The future's in your paws. Shape it well.Roleplay in a cat Clan of warriors. Based off the Warriors series by Erin Hunter. Takes place in an AU before the cats in the books existed.
Welcome to WCC! Here are our latest announcements:
Activity checks take place on the 1st of the month. If you miss one activity check, make sure you do the next one!
Leaf-fall is finally here, and with it, the promise of colder, crueler, days ahead.
Gatherings take place on the 1st of the month; keep your eyes out for a staff member's post!
Please feel free to hit up any staff member if you have any questions!
He was hungry. His pack was hungry. Everyone was so, so hungry. Game had gone from their perfect little forest and, though they tried to follow where the wildlife went, they seemed to have vanished overnight. The pack elders, those who made the decisions, wanted to wait for the prey to come back. He and his littermate, however, had other plans. They'd only been pups when the little felines came to their forest in droves, their numbers so vast that it seemed as though there was no end to them. They'd only been pups when those cats, with their warm, tasty bodies, filled their bellies during such harsh times. Now, such times were upon the pack again. He was desperate.
Dark eyes moved to the thick-pelted coat of his littermate, who's frame was equally as thin. They were both desperate. Now was the time to strike, then. The wind was in their favor and the teeming mass of felines below was completely oblivious to their presence. Best to move now while they still had the advantage. Collect as many warm bodies as they could so their family might survive to see the next full moon. Lifting his great head, the young wolf's jaws split open in a howl, the signal that it was time to attack. His song carried through the clearing, bouncing off of the trees and echoing every which way. They'd have no idea where he was coming from.
Body shaking with the force of his thunderous snarling, he descended on the helpless creatures with his long fangs bared, black pelt glinting in the remaining traces of moonlight as clouds began to roll in. Tongue lolling from his mouth and heart racing with delight, the young wolf set his sights on the great rock that towered over the clearing and, in particular, the felines perched atop it. The pack leaders. If they took the leaders down, the others would panic and be easier to kill. Maw gaping open, he snapped his jaws shut around the first feline, a fluffy gray one, and delighted at the warm rush of blood on his tongue. Kill, kill, kill! He wanted to end them all!
Wolf 1 used Full Body Rush on Wolfstar, dealing 20 HP and costing 50 EP
It had been so long since her belly had been properly filled. She remembered the feeling distantly, like the faintest echoes carrying over the lake back home. They had come a long way. Her mottled pelt, once beautifully thick and glossy, now looked so faded and dull that she was nearly unrecognizable. She practically had nothing left on her but skin and wiry muscle at this point. She hated it. The elders knew nothing. They wanted the pack to starve, to simply wither away into ash and dust. To fade and be forgotten. Their kin were but a shadow of their former selves. That said, it was no matter. They would be saved whether they liked it or not.
These new lands bore delicious fruit after all. A feast of helpless little kittens milled about aimlessly before her, all but begging to be her dinner. Soon, they feed.
Soon, they prosper.
She waited patiently for her littermate to give the signal, and the hauntingly beautiful howl that finally pierced the veil of night couldn't have come soon enough. Her voice joined his, a grim duet that danced in the wind and thrilled her bones into action. It was time to hunt. Her brother lunged forth, her hot on his heels. Using the full weight of her body, she slammed into a dark grey feline that had been perched near her brother's target, sending them both down into the clearing below.
The blood-thirst had taken her.
They would eat well tonight.
-
[Wolf 2 used Full Body Rush on Leopardstar, dealing 20 damage and costing 50 EP.]
In the lull following her announcement, Acornstar attention was finally drawn to the situation below - raised voices, an argument that she had missed in the focus of knowing what to say. It wasn't hard to recognize one of them - the towering from of Quailprowler was recognizable but she was more surprised to see her facing off against...Why with those sizes, they had to be apprentices, weren't they? Her tail flickered in annoyance, making a mental note to question her personal guard on the behavior. As the rest of the leaders finished their announcements, she stood up - taking in a deep breath to call the Gathering to a close...
But she stopped, movement - large movement - catching her eye. Her gaze locked onto the two shapes just as they came storming into the clearing and headed straight towards the Great Rock. Dogs? Foxes? Somehow, she was more terrified of what she saw as the moonlight bounced off of their silver fur, recalling the terrifying nights those moons ago when she was still the deputy and the Clans had to run for their lives. She tried to call out - but her voice was caught in her throat as the shapes lunged - but not at her but at Wolfstar and Leopardstar. Blood splattered on the Great Rock - the peaceful night in ruins. She didn't know what to do, eyes darting back and forth before she grimaced and spun - launching herself at the wolf attacking the SkyClan leader.
It wasn't easy, making this choice - she wanted to help both but in this instance... She knew anything she could do to prove to Wolfstar that she was on her side, even after their war, was needed. The small leader slashed her claws at the wolf's face, trying to get it to lessen its grip so that the SkyClan leader could slip free. "ThunderClan! Attack - protect the apprentices and elders!" she finally managed to shout, eyes darting around as she prayed that her Clanmates would be fine. There had been a unending stream of these wolves before, were these two just a prelude? Did the others wait in the shadows?
Acornstar used Claw on Wolf 1, dealing 13 damage and costing 5 stamina.
Acornstar: 70/70 HP 195/200 EP (-5)
Wolf 1: 387/400 HP (-13 HP) 550/600 EP
Wolfstar: 50/70 HP 200/200 EP
Badgermask was hanging in the shadows - she didn't care for the Gathering, not even when some sort of spat was started between some cats even as the leaders started their announcements. No, she was only here to support her mother - claws digging into the ground as she huffed as the other leaders spoke. The Gathering was happening fast at least, she would be free to return home - maybe even have time for some hunting before dawn.
As Tigerstar finished, she was pushing herself to her paws to prepare when the wind changed - ruffling her fur and causing her to pause...Just as the large forms bounded from the undergrowth, their attention not on the crowd of cats but instead the leaders. Her eyes narrowed, darting back and forth as she tried to quickly get a grasp on the situation - but as the scent of the foes rushed past her, her whole body froze as her breath caught in her throat.
Her mother's temporary demise as the beasts' fangs. Heatherberry's injury and her father begging them to leave him to die - the terror and despair in her heart as she was forced to run. She couldn't protect him - them - any of them. She took a step back as the scent of blood - both from her memory and freshly spilled, struck her as she bared her fangs as she forced herself to focus. The world seemed to slow even more as she saw the beast throw her mother to the clearing below. "NO!" she yowled, paws moving before she even realized it as she threw herself at the wolf's head - claws hooking to hold her in place long enough to let her teeth sink deep into the beast's ears before she yanked herself away - a trail of blood following her as she took a bit of ear with her. Landing at her mother's side, she arched her back with a hiss - her fear and memories gone as all she could see was the red she had spilled.
