Embarrassing! Our TA, underfunded weatherman (an alien named rain) was completely off, ugh! There was no tornado (don't worry we're sending them to the dungeon for an all inclusive torture experience). May our fat ass EF5 queen 🍑 rest in pieces 🥀🪦 Your tussy will forever live in our hearts ❤️ She will be forever commemorated in our Fat Ass EF5 Tornado thread 🫡 Back to business as usual! Please check out our April Announcements, April Patrols, and Valentines Thread Contest Voting! Let's clean those threads!
The Apostles is a warrior cats roleplay based in northern Wisconsin. On Lake Superior, the wild cats have made the Apostle Islands their home. It is on these islands - Rocky Island and South Twin Island - that the clan and tribe cats have lived in a peace and harmony that ebbs and flows with the tide.
But as the tides turn, so does the truce that binds them to one another; and as the water raises, a darkness follows, an evil that will end in bloodshed and violence.
Name:@ silverfire Experience: None here, though I have played two med cats and a leader Character Name: Emberscorch Character Application:Emberscorch Position Desired: LC Deputy IC Sample:Something New (yes it was abandoned but I did rp with her there.
Emberscorch’s eyes narrowed as she stared at Patchstrike. Despite the ginger of her coat making it harder to blend in with the foliage around her, she managed to stay completely hidden.
A few days ago, Minnowstar had confided in her that she found the tom suspicious. The deputy had offered to track him the next time he left camp without his apprentice. It was a bit tricky to catch him since he woke up so early, but she had managed to wake up on time. Sneaking out of camp had been the easy part, as no one gave her a second glance.
Stalking Patchstrike however had been the issue. He was her senior, and as such, he was quite skilled. He wasn’t skilled enough to detect the deputy however, as she had been following him for a while now. Her steps were as light as a feather, barely making a noise. Her small frame allowed her to slip through the fern with ease, and she kept her eyes locked on the tom.
’You’re up to something…’ She thought, eyes narrowing even more. The seal point tom had paused to look around multiple times, seemingly to check if he was being followed. Emberscorch had lost track of how long it had been since they left camp. They’d been walking since the first rays of sun started to melt away the night, and now the sun was in the sky.
A few moments later, the tom stopped.
”Are you alone?” An unfamiliar voice asked. Emberscorch watched as Patchstrike dipped his head.
”I am,” he confirmed. Realizing that this was what she was waiting for, Emberscorch dug her claws into the ground. The first voice spoke again.
”Good… do you have any ideas if she knows I exist..?”
”She knows nothing,” Patchstrike confirmed. Suddenly, the bushes in front of him shifted, and out came a she cat who caused Emberscorch to do a double take.
’No… that can’t be…’ she thought, hackles rising.
”Dad always told me that she’d kill us if she got the chance…” the she cat muttered.
”Dustyleap was a friend of mine,” Patchstrike said. ”I’ll fight to the death to protect any kit of his. Now, what herbs do you want me to get for you this moon?” He asked. That was the last straw.
Without so much as a yowl, she leapt out of the bushes and landed on Patchstrike’s back, causing the she cat to bolt and the tom to collapse.
”You want to share herbs with heathens, do you?” She spat.
”Th-that’s not-“
”Shut it!” Emberscorch exclaimed, pressing his head down and raking her claws along his shoulders, earning a wail of pain. ”You are going to explain yourself to Minnowstar!” She screamed. Despite her smaller size, the deputy managed to fasten her teeth around the tom’s neck. She bit down ever so slightly, making sure she wouldn’t kill him. She knew he wouldn’t struggle however, as it was clear that any movement could lead to him being killed.
She drug the tom back to camp, dropping him unceremoniously at the entrance of Minnowstar’s den.
”I found the traitor,” she said, eyes glittering coldly. This tom deserved to be killed. She just hoped Minnowstar would see it the same way.
Character views on Minnowstar & Starclan: Emberscorch is… devout to say the very least. She sees Cinderface and Minnowstar as the two who will connect them to StarClan. She refuse to make eye contact with either, out of sheer respect for the pair. She would throw herself into a full fox den if either so desired. She makes no attempts to hide this either, appearing at every single baptism and confessing each and every time. She refuse to interact with outside cats unless it is to fight them, and she thinks everything was caused by StarClan.
Sickness in the clan? StarClan cleansing the clan of those who do not believe.
Broken tail? StarClan was clearing trying to say something- possibly that her mate was going to hurt her and she didn’t listen.
Lost her entire family? StarClan needed them.
Each paw step, each breath, and each piece of prey is from StarClan and they can take it away whenever they so desire.
She’s exceptionally vocal in her devoutness, from verbally praying over each catch and each meal to always keeping her head lowered in subservience to Minnowstar and Cinderface to going to each and every baptism and verbally admitting how she’s sinned, it’s exceptionally hard to miss how devout she is. It’s hard to miss how much she respects both Cinderface and Minnowstar as well. In fact, when she went to ask for Hornetpaw to switch mentors, she made sure it was very clear that she would stick with him were Minnowstar to say that she should. She’s relinquished prey for the higher ups. She listens to everything they say like it’s the most fascinating thing in the world.
There is no second guessing. No getting upset. No contradicting Minnowstar. Minnowstar and Cinderface are the two cats she’s willing to lay her life down for and, if told to do so, she’d slaughter her own kits.
How will this character advance Minnowstar's vision and earn her trust? Emberscorch is small and rather unsuspecting to those who don’t know her. Her size has made it so most eyes aren’t drawn to her. Ever since her mate cheated on her, she used this to her advantage. From being able to stalk cats to eavesdropping, she is able to gain information easily.
Doing this, she would listen to conversations, reporting to her leader any time anything suspicious was said. She’d even stalk cats if Minnowstar asks.
As for earning the leader’s trust, I believe following her commands without question and clearly being devout would be a big chunk of that. I also believe that the fact that she’s gone to and confessed something at each and every confession. She’s even said she can’t remember how she sinned but she knew she sinned.
With a deep seated hatred for other clans and loners, she’d be very eager to fight them. To her, heathens mean nothing. She’d sow the seeds of anger in the clan alongside the other hps, rallying those for StarClan against all others. While she could never take Cinderface’s place, she’d urge the clan to continue to pray to StarClan and to ask for guidance if they’re confused. Of course, she wouldn’t step on anyone’s toes, she’d just say that StarClan is the guiding force and has helped her despite her flaws.
Convincing cats that StarClan, Minnowstar, and Cinderface are the ones you should strive to emulate, she’d be an advocate for confessing sins to StarClan during baptisms. She’d be like an overzealous door knocker. She will verbally pray before eating and encourage others to join her. The warrior code is something she’d teach to everyone. She’s so devout that it can be a bit jarring for others.
Furthermore, she’d step up boarder patrols, encouraging everyone to fight any and all sinners they come across. She would patrol often as well, personally making sure cats steer clear of the territory. At gatherings, she’d encourage the clan to not talk to heathens unless it is to get information out of them.
She would be whatever Minnowstar and Cinderface wanted, and would never verbally disagree. No matter what is ordered of her, she’d do it- just like she has as a warrior.
Character Plot Plans: Emberscorch’s plot is fairly open. I wish for her to have a litter, and raise them as devout StarClan worshipers. Other than that, she’s open.
Post by fallenreaper on Feb 1, 2021 17:53:03 GMT -6
Name: Fallenreaper Experience: THIS IS MY FIRST TIME TRYING OUT FOR AN HIGH POSITION Character Name: SHADEPAW Character Application: SHADEPAW Position Desired: THISTLE MEDICINE CAT IC Sample:
Shadepaw's sight lingered on the ground. It looked so far down and his imagination rushed into his thoughts causing his heart to race. The muscle bruised his ribs until he thought it would burst from his chest. With a few deep breaths, he tried to soothe the fear that slinked into his brain.
At Ivorypaw's words, he finally ripped his attention from their towering location. He had barely noticed she had moved back to the tree base as he turned to face her.
Her words about his terror raked across his confidence. He knew she didn't mean like that, but it didn't make the accusation better. The tom's ears pressed against his skull while he avoided her eyes. Shame filled his consciousness and forced him to look away from her disappointed face. Shadepaw couldn't think of the right thing to say.
Swallowtooth's assumption of him had never been wrong. He was weak, terrified of everything, and a waste of fur. Why would a few, stupid victories change that?
Shadepaw kept his tail down as he followed Ivorypaw. Front paws reached up and dug into the bark, his body tugged down to test the strength. Before he could join her, his ears caught the loud scratching on the bark.
His eyes glanced down. His expression twisted into horror when he watched Ivorypaw plummet down.
"IVORYPAW!" A voice alien and loud escaped his throat.
In a movement faster than he could register, the onyx apprentice slid down. His claws found purchase thanks more to his instinct than his mind. In about a minute, his whole body reached the ground. He darted from the roots to the molly's side.
"Ivorypaw, what happened? You were doing fine then... then you fell!" Shadepaw's voice rose to a few shrill octaves.
Already, his body circled as he looked her over. It didn't take him long to realize she had hurt her paw.
"Your paw doesn't look good. We need to head back to camp.”
Character views on Starclan and current Thistleclan plot:
Being the black sheep of his family and Thistleclan lacking any sort of hardcore stance on starclan, Shadepaw’s view would be a neutral one. He has no negative or positive association with the mysterious starclan and anything he knows is purely stumbled on with conversations from Ratwhisker during his stay in the medicine den. Shadepaw thinks being a medicine cat is an important and valued role even when most of his clan doesn’t appear to agree.
As for his clan’s current situation, he feels it’s mainly a string of bad luck. He has little reason to believe there’s more until Starclan actually shows him and stirs him into action. With the loss of the herbs and Ratwhisker, the pressure would be heavy on the next medicine cat for sure. It will take some extreme skill and knowledge to ensure the clan survived.
How will this character's relationship with Starclan and the other Medicine Cats benefit Thistleclan and the other TC HPs?
Shadepaw would start off timid and lacking confidence. It is in his nature because he is overcaution about the things he doesn’t understand. Eventually, he learns to trust and grow in his own self-worth to his clan which will forge him into someone stronger. He will learn who he can depend on and how strong he really is.
Below are how I see things possibly going, but I will locate and talk with the players/staff. So this part is subject to change.
Starclan- touched on this in the prior section a bit, but I’ll add on to it. Using dreams as the medium through which Starclan connects with the medicine cats, Shadepaw’s development could directly influence the feel of the hints. They could start off as unnerved and horrifying, even devolving into nightmares in his early moons as a medicine cat. As he grew and developed, they could shift into something more positive. Instead of a terrifying one, it could be a serene and calming display with hints of warning or terror when his connection to starclan grows.
The more involved he is, I feel the stronger that connection becomes and he will play a strong supporting role in the unraveling of the dream’s meaning.
