Private Camp all of the stars have a reason to shine ──☆ gingerflame

[brindlefeather's icon brindlefeather brindlefeather]

BRINDLEFEATHER ──

thunderclan | forager​

Eveningtime has the ThunderClan camp as busy as ever, cats walking to and fro as they either leave for or come back from patrols. Mentors speak with their apprentices or practice what they've learned, and warriors share tongues and eat fresh-kill together while the kits play noisily outside the nursery, the queens watching closely so they wouldn't get into trouble. Brindlefeather purrs loudly as the breeze ruffles his fur, some fiery-colored leaves skipping along the clearing at the wind's beck and call. Leaf-fall is so beautiful, he thinks to himself. It's a shame that such beauty is a sign of Leaf-bare approaching...

Rising to his paws before the sunlight can lull him to sleep, Brindlefeather stretches and decides to pad across the clearing, flicking his tail in friendly greeting to the warriors he passes by. He's been watching one of his Clanmates from across the camp for a while now - another one of the foragers, who seems to be struggling to make the bedding for a nest he's crafting. Gingerflame is his name - he and Brindlefeather had interacted in the past, of course, though it had mostly been niceties and casual conversation. Of course, Brindlefeather will take any opportunity to get closer with his Clanmates, and the red-eyed tom he approaches now is no exception. Smiling as vibrantly as ever, he sits next to Gingerflame, wrapping his tail over his paws delicately.

"Hi, Gingerflame!" he greets him, observing his in-progress moss bed curiously. "Do you want some help? I saw you from across the camp, you seem a bit stuck."

maybe we'll turn it all around 'cuz it's not too late

it's never too late

• ooc: >:3
  @GINGERFLAME
• "speaking" | thinking | action

 

[GINGERFLAME]

Leaf-fall while beautiful only spurred the cream tabby to work harder. Resources were only going to get difficult to come by, so he needed to improve his nest making skills. Despite being a forager, he still felt behind in comparison to the other foragers. They'd reassure him that his nests were fine enough, or that his skill in altering scents was unparalleled. Unfortunately, their words only worsened his mood. He would not show it to them though. No, he would bite his tongue and smile as if their comfort actually meant something. Thank them for their kind words and in some cases reciprocated an embrace. If he promptly bathed himself to get rid of their scent, then it was his own little secret.

Today, like clockwork he diligently works on a nest. No one at this point in time required a new nest, but he could always use it to expand an already pre-existing nest. The elders and caretakers frequently requested a nest expansion, so it wouldn't be too difficult to find somewhere his nest would be useful. However, Gingerflame is beginning to despise this nest. The twigs serving as the base aren't jutting out at weird angles, so by all accounts his nest was soundly made. The problem? It wasn't as soft as he liked. He understood that it was because he used only dried leaves and moss, but he wanted to prepare for when Leaf-bare struck. When there was a lack of feathers and wool to create the comfiest bed one could fathom. A foragers job was to be resourceful after all.

An ear flicks in the direction of his name being called. He didn't have to look to know who it was. "Hey Brindlefeather." The pair aren't super close, but Gingerflame wouldn't dare say they're just acquaintances either. After all, Brindlefeather is his nest test taker. If the older forager wasn't pleased, then Gingerflame would alter it until he got approval for the nest to be released to the public. Frustration boils in his gut when Brindlefeather offers his help. The urge to hiss at the other forager is strong, but Gingerflame knows this. If I do that he'll just run away from me. That's no way to make friends.

Even as the flame of frustration roar in his gut, he turns to the other forager and smiles. "If you have the time to spare, your help would be lovely." Not wanting to make a horrible decision, he turns his attention to his nest. "I'm struggling to make a very comfortable bed with limited materials. With leaf-bare coming soon, I just wanted to hone my skills." A cream paw presses down his moss bed. Not soft enough. Is there really nothing else I can do? Adding more twigs would make it more uncomfortable, but if I took out some... It wouldn't be as solid. "Here, you can lay in it. Maybe you could figure out what it's missing once you get settled into it?"

