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Post by ashstripe on Jul 1, 2011 1:38:10 GMT -5
It was safe to say that life had been hectic lately. Ashstripe felt like the world was spinning at a hundred miles per hour, and he felt like he couldn't keep up with everything that was going on. Just a few sunrises ago there had been a battle at the border RiverClan shared with WindClan and, not only that, but his leader - previous leader, to be more accurate - had lost the remainder of his lives. As a bonus, the previous deputy had stepped down from her rank. So where did all of that leave RiverClan? For starters, it left them with a new leader and a new deputy. Smokestar, formerly Smokeheart, and Feathertail. Ashstripe could honestly say that he was pleased that Smokeheart was selected to become their new leader - the two of them were only moons apart age-wise and Ashstripe had grown up with him. They had always been denmates, but now? Now that would be changing. It had been weird at first to suddenly address his friend as Smokestar but Ashstripe was sure that the gray tabby was suited for the position despite the lack of experience as deputy. Then again, it was also safe to say that his opinion was biased. He simply had nothing bad to say about his friend, his leader. Maybe another cat, even another one of his clanmates, would think differently about the situation based on their own opinion on Smokeh--star, but Ashstripe was simply not one of those cats. He trusted Smokestar, simple as that.
Ashstripe knew that this gathering would be trouble. He was sure that every cat in his Clan sensed the impending doom, more or less. There was no doubt in his mind that RiverClan was furious - hell, more than furious. They would be livid. Ashstripe had not been in the battle himself - he had been out hunting with a clanmate while it was taking place, but he had learned every detail when all was said and done with. And, although he wasn't too keen on battle without careful planning beforehand, he would have given anything to be there. But now it was too late, because RiverClan had lost one of its greatest leaders. If he had been there, then perhaps he could have saved several of his clanmates from inconvient battle wounds that they did not deserve. If only, if only.
RiverClan was the last clan to arrive. Ashstripe paused for a moment, blue orbs studying the clearing below thoughtfully. The other clans were mingling, though he could already sense the tension crackling in the air. It was thunder, and he feared when lightning would strike. Without further ado, the gray tabby strode after his Clanmates. He nodded curtly to a few other warriors from the other Clans and then sat down in a solitary patch of grass. Quite frankly, he didn't feel like mingling. Not tonight. His mind was jumbled with flitting thoughts that were impossible to remove. The previous events had left a huge impact on his brain. He couldn't get rid of the pestering thoughts that constantly centered around Swishstar's death, the battle, Silvercreek's decision and Smokestar's new role. It had all happened so quickly, in the blink of an eye. To be honest, he missed having nothing to think about. He would rather be bored and left with nothing to ponder about rather than this, this relentless badgering.
His blue orbs flicked to Hawkstar when the bengal began to speak. All of the cats in the hollow had quieted down the moment the ShadowClan leader rose his voice. Ashstripe sat up a bit straighter, tail curling around his paws and ears swiveling to the golden cat perched on the rock. He paid close attention to the tom's words, his eyes narrowing slightly when he concluded his report. Just as the golden cat sat down, Emberflare - the ThunderClan deputy - stepped up. What happened to Dawnstar? Despite the clan rivalries, Ashstripe sincerely hoped that the ThunderClan leader had not passed. The death of two leaders would be tragic. However, Emberflare soon cleared up any worrisome thoughts Ashstripe had been having. Well, that was a relief. The gray tabby glanced once at the tom Emberflare spoke of, able to see the ginger tom among the huddled cats. Wrenshadow, the new warrior, had his chest puffed out proudly and it brought back memories of when Ashstripe had been singled out like that at his first gathering as an official warrior of RiverClan. It had been a moment of glory, and even to this day he could remember it as if it had just happened yesterday. Ashstripe averted his gaze, settling it now on Stripestar who had invited RiverClan's speaker to report next. Ashstripe shifted uncomfortably and stifled the urge to lash his tail in annoyance.
The tension was growing by the minute. Ashstripe shifted his gaze to Smokestar, his leader, and sat back on his haunches. He paid close attention to the words that rolled from Smokestar's tongue, and wondered idly if Stripestar would be angered that he hadn't mentioned the fight. As soon as Smokestar finished his report and stepped back, Ashstripe immediately looked to Stripestar, his ears pricking. Now was time for the lightning.
Ashstripe inhaled quietly, and gritted his teeth when Stripestar began his pity report on the battle. The gray tabby sunk his claws unintentionally into the grass, and narrowed his eyes. The WindClan leader was sure not to leave out a single detail. If anything, Stripestar was a good story teller. Ashstripe could sense the tension becoming almost unbearable. It was heavy in the air. The fur along his spine and neck rose, and Ashstripe couldn't deny the fact that he wanted to lash out at Stripestar. But no - he couldn't. He wouldn't. Instead, he sunk his claws deeper into the soft ground and shoved his pent-up anger into the back of his mind. He wouldn't let this get to to him, no matter how hard it was. Deep down, he knew that this was only the beginning.
"speaking" ooc/ well then. i wasn't expecting it to be this long.
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Post by Hawkstar on Jul 1, 2011 12:00:05 GMT -5
Soon after ShadowClan’s leader sat, ThunderClan’s rose.
