flyaway
Administrator
[M:-10]
Posts: 1,012
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Post by flyaway on Mar 21, 2013 10:33:24 GMT -5
list this is who from each clan is attending. now here are the rules for this gathering. you may not post until the leader of the clan has posted. if you have multiple characters attending, you are only required to post with ONE. though we would love as many characters there as possible.
Thunderclan
Riverclan
Shadowclan
Windclan
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flyaway
Administrator
[M:-10]
Posts: 1,012
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Post by flyaway on Mar 21, 2013 11:12:17 GMT -5
[style=text-align:justify; margin-top:250px; width: 405px; height:245px; overflow:auto; margin-left:3px; margin-right:170px;][style=margin-top:-1px; padding-left:1px;] Darkness was beginning to fall. Hours had passed, hours of much needed sleep for Lynxstar. And yet, since waking, he hadn’t moved a muscle. He sat, his shoulders slightly hunched in the darkness. The lichen curtain obscured his view of the clan that milled obliviously beyond the safety of his den. For them, they simply awaited in anticipation a moment they knew would come. It was whispered on breaths – who would attend? Lynxstar swallowed, hanging his head. His shoulders drew up around him, as if his own body could protect him from his ebbing dread. Almost as if to mock him, he could swear Froststar’s scent wrapped around him. He glanced around. The den, the camp, without her, it seemed abandoned now. And each Gathering, Lyxnstar was forcing to admit it, to realize the truth of the matter. Froststar was gone. His eyes fluttered closed, flashing images and fragments of sounds battered at his memory. There was Froststar, sitting with a hard stare – illuminated in shafts of moonlight. She was glorious, strong, more beautiful than Lynxstar’s memory gave her credit for. He remembered that last meeting, the silence between them. It had gone on for unending moments. It had seemed almost irreverent to break the silence, as if he would shatter something precious and fragile. So he stood, his tail brushing his legs. And then, in an instant, it had been broken. It died on Froststar’s quiet lips. The silence ebbed away gently, as if it had truly never been meant to be there. Lynxstar remembered the way Froststar turned, the crack in her voice. It broke, a creaking weak sound. On any other, it would have sounded pathetic, frail. But on Froststar, it made Lynxstar yearn to blink away a mist that had suddenly come over his eyes. But that moment, that breaking of something precious, had been moons ago. Yet on these nights, as he prepared to lead his clan to the Gathering, it seemed almost imminent.
Lynxstar opened his eyes, a sort of resignation hanging in the back of his gaze. He would see Froststar, as he had seen her every moon since that day. And his heart would break, it would shatter. He would be left to silently pick up the pieces. And she would stand there, at his side but miles away. She was so regal, so precious. And yet he couldn’t touch her, couldn’t allow his fur to brush hers. He couldn’t wrap himself in her scent, so that nothing else existed. She was untouchable. And the worst thing was, she was stronger. She wouldn’t look to him, wouldn’t betray her longing. Or perhaps, unlike him, her longing had faded. Perhaps that quiet love between them had melted away. She had always been the stronger one, hardened, determined. Maybe it was only him who clung to dreams of her beauty, of a life they could have had together. And perhaps it was time for him to move on, to steel himself, to admit it was all over – well and truly over.
Lynxstar stood, pushing through the curtain that shielded his den from view. The entire clan was in the camp, many waiting in anticipation for the call they knew would come. Lynxstar felt a slight smile tug at his lips. Their anticipation, their excitement, well it made him happy – even if this brief happiness couldn’t compare to his sorrow. He bunched his muscles, leaping and scaling the high rock. The wind was strong tonight. It battered his fur, blowing it in all directions. There was something undeniably wild about him. He kept his head high, calling out in a strong voice – “Let all cats old enough to catch their own prey gathering below the high rock for a clan meeting!” He would not mince words, not tonight. They all knew what he had to say, what was coming. And he would not keep them waiting. His ears flicked back and a light filtered slowly back into his eyes. The clan was already beginning to gather below him. He called out again, “The gathering is upon us.” He looked out at the gathered clan, “Littleshade, Jaywing, Cedarpaw, Wrenpaw and Heatherpaw will be attending.” It was perhaps unusual to bring so many apprentices, and so few warriors. But the decision was his, and he would not fall back on it. He nodded his head once, bunching his muscles again.
Without another word, he descended from above. It was long past time when they should have left camp. He moved towards the entrance, not waiting to be followed. His clan would come, they always did. He led them, regally. Adrenaline coursed through his veins and he quickened his pace. They were Windclan. They were meant to stream across the moors, to move with a speed incapable of others. They neared the borders. The massive oaks that symbolized Four Trees stood high in the darkness. He paused, a moment at the top of the ravine. Below him, the small clearing was empty. The other clans had not yet arrived, but soon they would be assaulted by their scents. Lynxstar took in a breath, a confident smile on his features. And with a bound, he led his clan streaming down into Fourtrees. Even without the other clans, the Gathering had begun.
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deni - ♥
New Member
run when the rhythm's right.
Posts: 25
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Post by deni - ♥ on Mar 21, 2013 14:10:34 GMT -5
[style=text-align:justify; margin-top:350px; width: 430px; height: 180px; overflow:auto; margin-left:8px;][style=margin-top:-10px; padding-left:1px;] birdsong sounded over head as the leader made his way confidently through thunderclan's territory. the sun was hanging low in the sky, it would soon be time for the gathering. nightstar... didn't particularly enjoy gatherings. he used to like them, mainly for the she-cats, but it had been a long time since he had flirted around at a gathering. he remembered his days as a warrior fondly, when the worst thing that could happen to him for a bit of innocent flirting was a dirty look. now, it would scandalize all of thunderclan. he grunted a bit at the thought. he had been leader for a little over five moons now, and he wasn't sure he would ever get used to it. he had been so used to being the deputy, even if that brought on some extra responsibility, it was nothing compared to the responsibility he had now. the whole clan relied on him to make decisions, but as much as he wanted to pretend like he didn't like.. he did. he acted modest, oh yes, but only because he had to. in reality, he loved giving orders and seeing them readily obeyed. he loved having the respect of his clanmates, and he loved having power over them. as terrible as it was, he loved it. he didn't necessarily like the strings attached, but anything worthwhile had a few snags after all.