Badgermask used Bite on Wolf 2, dealing 13 damage and costing 5 stamina.
The quiet, passive Skyclan deputy had his ears flicking this way and that way at the conversations around him. He'd practically been a white shadow for moons, only existing, not much talking outside of his duties as deputy. The real curse of being abysmally and secretly ancient was that the annoying prattle that others found so important were just... not in the grand scheme of things. He took no interest in the petty squabbles of others. No joy in the fleeting moments where it lasted. He was becoming a rock again, like last time.
A scent on the wind snapped him out of his bored state. He blinked, thinking he might have been mistaken... but another long whiff told him... no. Falconmoon suddenly sprang to life as if he'd been struck by lightning, blue eyes ablaze and fur standing on end. His claws unsheathed and a growl ripped from his throat. His attention went to Wolfstar and his mouth opened to warn her.
There was no need. A shadow sprang from it's underworld of blackness and enclosed it's jaws around his leader. His mother. His muscles bunched beneath him and shot him forward like an ivory arrow, his claws and teeth ready to rend flesh and spill blood. He doubted they'd ever defeat a wolf, but at least he might be able to get it to let go of Wolfstar so they could retreat.
Falconmoon wasn't the fool Bloodstrike was. He had no problem leaving the other clans to their fate. How many had been friends to Skyclan lately anyway? Good riddance. His teeth sunk into the wolf's flesh just behind the corner of it's jaw bone where the fur was less thick in an attempt to threaten the jugular. Of course, with wolf skin being as tough as it was, he'd practically have to chew his way through.
If the giant canid didn't release Wolfstar, then so be it. He'd eat his way through the wolf and tear the jugular that way.
Falconmoon used Bite on Wolf 1, dealing 13 damage and -5EP
Falconmoon 70HP / 195EP (-5EP)
Wolf 1 374HP / 550EP (-13HP)
Snowpaw had tuned out most of the gathering... so when the wolves appeared from nowhere he panicked. He darted this way and that way in his confusion, entirely unsure of what to do in this situation. The apprentice had been fairly peaceful during his apprenticeship, and suddenly all of his training seemed to blow away on the breeze. He sank low, barely keeping from soiling himself from fear.
It wasn't until he saw his father fly at the giant creature and attack that he remembered anything about fighting. That thing had already injured his leader... now it might kill his dad too. Snowpaw forced his legs to move, and everything beyond that was a horrifying, heart stopping blur.
Snowpaw used Claw on Wolf 1, dealing 6 damage and -5EP
Snowpaw 20HP / 55EP (-5EP)
Wolf 1 368HP / 550EP (-6HP)
Sagefeather jumped out of his skin as those... things lurched from the darkness. He would have fled, absolutely... if one hadn't already gripped Leopardstar in it's jaws. Mostly dominated by terror, Sagefeather still had an explosion of anger admist it all at the sight of some creature attacking his leader during a gathering... a time of peace and truce. He bolted forward with a caterwaul, leaped, and tried to bury his claws into the eyes of Leopardstar's attacker.
Sagefeather used Claw on Wolf 2, dealing 11 damage and -5EP
Sagefeather 50HP / 135EP (-5EP)
Wolf 2 376HP / 550EP (-11HP)
Asmodeus had been thoroughly disappointed that he'd come. Not a single interesting thing from any of the clans. What losers. He'd been about to leave when chaos ripped across the gathering and into two of the leaders. He startled, his fur bristled and his eyes widened. Seeing some cats throw themselves at the... steroid dogs... he couldn't help but admire their courage... and pity them for their stupidity.
That being said... Asmodeus never considered himself a genius... and a twinge of jealousy at their bravery helped him find his own dumb courage. The peasants would be bowing to him before the night was done. He charged, directly going for the soft underside of the steroid mutts.
Upon completion of the nasty hit, Asmodeus had a maniacal, smug look on his face. THIS is how you fight, stupid kitties!
Asmodeus used Belly Rake on Wolf 2, SUCCESSFUL! dealing 16 damage and -10EP
At last, it seemed the gathering could be ended, they could all go home to their nests for the night. She glanced down toward her deputy, ready to spring from the great rock and lead Skyclan home...
Falconmoon's fur bristled, and he turned toward her. And that was when the overpowering stench flooded her nostrils. Hauntingly familiar, though it only featured in her nightmares since their cursed escape from the lake. The scent of the cold mountains was overlaid with something doglike, but harsher, unclean. She'd hoped to never see those beasts again, had never wanted to see her clanmates scrambling and fearful as they had the night they had been forced to flee the lake.
Before Wolfstar could move, the beasts were on them. She spun toward the shadow that lunged for her, but massive fangs crushing her midsection squeezed the air from her lungs, a pained gasp escaping her. She was being shaken, the world spinning around her as pain shot through her body. Something snapped within her, her ears rang at the sound of something breaking. Ribs, maybe. The beast was truly massive compared to any of the cats around it.
She was vaguely aware of a russet blur, wolf's blood spattering as claws slashed at it. Acornstar, she realized. The leader she'd thought a coward fought now. Wolfstar wanted to tell her off, tell her to get her warriors out of here. But it seemed like there wasn't going to be any recourse for them tonight.
Their camps... How many beasts were there? With so many cats at the gathering...
A flash of familiar pale fur out of the corner of her eye... No. No. Falconmoon, Snowpaw... They should not have come to fight this thing. She had the lives to spare, they didn't.
Wolfstar struggled in the beast's grip, pain wracking her body as she twisted and tried to sink her own fangs into whatever she could reach. Maybe... Maybe she could buy them time.
Wolfstar used Bite on Wolf 1 for -5 ep, dealing -13 damage.
Wolfstar 50 / 70 hp 195 / 200 ep (200 - 5)
Wolf 1 355 / 400 hp (368 - 13) 550 / 600 ep
---
Honeypaw's fur bristled in horror as the beast grabbed Wolfstar... And her father had immediately lunged at it. And Snowpaw, too. She couldn't just let her family fight whatever that thing was on their own. Without a second glance toward Wasppaw, the fluffy calico darted forward, slashing at the beast.
Honeypaw used Claw on Wolf 1 for -5 ep, dealing -6 damage.