Thistle Clan
Thievingstar- At first, Thievingstar’s aggression and unsettling air would feel overwhelming. He would be timid and uncertain of himself when dealing with her. Forcing himself to speak, but it might come out as stuttering or run together words. Gradually, that anxiety and irritation will build until he finally snaps. Showing a spine he didn’t have before by confronting her with the truth as he sees it even if she doesn’t agree. Surprisingly, he won’t stutter once. In his view, the worst she could do is not listen and suffer the consequences. I aim to build up to this point with help from Bandit.
Stagflight- I feel Shadepaw would earn this one’s suspicion due to the fact he is young and timid, an easy target for any rogue. With him having to do lessons often with Aster, it likely won’t die down or trust earned properly until Stagflight required treatment and Shadepaw provided it even if the older cat shrugged him off. It might force Shadepaw to learn to be clever with some of his patients. I feel he admire Stagflight’s hardworking and relates to his awkward nature. I feel these two could develop some subtle, gradual respect for each other over time with help from Budgie.
Redwood Clan
Finchstar- I think these two would co=exist well due to the fact they are both timid, weak with words, and trying to benefit their clans the best they can. He would feel sympathy if he ever learned of the sickness taking Finchstar’s close loved ones, proving some heartfelt condoles despite being from Thistle Clan.
Orchidshade- Unlike Thievingstar, Orchidshade might not bother him too much. She shares some of the qualities that Shadepaw’s father shares, though Shadepaw would not grow close to her. He would have respect as a medicine cat for her, but it mainly depends on how she reacts to his growth and interactions. I would have to actually talk with Maxx over this and arrange a thread to be fully sure. I’m confident he would admire her knowledge of herbs and medicine.
Lichen Clan
Minnowstar- This cat would terrify him… Enough said. I seriously would need to contact Wish for any point in time he would ever interact with her because her mere aura would just cause him to snap his trap shut.
Cinderface- He would be curious about her knowledge of starclan, but he won’t press if she gives him the ice shoulder. He’d admire her strong faith and devotion to her duty. However, he is more compassionate and I feel this will clash eventually. How or why I need to discuss with Moony. She’s another cat I can’t fully be sure of how Shadepaw will react to. Especially since he reacts based on how’s he is treated rather than based on his own views.
Brairpaw- I think Briarpaw and him would bond well over the discovery of new information. Her honesty will gain his trust, but the moment she began to weave lies or half-truths… that might not last. This primarily reflects on their interaction and setting of where they met. So, I would need to contact Raven over this.
Loner
Aster- I think Shadepaw and her would get along pretty well. She has a warm charm to her character while he has a timid, uncertain one. I can see him hanging on every word during their lessons and making notes in his head over it. Even heading out with another cat to increase his knowledge every chance he gets. Sometimes bring a catch if he could manage one on the way. With her help, I feel he’s got a better chance to heal and maintain the health of his clan.
Character Plot Plans:
I aim to weave Shadepaw’s personal plans with the medicine cat’s plot, without derailing or hurting it. I feel the connection with starclan will help Shadepaw grow from his meek, low value about himself into something healthier. Someone who discovers his whole life wasn’t as worthless as he originally believed. He’s connected to something greater than himself and spiritually mends what is broken inside himself. Allowing him to connect with even those he otherwise would avoid during his efforts to heal both physically and emotionally. He will be learning through self taught mainly, but still require help. I do expect him to fail from really bad to minor on occasion. (Mind you, even if I’m not picked, I have other ways to achieve this outside of the medicine cat plotline.)
I’m also toying with the idea of having a past medicine cat in his family history that might visit him on occasion and nudge him in the right direction. A small mystery he could discover by interacting with other medicine cats, but it’s a very sketchy idea.
I do welcome other ideas and willing to discuss them to see if they fit Shadepaw well or not. [/b]
Name: Annie Experience: none here, several leaders/deputies on other sites, medicine cats twice Character Name: Quickstrike Character Application: QUICKSTRIKE Position Desired: LichenClan Deputy
IC Sample: an excerpt from who i am in which Quickstrike learns of his grandmother
The sudden change in his sister alarmed Quickstrike. He withdrew a bit, amber eyes wide with worry at the sudden urgency in her voice. Quickstrike’s ears slicked back against his head, instinct driving the tom to stand abruptly and scan the area for danger at his sister’s hissed words, feeding off her unease. He didn’t see anyone in the tiny glen and his night vision was far superior than many expected. After a while, when he didn’t hear anything after the squirrel, he crouched beside Swansong again, though he allowed his fur to fluff to make for a more intimidating appearance.
If anyone was watching, he’d make sure to make them pay the price for intruding and eavesdropping. He was often overlooked due to his quieter nature and tendency to cling to the shadows, but Quickstrike wasn’t trained by Hemlockheart to become a subpar warrior. He often held himself in a none threatening manner, but as lean as the tom was, Quickstrike knew he could be incredibly intimidating if he decided to throw his weight around.
The way she spoke, the frequent pauses, the urgent and frantic look to her eyes, made his heart roar louder and louder in his ears. That something inside him, that flickered and craved and hungered for answers, that clawed at the tiny box inside, was quiet, listening with rapt attention.
Quickstrike felt like he was on the edge of a crevice, looking across the open blank space for a ledge to leap for.
The wings beat louder within his mind than ever before. He wondered if Swansong could hear them, how deafening they were!
Egretfeather’s rise, and demise, was a favorite story of their mothers to tell when they were kits, though Quickstrike remembered more vividly Swansong’s voice reciting the words. In hushed tones, her voice would grow and die with power, weaving a tale of heroics and tragic endings. His father was never present for the bed-time stories that featured her, and when, as kits, they would play and act out the stories in the presence of their father, their mother was quick to end them with harsh, harmful words.
It had been a confusing time for Quick-kit, who’d always been a bit more perceptive and, of course, a braggart who rankled against the boundaries his parents placed.
But now…he understood suddenly. Those stories…they weren’t stories. He knew that, of course, when he became an apprentice. The stories had changed into warnings and dark history that was frowned upon by nearly his whole clan.
But…this was a truth, the hidden side he’d never quite understood. He’d heard all this before, but from a different end. He’d never heard of it from the view of the other side, the side who longed for change.
Quickstrike stood abruptly as she spoke of StarClan, tail lashing. The beast inside was a snarling mess, eating at his insides. He was livid suddenly, and he honestly didn’t quite know why.
“A sign from StarClan? Why now, why not when I begged for them back then?” He snarled to himself, angrier by the second and desperate to reason out why. He suddenly remembered he’d played for so long that little fiddle of being devout. And now he’d just confessed to his sister, in a way, that StarClan was the least of his worries and definitely not in his prayers at night.
But then he heard the whispers grow quiet and the wings fall silent. It felt like, in that moment, they were surrounded by watching eyes. Eyes that didn’t feel, though, like anything but hopeful watchers, awaiting for something to happen.
Quickstrike felt a calm settle over his mind. He felt the beast in that rattling cage growl in contentment. Quickstrike turned his head to his sister. “A threat? If she is still worried about us, still sees us as a threat…A threat is only a threat if someone sees it as having a chance of succession.”
Quickstrike turned his burning eyes upon his sister, feeling emboldened suddenly. “Do you understand, Swansong…that means…there is hope.”
Character views on Minnowstar & Starclan: Quickstrike has many mixed, complicated feelings when it comes to his leader. He respects her for the position she holds, and from his strict tutelage under Hemlockheart, as well as her vast life experience. Quickstrike has no doubt that she has been through more than him and he knows she is an intellectual being with a hawk’s vision. He grew up on the stories fed to kits to encourage them to follow their leaders blindly, and maybe he would have walked down a different path should he have been born to a lesser family.
But he wasn’t.
He is frightened of her, rightfully so, for her position holds her above all others in the clan. She could have him exiled or killed at the blink of an eye and he doesn’t doubt her many zealous would be reluctant to carry out such an order should she deem it so. The stories that should have encouraged him to follow his leader took dark truths as he became older, whispered warnings to avoid her wrath, never upset his leader, never make her suspicious. He was told to keep his head down, do his duty first and foremost and he would be fine.
Quickstrike has come to realize, though, that it was all foolish hope to be left alone under her rule. Maybe Quickstrike should be angry with his leader, for ostracizing his family, for singling him out, for all the wrongs she has done and continues to do. She has lost faith in her clan, the very clan that relies on her, not some ghosts, to lead.
But the truth is, Quickstrike pities Minnowstar more than anyone else. He has come to see that the leader’s paranoia and skepticism has left her alone in the world, without a true clan to follow her.
Quickstrike’s belief in StarClan has always been feeble at best. He has grown into a realistic, cut and dry tom that believes first in the things he can see, touch, and feel, do himself. He holds more value in his friends and clanmates than in figments of the mind and ghosts of the past. He doesn’t like to lay faith in false hopes and fancy words, rather, her prefers to get the job done himself. His belief in StarClan is that they are merely watchers, if they do exist, that want to do little to help those below. But Quickstrike is a secret tom, one who has been living his whole life in wrapped in shadow, secrets, and a dangerous game of charades. One would never know of this tom’s doubt in the StarClan that Minnowstar boasts of.
How will this character advance Minnowstar's vision and earn her trust? Quickstrike has no plans ultimately to advanced Minnowstar’s vision. Due to recent personal events, this tom is stepping out into the spotlight to give voice to the weak, the minor, the abused, and the neglected. He has grown tired of tyranny and tired of waiting for someone to come along to put an end to madness. He fully intents to put a stop to Minnowstar’s wrath. But he knows should she find out about this, his family and friends will pay the ultimate price, while he is forced to watch.
So, this tom will continue to play this deadly game he has lived his whole life. He will act, dance, and play whatever part Minnowstar desires if it means an end. He wants to see his clan great again, but if he must perish for his clan to rise once more, then so be it. He is tired of hiding, tired of watching and waiting in the shadows. Now is his time to act, and what better way than to prey upon the very paranoia that has made his life, and so many others, a burden.
As future leader of the rebellion, Quickstrike will not sit by while his clanmates work and toil for his dream. He will through himself into the raging sea and drown before he has to sit back and watch again. With the disappearance of Hemlockheart and Nightclaw, Quickstrike feels the pressure to step out, be seen, and get things done. And what better way to appeal to Minnowstar than bait her with false rebellion news, and offer himself up as a trophy, Egretfeather’s grandson.
Character Plot Plans: Quickstrike will always be at war with his belief in StarClan, as it is a very integral part of just who Quickstrike is. His faith in them will be solidified in time, but he will always remain a character who turns them when all else has failed.
Most of his plot details are still hazy, and thus I’m open to many things, but Quickstrike will begin to explore his heritage, discover many things about himself, both good and bad.