he pushed his way into camp, carrying his head and tail high. nightstar was a large, intimidating cat.. well, until you got to know him. for all of his size and strength, nightstar was actually a nice guy unless you got on his bad side. but that was a hard thing to do, all in all. he allowed his yellow gaze to travel around the camp. it was bustling. with the sun recently gone down, most of the patrols were back. it had been a warm spring day, so the elders were outside sharing tongues. apprentices were lazing about, some of the boasting. warriors were clustered, some eating, some gossiping. his gaze landed on the nursery, where he knew that cloudeyes was suckling her newly born kits. an odd sensation rose up inside him, his gut clenching uncomfortably. why would thinking about cloudeyes cause him to feel that? of all of the she-cats, he had never wanted anything to do with her... clanmate or not, she was a bit odd. it didn't mean that he wouldn't fight to protect her like any thunderclan cat, he would just rather not... be involved with her.
he rolled his shoulders a bit, pushing the feeling to the back of his head as he leaped gracefully up on highrock. he cleared his throat, "let all cats old enough to catch their own prey gather under highrock for a clan meeting!" his deep voice rang around the camp, and he watched as cats dropped what they were doing to gather. he grinned a bit, satisfied in the fact that they were all still listening to him. "tonight, as you well know, is the night of the gathering. i have chosen: owlcall, flameheart, sedgewhisker, leopardpaw, and coalpaw to attend." he jumped off the rock immediately after making his announcement, sweeping his long bushy tail along behind him, he made his way back across camp, through the gorse-tunnel and into the territory. by this point, the stars were twinkling in the sky and the full moon hung overhead, lighting up the area around them almost as effectively as the sun. he broke into a bit of a trot, listening with pleasure as the cats behind him did the same thing. he would not allow thunderclan to be the last to arrive at the gathering. obviously, someone had to be last... but he would join starclan if that was him.
the traveled through the trees and soon enough reached fourtrees. he grinned in satisfaction when he realized that the only clan to beat them there was windclan. they would just have to leave a bit earlier next time, was all. he slowed their pace as they entered the clearing, padding confidently toward great rock. he nodded politely toward lynxstar as he leaped up on to the rock, sitting himself down gracefully. though he was large enough on his own, he stretched out to his fullest height, and looked down on the cats in the clearing. he barely disguised the pleasure he got from it.
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729 words - gathering - notes.
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( kat ?! )
Full Member
[M:140]
Pickled radish in curry is not dinner, it's disgusting. [C01:7c0f0f]
Posts: 154
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Post by ( kat ?! ) on Mar 21, 2013 19:14:28 GMT -5
[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,500,true] | [atrb=background,http://i644.photobucket.com/albums/uu167/Rippedshadow/Templates/heathermid.png][scrolly:h(290),w(240),sy]
Heatherpaw lay sleep in her den. The snow outside slowly melted away as she slept soundly. Birds started to return to their right homes and nests as spring came nearer and nearer. Heatherpaw woke, and looked outside. The sun was just barely rising, and she had just woken from the night. Her maw parted and streched wide as a yawn escaped her lips. As they came back together, Heatherpaw opn her bright orange eyes, and looked around the den, as found she was the first one awake. She shrugged, this was normal for her. She was normally the first one awake in the clan. Heatherpaw sat up, and slowly loosened out all her muscles. What was Meadowlark going to teach her today? She was paranoid and timid, so maybe not much, but Heatherpaw was going to peel her out of her shell, and make her less paranoid and timid with the clan.
Her long, grey and white legs strode out of the den. Her eyes snapping shut and Heatherpaw clumisly falling back into the den. Today wasn't going to end well. She looked to the sky to see the faint outline of the moon still in the sky, and saw the shape. The full moon! The gathering was tonight! Energy bounced around her as she bounced throughout the camp. Maybe Lynxstar was going to take her with him to the Gathering? Oh she hoped so!
Heatherpaw went over to the fresh kill pile, and picked out something fresh from the dawn patrol, to bring to the elders. she saw a nice looking rabbit, and clamped it between her jaws, it's legs slowly trailing behind her. Heatherpaw dropped the Rabbit in front of Goosenose, and dipped her head in respect, and walked out.
As the day grew oon, so did her tedious activites. Chores, training, more chores, more training, and a patrol. Nothing exciting. By the end of the day, she was tired from all her work, and didn't want to go to the Gathering. But she must, because the Gathering was important to her. The moon slowly came out from it's hiding, and she sat below the high rock, anixously waiting for Lynxstar to come out and annouce who was going. Minutes she sat, turned to hours, and she was starting to not want to go. But then Lynxstar came out from his den, and called the meeting.
“Let all cats old enough to catch their own prey gathering below the high rock for a clan meeting!”
Heatherpaw almost screamed. This was it, he was annoucing who was going! Heatherpaw sat and listened, and as normal, the deputy, med cat, med cat apprenice blah blah. But then he did it. He annouced the apprentices.
"...Wrenpaw, and Heatherpaw will be attending."
