrol?”

I was stunned. I hadn’t even given the dawn patrol a thought. I looked around at the surrounding cats. Goldenstripe, Frogpaw, Salmonfoot, Hawkberry and Ravenstripe were in the clearing. “Will you take Hawkberry and Ravenstripe?”

The two cats heard their names, and strolled over to listen. Goldenstripe nodded, and turned to explain the dawn patrol. Hawkberry eyed me cautiously, and then followed the beefy golden cat. It was to be expected, senior warriors that hadn’t been chosen as depury would feel jealous and spot several of my mistakes. The brown pelt of Timberfoot appeared in the corner of my eye.

Thinking quickly, I called out, “Salmonfoot, will you take your apprentice and Timberfoot for a patrol down by the stream? It would be good experience for him.”

“Yes, I want him to remember the scents,” Salmonfoot agreed. Timberfoot purred at the opportunity to contribute to the Clan, and nudged the nervous apprentice towards the flooding river. When the two patrols were out, I rested by the fresh-kill pile as there rest of the clan emerged from slumber.

Swiftbrook took a hunting patrol out, so the camp was close to deserted. “Snowstream!”

I turned towards Stonestar’s direction. He had received his nine lives, and was to be called Stonestar. He was sitting, Redheart’s bright pelt rustled in the faint breezes.

“Yes?”

“How many patrols are out?” I told him that two patrols, and Salmonfoot had taken his apprentice to the river with Timberfoot to learn the scents, “Ah. Good, the apprentices will have to learn the scents. Where is Oakpaw?”

“He is with the elders, I sent him to clear away their bedding and then take some fresh-kill. I was planning to take him on the sun-high patrol with me,” I replied as I thought about the future patrols. Stonestar noticed my deep thoughts, and purred at my actions that I guessed he had once repeated long ago.

“Good, I was wondering when Springstar would put the rouges to work,” he nodded in approval as he spied the rouges. “Snowstream, I would appreciate it if you kept an eye on Longfeather, I feel nervous about his touchiness. Also, Fallingshadow is moving to the nursery, and we will have just a few less warriors which is…dangerous.”

“Of course.”

Stonestar glanced at Redheart, and the padded towards his den. I dipped my head in respect to the medicine cat, and then made my way over to Fishcloud.

She purred, and playfully swiped her paw over my ears, “Congratulations, deputy. You’re quite the lucky cat these days, and apprentice, and a two new roles! So…when can I go on a patrol? I’m dying to get with Juniperpaw, she’s quite enthusiastic about learning!”

“That sounds like some Clan cat that was just appointed a warrior!” I purred, glancing at the orange apprentice. She was helping Oakpaw with the elders, “Well, you can go on the sundown patrol. I promised Stonestar that I would take Oakpaw on the sun-high patrol.”

“Snowstream,” I scented Longfeather’s unique scent, “So Timberfoot went on a patrol finally? I was getting worried about Stonestar’s thoughts on us.”

Cloudfur stepped forward with a shaky paw next to the white tom, “You don’t think he’ll chase us out, do you Snowstream?”

“Don’t worry, I won’t let him!” I comforted the fretful she-cat. The white she-cat nodded, then stepped back to join Riverblossom, who, thankfully, was sharing a vole with Mistbird. The community is accepting them! I thought with excitement. If they could break the strong barrier of different Clan blood, then SkyClan would have much more warriors and we’d be much stronger. Though the extra strength wasn’t very nessecary. We didn’t have any major rivals.

The prophecies! I reminded myself, Don’t forget the prophecies! The rising star will bring false loyalties!

BreezeClan Members

dovesong — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 06:12:54 CDT

Leader-	Zephyrstar- A pure white she-cat with fierce blue eyes. She is very tactical and an excellent hunter and fighter. She is always willing to listen to disputes. She is very agreeable and patient during the Gatherings, letting the others talk first. With her friends, she is very nice and friendly RPed by dovesong.
Deputy-	Smokefur- A proud, quiet she-cat. She doesn't take any insults, about her or her Clan. She is quick to defend and a little suspicious. She lost a litter of kits when she was younger, but doesn't like to talk about it. She brags about her skills but prefers to let the other cats fight. She will defend her Clan at any cost, though she tries not to show it. A rather harsh mentor, but wants what's best for BreezeClan. No RPer yet. Please messagecat4prowl or dovesong to apply.
Medicine cat-	Honeyfoot- An easily-irritated tom, despite his name. He hates being teased about his name and is very snappish. He doesn't like being asked to visit StarClan and he dislikes being ordered around. He is a little skittish, but he has his good side. He can be very soothing with sick cats and he takes orders from Zephyrstar, at least. Prickly, but not inside. RPed by cat4prowl Notice- if you'd like to RP Honeytail, please contact cat4prowl
Warriors-	Owlsong- A happy-go-lucky tom named for his large round eyes and feathery fur, as well as his attractive voice. He likes to joke around, especially with his apprentice. He can often be seen playing with his prey, and being scolded in turn. He doesn't always follow the warrior code, but he tries to as much as he can. RPed by ~Volant~.
	Foxheart- Foxheart is a shy she-cat but is very soft-hearted with kits, apprentices and elders. She is shy around warriors, deputies and leaders. She is very contrasting compared to her brother, Honeyfoot, and does not often refer to him as a litter mate as she is slightly ashamed by his behavior. She will often offer to baby-sit the kits as they all love her, and she will sometimes help the apprentices with their daily chores. RPed by southgathering
	Icepool- She is a quiet she-cat with strong muscles helping her hunt and fight with stealth and dead accuracy. She is skillful among the best of her clan. She is forever loyal to her leader and clan, and will fight no matter what the outcome is or will become. Her heart is ever devoted to Zephyrstar and BreezeClan. RPed by dreampool11 Notice- is looking for a mate in BreezeClan!
	Rushtail- Swifttail is a skillfur warrior with deadly fighting skills and unparralled hunting techiniques. No RPer yet. Please contact dovesong if you wish to apply.
Queens-	N/A
Elders-	N/A
Kits-	Blizzardkit (left)- a young kit that takes after her mother, Icepool. She is often in deep thought, but loves to play with her brother Rootkit. Rootkit (right)- he is a young kit that apologized for everything he does. He is not very intelligent and does very odd thinks like chewing on roots. He is strong, even thought he is slightly smaller than Blizzardkit. He is swift, and hates being teased about his size. No RPer yet. Please contact dovesong or dreampool11