Emberflare turned his amber gaze towards the crowd, body poised and voice clear. “Due to unforeseen circumstances,” he began, his speech carrying easily around the hollow. “Dawnstar is unable to attend the Gathering tonight.” The bengal tom flicked his ears, knowing full well that the ginger and white tom would not delve into any detail, but the confirmation was more than enough. He briefly wondered if she was sick, or injured -- wondered just what these unforeseen circumstances were made of. The other tom then spoke of a new warrior, Wrenshadow, before moving on to reports of prey and then lastly addressing their borders. Secure. Well protected. Hawkstar acknowledged this with a flick of his tail. Emberflare then returned to his seated position, eyes wary. Hawkstar knew that he and the ThunderClan deputy were sharing the same thoughts. RiverClan and WindClan.
What happened?
For a little while longer, silence reigned, until at last Stripestar spoke from beside him, voice slow and terribly deliberate. “RiverClan can go,” he said simply, green eyes boring into Smokeheart. “Though they came last.” His tone was a low and private one, yet it dripped with thinly veiled mockery. Hawkstar glanced at the WindClan leader, somewhat surprised. What had happened to the cool, composed leader that he had encountered by pure chance at Fourtrees earlier in the season? The cat before him was calm, yes, but a cynical hatred burned behind those pale green eyes. Hawkstar felt his pelt prickle with a sudden wave of trepidation before he turned his own gaze towards Smokeheart. The gray tom was returning the WindClan leader’s stare as if nothing amiss had even occurred. “Fine,” he replied shortly, seemingly unperturbed the beige tom’s hostility.
Hawkstar watched the gray warrior step forward to the front of the GreatRock. “RiverClan has gone through change in these past few sunrises,” he announced. Swishstar has passed and is now among our ancestors.” The ShadowClan leader blinked, taken aback by the news. Swishstar? Dead? What about her deputy? “Silvercreek... stepped down from her position as deputy, and did not want to become leader.” Another surprise, though not as much of a shock as Swishstar’s death. Hawkstar continued to stare at the gray tom and felt a sharp pang of pity. He momentarily bowed his head, not wanting to interrupt, but wishing to convey his sympathies.
"Silvercreek entrusted me, Smokeheart to take her place as leader of RiverClan, knowing very well I had not been made deputy.” Hawkstar nodded, the gray tom’s presence upon the GreatRock finally explained. To be thrust so suddenly into leadership like this... He shook his head minutely. His own transition had been hard enough, but to practically go to your nest at night as a warrior and wake up as your Clan’s leader was an entirely different kind of shock. “With that said,” the RiverClan tom continued. “I have received my nine lives and now I'm RiverClan's new leader, Smokestar. And Feathertail is RiverClan's new deputy." Hawkstar nodded again, acknowledging the tom’s new position as well as the silver she-cat’s. Changes indeed...
Then, as if he had only been discussing the weather, Smokestar moved on to speak of a new warrior, Poisonfang, new apprentices, Cougarpaw and Spottedpaw, and lastly a medicine cat apprentice, Swamppaw. It was as if a new Clan had sprung up out of the ground overnight, moving in beside the river to take the place of a mere shadow that had been Swishstar’s reign. “RiverClan has nothing else to report,” he finished. As he turned, his gaze rested on WindClan’s leader. “Stripestar... Now it’s your turn to go last.” With Smokestar having said nothing of a brewing conflict between RiverClan and WindClan, the bengal tom knew that it now boiled down to the beige warrior to speak of whatever it was that had occurred.
And Stripestar didn’t waste a single breath; though the storm that Hawkstar had expected did not immediately break.
First he spoke of the usual Clan news: three new kits, the unfortunate passing of Daisyfield, fresh apprentices, Shypaw and Sorrelpaw, and yet another new medicine cat apprentice, Raggedpaw. Stripestar eyed a dark brown tom below for a brief moment before pausing. Hawkstar, along with the other leaders, waited in absolute silence, as did the crowd of gathered Clan cats below. One might have been able to hear a feather falling to the ground, brushing its way through the air to settle neatly onto the grass below. Then WindClan’s leader resumed... with a story.
Hawkstar listened intently, ears swiveled forward like satellite dishes and eyes staring unmoving at the beige tom’s face. A patrol, teaching an apprentice, ambushed near the gorge by a RiverClan patrol twice their size. Hawkstar did not look at Smokestar as the WindClan leader spoke, but the same, clipped question rang over and over in his mind. Why do that?
Two WindClan cats were killed in the ensuing fray: Greyfur, a senior warrior, and Greencloud, their deputy. Raggedpaw was severely wounded. Hawkstar could only blink, the same question pounding in his ears with a mixture of shock and a hint of grief. Both of the toms killed had been excellent and honorable warriors; but to be killed in a border dispute... Great StarClan.