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[/i] She was chosen? She was actually picked? A massive grin lit up on her face, and she dashed with Lynxstar out of the camp, close on his heels, as they entered the Gathering arena, she follwed everyone down over the ravine, and searched for Lynxstar, she found him, and hopped over to him, in an almost squealish tone, but also calm, she thanked him. "Thank you so much, Lynxstar! I promise I'll train even harder next moon to go again!" She grinned, then bounded off to find her friends. 548 words written for the gathering! while listening to n/a Notes? heather is very very excited. ^^ [/size][/color][/justify][/scrolly][/div][/td][/tr][tr][td] [/td][/tr][/table][/center]
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Toxyk-Melodi
Junior Member
[M:50]
A LiTTLE iNSANE iS A GOOD THiNG...RiGHT?[C01:1BE028]
Posts: 91
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Post by Toxyk-Melodi on Mar 21, 2013 19:50:59 GMT -5
[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,0,true][atrb=width,500,true] | [atrb=background,http://i644.photobucket.com/albums/uu167/Rippedshadow/Templates/wildmid.png] The day seemed to drone on and on, and Wildfang was restless with irritation. His paws itched to run about the forest and forget everything for a while. It was unusual for the black and white tom, but it happened on occasion. Of course, when he realized that this night would bring the gathering his mood significantly perked up. Lots of pretty kitties for my eyes to see. he thought, a small grin spreading across his maw. Oh yes. Tonight was going to be an excellent night indeed. Shuffling about camp he made sure all the patrols were in check before lying down at the side of the camp.
Already everyone was gathered around, their voices blending together in a harmonious vibe. Gathering's were always interesting, as it was the one time everyone in camp was actually happy with each other. Not that there were any bad relationships in the clan. Or at least not that Wildfang had noticed. But even the apprentices seemed eager to please their mentors during the day in hopes that they would see the clans all gathered in a time of peace. "Too bad it never lasts." he muttered to himself.
But that was the warriors way of life. There were times of trial and error. Good and bad. It all came with the territory. Suddenly the wight of the world seemed to fall onto his shoulders as he realized that he might one day lead ThunderClan. Shuddering he coughed a little. Not for a while, Nightstar is young and strong. Wildfang thought. Speaking of Nightstar he padded toward's the highrock letting out a yow, his dominating appearance enough to silence the clan. Sly fox. he thought with a grin.
"Only two apprentices. How droll." he meowed. Still, it wasn't his call, so he said nothing further. Standing and giving a stretch he followed after Nightstar's, making sure to stay behind. On his first gathering as an apprentice he had made the mistake of running on ahead, which cost him checking the elders for ticks the next moon. As deputy he didn't want to make the same mistake twice. Behind him he heard the cats chattering and smiled. It was good to see the clan happy like this.
Once they arrived the scent of WindClan hit his nose and Wildfang's lip curled immediately. There was no sign of his mother, and for that he was grateful. Come to think of it, he hadn't seen her in moons. Perhaps the old wretch finally hit the daisies. he thought. Not that he cared. As far as he was concerned, the dark forest could have her. Nodding to his leader as well as Lynxstar he sat down where all the deputies sat, keeping his ears and nose pricked.
470 words written for everyone while listening to youth by daughter Notes? Blah
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Post by pit on Mar 21, 2013 21:03:14 GMT -5
[style=text-align:justify; margin-top:210px; width: 300px; height:245px; overflow:auto; margin-left:3px; margin-right:170px;][style=margin-top:-1px; padding-left:1px;] The petite gray she-cat dozed lazily in the sheltered curve of her den. The beat of her own heart was her only companion at the time, and the steady rhythm had made her eyes droop and limbs heavy. She hadn't gotten much sleep last night but she was becoming used to the unwelcome routine. Thoughts ran through her head and escaped her grasp when she tried to quiet them. Lists of what she needed and who needed what and when they needed it. Tonight was silent, though. It was as if she had hit a switch and her thoughts had left her alone. Jaywing liked it.
Perhaps it was the full moon that did it. The Clans always seemed to exert such energetic vibes around this time. It wasn't surprising to her at all, because Gatherings were something to celebrate and it was a change to the normal schedule. She particularly got a kick out of the apprentices when their gleaming, wide eyes caught sight of the Four Trees for the first time. She could almost feel the waves of excitement and nervousness pulse off of the little cats. It always made her smile. The medicine cat could remember her first Gathering, sticking close to Brackenheart's side. He always knew what to say in those situations and soothed her giddiness. She only hopes she can do the same with Cedarpaw this full moon. Jaywing wasn't sure she had such skills.
She let herself close her blue eyes for a bit while her dark tail tip flicked in rhythm with her heart. Honestly, she wasn't sure how this Gathering would go. She hasn't contacted their ancestors for what felt like seasons. Jaywing had promised Lynxstar that if she received any signs, he would be the first to know. But she had nothing to tell him. She felt worry creep its way from her toes up her legs. A shiver ran down her spine and a quiet sigh escaped her jaws. Her ears flicked back against her skull as the medicine cat forced herself to open her droopy gaze. With a quick glance to the sky, Jaywing knew their leader would be making his appearance any time.
As if she had called his name, the fluffy tom exited his den and strode over to the high rock. She knew what was coming, and she really should get up. Huffing, Jaywing attempted to move her leaden limbs. The gray she-cat stumbled out of her den and into the center of the camp, where anticipation spread through the cats like wildfire. Then Lynxstar's baritone voice rumbled out over the clearing.
“Let all cats old enough to catch their own prey gathering below the high rock for a clan meeting!”
She settled on her rump and curled her tail tightly around her paws, awaiting further instructions. She knew Cedarpaw would be emerging any second, so she sat a little away from the rest of the group to save a spot for him. Blinking, she focused back up to the WindClan leader. He was listing the members who would accompany him to the Four Trees.
“Littleshade, Jaywing, Cedarpaw, Wrenpaw and Heatherpaw will be attending.”
With that, Lynxstar hopped down and padded out of the camp. She rose to her still-heavy paws and followed in line behind Heatherpaw, who seemed as though she were a few seconds away from squealing gleefully. Jaywing let her eyes close and a smile crossed her lips before turning her head to make sure her own apprentice was following. This would be his first Gathering and she wanted to make it was enjoyable as possible.
