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Post by Cosmic Kitties on May 12, 2023 23:31:14 GMT -6
[smear:#a014ef]HISTORY[/smear:#c178a3:0]
[smear:#a014ef] The Clans began as a singular group, massive in size yet relatively peaceful. No one can really say when the large group first arrived in this land, any cat old enough to remember the settling has long since passed. But I suppose that part isn’t important. What was important was the war later caused by it. Unrest had begun bubbling up from beneath the group's surface, fracturing it into smaller groups with no clear leadership or direction, and yet battles were fought and lives were taken all for the sake of self-proclaimed borders, reportedly stolen prey, and intense self-preservation. When emotions had finally boiled over, it was hell. Friends and families turned on each other until the lake itself was rumored to have taken on a pinkish hue from all the blood that had been spilled. Finally, when it would seem that every cat was prepared to fight to the death, the earth beneath them shook and four cats stepped up, brought the fighting to a halt, and called for the group to officially divide into four clans. At the first Gathering during a full moon, with the help of the ancestors' (later known as Astralclan) territories and boundaries were finally given to each in what would be considered the fairest trade. Solarclan took the land to the Southwest. Lunarclan, the land to the Northeast. Borealisclan to the Northwest. And Eventideclan settled in the Southeast. The leaders were also shown the way to the Glowing Pool beneath the entwined trees, and it would be there that the leaders would be gifted their nine lives, a sign that Astralclan approved their leadership over each clan. The clans seemed to settle into relative peace once more with the creation of the clans. For a season and a half things appeared to be heading in the right direction; until the beast came. A large cat creature that attacked without mercy and almost for sport, terrorizing the clans for moons; stealing cats, and dragging them away into its den at the edge of clan territory. The same four leaders who had started the clans stepped up once more, this time volunteering to lure the beast away and kill it in a final showdown far from their homes. The lure away was successful, but none of the leaders returned and the search parties that were sent out only returned with reports of fur and blood leading off away from the clan lands. Now the clans are in turmoil, as the deputies are suddenly thrust into leadership, some not yet trusted to lead by members of their own clans. Can these new leaders fill the pawprints left behind by their predecessors? Or are the clans finished before they’ve barely begun?[/smear:#c178a3:0]
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Post by Cosmic Kitties on May 12, 2023 23:36:34 GMT -6
[smear:#f0bc33]SOLARCLAN[/smear:#e79733:0] Righteous & Loyal Territory: [smear:#f0bc33]Solarclan territory is nothing short of breathtaking in its floral beauty. Humans would describe the landscape as something straight out of a summertime fairytale, with vast flower fields and meadows, ponds of varying sizes dottings the landscape, and a smaller lake sitting in the direct center of the territory. Half of the area is home to elegant weeping willows and cherry blossom trees, giving even more color and a hint of softness to the land. This area is normally best for hunting as birds and other wildlife make this territory their home.[/smear:#e79733:0]
Basking Stones: [smear:#f0bc33]To the west of the territory sits a circle of sunstones, all of different sizes, that members of the clan frequently visiting in order to sunbathe whenever the liveliness of camp becomes too much.[/smear:#e79733:0]
The Sun Caller: [smear:#f0bc33]To the East of the territory, dug into the surface of the earth long ago by Twolegs, lays a large flat stone with cracks marring its surface and a strange spike reaching towards the sky in its center. The shadow this strange spike casts onto the stone moves, almost seeming to follow the sun as it makes its way across the heavens; as such the first cats who settled here have called it ‘Sun Caller’. This place is often used for warrior battle assessments.[/smear:#e79733:0]
Calming Hollow: [smear:#f0bc33]To the very South of the lake within Solarclan territory lies a circle of boulders that many cats say give off strange calming energy, with equally strange carved designs decorating their surfaces; which one can only see when they push aside the vines that cover them. One stone, in particular, seems to have been knocked over in what is rumored to be some ancient battle, but that allows it to be used for climbing training, the ground soft enough that even if one should take a tumble, they should only walk away with bruises on their body and ego. [/smear:#e79733:0] Camp: [smear:#f0bc33]At first, when you enter the area where Solarclan Camp is said to be, you would think you were being tricked. Instead of fortified walls or dens made of brambles, one would simply see a huge towering sunflower grove. But if you know where to go, you will find that the camp is the actual grove itself. A small clearing can be found near the middle of the grove, with tunnel openings dotting the ground that leads into an intricate tunnel system hidden beneath the surface.