Name:Captain Experience: None here, a few on previous sites (cough cough eod) Character Name: Icesong Character Application: Icesong Position Desired: RWC Deputy IC Sample:
Icesong carefully held a small kit between her paws. She tenderly nuzzled him and cleaned his fur while his mother worked on his sister. Icesong and the queen sat silently in the nursery. They both had too many thoughts to start a conversation. The simple, heartwarming task of cleaning a kit kept them sane. Icesong starred off at the ground beyond her charge as if contemplating something.
“It’s frustrating…” Icesong started. “Seeing LichenClan so healthy when we’re… sorry I shouldn’t be ranting. As deputy, I need to keep a confident outlook, but I can’t help myself. When I see these kits so young and innocent, I worry.”
The queen gave her a soft smile and shuffled closer. “Don’t worry, dear, all will be well.” Icesong let herself lean into the queen, taking comfort in the motherly figure. They stayed like that for a time, taking comfort in each other’s presence. Eventually, it was time for Icesong to get back to work. With a sorrowful gaze and parting words, she left the nursery. Her misery at seeing sick kits and queens was genuine, but it was hard to pity the ill warriors wandering around camp. Walking with heavy footsteps and hunched shoulders, Icesong mimicked them. Submersing herself in the haze of sickness and misery was no easy task. Icesong would rather flaunt her health and how beautiful she looked in comparison to the sickly warriors. But instead, she kept her fur ragged and dishevelled. Icesong was working hard for her clanmates. Perhaps her work didn’t always result in unsightly injuries and unkempt fur, but she was willing to degrade herself to get the respect she deserved.
Stopping in front of the High-Rock, Icesong stretched her neck. Acting meek and ill took a toll on her shoulders. Like slipping into a comfortable nest, Icesong turned on her persona. She gave her fur a few licks to ease the mess, but not enough to clean it entirely. Finchstar should see her as slightly unkempt to convey a hard-working attitude and still take in her beautiful looks and soft figure. With her appearance prepared, there was nothing left to do before entering the den. Icesong had long since designed the words of this encounter. She was a natural at acting, and that was all she needed to do.
“Finchstar,” She said, entering the den. Purposely pausing, she took a moment to look over the leader and signed somberly. “Oh, Finchstar,” she muttered sweetly. “You look like a disaster.” Slipping in closer, Icesong invaded his bubble and tenderly nuzzled him like he was a kit. In her heart, Icesong held none of the tenderness she had for the kit in the nursery.
“Finchstar, I just spoke with the queens. They are scared,“ She said calmly. “And so am I. I’ve never been so filled with such despair. Our clanmates are dying Finchstar. A disease ravages our clanmates, and we are helpless to stop it. Our warriors are questioning my and our medicine cat’s ability to do anything.”
She paused to give Finchstar another long, tear-stricken gaze. “Soon, they’ll turn to you for guidance. We must have an answer.” With the tenderness of a mother, Icesong quickly smushed any thoughts or opinions he might have. “Shush dear, I know I know.”
“It’ll be simple. It’s not a permanent solution, but it’ll keep the clan together while we recover. We… we can redirect their anger. Think of LichenClan. Everyone is so upset with them. Even I am envious that they are all so healthy when my clan is dying.
Don’t get me wrong; I’m not saying we have to fight them again. We’ll just use them for now. The clan will be united by a common hatred of LichenClan. They’ll help out each other instead of bickering over prey and herbs. If we can just have a little bit of peace, even if it requires us to blame another clan, isn’t that worth it? When we recover from this illness, we can find another way to deal with LichenClan.
In the end, nothing will come of it. It’s just a small white lie. They’ll follow you. I promise it. You have the final say as the clan leader… don’t you?”
Standing up, Icesong retracted any comfort she had been offering the leader. She wanted to let the idea sink in and leave Finchstar to brew in his insecurity. He’d come around; Icesong knew it. Pausing at the entrance of the den, Icesong shifted uneasily. Acting as though she was uncertain, she turned back slowly. Looking Finchstar in the eyes, she hesitated. A few times, she would open her mouth, only to say nothing. Finally, she took a deep breath.
“I just think... if you don’t give them anything, well… I’m not sure you’ll have a clan left to lead.” Character views on Finchstar's pacifism and the current war with LC: Icesong doesn’t buy the pacifist nice-guy routine. She’s done that same dance with her mentor Pebble-- and is adamant not to believe he doesn’t have any underlying intentions or selfish desires. For the most part, she’s stayed quiet about her doubts about her leader. Even as a deputy, Icesong won’t openly criticize her leader or doubt his intentions. Instead, she’ll sow seeds of doubt in her clanmates and pressure Finchstar from behind the scenes.
Icesong had long supported Redfox’s views and is upset to see the deputy replaced. She’s battle-hungry just like her parents and encourages apprentices and young warriors to be (idiotically) bold and eager for war. She will take a hard stance against LC, believing that they intend to leave RWC with nothing if they have their way. In her opinion, LC will never back down unless RWC fights back. Blood needs to be spilled to protect the clan. Icesong would be willing to push further than simple retaliation. RWC could always use more territory.
Despite her intense hatred of LC, Icesong will be careful about who she reveals it to. She’ll pretend to be a pacifist when speaking with Finchstar but then turn around to her warriors and encourage hatred and fear. How will this character challenge/and or encourage Finchstar to take action with the war? Icesong enjoys playing around with the feelings and emotions of other cats. She does it without remorse and if using Finchstar meant she could help her clan, she’d be more than willing. Capitalizing on the current disease outbreak, Icesong would lie in wait. She’d spread ideas amongst her clanmates about LC casing pain. LC cats are healthy and thriving while RWC succumbs to illness. When cats began to recover and mourn for the cats lost to sickness, she’d strike and spur on her clanmates to want to fight and make LC pay.
With a growing uproar among the clanmates, Icesong would do her best to persuade Finchstar to fight LC. She’d remind him of how many cats were lost to sickness and try to convince him how distraught their precious clanmates are. Using his insecurities against him, Icesong would put him down with subtle insults or jabs. She’d portray war as the only real way to show his clanmates he was a competent leader. If he stayed a pacifist, his clanmates would be oh so disappointed in him.
Finchstar willing, Icesong would even use her charms to get him on her side. If he needed a shoulder to cry on, she’d be there. If he needed a cat to love, she could put up with it for a bit. If Finchstar needed anything, she’d be willing to comply. With him in her debt, she could achieve so much more. Character Plot Plans: Icesong’s story will not be a happy one. Icesong will push RedwoodClan in the direction she thinks is best. She’ll teach apprentices to be blood-thirsty and eager for battle. In her mind, she’s only doing what is best and giving them a way to succeed as warriors. She’s wholly disconnected from the reality that bolder and eager apprentices are more likely to die. It’ll take a lot for her to realize the effect she has on others. She’ll slowly take note of small adverse outcomes but quickly dismiss them with lies and excuses. Icesong will build up a fragile wall of lies as she tries to ignore her faults. She can do nothing but console the grieving queens and kits, never truly accepting her part in it all.
Icesong will slowly develop a genuine bond with another cat. Whether it is romantic or platonic, she’ll start to open up to them and finally share her real thoughts and resentment towards her mentor. Having another cat she trusts will be the first crack in her wall of denial.
Icesong will have an internal struggle between not accepting defeat or admitting her failure and seeing what her ideals have caused. This will push her to be more aggressive and lash out at her clanmates. Her bonds with others will be forced to their breaking point. Icesong will direct her anger at the cats who genuinely care about her and just want to make her realize the truth. Friendship will easily slip out of reach, and she’ll realize that it was all she really wanted. Hidden up by lies and arrogance was a young warrior in need of others. As she starts to realize the effect she has on her clanmates, it’ll be too late. Apprentices she trained to be bold will die at her paws. Cat she cares about will turn their back on her. Once at her truest low-point, it’s unclear what will happen from here. Perhaps a cat can reach her so far down, or she’ll be lost forever.
Name: Akura Experience: I've done forum rp for around 3 or 4 years, but haven't pursued any HPs in the past. Character Name: Bristlefur Character Application: Bristlefur Position Desired: Lichenclan Deputy IC Sample: (memory) Bristlepaw making an important observation, and confiding in Palepaw.
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Narrowed eyes wandered around the repetitive walls of his home. If it were up to him, he would've left this mess of rocks a long time ago. Sadly, it wasn't. 'Grounded' the apprentice thought to himself. 'All because stupid Adderpaw couldn't shut his trap for one patrol.' Now they're both stuck in camp for who knows how long, stuck doing gross tasks like pulling ticks off of elders when they could've been outside fighting instead. They now avoided each other for as long as possible, even going through the effort of taking different shifts just so they wouldn't have to see the other's ugly mug. The anger he initially felt had simmered down to an irritated spark, but all the time pent up had given him time to think on things. Too much time, actually. Trudging around camp all day had made Bristlepaw notice just how much everyone seemed to be obsessed with their ancestors, of all things. As a now adolescent cat, it was in his nature to question things; and question he did.
Even when they were allowed to go out again, Bristlepaw seemed consistently distracted. Though it had wholly consumed his thoughts, only one cat seemed to notice, or at the very least bother to look into it. And even she had taken a few days. He was hunched off in a long forgotten corner of the caves when she approached. The space he occupied was small and lonesome; perfect for when he wanted to avoid the more nosey cats. But the messy-furred tom was content in knowing none of his clanmates wanted to deal with him right then. A light pelt came into view, and he recognized the owner immediately. It would've been sad if he hadn't, considering they grew up together. Palepaw always seemed to know when he was feeling troubled - at least when it became more than he could bear alone. "Bristlepaw, mind if I join you?" To any other cat, he would've hissed in their face and stalked off to a better spot...but she was different. His sister was one of the few he tolerated, and even he didn't really know why. They sit for a few breaths in companionable silence. Her question hung silently in the air, both knowing what it was but not needing to say it.
The gruff tom takes a moment to find the words, before ducking his head and uttering, "Everyone here is always just going Starclan this and Starclan that, but I've never actually seen them do anything!" He almost instinctively lowers his voice before continuing, the sound low and growling, but tinged with something lighter and boyish that betrayed his age. "What if...they're not real in the first place? Just something they tell to keep the kits in line?" For the past few days it'd felt like he'd been spiraling deeper and deeper into a well of doubt, but finally saying his thoughts out loud seemed to give them a sort of tangibility that wasn't there before. "It would make sense, wouldn't it?" And while this may have reassured the tom, it didn't seem to be having the same effect on his sister.
Palepaw was stone-still, both body and face rigid as he spoke. The normally soft and open expression she wore was now replaced with something akin to his own, though slightly less angry looking. It felt as if the voice sounding from her lips wasn't her own in the slightest, as words and tone foreign to her replicated the fierce look in her eyes. "Bristlepaw...please. Don't tell anyone what you just told me. If someone finds out that you don't believe..." A more grim face than the last appeared. "Just promise me. Promise that you won't speak your mind on this at least." She bowed her head, but the weight of her words still got through to him.