COAL TO DIAMOND ✩₊˚.⋆☾ 𓃦 ☽⋆⁺₊✧ SOLD TO FOOLS

• GINGERFLAME

  — forager of thunderclan
  🗡 21 moons — he/him — ages realistically on the 14th — mentoring cardinalpaw
  🗡 speech is "#F2935C" — thoughts are italics — attacks are underlined
  🗡 short haired cream tabby with vibrant red eyes
  🗡 peaceful & healing powerplay permitted — underline & tag when attacking
  🗡 penned by velou — kasaven on discord — open to plots & dms

 

[brindlefeather's icon brindlefeather brindlefeather]

BRINDLEFEATHER ──

thunderclan | forager​

"Sure thing!" Brindlefeather chirps before stepping carefully into the bed that Gingerflame has so frustratingly crafted. He does a small spin, deciding how he wants to lay in it, before settling into a comfortable loaf.
"Hmm. For limited materials, this is honestly quite nice. Your attention to detail and conviction to improve are remarkable," he compliments with a purr. "I think the main thing I would change here is to add a bit more padding toward the edges. A little extra moss can go a long way when there's no other material to spare," he explains, sitting back up and taking some moss from some of the extra material strewn nearby. In demonstration, he places it neatly along the outer rim of the bed, making sure to position himself so Gingerflame can see clearly how he's doing it. "If you knead it very carefully, like this, then you can get a slight bit more padding out of a smaller amount of moss. It's a great trick that not only improves its softness, but can also provide extra insulation from the harsh cold of leaf-bare." Stepping back out after applying the moss, he dips his head in invitation. "Here, feel the difference. It's not much, but a small change like this can mean the world when it comes to getting a proper rest. When you're ready, you can try applying some to the rest of the outer edges."

maybe we'll turn it all around 'cuz it's not too late

it's never too late

• ooc:
• "speaking" | thinking | action

 

[GINGERFLAME]

It's the lack of hesitance from Brindlefeather that Gingerflame can be at ease for a moment. He doesn't have to work hard, doesn't have to preform. He can just be, and Brindlefeather will look at him. Why? He doesn't know and he doesn't care. The only thing that matters is that Brindlefeather will seek him out. Always ready to give him attention. Those chestnut colored eyes will peer into red without fear. It's because he doesn't know any better. He doesn't know what you really are. If he knew, would he be here with you? A scowl forms. Thankfully Brindlefeather is too busy to notice. In the meantime, Gingerflame's scowl morphs into a genuine smile. How the other forager loafs into his nest is endearing.

Compliments aren't something Gingerflame is accustomed to. Especially from anyone other than his mother. It's... Peculiar. He is not enraged. If the same words left the maw of his younger brother, then it would quickly devolve into a fight between the pair. If these words left the maw of Owlbark? Without question he'd think the deputy was being condescending. However, this strange feeling in his gut wasn't bad. Was this happiness? There isn't much time to think about it. At the sound of Brindlefeather's purr, his red eyes avert from the mottled warrior. "Well, a forager's got to know how to make a good nest." Brindlefeather would know exactly what he was refering to. It wasn't too long ago that Gingerflame's nests left much to be desired.

In any case, the cream tabby remains quiet as he is given suggestions. Focusing on every movement Brindlefeather makes. Ears flicking the only telltale sign that Gingerflame is in fact listening. I did ignore the edges... But there was so little moss to spare. How did he make it look like it wasn't a bare nest while using some of the moss around the edges? Brindlefeather is in an entirely different league. This nest alone is proof of it. Even without laying in it, Gingerflame can tell its going to feel wonderful. However, with expectant chestnut eyes looking at him... He's settled in the nest before he knows it.

And oh, it feels like a cloud. Even better when he laid on it before Brindlefeather's touch graced it. All he wants to do is sink his weary bones and spirit into the nest, and that's exactly what he does. Loud purrs surround them as Gingerflame buries himself in Brindlefeather's nest. A tail curls around his frame. Hackles relax. Eyes slip close for a few moments. "What do you mean not much? This feels like sleeping on a cloud already." Slowly, the cream forager lifts his head to Brindlefeather who decided to draw closer for some reason. Red eyes stare into chestnut. He graces the other tom with a gentle smile. "I'm surprised you haven't found a mate yet. With the nests you make, I would've thought you'd settle down quickly. Unless, you've been waiting for someone?" It doesn't make any sense otherwise. I'm pretty sure there's been someone before, or someone whose interested now. You've got plenty of things other cats would like.

