#lightningkit

[rippleclan]

RippleClan: Moon 76

A dog-cat makes its appearance in the territories, one of many spirits that have appeared thanks to Estherfern. With Wolfpaw there to freeze the Spirit of Shadow, the battle patrol takes it down, but Mosspounce is bruised and Downstar breaks her leg.

[Image ID: Wolfpaw, Downstar, Mosspounce, Waspdawn, Scaleripple, and Moonpaw head off to battle. Downstar yowls "Stay together!" Under Downstar, it says + CONDITION: BROKEN BONE. Under Mosspounce, it says + CONDITION: BRUISES. Under Moonpaw, it says LEVEL UP! FAITHFUL → PLAYFUL.]

(Wolfpaw: 11, female, codekeeper apprentice, thoughtful, curious about StarClan, confident with words)

(Downstar: 135, female, leader, wise, trusted advisor, very clever)

(Mosspounce: 37, male, caretaker, adventurous, talented fire-starter)

(Waspdawn: 42, male, codekeeper, strict, learner of lore, clue finder)

(Scaleripple: 29, male, warrior, lonesome, formidable fighter)

(Moonpaw: 11, female, warrior apprentice, playful, quick to help)

Tallowheart and Slushtrail earn their names.

[Image ID: Tallowheart and Slushtrail are adults! Under Tallowheart, it says LEVEL UP! TALLOWPAW → TALLOWHEART, SPLASHES IN PUDDLES → GOOD SWIMMER. Under Slushtrail, it says LEVEL UP! SLUSHPAW → SLUSHTRAIL, QUICK WITTED → CLEVER, BATS AT STRING → TALENTED WEAVER.]

(Tallowheart: 12, male, historian, nervous, good swimmer)

(Slushtrail: 12, female, mediator, wise, talented weaver, clever)

Lightningpaw feels Weedfoot beside her as she and Cobaltpaw are apprenticed to Tallowheart and Lemmy. Lemmy agrees to train two apprentices since there are no more codekeepers for Cobaltpaw. Vervainpaw is left unhappy with sharing a mentor.

[Image ID: Vervainpaw watches Lightningpaw and Cobaltpaw become apprentices. Under Lightningpaw, it says LEVEL UP! LIGHTNINGKIT → LIGHTNINGPAW, SELF-CONSCIOUS → INSECURE. Under Cobaltpaw, it says LEVEL UP! COBALTKIT → COBALTPAW, QUIET → LOYAL. Under Vervainpaw, it says LEVEL UP! AMBITIOUS → BLOODTHIRSTY.]

(Lightningpaw: 6, female, historian apprentice, insecure, always wandering)

(Cobaltpaw: 6, female, codekeeper apprentice, loyal, loves to eat)

(Vervainpaw: 11, female, codekeeper apprentice, bloodthirsty, loves nature, quick to make peace)

Having snuck away from Puddlewhisper, Silverpaw finds an abandoned human den she didn’t remember seeing before. It takes her too long to figure out the den is secretly a honeybite’s mouth. The Clan never finds her body.

[Image ID: Silverpaw approaches a red bush with white eyes inside.]

(Silverpaw: 11, female, codekeeper apprentice, strict, always asking questions, quick witted)

[cascadeclangen]

Frostleaf- Why would you hurt Lightningkit like that??

Frostleaf flattens her ears and looks past you, staring into the distance. She seems sad, sheepish, maybe disappointed in herself?

“It’s not an acceptable excuse, no kit should be treated the way I had Lightningkit. I was already stressed, and her misbehaving pushed me over the edge. I’d just- Smokestar and I have been trying to have kits for so many seasons, and none of them survived. Of course I’d come up with an idealized version of what finally raising kits would be like, and I think part of me thought that kits of my own blood would have been… better somehow.”

Frostleaf shook her head, as though dispelling the thought from her mind. It was a terrible thing to think, and poor Lightningkit had suffered for it. Smokestar had smoothed things over for her, but the damage had already been done, and she didn’t think a simple ‘sorry’ could buy her adopted daughter’s forgiveness.

[burning-thistles-bt]

little sparks was so cute!!! poor lightningkit :( even more heartbreaking when you look at her character now… i believe she does still love spottedleaf, but buries those feelings as she doesn’t want to be seen as “weak.”

what would you say caused such a drastic shift in her character? growing up with her + her siblings constantly stigmatized for being kits of a “codebreaking” medicine cat?

i’d love to see you write a lightningfur analysis.. only if it doesn’t spoil any future events though!

Lightningkit has grown up so much, my little murder baby <3

woof im not sure i could do a full character analysis like the ones i always scroll past on here but ill tell ya some stuff about her character progression!

In Little Sparks and "Prequel" (Before Into The Wild) chapters, Lightningkit loves her mother! She does the whole "I hate you! I'm not your mom!" attitude of a little kid. She was very rambunctious as a kit and always loved that Spotted would give her extra attention when she was being 'bad,' and hated when Spotted's attention was elsewhere (five kits, one who was very ill as well, plus Willowpelt and Darkkit, and her medicine cat duties--her attention was all over the place!). She acted out a lot as a kit and didn't like getting scolded, bossed around the other kits and got mad when Creekkit would be just as "bossy" as her (aka tell her off or try to lead the games instead to be more fair). She liked all her siblings except for Airkit, because she didn't get as 'attached' to him and just sort of saw him as the thing that always took Spotted's attention away (since he was sick in the med den).

Once she has her father's attention though, it all shifts and she starts changing from "I want to be good for Spottedleaf!" to "I want to be good (read: bad) for Thistleclaw!" She also admired Mapleshade A LOT and thought she was sooo cool and, later into her apprenticeship, started wishing Maple was her real mom because Spotted was "too much trouble." She hated that cats thought she was "less" just because her mom was a med cat and her dad exiled. As a kit, she sort of understood what all the fuss was about and sympathized with her mother, but as Thistle was there to twist her mind, she started to care less and less about her mother's "tough life" because "Thistle had it just as tough and he loves me more!"

Thistle really enabled her to keep her "acting out for attention" mindset, because whenever she did bad things (ex.: clawing during training, being rough with her siblings, getting mad at Spotted/others), she got his praise. She felt justified and vindicated in taking her anger out on others. Surprisingly, this also started to twist her feelings towards Airpaw from one of "ugh he's so annoying i hate him leave me alone!" to "follow me because im so much better than you and you need me to be good at anything :)" (aka the exact same stuff Thistle was pulling with her).

she liked Firepaw because he was a "neutral" ground -- he followed Thistle and he was willing to play rough, meanwhile Air was too "weak," Copper was too "soft," and Creek was too "obedient" to be mean. she was enraptured with the idea of leading the clans with all her kin, and she was enamored with the prospect Thistle gave them.

she also HATED Speckletail and Frostfur. Frostfur, in her early moons, was too "bossy" and would always try and correct Lightning and Lightning would be like "UR NOT MY MOM," plus Frost would always huff about Lightning's bad attitude. Speckle tried to be a good mentor, but she was blinded by her prejudice against Lightning, already viewing her as a "helpless bad case," so they just butted heads way too much and Lightning felt vindicated disobeying her thanks to Thistle encouraging her to

she ran to RiverClan because she LOVED the attention she received there. needless to say, everything Lightningfur does is for attention. And those who give her attention that she deems weak/pitiful/lesser than her (Airleap, Robinstorm, Sedgecreek, etc.), she treats like sh*t because "what are they gonna do? hate me? they love me too much to hate me."

it's kind of why Silverstream was her best friend. in canon, Silverstream is kind of, well, spoiled and thinks she can get away with anything. she's not mean, but she's just as attention-driven as Lightningfur. The two bounced off each other immediately, giving the other attention, but there was also this... allure with Silverstream, who -- unlike Lightningfur, who had to fight and bite and kick and scream for her attention -- only had to sit pretty and get stuff handed to her thanks to her loving and doting overprotective father Crookedstar. Silverstream's attention felt extra good to Lightningfur, because Silverstream held this air of I'm Better Than You that Lightningfur desperately wanted to have as elegantly as her. Needless to say, Lightningfur's aroace lesbian *ss crushed hard on Silverstream but buried that part of her feelings far far deep down.

Silverstream's death f*cked Lightningfur up. They were untouchable, and yet, there Silverstream was, clearly Touched. (Though Lightningfur doesn't know it, somewhere in StarClan, Silverstream is thinking the same bitter thoughts.) Lightningfur couldn't imagine a life without Silverstream, and now she became a lot more... aggressive in her behavior. Genuinely cold. Before there was a since of "we do this together," there was something grounded Lightningfur, something for her to love and remember how to be compassionate in her own Lightningfur-y way. Now, it's gone, and Lightningfur doesn't have any remorse left in her to regret the actions she commits.