The tom-cat was stunned to near silence. Never had his words had this much of an effect on her; not even when he condemned their father or called Adderpaw rude names in front of everybody. It was like an entirely different cat had taken the place of his sister for just those few moments. As green eyes began to peer up at him, he was jerked out of his stupor. "Ye...Yeah. Fine. Just on this though." Wanting to add a hint of levity, the apprentice quickly tacked on another comment. "I have a reputation to upkeep after all." The smirk crossing his face almost felt right, but there was no gleam of mischief or pride in his eyes today. This seemed to be enough for the oddly serious Palepaw, though, as a small sigh of relief left her. When she straightened to face him fully, the apprentice had seemed to come back to herself now. "Good. I'll see you later then? We can talk after I'm finished with my apprentice duties for the day." With his nod, she left. And just like that, everything was back to normal.
Normal, but...different at the same time. It was a hard thing to explain, but it felt like something irreversible and dangerously important had occurred in just those few minutes alone. It was the start of a path that Bristlepaw had unwittingly fallen upon...A mindset taking hold that would one day lead to his ruin. This was all unknown to him of course. And so, with a roll of his shoulders, he got up and continued on with his day.
Character views on Minnowstar & Starclan: Bristlefur skirts on the edge of disbelief in Starclan; to him they're either powerless, or a simple bedtime story that was given too much credit. This in turn has soured his view of Minnowstar; so blinded by the stars that there's no way she could lead an entire clan for much longer. Luckily he's never spoken of these beliefs to anyone but his sister, who in return has begged him to stay quiet. Having to hold his tongue for so long is part of what's caused his extreme bitterness and pessimism, which he now aims at anything but the two things he really despises. Bristlefur can admire his leader's skill and tactical ability with fighting though. Both of them seem to be warmongers, but he mainly advocates for it just so he can fight. The sacrifices and prayers to Starclan are stupid to him, but he gruffly complies with those as well.
How will this character advance Minnowstar's vision and earn her trust? What he would offer her is a strict second-in-command that would wholeheartedly support her plans of war, even if its for different reasons. Bristlefur would fiercely advocate for things such as increased border patrols, battle training, and possibly pushing into other clans' territories. To him, nothing is as important as a cat's strength. He would never rest until everyone was doing their work to some capacity, as he knows that with enough training they could become the feared clan they're supposed to be. Few could match his sheer aggression and prowess on the battlefield, so he would be keen to lead as many patrols as he could into the fights. His harsh treatment towards most is well-known and enough to keep most cats in line. If they disobey him or are found slacking on the job, then they are punished accordingly. Those who cower and deny what they've done will be subject to the most cruel ones, as he believes they are what drag down the clan with their cowardice. A one-on-one sparring match is his favorite penalty to dish out, and a sure-fire way to tell that you're on his shit list. One as strict as him could easily take charge if Minnowstar needed him to, and possibly dissuade the rebellion from acting anytime soon.
Character Plot Plans: Bristlefur is not going to go down a good path. His sister's plea is the only thing truly keeping him in line right now, but even that is becoming shaky as time passes. If something were to happen to her, or if Minnowstar were to do something truly reprehensible and/or idiotic, then he may very well snap. At that point, he'll throw everything to the side in favor of fully speaking his mind, while hopefully insulting both Minnowstar and Starclan. The end goal is for him to be exiled, then live the rest of his life as a rogue. Bristlefur will become a thorn in Lichenclan's side for moons to come.
Name: Silverfire Experience: Non here, but I've played 2 med cats and a leader before Character Name: Primrosepaw Character Application:Primrosepaw Position Desired: RedwoodClan Medicine Cat Apprentice IC Sample:Who are you?
It had been a question that Primrosepaw had thought about her entire life. It should’ve been a simple question. She was Primrosepaw. A brown tabby she-cat who was the daughter of Puddleflower and Littlestep, the sister of Dripkit, the former apprentice of Dawnlight, and the current apprentice of Orchidshade. She was a medicine cat apprentice and she spent her days learning to heal others.
However, none of those answers truly felt right. None of them truly answered the question of who she was.
She stared into the creek, her green eyes meeting her reflection’s eyes. It didn’t feel right.
Every time she would see her reflection, she felt like she was looking at a stranger. The Primrosepaw she saw in her reflection was smiling, with her eyes bright and her ears perked. She was happy and ready to learn. The exhaustion in her face had been completely replaced with joy. This was who she strived to be.
But it wasn’t her.
No matter how many cats she would treat and no matter how many herbs she would memorize, she would never be that excited cat who mocked her from the surface of the water. She wouldn’t even be able to come close. Not when she woke up each and every day feeling like there was something off about her. She couldn’t remember the last time everything about her felt normal. Had there ever been a time like that?
Who are you?
The question continued to haunt her and every waking moment. It embedded itself into her brain like a tick. At twenty-two moons, she had been ready to receive her medicine cat name for moons. In fact, she had been offered her full name multiple times, but she continued to refuse it. She didn’t feel like she could accept her name until that question was answered.
Everyone was starting to doubt her. She saw it in their faces when they came to be treated. Honestly, she didn’t blame them. After all, what cat continued to refuse their full name? Even Orchidshade, for as determined as she was, was starting to withdrawal from her. No matter how many times Primrosepaw told her that the reason she was continuing to refuse her name had nothing to do with the black she-cat’s teachings, she could tell that she was starting to doubt herself.
It wasn’t as if Primrosepaw didn’t want her full name- she did! She just couldn’t accept it in good conscience. Not yet.
Who are you? She needed to answer that question. She felt the desire in every muscle, vein, organ, and bone. However, no matter what she said, something about her description of herself felt… wrong. She looked up from the puddle. Sitting back, she reached up to gently grab the wilted dandelion that she wore in her paws. It was something she had been wearing for moons at this point. It was old and dead, but she continued to wear it.
‘Perhaps it’s symbolic,’ she mused, green eyes scanning the flower. Her mother had given it to her before she had passed.
“For my baby girl…” Puddleflower had said.
That was seven moons ago.
In those seven months, something had changed. She had been herb gathering near the border around two moons ago when she had encountered a beautiful she-cat. A rogue. However, this she-cat was… different. Perhaps it was the way she held herself, or perhaps it was the way she stared towards ThistleClan with a longing expression. Whatever it had been, it was enough for Primrosepaw to approach her.
“Who are you?” She had asked, the irony of the question not lost on the timid medicine cat apprentice. Her tongue had felt like it had been burned when she had asked the question. After all, if she couldn’t answer that question herself, how could she ask another to answer it?
The she-cat hadn’t taken offense to the question however, instead, she introduced herself as Songbird. Almost as if she was under a spell, Primrosepaw had introduced herself in return. It wasn’t something she was supposed to do- she knew that. Finchstar, Icesong, Dawnlight, and Orchidshade had all warned her to be careful of who she spoke to, no matter the clan. Despite being friendly to outsiders, RedwoodClan was still cautious.
“You know this is the border to clan territory, correct?” Primrosepaw had asked. Songbird had dipped her head. Primrosepaw had fell silent after that, instead opting to take in the image of the she-cat.
After a few heartbeats had passed, Primrosepaw opened her maw again. “Why is such a pretty she-cat hanging around our border?”
Songbird had shifted uncomfortably. At first, the brown tabby thought the torbie had been doing something nefarious, after all, she had seen the uncomfortable shifting more than once when the cats she had treated did something that they were not allowed to do. Songbird did not admit to causing trouble, however.
All she did was ask Primrosepaw to not call her a she cat.
“Are you a tom?” Primrosepaw had blurted out, confusion shining in her eyes like stars in a pool. Songbird shook his head.
“What are you?”
Neither. The answer Primrosepaw had been given was “neither”.
The rest of the encounter was a blur, with the only thing that she could really remember was Songbird requesting to be referred to by “they” and “them”. Was that possible? Primrosepaw had never heard of it. Everyone she knew had been either a tom or a she-cat. There was nothing else in her eyes.
But something about the idea of their being a neither appealed to her.
That had been the catalyst. After asking around, she had learned that there was in fact a third gender. Actually, there were multiple genders. An elder had told her a story about a tom who was born a she-cat. A queen had mentioned that there was a cat who was both a tom and a she-cat.
A warrior had mentioned that there was a cat they knew that was neither.
Non-binary had been what the warrior called it.
That had been a moon ago. Now, Primrosepaw was here at a creek, staring down at the dandelion she had been given.
Who are you?
The question had nagged her for almost eight seasons at this point. No matter what she had done, she could never answer the question. Tonight however… tonight felt different. Tonight was the first night she felt like she truly had an answer to the question. Looking down at her reflection, the brown tabby she-cat closed her eyes.
“Who am I?” She asked, letting the words she had wondered for so long be spoke. “I am Primrosepaw. The child of Puddleflower and Littlestep, the sibling of Dripkit, the former apprentice of Dawnlight, and the current apprentice of Orchidshade.”
The pause hung heavy in the air as Primrosepaw took a deep breath. With open eyes, Primrosepaw placed the flower in the creek, watching as it drifted down the creek and out of sight.
“I am Primrosepaw, and I am non-binary.”
Character views Starclan and the current Redwoodclan plot: Primrosepaw is... interesting. Most of their conflict is within them, or her as she has yet to fully grasp her identity. As a warning, I will be referring to her as them in this, but they are still using she/her as of now.
Primrosepaw is self conscious and shy, and as such both of these prevent them from speaking up. Despite this, they do have their own thoughts about what is going on. They are scared of the sickness, as many cats are, but their fear comes mainly from the way they see the clan starting to splinter. While not particularly good at planning ahead, they know that the clan splintering into factions is a horrific idea. They're scared.
With the stories they've been told about the LichenClan battle fresh in their mind, they are terrified of the divide growing to the point that other clans notice and decide to take advantage of that. With Finchstar losing his entire family, the moggy is worried that he will make the rift worse. They don't hate him, in fact they feel bad for him, but they are worried about how his mental state will affect the clan.
As for StarClan, Prim doesn't really know if they truly believe or not. On one hand, they find comfort in the idea of there being a group of ancestors that guide their paws, but on the other their view has been tainted by the stories they've been told about LichenClan's obsession with StarClan. If StarClan was really good, why would such terrible cats worship them? If the stories of StarClan their mother told them were correct, then Prim has to wonder if they are even real. After all, if they were supposed to be good and loving, why would StarClan let this happen?
If they were to be given a sign or a reason to believe, they'd be willing to change their views, but as of now, they think it is a nice idea, but they don't believe that they're truly real. Just a nice story for kits.