Clans

cat4prowl — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 17:27:05 CDT

These are the four Clans that rule the forest. Territories and boundaries are patrolled daily, so don't linger in indecision for too long...

(click the pictures to visit their pages)

	BurnClan- Description: BurnClan is named for their fierceness and their sunny territory. The cats here have short tempers and raging pride.They enjoy the warmth immensely and often complain in Leafbare. They are fierce fighters, never giving up, and loyal to their Clan. Members: Moonclaw435 (Wildkit), dovesong (Mintwhisker), cat4prowl (Thistlestar)
	StreamClan- Description: StreamClan is named for their acceptance and the river in their territory. The cats here have understanding and tolerance for change. They are excellent fishers and don't mind going for a swim. They are clever fighters, alway surprising their opponents, and loyal to their Clan. Members:southgathering (Saffronstar), cat4prowl (Nightshine), FlameoftheWest (Sunstripe)
	BreezeClan- Description: BreezeClan is named for their swiftness and their windy territory. The cats here have quick-thinking and powerful determination. They run with the wind, and love the free feeling of wind in their fur. They are talented fighters, tiring their opponents out, and loyal to their Clan. Members:southgathering (Foxheart), Dreampool11(Icepool), dovesong (Zephyrstar), cat4prowl(Honeytail),~Volant~ (Owlsong)
	RockClan- Descriptions: RockClan is named for its dependability and their rocky territory. The cats here have wisdom and steady pride. They are excellent climbers, both rock and tree, and are able to hide well. They are wise fighters, out-thinking their opponents, and loyal to their Clan. Members:~Volant~(Marblestar), southgathering (Sorrowheart), cat4prowl (Creamfur),Moonclaw435 (Wolfpaw)

StreamClan Members

cat4prowl — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 17:25:14 CDT

Leader-	Saffronstar- Bright ginger tabby she-cat with warm orange eyes. She is a descendant of Streamstar. RPed by southgathering
Deputy-	Sunstripe- A respected, aggressive tom. He is less layed back than a lot of StreamClan cats but he is loyal. He is likely to jump to a fight but only under Saffronstar's permission. He is strict about borders and he is very bossy sometimes. Many cats might like to jump on him at times but he is trying to do what is best for his Clan. Demanding and fierce. RPed by FlameoftheWest
Medicine cat-	Whitesplash- A compassionate, instinctive tom. Named for the splash of white on his face and also for his tenancy to play with the kits in the stream. He is loyal to StarClan above all else and he is very good at handling conflicts. He likes to gather herbs and he is very gentle with the sick cats he has to look over. Respects his Clan but wants what is best for all of the Clans. No RPer yet. Please message cat4prowlor southgathering to apply.
Warriors-	Nightshine- A layed-back, playful tom. He has a hard time holding his tongue and he likes to play around, sometimes a little too much. He is a smart fighter though, and very curious. He is often called a kit for his childish behaviour, but he is quick-thinking when he needs to be. He has a habit of annoying Sunstripe. Now RPed by cat4prowl
Queens-	N/A
Elders-	N/A
Kits-	N/A

RockClan Members

cat4prowl — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 14:49:18 CDT

Leader-	Marblestar- A logical, patient tom. He thinks everything through before he makes a decision and trusts in StarClan for help. He has wisdom beyond his age, but he doesn't always show it. He makes mistakes like any other cat, but he is hard on himself about it. He is sometimes a little too patient for the other cats, but no one can doubt his loyalty. He is a fighter, famed for his unusual moves.RPed by~Volant~
Deputy-	Dawnsky- A loving, protective she-cat. She is often called the Queen of the Clan, because of the way she treats everyone like her kits. They listen to her though; she has a fierce side. She fights like a mighty tiger when her Clan is in danger and she has a good sense of what is right and what is wrong. Compassionate and wise. Mother of Creamfur. No RPer yet. Please message cat4prowl to apply.
Medicine cat-	Creamfur- A kind she-cat with a sharp tongue. She has a strong connection with StarClan and the other Clans. She is loyal to RockClan above all and would fight if she needed to. She doesn't like complaining or whining and is no-nonsense, which comes in handy after a big battle. She has a quick wit and a good knowledge of things. Daughter of Dawnsky. RPed by cat4prowl
Warriors-	Squirrelface- An irritable tom named for his fat cheeks. He is loyal and hardworking, but doesn't appreciate any comments about his face. He is quick to start a fight, but is actually a good listener if you make friends. His kin was killed in a famine, and he often feels lonely, not that he would let anyone know. Grumpy but not all the time. No RPer yet. Please message cat4prowl to apply.
Apprentices-	Wolfpaw- Wolfpaw is a violent little she-cat. She's very rambunctious and loves to hunt on her own. She's close to being a warrior but her dis-obeying attitude is holding her back. She is currently helping the elders as punishment for chasing a rabbit all the way into another clan's territory. She is Sorrowheart's grand-daughter. RPed by Moonclaw435
Queens-
Elders-	Sorrowheart- He is a battle-scarred tom given much up for the sake of his clan. He is very wise and soft spoken. He is preparing to join StarClan, but believes his clan will cope without him. Since he was one the deputy, Marblestar often relies and listens to Sorrowheart's opinions and advice during hardships. He was once called Stonethroat. RPed by southgathering.
Kits-