COAL TO DIAMOND ✩₊˚.⋆☾ 𓃦 ☽⋆⁺₊✧ SOLD TO FOOLS

• GINGERFLAME

  — forager of thunderclan
  🗡 21 moons — he/him — ages realistically on the 14th — mentoring cardinalpaw
  🗡 speech is "#F2935C" — thoughts are italics — attacks are underlined
  🗡 short haired cream tabby with vibrant red eyes
  🗡 peaceful & healing powerplay permitted — underline & tag when attacking
  🗡 penned by velou — kasaven on discord — open to plots & dms

 

[brindlefeather's icon brindlefeather brindlefeather]

BRINDLEFEATHER ──

thunderclan | forager​

This feels like sleeping on a cloud already. Brindlefeather can tell that Gingerflame means what he says as the younger cat settles into the modified bed, his smile morphing into a grin at the sight of his frame sinking into it comfortably, even closing his eyes as contentment washes over him. Brindlefeather's ear flicks with satisfaction, and he glances away for a moment. "Ohh, you flatter me." Their eyes meet then, and Brindlefeather can almost see the silhouette of his own reflection, tinted a ruby red. Unconciously, he leans a little closer, as if trying to memorize each intricate detail of Gingerflame's face, but he's caught off-guard by the other forager suddenly bringing up the topic of mates.

"A mate?" The question escapes him as more of a surprised squeak than a simple statement. The tips of his ears burn at the thought - despite wanting a mate, he hasn't exactly been in a rush to find one; still, as he looks at the cream-colored tabby speak of the idea of it, curled up in a nest that he'd just complimented Brindlefeather's work on...
"Well, not exactly waiting, but - I suppose there is a cat I could see myself with..." What in StarClan's name am I saying? It'd just slipped out, but somehow it'd felt so natural to say. Sure, he got along with Gingerflame well, but would the other cat even be interested in pursuing something like that? He hadn't asked if he'd want to be mates with him, specifically... he tears his gaze away as an image enters his mind of the two of them sharing a nest after a long day of building it together, sharing tongues as they drift slowly to sleep. "I guess I'm just a bit nervous when it comes to initiating things like that." There's truth to what he says, but in the back of his mind he can already tell something has shifted, and he knows before long he'll be coming up with some excuse to talk to the other forager more... his sister had better not find out about this - she'll tease him to no end.

maybe we'll turn it all around 'cuz it's not too late

it's never too late

• ooc:
• "speaking" | thinking | action

 

[GINGERFLAME]

"It's not flattery if its true." Huh? Why was that real? For so long he's pretended. Held his tongue. There were times when he was alone with Brindlefeather that he told nothing but lies. Smiled even though he wanted nothing more than to scowl. How he couldn't see the same beauty the other forager did when it came to their home. The only beauty that he can admit the pair had seen was when it came to finding berries. Gingerflame excelled in altering scents. It was something he prided himself in. Altering scents made him feel most at ease. It was like he could hide away without a trace. Finally having a moment of peace from the numerous lies he carried with him. The weight was crushing at times, but it was more agonizing to be alone again.

A brow raises when Brindlefeather squeaks. The sound is lovely, not that he would ever say. However, he is pleased at watching the other forager become so flustered. The topic of mates and love wasn't rare by any means. Plenty of warriors liked to talk about it and what they wished for. Some who were already in relationships would either give advice or share their own love stories. Once Brindlefeather mentions that he does indeed have someone in mind, something ugly coils in his gut. He's not jealous that his clanmate has someone in mind already. What he is jealous of is the fact that Brindlefeather can have someone. Gingerflame can't have anyone. While he longed for a mate and a family of his own... He knew he'd be faced with rejection. There was no one he could confess to at the moment. Either they would reject him or think it was some prank.

"I guess I'm just a bit nervous when it comes to initiating things like that."

He can't help but chuff. "You? Nervous?" It's hard to imagine frankly. Brindlefeather has always been so approachable and so often he's seen the other forager in a conversation with another. Unlike Gingerflame who had to put on a mask for anyone to draw near... Brindleface never needed to wear one. He was friendly. Everyone liked him. Maybe there were those who found Brindlefeather annoying, but they couldn't deny that he was a good tom. As for Gingerflame? Those who drew near never stood long. It was as if they could tell that there was something ugly within him. No matter how spectacular the mask was, eventually they would leave him. The only cat in the entire forest who cared for him and who saw his ugliness and accepted it was gone. No one else has ever come close since then.