“The new deputy of WindClan is Elmfrost,” Stripestar announced tightly, though his conviction was rock solid. ShadowClan’s leader scanned the crowd until he saw the familiar tom. A good choice, and a worthy successor of Greencloud. “Well, Smokestar,” WindClan’s leader continued, his voice as menacing as the mouth of an adder. “Congratulations, you now inherit Swishstar’s life-long campaign, and this rivalry has now been promoted. Your Clan takes the precious and acquitted lives of others, then hides like weaklings.” The lithe tom cringed mockingly. Hawkstar only watched, brain still swirling with the wave of new names, positions, and circumstances that assaulted his mind. “And if you don’t honor the code, you’re a rogue wearing mud, you’re a pretender.” His thin tail lashed behind him like a whip, all signs of aggression now out in the open for everyone to see. “Due to this, WindClan’s borders are checked frequently, and any cat who dares cross them will be attacked without question. WindClan has nothing else to report... Without further ado, this Gathering appears to be over.”
And that... was that.
Hawkstar glanced at Emberflare, and then Stripestar, who was currently staring at him with an almost expectant gaze. What do you want from me? he nearly asked, feeling his ears flick atop his head involuntarily; not out of nervousness, but out of sheer bewilderment. Once again silence returned to the GreatRock, but the hollow was now thrumming with voices. No doubt Stripestar’s story would cause discontent among their ranks, perhaps even rage. Most likely rage.
Hawkstar did not step forward, but he did stand, gaze flicking between Smokestar to Stripestar and back again. “Stripestar’s report is a serious one,” he mewed, voice quiet but audible to the cats below. He flicked his tail, eyeing the gray tom with a subdued gaze. “WindClan and RiverClan have not fought in many moons, especially battles that have resulted in death.” His eyes narrowed a fraction, questions clawing to the surface of his thoughts. “Hearing RiverClan’s side to this tale would be most... enlightening.”
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Post by fireblaze on Jul 1, 2011 16:29:17 GMT -5
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Fireblaze flicked his ears forward, his head tilting to the side as he listened to the leaders reports. Shrugging, he glanced over at WindClan and RiverClan wondering why they were so tense, barley listening at the time. Hearing the WindClan's leader report, he nodded agreeing with Hawkstar, for a change. "I would like to know RiverClan's side to," the orange ThuderClan tom meowed, glancing over to Smokestar.]Why does WindClan want to rush off anyway?" he wondered, speaking to himself mostly. Shrugging the orange tom watched silently, wondering if Smokestar would give his side to Stripestar's report, blinking his orange eyes quickly before returning his attention to the leaders.
text color to represent ashes"speech"
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Post by griffinkit on Jul 2, 2011 13:33:56 GMT -5
pepperpaw !! She barely registered everything that went on. Truthfully Pepperpaw's attention span was...elsewhere. Long boring speeches - for that's what she saw the Gathering and all the so important leaders - had a tendency to, well, bore her. She obviously didn't think the Gathering was going to be like this. Lots of cats were talking, and now when ThunderClan started to talk everybody went hush-hush. At first she stared around, waiting for the talking to assume. Then she dropped her head like a scolded kit, shooting glances at her fellow ShadowClan cats, especially Hawkstar and Nightfrost. So OK, she hadn't been briefed on how to behave. Maybe talking to "the enemy" wasn't socially acceptable. Pepperpaw barely registered Hawkstar mentioning the apprentices and other important things happening in her Clan; she was too busy fretting over the lack of noise. When Emberflare made his report for ThunderClan, this also went unnoticed. Only when Stripestar spoke did she look up; her amber eyes round, anxious. Something was wrong. WindClan's leader volunteered to go last? Normally this would make her all giddy with manners, thinking this cat was all noble and polite. But she didn't like the WindClan leader's tone. Not one bit. And the way he turned away. Definite tension. The RiverClan cat seemed not so nerved, speaking on behalf of his Clan. For once the ShadowClan apprentice listened. A leader died, a deputy stepped down and he was now leader? Wow, all that happened! Not to mention a new deputy. She registered these names, attempting to not forget them when she left. There was a ninety percent chance she would. Can't hurt for trying.
The more she listened the more she was happy she had decided to sit among ThunderClan cats. Pepperpaw shifted on the spot, eying the RiverClan cats with apprehension. "Your Clan takes the precious and acquitted lives of others, then hides like weaklings.” Stripestar had said. The little body shivered. Hawkstar made a request to know RiverClan's side of the report, but Pepperpaw couldn't understand that there was one. Outnumbering...killing... Over a border? The previous leader of RiverClan, maybe this Swishstar wouldn't have allowed it. "Why... Why would they do that?" she muttered to the ThunderClan cats. To nobody in particular. She wanted to get the disbelief out. A very rude awakening indeed.
* * * * * * * *
griffinflight !! "Why" Griffinflight's quiet mew was raised as he stepped forward, chin lifted to drink in all the leaders - and one deputy - as he addressed them. Namely Smokestar. His legs wobbled visibly. He surprised himself with a brief act of courage. But this... this was not right. "didn't RiverClan report that? Don't insult WindClan by saying, in front of StarClan, that it was insignificant! You brought a full patrol of warriors to attack! The least RiverClan could have done was admit it, sparing them some dignity. Now your Clan are going to be seen as cowards. Is that what you want at the start of your leadership, Smokestar?" He still couldn't believe it. Swishstar dead... The knowledge that his mother had been deputy, but stepped down from leadership. So, he thought bitterly, she had been around. She didn't want to see him. He forever remained a dirty little secret.