This Lightningfur, our current Lightningfur, has grown a coldness in her heart. It numbs her to feeling anything but rage and sadistic pleasure. That isn't to say she never expresses some kind of fondness (ex.: Featherpaw is Silverstream's look-a-like daughter and Lightningfur will do everything she can to protect "what's left of her"), but that any kindness that might go along with those inner feelings is gone.

But cutting off emotions and refusing to acknowledge them leaves one blind, and oh, Lightningfur will be blinded.

[rippleclan]

I love how spiky the Esther family is.

If you told me James found a newborn kit and snuck it into Weedfoot’s nest, I would believe you- AND THEIR NAME IS COBALT- I know that’s a metal but isn’t that also like- blue?

Guys is James colorblind?

[i-have-no-braincells]

dude remember Sapnut's granddaughter Coniferkit? she's a mother now.

and she named one of her kits after her sister Lightningfreckle (sobbing crying throwing up /pos) (I love these little pixel cats)

THESE LITTLE PIXEL CATS OWN MY HEART DUDE-

[darling-has-a-smol-heart]

"If I had to be stuck by you. It wouldn't be that bad"

Hi ya'll! These two are my cute little darlings from my clan, TulipClan!

In summary, Coldfur and Puddleholly are siblings, members of a pretty novice TulipClan, that's still finding its footing as an actual clan. Puddleholly was chosen by Starclan to be TulipClan's medicine cat, much to her dismay, while Coldfur was more than honored to step up as their deputy. Things™ happen, mainly Puddleholly taking a mate in another clan and bringing her kits into camp, facing harsh rejection by their leader. This piece follows how the siblings cope through Coldfur's different litters. First, Coldfur had Scrubkit and Chirpkit with a passing rogue, and Puddleholly treats her kitting silently, resenting her sister for being congratulated and celebrated while her kits had the half-clan labbel forced into them. Then, many moons later, Coldfur mothered a second litter of three: Lavenderkit, Lightningkit, and Luckkit. They too had outsider roots. Finally, Coldfur took a mate in her own clan, and while she didn't carry him herself, she was enamored and would curl around Applekit in the nursery while her mate rested. Puddleholly had grown to accept her position as a medicine cat, looking at how her family grew larger and larger, and maybe, just maybe; it wasn't all that bad.

I'm not one to do lore pieces that often, but I wanted to practice, so here you go <33

[thenamessparkplug]

hey guys i made a warriors oc:3

story under cut!

TL;DR - He was found by a clan and taken in. When he grew up he became a perm den-dad, and was the main caretaker of two kids. One of which became obsessed with his own ambition, and was killed by the second. Into his old age he became very sick and there was nothing anyone could do to save him. After his death he became a ghost whom guided patrols to lost kits.

Hiddenfang was found as a kitten by several warriors when they went to investigate a barking dog. He was wedged behind a wood pile where the dog couldnt reach him, but he could hardly go anywhere. The patrol chased off the dog and took newly dubbed Hiddenkit (named after how he was found) back to their clan.

He was raised by all the clan's queens and den-dads and had a plethora of parental figures. He always looked up to them and held every one of them to an extremely high light.

As an apprentice he was proficient in hunting and fighting, no cat ever doubted his ability, but he never lost his fascination of raising kits. He constantly would visit the nursery and play games with them throughout his apprenticeship.

By the time he was meant to become a warrior, he declared he would rather spend his days raising the clan's young (He was named Hiddenfang for his protruding fangs, a bit ironic and a source of playful teasing from his friends). He would still hunt and fight when needed, but instead of patrols he spent the bulk of his day playing with and teaching kits.

Eventually throughout his career he became primary caretaker of two kits, Lightningkit and Poolkit. Both equally ambitious, the adopted brothers were an unstoppable pair throughout apprenticeship, and Hiddenfang couldn't be prouder.

Unfortunately as the two grew older into warriorhood, Poolmink began giving into his ambition in a rather... dark way. His desire for power consumed him, and eventually led to a face off between him and Lightningstorm. Lightningstorm did win, but it cost Poolmink his life.

Hiddenfang did all he could to comfort Lightningstorm while he himself mourned his lost child, but it would take many moons to move past the grief and guilt.

But everyone finds a new normal someday. Life found a new flow. For a long time after their lives went on without too much tribulation.

Until Hiddenfang began getting older. At some point he caught some odd illness that none of the medicine cats knew how to cure. Its suspected there was some form of poisoning caused by twolegs, but they never found out.

It wasn't too noticeable at first, but Hiddenfang began loosing a lot weight and his breathing started getting shallower. Not too long after he was unable to get up, and was confined to the medicine den. There wasn't much they could do but make him comfortable. Lightningstorm visited him everyday, until their final goodbyes.

Now Hiddenfang never believed much in StarClan, but they did offer him a rank among them. But as much as he wanted to see his son again, Hiddenfang refused. He instead wished to, at least for a while, remain as a ghost in the living world. He changed his name to "Song of the Lost" and guided warrior patrols to lost kits, so they might have a chance at a life just as he did. He most often takes the form of a weasel, but occasionally returns to feline form.

He plans to join StarClan one day. But for now he has a role to fulfill. He is happy.

[siennaswarriors]

Birdflight's Wish Chapter One (Warrior Cats)

“ShadowClan has invaded!”

Birdkit raced across the clearing as fast as her short legs could carry her. Only a moon away from being an apprentice, she still was very small for her age. Her littermates, Quickkit and Mothkit outpaced her, running to the elders’ den.

Largekit, Lightningkit, and Frogkit stood outside the den, hissing loudly. Considering they were a whole moon and a half younger than Birdkit and her littermates, they weren’t very intimidating “ShadowClan warriors”, but they would have to do. After all, the other five kits in the nursery were too young to be playing with them.

Birdkit skidded to a halt beside her littermates, her sides heaving as she tried to catch her breath. She may have been outpaced, but she was just as determined as her bigger siblings.

Quickkit, a sleek black tom, flicked his tail in impatience, the only sign that they had noticed her falling behind. She sent a glare her brother’s way- it wasn’t her fault he was so fast! 

Lightningkit stepped forward, “I am the leader of ShadowClan! You stole our prey!”

“ThunderClan would never steal prey!” Birdkit protested, shaking her head, “We aren’t foxhearts like you!”

“ShadowClan, attack!” Lightningkit yowled, leaping onto Quickkit, the two rolling over in a flurry of paws. Largekit, the biggest of his littermates, leapt at Birdkit while Frogkit went after Mothkit.

The big white tomkit struck, missing Birdkit’s naturally-curled ears by a whisker-length. She pounced onto him, squashing him against the ground. Despite being smaller than her siblings, she was still bigger than Largekit.

Largekit hissed in protest, trying to roll over, but Birdkit hooked her claws into the ground, “Give up?”

“ShadowClan never gives up!” Largekit snarled, but the fight slowly went out of him. Birdkit looked around to see that Quickkit and Mothkit had also defeated Lightningkit and Frogkit.

“ShadowClan, retreat!” Lightningkit panted, squirming out from underneath Quickkit and running for the nursery. Birdkit stood up and let Largekit run after his fellow “ShadowClan warriors”.

“So this is the future of ThunderClan, huh?” a voice purred from behind them. Birdkit turned around and immediately felt warm under her pelt. 

“I feel much safer,” Rabbitpaw continued with a wink, “If ShadowClan really attacks, I don’t think they’ll be stealing any kits.”

Birdkit was practically glowing until Rabbitpaw’s brother, Sunpaw, spoke up, “They’re just stupid kits- they’ll wet themselves if they see so much as a ShadowClan cat’s whisker tip!”

She and her siblings glowered at the rude apprentice, but said nothing. Mothkit stuck her nose in the air and stalked off towards the nursery, Quickkit following behind. Birdkit, on the other hand, snapped, “You were kits a moon ago, too! Why do you always have to be so mean?”

Sunpaw sneered at her while Rabbitpaw gave her an apologetic look. 

“Kits are nothing but trouble,” Sunpaw scoffed, lifting his nose into the air, “Stay out of my way. You’ll only slow me down.”

Birdkit’s pelt bristled, “One day, I’ll be a warrior too! And I bet I’ll be even better than you!”

Rabbitpaw nudged his brother, “Come on, give them a break. They’re only playing, just like we used to.” He winked at Birdkit, whiskers twitching as he said, “Besides, they might be the next cats to save ThunderClan from ShadowClan!”

Birdkit puffed out her chest at his words, but Sunpaw just rolled his eyes and said, “Whatever.”

Birdkit glared at Sunpaw as he padded away, her tail lashing, “I’ll show him!”

“Ignore him,” Rabbitpaw said softly, giving her a warm smile, “He’s just upset I beat him in training. If you ever need someone to show you some moves, let me know.”

Her fur grew warm again and she nodded, “Thanks, Rabbitpaw, I’d like that!”