BreezeClan

dovesong — Sat, 31 May 2008 15:04:09 CDT

Welcome to BreezeClan

Zephyrstar on BreezeClan
So...

You think you can keep up with the ranks of BreezeClan?

I'll let you try...but you might falter along the way.

Our camp is a ways from here. Don't even try to find it, it'll never happen.

Anyways, I've strong warriors guarding it, you won't even make it three fox-lengths in front of it, let alone recognize it.

Aren't you going to leave my territory already?!?

Oh....I get in now....you want to join BreezeClan...

Well I suppose I can let you just learn about life in BreezeClan...

I bet you wouldn't even last one moon with us.

But I'll show you anyways...c'mon.

Follow me, and tell me about your self.

By the way, I'm Zephyrstar.

Did you ever get the sensation that you aren't alone?
Well, I'll bet that StarClan favors you...
I'm sorry I doubted you before..
I bet you'd make a great warrior!
If StarClan's been giving you dreams...you really ARE special!
Of course, they like me too, because I had a dream from the previous leader of BreezeClan that I was to become the next leader.
What? You think I'm full of myself?
Don't worry! I"m still waiting for confirmation from StarClan. I asked Moonstar.
She was the only one whom I could clearly see. Lilacstar was just a blur in the backround.

Sorry for you to hear my chatter...well, we're here!
Make sure to find yourself a place in the den, and just give me some backround so I can give you your clan name,
and your position!

Clan character: In peace, we are supportive and honorable. In battle, we are agressive and clever. BreezeClan cats are very loyal and also very reasonable.
Prey: Mainly rabbits, birds and occassionally a mouse.
Hunting skills: Fast, lean and swift.

BreezeClan Territory and Boundaries	The closest clans are StreamClan and BurnClan...be wary when patrolling.
BreezeClan Apprentice Training	No one has an apprentice...so don't even bother.
BreezeClan Members	(description here)

StreamClan

southgathering — Fri, 30 May 2008 13:21:32 CDT

Welcome to StreamClan

Saffronstar on StreamClan
Can you hear the water rushing? It's the river...
I love that sound...isn't it just delightful?
I couldn't live without it.
Want me to show you? I can take you to my camp...
and show you my den...
and introduce you to the wild!
Wouldn't that be exciting!?!

Clan character: In peace, we are respectful and patient. In battle, we are deadly and tactful. StreamClan cats are often the most tempered and protective of their clanmates.
Prey: Mainly fish but also water voles, shrews, and mice.
Hunting Skills: Strong swimmers, moving silent and scentless through the water. They scoop fish out of the water from the bank.

Links:

StreamClan Territory and Boundaries	If you are going to patrol...don't forget to check here!
StreamClan Apprentice Training	If you want an apprentice, or become an apprentice, go here.
StreamClan Members	A page to learn about your clanmates.

Welcome to Clan Loyalty

cat4prowl — Thu, 29 May 2008 20:39:38 CDT

When death sweeps the forest, will you be there?

Will you be holding vigil for those who have joined StarClan, catching prey for the weak?

When outside Clans threaten the camp, will you be fighting?

Will you be willing to die for your Clanmates, willing to bleed for your home?

When your loyalty is questioned, will you stay with your Clan?

Will you stay and prove yourself, or run like a kittypet?

When disaster strikes, can you hold strong?

Will you hold your clan together, or flee for cover?

The choice is yours, but loyalty rules the land.
∆∆∆

Welcome stranger, I scent no threat on your pelt so I will let you pass. If you seek to join one of the Clans, do so quickly. You cannot have a paw in two territories if you wish to live. No blood need be spilled quite yet, but consider this a warning. We do not tolerate traitors.

Please read the following before joining:

How to Join

Rules of the Land

Stranger, if you wish to join our world, we must trust you.

Do not ask for what you cannot, or do not, have.

StarClan

Moonclaw435 — Wed, 28 May 2008 21:43:59 CDT

Welcome to the realm of StarClan cats, whose knowledge and skill surpass all other. Not many members will be allowed to join StarClan, because they send prophecies and dreams to the Clans. Who knows, if you are an active member you may receive special instruction from the cats of the past...