The clan spends the majority of its time above ground, basking in the warmth of the sunlight, the kits chasing crickets and other creatures as they dart around the long stalks of the flowers. Sneaking up on this camp is near impossible, given that one has to be stealthy enough to maneuver around the flower stalks without disturbing them and alerting any warriors on guard duty.[/smear:#e79733:0]
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Post by Cosmic Kitties on May 12, 2023 23:41:22 GMT -6
[smear:#73a2d9]LUNARCLAN[/smear:#838bcb:0] Mystical & Patient
Territory: [smear:#73a2d9]It is said that the land that Lunarclan chose for their own was done so because it was the sister opposite of Solarclan’s. Where Solar is open, warming, and bright; Lunarclan makes their home in a Forest of Magnolia Kobus trees. A territory of serenity, soothing and shaded, where plants that normally shrivel in the harsh light of Solarclan seem to thrive and grow. The flowers here seem to only answer to the moonlight, most remaining closed until nightfall when they blossom and glow in the darkness.[/smear:#838bcb:0]
The Oasis: [smear:#73a2d9]To the South of Lunarclans’ camp is a large glittering pool so clear that one can see all the way to the bottom, where glass stones of every color can be found. The water in this pool is not deep, reaching only to one's chest. As such, the stones within this pool are often chosen as gifts or mementos within the clan. Around the edge of this pool grows moon flowers, the term for all the plants that bloom at night. A few varieties that can be found here are Night Lilies, Evening Primroses, Star Jasmine, and many others.[/smear:#838bcb:0]
Burning Edge: [smear:#73a2d9]On a border that touches none of the other clans lies a piece of territory that was ravaged by fire many moons ago. It is barren and no plants or animals have been seen in this area since then. The higher-ups of the clan consider this part of the territory to be dangerous, as scorched trees are still known to fall at any given time. Only the most experienced Lunarclan cats are allowed to venture here, never alone, and only when times are especially dire. It is also rumored that a few rogues make their way here, which only gives another reason why the younger members of the clan are warned against coming here.[/smear:#838bcb:0]
Shadow Steps: [smear:#73a2d9]To the West of the territory is a clearing shielded by a ring of Magnolia trees. The ground here is littered with the petals that gracefully fall from the branches, and it is here that cats are trained in the art of stealth and silent steps. It is said that the best of the best of Lunarclan can walk through the petal-covered clearing and not disturb a single one, almost seeming to glide in lethal silence across the surface.[/smear:#838bcb:0]
Camp: [smear:#73a2d9]The home of the members of Lunarclan can be found within the mountainside, not far from the border of Borealisclan, behind what appears to be a glowing blue-green waterfall. Once past the rushing water, you are greeted with the sight of a large glowworm cave, the tiny creatures illuminating the darkness from high up in the cave ceiling. Dens for the different ranks are made up of smaller caves and divots in the cave itself, carved out long ago by ancient rivers and streams. Lunarclan cats appreciate their privacy, therefore most cave dens are covered using ivy.[/smear:#838bcb:0]
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Post by Cosmic Kitties on May 12, 2023 23:47:10 GMT -6
[smear:#b4d5ad]BOREALISCLAN[/smear:#9fc5e7:0] Dependable & Resilient
Territory: [smear:#b4d5ad]High within the snow-capped mountaintops live the hardy cats of Borealisclan. One has to be strong in order to live here as while the summers are mild, the winters are brutal and unforgiving. There is one saving grace, however, as on a plateau deep within the territory is a hot spring, with an orchard of Rainbow Eucalyptus trees growing around it. A few higher plateaus allow for pine trees to grow, giving the clan access to needles and birds’ down due to the pines being a popular family-rearing spot for Owls. These materials are used to cover the camp floor as well as added warmth for nests. Though the territory may appear gloomy and barren, there is more life teeming below the surface than one would expect. But if you were to ask any Borealisclanner themselves, all would tell you that their favorite part of their home is the colorful waves of lights that dance across the open skies overhead, almost touching the mountain peaks and bathing the camp in rainbow light.[/smear:#9fc5e7:0]