The trip to the Four Trees was probably the thing she liked most about these full moon meetings. There was a sense of serenity mixed in with the group as they trotted silently and gracefully in the way only WindClan members could. She had always felt that her Clan was the best at achieving a comforting silence, but perhaps she was biased. Her dark paws continued on the path the others followed as she tailed the apprentices. Finally, WindClan had arrived. It seemed as though they were the first ones here. Jaywing slowed her pace as she entered the sacred grounds. Since no other medicine cats had arrived yet, she started the circle. She couldn't seem to get rid of the tenseness of her shoulders that had sparked when she padded in. She was being paranoid. Gathering were a time to enjoy, and Jaywing would do her best to fulfill that.
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flyaway
Administrator
[M:-10]
Posts: 1,012
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Post by flyaway on Mar 21, 2013 21:32:05 GMT -5
[style=text-align:justify; margin-top:-8px; width: 250px; height: 415px; overflow:auto; float:right; margin-right:1px;][style=margin-top:-15px; padding-left:5px;] Sedgewhisker, in truth, hadn’t even bothered to stay awake. As soon as the moon had risen, night darkness descending on Thunderclan, he had retired to his nest. The old tom had been to his share of Gatherings – more than he could count anymore. He had long since stopped attending. Perhaps out of kindness, most leaders turned a blind eye – Nightstar especially. He allowed the old warrior to stay back at camp, get his rest, with the proud excuse of being left as a senior warrior to defend. So that was what Sedgewhisker did. He stayed back, provided some sort of moral support. But mostly he just napped. At that very moment he was curled tightly in his nest, his tail wound around his nose. His nest was soft, warm. He dreamed of nothing. But his old bones, after a day spent in futility attempting to train his stubborn apprentice Coalpaw, ached and sighed with the relief sleep brought. Sedgewhisker was content not to move, perhaps never to move again. Yet he knew he would rise in the morning, greet the sunlight. Whereas Owltalon would struggle to move, to participate in clan life, Sedgewhisker would cling to every moment of life he had left.
A cold nose pressed into his side, a voice hissed in his ear. “Sedgewhisker! Wake up, you’ve been chosen to attend the Gathering.” A younger warrior stood over him, plainly disapproving. Sedgewhisker frowned for a moment in disbelief. But none would dare play such a prank on him. He hauled himself to his feet, shaking bits of moss from his nest out of his coat. He stalked out of the den. Nightstar was already moving towards the camp entrance. A number of other cats were in tow. Sedgewhisker found himself frowning, grumbling under his breath. His muscles screamed in protest, but it seemed he had no choice but to lose precious hours of the sleep he so coveted. He stalked across the camp. He was already behind, but he would not do himself the indignity of bounding to catch up. He was old, but he was fierce. And he would do things in his own time, thank you very much. His ears flitted back against his head, his gaze dangerous. Soon enough he managed to catch up with those chosen from his clan. There was Wildfang of course, a tom Sedgewhisker personally found to be loathsome and irritating. Flameheart, slightly less loathsome. And of course his own precious apprentice. His night had just officially soured.
As they reached Fourtrees, Sedgewhisker could hear the murmuring. A scent floated to him and he parted his jaws slightly. Windclan. All other scents were stale. He looked to Nightstar with ill-concealed amusement. Would their leader be irritated that their attempt to arrive first had been thwarted? Nightstar didn’t give him the chance to ponder long. The massive black tom leapt down into the ravine, the rest of Thunderclan eager to follow. Sedgewhisker took his time. After all, he had no desire to socialize. He made a specific point of finding himself a little spot off to the side. Nightstar had already mounted the rock, Lynxstar at his side. Sedgewhisker curled back up once more. He’d sworn he would sleep, whether in his nest or not didn’t much matter to him.
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Post by midnightive on Mar 21, 2013 22:29:06 GMT -5
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Kin
Administrator
the fair queen[M:30]
resident code monkey
Posts: 256
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Post by Kin on Mar 21, 2013 23:50:02 GMT -5
[style=float:right; border-top-right-radius:50px; border-bottom-left-radius:50px; background-image: url(http://i907.photobucket.com/albums/ac277/Myrrdyn/dda89ec0-e73e-4319-98c0-ddc7d89bd5f9_zps8fb86315.jpg); width: 100px; height: 100px; border-top:2px solid #9fbfcf; border-bottom:2px solid #9fbfcf; ] froststar [style=margin-top:-17px;] The moon hung high and pregnant in the sky, a sign of the evening's events. Throughout the day, Froststar had made her way through the Clan, catching up with mentors and apprentices, and speaking to the elders. She gathered what few scraps of news hadn't reached her ears previously and began stitching them together into a woven tapestry displaying ShadowClan's strength and virility as they proudly stepped into the last vestiges of leafbare before newleaf arrived.
Not that there was much that escaped Froststar's ears, mangled as they were. She made a point of being available to her warriors at all times, answering their calls in the middle of the night, the crack of dawn, whenever they needed her. Naturally, the leader attempted to instill the same attitude in her deputy, who had seemed quite eager to serve his Clan well. Pinestep was a natural with everyday organization, at least, providing the scarred white she-cat with a much-needed break from micromanagement.
It left her with more time for her own apprentice Cedarpaw, whom she rather guiltily acknowledged was neglected for the Clan at times. Frostheart had debated finding the she-cat another mentor, but declined to do so. She wanted as many options as possible open for when her own kits became apprentices, after all. That may have been selfish reasoning, but given how Ternkit was developing, Froststar would objectively need to carefully select the best cat for handling him. The temptation to name herself his mentor was strong, but she knew that she wouldn't be able to crack down on him when he needed her to in order to grow. Her maternal instinct would prevent her hurting his feelings and drive her to preserve their relationship.
Until such a time as she faced the actual decision, though, Froststar pushed it to the back of her mind. Eventually, she would have to announce her kits' existence to the other Clans. They had surely noticed the swell of her belly in the Gathering before she gave birth. Waiting until the kits were three moons old gave her the advantage of postponing any sort of negative influence or gossip. Rising from her position curled in her nest, Froststar prowled out of her den and climbed to stand atop the high twist of roots that formed the walls and roof of her den. Her blue eyes raked over the Clan, and her voice boomed through the camp.