Moonstar- A silvery, creamy she-cat with startling, clear, light blue eyes. She was once leader of StreamClan, but cats of all Clans looked up to her. She died in a battle against Twolegs and dogs. She is the most active cat of StarClan, often sending messages to Clan cats in dreams. If you receive a dream, you should tell your Clan leader right away. She watches over the Clans closely, you are never truly alone... RPed bycat4prowl

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
StarClan Cats That have not been Claimed to Role Play

Burnstar- The first leader of BurnClan. Burnstar was a fierce, proud tom who fought with the might of 10 lions. He had a short temper and a sharp tongue. He commanded respect and he followed the Warrior Code strictly. He died in battle, as he had always wanted to do.
Streamstar- The first leader of StreamClan. Streamstar was a skilled hunter with an understanding temperament. She was very close to StarClan in her time and she usually solved problems without starting a fight. She liked to brag about her Clan and was well known for her fearless leadership. She died in a flood after making sure her whole Clan got out safely.
Breezestar- first leader of BreezeClan. Breezestar was a persuasive, quick-thinking she-cat. She tended to do things her own way and was swift as the wind in the grassland. She was respected for her problem-solving and decisive leadership. She led her Clan with confidence and died in battle, shoved off a cliff.
Rockstar- first leader of RockClan. Rockstar was a dependable, wise tom. He was patient and had an intuition for leading. He trusted in StarClan to show him the way and was respected for his wisdom and his skill in battle. He often out-thought other cats and was a skilled warrior. He died of rat-disease after fighting for his Clan.

BurnClan Members

Moonclaw435 — Wed, 28 May 2008 21:41:00 CDT

Leader-	Thistlestar- A demanding, short-tempered tom. He can be a bit prickly (hence the name), but he is loyal and fair. He is very territorial and a bit grumpy, with an unusual soft spot for kits. He has been leader of BurnClan for a while and has made it strong, the way he likes it. A talented enough hunter but a master warrior. He commands respect, and does not like to look weak in the eyes of the other Clans. Now RPed by cat4prowl
Deputy-	Lionfang- A level-headed, calm tom. He is fiercely loyal but a lot more layed back about territories. He looks out for what is best for his clan and he makes sure they are safe. He can be a little paranoid but he is logical enough to think it all out. He is a quick warrior and a loyal cat. He has a habit of consulting Ashpelt when he is confused, because of her connections with StarClan. He is Mintwhisker's mate. No RPer yet. Please message cat4prowl to apply.
Medicine cat-	Ashpelt- An optimistic, knowledgeable she-cat. Her calm, bright manner often cheers up sick cats. She has an good connection with StarClan but can be a bit forgetful about herbs. She works well under pressure, and is a good listener. She is generally gentle but has a temper when cats are being mouse-brained. Loyal and kind. No RPer yet. Please message cat4prowl to apply.
Warriors-	Darkstreak- An easily annoyed tom, but a dedicated fighter. He has been a member of BurnClan for a long time and doesn't like changes. He sticks to the warrior code closely but doesn't look for a fight. He enjoys one when it happens, but he prefers to lounge in the sun. Sarcastic and fierce. No RPer yet. Please message cat4prowl to apply.

Queens-	Mintwhisker- Mintwhisker is a witty, charming she-cat who enjoys play-fighting. She is generally excited, but is very serious and focused in the face of danger. If needed, she can be straight-forward and practical. She is loyal to her clan mates, friends and her mate Lionfang. She is willing to do anything to protect her clan and the kits. RPed by dovesong
Elders-
Kits-	Wildkit- Wildkit is exactly what her name says. She is wild and reckless and very curious. However, she can be extremely responsible and loyal. She would never do anything to harm her clan, even if it meant harming herself. She is extremely graceful, thanks to her mother, Sootfur, who was from Breezeclan. She was born during winter and her mother gave her to her father, in fear of Wildkit's own safety. When Wildkit was given to her father she had a breathing problem and got white-cough a lot easier than other cats, however, she pulls through it. Wildkit is having a bit of trouble gaining certain cat's trust. She has a black and white coat and sharp, eagle-like, blue-green eyes.RPed by Moonclaw435

cat4prowl's FanFiction

cat4prowl — Mon, 26 May 2008 10:58:35 CDT

Hey, cat4prowl here! I do a lot of writing, so I've decided to do some Fan-Fiction. I'll be using BurnClan, StreamClan, BreezeClan, and RockClan but not the cats who are in them on this site.

I'm going to create sub-pages to post the individual chapters and comments/critiques would be appreciated in the threads on that page. You don't have to read them if you don't feel like it, it's just for fun.

If you want to make your own Fan-Fiction page, message cat4prowl.

Hope you enjoy the story, and please don't be shy about making comments, offering constructive criticism. Just remember the rules of respect still apply here.

A/N: I don't own the Warriors series idea, that would be Erin Hunter. I do own the character's and plotlines.

Enjoy!

Shrouded Sun Prologue- Lightning
Shrouded Sun Chapter 1- Bitter Uncertainty
Shrouded Sun Chapter 2- Challenge
Shrouded Sun Chapter 3- Prophecy and Punishment
Shrouded Sun Chapter 4- Lost
Shrouded Sun Chapter 5- Haze

Shrouded Sun Chapter 5- Haze

cat4prowl — Mon, 26 May 2008 10:57:56 CDT

When Sunpaw managed to open her eyes, she was overwhelmed with tiny details. The most unsettling was pain. There was a throbbing, swelling bruise under her right ear, an aching bite on her shoulder, scratches scattered about her fur, and a dull pain emanating from every muscle.

She was too stunned by the sudden feeling to do anything but gasp for air in strangled, toxic lungfuls. After a few moments of this, her breath scraped down her throat enough to satisfy her need for air. Then she was hit by a wave of smell, none of which she recognized.