Honeypaw 20 / 20 hp 55 / 60 ep
Wolf 1 349 / 400 hp (355 - 6) 550 / 600 ep
---
The announcements this gathering were short, and that was fine with Briarpatch as she sat with Webpaw. Then chaos broke out. Briarpatch stood frozen as two massive shapes leaped for the leaders on the great rock, green eyes widening with shock. Something about the beasts reminded her of stories she'd heard as a kit -
And one of them had Leopardstar in it's jaws. "Mom! No!" The tortie-tabby exploded forward, everything else forgotten as she charged forward, claws unsheathed. She slashed at the beast, though fear shone in her gaze. She'd been so sick of fighting predators on Shadowclan's own territory, and now these beasts showed up at a gathering? What choice did she have but to defend her family, her clan?
Briarpatch used Claw on Wolf 2 for -5 ep, dealing -10 damage.
Briarpatch 40 / 40 hp 105 / 110 ep (110 - 5)
Wolf 2 340 / 400 hp (350 - 10) 550 / 600 ep
---
Stoneheart's fur lifted, a chill running down her spine. "Stars above... This place is cursed." She hissed, fear gripping her as she stared at the two wolves attacking the leaders. If they fell, the beasts would surely turn on anything around them. Could they even take these things down? She didn't know, but she wasn't about to find out what happened if they didn't try. The wolf that had attacked Wolfstar had quite a few cats on it... But both needed to be taken care of. Stoneheart charged forward, jaws snapping at the wolf's shoulder.
Stoneheart used Bite on Wolf 2 for -5 ep, dealing -13 damage.
Stoneheart 70 / 70 hp 195 / 200 ep (200 - 5)
Wolf 2 327 / 400 hp (340 - 13) 550 / 600 ep
---
Swandive froze at the scent suddenly flooding fourtrees. Familiar... Violent... Foxdung. She remembered that night Riverclan had fled the lake. It seemed the wolves had somehow found their way to the forest as well. "Dark forest take them... Filthy beasts." She muttered. She didn't think she had any choice but to fight... But she wasn't about to help the wolf that the Skyclan and Thunderclan leaders were currently fighting. But if any of those leaders fell, there was no telling who would be next. If they fled, the beasts would surely find them. She'd seen the damage those vicious beasts could do first-paw... And she'd sworn to protect her clan.
With a snarl, the pale Riverclanner bounded forward, claws raking at the flank of one of the wolves.
Swandive used Claw on Wolf 2 for -5 ep, dealing -12 damage.
Swandive 60 / 60 hp 165 / 170 ep
Wolf 2 315 / 400 hp (327 - 12) 550 / 600 ep ---
Cloudjumper stared at the beasts who had lunged for the great rock, momentarily shocked into silence by the sight, fur bristling. What in Starclan's name were those things? She spun, eyes landing on her parents. Nectarflower was hardly capable of fighting... The calico darted toward them. "Mom, we should really get out of here... What are those things?" They had gone for the Skyclan and Shadowclan leaders, it seemed, not anyone in her own clan yet. But they were massive, hulking beasts. The way they'd snapped up the two leaders did not bode well for anyone else in the hollow, she thought.
Nettleweaver still had not found anyone to speak to, a frown tugged at his maw. Tonight would be a boring gathering then. With a sigh, he slid to his belly, listening as keenly as ever to the leaders announcements. While he found everything that was said interesting to him, it was WindClan’s announcements that made his heart beat a little faster and his posture straighten. The question that had been on the tom’s mind all night- Laurelpaw was now Laurelriver. Congratulations were due, whenever he ran into her again. His mind was already racing with what to say and do, but whatever plans he’d been forming were forgotten as a guttural howl rudely interrupted them.
Mismatched eyes snapped open wide as he jumped to his paws, as the wolves trimmed the clearing. A surge of adrenaline shot through his body as the scent of blood hit his nose, followed by the barking of orders and the flashing of pelts. Leopardstar’s voice was not amongst those, and he couldn’t decide if it was a blessing or a curse. As of right now, Nettleweaver was blessed with the ability to do what he wanted consequence free. What he cared about though was his friends, and if they were okay. His paws moved frantically as he rushed about searching for those dearest to him; Quillsplash, Silverhawk, Hedgepaw… At least he didn’t have to worry about Asmodeus, he wasn’t a clan cat. But then again…
Black and white flashed past the tom, heading for the wolves and as the white warrior’s eyes followed the blurred form he realised that he did in fact have to worry about his rogue friend. At least the tom had the sense to attack the mutt with Leopardstar in its jaws, he’d look like quite the hero when he inadvertently saved her from losing a life, allowing her dictatorship to continue. Perhaps Leopardstar would grant Nettleweaver a favour, well, he’d use that to reinstate Silverhawk to his rightful place on the council. He was such a good friend, and clanmate, why did all the old coots in the clan have an issue with him again?
Thoughts of grandeur, if only to see his friends do well, alongside the adrenaline easily drove away the fear that came with charging down a wolf. There were other cats too he recognised running with him, Sagefeather and Briarpatch, and those he did not. Of course, Sagefeather was trying to save the day, that goody four paws would kick the ground Leopardstar walked on if it was more sociably acceptable. Still, it didn’t matter, Leopardstar would see he was better in this moment and he would reap the rewards for it. As Nettleweaver ascended the Great Rock, his paws began to itch. Not only from anticipation of the fight ahead, but a feeling of… He couldn’t place it, the feeling was so odd. This rock was so old, it had been here an eternity, had allowed every leader that had tread this forest to rest on its back, had watched over every gathering. This rock held more secrets than anywhere else in this forest, it was exhilarating and made him giddy to just think about that. And now he was going to cement himself into what the rock held, as someone worthy, someone to be remembered, someone to be spoke about.
Nettleweaver swallowed, if he wanted to be remembered forever he had to make sure as many people survived as possible, especially his friends. He also had to make sure he survived, after all he did want to relish in the aftermath with his friends, that was the whole point of this. Asmodeus made contact with the wolf first, pulling off a move that was not easily done, and his grin said he knew that as much. It was almost like he was challenging the bobtailed cat, and Nettleweaver liked their games, even if he made most of them up in his head. With a hiss, he feinted, dropping beneath the wolf and slashing with his claws, blood splattering his pristine pelt. He came up beside Asmodeus with a grin just as smug as his. His tongue flicked out cleaning his muzzle of crimson. “I bet you don’t want a rematch next time we run into each other,” he crooned his eyes glinting playfully despite the circumstances “I think I’d ruin your reputation this time round, perhaps that a sign to join ShadowClan- you wouldn’t have to worry about that anymore. That’s also our leader you just risked your hide for…” Nettleweaver lowered his voice, but given the star things were in he doubted the spotted leader was listening “… She has a thing for rogues, you’d get in easy. Life would be easier too… I could teach you proper eating manners. Is that not a little tempting?”