How will this character's relationship with Starclan and the other Medicine Cats benefit Redwoodclan and the other RWC HPs? Their relationship with StarClan does not really have any benefits unless you count the fact that they're willing to do everything without the aid of StarClan beneficial. As for their relationship with the other medicine cats....
Cinderface- Primrosepaw is terrified of Cinderface. They feel like they cannot trust a cat so obsessed with StarClan. Their relationship would be exceptionally tense, with Prim not speaking much to her at first. That relationship has two outcomes. Either their seeming respect for Cinderface will help the clan by making Cinderface more interested in helping them, or it will make Cinderface hate the clan even more. I believe that they coming out as non-binary would change the relationship as well, possibly hindering the clan.
Briarpaw- This is where Prim may be able to help the clan. They would be a bit worried about Briarpaw at first, but would quickly grow to respect the she cat. They'd hopefully grow close to her, and maybe even mention their fear of LichenClan's zealots. This would depend on Briarpaw, but if told, Primrosepaw would be more than willing to help the rebellion in any way they can. This would lead to cats in LC possibly thinking that they owe RWC a favor. Either way, Prim would hopefully form a good relationship with Briarpaw which would lead to there being a potential alliance between them, or at the very least a link that could get. them new herbs.
Shadepaw- I genuinely believe these two would get along great. They have a very similar personality and if Primrosepaw were to meet him, they'd probably perk up immediately. I can see them becoming platonic soulmates of a sort with Shadepaw if given the chance, which would lead to them coming out to Shade first. This close bond could lead to an alliance or maybe a chance to trade herbs more and more. Furthermore, if they were to become exceptionally close, I can easily see Prim using this to foster peace between the two clans. They want peace.
Aster- While not an official med cat, I feel like I should include her. Prim would probably be terrified of her at first, but after realizing that she has wisdom and isn't out to hurt cats, they'd warm up to her. This could lead to Prim learning more healing techniques which could lead to more effective cures.
As a rule, I believe that Primrosepaw's relationship with StarClan would lead them to provide the clan and the other HPs with practical advice instead of what they think StarClan may want. Of course, this would be after they finally grow into their fur, but after that they will be blunt but kind. If Finchstar asked them who they thought would make the best deputy, they'd tell him outright. No fluff, no "StarClan says", just what. they think.
With their relationship with the other med cats.... most of it depends on the role play but I believe the ability to trade herbs and healing techniques would be the most likely advantages- hell, I can see them growing so close with Shadepaw in particular that they may be able to convince the tom to come help the clan if need be. Best case scenario, they'd be able to help foster peace between all clans.
Character Plot Plans: This is where things really get interesting.
As of now, Primrosepaw identifies as a she-cat, but they aren't happy. Well, that's a bit harsh. They aren't depressed (at least not yet), but they aren't happy. They're tired. It's like that feeling you get when you get a bad grade and a good grade hanged to you at the same time. Mixed. Currently, they have no idea as to what might be wrong with them. Actually, they don't even know if they have anything wrong with them in the first place.
They're confused.
This confusion will continue to grow and grow, as shown in the RP sample. Depression will start to set in at around thirteen moons, but will not be enough to prevent them from doing their job. Their self consciousness on the other paw... that may hinder them. Well, hinder is a strong word. With their self doubt, they'd be afraid that they'd be treating cats wrong all the time. They'd stick close to Orchidshade, which may eventually cause some friction between them. Still, they wouldn't give up and despite their personal issues, they'd continue to help.
Their journey of self discovery is going to last a while. It's a slow burn plot, with them asking everyone who they think they are. This could lead them to being manipulated by a cat fairly easily (looking at you Icesong). Other effects on the clan are all up to each and individual cat, but I can see it deepening the rift in the clan, especially the one that seems to be growing between the regular cats and the high positions. I would actually love to see there be a sickness in RWC that Primrosepaw freezes up in or messes up somehow and they end up being blamed by the clan. Plots about the clan not trusting them would be exceptionally easy to work into their character.
I want them to lose a cat earlier on. I want them to freeze when they see someone sick or injured. I want them to be seen as untrustworthy.
The slow-burn plot of them finding themselves will lead to them pushing their warrior/med cat ceremony off for a while. They don't think they deserve a full name until they determine exactly who they are, and this will cause issues with some cats. I want there to be a big fight between them and their mentor that ends with them running off and meeting Captain's cat Songbird if they aren't in the clan. If they are in the clan and/or a RWC cat who identifies as non binary and goes by they/them is made, then this plot will shift to them not knowing whether or not they are truly NB or if they just aren't comfortable with themself.
Eventually, they will have their massive moment and will tell their mentor and loved ones and ask Finchstar to make an announcement to the clan after a while.
The day after they get their full name or the day before... they will be attacked and crippled by Vixen. The full extent of the damage is yet to be determined, but it will mess them up. Not only will they now have to deal with learning to deal with their new disabilities and if they were a warrior their new role (as they will not be able to continue to be a warrior after that), but an attack that bad would leave any normal person with severe anxiety and PTSD, let alone a moggy who spent their whole life trying to overcome their self doubt.
This will send them spiraling. As a medicine cat, they'd freeze up in treating more extensive injuries for a bit. They would retreat to the corner of the den and cry, believing that if they cannot heal even their own injuries, they can't heal any cat's injuries. This will also take a bit, but I believe that the main adverse effects will not last for too too long. They'd quickly learn to cope with healing others at least.
At this point, the plot could go three ways depending on Orchidshade. One, Prim would be dismissed to the elder den and would have to deal with the immense depression that comes with that. Two, Orchidshade temporarily dismisses Prim, not making them an elder but allowing them a while to recover on their own. Three, Orchidshade doesn't dismiss them and actively helps them develop coping techniques.
Eventually, they will finally grow confident in who they are and accept that they have these disabilities and that does not change their worth. They will be truly happy and will help teach other cats how to cope with certain things and will all around be able to live their life without fear.
There are a few subplots I could include as well. They could develop a temporary crush on Briarpaw, they could accidentally hurt someone by healing them wrong... etc.
Name:Bombora Experience: None Character Name: Bouncepaw Character Application:BOUNCEPAW Position Desired: RedwoodClan Medicine Cat Apprentice IC Sample:
Ruefeather solemnly left the mouth of the medicine cat's den on a stormy winter's day. Bouncepaw watched the large black and white tom plod over the snow - ears folded back and tail flaccid. Even a mouse-brain like Bouncepaw could tell that there was a romantic friction between the heavy warrior and RedwoodClan's medicine cat apprentice. If Smallpaw showed any signs of recovery, Ruefeather would show it in his body language. She was already gone.
Bouncepaw's whiskers twitched with excitement in the showering snow.
The tabby knew that capitalizing on an opening left by a deceased clanmate was incorrigible. And yet, he felt so undeniably content. Why? His first thoughts were not of pity for Ruefeather's loss, nor mourning for Smallpaw's stolen life. The failure's focus was on the medicine cat position of all things. Had he so little empathy? Bouncepaw forced his tail down.
This was a chance. No, it was his only opportunity to grasp the glory he sought. There were as many warriors as there were stars in the night sky. Medicine cats were special. So I don't get visions! he thought. That doesn't disqualify me from trying, right? I'm going to give it my all! I'll show these feather-heads what a real medicine cat looks like! Bouncepaw didn't have the patience for hunting... maybe he'd eventually turn out to be a mediocre fighter, but he knew in his heart that he would curse himself until the day he died if he didn't at least try his paw at medicine. Bouncepaw would not be a bystander to the suffering of his clan. He was going to contribute now - not tomorrow - now.
It took every ounce of Bouncepaw's willpower not to leap and bound towards the medicine den. The fiery apprentice was spared from fox attacks, yellowcough and starvation. If that wasn't a sign, what was? If he wasn't supposed to do this now, then when? Bouncepaw's legs hurriedly carried him into the medicine den, its occupants so sick and delirious that they did not notice his presence.
Orchidshade would be broken from her miserable work by an oddly chipper-sounding tom. Bouncepaw's excitement defied the death and disease of the dark medicine den. He shined like the sun. "Orchidshade! I-I can get you some herbs! Do you need me to throw some webs on somebody?" he fumbled over his own mews. Determination practically poured out of the orange whelp.
"I will help you!" he demanded.
Character views Starclan and the current Redwoodclan plot:
Bouncepaw believes in StarClan, but doesn't seriously think about his faith all that much. He is too preoccupied with his own life to worry about whether or not he's appeasing StarClan. He views poor turns of fate such as bouts of starvation and sickness as natural coincidences that neither StarClan nor any other cat could ever influence. Bouncepaw just wants to live this life to the fullest. Because the tabby wants his name to be heard in legend, he is naturally disappointed that RedwoodClan loses so often to LichenClan. He wants to be the winner. Bouncepaw is perhaps selfish in his desire to become medicine cat, but even vanity can drive somebody to save lives. The more cats that are sick, the more work for him! Every life saved is a great victory!
How will this character's relationship with Starclan and the other Medicine Cats benefit Redwoodclan and the other RWC HPs?
Bouncepaw doesn't care about romance. Bouncepaw doesn't care about borders. Bouncepaw only cares about being the best. He will freely challenge medicine cats from other clans to see which of them is superior in the art of healing. Bouncepaw isn't like other medicine cats because... well, he's kind of dumb. He'll be the loudest cat at a gathering even if what he has to say isn't intelligent. Where he stumbles in smarts he more than makes up for in sheer effort and bluntness. Finchstar and Icesong wouldn't need to worry about betrayal or subterfuge from such a simple-minded herb machine in the medicine den so absorbed in his work. Orchidshade would have a very different kind of apprentice working under her, basically embodying the exact opposite traits of the black she-cat. Her cool collectedness contrasts with the tabby's bold disposition. They may both end up learning something from the other.
Character Plot Plans:
Not shaking things up right off the bat. Bouncepaw would finally get an environment where through repetition and relative solitude he can start picking up on medicine cat techniques. He won't be very good at it in the beginning at all, constantly forgetting which herb is for what illness. He may test some out on himself just to see what they do personally. Bouncepaw could receive dreams from StarClan to aid him in his medicine cat training.
Experience: None on this site; however, I do have experience in all high positions. Leader, deputy, and medicine cat participation over various warrior communities throughout the last ~10 years.
Position Desired: Thistleclan medicine cat apprentice
IC Sample: Sheets of snow blanketed the forest with mounds of eternal white. It coated the landscape in its monotony, the once luscious green-leaf lost to the early memories of Meadowpaw's kithood. She held no frame of reference for the turning of the seasons and so it felt as if leaf-bare had and would last until the end of all time. Little sound escaped the muffled woodlands, every action below the crystalized water hidden deep down beneath the surface world. The young molly's rounded ears perked themselves above the top of a fallen tree, the dark tips quivering in the frosty air as she listened for a shift in the snow. She'd lost her quarry already to the madness, her nose not yet knowing the difference between an old and new scent trail and making multiple mistakes along the way. With half a day's worth of backtracking; however, she'd rediscovered the faint scent marks of her rabbit and was on the move once more.
