a thousand pawsteps [open]

The spiky-furred molly hummed as they padded along, their tail raised high with contentment. It had been at least a moon since they had ventured away from the Circle, and at least a moon they had spent traveling to their heart's content. No plan, no direction, just simply exploring. That was one of the many luxuries of life, they had decided, the freedom to explore whenever you wanted. Time was of no consequence. They had all the time in the world.

...Granted, they were only twelve moons old. Probably around fourteen now, if they really counted. The world was a vast expanse, and they, Thistle a'Cloudythorn, were only a small speck on that expanse. That didn't bother them at all, it just meant more room to explore!

It had been a long while since they had scented any other cats. The last time they had, they were around some Uprights' nests and had met some nestpets. The plump cats were chatty and friendly, spilling information about groups of wild cats in the area called "Clans". It sounded similar to their own Circle back home, which simply intrigued Thistle even more. Imagine, other colonies, with their own cultures and ways of life...it was enough to send an excited shiver down their spine!

Thistle weaved across the ground, deftly dodging pebbles and thorny plants as they walked. A foreign yet familiar scent was guiding their nose, one of unfamiliar cats. Who would they meet, and when? The flecked tabby grinned to themself, excited at the prospect. They hadn't even considered the fact that these cats might be dangerous...but if they were, Thistle could handle themself just fine.

A strange molly now stood before them, giving them a very serious look and a nasty threat. Thistle blinked, wide-eyed, then canted their head to one side with an easy-going smile.

"My apologies, friend, I didn't realize I was on claimed territory! To keep things short and sweet, I'm simply a traveler. I mean no harm to you, I'm only passing through. I'll be on my way shortly, if you'll allow it!" Thistle stood their ground, their muscles tense under their thick fur in case this cat wanted to pick a fight. Pale eyes searched the she-cat, curious, wondering if this was simply a front put on for show. The molly before them wasn't very old at all, she couldn't be older than them.

The mottled tabby made no move to approach further, instead sweeping their fluffy tail in the air in a friendly gesture. "My name's Thistle by the way, what's yours?"

Thistle blinked, gray eyes watching idly as a golden tom sauntered over and introduced himself as "Klaus". He stayed several lengths away, keeping his distance, which was a smart thing to do. Judging by his air of importance, he was probably a higher-up, perhaps even the leader. They noticed how "Aoife" deferred to him, but Klaus held still. It...almost seemed like a test.

Their ears flicked, whiskers twitching as they smiled when asked about their home. Aoife continued, warning of aggressive Clan cats in the area from here to...where? What on earth was a "Twolegplace"? Thistle took a seat, curling their tail around their paws. "Well, it's nice to meet you both! As for where I'm from, my home is several sunrises away, beyond the mountains. I appreciate your warning, I've heard of the Clans from other travelers in the area. Although, I have to ask, what is a 'Twolegplace'? I'm not familiar with that!" Their eyes flicked between Aoife and Klaus, their curiosity and mild confusion genuine.