Rabbitpaw trotted off after his brother, leaving Birdkit standing in front of the empty elders’ den, her paws tingling with determination. One day, she’d be a better warrior than Sunpaw ever could and, boy, would he be jealous then!

Birdkit tossed and turned in her nest, stopping only when she heard Quickkit hiss for her to stop. She shot a jealous look across the nursery at the three queens, each with peacefully-sleeping kits cuddled up to their bellies.

If only their mother hadn’t died shortly after they were old enough to eat freshkill, maybe Birdkit could sleep peacefully. Although Oaktree, their father, did so much for them, he slept in the warriors’ den instead of the nursery.

She could hear the quiet voices of warriors gathering outside for the dusk patrol and she imagined herself out there with them. Her fur ruffled by the evening breeze, her eyes heavy with sleepiness, but her claws ready to skin any cat that dared to cross ThunderClan borders! 

The voices of her Clanmates raised enough for her to overhear, and she strained to hear one voice in particular: Rabbitpaw.

Even though Rabbitpaw was only an apprentice, he was everything Birdkit aspired to be. She admired him so much- the way he encouraged the other apprentices and how he seemed to be excelling in his training. He was brave, smart, and kind- and Birdkit wanted nothing more than to follow in his pawsteps.

Birdkit slipped out of her nest and went to the edge of the nursery to peer out into the clearing. She spotted Rabbitpaw among the warriors on the dawn patrol and she held back a purr. Moonlight bathed the clearing in its pale light, making the short-tailed apprentice look almost mystical, like a StarClan warrior.

“Enjoying the view?” a knowing voice came from beside her, making her jump. Birdkit swiveled around to see her father, Oaktree, sitting beside the nursery. He gave her an affectionate lick and settled beside her, his thick tabby fur brushing against her lighter pelt.

“I wanna be on the dawn patrol too!” Birdkit whispered.

“You’re too young, little bird, and the other clans are too fierce,” despite turning her down, Oaktree’s tone was gentle and understanding, “ShadowClan’s always giving us too many issues and I’m afraid they may not realize you’re a kit if you come along...”

“Why do we always have to fight them?” Birdkit wondered, her gaze drifting to the trees towering over the gorse tunnel.

“That’s just how it’s always been,” Oaktree replied, “ThunderClan and ShadowClan don’t see eye to eye. They’re stubborn, like us.”

Birdkit stared into the distance, wondering what ShadowClan cats were like. She pictured them as dark, shadowy figures with eyes that glinted with malice. “Do you think… that there may be a ShadowClan cat who’s just like me?”

Oaktree blinked in surprise. Then, he touched his nose to her forehead, “Maybe there’s a kit over there right now, asking the same thing about ThunderClan.”

[kipxan]

CreekClan: All Leaders

☆CREEKSTAR☆

Misty Creek, Creekmist, Creekstar female || lonesome || very clever || died 14 years and 7 months old led from moon 0-26 (2 years and 2 months) Backstory: Founding leader Family: - Former Mate: Ravenblossom - Sons: Brackenwater, Lightningstar Deputies: Emeraldwhisker Medicine Cats: Oakpelt, Brackenwater Mediators: Thymefeather, Sunflight ~~~ *☆Nine Lives☆* ☆ CLOUDSTAR (StarClan Guide): knowing when to fight & when to choose peace (lost to a badger) ☆ StarClan Spirits: lost keeping CreekClan safe from a large dog, lost saving Strawberryleaf from drowning, lost to an invading rogue, lost to a WildClan warrior, and remaining lives lost to old age

☆EMERALDSTAR☆

Eyes Like Emerald, Emeraldwhisker, Emeraldstar female || confident || eloquent speaker & good storyteller || died 13 years and 3 months old led from moon 26-85 (4 years and 11 months) Backstory: Founding deputy Family: - Mate: Autumnspeckle - Daughters: Mistclaw, Rosefeather, Silverpaw, Poplarbranch, Brindlekit - Sons: Vulturetail, Servalback, Windkit, Coniferkit, Shrikepaw, Emberkit Apprentices: Dewpatch, Raccoontail, Sprucepaw Deputies: Cougarwing, Strawberryleaf, Lightningleaf Medicine Cats: Brackenwater, Soottuft, Featherfoot, Pigeonpounce Mediators: Thymefeather, Sunflight ~~~ *☆Nine Lives☆* ☆ EMBERKIT: resilience (lost in a rogue ambush) ☆ SHRIKEPAW: clear judgement (lost eating tainted prey) ☆ OAKPELT: devotion (lost to a badger) ☆ BRINDLEKIT: adventure (lost keeping CreekClan safe from a large dog) ☆ RAVENBLOSSOM: certainty (lost eating a poisoned rabbit) ☆ OCHREKIT: protection (lost in a rogue ambush) ☆ CREEKSTAR: the strength to overcome her fears (lost to a badger) ☆ StarClan Spirits: last two lives lost fighting a hawk

☆LIGHTNINGSTAR☆

Lightningkit, Lightningpaw, Lightningleaf, Lightningstar male || fierce || impressive climber & good hunter || died 8 years and 3 months old led from moon 85-115 (2 years and 6 months) Backstory: Clanborn Family: - Mother: Creekstar - Father: Ravenblossom - Brother: Brackenwater - Mate: Mistclaw - Daughters: Lizardflight, Irondapple, Skykit - Sons: Elmwing, Robinroar, Cherrykit Mentor: Strawberryleaf »» Influenced him to be more likely to behave erratically and put others at ease »» Helped him become better at climbing and caring for kittens »» Honored for his boldness Apprentices: Silverpaw, Irondapple Deputies: Vulturetail, Wolfspeck Medicine Cats: Brackenwater, Soottuft, Featherfoot, Pigeonpounce Mediators: Thymefeather, Sunflight ~~~ *☆Nine Lives☆* ☆ MISTCLAW: courage (lost falling from a tall tree) ☆ ROBINROAR: pride (lost to an infected wound) ☆ RAVENBLOSSOM: unity (lost to a dog after following a trespasser's scent) ☆ SKYKIT: perspective (lost saving Boarstep from a snake) ☆ BRACKENWATER: acceptance (remaining lives lost when he was swept away by the river) ☆ NECTARCRY: farsightedness (lost to the river) ☆ COUGARWING: integrity (lost to the river) ☆ ANTLEAF: mercy (lost to the river) ☆ EMERALDSTAR: tireless energy (lost to the river)

☆WOLFSTAR☆

Wolfkit, Wolfpaw, Wolfspeck, Wolfstar female || lonesome || formidable fighter || died 13 years and 10 months old led from moon 115-191 (6 years and 4 months) Backstory: Clanborn Family: - Mother: Pouncemoth - Father: Dandelionpounce - Brothers: Caverntail, Raccoontail, Glacierpelt, Geckokit - Sisters: Birchkit, Mudkit - Half Sibling: Dawnwish - Mates: Irispelt, Crescentcloud - Daughter: Splinterblink - Sons: Cricketjump, Copperstripe - Adopted Sons: Patchtwig, Sleethawk Mentor: Antleaf »» Influenced her to be more likely to step out of her comfort zone and heed her inner compass »» Helped her become better at fighting »» Honored for her tranquility Apprentices: Lizardflight, Cedarback, Brackenpaw, Muddapple Deputies: Alligatordapple, Irondapple, Hawkfall, Marigoldwhisker Medicine Cats: Featherfoot, Cricketjump, Blackberryleaf, Songsun, Leopardclaw, Thicketrose, Wolverinefeather Mediators: Thymefeather, Cormorantstep, Moonleaf, Maplenose, Darkblaze ~~~ *☆Nine Lives☆* ☆ IRISPELT: strength (lost to a broken bone) ☆ DANDELIONPOUNCE: confidence (lost to an infected wound) ☆ VULTURETAIL: farsightedness (lost to a dog) ☆ SHADESPOTS: compassion (lost to a lightning strike) ☆ MISTCLAW: bravery (lost in a rogue ambush) ☆ AUTUMNFRECKLE: humility (lost driving out a rogue) ☆ LAVENDERSUN: clear judgement (lost to whitecough) ☆ CAVERNTAIL: endurance (lost to old age) ☆ LIGHTNINGSTAR: loyalty to the Clan (lost to a venemous snake)