And finally, overtaking her as if she were prey, came the memories. The hunting mishap, getting lost, Scram, and finally the treacherous Twoleg kits and the rock rushed over her, too much to take all at once. Fury immediately surged through and she made a weak attempt to stand, finding instead that her muscles protested.

“Lie still,” a voice commanded, sounding fuzzy, faraway.

At first, she thought it was Scram and she relaxed a little. The scrawny tom had done nothing but help her before, why should things be different now? Then a sudden memory hit, accompanied by a familiar scent. The memory of a pelt slipping between her and her sister flashed before her eyes. Thistlepaw.

Snarling, she was suddenly able to jump to her three feet this time. It was bad enough having every inch of her screaming, but to be seen so weak by another Clanmate!

“I said lie still,” Thistlpaw reminded her, stepping forward.

Sunpaw’s eyes flashed in anger, catching every detail. The shadows of the bush across her face, the bush she had crawled to after the Twoleg kits threw the rock at her. The uncertain way Thistlepaw stood, his weight positioned backward as if slightly afraid. The unfamiliar grass rolling away behind him…

“What do you want?” she hissed, starting forward. The pain that seized her entire body flared up threateningly, and she winced. Angry at her weakness, she took another step, attempting to ignore it.

“We’ve been looking for you…” he began.

But Sunpaw cut him off, “We? Where’s Brightpaw?!”

“She and Sparrowpaw went to get Owlpelt.”

“Why’d they leave you?” she demanded furiously. She would have much rather woken up to Brightpaw, annoying though she was.

“I don’t know!” he mewed defensively, “Brightpaw said something about us needing to talk…”

Sunpaw pictured her cream-colored sister happily ordering Thistlepaw to stay, picturing in her simple little mind how Sunpaw would forgive him… “I’m going to kill her,” Sunpaw decided.

Looking alarmed, Thistlepaw mewed quickly, “I-I think you better just lie down…”

“Oh really? Are you medicine cat apprentice now?” Sunpaw accused, starting to limp away.

“No,” Thistlepaw said slowly, and Sunpaw could see he was fighting the urge to argue, “but you look pretty bad.”

“I always look bad! I’ve got three legs!” She shouted randomly, hoping to provoke a fight. She ignored the pain searing through her and asked, “Now which way is camp?”

“Well you look worse,” he stated, ignoring her question.

Sunpaw collapsed angrily, her breath coming in short rasps. The pain in her head was unbearable, and she thought she might have re-opened her shoulder. Her muscles screamed; she could hear them in her head. High, deafening, a sort of ringing sound that flared with the pain. Staggered by the sudden wave of pain, she fought harder to stay awake.

“You should rest,” Thistlepaw whispered.

“Shut up,” Sunpaw murmured, “Foxdung.” She had meant it to be fierce, provocative, but it came out a fatigued whisper as her eyes snapped shut.
* * *
It was a voice, again, that awoke her. She remembered everything as she awoke this time; the pain came a little more slowly. But she still refused to open her eyes to the reality before her.

“…going to need some poppy seeds.” That was Owlpelt, his voice smooth like lazy sunlight.

“I have some here!” Brightpaw. Worried and anxious to help.

“What do you think happened?” She didn’t recognize this one easily, so she knew it was Sparrowpaw. He sounded curious, but also scared.

Owlpelt must have ignored him, because the next thing she felt was Owlpelt’s voice, urging her to wake up.

She replied with an irritable hiss, letting her eyes drift open slightly. All four cats stared down at her, their expressions varying from Owlpelt’s calm expertise, Brightpaw’s excited worry, Sparrowpaw’s curious, wary gaze, to Thistlepaw’s solid, unreadable expression.

Glaring, she began positioning her paws to stand up, ignoring the protests in her muscles.

“Stay down,” Owlpelt ordered and Sunpaw obeyed, too weak to do anything but. “Eat this,” he urged, motioning toward the small pile of poppy seed. Faintly, she flicked out her tongue and swallowed the herbs.

“It may take a while for them to sink in,” Owlpelt explained calmly, then turned to the apprentices, “We need to get her back to camp. And she can’t walk there.”

“We’ll carry her!” Brightpaw promised, giving Sunpaw what she obviously thought was an encouraging look.

“No,” Sunpaw growled, “You won’t.” She didn’t need anyone carrying her anywhere.

“Be reasonable Sunpaw,” Owlpelt mewed, almost a command, “Now, if we lay her across two of our backs, we should be able to manage.”

Sunpaw let out a hiss of protest, caught Owlpelt’s fierce gaze, and then nodded glumly.

In the next couple of moments, she found herself slung over Owlpelt and Brightpaw’s backs. She had refused to be carried by Thistlepaw or Sparrowpaw, convinced Thistlepaw at least would have dropped her on purpose.

It was comforting to have Owlpelt there; he seemed to know the whole territory by heart and often mumbled about where the herbs grew best. The journey seemed a whole lot shorter going back, but then Sunpaw might have fallen asleep.

When her eyes opened, proving to herself that she had been asleep, she was hidden in the dark edge of the medicine cat den. Too tired and confused to register anything else, she fell asleep to the steady rhythm of the ringing in her head.

Gatherings- Red Bluff

cat4prowl — Sat, 24 May 2008 18:08:58 CDT

Red Bluff is the Gathering place where all four Clans meet in peace every full moon under the will of StarClan. The sacred truce is not to be broken, and StarClan will cover the moon as a sign that they are angry if a fight breaks out. During the Gathering, the leaders take a place on one of the ledges of the cliffs, while the Clans gather on the ground around them.