Scoffing, he didn't know if his outburst was aimed in defense of his Clan or anger at Silvercreek's. All he knew was two cats were dead, good decent warriors, over a stupid border fight. Hazel eyes turned away from the Great Rock, refusing to look at even Stripestar. Eventually he sat back down, curling a bushy tail over his paws and hunching over to make himself so insignificant nobody would think he just yelled at RiverClan's new leader.
[/size][/font][/justify] ___________________________________________ OOC: rare show of griffy-anger. jolly good! GRIFFY TAGGED: wtf land PEPPER TAGGED: what-the-heck-is-happening land MUSE: forced out. SETTING: fourtrees of course!
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Post by whitey on Jul 3, 2011 10:07:18 GMT -5
Whiteheart followed the tom curtly until they stopped next to a tom whom apparently was named Griffinflight. She nodded as he greeted her and mewled a friendly greeting,"Good evening, Griffinflight." The white she-cat's head turned when the news the gathering brought on was being annouced. Not much had happened in Thunderclan, though tension's with Shadowclan were thick and heavy, like an old woolen blanket. Each clan gave their annoucement and Whiteheart merely sat there, quiet, anxiety biting at her body. When she heard Windclan's statement over toward Riverclan her heart sped up.
She heard Griffinflight say something and she bit her lip. She had wanted to ask him whether he had known a she-cat name Redwing. Whiteheart bemused she would still be around warrior age, though a senior warrior in the clan, or possibly a young elder."Griffinflight, may I ask you something.." [/color] she mewled softly behind the tom. a7a092 is speaking[/size] [/justify][/div][/center]
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Post by coalfur on Jul 5, 2011 19:20:29 GMT -5
Listening to the Bengal leader orate ShadowClan’s state over the past moon was interesting; they had been blessed by new kits. That was always good, a fresh litter – if they lived through Leaf-bare, they could be the future generation, the potential of lively warriors. The senior she-cat found herself nodding with agreement, ThunderClan or not, innovative lives were sanctifying, considering their innocence in Clan ordeals. As for the warriors and apprentices… well, incorruptibility was unheard of, and despite tonight’s full moon, they were enemies forever more; she would meet them in battle… one day. Tail swaying, Coalfur wondered what the other Clans thought of Dawnstar’s absence, did they think of it as a weakness? Although her real curiosity was wondering what was going on with WindClan and RiverClan – StarClan knew the two Clans had been enemies for many seasons, but the present tension was matchless; her bright ocher gaze drifted over Smokeheart inquisitively, before it altered to the beige tabby who sat officiously in one place the entire time. Coalfur wasn’t accurately familiar with either of them – neither Clan’s business was appealing – but she was aware that Stripestar had been WindClan’s deputy for a few moons before Bluestar retired, and had been contemporary the last couple gatherings. Smokeheart on the other hand was an entirely different story.
RiverClan has gone through change in these past few sunrises. Swishstar has passed and is now among our ancestors. Silvercreek... stepped down from her position as deputy, and did not want to become leader. Silvercreek, entrusted me, Smokeheart to take her place as leader of RiverClan. Knowing very well I have not been made deputy. With that said, I have received my nine lives and now I'm RiverClan's new leader, Smokestar. And Feathertail is RiverClan's new deputy. With that, RiverClan has a new warrior among its ranks, Poisonfang has accomplished his training and it among RiverClan's finest. Also leading to that of Stormpelt taking an on apprentice and in her place tonight is Swamppaw. With Cougarpaw and Spottedpaw joining in with their apprenticeships. RiverClan has nothing else to report.
“That’s preposterous!” She hissed openly, “Did Silvercreek have bats in her brain? Choosing someone hardly even qualified!” Hearing that the deputy had resigned as soon as reign dawned upon her was cowardly and dishonorable; it almost had the dark she-cat in outrage, that a warrior lacking experience in most aspect, went straight to leader without having ever served under one to begin with! Where was his understanding, how would someone ignorant be able to lead a Clan? It wasn’t something you just had, you developed it from subjection. Not only that, the news of Swishstar’s passing was woeful – but what did any of this have to do with WindClan? Coalfur could find nothing that would have the moorland cats agitated… scanning the throng around her, she saw pride in the RiverClan cats, bewilderment in ThunderClan and ShadowClan; animosity leaking out of WindClan, as well. This was equally interesting and perplexing all at the same time… their only hope of an explanation, she figured, would be Stripestar’s report.
In this time of year, the moorland runs ample with rabbits, enough to fill the bellies of every cat in WindClan, Daisyfield, one of our senior queens, died giving birth to three healthy kits – while that is joyous and sad news at the same time, we also welcome two new apprentices, Shypaw and Sorrelpaw, both of which are present. Furthermore, WindClan’s Medicine cat Cinderdust has decided to take on an apprentice, hello Raggedpaw, he started, and Coalfur noted more kits; but when the tabby leader’s voice had hushed, the ThunderClan warrior noted something glimmer in his gaze – it was hard to see from her position, but she didn’t miss the look he flashed Smokestar, fiery glint included. The clearing was still.