☆MARIGOLDSTAR☆

Marigold, Marigoldkit, Marigoldpaw, Marigoldwhisker, Marigoldstar male || cunning || keen eye & renowned hunter || died 11 years and 8 months old led from moon 191-228 (3 years and 1 month) Backstory: abandoned; found and taken in by CreekClan at 4 moons old Family: - Mate: Rosemaryfall - Daughters: Heatherpaw, Astersight, Forestpaw - Sons: Fogfur, Servalglow, Petalbreeze - Adopted Son: Mintpatch Mentor: Cardinalsong »» Influenced him to be more likely to have a positive outlook and be friendly towards others »» Helped him become better at noticing small details and remembering lore »» Honored for his patience Apprentices: Acornpelt, Galefur, Lunarfrost Deputies: Rainspeck, Hailspring Medicine Cats: Cricketjump, Thicketrose, Wolverinefeather, Thistletuft, Flickerclaw Mediatiors: Cricketjump, Thicketrose, Wolverinefeather, Thistletuft, Flickerclaw ~~~ *☆Nine Lives☆* ☆ ROSEMARYFALL: endurance (lost to a hawk) ☆ FORESTPAW: forgiveness (lost after ingesting deathberries) ☆ BLACKBERRYLEAF: clear judgement (lost to an invading rogue) ☆ HEATHERPAW: trust (lost fighting an eagle) ☆ CEDARBACK: strength (lost keeping CreekClan safe from a large dog) ☆ CARDINALSONG: acceptance (lost to greencough) ☆ SPRIGCLOVE: unity (lost to a dog) ☆ WOLFSTAR: loyalty to the Clan (lost to yellowcough)

☆HAILSTAR☆

Hailkit, Hailpaw, Hailspring, Hailstar trans female || adventurous || lore master & steady paws || died 11 years and 7 months old led from moon 228-294 (5 years and 6 months) Backstory: Clanborn Family: - Mother: Lightstripe - Father: Sparkhowl - Adoptive Father: Mintpatch - Brothers: Runningfeather, Sandfeather - Sister: Moorpaw - Mate: Lynxthorn Mentors: Boulderfeather, Owlbreeze »» Honored for her energy Apprentices: Tigereyes, Heatherfur, Fallenfern Deputies: Opossomfur, Nectarheart Medicine Cats: Thicketrose (briefly), Thistletuft, Flickerclaw, Honeyflight, Talonclaw, Dovewalker, Sparrowbreeze, Galepelt, Ocelotshade Mediators: Swampheart, Deerstripe, Saltbrook, Jaspersnow ~~~ *☆Nine Lives☆* ☆ LYNXTHORN: courage (lost fighting a big dog) ☆ ACORNPELT: endurance (lost to a festering wound) ☆ MOTHFROST: sympathy (lost saving Antlerpaw from a dog) ☆ SPARKHOWL: forgiveness (lost to an invading rogue) ☆ ALLIGATORDAPPLE: farsightedness (lost keeping CreekClan safe from a large dog) ☆ SABLEFLOWER: clear judgement (lost after being mauled by a dog) ☆ DAWNLEAP: acceptance (lost to a badger) ☆ CRICKETJUMP: faith (lost in a rogue ambush) ☆ MARIGOLDSTAR: knowing when to fight & when to choose peave (lost to an infected wound)

☆NECTARSTAR☆

Nectarkit, Nectarpaw, Nectarheart, Nectarstar female || strange/responsible || steady paws || died 13 years and 11 months old led from moon 294-376 (6 years and 10 months) Backstory: Clanborn Family: - Mothers: Lakecloud and Thrashereye - Brother: Solarblossom - Sisters: Tundratooth, Soilstalk, Skyfeather, Sprigpaw - Mate: Icemoth - Former Mate: Unknown loner - Daughters: Fogkit, Blackberryspeck, Lightkit, Sandshade, Cardinalthorn, Antlerkit - Sons: Gorsespeckle, Swiftkit Mentor: Palewalker »» Influenced her to be more likely to think things through, try to avoid violence, and bend the rules »» Honored for her individuality Apprentices: Primrosetuft, Almondleap Deputies: Lavendertuft, Hazelstripe, Almondleap, Cinnamondapple Medicine Cats: Honeyflight, Talonclaw, Dovewalker, Sparrowbreeze, Galepelt, Ocelotshade, Chitindapple, Mossyfreckle, Heatherfoot Mediators: Deerstripe, Saltbrook, Jaspersnow, Acornspot, Rivernose, Spirefur ~~~ *☆Nine Lives☆* ☆ PATCHTWIG (grandfather): certainty (lost to a badger) ☆ FOGKIT: forgiveness (lost while kitting) ☆ THRASHEREYE: instincts (lost to an invading rogue) ☆ HEATHERFUR: endurance (lost in a dog attack) ☆ SOILSTALK: acceptance (lost keeping CreekClan safe from a large dog) ☆ LAKECLOUD: strength (lost in a rogue ambush) ☆ LOCUSTPOND: pride (lost after being crushed by a falling tree) ☆ TUNDRATOOTH: farsightedness (lost fighting a small dog) ☆ HAILSTAR: loyalty to the Clan (lost to old age)

☆CINNAMONSTAR☆

Cinnamonkit, Cinnamonpaw, Cinnamondapple, Cinnamonstar male || compassionate || impressive climber & good speaker || died 13 years and 5 months old led from moon 376-434 (4 years and 10 months) Backstory: Clanborn Family: - Mother: Sprucepounce - Father: Woodtail - Brothers: Yarrowchaser, Volcanopelt, Scorchheart, Frozenthroat - Sisters: Galepelt, Beechkit, Featherfleck - Half Brother: Fallenfern - Half Sisters: Ivyfur, Squirrelpaw, Wolfkit - Mates: Featherstripe, Sprucesnarl - Son: Murktail - Child: Brooksnow Mentor: Moosepelt »» Influenced him to be more likely to think things through, interact with others, and use words over teeth and claws »» Helped him become better at climbing »» Honored for his dedication Apprentices: Barkspeck, Geckofern, Larkpaw, Sableclaw, Sleetflower Deputies: Quietsong, Fisherstream Medicine Cats: Honeyflight, Mossyfreckle, Heatherfoot, Rootclaw, Earthberry, Cavernmask, Thicketcloud Mediators: Saltbrook, Acornspot, Spirefur, Rowanfall, Jackalhowl ~~~ *☆Nine Lives☆* ☆ FEATHERSTRIPE: courage (lost to a badger) ☆ DOVEWALKER: devotion (lost keeping CreekClan safe from a large dog) ☆ SPRUCEPOUNCE: determination (lost to a dog after following a trespasser's scent) ☆ WOODTAIL: compassion (lost to a broken bone) ☆ RIVERNOSE: instincts (lost to a rogue ambush) ☆ THUNDERKIT: curiosity (lost to an invading rogue) ☆ AUTUMNSWOOP: strength (lost to a badger) ☆ CARDINALTHORN: endurance (lost falling from a tall tree) ☆ NECTARSTAR: the strength to overcome his fears (lost after failing to interpret a warning from StarClan)

☆FISHERSTAR☆

Fisherkit, Fisherpaw, Fisherstream, Fisherstar female || playful || den builder & good speaker || died 13 years and 6 months old led from moon 434-502 (5 years and 8 months) Backstory: Clanborn Family: - Mothers: Sandshade, Flarefur - Brothers: Larkpaw, Birchpaw - Mates: Murkpelt, Miretail - Daughter: Mosspelt - Sons: Ashsight, Drizzlefog, Weaselpaw, Sneezekit Mentor: Oakmane »» Influenced her to be more likely to defend her beliefs, heed her inner compass, and have a positive outlook »» Helped her become better at arguing and caring for camp »» Honored for her liveliness Apprentices: Seadrop, Brinefall, Splashtooth, Icicletuft Deputies: Scalefoot, Brushpelt, Berrywatcher Medicine Cats: Rootclaw, Earthberry, Cavernmask, Thicketcloud, Mossyfreckle, Flutterwind Mediators: Acornspot, Rowanfall, Jackalhowl, Leopardspots, Mossmane ~~~ *☆Nine Lives☆* ☆ MURKPELT: unity (lost to a badger) ☆ FLAREFUR: mercy (lost after falling in the river) ☆ SEADROP: confidence (lost eating tainted fresh-kill) ☆ SANDSHADE: acceptance (lost fighting a small dog) ☆ ROTSHADOW: clear judgement (remaining lives lost to old age) ☆ SPARROWLEAP (Ashsight's mate): affection (lost to old age) ☆ MOSSPELT: affection (lost to old age) ☆ WEASELPAW: mentoring (lost to old age) ☆ CREEKSTAR: tireless energy (lost to old age)