Hot Springs: [smear:#b4d5ad]Located on a plateau directly beneath the one that holds the camp, the hot springs are easily accessible due to the gentle way the land slopes between the two locations. The orchard of trees blocks even the worst winter winds, the branches overhead creating a canopy that also keeps away snow. This is a loved place among the clans, as not only do the most beautiful flowers grow here, but prey is always lured here due to warmth, and the spring waters seem to have healing properties; elders often head here to soak in the heat to alleviate joint pain and soreness.[/smear:#9fc5e7:0]
Avalanche Alley: [smear:#b4d5ad]To the west of camp is a dangerous section of the mountain, with a slope so steep that even the barest brushes of wind can cause huge piles of snow to go crashing down the mountain face. This place is forbidden to every cat in Borealisclan, the risk is far too high, and yet something about it always seems to draw a few in. Is it the call of the forbidden? The desire to set foot where no other cat has dared? Perhaps, but all who have ever tried to tame this section of the mountain are never heard from again; their deaths are only signaled by the rumbling roar of an avalanche. [/smear:#9fc5e7:0] Training Drift: [smear:#b4d5ad]Towards the East of camp, a huge snow drift can be found. It is a popular place for apprentices to play, diving into the softer flakes and even building the occasional snowcat. But it’s not all play here in the snow drift, as it is the best place for warriors to take their apprentices to train their muscles, making them stronger by making them walk from one side to the other. Adjustment to the colder weather is also a benefit of spending time in this area.[/smear:#9fc5e7:0]
Camp: [smear:#b4d5ad]Lying just slightly higher than the hot springs. A large clearing with dens made from small caves naturally carved into the face of the mountain. To the side of the camp entrance is a large, hollowed-out pine tree, the medicine cat makes their den within the base, while the leader can be found living within an abandoned owl nest in the trunk of the tree. The mountain itself shields the camp from attack, as a clan has to brave the cliffs and sheer drops in order to reach it. The warmest dens are usually the nursery and elders' den, both located in caves that are the closest in placement to the slope leading to the hot springs.[/smear:#9fc5e7:0]
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Post by Cosmic Kitties on May 12, 2023 23:52:14 GMT -6
[smear:#b35d10]EVENTIDECLAN[/smear:#a52a13:0] Innovative & Ambitious
Territory: [smear:#b35d10]Eventideclan is possibly the most difficult terrain to walk in simply because of it’s marsh-like ground. A rocky yet still green area with a sprinkle of Blue Spruces dotting throughout, but the most notable feature of Eventide is the multitude of water sources. From rushing rivers to crawling creeks and babbling brooks, the opportunity for one to learn how to swim is inescapable in this clans home. Because of the muddy nature of this territory, it is well known that Eventideclanners are born with webbed paws, and that leaving their familiar home often causes their paw pads to dry out and crack. There is also a fair share of fallen logs riddled in this place, used as natural bridges for the cats during times of flooding. Ballon flowers, lavender, and other water loving plants grow in abundance here, giving the territory splashes of color and on warmer days, the breeze can bring the pretty scents into camp. [/smear:#a52a13:0] Kitten Pond: [smear:#b35d10]Just outside of the camp entrance is a small, shallow pool that is perfect for taking kittens to get their paws wet and to teach them the basics of swimming. While the water here is low enough to not usually cause much worry, it’s still good practice for queens or those trusted by the queens to accompany the kits, just in case. There are reeds growing along the edge of the pond, roots anchored deep into the soil, making them strong enough for kittens to hold onto if they are feeling unsteady in the water. Tadpoles and dragonflies are also often found here in the spring, and can be fun distracts for the more excitable bunch. [/smear:#a52a13:0] Iridescent Geyser: [smear:#b35d10]To the North of Eventideclan, towards the direction of Lunarclan, is a geyser that is rumored to be the reason the previous leader choose this area for Eventideclans’ home. Its’ a popular spot for warriors and older clan cats due to it’s more romantic atmosphere and dazzling displays during the evening. The geyser is named mainly for the rainbow colors decorating the earth around the geyser opening and it’s a game sometimes to see which color you can reach before the geyser erupts. The water that shoots from this landmark is about as hot as the water in the hot springs near Borealisclan, another rumor is that the waters may even be connect through some underwater caves that have yet to be found.[/smear:#a52a13:0]