A barely audible crunch to her left made Meadowpaw turn sharply and with an intense look pooling in the depths of her blue eyes, she stared until the dry air made her blink. There; the faintest shift in the snow and yet one that marked the difference between starvation and salvation. Quickly scrambling for all the training Thunderfoot had given her, Meadowpaw ticked off the boxes in her head as she stalked around the log she hid behind. ‘Stay low. Go slow. Know when to go.’ She’d taught herself the saying after several different methods had failed her, each attempted hunt ending in her failure over avoidable mistakes.
This time however she was ready for the rabbit and held her small body low to the ground, her mostly white fur blending in beautifully to the surrounding snowscape. Though the rumbling in her stomach insisted she pick up the pace; Meadowpaw remained patient as she crept around the fallen tree. There; only a few fox-lengths away stood her prey. Nose quivering, Meadowpaw hesitated; unsure if she should inch closer or make a dash for it. This part always eluded her, the natural instinct to know when the right time to strike seemed a trait she had yet to pick up. Her inexperience did not deter her however and with a deep breath the molly took her chances and gave chase.
Character Personal Plot Plans: Born beneath the guise of pure Thistleclan blood running within their veins, Meadowkit and Cedarkit were initially welcomed into their clan openly as the next generation of warriors. Shortly before her apprentice ceremony however, her sister was kidnapped by their rogue father and for her negligence, Birchsong was banished. Through her extended family's advocacy and adopted father’s insistence, Meadowkit was saved from a similar fate and remained within the clan.
As she grows, Meadowpaw will discover a passion for becoming an advocate for half-clan cats. She feels it’s unfair to judge another by who they are related to and instead an individual's merit should warrant their value to the clan and those around them. She will be very outspoken about her support towards the other clans, particularly Redwoodclan and their struggle against Lichenclan’s persecution. After learning more about Lichenclan’s lifestyle she will also advocate for their own freedom, believing the cat’s within the clan are in need of saving against a tyrannical regime. She will largely blame the clan’s leadership for not working together, their inability to support one another inevitably leading to the escalation of both the rogue and Minnowstar problem. Meadowpaw truly believes through hard work and understanding, the island can become a more peaceful place but only through cross-clan trust and cooperation. I expect her to get a lot of push back from these ideals however once she discovers her passion for peace, it’ll be hard for anyone to deter her from her mission.
With Birchsong’s banishment and Cedarkit’s kidnapping I’d also like for Meadowpaw to discover them along the line and try to encourage them to rejoin the clan however it’s unsure how successful she will be. There may be conflict between her and her long lost sister at that point or conflict between Meadowpaw and the clan should leadership not want to take either of them back into Thistleclan’s ranks.
Character views on Starclan: Meadowpaw is a vehement believer in Starclan and feels their ancestors connect them across clan borders. She isn’t pushy about her faith and doesn’t believe in persuading others towards believing or worshiping Starclan but rather feels every cat is entitled to their own personal views about it. Meadowpaw is of the thought Starclan is a forgiving, loving presence that is there to help the living when needed and therefore would not care if every cat believed in them or not. It is because Starclan consists of cats from all clans that she feels the living should be more kind to one another; they all die and join the same clan in the sky one day so starting wars while alive doesn’t make much sense in her eyes. A large part of her feels Lichenclan is to blame for most cats being uninterested in Starclan, their fear mongering and persecution for the sake of the island’s ‘purity’ casting a dark cloud over what should be a joyous connection to those who have passed.
Despite her belief Starclan is there to guide and not harm them, Meadowpaw will personally have issues dealing with any signs or dreams they may send to her. A cryptic message sent in a dream could be interpreted in many different ways and she’d struggle to find what is relevant or vital in a prophecy or omen. Likewise she would easily confuse dreams that hold no relevance at all as messages sent to her and only muddy the water’s further in the event she and the other medicine cats were trying to work through what the future holds for them and their clans. Meadowpaw would find herself obsessing over prophecies and their meanings; often insisting she commune with Starclan as much as she can to determine what it is their ancestors want from her even if there was no message directed towards her specifically at all.
How will this character encourage Shadepool to grow as a Medicine Cat?: As a kit, Meadowpaw was tended to by Shadepool when she was sick. She has a healthy respect for the tom and feels a kinship towards him even at her young age. Her belief in him will blossom under his direction, resulting in her assistance with him gaining more confidence not only in his skills but himself as a whole. She will feel it’s important to remind him of all that he has done for the clan when he’s feeling down, her polite and light way of speaking never making him feel pressured or harassed while also provided him with the companionship he has been denied being the medicine cat of a clan that doesn’t necessarily believe in the importance of such a title.
With his patience and support, Shadepool will foster confidence and self-respect within Meadowpaw; in turn providing him with the proof he is indeed not only a worthy medicine cat but also a damn good one. Her own convictions and belief in standing up for what she believes in could help Shadepool become a stronger individual; one who is not easily pushed around or made fun of by those who wish to do him harm.
How will Shadepool encourage this character to grow as a MCA: Initially Meadowpaw will have several problems misdiagnosing illnesses and injury, her indecisiveness reflecting in her herb choices when it comes to treating patience. She will have issues jumping into action when needed quickly; her self-doubt giving rise to inaction until she learns the proper way to do things. Should she choose one herb over the other, what if it doesn't work? How much should she dose a cat - based on weight? age? Sensitivity? What if it doesn’t work at all? She’d need to be taught the same lesson multiple times to build up her knowledge as a medicine cat apprentice and will constantly be asking questions throughout her training. Shadepool being the kind, patient cat that he is will help foster confidence within Meadowpaw and help her understand, diagnose, and treat symptoms effectively.
In addition to his general know-how, Shadepool’s involvement with clan politics will offer Meadowpaw an insight into the world of interclan relations and help spark her desire for change within how the clans approach problems that affect the island as a whole. His past experiences helping Redwoodclan and Lichenclan’s medicine cats and vice versa will teach her the importance of how far peace can get you - invigorating her passion for being an outspoken advocate for cross-clan relations and half-clan cats.
How does this character view Thistleclan and its other HPs: Meadowpaw holds a deep love for her clan and home, the stories of how they lost it and got it back before her birth lessons in patience and fortitude. For this reason she hopes Thistleclan never loses their home again however within the clan she feels in part out of place. Based on how loosely most Thistleclan cats take the warrior code, it is easy to assume she is not the only half-clan cat amongst the crowd. This however; does not negate the ridicule thrown her way for who her parents are and the shame she now wields despite having nothing to do with her creation. For this reason, Meadowpaw will hope to enlighten those around her to a more open-hearted understanding of the other cats her clan shares the islands with and would use her position to the benefit of her cause.
To Stagflight, she has neutral feelings towards, having no personal conflict with him outside of his general belief outsiders are not to be trusted. Unless directly confronted by the deputy, Meadowpaw hopes to prove she can be trusted despite his prejudice against half her bloodline. I’d ideally like to build up a kinship between Stagflight and Meadowpaw. With him being the future leader, she’d like to be able to change his viewpoints enough to sway him towards helping other clans; not leaving them to the wolves.
To Thievingstar, Meadowpaw is not the biggest fan of the leader. She feels it was hypocritical of Thievingstar to banish Birchsong and holds the molly directly responsible for the breaking of her family. Once she finds confidence in herself, Meadowpaw will openly argue with her leader on how to approach clan politics, believing it's better to help one another than leave each other to their own conflicts. Meadowpaw has a lot to prove given she is only half clan cat however her moral compass triumphs over any fear she may harbor when it comes to the moody leader.
Post by Silverfire on Jan 14, 2022 17:39:00 GMT -6
Name: Silverfire Experience: None here Character Name: Flarepaw Character Application:Flarepaw Position Desired: ThistleClan Medicine cat Apprentice IC Sample: Flarepaw’s lips pulled back into a snarl as she stared at the piles of herbs in front of her. The once neat piles had been destroyed by who knows what, and with Shadepool out for the day, she knew she needed to get to sorting. She couldn’t have her mentor thinking she wasn’t good enough to teach. ‘Not like it’d matter if you sorted herbs or not. He’ll still realize you’re useless sooner or later.’
Flarepaw flinched, her paws hovering over the pile of herbs in front of her. “N-no. I’m not useless. I can do this,” she mumbled to herself, quickly taking a leaf from the top of the pile and sniffing it. What herb was this again? It smelled tangy. Was it catnip? No, that smelled really good.
The torbie’s heart began to race as she realized she couldn’t remember what herb was in front of her. Why couldn’t she remember what the herb was?! She needed to remember what it was! Gritting her teeth, she sniffed it again. Nothing.
‘Why are you surprised? You knew you’d never be good at this.’ Flarepaw’s ears pinned back as she stared at the herb. Was is marigold? Dock? She had no idea. In fact, as she gazed upon the pile, she found herself unable to determine what herb was what.
“Flarepaw.”
Flarepaw’s head shot up as she recognized her mother’s voice. Spinning around, the small molly attempted to sweep her the mess behind her as she turned to face the large, imposing figure of her mother. “Hello, Redfang,” she greeted, dipping her head towards her mother, wincing at the disgusted look she was given.
“I should’ve known you were going to be messy. Shadepool has no idea how to teach properly.”
Looking down, she lowered her ears. “S-sorry. The wind must’ve destroyed them and-“
“Sorry doesn’t work. You need to do better. Be better. The fact that you’re still here is a travesty. You have my blood running through your veins. You need to be strong. A warrior.”
“B-but-“
“No buts. Do better. You won’t go anywhere like this.”
Flarepaw meekly lowered her head into a nod as her mother shot the area another disgusted look before storming out. Letting out a sad, heavy sigh, the torbie turned around, looking back at her herbs. With little enthusiasm, she started sorting things into piles. Opting to sort them into piles of herbs that look similar, she blinked back tears.
Leaf after leaf was placed in pile after pile. Occasionally, she’d remember what herb was what. She’d remember that the herb with small blue flowers was borage and that the small fuzzy leaves were raspberry leaves, but by the end of the day, she spent more time making the piles look pretty. It was mind numbing work. Look, sort, clean up. Look, sort, clean up. There was nothing taxing to it. It allowed her to zone out for a while.
The crunch of footsteps behind her caused her to turn. She watched as her mentor’s black head popped in. Forcing the hurt down, she huffed. “Finally! You messed up the herbs when you left- you’re lucky I’m here to help you,” she quipped, nose wrinkling in disgust. “Honestly, I don’t know how you managed by yourself. Being taught by a rogue… at least you made a good choice in making me your apprentice. You’re not useless yet.” The words came out easy, slipping from her tongue as she fell back into her arrogance. Redfang said Shadepool was weak and useless. So he was weak and useless.