Nettleweaver used Belly Rake on Wolf 2! Dealing -18 HP and costing -15 EP
Nettleweaver
60/60 HP 155/170 EP (-15 EP)
Wolf 2
297/400 HP (-18 HP) 550/600 EP
Viperpaw wasn’t even allowed to gloat as the gathering erupted into chaos. As she watched the wolves tear into the leaders, her own fear scent became pungent, but she wasn’t frightened for herself. No, on the outskirts she was from the beasts, she could easily escape. ”My Papa is with those beasts!” her voice came out almost kittish. For the briefest of moments the golden molly’s feud with the cat beside her was forgotten, she’d never been this vulnerable before, never allowed this side of her to show through the show of arrogance and righteousness she used as a fallace. ”Y-your mother is there too, Creamlily, we have to do something. I won’t sit here while they die, come with me, get up.” Viperpaw’s voice shook with emotion, ears flat against her skull. She hated feeling like helpless, the she-cat growled and shook her head, returning to her usual pompous matter. ”I’m not asking for help because I like you, or because I think you’re a good warrior by the way, I’d just prefer it if the wolves ate you instead of my father. And if you don’t get up now I’ll know everything I’ve said to your face is true, and I’d win.” If she knew Creamlily, which for once she was glad she did, hopefully that would spur the cream molly into action so she didn’t wait as she charged down the slight dip towards the beasts.
The apprentice flung herself onto the creature’s back, claws and teeth snagging in its fur as she grappled for purchase. Blood filled her mouth, but that was fine. It meant she was doing her job. The wolf bucked ferociously trying to dislodge her, but Viperpaw only dug her claws in deeper and bit with more force. ”Papa, you have to take WindClan and run C-Creamlily and I we can hold them off, please, you’re the leader Papa you have to keep our clanmates safe no matter what.” Was she crying? She couldn’t tell if her voice was thick and distorted from the mouthful of fur or the tightness of her throat. She couldn’t tell if her face was red from the mutt’s blood or her own tears. She couldn’t tell if her eyes were screwed shut to avoid looking at Tigerstar or to avoid anymore tears from falling.
Viperpaw realised then too that she’d volunteered Creamlily to die with her. She hadn’t meant to, she didn’t actually want her to die. Creamlily was her clanmate, she wanted her safe, unfortunately. But even more unfortunately, the insufferable she-cat was always by her side, and even now as she went toe to toe with the wolves, as her life flashed before her eyes, she wanted Creamlily here with her because that’s where she always was. How strange to find comfort in something you loathe, to want to die with somebody that you hate. Having admitted out loud that she wanted the warrior by her side, it suddenly felt like she didn’t actually hate her at all, and that she hated even more than she did Creamlily.
Viperpaw used Bite on Wolf 1! Dealing -6 HP and costing -5 EP! Surprise Attack is active dealing an additional -3 HP and costing an additional -10 EP!
Viperpaw 20/20 HP 45/60 EP (-10 EP + -5 EP)
Wolf 1
340/400 HP (-3 HP + -6 HP) 550/600 EP
Clovermottle’s blood went cold as she recognised those howls. No, not again… As the memories were drawn back, the tortoishell began to hack, coughing violently, her lungs squeezing as what remained of the illness from the lakes reared its head. This was not good. Along with the cough and the wave of nausea and exhaustion came memories of Perchstar barking orders. Wide, scared eyes looked for Poppystar, but she couldn’t find her friend amongst the mass of cats on the Great Rock, nor could she see Cindersky. Her heart sank. RiverClan was without aim, she knew these monsters, they couldn’t fight them, they’d be wiped out. And Poppystar and Cindersky were there for that, they’d know the truth too.
“RiverClan!” her voice was as loud as she could manage with her feeble croak and it only brought on more coughing and wheezing. “Leave!… Our kits, Elders… We must go back to camp, we need… Need to protect the defenceless!” Her breath was coming up short, and black spots were forming in her vision. This is what Poppustar and Cindersky want, they want us to be safe. They’ll understand. The queen teetered unsteadily as she moved quickly, urging RiverClan cats to leave. She had no authority, but this… RiverClan had to survive, had to remain strong, needed to protect its past and its future. “Go back home!” Run!” she was so tired. Clovermottle watched as cats ran past her, or towards the wolves, but deep down she knew none of these options were viable for her, the illness had taken that from her. She was struggling to even walk now, fighting or running would be a miracle. All she could do was pray to StarClan that those that fled survived and that maybe the wolves would get bored and full from all the mousebrains that were aimlessly fighting them. She just had to hope and pray.
Nettleweaver is fighting Wolf 2 (updated his stats what a dumbo) Viperpaw is fighting Wolf 1 Clovermottle is ushering RiveeClan to leave
The Gathering was proving to be another peaceful one, even when the air atop the Great Rock was thick from the atmosphere waving off of Wolfstar every time Poppystar met her gaze. Tigerstar had just finished his own announcements, signaling that the Gathering could soon come to a close, when everything erupted.
Blood hit Poppystar’s pale white fur before her brain registered the scent that had permeated the valley. Her eyes widened as she watched the alrge body of Wolfstar get pulled up as though she were no bigger than a kit in a queen’s mouth. A scream pushed up into her throat but it didn’t quite give way. She could only manage a strangled gasp of, “Wolfstar-!”
She heard Acornstar call to her clan and that gave her enough sense to do the same. Poppystar looked out at the crowd as cats began to scream and react to the attack. She did not immediately see Cindersky with the other deputies and she wondered where she had gone. She had no time to let her eyes search, so she only let her voice bellow to the masses.
“RiverClan! Elders, queens, and apprentices, return to camp. Take a couple of warriors to escort you safely. Cindersky, make sure they keep safe. Pigeonpounce—stay out of the fight but remain to help the injured. Any other capable warriors, attack!”
Her orders was given and she could not hesitate another moment. Poppystar looked back at the wolf that still had Wolfstar in its jaws. She lunged forward and bit down onto its foreleg as tight as her jaw could manage. Release her!
Poppystar attacked Wolf 1 with Bite, dealing 13 damage and costing 5 EP.
Pineblossom snapped out of her clouded thoughts when growls and screams filled the air. She watched as a wolf materialized from the darkness and suddenly Leopardstar was in its jaws. Pineblossom moved on her own without another moment of thought, just as others in her clan did. She was alongside Badgermask and dug her claws deeply into the wolf’s flank, causing blood to flow. “Leopardstar!” she called, hoping to get a response from her leader and assure that she still breathed.
Pineblossom used Claw on Wolf 2, dealing 13 damage and costing 5 EP.
Willowwisp did not expect something of this magnitude to hit the Gathering without warning. She jumped to her paws from where she and Rookflight lounged. She moved first, sparing only a brief glance at Rookflight. As she rushed to Poppystar’s call, she moved past Pigeonpounce and Scarletflare. She looked to her fellow warrior and called, “Come, we have to help!”