☆BERRYSTAR☆

Berrykit, Berrypaw, Berrywatcher, Berrystar male || ambitious/charismatic || great hunter & prophecy seeker || died 13 years and 11 months old led from moon 502-575 (6 years and 1 month) Backstory: Clanborn Family: - Mother: Firefog - Parent: Stormclaw - Brothers: Foxcall, Jackalhowl - Sisters: Skyfur, Antlerdusk, Cricketwhisker - Adopted Brothers: Glacierpaw, Poplarkit - Adopted Sister: Frostpaw - Mates: Cavernmask, Echofeather - Daughters: Raspberrykit, Saltsplash, Specklefrost, Sweetcreek, Siennaleap, Redtwig - Sons: Crowclaw, Bluekit - Child: Sprucepool Mentor: Juniperfall »» Influenced him to be more likely to break rules that don't suit him, interact with others, and be consistent »» Helped him become better at hunting »» Honored for his commitment Apprentices: Creekbird, Snowbreeze, Sandfog, Siennaleap Deputies: Forestwind, Silverfur, Echofeather, Marshsong Medicine Cats: Earthberry, Cavernmask, Thicketcloud, Flutterwind, Yewpelt, Bloodnight Mediators: Rowanfall, Leopardspots, Mossmane, Buttercupclaw, Earthcreek, Chestnutstripe ~~~ *☆Nine Lives☆* ☆ SALTSPLASH: friendship (lost to a dog after following a trespasser's scent) ☆ FIREFOG: integrity (lost to a badger) ☆ STORMCLAW: unconditional love (lost to a badger) ☆ RASPBERRYKIT: adventure (lost in a rogue ambush) ☆ ORCHIDKIT: protection (lost to yellowcough) ☆ RIFTROAR (Cavernmask's brother): endurance (lost to a rogue ambush) ☆ CRICKETWHISKER: mercy (lost to an invading rogue) ☆ RUSTPAW: sympathy (lost to a flood) ☆ CINNAMONSTAR: loyalty to the Clan (lost after being mauled by dogs)

☆MARSHSTAR☆

Marshkit, Marshpaw, Marshsong, Marshstar male || charismatic/loyal || great kitsitter & clever || died 14 years old led from moon 575-636 (5 years and 1 month) Backstory: Clanborn Family: - Fathers: Tawnysight, Frostbreeze - Sisters: Earthkit, Reedstalk - Mates: Jaytuft, Lynxstep - Daughters: Harriertail, Rosypaw, Sorrelstripe, Blueberrykit - Sons: Dandelionmask, Cougarspeckle, Sunpaw, Cloudleaf, Brinefall (a different one lol) Mentor: Flamefeather »» Influenced him to be more likely to use teeth and claws over words and break away from the status quo »» Helped him become better at solving problems »» Honored for his sociability Apprentices: Tempestwhisker, Spottedscar, Talonbreeze, Featherfur, Brinefall Deputies: Lynxstep, Kitewhisker, Applebranch Medicine Cats: Flutterwind, Yewpelt, Bloodnight, Skipperflight, Thawspeckle, Fawntuft Mediators: Leopardspots, Buttercupclaw, Chestnutstripe, Peachleaf, Mosspurr ~~~ *☆Nine Lives☆* ☆ FROSTBREEZE: unity (lost to a badger) ☆ TAWNYSIGHT: confidence (lost to a bite-wound from a small dog) ☆ DANDELIONMASK: empathy (lost saving Skytooth from a snake) ☆ SUNPAW: compassion (lost after being crushed by a falling tree) ☆ ROSYPAW: trust (remaining lives lost to old age) ☆ REEDSTALK: courage (lost to old age) ☆ HOLLYFOG (cousin): acceptance (lost to old age) ☆ SOLARSPOTS (cousin): determination (lost to old age) ☆ BERRYSTAR: loyalty to the Clan (lost to old age)

☆APPLESTAR☆

Applekit, Applepaw, Applebranch, Applestar female || ambitious || impressive climber & natural intuition || died 14 years old led from moon 636-694 (4 years and 10 months) Backstory: Clanborn Family: - Father: Silverfur - Mother: Orchidspots - Brothers: Maplekit, Houndpaw, Pebblefur, Dawnfleck, Ochrekit, Elkkit, - Sisters: Rowankit, Leafheart, Thymekit, Mossmane, Asterheart, Tempestwhisker, Swallowkit, Earthcreek - Half Sisters: Shellstalk, Dustypaw - Mate: Skytooth - Daughters: Vulturedapple, Berrykit, Saltfall, Foxkit, Bloompaw, Mushroomfur, Volekit - Sons: Shysong, Lightningkit, Quartzstorm, Dustbranch, Hazelpaw Mentor: Pinespeck »» Influenced her to be more likely to step out of her comfort zone, try to avoid violence, and have a positive outlook »» Helped her become better at climbing »» Honored for her adaptability Apprentices: Lakestripe, Dustypaw, Quietwing, Berryfreckle, Falconheart Deputies: Flamewhisker, Coniferthorn Medicine Cats: Thawspeckle, Fawntuft, Spottedstone, Seaflower, Minnowstripe Mediators: Peachleaf, Mosspurr, Knollpond, Shadowdapple ~~~ *☆Nine Lives☆* ☆ QUARTZSTORM: certainty (lost to an infected wound) ☆ VULTUREDAPPLE: friendship (lost defending Rustlepool from a fox) ☆ SILVERFUR: pride (lost in a fight with a small dog) ☆ ORCHIDSPOTS: clear judgement (lost to a venomous snake) ☆ SHYSONG: forgiveness (lost defending Leopardkit from a badger) ☆ SALTFALL: strength (lost to a hawk) ☆ BLOOMPAW: acceptance (lost to old age) ☆ RIFTPURR: instincts (lost to old age) ☆ BERRYSTAR: knowing when to fight & when to choose peace (lost to old age)

☆CONIFERSTAR☆

Coniferkit, Coniferpaw, Coniferthorn, Coniferstar female || confident || great kitsitter || current leader led from moon 694-? Backstory: Clanborn Family: - Fathers: Brinefall, Emberstorm - Brothers: Gloomkit, Bonestripe, Shadespeck, Rowanpaw - Sisters: Shykit, Swiftstep, Hawkkit, Basilheart, Riverkit, Lightningshadow - Mates: Snowheart, Peachleaf - Daughters: Smokeleaf, Snaildapple - Sons: Barkfrost, Dovepelt - Adoptive Daughters: Patchkit, Sootpaw Mentors: Saltfall, Dewglow »» Saltfall influenced her to be more likely to break rules that don't suit her and be slow to anger »» Dewglow influenced her to be more likely to put others at ease, follow rules, be resilient, and avoid a fight »» Honored for her generosity Apprentices: Poppyspring, Ashfall Deputies: Bonestripe Medicine Cats: Fawntuft, Spottedstone, Seaflower, Minnowstripe Mediators: Peachleaf, Mosspurr, Knollpond, Shadowdapple ~~~ *☆Nine Lives☆* ☆ SNOWHEART: unity ☆ EMBERSTORM: strength ☆ LIGHTNINGSHADOW: friendship ☆ PATCHKIT: optimism ☆ SOOTPAW: protection ☆ LICHENSLIP: bravery ☆ BRINEFALL: sympathy ☆ QUIETWING: mercy ☆ APPLESTAR: knowing when to fight & when to choose peace

[thesnakerootwoods]

Year 3. October. The Thing hasn't eaten in 5 moons...

₊˚ʚ ᗢ₊˚✧ ﾟ.

Events Chasingcreek has greencough

Stoattuft's bee stings are all healed!

Forestkit died of kittencough. SnakerootClan mourns the loss of his potential as they lay him to rest.

Milkweedpaw, Logpaw, Ospreypaw, Birdpaw, Kestrelpaw, Whisperpaw, and Mistlepaw have all been made apprentices. Their solo patrols are due to begin today.

₊˚ʚ ᗢ₊˚✧ ﾟ.

New Sprites I'm... not listing all those names again haha Bonus Fernpaw! She's 12 moons old now!

₊˚ʚ ᗢ₊˚✧ ﾟ.

Thoughts Serpentstar wants to know Whisperpaw better

Icyeye wants to spend time alone

Chaffinchflip eavesdrops on Milkweedpaw

Mallowskip sneaks out of camp

Chasingcreek watches Lightningkit closely

Boulderheart wards off Lightningkit's begging to learn battle moves

Foghowl craves rabbit

Meadowfur eavesdrops on Birdpaw

Sunpatch worries about Birdpaw

Stoattuft spars with some Clanmates

Fernpaw wonders if she could talk her way out of her morning duties...

Milkweedpaw saves the softest bedding for himself

Logpaw wonders if Meadowfur was a good apprentice

Ospreypaw explains the importance of respecting elders to Lightningkit and Blossomkit

Birdpaw feels gloomy

Kestrelpaw and Larkpaw crave rabbit

Whisperpaw eavesdrops on Logpaw

Mistlepaw wants to know Stoattuft better

Lightningkit's scared after having a nightmare

Blossomkit wants to be really big one day

₊˚ʚ ᗢ₊˚✧ ﾟ.

Patrols

Kestrelpaw The forest is silent. Kestrelpaw moves carefully through the bushes, eyes darting. The quiet makes his fur stand on end. It's dark when the patrol finds him, alive but bleeding badly. When asked, all he remembers is flashing teeth the color of snow and blinding pain.

Larkpaw There's something really wrong with the forest. Larkpaw knows this, of course, has always known it, but this is the first time he's experienced it. He arrives home a few hours later, deeply unsettled but unable to pinpoint why.