It didn’t matter that Redfang also thought Flarepaw was weak and useless. All that mattered was that she got attention from being mean.
Character Personal Plot Plans: Flarepaw doesn’t really have many plot plans as compared to my other cats. Not one for going out and causing trouble on purpose, Flarepaw’s personal plots would revolve more around her own interactions with others. Her arrogance and tendency to look down upon other cats would make for fascinating plots, and I plan to play into that fact.
However, at some point, I’d want her to incorrectly treat a patient in a way that causes harm or almost causes harm. Perhaps by refusing to listen to Shadepool’s lessons about one specific ailment, perhaps by refusing to listen to the patient themselves. This would give her cause to realize that she isn’t infallible, and would motivate her to discover why she truly enjoys healing.
Perhaps she could one day confront her parents, finally explaining to them that she isn’t a weak burden and just because she isn’t some ultra strong warrior who attacks others doesn’t mean she’s not strong in her own ways. Of course, this would most likely happen with her begging Shadepool to come with.
Character views on Starclan: As odd as it may seem with her arrogance, Flarepaw doesn’t really believe in StarClan. At least, not as much as one would expect a medicine cat to believe in StarClan. Seeing them as nothing but the echoes of those once living, she doesn’t trust their judgement on much. In fact, she’d be much more likely to use her own judgement, ie choose something for her own benefit.
How will this character encourage Shadepool to grow as a Medicine Cat?: With her arrogance and her insistence that she is in the right for most things, she would encourage Shadepool to grow in more… unorthodox ways. She wouldn’t be encouraging. She wouldn’t be outright discouraging either however. Her arrogance, self importance, and insistence that she is right would help to encourage Shadepool to stand up for himself more. In turn, if cats see him being more strict and harsh with his apprentice, this could help him gain more respect from others (Bouncepaw in particular being one that clearly has no respect for the tom). It might teach him that having a heavy paw can work, and could help his timidness.
I also think her complex issues of abandonment and attention starvation would provide an interesting challenge for him to unravel, perhaps even helping him learn more about how his position as a medicine cat doesn’t necessarily have to be all about physical healing- perhaps it also includes mental healing.
How will Shadepool encourage this character to grow as a MCA: Shadepool wouldn’t just help Flarepaw to grow as a medicine cat apprentice- he’d help her grow as a cat. Arrogant, feisty, and a bit of a bully, Flarepaw would be hard to work with. For a while, she’d probably do a lot of refusing to truly listen to him. The awe and curiosity she will have when first given this position will fade quickly, replaced with her belief that she already knows things. Sure, she’s not arrogant to the point of stupid- she’ll allow him to teach her what her does what- but that would always be accompanied by the words “I knew that, I just wanted to see if you did” or “just what I thought”.
Shadepool’s timidness wouldn’t do much for a while. She’d look down at him. After all. He learned from rogues. However, after the failed attempted to treat a patient and the consequences of her actions come clear… she’d calm down. Over time, Shadepool’s calm tone, the opposite of her own, would soothe her. Leading her to realize that she doesn’t know everything. Simple and cliche as it sounds, she’d grow patient. Calm. Her love of bossing others around will lower, leaving her to realize that what she really enjoyed about all of this was the fact that she could heal.
He’d help her to realize that listening to other cats, medicine cats or otherwise, will lead to better results. She’ll learn that listening to patients would be better than assuming she knows better. Her desire to heal isn’t false. Just misguided, and Shadepool and his calm, genuine personality will help her to realize her full potential.
How does this character view Thistleclan and its other HPs: As arrogant as she is, Flarepaw believes that ThistleClan is the absolute best. LichenClan? Please. They banished a cat for sneezing! RedwoodClan? They suffered an attack by LichenClan and did nothing! ThistleClan though- they took down an army of rogues that stole their home! They don’t deal with cats who put their kits in danger- banishing Birchsong and continuing to look for Cedarkit! They were awesome!
Of course, she doesn’t really remember the fight with the rogues. She was still a kit. Her thoughts on how the clan are have been tainted by the fanatics of the clan. Those who believe ThistleClan has done no wrong- similarly to her father. She’s unaware of the confusion that happened during the flood.
Very traditional, she believes that ThistleClan warriors are tough, rogue despising, hardened warriors who won’t flinch at anything. And she, is their honorable medicine cat.
Perhaps a bit willfully ignorant, the molly doesn’t know about the true threat that Lily is. She’s not aware of the fact that they stayed at the Owl Tree.
Of course, supporting the clan doesn’t mean supporting the state of it, nor does it mean supporting the high positions.
Flarepaw believes the clan is weak. The cats there don’t know what they’re talking about. She sees certain cats doing nothing. She sees others caught up in themselves and spending too much time fighting each other. The clan doesn’t represent her vision of what it should be, and she doesn’t like it.
She hates how Birchsong was allowed to lose Cedarkit. She thinks it shows how weak the clan is. She’s proud that they beat the rogues, but thinks they need to go and eliminate them entirely. She’s pretty vicious for a medicine cat.
Theivingstar It’s always nice to see strong she-cats in power. I just wish she had the same conviction she likes to portray.
Never spending much time with the leader, Flarepaw’s opinions of her come from two places. Her apprentice ceremony and her parents. She believes Theivingstar to be the best leader alive right now. Granted, that isn’t saying much since the stories she grew up with painted Finchstar as a sniveling coward who had no idea how to lead and Minnowstar as a crazy, insane she-cat who thought she was made of stardust and that everyone else was a sinner.
From the few interactions she’s had with Thievingstar, she finds the black molly to be one who won’t go the distance. She thinks Thievingstar is quick to anger, but isn’t able to channel that anger into attacks quick enough. While unaware of the full circumstances behind it, she thinks Theivingstar should’ve attacked the rogues the moment she learned that they were staying in camp. She thinks Thievingstar should lead an attack on the rogues immediately.
While currently too young to understand the hypocrisy of Thievingstar, along with her other flaws, she will eventually notice them, leading to her opinion of the leader souring. I believe that they would bump heads quite a bit, as Flarepaw truly believes herself to be better than anyone and will not hesitate to call the leader out for not doing what she thinks is the right choice, not caring about the reason behind Thievingstar’s choice, nor the cats who she may anger. She may think the Thievingstar is the best of the three leaders around currently, but that doesn’t mean she thinks Thievingstar is exceptional.
Stagflight He’s pretty nice- just wish he’d do something that made him interesting.
With him being more on the side of just trying to be a good deputy and trying to keep the clan running smoothly, Flarepaw doesn’t really have much of an opinion on the tom. She’s heard the gossip that his relationship with his daughters was strained of course, but she never paid it that much thought.
Truth be told, she barely thinks of the tom as deputy. Just another cat. She finds him to be nice, of course. Perhaps too nice and helpful for a ThistleClan cat, but she doesn’t particularly care all that much. Oh he came to watch her train once when she had just became an apprentice. Whoop-de-doo. To her, he’s just… there. Giving patrols and doing deputy things. And maybe trying to awkwardly talk to cats.
Settling into her new rank however, will lead her to being around him more often. She’ll immediately try to take advantage of the kindness she perceives him to have. She’ll try to get him to do things for her. Fetch prey and so forth. Treating him like her own apprentice will not go over well, and Flarepaw will quickly grow to despise the tom, thinking that he thinks himself better than her. She’ll make snide remarks about him, upset that she couldn’t push him around like she does everyone else.
Shadepool Ugh. This wimp is seriously my mentor? What happened to being ThistleClan?!
Flarepaw… doesn’t like Shadepool to put it nicely. Growing up learning about how ThistleClan warriors are supposed to were supposed to be strong and brave, she sees Shadepool as the opposite of what any good ThistleClan cat should be. Weak. Timid. Trained by a rogue. She thinks he’s easily the worst cat in the clan, and after the high of being chosen to be the next medicine cat wears off, she’ll start to make pretty nasty comments towards him.
Comments about how he’s weak. About how she knows she’s a better medicine cat than him. Petty things that are clearly bullying. She doesn’t like him. She thinks it’s beneath her to actual listen to someone who acted more like a queen or a kit than a high ranking member of the clan. Sure she’ll begrudgingly do it, but not without snide comments about how much better she is than him.
This will change when she fails to treat a patient. She’ll start seeing Shadepool in a different light after that. The horrible things she said to him will come and haunt her, especially as she watches the tom fix her mistakes. She’ll slowly come to realize that there is strength in being quiet. That not constantly bragging doesn’t mean one is insignificant. She’ll grow to respect him, leading towards her making serious attempts to mend the cracks in the relationship her arrogance will rightly cause.
i apologize now for how long this is (now with added scroll bar!)
Name: Owl Experience: None on TA! I have roleplayed a medicine cat apprentice and also a leader on other sites, though both not for very long due to the sites growing inactive. I’ve been roleplaying on forums for… coming up on 5 years now? Ever since I was legally allowed to make an account on proboards xD Character Name: Petuniapaw Character Application:Petuniapaw Position Desired: Thistleclan medicine cat apprentice IC Sample:
"You know, they said you didn't talk a lot, but I really thought you'd say more."
Petuniapaw's ear flicked in response, but they didn't turn their head to look at the grouchy calico settled in a nest behind them. They were looking for the right herbs to treat her, and concentrating, and yet the molly seemed to want to talk more than be healed. Maybe she was expecting Shadepool. Her mentor was out looking for cobwebs in some of the old twoleg dens—and she had been tasked with watching the medicine den, as well as re-sorting old herbs. They had been confident enough to pick out bad leaves from still usable ones, but they weren't completely totally sure on how to treat Cherrybite. So they were guilty of stalling a little. The warrior had complained of slipping on some ice and twisting her paw, the same one she had previously injured in the flood that had destroyed the camp they now sat in.
That was before she had even been born. And its effects are still things we have to treat. Her eyes rose to peer at one of the other shelves, still searching. She hadn't memorized the places where each herb was yet, and she was looking for a specific two. "I say what I need to say," they meowed, gaze never leaving the dull greens of the herbs they looked upon. That seemed to satisfy Cherrybite, as she let out a humorous little scoff, and then fell quiet for a few more moments. They could sense her piercing eyes still on the back of their head—but they took their time. Petuniapaw was just about to reach up to pluck some herbs from the shelf when the molly continued, "I would really appreciate it if you did hurry up a bit, I don't have all day."The tabby paused, thinking. She's quite rude isn't she?