"Let all cats old enough to catch their own prey gather beneath the Highroot for a Clan meeting!"
As she waited for the Clan to answer her summons, Froststar went over the list of chosen attendees for the Gathering. Pinestep's position obligated the tom to attend, and it wouldn't do to show up without her deputy. He was a strong, confident tom, and she trusted him to do nothing to taint the reputation of their Clan. Acornpatch was busy tending to Brindlestorm, who was ill with some sort of lung infection. The old tortoiseshell showed no signs of dying, however, clinging to life as stubbornly as ever. Mudface had been selected as well, though Froststar had been reluctant to include the tom. His grating sense of superiority was something she tried to avoid indulging, but she could not afford to single any warrior out as unworthy, especially in front of the other Clans.
She had to appear as strong and untouchable as she felt standing proud before her Clanmates. The leader was precisely what she was, and her own heart and longings were meaningless beside the duty laid upon her. Froststar was no longer Frostheart, no longer allowed to dream and reminisce, no longer allowed to recall the musky scent of the one tom she held dearest. Like her scars made her appear to those who had never before seen her, Froststar was a leader tempered by experience in battle and in politics, forged of the pawsteps she'd walked. When she stepped into the clearing at Fourtrees, she draped the mantle of her moons upon her shoulders, molding her demeanor into something regal and refined, miles above the average warrior, a league apart from her fellow leaders.
Rather pointedly, Froststar had continued to deny Oakpaw a chance at attending a Gathering. The egotistical little she-cat would remain on near-constant punishment and be denied the experiences of her fellow apprentices until she changed her ways. Or, at least, stopped abusing Mallowpaw and started showing respect for cats older than herself. Again rather pointedly, Froststar had made a point to assign Oakpaw to tend to the elders and aid Acornpatch in the care of his cantankerous patient while Mallowpaw attended the Gathering. Aspenpaw would be attending his first Gathering. She had high hopes for the tom's behavior, as he seemed to get on well with his peers and mentor.
Finally, she had chosen Cedarstorm, for the tom presented the face that the other Clans undoubtedly whispered that ShadowClan wore. Proud and holding themselves as such, stubborn and fierce and cunning. Once her chosen group had arrived and the last stragglers were padding in, Froststar cleared her throat and spoke. "Tonight, as you know, is the Gathering. All those cats who have been assigned to moonhigh patrols will be expected to report to me after we return from the Gathering. Sentries will assume their posts at the assigned time, and I expect to see you alert and watchful." Eyes flicking through the cats assigned each duty as she spoke of it, Froststar gave a small, firm nod. "I have faith that you will perform well in our absence."
Flicking her tail and canting her good ear forward, Froststar raised her head slightly, eyes flicking between the cats she'd chosen. "Pinestep, Cedarstorm, Mudface, Mallowpaw, and Aspenpaw will attend the Gathering." She jerked her chin to the side, indicating for the named cats to move to the camp entrance. "Dismissed." She leapt down from her perch without waiting for the cats to disperse as ordered, and padded out of the camp entrance. From the moon's progress across the sky, she could guess that ShadowClan would not be the first to arrive, but nor would they be the last.
If she was lucky, Froststar would arrive before Lynxstar and have a moment atop the boulder to smooth any wrinkles in the mantle she donned and tuck the corners smoothly into place. But no, she realized before she even crested the edge of the clearing, the breeze ruffling her fur, she would not be so lucky. WindClan had already arrived, as had ThunderClan. She held her head high and stalked regally into the clearing, donning her mantle as she went.
By the time Froststar joined the two male leaders atop the boulder, she was a different creature, as distant and lovely as her scarred body could be. Oh, she'd been beautiful once upon a time, a true vision in white, just like her sister. Now she was little more than a ruined canvas, heavily scarred and good for no more than leadership and raising her kits to be great warriors. Gazing at the warriors and apprentices milling around the clearing, she knew that, in the end, what mattered was what was best for her Clan. If ShadowClan needed Froststar's death or banishment to prosper, then she would gladly lay her fate at their paws.
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Rendezvous
Administrator
[M:355]
SS's lovely little prince.
Posts: 263
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Post by Rendezvous on Mar 22, 2013 11:42:11 GMT -5
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Owlcall had just slipped back into camp, mice tails clamped firmly between her jaws, when she heard Nightstar's annoucement on who would be attending the night's gathering. Her ears pricked as she heard her name being called, she was going to attend the gathering! Padding over to the fresh-kill pile she deposited the lifeless prey and headed over to the highrock, listening to the other cats that would be attending. Of course, the she-cat had kind of hoped that she would have gotten a few winks of sleep in, but at least losing sleep was over something important.
Clans always tried to be the first to get to Fourtrees so there was no surprise that their leader wanted to hurry up and reach Fourtrees. Although Owlcall didn't really think they were going to be the first ones there this moon. Flicking her tail she ducked in behind Leopardpaw towards the end of the group. Even as an apprentice, Owlcall had always thought it was pretty cool to be able to socialize with cats of other clans, providing that they were friendly.
Jumping clean over a log, the cat followed the group until Fourtrees was within sight. "Beautiful." She purred, she had always been in awe of the towering trees that gave the sacred places its name. She settled close to the battered tree stump and nodded to Leopardpaw. "Hope you don't mind me sitting next to you." She meowed gently, looking up just in time to see their leader seat himself next to the Windclan leader, Lynxstar.
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Rendezvous
Administrator
[M:355]
SS's lovely little prince.
Posts: 263
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Post by Rendezvous on Mar 22, 2013 11:57:46 GMT -5
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It came as no surprise that the Shadowclan leader would chose her deputy to attend the gathering. After all, it would have been strange for her not to choose her own deputy. The tom had been lying in his nest watching the commotion outside of the warrior's den. Seeing a flash of white he already knew that Froststar was heading to the Highroot, about to announce a clan meeting. Getting to his paws, Pinestep headed out of the den and settled himself in front of the group that had assembled in front of the tangled mass of roots.