To be close meant to be vulnerable. Are we close? He tilts his head. They are close in proximity that much is true, but of their hearts? No. They weren't. Even if they were laughing now and talking about the future, it meant nothing. "I guess love is something to be nervous about." For me, most of all. Love... He always wanted it. Did everything in his power to have it in his grasp. Whether it was romantic or platonic, he chased it. Even if it meant the gaping hole within him could only be filled for a few short moments, he would take it. Yes. This was what this was. The peculiar feeling before was of his heart being fulfilled. An idea comes to mind.

He rises to his paws, not minding in the slightest how close they are. "Who is it? I'm sure whoever it is would be happy to have such a kind mate." Oh, If only had known. Known that his goal was only a mere step away. That he could have had it all if he confessed something. However, life was not that simple. "I can help y'know? Maybe get you two alone on a patrol. Maybe prepare some freshkill for you two. Bring a nest you made, or I can make an amazing one just for you. Take it to a certain spot where you'd like to woo them." If he were to help Brindlefeather win the heart of his love they would be friends, right? Brindlefeather wouldn't abandon him. Sure he would have a nice mate and some kits here and there, but it would be Gingerflame be the true winner. Yes, he would finally have a friend. The love he had sought for so long would be given to him, and he wouldn't have to be vulnerable. He could keep Brindlefeather at a distance and still receive a glance full of warmth.

COAL TO DIAMOND ✩₊˚.⋆☾ 𓃦 ☽⋆⁺₊✧ SOLD TO FOOLS

• GINGERFLAME

  — forager of thunderclan
  🗡 21 moons — he/him — ages realistically on the 14th — mentoring cardinalpaw
  🗡 speech is "#F2935C" — thoughts are italics — attacks are underlined
  🗡 short haired cream tabby with vibrant red eyes
  🗡 peaceful & healing powerplay permitted — underline & tag when attacking
  🗡 penned by velou — kasaven on discord — open to plots & dms

 

[brindlefeather's icon brindlefeather brindlefeather]

BRINDLEFEATHER ──

thunderclan | forager​

"I guess love is something to be nervous about," Gingerflame says, and Brindlefeather dips his head, sheepishly giving his paws a lick in a rare act of shyness. "It certainly can be." He'd been in love before, a long time ago. Even back then, as bold as he'd been, his paws had trembled and his tail had lashed from the nerves of revealing his feelings. He'd gotten rejected for being 'too nice'. He could laugh thinking back on it now, though, since the whole ordeal equated to a mere apprentice's crush and he'd long since moved on. He can feel a similar nervousness twist in his gut, however, when Gingerflame asks who Brindlefeather is interested in, even offering to help set him up with the object of his affection. If he had shorter fur like the tabby he's currently eye-to-eye with, he's convinced his face would be a visible shade of pink with the way heat pricks at his cheeks now.

What can he even say? 'Oh actually Gingerflame, I was thinking about you, I'll make you that nest and confess to you next to the great sycamore a few sunsets from now.' He can't just be so blunt about it like that! Then again, he'd sooner dive head-first into the icy waters of the river than ever tell a lie. He'll have to do what he always does when he can't admit something, which is to dance around it delicately and postpone the inevitable. Better to risk making a fool of himself than to give in to the urge to deceive.
"Uhm, well. I'd be nervous saying it in the middle of camp like this." It's the first excuse he thought of, but it works well enough by his standards. "What if they, y'know... overhear? I don't want them to know before I'm ready to tell them." Standing a bit straighter, Brindlefeather tries to brush off this feeling like a leaf off the side of his pelt. "I do very much like your idea, though! I've always wanted to confess to somecat with an intricate gift made just for them... I'd owe you one for sure if you helped me pick out some nice bedding materials." Ah, there it is. A reason to spend time with Gingerflame, to decide if this is really something Brindlefeather wants to pursue. Of course, he knows the other forager isn't dumb, he'll likely put the pieces together before they even finish making the nest. But that's a problem that future Brindlefeather will have to handle. Even if the romantic aspect of a potential bond with Gingerflame turned out to be a bust, he'd never turn down the prospect of gaining yet another close friend.

maybe we'll turn it all around 'cuz it's not too late

it's never too late

• ooc:
• "speaking" | thinking | action

 

[GINGERFLAME]

How intriguing. Brindlefeather was never this shy before. It made something within him crawl. He needed to see more of it. If you do that he'll run away. Don't overwhelm him. If you want to see more of that expression, you have to be patient. No matter how tempting it is. All he can do is nod, not wanting to open his maw and say something outlandish. While Brindlefeather was nice, he doubts the other be receptive to being told how it was lovely to see them squirm. Yeah, no.