She did not wait to see if he would follow. She jumped up and attacked the same beast that her aunt had and her claws teared through its pelt.
Willowwisp attacked Wolf 1 with Claw, dealing 13 damage and costing 5 EP.
Larkspring rose to his feet immediately when he saw the wolves enter the Gathering. His mind immediately sprang to the last time he saw these beasts: Cindersky getting snagged and her tail being torn off in one fell swoop. He stood in front of Cindersky as though to put himself between her and the beasts up on the rock.
“You heard Poppystar. She didn’t tell you to engage,” he told her and he looked upon her with grave seriousness. “Do not go throwing yourself into danger again. We are to help others get back safely.”
Larkspring is with Cindersky and trying to keep her from getting annihilated by wolves again.
Time seemed to stop as a horrible howl rang out across the clearing. Smokeytimber froze. The noise was wretched, spine-chilling; dogs? Not again. The last time dogs had invaded like this, he'd been but a kit -
His heart dropped. The figures that emerged from the shadows... they were very much not dogs. Canine, yes, but much larger, much more powerful. Even their song carried more malice. Fear burned deep in his belly, and he instinctively shrunk back - until he realized who they were targeting. One had its jaws... one had its jaws wrapped around... "Leopardstar!" The scream that tore from his lips was animalistic, unbecoming, and full of rage. They were going after Leopardstar, they were going after his own mother - his mama. He couldn't lose her like he'd lost his father. He'd never even gotten to meet Echomist, and he sure as StarClan couldn't lose his mother.
He flew. His form flashed beside his sister as they moved to protect their mother. They moved as two shadows, their cries and attacks almost simultaneous. His heart raced. Adrenaline blazed beneath his pelt, lighting his blood on fire. They couldn't have her, they couldn't have her, they couldn't...
The primal rage and fear that fueled him propelled him forward, and he flung himself at the snarling beast without another thought. He couldn't lose her, he didn't care how many lives she had left, he couldn't watch her die right in front of him, even if he'd given his all, he'd never forgive himself, he - he was supposed to protect his family. And so far he hadn't done a very good job. Cardinalpaw had gone missing, and every time Briarpatch and Webpaw left camp he was riddled with the worst anxiety that she would never come back, and...
He sailed through the air, and landed square on the beast's shoulders. He should slit its throat. He should finish it. But its fur was so thick, he knew he couldn't end this quite so easily. Smokeytimber released a howl of his own, a terrible scream. Then he bent down and tore savagely at the creature's neck. His jaws sank into its thick fur, then its skin; as soon as he felt his fangs puncture that flesh, he ripped his head away. Blood sprayed him as the chunk of flesh tore away between his teeth.
Smokeytimber used Bite on Wolf 2, dealing 11 damage and costing 5 EP!
Foxpaw smiled back at Ryepaw. That lopsided grin melted something within him, and he felt his sullen attitude slip away - it was so unlike him, anyway. He watched with a dull, content gaze as the leaders made their announcements. No, there was nothing to wake Ryepaw for. This Gathering had been a bore just like the last one he'd attended. Maybe I'll stop attending these things. They're always a waste of time. He could be back at camp, napping or sorting his bugs, but no...
A shrill noise rose broke the peaceful night around them. Foxpaw's attention snapped toward the front of the Gathering place. There, on the Great Rock, huge creatures emerged from the shadows, their pelts rippling despite their thin forms. They were giant. He'd never seen anything like it before. His pale gaze widened in fear, his short fur bushing out until he was twice his size. His claws shredded the ground beneath him. Blood began to stain the Great Rock, cats and wolves alike screaming in fear and rage. He shrank, and began to tremble.
Foxpaw had never been in a real fight before. He'd only screwed around with Ryepaw in a stupid 'spar'. This wasn't... they couldn't... If Ryepaw hadn't already been startled awake, Foxpaw needed to wake him. Now.
A shaking paw reached out, jostled his friend's snoozing form. "Rye, Rye, please wake up, please -" Foxpaw tried to swallow their fear, but their voice - and their entire body - were both shaking like leaves. There was an edge of assertiveness in their voice as they spoke again. "We need to get out of here. Now." They pushed him forward, then whirled around, ready to run and not stop until they were so far away from the forest territory that they never had to think about what they'd seen again.
SUNPAW."you keep begging for forgiveness, but you don't think you've done wrong." she/her - windclan apprentice- nectar x kestrel.
Sunpaw's eyes narrowed as the beasts emerged. They immediately went for the leaders - a smart move, she had to admit, but it was decidedly bad for the Clan cats. Sunpaw couldn't let her family get hurt. She bristled. The scent of blood hung heavy in the air, its sharp tang bathing her tongue. Her head whipped around. Where was her mom? "Mama? Go." Her voice mimicked Cloudjumper, even as she cast a sidelong glance at her sister. She'd always respected her, thinking they were of the same spirit, but her words didn't sit right. 'We' need to leave? Did Cloudjumper really mean to imply she would flee as well? "Coward." She muttered under her breath. It wasn't meant to reach her sister's ears. The beasts were frightening; perhaps Cloudjumper was smart to leave, but it was still cowardly.
"Moonpaw. You go too. Make sure mom is safe." Nectarflower couldn't take care of herself. She was injured. Retired. She needed to leave, and she needed to be escorted. She shouldn't have come here. Sunpaw's claws dug into the ground beneath her. expected her father to stay behind and fight, but someone needed to go with Nectarflower, and Moonpaw was equally in danger. Sunpaw could take care of herself. She hated to admit it, but... Moonpaw couldn't.
They weren't attacking Tigerstar - or any WindClan cats yet. That was good. Sunpaw was torn; she didn't respect Tigerstar much, but she could certainly get in her Clan's good graces if she defended him. Even if he didn't deserve it. As for the other leaders... it would benefit WindClan more if they were hurt, she thought, but... WindClan probably couldn't take the beasts on alone. She hated to admit it, but they needed the other Clans' right now, and so she found her feet and sprinted toward the battle.
The promise of blood was enthralling anyway. As she neared the mass entanglement of cats and wolves, her lip curled. The female wolf's pelt was stained with blood, and her ear was torn. More cats seemed to surround her. The other wolf... he seemed mostly unscathed, though three of the leaders were facing off against him already. She made her decision in a second, and sprung forward at the healthier wolf - noticing Viperpaw there in the thick of it, too. So she does have guts. Sunpaw had to admit she was a bit impressed.