Several sunrises ago, a WindClan patrol woke up at dawn, ate, and left to check our borders, They slipped over the hillside, showing a new apprentice where to mark, and how to mark – similarly chattering like Clanmates do; it was when they came to the border with RiverClan, that they were ambushed unexpectedly by an enemy patrol twice their size. Grayfur an old well-known warrior, was among our patrol and he was killed. The new apprentice, barely made it back to camp alive.
She felt a menacing force pass over her, and she tensed under the watchful eyes of Stripestar, but realized soon enough he wasn’t looking at her at all, he was looking around her, at the RiverClan cats… was he judging them? Or was he looking for the attackers? Poor Grayfur, she concluded, she had known him, they had both become Warriors around the same moon, announced at the same Gathering; would she end up like him one day? Murdered by the enemy, who waited in the darkness? An unsuspecting victim.
After backup had arrived, WindClan made sure that we delivered tenfold, quite literally, he spat out each word raw, and in the fray, Greencloud was murdered. The new deputy of WindClan is Elmfrost. Well Smokestar, he started again after a pause, congratulations, you now inherit Swishstars life-long campaign, and this rivalry has now been promoted. Your Clan takes the precious, and acquitted lives of others, then hides like weaklings.
She was shocked to see him actually mocking the gray tom, slinking low in his station as if he were creeping, shrouding himself from justice… her ears flattened to her skull, she was offended by all of this. RiverClan would attack an innocent patrol, and aim to kill? What was wrong with them? In her heart, she felt for Stripestar, not because she particularly liked WindClan, or any Clan but her own… but because she understood how he felt. Good for him for giving back more bite than bark, she thought silently, her rays intense now.
and if you don’t honor the code, you’re a rogue wearing mud, you’re a pretender. Due to this, WindClan’s borders are checked frequently, and any cat that dares cross them, will be attacked without question. WindClan has nothing else to report. Without further ado, this Gathering appears to be over.
“Mousedung!” She protested, rising from her seated posture, “The Warrior code states one does not need to kill to win their battles; aren’t you aware of this, Smokestar? Are you going to do nothing about it? You’d think Silvercreek might have chosen someone more adept in the ways of honor and rightness, or I have been wrong about RiverClans integrity my whole life…” She growled, glaring at those around her; she was not afraid to challenge a leader, especially one she felt had done wrong. She demanded, like Hawkstar, his side of the story, some form of an explanation. Surely, RiverClan could not be the only one to blame? Coalfur found it hard to imagine WindClan completely blameless for this incident, she had known them to be daring, but not innocuous.
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Post by ! R E E D F i S H E R on Jul 5, 2011 22:29:07 GMT -5
Reedfisher's pelt prickled as the tension in the clearing rose at the news of Swishstar's passing. His brilliant eyes fell to his paws momentarily, in sympathy for the leader and for the Clan, but as Smokeheart spoke again, this time of Silvercreek, who had apparently chosen to step down from her position as deputy, a ripple of confusion echoed among the assembled cats. Reedfisher glanced at Hawkstar and Stripestar - their gazes were just as guarded and curious as his own. Smokeheart was the new leader of RiverClan? Smokestar? And Feathertail had been appointed as deputy. Reedfisher regarded the two cats with careful interest, sizing them up. It would be interesting to see how RiverClan would be handled under this new, inexperienced leadership.
And then WindClan's leader, Stripestar, was speaking, proudly announcing the new apprentices and the new kits. But after a few heartbeats of casual, almost innocent sharing of news, Stripestar got down to the point. The information made the Clan cats startle - their eyes immediately widened, their tails tucked tighter around their paws, some flicked angrily, while others shied away from their neighbors, suddenly suspicious. Reedfisher's own heart thumped loudly in his broad chest, but he kept his cool, choosing to examine the reactions of those around him rather than expose his own. In moments like those, when conflict came close to ripping the Clans apart, Reedfisher was quite calm indeed. It made him a valuable warrior, and a formidable foe. Danger did not frighten him, nor did he shy away from confrontation. Which was exactly what was flashing in Stripestar's eyes as he turned on Smokestar,
For a moment, the leaders exchanged sharp words, as their Clanmates shifted uncomfortably beneath them. And then Hawkstar injected a question directed towards RiverClan, a question that every cat wanted to know the answer to. A WindClan warrior stepped forward, his voice trembling with fright and passion. "Why didn't RiverClan report that? Don't insult WindClan by saying, in front of StarClan, that it was insignificant! You brought a full patrol of warriors to attack! The least RiverClan could have done was admit it, sparing them some dignity. Now your Clan are going to be seen as cowards. Is that what you want at the start of your leadership, Smokestar?" Reedfisher admired the tom's bravery at addressing a leader, nevertheless an inexperienced one.
Another experienced warrior, Coalfur of ThunderClan, leaped to her paws as Stripestar attempted to call the Gathering to a close. “Mousedung! The Warrior code states one does not need to kill to win their battles; aren’t you aware of this, Smokestar? Are you going to do nothing about it? You’d think Silvercreek might have chosen someone more adept in the ways of honor and rightness, or I have been wrong about RiverClans integrity my whole life…”
Reedfisher straightened visibly, his chest stretching as he uncurled from his position in the shadows. Tabby pelt, flecked with moonlight, shimmered as the numerous heads swiveled to face him. "Let us not forget, Coalfur, that the leader of the Clan is not the only judge of a cat's honor. Smokestar was granted nine lives by StarClan. Are you questioning their decision to make Smokestar the new leader of RiverClan?"