Mistlepaw A flash of movement catches Mistlepaw's eye. She darts over, but whatever had moved is gone. She breathes a sigh of relief and moves on.

Birdpaw Birdpaw's mind is filled with questions. Why do the solo patrols? Why not just leave the forest? Why live under the paws of the Thing? He comes home safe, questions burning the tip of his tongue.

Ospreypaw Ospreypaw's paws scrabble against the ground. Something has her by the scruff of her neck, and she can't get free, she can't escape, oh StarClan is this the end- She's dragged over rocks and stones and through bushes, and she finally manages to dig her claws into a branch and tear away. She doesn't look back as she races back to camp, not wanting to chance being caught again. Ospreypaw has no idea what had grabbed her, and quite frankly, she hopes she'll never learn.

Logpaw Logpaw sees pawprints in the mud. He's so caught up in examining them- he's never seen anything like them!- that he doesn't see the blow coming. He screams as he feels his leg twist and snap, and he wriggles away from whatever had attacked him and races for home.

Milkweedpaw The forest is friendly and uninviting. Milkweedpaw shudders as he skirts around the edges of a clearing, and he heads home as soon as he can.

Whisperpaw Whisperpaw's walk, as nervous about it as she was, is... oddly pleasant. She even manages to catch a mouse!

Mallowskip & Fernpaw Mallowskip and Fernpaw make their way to a troop of mushrooms, eager to get more prey for the Clan. They can hear rats squeaking among the fungi. They crouch and slowly stalk towards them and pounce! Spores burst into a cloud and coat their fur, and the pair makes sure to wash off on their way back.

Stoattuft & Meadowfur Meadowfur spots pawprints in the mud and decides to follow them. He finds a trespassing rogue, and he and Stoattuft demand they leave immediately. Intimidated, the rogue gives in and leaves without a fight.

Chaffinchflip The mullein towers impressively over the other plants, and it's a good time to harvest it. Chaffinchflip could swear that there's usually some here, but there isn't today.

[rippleclan]

RippleClan: Moon 74

Rattlepelt starts weaving lavender through her fox pelt to mark her changed self since her possession. Splashtuft cuts his leg on ocean debris and develops a scar.

[Image ID: Rattlepelt now has a sprig of lavender by her ear. Under her, it reads + ACCESSORY: LAVENDER, - CONDITION: BITE WOUND. Splashtuft now has a small scar on his left hind leg.]

(Rattlepelt: 57, female, artisan, thoughtful, leather artist)

(Splashtuft: 22, male, historian, adventurous, fast runner, student of art)

(Moon 74, Part 2)

Estherfern’s kits become apprentices.

[Image ID: Estherfern’s five kits now have apprentice sprites. Under Thunderpaw, it says LEVEL UP! THUNDERKIT → THUNDERPAW, BULLYING → ADVENTUROUS. Under Boughpaw, it says LEVEL UP! BOUGHKIT → BOUGHPAW, QUIET → RIGHTEOUS. Under Brightpaw, it says LEVEL UP! BRIGHTKIT → BRIGHTPAW, SKY → LONESOME, + PERMANENT CONDITION: SOCIAL ANXIETY. Under Foampaw, it says LEVEL UP! FOAMKIT → FOAMPAW, UNRULY → TROUBLESOME. Under Wolverinepaw, it says LEVEL UP! WOLVERINEKIT → WOLVERINEPAW, SKITTISH → COMPASSIONATE.]

---

“Let me be the first to say that you five have a hard apprenticeship ahead of you,” Downstar declared over the camp as Estherfern sat behind her kits. All five sat as groomed as Estherfern could get them, trying to remember their mother’s lessons on decorum. Brightkit shook harder than anyone else, ears threatening to tilt down. Wolverinekit and Foamkit’s tails poked at the other, unable to keep their excitement hidden. Thunderkit sat just a bit closer to the Shiprock while Boughkit remained the only one still and politely attentive, as Estherfern taught her to be. The rest of RippleClan listened with similar captured attention to their leader.

“On top of some of the personal struggles you face,” Downstar continued, “I’m afraid you won’t have the same freedoms most of your Clanmates had at your age. We can’t risk you being caught unawares by the spirit that claimed our beloved deputy.” Estherfern would make sure of that. She had already performed a ritual over the apprentice’s den with Honeybuzz and Weevilpaw, guarding the incoming apprentices from harm.

“Despite that,” Downstar said, “RippleClan will ensure you are ready for the challenges ahead. The five of you have reached the age of six moons, and it is time for you to be apprenticed. Thunderkit, from this day forward until you receive your full name, you shall be known as Thunderpaw. You have expressed interest in the path of a caretaker, and I have chosen Drumtooth as your mentor.” The newly named Thunderpaw jumped up, scanning the crowd behind her mother for her new mentor. Drumtooth slipped around Estherfern and the other kits. Thunderpaw was almost Drumtooth’s size, making it easy for her to touch his nose. Her whole pelt shivered with excitement. 

“In order to give you the best pawhold on your future,” Downstar added as Drumtooth and Thunderpaw returned their gaze to her, “Troutpool and Paleseed have arranged for you to receive some lessons in Clan-sign from Mummichogleap, a deaf warrior of SlugClan. I’ve already informed Drumtooth of this arrangement and with his help, you shall become an excellent caretaker.”

“I’ll try, Downstar,” Drumtooth promised with a deep nod.

“Me too,” Thunderpaw chirped.

Clan-sign? Estherfern had never heard of any lesson plans. She was Thunderpaw’s mother, why hadn’t she been informed? She found Troutpool to the side of the crowd, seated with Tallowpaw and Slushpaw. Troutpool’s focus was on Thunderpaw as she and Drumtooth moved aside for the next kit of the litter to earn their name. Why would Troutpool agree to these lessons? How much time would this Clan-sign take away from Thunderpaw’s important lessons? Why did she have to learn such a trick when she should use that time to hone her survival skills? If they had to talk to someone outside the Clan for these lessons, obviously no one in RippleClan knew Clan-sign. What would be the point of learning something no one else understood?

Estherfern got so caught up in herself, she nearly missed when Boughkit stepped forward and Downstar delivered her new name.

“From this moment on,” Downstar declared, “until you receive your full name, you shall be known as Boughpaw. You have chosen a historian’s path, and I have chosen Oilstripe as your mentor.”

“You did?” Oilstripe muttered so quietly Estherfern barely heard her. She crept out of the crowd, focus shifting between Boughpaw and Downstar.

“Weedfoot taught you well, Oilstripe,” Downstar sighed with a slow nod. “I want you to continue following in her pawsteps by training a new apprentice.” Oilstripe held her breath at the mention of the former deputy. She sighed, bowing softly with a quiet purr. She softly touched noses with Boughpaw and escorted her to the side.

“Brightkit,” Downstar called. Brightkit didn’t move at first, eyes locked on Downstar, paws stuck in the sand. Foamkit head-butted him from behind, making him skitter forward. He fought to his paws, staring up in awe at his leader. “From this day forward until you receive your full name, you shall be known as Brightpaw. In order to craft you into the best warrior you can be, Trumpetspore shall be your mentor. Her wisdom and skill shall guide you down the path you’re destined to follow.” Estherfern hid her disappointment when Trumpetspore came up. The black molly was too awkward for Estherfern’s tastes. Brightpaw needed a mentor with strength and confidence to supply him with what he lacked. Estherfern bit her tongue as Trumpetspore and Brightpaw touched noses.

“Foamkit,” Downstar said, but the ticked molly was up and ready before her name was even called. “From this moment on, until you receive your full name, you shall be known as Foampaw. You have decided to be a caretaker like your sister, so I have chosen Mosspounce as your mentor. Don’t get into too much trouble, now.” A chuckle rose through the Clan as Mosspounce bounded to his new apprentice. The pair smacked into one another’s faces in their eagerness to touch noses. Now if only Foampaw was a warrior and Brightpaw was a caretaker. Their mentors would have been good influences then. 

“Now Wolverinekit,” Downstar sighed, focusing on the youngest and fluffiest of the litter. “You have yet to tell me what path your paws wish to follow. As such, I will place you as a warrior apprentice, and you may change this path if you feel called to do so at any time. Do you understand?”

“Yes, Downstar,” Wolverinekit said. Estherfern tensed. Why was her confident, curious daughter unsure what to train as? It was her vision, Estherfern was sure of it. She felt insecure in her skills, she had to. How could she not? There had to be a way to cure her vision, no matter what anyone else said. Estherfern would find that cure.

“Then from this moment on, until you receive your warrior name,” Downstar declared, “you shall be known as Wolverinepaw. Leathermask shall be your mentor.” The Clan began to cheer before Leathermask even got close to Wolverinepaw.