The tortoiseshell turned back to the wolf. Eaglefly had taught her to exhaust her opponent, to dart in and out, but she could already see a good place to attack - go for the eyes. Sunpaw lashed out with her claws, and they glinted in the moonlight as they slashed at the snarling beast. Blood spattered her fur as she made contact, and her pelt burned with satisfaction as she raked its eyes. Take that, foxbreath.
Sunpaw used Claw on Wolf 1, dealing 6 damage and costing 5 EP!
Sunpaw 20 / 20 HP 55 / 60 EP (-5 EP)
Wolf 1 308 / 400 HP (-6 HP) 550 / 600 EP
Oatfluff and Nightowl's reactions will be posted later.
Chaos was upon them in an instant, sudden and unexpected and accompanied by clouds rolling in overhead; and the ShadowClan leader barely had enough time to mutter a curse to her ancestors before the wolf was upon her. She stood on her own, tonight; the last time she'd faced the threat of wolves it had been with Echomist standing steady at her side, and that night had devastated her family.
More curses followed, fighting off the sting of pain as the wolf's massive form slammed into her comparatively slender frame; sending them both tumbling from the Great Rock into the crowd below. Falling from the rock, falling from grace, she had half a mind to call it some twisted form of poetry; she knew as well as anyone that she had never deserved to stand atop it, though she had done so for seasons now.
She was thinking through strategies in her mind when something struck her--or rather, when something struck the wolf.
She wasn't alone. Not truly. Badgermask was there, beating back the wolf with the skill and fury she'd learned from a lifetime of ShadowClan hardships; just as she had been the last time. Briarpatch and Smokeytimber. Pineblossom. Sagefeather and Nettleweaver, alongside SkyClan and RiverClan cats whose names she didn't know.
The leader took a deep breath, and then spoke; her voice echoing through the clearing even without the added height of the rock. "This forest is our home. Fleeing now won't save us; if we don't strike them down where they stand, they will come back. I will not tell my peers how to lead their Clans, and I will not force my warriors to stay if they should choose to run; but I will remain to defend my home."
And unless StarClan themselves chooses now to strike me down, I will survive. I may not deserve my place, but it has become my place nonetheless.
And then, finally recovering from how winded that blow had left her, she charged forward in a flurry of claws and teeth; all the fury she'd learned from growing up in a starless marsh, under the watchful glare of Dark Forest warriors. A strategy that could be defined as raw, unfiltered anger.
Leopardstar used Claw on Wolf 2, dealing 13 damage and costing 5 EP!
Wolf 2 258/400 HP (-13 HP) 550/600 EP
Leopardstar 50/70 HP 195/200 EP (-5)
the gods can judge me when i'm dead||code (c) kieer
you know no one’s perfect
The wolves arrived so suddenly; knocking leaders from the Great Rock and sending her own respected superior into the fray. Acornstar shouted orders, and she was happy to comply; chasing nearby apprentices toward the edge of the clearing before joining her leader in the assault; teeth sinking into one massive paw.
"Acornstar, I mean no disrespect; but this isn't a fight you can win on your own. I would be honored if you would allow me to stand at your side."
Nightdancer used Bite on Wolf 1, dealing 13 damage and costing 5 EP!
This was why Mistflower avoided Gatherings. They invited chaos and disorder and danger; bloodshed and violence she'd rather turn her back on and never see again.
Once she'd had a moment to collect herself and catch her breath, she leapt silently after her sister.
Mistflower used Claw on Wolf 2, dealing 11 damage and costing 5 EP!
Lightningbreeze's relaxing evening wasn't meant to last. She caught the clouds rolling in before the chaos began, watching the sky as much as the leaders offering their announcements. But the splatter of blood and violence that sent two of the leaders--Wolfstar among them--crashing to the floor was impossible to miss; and seeing some of her Clanmates veer in the other direction, she moved to her leader's aid, sinking her teeth into the wolf's leg.
"I'm here to help, Wolfstar!"
Lightningbreeze used Bite on Wolf 1, costing 5 EP!
It was sudden, and unexpected, and Scarletflare froze. The howling, the blood splattered across the Great Rock; the chaos that erupted so suddenly throughout the clearing. He was stuck to Pigeonpounce's side, an instinct that wouldn't let him take a single step in any direction, when Poppystar's voice echoed through the clearing.
Pigeonpounce—stay out of the fight but remain to help the injured. Any other capable warriors, attack!
He wondered if that was him, now; if he could be counted as capable after all his cowardice. He glanced to her, recalling that night in the storm with painful clarity. He had failed her then: he promised that she wouldn't be hurt, and she was, despite his best efforts.
"Everything will be fine," he promised, a soft and apologetic whisper low enough that no one else could hear. "We'll both be okay, this time. Promise."
Idly, he wondered how many more times he would fail her before finally he learned his lesson.
And then he wondered who he was trying to convince in the first place, even as he forced himself forward, fear coursing through his veins like water coursed through the river. But he had made a promise, and it was one he intended to keep; even when he couldn't disobey a direct order from his leader, not with the safety of his Clanmates--of Pigeonpounce herself--at stake.
Willowwisp called to him as she bounded past, and he strived to match her pace, despite the way every blink seemed to bring him back to the storm and the lake; the way the forest seemed to be drowning in blood for a split second each time he opened his eyes again.
"I'm here, Poppystar."
Despite himself, his voice was steady. He could only hope his paws would be, too.
Scarletflare used Claw on Wolf 1, dealing 8 damage and costing 5 EP!
Nectarflower"Once again, I'm stuck here just counting all these stars" -T5 Retired Permaqueen-
⥆🩵⥅
Nectarflower cast her gaze around the clearing, feeling both pleased and a little concerned when she noticed Cloudjumper sitting calmly adjacent to her and Kestrelchirp. As much as she loved her daughter, she would love it even more if she stepped out of her comfort zone and mingled with some of the other clan cats. It could be delightfully surprising, putting faces to names and getting to know someone from beyond WindClan's small portion of the forest. Regardless, she turned away and nuzzled her mate lovingly, a purr rumbling in her chest. "Thank you, I wouldn't want to miss out on any more drama." At least, not if it was happening right in front of her nose. Though, despite their joking, the gathering seemed to be going rather smoothly this moon.
There were a few bickering cats here and there but, all in all, it was calm. The leaders, even, seemed to have little to report because, before long, they were giving their announcements. The tortoiseshell queen half-listened as she groomed Kestrelchirp's back calmly, her paws tucked neatly beneath her body. She'd almost forgotten how nice it could be to simply exist like this - with no kits to watch after or chores to tend to. A strangely familiar song that reminded her of terror and death echoed through the clearing and, having been moments from dozing off, Nectarflower opened her eyes to see that, within moments, chaos had erupted. A fine mist of blood settled on the surface of the Great Rock as two wolves, both thin, reigned their fury upon whichever cat was unfortunate enough to have drawn their attention.