[/color] His cobalt gaze was merely curious, not threatening, not aggressive. He did not fear confrontation. That didn't mean he liked it. "The actions of each individual cat cannot be controlled by any leader or deputy. Perhaps we should wait to hear RiverClan's side of the story before forming accusations based on a one-sided account."[/color] The handsome tom settled his lanky frame, not devoid of muscles, and glanced towards his leader for a heartbeat before fixing his piercing gaze on Smokestar, waiting for an explanation. [/div][/center]
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Post by coalfur on Jul 5, 2011 23:51:15 GMT -5
Before Smokestar could respond, a deep brown tabby tom twisted to face her, Let us not forget, Coalfur, that the leader of the Clan is not the only judge of a cat's honor. Smokestar was granted nine lives by StarClan. Are you questioning their decision to make Smokestar the new leader of RiverClan? Damn right I am, she hissed silently, for one, this cat was a ShadowClanner, two, he was merely a kit to her - his confrontation meant very little, and earned him nothing except a good tongue lashing.
The actions of each individual cat cannot be controlled by any leader or deputy. Perhaps we should wait to hear RiverClan's side of the story before forming accusations based on a one-sided account.
"I am questioning their decision, because StarClan do not know everything, nor can they control everything," she growled, her nicked ears flattening to her skull; if he hadn't intended to anger her, he'd failed miserably; good for him though that she honored the truce and Clan traditions far more than the youth of present day, she wasn't going to spend the rest of the Gathering squabbling with an ignorant tomcat. "I'll wait, but I don't take orders from ShadowClan, nor do I take them from the adolescent, that was your mistake, tom and I will question whatever contradicts my individual views, you have no place to challenge my outlook." she hissed, her ocher gaze glaring at him steadily, firey before she coiled away from Reedfisher completely.
"And don't ever forget it."
RiverClan had better have a good explanation. There had to be four Clans iin the forest.
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Post by smokey on Jul 6, 2011 0:05:23 GMT -5
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Smokestar of RiverClan
As young as he was for being the leader of RiverClan and not having the chance to follow in the leader's footsteps as deputy, Smokestar had much to learn. There were some things that he wished he knew more about and less about. He knew more about how to act innocent putting a face on that no one would read through the lines of his dirty deeds. His killing of Greencloud. Even though he was a casualty during this accidentally border fight, the blue-gray tom stood as all of the others, but he didn't stand proud and righteous. He stood as if he was stock to hear the news as if it was the first time. His scar was proof the border fight even existed, Stripestar could have made up the entire thing and killed Greyfur and Greencloud in the middle of the night and blame it on RiverClan for just being an enemy to them, but no. He chose to make it more personal for all to hear. To hear that RiverClan were not innocent. To hear that they have done wrong. To hear that WindClan is basically out for revenge for the two deaths. Were they actually going to take two lives from RiverClan to make it even? Or was it already fair enough to lose Swishstar to StarClan and to lose Silvercreek as being the new leader of RiverClan instead of the inexperienced blue-gray tom who stood there on the Great Rock with the rest of the leaders representing their Clans? Smokestar knew that Stripestar would take the revenge on him. His Clan. And the murderer who killed his beloved friend, Greencloud. But the thing is, who actually killed Greencloud? Was Stripestar actually going to take a guess at that and kill all of RiverClan to prove a point to the other Clans including StarClan, that he would bring war if one of his closest comrades were to be murdered during a fight?
The young leader watched as Stripestar jumped off the Great Rock leaving Hawkstar, Emberflare, and him on there. He knew very well that something would be brewing soon, but how soon would it before it blew over? His green eyes watched as the WindClan patrol walked away from Fourtrees, before hearing Hawkstar. "Stripestar's report is a serious one." Smokestar knew Hawkstar was right, but what was he to do about it? Those who fought in the attack were injured but not nearly as bad as he was, his shoulder was still aching and his scar above his eyes was still in it's healing process. "Yes, it was a serious one."mumbling. "WindClan and RiverClan have not fought in many moons, especially battles that have resulted in death," pausing for a brief second, "Hearing RiverClan's side to this take would be most...enlightening." He pondered the thought of telling the story of how Rainleaf had started this entire thing with the rest of the patrol including Smokestar himself went off RiverClan territory to attack the small WindClan patrol. But before he could speak he stared down at the ThunderClan warrior, who Smokestar believed had no say in what was to be said as the gathering was over, and Smokestar wasn't quite sure if he should say anything at all, and let the other two clans figure out the mystery themselves. "I would like to know RiverClan's side too. Why does WindClan want to rush off anyway?" In reality that last bit of what the ThunderClan warrior said, made Smokestar think more. Why did WindClan really want to rush off so quickly without Smokestar explaining his side. Smokestar couldn't answer the question of why they wanted to leave so quickly, but he could say this. "WindClan may do what they please. They are afraid how I may put a different story and wish to not hear." he paused trying really hard to feel comfortable about how to say this, but in reality he was more nervous for his first impression, even though it already failed Stripestar bashed him and RiverClan in front of everyone in the forest.