BurnClan Territory and Boundaries

cat4prowl — Fri, 23 May 2008 20:42:06 CDT

This is BurnClan territory; if you're not one of ours, leave. Territory is fiercely protected and boundaries regularly marked.

Overall Territory- Most of our territory is grassy and filled with sunlight. We use the tall grass to our advantage, stalking prey easily. Kits and apprentices have been known to get lost, but once you learn the scents it's quite easy to navigate.
Best Hunting Place- At the edge of BurnClan territory, where the small forest starts, there is a little haven of prey. Many types of prey have burrows or dens near here and it is the easiest place to learn how to hunt.
Camp- BurnClan camp is near the forest, a little ways away from Twolegplace, in a semi-circle of trees. It is sheltered and easy to defend, but sunny enough for our liking.
Leader's Den- Underneath the tree that I address my Clan on is my den, dug beneath the roots. It is large and airy inside, but not many enter except me. (I know the hole looks weird, I onlyhad Paint to work with alright?)
Warrior's Den- There is room enough in here for a large number of BurnClan's great warriors. It is the least protected of the Dens, but then it does hold the fiercest cats. It opens up in the back a bit, and comfortably fits them all.
Elder's Den- The Elder's den is secluded and quite, winding back behind the far bush. It is also in a particularly sunny area, and the Elders of BurnClan get to enjoy the sun now as they have had all their lives. Smaller than the Warrior's Den, but spacious enough.
Medicine Cat Den- This den is the most open den in BurnClan. While the other's lurk through twisting, winding entrances, the medicine cat den is easy to access in a hurry. It is pretty small inside, but large enough to store a substantial amount of herbs.
Nursery- The Nursery is hidden on the ground inside of a large bush. This is the entrance, but the bush springs out on the sides before this and you have to scramble through the branches to get to the floor. Kits often complain that it is small, but it is bigger than the Elder's den.
Buttercup Meadow- This is the sunniest part of BurnClan territory; mates and sometimes the whole Clan come here to share tongues. It is very peaceful and gives off an extremely lazy mood. Even lying in the tall grass, the sun reaches them perfectly.
Boundaries- RockClan: this is where the meadows of BurnClan change to the rocky territory of BurnClan. Boundaries are marked daily. The visible borders are the two closest rocks. Thunderpath: This is the edge of BurnClan territory to the East. Most cats stay away from the monstrous Thunderpath and it's strange Twoleg things. Twolegplace border: This fence marks the border between our territory and Twolegplace, though we never come this far towards Twolegplace anyways.

BurnClan

cat4prowl — Fri, 23 May 2008 19:39:09 CDT

Welcome to Burn Clan!

Thistlestar on BurnClan
You there! Get out of our camp! The cats of Burn Clan are not to be reckoned with.
We are fierce, proud, and strong... and don't you forget it!
If you are spotted on our land by a patrol, we will not hesitate.
I suppose while you are here, I can show you the camp. But you must either leave or join us.
If you join us, you should be willing to die for your Clan and protect it at all costs.
We are NOT weak and we will not tolerate disloyalty.
You have been warned.

Clan character: In peace, tolerative of other clans, as long as they keep their distance. In battle, fierce and wild. BurnClan cats are strong and proud, with fiery tempers.
Prey: mice, ground squirrels, birds(occasionally), voles
Hunting skills: excellent stalking techniques

BurnClan Territory and Boundaries	These is our sun-bathed territory, respect the boundaries or face the consequences.
BurnClan Apprentice Training	Come here to train your apprentices into fine, strong warriors of our great Clan.
BurnClan Members	The cats here are the proud cats of our Clan, you would be crazy to pick a fight with any of them.

Shrouded Sun Chapter 4- Lost

cat4prowl — Wed, 21 May 2008 19:42:12 CDT

The biting stench of mouse bile-soaked moss made Sunpaw’s lip curl with disgust. Her ears were flat against her head as she dropped it near a gray-striped elder, Shortwhisker. Sunpaw let out a little growl as she started to knead the mouse bile into Shortwhisker’s fur.

“A little to the left,” Shortwhisker snapped, flicking his tail irritably. Sunpaw obliged, swallowing a sharp response. She was tired and angry, it was sunrise after the Gathering and she had already had to fetch mouse bile from Owlpelt for the elders.

“No need to look so down, Sunnypaw. We elders aren’t all bad, you know,” Mapleflower mewed, stretching out on her side.

“It’s Sunpaw, not Sunnypaw. And, with all due respect, I really don’t think so,” Sunpaw snarled.

“Why are you so grumpy?” Mapleflower mewed quietly, busy grooming herself.

Sunpaw heaved an aggravated sigh and stalked out of the elder’s den, calling over her shoulder, “I’m going to go get some moss.”

Luckily for Sunpaw, the elders really did need moss. And BurnClan’s supply of moss was pretty far from camp. Yawning, she started along. She didn’t think she was going to be able to stay with the elders much longer, and it had only been a moon! She knew she deserved it, but that only further fueled her anger.

“Hey Sunpaw!” Brightpaw purred, joining her sister and matching her pace easily.

“What do you want?” Sunpaw retorted, trying to go faster.

“How’re the elders?” Brightpaw asked, ignoring Sunpaw’s temper, and Sunpaw was disgusted to hear a note of sympathy in her voice.