Wolfstar was snapped up by one and, with her body a blur, Leopardstar sailed to the ground - sent flying by the other wolf. Instantly, the clearing exploded into action as cats rushed to and fro - some fleeing and others fighting. She looked to Cloudjumper with a horrified look and shook her head, trying to unfreeze her body and mind from the terror that had her in its clutches. She stammered for a few moments as Cloudjumper stared at her, trembling. "Wolves." She choked out after a moment. "They found us." Shaking like a leaf, the she-cat pressed herself against Kestrelchirp and tried to pull herself together. "Fr-from the lake. Kes, they found us again! Wh-What are we going to to!?" The dogs that had attacked her a few ago were nothing like the wolves...they were better. These wolves were wild and far more dangerous. Far more - Sunpaw? What was she doing. What was she implying?
Her daughter's words echoed in her ears for several moments and she stared at her, unable to speak for a moment. Did she...not intend to go with them? Before she could talk Sunpaw out of it, she was gone - out of sight among the thrashing crowd of cats. "SUNPAW!" She screamed, voice wavering. "COME BACK! SUNPAW!!!" Throat raw, Nectarflower thrust herself to her paws and raced after Sunpaw, ignoring her terror or the screaming pain in her leg. Legs quaking, the tortoiseshell queen spun in circles until, finally, her gaze landed on Sunpaw's pelt. She couldn't possibly leave. Not when even one of her kits were in danger. If any cat were going to die to these mosnters, it would be her, not one of her children. They still had so much to see and experience. She'd loved, borne kits, and seen the world. She'd lived long enough.
Snarling more ferociously than she had since retiring to the nursery, Nectarflower threw herself at the beast that had Wolfstar in its jaws, her teeth flashing in the moonlight. Fur bushed up to make herself appear bigger than she really was, she bared her teeth and slashed her claws across its pelt, scouring red marks across its flank. Then, before it could turn and snap at her, she darted out of the way again and gasped as her leg gave out beneath her, sending her sprawling to the ground. Luckily, the wolf was too preoccupied to notice, but Nectarflower pushed herself to her paws regardless and glared at it with a deep, rumbling growl.
(Nectarflower used Claw on Wolf 1, dealing 13 HP at the cost of 5 EP.)
Nectarflower: 70/70 HP (-5) 195/200 EP
Wolf 1: (-13) 263/400 HP 550/600 EP
Hemlockfox"Act like I don't need your love and you call my bluff" -T4 Hybrid MC-
⥊🩸⥋
Finally, Silverhawk's familiar pelt caught the medicine cat's eye and, with a flick of his tail, Hemlockfox settled a cool look on Silverhawk as they came face to face with each other. His nose crinkled slightly at the sight of the ShadowClanner and he looked him up and down for a moment as silence settled between them like a thick mist. He looked around Silverhawk for a moment, hoping to see Bubblebeam lurking somewhere behind him, but alas, the she-cat was nowhere to be seen. It was for the best. She would likely have been uncomfortable if she were present for this conversation. Of course, reprimanding Silverhawk could wait until he'd actually confirmed his sister had left SkyClan to be by his side in ShadowClan. "Evening." He meowed eventually, his tone somehow lacking the distain he thought he'd feel.
Still, something about the way Silverhawk spoke simply rubbed him the wrong way. Did he think he'd won just because Bubblebeam had chosen him? Just because she'd chosen him over her own flesh and blood? Theoretically chosen him, anyway. Keeping in mind that all might not yet be lost, Hemlockfox forced himself to remain calm as he observed the warrior before him. "Is Bubblebeam with you?" It was a simple question, technically, but one which held two sides to it. He wanted to know two things - if his sister was here tonight and if she was indeed in ShadowClan as she'd said she would be.
Though, before Silverhawk had a chance to respond, commotion from atop the Great Rock snagged the medicine cat's attention. Hackles raised, Hemlockfox spun to stare at the scene with his jaws agape, his paws prickling as two wolves descended on Wolfstar and Leopardstar. It happened so fast - in the span of a few seconds - that by the time he realized what was happening, Leopardstar's body had hit the ground with a sickening thump. Hemlockfox winced and cast his attention upwards once more, his entire pelt bristling at the sight of Wolfstar, his grandmother, his rock, clutched between the scrawny beast's teeth. Without giving a second thought to the danger, the brown and white tom thrust his way through the panicking mess of cats towards Wolfstar, his eyes alight with panic. He couldn't lose her too! He had to get to her, no matter what!
(Hemlockfox is trying to get to Wolfstar.)
Moonpaw"I've learned love is like a brick, you can build a house or sink a dead body with it" -Apprentice-
⭒✧ ✧⭒
Moonpaw grinned to herself at Ryepaw's remark and slanted a playful smirk his way as he padded past and settled down. See, now there was a cat she could agree with. Stars. Why weren't they friends already? She eyed him for a moment as Foxpaw made themself comfy at the tom's side, her whiskers twitching. Laurelriver's voice drew her attention back eventually, though, and the silver apprentice slowly angled her head to look back at her friend, brows raised. "talk t'other cats." She echoed uncertainly after a moment, eyes suddenly distant once more as Wolfpaw's visage invaded her mind. That's right. She was supposed to introduce him and Falconpaw tonight.
Well, that would be hard to do considering Tigerstar hadn't picked Falconpaw for the gathering party tonight. And, upon scanning the clearing, it seemed as though Leopardstar hadn't decided to bring Wolfpaw either. A small coil on tension in Moonpaw's chest snapped and she breathed a short sigh of relief. She was glad that particular meeting would have to wait for another gathering. Suddenly, Sunpaw butt in with that typical teasing tone of her's and Moonpaw snapped to attention, her eyes sharp as she stared at her sister. "no!" She meowed swiftly, ears slanted back. Then, with a calming breath, she amended herself. "i'd just ratha be sleepin."
Ugh. Why was everyone on her tail today? Leopardwind, too, approached, and Moonpaw could no longer hide her growing irritation. Though, as much as she wanted to snap at the warrior, she couldn't bring herself to. Not when he had a reason to be invested in looking for their missing clanmates. She shrugged and avoided his gaze, humming noncommittally. They should look for them, but the reality was that those who were gone? They were probably gone for good. As the last leader's words faded, Moonpaw glanced up and realized that she'd completely forgotten to pay attention to the announcements...again. Oops. Oh well. Nothing to do now but go home, she supposed.