"The RiverClan patrol that attack consisted of three warriors and two apprentices. Patrolling our side of the border. I did not believe this attack would happen as we patrolled the border, but the head of patrol risked it and charged ahead attacking the small patrol." "Why..." Smokestar heard as he started to tell his side. He pinpointed it to Griffinflight, a WindClan warrior, that Smokestar had believed that all WindClan cats had left with their leader. "...Didn't RiverClan report that? Don't insult WindClan by saying, in front of StarClan, that it was insignificant. You brought a full patrol of warriors to attack! The least RiverClan could have done was admit it, sparing them some dignity. Now your Clan are going to be seen as cowards. Is that you want at the start of your leadership, Smokestar?" And this was the exact reason why the blue-gray had not wanted to go to the gathering tonight. To be put on the spot of what one warrior had to done to that patrol. Smokestar wanted to attack the WindClan warrior with all of his might, but something inside of him forced him to stay in his location on the Great Rock. Something held onto his soul making it stay in place, saying that it wasn't right to go and show them what he could have done. Smokestar was not afraid to kill a cat, it was a trait that was passed down by his father, Rockjaw. His brother, Stormcloud has the same trait, but their sister, Pebblestorm did not. Smokestar pushed himself to believe he didn't receive that trait from his father, but during the border attack he was proved wrong, all effort to keep that trait away from him failed. He felt no remorse, felt no pity for doing the dirty deed. He didn't feel happy or sad or even mad. He felt nothing all. He changed himself into the son that his father always wanted besides that of Stormcloud. "Mousedung! The Warrior Code states one does not need to kill to win their battles; aren't you aware of this, Smokestar? Are you going to do nothing about it? You'd think Silvercreek might have chosen someone more adept in the way of honor and rightness, or I have been wrong about RiverClan's integrity my whole life..." Smokestar turned to the ThunderClan she-cat, Coalfur. He knew she was one of the most senior warriors of ThunderClan, but that was all he knew of her.
Smokestar felt as he was being judged that was not during his reign as leader of RiverClan but only days before. What was he to do of this? Show weakness of what he already knew. "I'm aware of this, but this all happened before my reign! No one said that RiverClan won!" Smokestar growled for all to hear. He was showing his true colors that he was born with. He wasn't this nice pretty face cat anymore. He could feel the heat of hatred through his veins as his heart bumped the blood throughout his body. Another voice was heard among the crowd of cats, Reedfisher was the owner of that voice. "Let us not forget, Coalfur, that the leader of the Clan is not the only judge of a cat's honor. Smokestar was granted nine lives by StarClan. Are you questioning their decision to make Smokestar the new leader of RiverClan? The actions of each individual cat cannot be controlled by any leader or deputy. Perhaps we should wait to hear RiverClan's side of the story before forming accusations based on a one-sided account." Even though he did not know this tom, in all honesty he was right. One should tell their side, but as of now, Smokestar was ready to leave and no one was going to keep him waiting. "Well, now, I've told you all I wish to share of my side, but that was only the beginning." Smokestar stated. Standing up and gaining his balance after sitting for some time Smokestar walked over toward Hawkstar and hissed, "Though I do wish for the best of the coming months, I hope to not see you in battle, as I know you could not fight to protect your old friend and leader, Icestar. I just hope you aren't like Stripestar wanting revenge for the death of a close friend, as I have no fear killing a cat." Smokestar felt that was right, but in all due respect, he knew deep down that he could ultimately have no fear left with in him. He wasn't afraid to die, it was natural to do so, but if he was to, he would fight to the death and kill his attack before they do it him. "I just hope that if we meet in battle, you have the guts to fight and protect the ones you love before they leave you behind. Just a thought I might add in there, as I would have done anything to protect her." Smokestar whispered to Hawkstar for to only hear his harsh words.
The blue-gray leader jumped down from the Great Rock and headed for RiverClan's territory, he hoped he put some words of consideration into Hawkstar on how to protect those that one loves and cares for even if they are very close friends. "RiverClan we are leaving now!" he shouted before giving Hawkstar one last goodbye nod from him before walking through the entrance that lead to RiverClan's camp.
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Post by stripebird on Jul 6, 2011 1:30:37 GMT -5
Stripestar’s report is a serious one, Hawkstar said suddenly, his gaze passing between the two toms, WindClan and RiverClan have not fought in many moons, especially battles that have resulted in death. Hearing RiverClan’s side to this tale would be most... enlightening. Stripestar took a step back, resuming his position upon the Great Rock – he wanted to hear what Smokestar would say in RiverClans defense, considering they didn’t actually have one. Regardless of the questions and the doubts from the throng of cats below, everything Stripestar said had been true. That was how it happened, he didn’t add in anything false, he didn’t embellish anything; it was the only legitimate thing he even knew anymore. Yes, it was a serious one. The RiverClan leader mumbled, WindClan may do what they please. They are afraid how I may put a different story and wish to not hear. Immediately incensed further, the beige tabby scoffed, interrupting Smokestar; “I like how your Clan was the one that retreated,” he growled, “too cowardly to finish what they started, hm? Now say again that we are afraid-” tail tip pointing to the gray toms forehead, Stripestar snickered, and it was a dark sound that emitted from his throat, “Not nearly as afraid as you were when I blinded you with your own blood.” His spring green gaze was boiling, but he forced himself to composure and tore his attention away, if only to scan again the gathered crowd.