To be honest he'd forgotten they were in the middle of camp. Where anyone could be listening or watching them. He can't help turning his head away from Brindlefeather, red eyes narrowing on the few cats nearby. They didn't seem quite interested in whatever was going on between them. Although he couldn't help but wonder which warrior had the interest of the forager beside him. A cream ear flicks while Brindlefeather states the object of his affection might overhear. "Sometimes a future mate would like to be told I love you surrounded by others. Other times they prefer privacy. Who knows? Maybe they'll be happy to see you profess your love in the middle of camp. I can't say, since I don't know who catches your eye. You're very friendly." It's not an insult or compliment, it's merely a fact. Brindlefeather is typically surrounded by a group of warriors or is with just one warrior. For the forager to be alone was quite a rare sight. Considering he would always find someone to chat with. In this case, it was Brindlefeather who sought Gingerflame's company.

"In the end it doesn't matter. Confessing in public or private without being ready calls for a disaster." They've both witnessed it before in this clan. A poor sap confessing without practice that they were rejected on the spot. From what he heard, that poor warrior didn't even know the name of the cat he was confessing to! Was it a little more forgiving that the apple of their eye had recently joined the clan? Yes, but they'd been in the clan for only a month when they were met with a confession. Love at first sight was no crime, but at least know the name of the cat your confessing to! Not that he thought it would work for too long anyway. Ask where those two warriors are now and the answer is that they've found mates of their own and started their own families. A happy ending. More or less.

The reaction is immediate. He snaps his head back to Brindlefeather and practically beams. "Of course! It's the least I can do for everything you've done for me." It's the truth. Gingerflame could be doing so much more for the forager beside him."Do you know what bedding materials they like? I don't mind gathering as much materials for you, but if they preferred a nest without feathers it doesn't make much sense to waste time searching for them." He might take this the wrong way. Run a pawstep back Gingerflame. Be clear. You don't want to lose him.

"I'm not saying that an intricate gift is a bad thing. It's not. Most cats, including me wouldn't turn it down, but it'll mean more if you had their preferences in mind. The last thing you want to do is make something they wouldn't like. Like... For me, I won't say no to a nest made with wool. Even though I actually don't like it. I prefer rabbit fur." Did Brindelfeather know that? It wasn't like he made it obvious enough for the others to know. His paws touched wool often and used them in constructing nests. Then, when his fellow foragers gave him a nest with wool, he never turned it down. He accepted it with a smile and slept on it with no (verbal) complaint.

A smirk etches itself from his lips. "Now that you know my little secret, if you bring me a nest with wool... I'll put spiders in your nest!" The atmosphere between them turns playful as Gingerflame now begins to chuff. It's evident that he was joking. For now anyway, who's to say he wouldn't change his mind in the future. In this moment and only in this moment, the mask slips away. "I'm excited." He slings an arm around Brindlefeather's neck and shoulder and moves so that his mouth is right beside the other foragers ear. "Y'know? I've always wanted to have a mate. Someone to love and for them to love me. I don't know what happened back then to you, but I promise to be there for you no matter what. I'll give it my all so you can be happy with the one you love."

COAL TO DIAMOND ✩₊˚.⋆☾ 𓃦 ☽⋆⁺₊✧ SOLD TO FOOLS

• GINGERFLAME

  — forager of thunderclan
  🗡 21 moons — he/him — ages realistically on the 14th — mentoring cardinalpaw
  🗡 speech is "#F2935C" — thoughts are italics — attacks are underlined
  🗡 short haired cream tabby with vibrant red eyes
  🗡 peaceful & healing powerplay permitted — underline & tag when attacking
  🗡 penned by velou — kasaven on discord — open to plots & dms

 

[brindlefeather's icon brindlefeather brindlefeather]

BRINDLEFEATHER ──

thunderclan | forager​

"In the end it doesn't matter. Confessing in public or private without being ready calls for a disaster."
Letting out a small sigh of relief as he nods, Brindlefeather is able to metaphorically shake off the nerves that had struck him so suddenly. "Agreed - I've learned that the hard way, haha..." While true, he's also glad that Gingerflame hadn't persisted in his curiosity; even he is one to avoid a particularly awkward situation from time to time...