His ears pricked as the leader announced that Cedarstorm, his brother, would also be attending the gathering, followed by Mudface, Mallowpaw and Aspenpaw. The clan's medicine cat wasn't able to attend the gathering due to having to look after Brindlestorm, the ancient she-cat showed no signs of dying any time soon so there was no need to even think about worrying about her. "Let's get to it then." The tom meowed as he headed to the camp entrance, stopping to wait for Froststar to take the lead.
It was already moonhigh, meaning that Shadowclan would either be the last, or second to last clan to arrive, unless the other clans were having difficulties making it to Fourtrees, which Pinestep doubted. He kept an even pace behind their ivory-pelted leader before dropping back to make sure there were no cats lagging behind. The broad shouldered tom kept his place at the back of the group until they finally crossed into the neutral grounds of Fourtrees.
Of course, this was the toms' first time being to the gathering under his new title as deputy. He was one of few words so as he recognized the scents of both Thunderclan and Windclan, he may have offered a nod or two, but no words of greeting passed the tom's lips. He carefully maneuvered between cats, not wanting to brush up against another feline, mainly because he didn't want to be touched.
Pinestep seated himself a couple of lengths away from where the leaders were perched, his eyes looking up at his leader before glancing to the Windclan leader, Lynxstar than to Nightstar and then finally back to his own leader. Let's just get it over with. The tom thought to himself as he awaited the arrival of Riverclan, who seemed to be taking their sweet time reaching Fourtrees this moon.
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bast
Global Moderator
The Darling Princess[M:-165]
Posts: 140
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Post by bast on Mar 23, 2013 13:22:11 GMT -5
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OUTSIDE of her den, Shadestar could hear her clan milling around. The mewls of playing kits, the giggles of gossiping apprentices and rumbles of warriors sharping news filtered into the black she-cat's secluded den. Crouched on her nest of soft river moss and goose down, Shadestar knew what they were waiting for. Ferndapple had called them together, just as she had asked. The moon was breaching the horizon and tonight, the night of the full moon, they were going to journey to Fourtrees for the Gathering. Personally, Shadestar had no love for them, but she knew her clan was excited. Gatherings made the serene leader of RiverClan nervous. She was a young leader still, only in her first few moons of leadership and hated the feeling of eyes being on her at all times. This Gathering in particular, well, Shadestar knew she would have to be on her toes. Things had been odd in the forest lately and honestly, the dark she-cat didn't like the feel of it at all. There was too much stillness in the air, the sort usually felt before a storm. Looking toward the entrance of her den, the golden-eyed leader knew her clan would weather whatever storm was brought their way. She trusted them to be strong enough, and hoped they trusted her to be strong with them and for them.
RISING, Shadestar slipped through the moss curtain that hung over the entrance to her den. Just as she'd heard from within, her clan was gathered, all milling about and waiting to see who would be lucky enough to escort their leader to the Gathering. Ferndapple and Shadestar had talked about it the night before, going over which apprentices had earned the trip and which warriors would be the most suitable for representing the clan. This moon, they'd chosen two apprentices to accompany them, Quillpaw and Lichenpaw which was rather unusual. Typically two warriors and an apprentice would go to the Gathering but Shadestar didn't mind and she trusted Bearclaw to keep an eye on them while the two were away from the watchful eyes of their respective mentors. Ferndapple and Greystream would be more than able to monitor the young duo as well. Moving toward the heart of camp, the clan parted for her to pass. Eager young eyes and steady old gaze settled on the dark she-cat. Nodding in greeting to Ferndapple and Greystream, Shadestar raised her voice to address the clan.
"FRIENDS, this moon Bearclaw, Quillpaw and Lichenpaw shall accompany Ferndapple, Greystream and myself in representing RiverClan. While we are away, Sparrowstep will be in charge. Follow his orders as you would myself or Ferndapple. Guard our home well."
WAITING as Bearclaw, Quillpaw and Lichenpaw gathered around Ferndapple and Greystream, Shadestar's amber gaze swept camp. She knew Sparrowstep would guard her clan well and keep things in order. He was an older warrior with good sense and he never failed to make her smile. If anyone could keep RiverClan safe, it would be him. Still, leaving for a Gathering always gave Shadestar some bit of unease. There was a truce in place while the full moon shone bright but...well, she was no fool. There were plenty of old tales about attacks on the night of the full moon, when a camp was unguarded with the leader and deputy out of the way. Shaking her head to chase the thoughts away, Shadestar flicked her tail for her chosen patrol to follow her and led the way out of camp. The marsh was washed with pale moonlight, the cool silver skimming over Shadestar's deep black pelt and lighting up her amber eyes as she led the way toward Fourtrees. The night air was chilly, though far from the frigid temperature it had been only a few weeks ago. The cold was loosening its hold on the clans, and just in time. RiverClan never fared well when the river froze solid, making fishing impossible. They could hunt birds, mice and other small prey but their primary diet was fish. Having that cut off was inconvenient and dangerous. Moving toward the Gathering place, Shadestar sent a silent prayer of thanks to StarClan. The last thing RiverClan needed was to face the possibility of trouble with empty bellies.
SLIPPING through the undergrowth with the fluid ease of a droplet of water, Shadestar led her patrol into the clearing. Fourtrees loomed over them like silent guardians of the full moon truce. RiverClan was the last to arrive, Lynxstar, Froststar and Nightstar already gathered with their patrols. Shadestar kept her face a calm mask. Her clan knew her as kindly, maternal and gentle but the other leaders didn't need to know these things. She showed them serenity, the serenity her clan so often found comfort in. With a wave of her tail, Shadestar allowed her warriors and apprentices to go and mingle with the other gathered warriors. Her amber gaze danced around the clearing. There weren't many cats present that she knew, apart from the other leaders. She knew of Pinestep, though she'd never met him and Sedgewhisker looked of his normal grumpy self. Strange how even in a gathering of so many cats, Shadestar found so few that she knew well, beyond those in her clan. Leaving her warriors, apprentices, deputy and medicine cat to mingle, Shadestar approached the boulder where the other leaders stood. A cat so young as she and late would normally show some sort of meekness, apologize for being the last to appear. Shadestar did none of these. She approached with her same confident, flowing step and leaped gracefully up to join her peers, coming up beside Froststar.