“Thunderpaw! Boughpaw! Brightpaw! Foampaw! Wolverinepaw!” What a long chant! It seemed undignified for a priestess to raise her voice like everyone else. Still, her children deserved the honor. Estherfern yowled along with her Clanmates as her five kits beamed in the praise. 

“Can we all train together?” Thunderpaw asked, gently pawing Drumtooth’s shoulder. “Can we go see Battle Beach?” Wolverinepaw and Foampaw’s eyes glinted at the idea. 

“Maybe we should get you all settled in the apprentice’s den first,” Oilstripe suggested. “It’s almost sunhigh. We might as well make sure you all have a place to sleep, considering how little room there is in there.”

“I’m making my nest next to Vervainpaw!” Foampaw yowled. She charged across camp, ignoring Estherfern entirely.

“I already said I’m sleeping next to her!” Wolverinepaw huffed, running after her sister. The other cats trailed after the excited mollies, accepting the congratulations of their Clanmates as they passed. However, only four apprentices headed for the apprentice’s den. Brightpaw whispered something in Trumpetspore’s ear. Trumpetspore listened intently and nodded. Brightpaw scurried off toward the warrior’s den. Now what was so important that Brightpaw would run away as soon as his ceremony was over?

Estherfern trailed through the dissipating crowds after her only son. Brightpaw paused at the edge of the den, looking in and out. Estherfern paused outside the artisan’s supply den, pretending to nibble an itch on her paw. Spikecrash padded to the warrior’s den with a big yawn. From the corner of her eye, Estherfern saw Brightpaw paw at Spikecrash before she could enter. She turned her ear to the conversation.

“That was horrible,” Brightpaw gulped. “I thought you said the ceremony wouldn’t be bad!”

“It wasn’t, I promise,” Spikecrash insisted, tail to Brightpaw’s shoulder. “Do you remember what I told you?”

“My heart makes me more scared than I need to be around others,” Brightpaw muttered, head sinking, “but I need to trust my heart too, don’t I?”

“Social anxiety can be a deceitful disorder of the mind, Brightpaw,” Spikecrash said. “When it comes to these moments, your heart wants to run away, but just remember, you don’t have to. Whatever you may think, it’s not what everyone else thinks. Try to remember that the next time you have to talk to a lot of cats.” 

Social anxiety? Now what was that? Estherfern had never heard of a disorder of the mind before. She knew mediators dealt with those sorts of issues, but she had dismissed them as simple emotional problems. Was Brightpaw sick? How long had he been talking to Spikecrash? Why had he not told Estherfern what was wrong? Another kit of hers, sick, set apart from the Clan, placed at disadvantage…

Estherfern would not stand for this.

(Downstar: 133, female, leader, wise, trusted advisor, very clever)

(Estherfern: 108, female, cleric, bloodthirsty, great mediator, prophecy seeker)

(Brightpaw: 6, male, warrior apprentice, lonesome, lover of art)

(Wolverinepaw: 6, female, warrior apprentice, compassionate, always asking questions)

(Foampaw: 6, female, caretaker apprentice, troublesome, always wandering)

(Thunderpaw: 6, female, caretaker apprentice, adventurous, moss-ball hunter)

(Boughpaw: 6, female, historian apprentice, righteous, constantly climbing)

(Drumtooth: 22, trans male, caretaker, loyal, great hunter, clever)

(Oilstripe: 78, female, deputy, charismatic, ghost speaker)

(Trumpetspore: 35, female, warrior, nervous, excellent potter, good storyteller)

(Mosspounce: 35, male, caretaker, adventurous, talented fire-starter)

(Leathermask: 22, male, warrior, nervous, good fighter, eloquent speaker)

(Spikecrash: 49, female, mediator, wise, good speaker, lore keeper)

Stormkit is worried about Lightningkit, who whimpers in her sleep.

[Image ID: Stormkit approaches Lightningkit, asking "Lightningkit?"]

---

The nursery was so different from the one Stormkit saw in her earliest memories. That nursery had been so packed with kits and queens, there was barely any room to move come nightfall! But now, with Estherfern’s litter in the now stuffed apprentice’s den, only two nests remained. Stormkit was getting too big to sleep with her father and littermates in the same nest, but she stayed close to the warmth of Waspdawn’s chest regardless, at peace with the weight of his chin on her back.

She wasn’t sure what woke her up at first. Her droopy eyes took a while to adjust to the dark and empty den. Sandkit and Yellowkit were thrown on top of each other, lost in their dreams. Waspdawn breathed slowly, his escaping breath tickling Stormkit’s fur. Their nest was a dark golden blur in the deep shadow. Puddlewhisper slept in the back of the den with Lightningkit and Cobaltkit. She, her siblings, and James took turns sleeping with Lightningkit and Cobaltkit in the nursery ever since Weedfoot left camp and returned as still and limp as Littlekit had once been. Whatever woke Stormkit, the noise came from the back of the den.

Stormkit pulled herself out from under Waspdawn’s chin. His head plunked into the nest. Stormkit froze, waiting for Waspdawn to wake up, but he remained asleep, breath now fiddling with the loose moss at the nest’s edge. Stormkit crawled out of the nest and peered deeper into the nursery. A tiny whimper caught her ear. 

“Lightningkit?” Stormkit whispered. Deep blue eyes burst to life at Puddlewhisper’s side. Really, did neither adult hear her denmate’s cries? 

“Huh?” Lightningkit gulped with a crack in her voice. “Stormkit?”

“Were you crying?” Stormkit asked. She snuck closer to the long-furred kit. Cobaltkit and Puddlewhisper were still deeply asleep, but Lightningkit, tucked by Puddlewhisper’s leg, blinked sleep from her eyes.

“Was I?” Lightningkit mumbled. “Sorry.” She rubbed her face in her nest.

“Are you alright?” Stormkit asked. She sat at the edge of the nest, studying her kin’s dark face.

“Maybe,” Lightningkit said. “I… think I was dreaming about my mom.” Her voice quivered and her whiskers shivered. “I thought Puddlewhisper was her for a moment. I really wish she was here.” Stormkit licked Lightningkit’s shoulder. She gently nuzzled the red molly.

“I wish I could bring her back for you,” Stormkit mumbled. 

“It’s too quiet in here,” Lightningkit gulped, no longer able to keep her sorrow from her words. She pressed into Stormkit with another whimper.

“Puddlewhisper and my dad won’t be too mad if we walk around camp,” Stormkit suggested, pulling her face out of the mess of Lightningkit’s long fur. “Let’s walk around.” She gently nipped Lightningkit’s paw, pulling her out of the nest. Lightningkit swallowed hard. She crawled away from Cobaltkit and Puddlewhisper. Stormkit leaned against Lightningkit, nudging her onwards. The two crept out of the dark nursery and into the camp clearing, dimly lit by a small fire.

It wouldn’t fill the nursery again, or the gaps in either molly’s lives, but it would help a bit. It was the best two kits could do for one another.

(Stormkit: 5, female, kit, know-it-all, loves to eat)

(Waspdawn: 40, male, codekeeper, strict, learner of lore, clue finder)

(Lightningkit: 4, female, kit, self-conscious, always wandering)

Anchovypaw gets lost on patrol.

[Image ID: Anchovypaw is lost.]

---

Anchovypaw was not lost. He just wasn’t sure which part of the forest he was in. When you’re focused on the hunt, the trees all start to look the same! It wasn’t Anchovypaw’s fault. He was trying to feed his Clan! Still, the smell of autumn consumed his path from Halibutdusk and the rest of the hunting patrol. All he could smell were sharp orange leaves and the two dead mice in his jaws.

Anchovypaw set the mice at his paws and called, “Halibutdusk? Splashtuft? Billowpaw?” All he received in return was a flutter of leaves dancing overhead. One landed on top of his head. He chuckled and batted the leaf off. Alright then! If he couldn’t call out to his patrol, he would just go home. The camp was by the ocean; if Anchovypaw kept walking east, he would eventually hit the beach and would find his way back to camp in no time at all. Besides, being alone meant…

Anchovypaw pounced on a fat oak leaf. The crunch sent glee pounding through his pelt. He purred and wiggled his flank, no longer caring about the proper hunter’s crouch. He pounced on a pile of leaves blown into the crook of a thick trunk. He purred harder with each crack and crinkle. He rolled in the leaves, closing his eyes and enjoying the dappled light creating strange shadows on his eyelids.

Anchovypaw rested his head on the leaves and stared out at the mix of green, orange, and red that was the forest of RippleClan. Autumn was by far the best season to wash over the territories. Maybe he could convince Weevilpaw and Wolfpaw to sneak out and jump in the leaves. Except… no. It wasn’t safe to be out alone. No one else had been able to see the ichor covering Downstar as Rapidleaf carried her into camp, mixing with her blood. Not everyone understood what it meant for such danger to stain the walls of camp. Too many remembered the Shardling’s wild yellow eyes tearing into the nursery.