His casual, polite smile returns when Gingerflame enthusiastically agrees to help, purring in thanks and nodding along to his suggestions and even remarking on his preference for rabbit fur, rather than wool. Brindlefeather makes a mental note of this, his eyes flicking momentarily to the fresh-kill pile; Hm. I might need to try and catch one or two... although I could maybe ask my sister for help. She wouldn't question why I need it since leaf-bare is on its way - I'm making a lot of nests around this time of year.
When his gaze has returned to his cream-furred companion, he tilts his head slightly and a small chuckle rumbles in his chest. "Rabbit fur... that's funny. I believe that's exactly the kind of material I'd be looking for. It's true that some cats prefer the somewhat sleeker feel of the fur over the fluffiness of the wool..." As his thoughts fill with those of nest-making and materials for such, he closes his eyes slowly as he muses over potential options. "You're right in terms of feathers though. It'd probably be best not to spend too much time looking during this time of year - I'd still keep my eyes and ears pricked for some especially soft-feathered birds, like ducks or pheasants - maybe owl feathers left by their host, if we're very lucky." He hums to himself, satisfied. "But I wouldn't consider it a priority, unless you would suggest otherwise? I'm open to suggestions."

Brindlefeather seems pleasantly surprised by the amount of friendly smiles he's seen upon Gingerflame's face today, and when the other forager quips about leaving spiders in his nest, Brindlefeather laughs along, his fangs flashing in the sunlight as his smile widens.
"Hahaha, don't worry, I would never!" he assures him, though he knows the comment had been in jest. He leans into Gingerflame's embrace as they both enjoy the wholesome moment together, sticking his tongue out slightly in a playful gesture - but his eyes widen when Gingerflame's whiskers brush against his face as he turns to speak lowly in his ear.
"I don't know what happened back then to you, but I promise to be there for you no matter what. I'll give it my all so you can be happy with the one you love."
"Aww, Gingerflame." His heart pounds in his chest as the butterflies come rushing, but Brindlefeather raises a paw to his chest in an act of admiration. Maybe Gingerflame actually would be a wonderful mate... "You're too kind... don't worry - I'm sure you'll find a loving mate of your own soon enough." He glances away, whiskers twitching as he curls his tail closer to the other tom without thinking. "Whoever it may be, they'd be lucky to have you."

maybe we'll turn it all around 'cuz it's not too late

it's never too late

• ooc:
• "speaking" | thinking | action

 

[GINGERFLAME]

Once again, he opts not to push. Only nodding to show his fellow forager that he'd been listening. There is a story there. One where Brindlefeather confessed and was met with rejection. Or maybe something else transpired. Either way it didn't matter. Adding that line of conversation would make things more than a little challenging, as Gingerflame wasn't exactly well suited when it came to comfort. Besides, it seems like Brindlefeather wished to move past it.

It takes strength in not allowing his annoyance to show when Brindlefeather chuckles at his wisdom when it comes to gift giving. I DIDN'T SAY ANYTHING FUNNY! When the other forager states that rabbit fur is funny, ohhhhhhh. Gingerflame nearly lets himself give into the itch to unsheathe his claws and leap at the other forager. Instead, he opts to imagine scuffling with the older warrior over something as asinine as this. He images the look of terror ruining the mottled tom's features and it pleases him with twisted satisfaction. Unfortunately, he is not allowed to completely lose himself to his thoughts. Brindlefeather is still speaking and thankfully they're back on topic about nesting materials. "I actually prefer the fluffiness of wool, but I don't like the smell it has. The smell is bearable to me after crushing berries, but I'd end up with wet patches here and there. It's more of a hassle, so rabbit fur is better. Not to mention that rabbit fur has a pretty nice scent too if you really burrow yourself into it." Perhaps he is odd for taking note of the particular scents wool has. Very few even care about smell, as comfort and warmth were prioritized. He's not sure why he's a bit more sensitive than others when it comes scents. It does help with his job, but as a child? It did more bad than good.

A suggestion or two? Of course he has them."Well... Birds are more active around this time of year, so it wouldn't be too hard to pick up feathers here and there. Catching them will always be a pain, but I'd say if you really want to try your luck... Do it sooner than later. I'd just check for piles of feathers, especially when it comes to ducks. They lose a lot of their feathers during Leaf-fall." It wasn't a secret or anything that before Leaf-bare hit the forest, all the animals residing within the forest became a bit more antsy in preparation for it. Seeing a pile of feathers here and there wasn't too uncommon of a sight. Scraps of fur could be collected from twigs or bushes a little more easily as well. Personally, he loathed duck feathers. Like wool they had a certain stench. However, he will admit that they provided good cushioning and warmth. They were a bit more bearable when placed all the way to the bottom and covered with multiple layers of fur or moss. Owl feathers and pheasants were okay in his books.