"GREETINGS, Froststar, Lynxstar, Nightstar." Shadestar dipped her head to each of them in turn.
THERE was a great difference between the four leaders, one that always amazed and amused Shadestar in turns. Lynxstar, Nightstar and Froststar were large and muscular in form, although some of Shadestar suspected Lynxstar and Nightstar's size may be mostly their dense fur. Still, Shadestar was easily the smallest leader, though only on the smaller end of average. RiverClan wasn't known for huge cats anyway, more lean with broad shoulders. They seemed to embody dignity, demand it upon sight. They had sharp, intense gazes that no doubt made their warriors quake in their fur when an unfortunate young one roused anger in a leader. Standing beside Froststar, Shadestar and the white scarred she-cat were like night and day. The moonlight made Froststar glow, a distant, icy creature while the shadows seemed to reach out and soften Shadestar, the darkness of her pelt seeming untouched by the white moon. Each leader was so different and each one said so much about their Clan, at least to Shadestar's eyes. Froststar with her secrets, Lynxstar with his dignified gaze and Nightstar with his intimidating exterior. As she took her place among them, Shadestar absently wondered what she said of RiverClan.
"SHALL we begin?" Shadestar suggested, laying her plume of a black tail delicately over her paws.
Tagged;; Gathering Singing;; NA Words;; 1231 Notes;; blech...this post is awful and i apologize for it's awfulness >.<
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Kin
Administrator
the fair queen[M:30]
resident code monkey
Posts: 256
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Post by Kin on Mar 23, 2013 18:16:20 GMT -5
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"Let all cats old enough to catch their own prey gather under highrock for a clan meeting!"
Blinking blearily, Flameheart shook his head and rose fluidly to his paws. A quick glance outside reminded his sleep-fuzzy mind of just why Nightstar's call had awoken the calico warrior in the middle of the night. The full moon hung high in the sky, bleaching light colors to silver where its rays touched, and plunging all else into shadow. Nearby, Ravenjaw, Hawkeye, Sedgewhisker and Squirrelfoot slept. He touched his nose to Ravenjaw's and Hawkeye's heads, and nudged Squirrelfoot with a paw. Flameheart left Sedgewhisker to sleep, knowing nothing would rouse the older tom from his nest save being dragged to the Gathering itself.
An electrical current seemed to crackle down Flameheart's spine as he emerged from the den, and the warrior gulped down a large breath of night air. It flowed smoothly down and curled like crisp frost in his lungs. Tonight was a beautiful night, and something in Flameheart told him it was auspicious as well. While he had his fair share of contacts throughout the Clan territories, the tom's opportunities for branching out further were limited for the lion's share of each moon. He could almost feel Nightstar's announcement in his bones, in the way his pawsteps resonated as he approached. Of course, Hawkeye would tell him he was being egotistical and delusional, and Ravenjaw would just keep trying to insist that, really, Voletail was a beautiful she-cat and Flameheart would just adore her if he'd give her a chance.
Voletail was one of the reasons Flameheart had no faith in Ravenjaw's philosophy that every cat could be happily mated and parents to wonderful kits. She was sneering and haughty, believing herself far more beautiful than she was. That cat would have everyone believe StarClan themselves labored over her creation, smoothing every strand of fur into place and settling stars in her eyes. To any cat with a functioning brain, the only thing Voletail was good for was a tumble and to spill everyone's secrets. Naturally, Flameheart paid her just enough mind to keep up with the least preposterous gossip.
"Tonight, as you well know, is the night of the gathering. I have chosen: Owlcall, Flameheart, Sedgewhisker, Leopardpaw, and Coalpaw to attend."
Sitting in the crowd of his Clanmates, Flameheart allowed himself a small, pleased smile. He stood, tail sweeping the dust clinging to his hind legs off. He moved at a confident, measured pace to the camp entrance and waited for Nightstar and Wildfang to pass before striding out of camp. The tom pondered ThunderClan's leadership as they all headed toward Fourtrees. Both leader and deputy were womanizing toms, fairly young for their stations, charismatic with a penchant for power. Both sounded quite a bit like another cat he knew....
Oh, Hawkeye would skin him if she knew his thought process. But Flameheart could see the logic. Nightstar had chosen a cat much like himself as a deputy, and it wasn't unreasonable to theorize that Wildfang would follow in the leader's pawsteps. Flameheart was a charismatic womanizer with leadership qualities (in spades, thank-you-kindly), and as logic followed, if the tom could endear himself enough to the leadership, his chances of becoming deputy would increase.
Plans and thoughts swam through Flameheart's mind, and he tweaked his existing plans until ThunderClan flooded Fourtrees. He was satisfied to note that only WindClan had arrived before them, giving the tom plenty of time to speak with his contacts and endear himself to more cats before the Gathering began. The ginger, black and white warrior sat himself in an optimal position in the clearing, nodding to the WindClan delegation. Flameheart was only mildly disappointed to find that, aside from the powers that be of the Clan, WindClan had brought only apprentices.