Pleased with how quickly the gathering had resolved, Moonpaw stared eagerly at Tigerstar, simply waiting for the order to leave. However, movement from the base of the Great Rock caught her attention. SkyClan's deputy, fur bristling, lifted his head to say something to the leaders when, all too suddenly, the quiet night was ripped asunder. Fear-scent and metallic blood filled the clearing in an instant and Moonpaw watched with abject horror as two great beasts descended on the five cats atop the Great Rock. She froze, green eyes trailing to Nectarflower, Kestrelchirp, and Cloudjumper, who sat some distance away. Everything around her felt so slow - even as her heart raced within her chest like a terrified rabbit. What about her mother?
Should they run? Should they cut their losses and run? With a whimper, Moonpaw inched backwards, wishing that Wolfpaw was here to save her like he had all those moons ago. However, at the sight of her family racing into the fray, Moonpaw jolted into action, feeling as though she'd been struck by lightning. "momma! sunpaw!" Moving faster than she could ever recall moving before, Moonpaw weaved between the cats swarming around the beasts and tossed herself towards the nearest one, eyes wild with fright.
Where was her family!? She didn't want them to fight alone, but she couldn't see them anywhere. Still, her eyes rolled with terror as she looked for an opening and, when one presented itself, she snapped at the canine's heel with her teeth, grimacing from the tang of blood on her tongue as she drew back into the crowd, her body vibrating with nervous energy.
(Moonpaw used Bite on Wolf 2, dealing 6 HP at the cost of 5 EP.)
Moonpaw: 20/20 HP 60/60 EP
Wolf 2: (-6) 241/400 HP 550/600 EP
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[Nectarflower] T5 WC Permaqueen
[Hemlockfox] T4 WC Hybrid Medicine Cat
[Wiggleworm] T3 TC Warrior
[Firetreader] T1 SkC Warrior
[Lykaios] T1 Rogue
[Moonpaw] WC Apprentice
Karuna Site Moderator
Characters : [L]Lilyvalley, [E]Elmstorm, [A]Addercrest, [T]Thistledown Clan/Rank : [L]ShadowClan T5 Warrior, [E]RiverClan T2 Warrior, [A]ThunderClan T2 Warrior, [T]WindClan T2 Warrior Number of posts : 2524 Gender : Any Pronouns Age : 22
Lilyvalley was just about ready to leave. Unless she had missed a leader, she was sure that the gathering was over.
But a scent on the breeze had her fur standing on end. Dogs? Here? With so many cats around, those should be easy to handle...
So why was the fear scent growing so strong around her?
That was when she heard the haunting howls, seeming to surround her. Then a flash of silver, as two canines descended upon the leaders. Those were no dogs. Those were beasts that Lilyvalley had only heard about in stories.
Wolves.
Chaos seemed to descend as the cats charged at the creatures, Lilyvalley finding her own paws following suit. Leopardstar was up there. That was her brother's mate, and stars forbid she let anything happen to her while she was still standing. Echomist wasn't here to protect Leopardstar anymore, so his sister would have to do.
With a yowl, she latched on to the wolf, digging her teeth into it's retched pelt.
Lilyvalley used bite, dealing 13 damage and costing 5 EP
Adderpaw turned her head as she felt her mother get up beside her, an argument breaking out. She was about to speak up, because how dare these WindClan cats talk to her that way!
Then it felt as if the world stood still.
She could smell the fear scent in the air, overwhelming her.
She looked to Quailprowler, unsure of what to do now. What was happening?
Then they came. Two giant beasts charging the leaders.
Gekala strike me down if you think I am not going to fight.
Adderpaw was a lot of things, but a coward she was not. With claws outstretched, she lunged at one of the wolves, determined to fight alongside her Clan.
Adderpaw has used Claw, dealing 6 damage and costing 5 EP
Moldpaw, sweet Moldpaw, seemed to have no idea just what was happening. But he was finding it was really hard to stay mad when his sister was being so innocent, if a little clueless.
Thistlepaw was just about to usher her away when the howls split the air. Two giant canines lunged for the leaders on the rock. His first thought was of Tigerstar. His father was on that rock.
Then he thought of the she-cat behind him. As much as it hurt to leave his father, Tigerstar had 9 lives. Moldpaw had 1.
"Stay behind me. We're going to get out of here."
He looked around desperately, for both a break in the chaos and the rest of his littermates. He could feel his heart drop watching Viperpaw charge the rock. "Viperpaw! We need to go, now! Before you get yourself killed!"
He raised his head in a desperate attempt to call to the rest. "Foxpaw! Leopardwind! We need to get out of here!"
Stars, please don't let him lose anyone tonight.
Thistlepaw is trying to get his family to safety.
Now I'm slippin' through the cracks of your cold embrace
Well--Larchbreeze shouldn't have been thinking about how boring Gatherings always were, because it seemed that the stars took it upon themselves to prove him wrong. No sooner had he turned to wave his tail in a friendly "hello" to Oatbreeze and opened his mouth to speak than a horrible shadow cast itself over the clearing, and snarls and screams filled the air. He hadn't been alive during the journey to the lake--but even he could recognize that those beasts were far too large to be ordinary dogs. Dogs were bad enough! How could they be larger? He'd thought the wolves were just exaggerated elders' tales to scare him into behaving. The WindClan warrior's hackles raised, fur standing on end. "Stay safe, Oat," he urged his friend, before darting through the crowd with one singular thought on his mind. One cat he had to find. She'd already been injured, no way was he going to let her get hurt again, not when he was strong and capable now.
Thankfully, it didn't take too long to find Nectarflower. She looked shaken and alarmed, but thankfully unhurt, and her mate was with her--but before he could say anything, she leapt forward to join the fight. Larchbreeze's eyes opened wide with panic. "What are you doing?!" he yowled. With characteristic speed, he raced after her, streaming like an orange bolt through the confused crowd of cats. Several had teamed up on each wolf, but it didn't look like they were accomplishing much. Nectarflower was injured! She was crippled! What did she think she was doing, running into the fight like this?! What a fool! If anything else happened to her, he'd, he'd--! Well, he didn't know what he would do, so he wasn't going to let it happen! Larchbreeze darted forward, shoving himself between the enormous beastly form and his former mentor. Golden eyes glimmered with a mixture of concern and outrage as he met her wild gaze. "Nectarflower! Get away from here! Get back to camp--take your kits with you!" Stars, where was her good-for-nothing mate? The wolf moved beside him, and so he lashed out with claws, trying to keep it from turning in this direction. Trying to keep it from thinking about dropping whatever was in its mouth and eating his mother--no--his mentor instead. Wrong word, but he didn't have time to think about that now. "I'm not going to let you get hurt again!"
Larchbreeze used Claw on Wolf #1, dealing 11 damage and costing 5 EP.
✧⭒