“Fine. I’m getting some moss,” she mewed shortly, hoping to discourage her sister’s presence.

“I’ll come! I can help you carry it back. In fact, all of the dens need some moss; it’s been a while since someone’s gone all the way toward the pond to get some. We might need some more help,” Brightpaw’s eyes grew bright with excitement and before Sunpaw could stop her, she had added Sparrowpaw and Thistlepaw to their little patrol.

Sunpaw motioned her sister aside, “What are you doing?!”

“Aw, come on Sunpaw, we do need the moss, and it’s a chance to play with some of the apprentices again!” Brightpaw encouraged, though she shuffled her paws with uncertainty.

“I don’t want to play with anyone! Especially not that mouse-dung Thistlepaw!”

“I know, but he was with Sparrowpaw when I went to ask him…”

“Well, why didn’t you get someone other than Sparrowpaw then? Do you want me to get in even more trouble?” Sunpaw snarled, her fur bristling.

Brightpaw opened her mouth to answer, but Thistlepaw wove in between them, meowing coolly, “Let’s go.” Sunpaw nearly spat at his calm behavior, but managed to simply hurry ahead.

Soon Sunpaw decided to ignore them, and started along again as if they weren’t there. She could hear Brightpaw talking to them, but couldn’t make out any words. Sunpaw closed her eyes, trying to forget them completely. She could feel the strength of the sun absorbed in her coat and let out a little purr.

BurnClan territory was the sunniest of all, with tall green grass that was wonderful to lie in and share tongues. The camp was near the few trees a couple miles from Twolegplace, where the forest next to the Thunderpath grew sparse.

The blades of grass bent under Sunpaw’s belly and sprung up around her, concealing her pelt from the other apprentices as she got further ahead. She opened her mouth and allowed the scents to reach her scent glands; the comforting smells of grass as well as a little preyscent welcomed her.

Her ears flicked forward and her stomach growled a little as the clear scent of mouse reached her. She dropped into a crouch, flicking her tail as quietly as possible to balance on her back leg. Trying furiously to ignore the way she swayed side to side unsteadily, Sunpaw crept forward.

She could see the mouse now, a good fat one, eating a seed underneath a halfway-concealed den. It paused to look around, and then vigorously began washing it’s whiskers. Mouth watering, Sunpaw prepared to pounce.

Just when the timing was perfect, a small breeze blew, knocking Sunpaw slightly off balance. She swished her tail furiously, struggling to regain balance. Hopping around awkwardly on her back leg, she tried to find the mouse again but it had gone. She was too loud.

Spitting rage, Sunpaw took a hard swipe at the ground and then swung her head around to bite her shoulder. Her sharp teeth quickly broke the surface, and she squeezed harder until some of the anger and disappointment seceded.

She heard the other apprentices approaching and hurried forward. Any other cat would have easily caught the mouse; the breeze would have been an advantage because it carried her scent away. Any cat with four legs.

Swallowing a mew of sadness mixed with fury, Sunpaw rushed forward. She hadn’t the faintest idea where she was going, but she wanted to be alone. Every lopsided step she took seemed to burn her pelt with pain. Why had she been born this way?!

It didn’t take long for the young apprentice to get lost. She had only been allowed to explore the territory once or twice, and the grass in the particular area she had wandered to had grown taller than her.

Poking her nose through the strands of grass, she opened her mouth and let the scents flow over her scent glands. She was hoping for any familiar scent, a border mark, or somewhere some cat had been hunting recently.

Her heart began beating faster, overcome with too many emotions, as she started forward blindly. No familiar scents anywhere, every step the ground felt cold and relentless. In BurnClan territory, the grounds were sunny and overflowing with prey. Here it was unfamiliar, ragged sticks jabbing her side, the dirt oddly moist.

“Ow!” she exclaimed as a sharp pain entered her paw. Sitting down awkwardly, she began to ease the thorn out as gently as possible. But her teeth couldn’t quite hold the small intruder, and she could feel it digging deeper and deeper into her paw.

She stood up, hissing at nothing in particular. Wincing with every pawstep, she kept moving forward. Eventually she would reach a border and then she could find her way back. But the more she moved, the more on edge she felt. Every hair on her pelt was raised defensively; she jumped at the slightest sounds.

Finally she had to stop. The muscles in her one hind leg were incredibly sore and the thorn was making her limp even more. Her breathing was labored as she swept her tongue over herself, smoothing irritated scratches from sticks and bushes, trying to comfort her aching muscles. Her shoulder prickled uncomfortably from when she had bitten herself earlier.

For once she wished she were back with the Elders. Back in BurnClan with the sun beating down on her, the familiar smells surrounding her.

I don’t need them! Sunpaw decided angrily, her throat choked, All I’m good for is a laugh, no one believes that I will amount to anything.

The pain from her wounds was the only thing stopping her from venting her fury physically. They’re better off without me. And it was true. Sunpaw couldn’t lie to herself about missing her Clan, nor about needing them, but she knew she was more of a hindrance than a help. That’s why she was in the Elders den, with the useless cats.

Sunpaw looked up miserably towards the sky. The clouds were darkening threateningly, and the day was fading to night. She hardly remembered how much time she had spent after missing the mouse, but it must have been more than she imagined.

“It isn’t fair!” she yowled, every inch of pain inside and outside expressed in one defiant call. It was her against the world, against herself, against her Clan.