The RiverClan patrol that attack consisted of three warriors and two apprentices. Patrolling our side of the border. I did not believe this attack would happen as we patrolled the border, but the head of patrol risked it and charged ahead attacking the small patrol. And the rest of the patrol just followed suit? Now it seemed as though RiverClan were not only murders, and fiends to the warrior code, but they were also puppets, and did as they were told, and never questioned the injustice – because the head of the patrol said so, that made it certain? And that was why two cats were now dead, because the head of RiverClans border patrol… had said so? That made perfect sense, in fact, it made so much that Stripestar was livid, and he wanted to leave the Gathering for the reason he wasn’t so sure he would be able to contain all of his wrath. Putting the pieces together, he had spent sunrises mourning the murder of his best friend and loyal deputy, beside himself with guilt and woe, but all for something so inconsequential as an impulsive decision made by just one cat? Who should he blame then, this warrior or the true assassin to Greencloud? He glared into the bark of a tree, calming himself, creating a distraction, although from a distance, he examined it’s texture and color, picking apart the shades and deciding what was real and what was moonglow; subconsciously aware of Smokestar talking, his jowls puckered indecisively, asking himself a critical question… what do I want to do about it now?
Well, now, I've told you all I wish to share of my side, but that was only the beginning. Though I do wish for the best of the coming months, I hope to not see you in battle, as I know you could not fight to protect your old friend and leader, Icestar. I just hope you aren't like Stripestar wanting revenge for the death of a close friend, as I have no fear killing a cat.
He had no fear killing a cat – and claiming Stripestar himself wanted revenge? Comme ci comme ca, he wanted justice, and he was still trying to figure out what it was – some equal exchange, but how could he do that when the only thing of equivalent value was to take the life of the one who took Greencloud’s? It was revenge, but it wasn’t merciless and it wasn’t aimless; he knew his boundaries, StarClan forbid, he knew… lest blood would have already been shed across Fourtrees. Flashing Hawkstar a peek, he was eager to know the Bengals reaction to the indirect insult regarding Icestar… “And I have no fear inflicting alike on murderers,” he threatened; if Smokestar was implying he would take the lives of anyone who challenged validity, he was a hypocrite. “So maybe you should shut your trap, before I start making allegations.” He hissed ominously, his lips curling.
RiverClan we are leaving now!
Good riddance.
So what do I do? He had to assess the facts, Greencloud had been dead before RiverClan backup appeared. That narrowed down the options. The fur wedged between his claws had been shades of gray, this confined the selections further. He found himself watching RiverClan exit.
“Hawkstar,” he meowed coolly to the ShadowClan leader, but was at a loss for words, he only sighed and shook his head, his jade orbs drifting slowly to meet the icy blue. What did Emberflare think of this? The ThunderClan deputy had been near silent the entire reports… “WindClan, we’re leaving!” He yowled, dipping his head to the other two toms before leaping down; his patrol and himself departing. He decided, first, he would pay ShadowClan a visit very soon.
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Post by pepperpaw on Jul 11, 2011 10:45:42 GMT -5
griffinflight !! That doesn't justify anything! The WindClan warrior stared open mouthed as Smokestar continued to speak. Just because it happened before his 'reign' - and what leader called leading his or her Clan a 'reign' anyway? - didn't mean he couldn't justify it by public apology. Smokestar could have apologized for RiverClan's previous ruling. It had been barbaric and it didn't seem like any of RiverClan's warriors had been punished for taking lives over a border fight. Of course Griffinflight didn't know that, it seemed like Smokestar wasn't revealing anything to accuse his own Clan. If he had, the Gathering would have gone much more smoother. RiverClan would have been humble... Now it was all a huge mistake to even come. Smokestar and the rest of RiverClan left. He felt torn. Watching them leave, he was reminded he was half-RiverClan. How did it go so wrong? The peace between them broke into tension that erupted to hatred. He was vaguely aware of Whiteheart muttering something to him. Asking him about something... No! Asking him if she could ask him something. But at that same moment Stripestar announced he was leaving. He turned to look the white she-cat in the eyes as he got up to move away. "I...I'm so sorry. Sorry! I can't" he stuttered "goodbye, Whiteheart." he added, wishing to add nice meeting you at the end. Though the night was far from being nice. Instead he gave the she-cat one last despairing look before turning away to join Stripestar's departing patrol.
TO: WINDCLAN
[/size][/font][/justify] ___________________________________________ OOC: boom goes the dynamite! ...couldn't resist. GRIFFY TAGGED: leaving with Stripestar PEPPER TAGGED: -waiting for Hawkstar to leave officially before posting- MUSE: forced out. SETTING: fourtrees of course!
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