Still, he knew that apprentices grew to be warriors, and that leaders had once been apprentices. No cat was too unimportant for Flameheart's attentions.
words: 615 notes: bewp tagged! all
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Post by coats on Mar 24, 2013 12:19:23 GMT -5
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MUDFACE
Sitting among the other cats of his clan, Mudface had never felt more out of place. His clanmates' slow breathing filling his mind as they waited for the leader to announce who would follow her to the Gathering. Their impure hearts called to him with their imperfect rhythms, begging him to step forward and release them from their foul lives. One warrior. Two warrior. Three warrior, four. He counted the number of souls he was "competing" with for a chance to attend the Gathering. But was there any real competition? Mudface had no doubts of his selection. Orange eyes unblinking as they watched the leader of Shadowclan finally speak, the tom was silent. Say my name.
". . . . Mudface . . . . . will attend the Gathering."
A wicked smile, that of a far too proud being, spread across Mudface's dark features. His name was music to his ears, drowning out the voice that begged him to cleanse the impure for just a few moments. It was all he heard from his leader's announcement. What more was there to listen for? He failed to see any significance in the others who would be attending. The leader dropped down and exited towards the forest, her small band following behind her with anxious steps.
Marching along behind Froststar, Mudface felt like he was going to war. He could feel it in his veins, mind bubbling with the idea of experiencing the other clans. Rise, my shadows, rise to take the forest by storm! Yes, by storm. Let it rain and the world shall be consumed in mud. A God-Complex was an unstoppable force, something that nothing but an immovable object could halt. Immovable objects were rare but, luckily, so were opportunities to fight and bleed. Mudface had yet to experience the chance to wipe the other clans clean of their own impurities, to rid their warriors of their burdened lives. For now, he waited for the time to bring change upon all the naive cats but waited with patience that gods normally didn't harbor. Even though he knew that Froststar was far from declaring any kind of conflict with the other clans (or, at least he presumed), Mudface could wait, but his leader's failure to act did not prevent him from still acting like a soldier. He moved just behind the leader, willing his giddy paws to carry him faster. His chance to witness, his chance to observe and learn, was upon him. Today, Mudface would be able to analyze and understand the ways of the other clans; their weaknesses and faults would be the tom's to expose. Because the day was his and the day was now.
Froststar took her place atop the rock with the other leaders, while Mudface tried to settle far away from the lesser beings crowding the area.
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flyaway
Administrator
[M:-10]
Posts: 1,012
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Post by flyaway on Mar 24, 2013 16:52:09 GMT -5
[style=text-align:justify; margin-top:250px; width: 405px; height:245px; overflow:auto; margin-left:3px; margin-right:170px;][style=margin-top:-1px; padding-left:1px;] The stone under his paws was rough, yet worn smooth by countless paws. Lynxstar moved one of his massive paws, brushing against the rock. Tens, hundreds of leaders had stood in this space – coming before him. They had stood before their clans, before every clan, a symbol of strength and endurance. And now, with a full moon high and plump in the sky, it was Lynxstar’s job to do the same. He was a symbol of stability, that despite disaster and disease, life would indeed go on as they had always known it to. Yet as he looked down, at Windclan milling about Fourtrees impatiently, he couldn’t help but wonder what it was he really did, what the significance of it all was. But he didn’t have long to wonder. A sharp wind carried Thunderclan’s scent. A slight smile tugged at Lynxstar’s lips as Nightstar led his clan streaming into Fourtrees. The other tom joined him above the mingling clans with barely a greeting, a flash of disappointment. Lynxstar knew of Nightstar’s pride, and in beating him, of taking his place as first to arrive, he had won a small petty victory. Under usual circumstances, Lynxstar wasn’t the type to act so immaturely. But he couldn’t help himself when it came to Nightstar, somehow it was endlessly amusing – and deserved.
Lynxstar inclined his head politely to the other tom, though didn’t speak. In truth, he was distracted. He had to force his gaze blindly into the trees – to keep himself searching every inch of the ravine. But he couldn’t control his senses. He breathed in deeply, his jaws subtly parted. He wanted to catch that first light breeze, the first hint that she was near. He wanted her to see him, strong, proud, and waiting for her. It was shameful. And he sent a quick prayer of apology to his warrior ancestors. Yet he couldn’t bring himself to regret the longing, the burning need to press his face into her scarred fur, to feel her wrap around him. His eyes fluttered closed. He breathed, steadying himself. Below he could hear his warriors mingling. Heatherpaw was boundless excitement. He cracked a smile, watching her wonder and wander. Off to one side, an older white and ginger patched tom he recognized as Sedgewhisker appeared to have promptly gone to sleep. Lynxstar shook his head, returning his eyes to the crowd. He took a deep breath, steadying himself.
And there it was, her scent. His ears perked and he couldn’t help but stiffen. His eyes moved slowly to the ravine, evenly. And there she was. She stood, in all her majesty. Her clan flowed around her, mixed with his own. A moment later she had joined them. Her scent flooded him, wrapped around him. His throat closed. Yet he managed a stiff nod in her direction. She was so far away, too far away. He needed her presence, the touch of her nose to his. He forced himself to stare ahead, even as his heart hammered. She was regal, more powerful than he remembered. He could think of nothing but her, see nothing but flashes of pure ice fur from the corner of her eyes. Somewhere, like a distant voice, Riverclan arrived – the last clan to stream into the Gathering. He heard, as if from miles, Shadestar make a suggestion. He moved forward, his body on autopilot. As the first to arrive, he would initiate the Gathering. As he stood, the gathered clans hushed. He took a moment, clearing his throat – clearing his mind of the overwhelming desire to hold Froststar close and murmur his grief and loss to her waiting ears. But such a thing was not an option. He inclined his heads to the gathered cats. “Windclan fares extremely well,” despite the tradition of only representing one’s clan in the strongest light, this was actually quite true. “Prey is running well. Haresprint has given birth to three beautiful strong kittens. We are also proud to have three new warriors – Wingfeather, Meadowlark and Stoneheart.” His chest swelled slightly, thinking of the three young siblings, one of whom he had mentored himself. “And our beloved warrior Goosenose has retired to the elder’s den after countless moons of service to our clan.” He dipped his head, stepping back again, looking expectantly to the waiting leaders.
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