“That’s life,” came a rasping, slithery voice.

Sunpaw sprang to her paws, hissing furiously, “Who’s there?”

“Defensive, aren’t we?” the voice mewed, a hint of amusement apparent.

“Come out,” Sunpaw ordered, she didn’t like the cold feeling she was getting whenever the voice spoke.

“Very well,” it didn’t sound quite as cold as a mangy, flea-ridden, scarred, black-and-white tom appeared from behind a nearby tree. Sunpaw sized him up quickly; he was much bigger than her, but scrawny and obviously bad off. His scars were impressive though, and in her weakened state, she didn’t anticipate a victory.

“Who’re you?” she demanded, allowing annoyance, fury, and disgust to taint her tone.

“Friendly, as always,” the tom noted, “I’m Scram. At least that’s what the Twolegs call me.”

“You’re a kittypet then?” Sunpaw snarled, wondering why he looked so badly fed. Kittypets were supposed to be fat and soft.

“Do I look like a kittypet?” Scram sneered, voicing her thoughts, “I’m more of what you Clan cats would call a Loner.”

“How did you know I was a Clan cat?” Sunpaw asked, voice faltering slightly. She began backing away slowly as the tom approached.

“Oh, you can always tell with Clan cats. Well-fed but hard-muscled, and you have a certain ‘dialect’,” Scram stated, as if it were obvious.

“Oh,” Sunpaw answered, growing more and more nervous. Scram seemed to be pressing slowly towards her, pushing her farther and farther away from where she had been resting.

“Yes. You still haven’t told me your name,” Scram meowed, sitting briefly to scratch his ear.

“No. I haven’t,” Sunpaw growled, her paws starting to itch for a fight.

“Well,” Scram surmised slowly, looking her straight in the eyes, “I suppose you’re not obliged to. So what are you doing here, Clan cat?”

“None of your business,” she snapped quickly, glancing around for some sort of escape. The only problem was she hadn’t the slightest idea where she was.

Scram paused, considering her answer, and then let out a little mrrow, “I suppose you’re right. But I can guess. You’re lost.”

Sunpaw opened her mouth to argue, but decided better of it and kept her mouth shut.

“Yes I thought so,” Scram murmured, looking sideways at her, “You’re near Twolegplace if that’s what you’re wondering, going the opposite way of your Clan.”

Surprised, Sunpaw looked around, “Oh-uh… thanks?”

“Mhm,” Scram said mildly, “But I wouldn’t head back if I were you. You crossed what you Clan cats would call Rogue territory. Traveling through that in the middle of the night is a bad idea.”

“Why’re you helping me?” Sunpaw hissed suspiciously. She sat down, noticing that they were quite a ways from where they had started. Instead of the flat, prickly, thorn-covered patch of wasteland, they were in a wet, grassy field with strange Twoleg trees coming out of the ground.

Scram shrugged his shoulders passively, “I could use the company, and you’ve got spirit. Most Clan cats just brush us aside like we’re dirt.”

“Who’s us?” Sunpaw asked, genuinely confused. Scram was pressing in on her again, but this time she sat still, not wanting to be any closer to Twolegplace than she already was.

Suddenly, Scram stiffened. His ears pricked forward, eyes alert, muscled tense. He slowly opened his mouth to let the air come into his scent glands. Sunpaw opened hers too, but smelled only the strange scent of her surroundings.

“I have to leave now,” Scram meowed, almost sadly, staring straight over Sunpaw’s head.

“Wha-Wait! What’s going on?” Sunpaw protested, but Scram was gone, “Where am I?!” Hissing, she cuffed the dirt. She was back in the same position, every part of her screaming with pain, only slightly less lost, and more confused than ever. She even missed Scram’s company, she had started to warm up to him. He may have been mangy and disgusting, but he had helped her.

Sighing, she surveyed her surroundings again. She was next to the Twoleg tree things, and she studied them more closely. They ran in a long line, some going straight up like growing trees, some running sideways or suspended in the air. “Weird,” she muttered, and tentatively reached out a paw.

The thing didn’t bite her, so she decided it was like a tree. Safe to climb. With that, she leaped up onto one of the sideways trees and then scrambled up to the top. Tail lashing furiously for balance, she placed her hind leg firmly behind her. Slightly pleased with her success, she looked out at the Twoleg territory.

Across the field from her was a single Twoleg nest, and a flat expanse of dirt where monsters were supposedly sleeping. She narrowed her eyes, feeling nervous.

She had to dig her claws into the tree when shouts of Twolegs reached her ears. She looked around, spotted them returning from the Twoleg footpath, and tried to shrink into the tree. If she jumped down, they would see her. So she remained still.

One of the Twoleg kits began yelping excitedly, pointing at Sunpaw. She hissed, though they were too far away to hear her. She unhitched her claws and was about to climb down when a rock flew past her, maybe a whisker away. Shaking, Sunpaw looked over at the Twoleg kits again, they were throwing things at her.

She positioned her legs to jump off, but had to regain balance for a moment when her back leg faltered. The moment was too long, and a rock struck her in the side. Yowling, she struggled to regain her balance, but her back leg slipped. The fall ripped her claws from the post violently and she hit the fence as she tumbled downward.

Barely conscious, she felt the bruises, the reopened wounds, the numerous scratches, and wished she would just die. Gasping for air, she dragged herself toward a small, concealed spot beneath a bush. Shaking with exhaustion, she collapsed.