They stayed silent, gathering up the herbs at a purposefully slow, careful pace, before making their way over to their patient. She looked Cherrybite in the eye after she placed the medicine down. "Poppy seeds, for the pain. I'm sure you're familiar," they nosed a few of the small black seeds towards the other cat. Next were two larger, slightly waxy, dull green leaves. Elder tree leaves. She remembered that Shadepool had told her they were for sprains—which might not be what Cherrybite was suffering from, but it wouldn't hurt her to use them just in case. Since Thistleclan had both their own gathered herbs and some left behind by the rogues that had lived in their camp—she was curious about that, where did they learn to heal?—they had plenty enough to last them the leafbare.
"And these are elder leaves. You can chew them up and put them on your paw, and it should help soothe it," She liked to make a note to tell the cats she was healing what they were being given, and what it did. Since maybe they'd remember—and it could help later. You never knew if Thistleclan was going to suddenly lose their medicine cat again... Cherrybite gave them a look. "You're the medicine cat here, kit, I don't want to chew any herbs. I have to get back to work, I said I'd join a border patrol before sundown." Petuniapaw tried her best not to sigh. She admired the work ethic of some of Thistleclan's warriors—but really, they needed to know when to take a break for their own well being. And to do as their medicine cat told them.
The blue tabby looked looked at the molly right back. She knew that she had to be tough with this kind of cat... or else she wouldn't take her seriously. "Well, you're not. The poppy seeds will make you tired, so you're going to go and lie in your den and rest until tomorrow. Or else you'll just hurt your paw worse. And you'll chew the leaves up when you get there, so they don't all fall off you on the walk," they meowed firmly. "Unless you want to stay in here with me so I have to watch you and chew your all herbs for you like a kitten, that's what I'd recommend." Cherrybite had a look on her face that Petuniapaw had never seen before. They were almost worried they'd been too harsh, and the warrior was going to leap up and claw their ears off, suddenly not hurt at all. Mousedung—
But then Cherrybite laughed. "Ha. Fine. You've got some spunk telling me that, kit, but I'm not gonna make you kitsit me." The small warrior got to her paws after lapping up the poppy seeds, and picked up the herbs. Petuniapaw moved out of her way. "I'll come check on you," they called to the molly as she made her way out of the den, hobbling to avoid putting weight on her injured paw. I'd offer her help in getting back to her den, but I have a feeling she'd be more offended by me saying that then what I said before."If you aren't there when I look, I'll hunt you down and find someone to come sit on you 'til you heal!" The mink cat looked back at that, a sharp smile flashing over her shoulder and through the herbs. But she didn't say anything, just gave her tail a wave, before continuing on her way.
Petuniapaw felt a tiny bit of relieved weight lift off of their back. Somehow, they'd gotten a cat that seemed very uncooperative with listening to the commands of a healer to cooperate. Somehow. But they felt as if they'd discovered more insight than just that in the process. I understand not wanting to feel like you're useless. But you can't always be going and working all the time. You're of more help to the clan if you can let yourself rest when you're hurt... so you can heal and continue to help them in the future. They smiled a little, before turning back to their shelves and piles of herbs and roots and seeds. Maybe I need to do that.
Character Personal Plot Plans: My personal plot plans for Petunia are for her to begin to cut herself some slack, and be able to forgive herself. She had always had a lot of pressure on her shoulders put upon her by their mothers, and being the eldest of her siblings she was expected to be the responsible one. After both blaming herself and some of their her blaming her for her brother's death, she has internalized it and believes she was the cause. This will be addressed more in the later section of how Shadepool would help her grow, since he will likely have a big role to play in her becoming more confident and sure of herself.
Touching upon Thistleclan's intertwined tale with the rogues, Petuniapaw currently doesn't believe that all rogues are evil. They knows that there's more to the world than black and white, especially knowing about Aster having helped to teach Shadepool. She can't be evil because of that. I want them to seek out opinions within the clan, and try and gauge where exactly everything started. Mostly by listening, as they aren't that much of a talker. I could also see them eventually trying to approach rogues (and loners, too) to actually ask for their opinions. I think she'd view battle and bloodshed as a temporary solution, and not one Thistleclan can rely on for long. Just look at Redwoodclan and Lichenclan—they don't want their clan to follow in those pawsteps.
Overall I'd like for Petunia to develop into a very rocklike, sensible figure in the clan. I want her to be seen as that—someone approachable and non-judgemental to come if you have something to talk about, and get some advice if you wanted it. Just a shoulder to cry on and vent to. She could become some sort of level-headed mediator within the clan to deal with issues cats have between themselves (or simply within their own self), maybe best described as a therapist-like cat, healing both the body and the mind in the best way they can. Since Thistleclan looks like it needs one, pfft.
Also, depending on whether or not Petunia's family gets adopted out, that would be a plot that would very much affect Pet's development! Since I'd plan to decide with the adopters where exactly the family's story leads, I can't predict what will happen with it here. Also, since Pet would have been an apprentice for 3 moons, I'd like to find them an IC mentor who they can have some kind of relationship with. Hopefully a friendship or supportive role that would carry on despite them being made medicine cat apprentice, since they don't especially need any more grief.
Character views on Starclan: Pet is currently Starclan neutral, with a positive lean. Their parents had a general belief in Starclan and taught their kits about it, but Pet never put much thought into it until they became an apprentice. Because the rest of the clan doesn't seem to be too impressed with Starclan, they mostly keep to themself about their beliefs. It's also possible her mentor was more Starclan-neutral or negative, giving them doubts to their existence. After her brother's death, however, she's much more inclined to believe in the afterlife so she can be comforted knowing that he lives on in some way. But the "logical" part of her brain tells her that she can't just believe in something unless she has proof. She also looks to the so-called petty war that Lichenclan and Redwoodclan have, and knows that their religion is the cause of that. They overall would like to believe in Starclan, but want more evidence that a) they exist and b) they are a benevolent force in the clan's lives. I very much plan for her opinions to shift and change depending on what happens in roleplay, and who she interacts with.
As for if she took on the medicine cat apprentice role and got to interact with Starclan first hand, she would take her responsibility very seriously. They know how much trust the stars would have to had put in them, and they would do their darnedest to interpret the messages as they had been intended. She would tell Shadepool about it as soon as she could (possibly the other hps too, depending on how she would think they'd react), and talk about it with them as to get as many opinions and brains on it as possible. They would definitely encourage their mentor to do the same, since if Starclan's trying to help them, they have to do their part.
There may come some trouble with their imagination, as interpreting messages likely requires reflection and emotional investment, and Pet usually tries to find a surefire route of doing things without added any added feeling. I can see them struggling to think outside of the box, and be stuck in a certain way of doing things. As soon as someone gets her to make the connection between logical thinking and needing to know all sides of the story, that will really resonate with Pet and get her to understand why there's never one path to reach a goal, and even then, there may never be only one answer for any question.
How will this character encourage Shadepool to grow as a Medicine Cat?: I think Pet would be a very steady, reliable source of encouragement for Shadepool. She would be honest, and able to talk him down and out of any doubts he may have in himself or in his abilities. Since no matter how much she down talks herself, she won't let another cat do it to their own self. Even at the beginning, she would very much believe in Shadepool—and make it clear to him that the rest of the clan believes in him too, as well as Starclan. And that she'll always be around to help.
I do think at the start, Petuniapaw will be colder to him than they would be in future moons—mainly due to their state of grief, getting adjusted to their new role, and also not knowing the medicine cat all that well. They don't have much of an opinion on him coming into things, he's simply Thistleclan's young medicine cat, and they were a healthy kit so didn't have much reason to have gotten to know him. But Pet definitely has a respect for him and his tenacity, being so young and taking on his role without the traditional mentor to guide him. They may not notice how distant they're being, but Shadepool would be able to bring out the best in them as well as anyone else could. And hopefully, Pet will be able to do the same for him.
How will Shadepool encourage this character to grow as a MCA: Shadepool's knowledge and patience will be able to plant and grow confidence in Pet that she wouldn't be able to achieve alone. They kinda both seem like the kind of cats that give a lot more than they get, so they can both help each other out and have each other's backs. At first, Petuniapaw will find it hard to ask questions and for help from her mentor. She's used to being the teacher, and the one with all the answers, due to being a few moons older than her siblings. Even despite having been a warrior apprentice for a little while, she always knew the basics of a hunting crouch and a paw strike. She doesn't really know the first thing about telling basil from borage, and she knows Shadepool is super busy, and she should know those things. Having always had high expectations for herself, and put upon her, she may start to crumble under the pressure of unfamiliar tasks.
Eventually, she'll have to realize that her mentor is here to help her just as much as she's around to help him. Since technically speaking, they're meant to be his replacement, not just his helper—but with how young Shadepool is, that didn't really register to them at first. It'll take some trial and error over the moons, but as her skill in medicine grows, and her relationship with Shadepool strengthens, her confidence in herself will grow and she'll finally begin to find that place in the clan that she's been looking for. And Shade would have had a big ol' part in that.
How does this character view Thistleclan and its other HPs: Petuniapaw has really no reason to dislike Thievingstar or Stagflight. She isn't at the stage where she questions authority, but she does wonder about how reliable Thievingstar is. Some of the events that have happened just in her lifetime (Thievingstar's rogue mate joining the clan, and the exile of Birchsong), have… quite conflicting messages in Pet's mind. They would probably grow to want to advise their leader to be more consistent with her actions, so the clan doesn't begin to doubt her or call her a hypocrite. Whether or not Thieving would entertain the idea is up to Bandit xD
She would overall have a neutral respect for Stag. He seems to be a good guy, and had to have been made deputy for a reason. I don't think Pet would like the fact that he's on "okay" terms with his daughters, especially as he's their only living parent. With Pet being estranged from one of her mothers, she knows how it feels to "lose" a parent but have them still be alive, and would be honest and encourage him to either repair or start a relationship with his kin. She'd likely also reach out to Tawnyfire and Pinestride in order to see their opinions on this—knowing there's no use for Stagflight to try if they don't want to know him, and wanting to take all parties' wants into account. They may also encourage him to be more sure of himself, but that'd depend on how well they'd know him and how close they got.
As for feelings on Thistleclan overall, I think they believe their clan could... become more open to other views. They, themself, are quite the recluse now, and that can make them come off as rude to cats interacting with them because of how little they say. And due to how honestly they would then speak. But she does as she's told, doesn't talk back, and never has mean things to say about cats (unless it's the truth). She doesn't go out with a grumpy attitude like some of her other clanmates, and she doesn't have the harsh outlook that they have, both in life and in thoughts on the rogues. They might encourage more willing clanmates to consider ways to compromise with the rogues rather than eradicate them, and would do their best to use their place in the clan to encourage a more peaceful future with their current enemies.
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hailpaw, viperthroat, seraphine, and acorntail of redwoodclan lakefire and cherrybite of thistleclan crescentbloom and stoatstripe of lichenclan gale of the tribe & ospreyfur of unknown my tracker