Hollow Log: [smear:#b35d10]A short yet somewhat high hollow log that can be found a few fox tail-lengths away from the Kitten Pond. This is a fun hangout place for the apprentices of the clan. The tadpoles of the Kitten Pond, funnily enough, migrate to this log when they grow strong enough legs; an almost natural depiction of the growth from kit to apprentice. The log is used mostly for a gossip place, and inside the log mushrooms of different variety grows, some even bioluminescent.[/smear:#a52a13:0]
Primary Camp: [smear:#b35d10]During the dry season, camp for Eventideclanners can be found within a giant root system of the oldest blue spruce in the middle of the territory, sitting atop an island that is a mix of sand and dirt. A relatively calm river encircles this mini island, and only those who can swim its shallowest part can leave the safety of the camp. Reeds and horsetails grow steadily along the circular shoreline and shells and colorful stones are readily found on the island. The leader of the clan resides in an old owl hole with the mass trunk, much like leader of Borealisclan. The rest of the clan is tucked away safely with the root system with the warriors den more towards the front and the elders and nursery towards the back. The Medicine cat den can be found outside of the tree as well, between a large moss covered boulder and the trunk of the tree, and as such the medicine cat is usually the first to see any flooding, particularly the start of the rainy season.[/smear:#a52a13:0]
Secondary Camp: [smear:#b35d10]During the rainy seasons, the Island camp is susceptible to flooding from the river, and when that happens the clan makes their seasonal move from the island to a camp a bit farther south, a slight hill that is the highest point in the territory, where a hallow can be found and reed dens have been constructed. This camp is usually checked in on as a part of a patrol that is selected each moon to ensure that the dens are still intact and suitable for living in.[/smear:#a52a13:0]
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Post by Cosmic Kitties on May 13, 2023 17:05:27 GMT -6
[smear:#d3a9bc]OUTER TERRITORIES[/smear:#b8d4a9:0] Adventure awaits
The Lake: [smear:#b8d4a9]A large body of water that touches all the Clan territories, and it is the main water source of all four clans. The Lake does not belong to any Clan. It contains the gathering island, where the Clans hold their Gatherings each moon.[/smear:#d3a9bc:0]
Gathering Island: [smear:#d3a9bc]Floating towards the middle of the lake itself, is an island that is only reachable via a small pebbled path that appears only on nights of the full moon. This island is considered neutral ground, as it was the first place where peace talks and negotiations happened that established the four clans.[/smear:#b8d4a9:0]
Entwined Trees: [smear:#b8d4a9]Gatherings are held in a sandy clearing, where trees from all 4 territories grow in harmony, entwined together as if should one be cut away the rest would also fall. The four leaders perch on a branch of each respective clans tree, and it is from there they make their announcements, while the clans listen comfortably in the sun-warmed sand, the Entwined Trees providing enough shade overhead to ensure the sand never gets too hot in the summer months.[/smear:#d3a9bc:0]
Glowing Pool: [smear:#d3a9bc]Should one enter the root system of these Entwined trees, there is a tunnel that leads down into a sacred cavern where a glittering pool awaits, the moss within it glowing with a strange yet spiritual light, keeping the cavern aglow. This is the Glowing Pool, where Leaders and Medicine cats speak with their ancestors.[/smear:#b8d4a9:0]
Loner Lands: [smear:#b8d4a9]Further east from Lunarclans’ territory, just past the Burning Edge, lays an expanse of territory that is barren and unforgiving. It is here that cats who hold no allegiance to any clans make their home.[/smear:#d3a9bc:0]
Twolegplace: [smear:#d3a9bc]About two moons journey south of the Clan territories a small twoleg town resides. While clan cats have little to no reason to make such a trek, every once in a while, a kittypet decides to take the challenge in an effort to join the clans they hear about from passing loners or rogues. Due to the toll the journey alone would take on an individual, some clans will allow former kittypets to join; the determination of surviving the trip is usually proof enough that they have what it takes to be a Clan cat.[/smear:#b8d4a9:0]
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