Soon? Stars, he hopes so. It's only been getting more difficult to keep this act up. The results haven't faired well these past moons, with everyone having even shorter fuses. Being nice can only get you so far, after all. Most cats did was try and quickly run along. He can understand. With Juniperstar's death they weren't in a talkative mood, but it only highlighted the fact that in all these moons he still wasn't close to anyone. When he saw warriors, apprentices, and kits curling up with others... No words needed to be spoken. No gits needed to be exchanged. These cats only desired to bein each others presence and that was enough. It filled him with envy and loathing. His own family was in a particularly strange spot. His mother was ever loving, but he wasn't sure if it was out of obligation. At the very least his father and younger brother made their disdain towards him evident.

The only cat who he considered a friend was dead. Been dead for moons now, and yet he couldn't forget them. How could he? The lack of true friendship of others made it difficult to leave his only friend behind in the past. In any case he is grateful that Brindlefeather has turned away from him. It's in this moment that his eyes widen, red darkening, pupils shifting to slits. You think I'm kind? The embrace tightens (not uncomfortably) ever so slightly. He opens his maw, only to freeze when he feels something faintly brush against him. The embrace loosens as he turns his head to Brindlefeather's tail.

It's curled close to his own. He knows what this means. Now all the remains is a choice. Whether or not he should take advantage of Brindlefeather's kindness. Isn't this what you wanted? He can't help but frown. None of this came from the goodness of your rotten heart. Don't forget why you even decided to entertain this. Red eyes trail to Brindlefeather's turned away face. Even though its difficult to discern the expression on his face, Gingerflame has no doubts it's a warm smile. Take it, or else he'll abandon you.

His own tail curls around the other, shivering slightly at the sudden ticklish warmth. If Brindlefeather were to turn and face him, he'd be met with a warm smile and kind eyes. "You think so? I think it'd be the other way around. I would be the one lucky to have them. Anyway... I sure hope it's soon like you say Brindlefeather."

COAL TO DIAMOND ✩₊˚.⋆☾ 𓃦 ☽⋆⁺₊✧ SOLD TO FOOLS

• GINGERFLAME

  — forager of thunderclan
  🗡 21 moons — he/him — ages realistically on the 14th — mentoring cardinalpaw
  🗡 speech is "#F2935C" — thoughts are italics — attacks are underlined
  🗡 short haired cream tabby with vibrant red eyes
  🗡 peaceful & healing powerplay permitted — underline & tag when attacking
  🗡 penned by velou — kasaven on discord — open to plots & dms

 

[brindlefeather's icon brindlefeather brindlefeather]

BRINDLEFEATHER ──

thunderclan | forager​

Brindlefeather turns to meet his Clanmate's fiery gaze at the sensation of his tail curling around his own, but he doesn't shy away; rather, his smile matches that of Gingerflame's as their tails twirl together. Maybe he is thinking the same thing, he wonders, and his heart flutters in his chest at the prospect.
"The other way around?" he echoes. "How humble of you." He gives Gingerflame a small but playful nudge. "Perhaps I could help you find somecat to love in turn - we could build a nest each, together!" Of course, Brindlefeather knows the 'somecat' in question is himself, but who knows? Perhaps Gingerflame already has a cat in mind, and Brindlefeather is far too kind to try and come between two potential mates.

As the sun disappears from the sky and the first stars twinkle in the sky, a small yawn escapes his parted jaws and his eyes sweep back over the half-finished moss bed that had started the whole conversation. "Stars, I almost forgot we already have a work in progress right in front of our paws." He uncurls his tail with a bit of hesitance, but when he stands, he stretches his back with a satisfied grin. "Once the moss is all lined around the edges, this would be a perfect base for adding fur lining or feathers - maybe even some berries or flowers to give it a nice, comforting scent..." he turns quickly to Gingerflame. "All merely suggestions, of course! I'm not certain if you had plans to gift this nest to anycat specific... but if not, I'd love to work on it with you some more." He knows he could easily build his own nest from scratch, but wouldn't this make it more special? The nest could be a symbol of the spark that had started here, and Brindlefeather loves sappy things like that.

maybe we'll turn it all around 'cuz it's not too late

it's never too late

• ooc:
• "speaking" | thinking | action