Anchovypaw hurried to his feet, the leaves scattering around him. Halibutdusk was likely getting nervous. No matter how much Anchovypaw wanted to enjoy the beautiful, cool day, he had to get home, for everyone’s sake. Yet as he reached for his mice, something black caught his eye. It had been hidden underneath the leaves at first, but now it absorbed the dappled light in the shape of a blurred paw print. The paw print was made of ichor.

Anchovypaw cleared away the leaves. He slapped and smacked them to the side, using his tail to clear as many as he could. He found three more ichor-stained paw prints under the leaves. They pointed toward the unseen ocean, but were thicker going the other way. The first paw print Anchovypaw found was the farthest along the stranger’s path, with only the slightest stain of ichor telling Anchovypaw what had happened. There was no way to know just where they were going, if they were heading for camp or somewhere else… but Anchovypaw could figure out where the paw prints came from. He had to. For his friends. For his siblings. For Robinkit and his mother.

Picking his mice back up, Anchovypaw traced the paw prints through the leaves and litter. He slowly followed the trail backwards, brushing aside leaves as he went. The trail looped around pines and firs, as though enjoying a humble stroll. But nothing that left paw prints like these could be considered humble.

The ichor pooled at the edge of a dark den dug under the weak roots of a thin tree. Anchovypaw took a deep breath, but could not smell anyone inside the den. All he smelled were herbs. Creeping around the thick paw prints, Anchovypaw peered inside the den.

A mushroom circle filled the interior of the den. Anchovypaw might have thought it natural at first glance, but each mushroom had been plucked, dried, and carefully placed within the den. A strange green poultice filled the holes in between the mushrooms. Anchovypaw couldn’t tell what herbs were used, but it reminded him of chats with Weevilpaw in the medicine den. The black ichor dripped out of the heart of the circle and into the dip near the den’s entrance. Someone made this strange circle, but who? Whoever left the ichor behind, Anchovypaw was the only one who could get rid of it. He would show the clerics, Weevilpaw, and Wolfpaw the den, but first, he had to handle the threat. This time, he’d be the one to defeat it. It was his gift to bring the things to life. It was his responsibility.

Anchovypaw set his mice aside and peered at the puddle of ichor. He could already taste it. It hadn’t been too long since the Shardling stampeded through the nursery, but in that moment, Anchovypaw felt both five moons and five hundred moons old, the tragedy both a day and a thousand days in the past. Anchovypaw dipped his muzzle into the ichor pool and grabbed hold. 

The ichor pulled from the pool like flesh ripped from prey. This time around, Anchovypaw could keep his feet firmly planted as the supernatural goop dragged itself out of the circle, collecting in Anchovypaw’s jaws. He braced himself as the Dark Forest energy manifested in his grasp. It was the size of an apprentice, only slightly smaller than himself. But the size didn’t matter. Anchovypaw would deal with it.

As the manifestation opened its red eyes, forming feline ears and a sharp, swishing tail, Anchovypaw threw it to the grass. The beast was only prey to him; dangerous prey that had to be snuffed out like a dying fire. Anchovypaw dug his teeth into the spirit’s throat. It screeched and gurgled like bubbling mud. Anchovypaw stood on its flank and pushed down, biting harder and harder. The creature clawed at Anchovypaw’s pelt, taking out chunks of brown and white fur. Anchovypaw dug his claws in in return. The ichor pooled between his pads. 

Anchovypaw didn’t let go until the creature dissolved into nothing but dripping goop, leaking like salt water from the apprentice’s bared jaws. All that remained was a small pile of ichor, sloshing like wet clay. Anchovypaw sat beside it, panting and gagging on the taste. StarClan, he hated that part. Whatever energy remained over the strange den, it was gone. 

But how did it get there in the first place?

(Anchovypaw: 9, male, warrior apprentice, playful, curious about StarClan)

Estherfern senses a presence on patrol.

[Image ID: Estherfern sees the ghost of Harvest. Under Estherfern, it says + GUIDANCE FROM STARCLAN: BEWARE (PROPHECY).]

---

Estherfern rarely got moments alone when she lived with the cat-minded human. That den had been so packed and chaotic, she considered anything that didn’t hurt to be a blessing. But when she did get time to herself, when she could quiet her mind, the realms of the spiritual opened to her. That’s what made her so good at connecting with the afterlife of the Clans, how she won the admiration of the other clerics despite her disdain for medicine, how she found security. She was good at it.

So why were her prayers unanswered now?

“This should fix it,” Estherfern grumbled as she rubbed the earthy poultice in the gaps of the mushroom circle. The poultice had dried up the last time Estherfern visited her private den; that was likely why she was met with silence on her last visit. Either that, or her offering had been unsuited for her guest. A little trial and error was to be expected; there was only so much she could ask Terracottafoot about these summoning rituals without raising the odd cleric’s suspicion. The rest of it was pieced together from Troutpool and Honeybuzz’s lessons on channeling StarClan spirits (a ritual Estherfern hoped to see in practice sooner rather than later).

Estherfern rubbed the last of the fresh poultice into the dirt and licked her paw clean. She stepped out of the den and grabbed her new offering; a tuft of Lightningkit’s fur, plucked from her nest while the kit played with her sister. Sure, Estherfern’s earlier attempts had been partial successes, but she had yet to have a full conversation. She had only managed to recreate a pool of that strange ichor that peeled off Rattlepelt’s skin moons ago, but that splashed and rolled deep into the forest before she could do anymore. Perhaps Estherfern shouldn’t have focused on stories of a long-dead cleric, but heeded one of Oilstripe’s stories; a tale of a father who would do anything for his kits. Perhaps this approach, with this offering and Estherfern’s earnesty, would prove successful.

“I call upon the spirit of Hawthornstealer,” Estherfern said as she placed the offering inside the circle, “banished from StarClan for his disastrous pursuit of his offspring’s legacy. Despite your sins, your assistance is required. Return to the Clans, if only for a moment. Speak to us.” Estherfern sat at the edge of the circle and closed her eyes. The summer sun beat onto her spiky pelt and lulled her mind. She kept her ears pricked, waiting for the sound of bubbling mud.

“Estherfern!” The brown cleric jumped, her head smacking into the ceiling of her makeshift den. She turned, slightly dazed. The sun crowned a brown and white figure outside the den. Glowing white eyes glared through Estherfern. Starlight sparkled and shifted across the figure’s pelt. Estherfern had not known her for long, but she couldn’t forget Harvest and the fury which she fought for her kits. A fury that was now turned to Estherfern.

“Beware, Estherfern!” Harvest yowled. Unfelt wind buffeted her pelt. Estherfern’s spine curled. “The spread of spores produces nothing but decay! They grow not in light, but darkness! A path without sight, without sound, heart pushing out of your chest, is a blessing compared to the fate that awaits the rot!”

And with that, she disappeared. The wind stirred Estherfern’s heart in the dead queen’s absence.

(Estherfern: 108, female, cleric, bloodthirsty, great mediator, prophecy seeker)

(Harvest: 58, female, queen, nervous, good fighter)

[cascadeclangen]

Rustfeather and Foxpaw find a loner queen by the border with the Wilds, and takes her back to Cascadeclan’s camp. Her name is Storm Warning.

She dies shortly after kitting that night, leaving her four newborn kits behind. Cascadeclan hasn’t had healthy kits in many moons, and desperately need the new warriors the kits will one day become.

They are given the names Shockkit, Lightningkit, Thunderkit, and Flashkit in honour of their mother.

The kits are given to the only nursing queen in the clan, Frostleaf. Her own kits didn’t survive.

Rainypaws worries over something Storm Warning told him…

[burning-thistles-bt]

A fluffy gift to make up for the heartbreak we're going to put you guys through next chapter :)

Little Sparks

"Upset her mother Spottedpaw won't let her outside the nursery, Lightningkit decides to sneak out all by herself and get into some mischief."

[owlart18]

Warrior cats based on lgbt+ pride flags! Here is Berrykit (Berryspot) based on the bisexual flag, Lightkit (Lightbelly) based on the asexual flag, Lightningkit (Lightningsky) based on the nonbinary flag and Redkit (Redfox) based on the lesbian flag, all are kits of Windclan

Speedpaint

(Commission info here | Pride icon commission info here)

Previous Windclan drawings:

[i-have-no-braincells]

Sapnut update: GRANDBABIESSS‼️‼️‼️‼️

Flickerkit

Rosekit

Lightningkit

And Coniferkit. Boom.

OMG SAPNUT IS ENTERING HIS GRANDPA ARC!!!

[restinginpiecesofpizza]

Update #2:

The sad boy crew had babies!

The adult cats left to right are: Shinedawn, Mountaintuft, and Scorchmoth

The kits left to right are: Lightningkit, Fogkit, Sapkit, and Goldkit.