Gathering 2025 and i am scorched by the sun [⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆] november gathering

[Hawkstar]

LEADER OF SKYCLAN

.

The first winter winds had begun to show their dreary faces. Cold and nearly breathtaking, they moaned and drug their wintry claws between the changing trees at the heart of the forest. Where the pine needles of Hawkstar's kingdom were a lush green and undisturbed by the colder elements, the leaves here turned an ashy brown and now littered the forest floor beneath her feet. She could feel the crunch of dead leaves beneath her paws, and she could smell that earthen musk that whisked across her whiskers with every crackling step.

Leaf-bare was fast approaching, and for maybe the first time, Hawkstar was truly glad to now that there were kittypets in SkyClan's ranks that could house the full-time warriors in the case that their newly claimed territory proved to be a barren wasteland in the true winter months.

Bunching her muscles into a hunter's stance, Hawkstar leapt up to the Greatrock was ease, hardened paws barely scraping the side of the stone, an unnoticed process in the wake of her growing anxiety. To be so close to the other clan leaders was truly a curse. Suffering the closeness and touchiness of her own clanmates was one thing, it was another vexation entirely to be forced to sit civilly by Juniperstar and her colleagues. Her forest-born colleagues with their own StarClan and own codes of personal honor that decorated their darkened pelts. Yes, it was that gnawing idea that she was alone in her own theocracy that fueled the urge to tug at the hair just beyond her peach-fuzz shoulder again. But, then again, was the Gathering of all five clans not the perfect excuse to pull the others to a StarClan she knew: a StarClan that had faith in her?

The idea is tempting, if even for just a fleeting moment: "SkyClan fares well these past few moons. Our warriors are strong and our apprentices flourish under the tutelage of my most devoted mentors. I am pleased to announce that two of my warriors have elected to join my council: Quailstep and Brightnose, and our nursery is full and lively with another litter on the way. SkyClan is truly blessed in this time," She grits her teeth behind a plasticky, corporate smile. These cats have no need to know that Rain's coming litter worried her more than it excited her, especially with how uncertain the coming season was.

"There have been bear and dog sightings at the furthest reaches of our territory," the pointed king continues, and she is careful to pick and place each word precisely, so as not to let on to SkyClan's weakness so easily. Their lost warriors, their breach of safety, the devastating toll that the death of Duskpool left behind. An entire lineage swept away by despair in the blink of an eye ... she looks forward, and pretends to ignore Flowercloud's slumped shoulders beneath her. "these animals will no doubt be as much of a threat to any of you as they were to us. I advise caution wandering out too far without a full patrol or buddy system."

There is a hint of her own threat under her cool tone: a rendezvous into SkyClan territory would no longer be treated as a minor infraction. To trespass was to meet a foe as vicious and fearsome as the evoked ideas of dogs and bears. After the attacks on Cinderpaw, Chrysalisgaze, and Rosebelly leading to bruises, fatal wounds, and laterally death, Hawkstar's patience had long since run out. SkyClan would not allow itself to be a punching bag to these forest-born ravagers. Hawkstar would not allow it.

"But luckily, there is nothing else we need to share. That's all from SkyClan."

// please wait for the leaders to post before replying !

pointed torbie

◆

67 moons

◆

she / they

◆

bio

 

[Dustystar Dustystar]

✪ Align my Heart, my Body, my Mind​

indentBack here, again. It felt like only a pawful of sunrises that Dustystar had hidden away here, nursing wounds while waiting for the storm to pass. The clearing was far dryer, now, but only slightly less cold. Having a dry coat of fur made the wind easier to bear, at least.

indentThey're the second group to arrive, evidently. Skyclan had been the first. Hawkstar sits alone on the Greatrock. Reluctant, Dustystar joins her. With no other leaders present, she doesn't have an excuse not to sit next to Hawkstar. Still, she leaves a respectful distance between them - just large enough for another leader to come and sit between them, if they wanted to save Dustystar from Hawkstar's piercing eyes.

indentOnce all the clans have arrived, the announcements begin. Once again, Windclan is second. Dustystar stands to say her part.

indent"Windclan has faced great difficulties this past moon. Rainstorms and flooding have caused much damage to our camp." Dustystar had to keep herself from clenching her jaw and baring her teeth, instead of speaking. Admitting any weakness on behalf of Windclan feels wrong. "Thankfully, nobody was lost. Our cats have banded together to recover quickly. I'm very proud of them all." She coats her words with honey, hiding the bitter truth. Although the physical injuries have left, it's impossible to deny the weight that now weighs on the shoulders of each Windclan cat. The threat of losing their new home, so soon after leaving the barn, looms like a shadow behind them.

indent"In light of the flood, we've accepted some new cats into our ranks. Though they weren't clan cats, they came to our aid in a time of great need, and we have chosen to repay them by offering them a home in Windclan." Though Dustystar is naturally suspicious of newcomers, she's been worn down slowly over the past few months. It would be foolish to deny that the cats that have come to live among them since Windclan's formation have been fundamental to their continued success.

indent"Of course, our youth have continued to exceed expectations. We have multiple new apprentices and warriors among us." Her steely demeanor can't keep Dustystar from smiling. "I'm sure, as they grow, Windclan will only become stronger and stronger."

indentHaving said her part, Dustystar sits, placing her front paws on top of her tail to keep them off of the cold stone. "That's all. Thank you."

Dustystar - 27 moons - Windclan Leader

 

[loonstar loonstar]

juniper

"and this time, she won't be forgiving"​​

there have been losses unsurmountable, ones that had serrated edges, leaving deep gouges in still-bleeding hearts. this is no night of celebration for Loonstar, who walks through the growing crowd with a frown dug into the normally softened features of her face. it would be a moment to show power in their perseverance and a revealing of an open wound. would it be wise to share the gaping hole Serpentberry has left? the spotted tabby seats herself with the other leaders with a level stare, devoid of the diplomatic cheeriness that she might've once afforded them. they have proven themselves unfaithful to the cause of shared survival, evident in the barb-tongued warning of predators that would surely rend themselves like a plague through neighboring territories. 'we survived but will you?' hidden in the narrowing of sharp eyes.

she cannot sum up any sort of good will to hearing that WindClan remains strong despite a flood ravaging their territory. spurned by Dustystar's refusal to do the right thing, to tell the truth. she looks towards her clan, gathered in the masses before stepping forward to announce herself the next speaker. "We stand under the particularly bright light of the stars tonight-- Serpentberry hangs amongst them, our first medicine cat, none so loyal or talented as to have kept ThunderClan afloat during our foundation with no formal mentor to guide her. She will be missed, undoubtedly..." by her, most especially, most selfishly. her tail snaps around her ankles like an antsy rattlesnake, warning of her eagerness to lunge at the first person to disgrace her widower's name.

"Despite that, we remain... we move forward. We have several new, talented young warriors amongst our ranks, including my own former apprentice. We maintain the health of our kits and prepare for the presence of new ones as new queens take shelter in our nursery. Prey has not yet fled our lands... we hope that the whole forest remains bountiful so none become tempted enough to do something foolish." trespass... start a war they couldn't win... violate an alliance.

she finds herself looking towards Pikestar, brow furrowing with an unspoken question. can you keep your warriors under control? or will they ruin this for both of our clans?

she shakes out her fur like it is necessary to throw the cold from seeping into her coat. "I've also abandoned the moniker of Juniperstar. You'll address me as Loonstar now. My council finds strength in new blood and we will maintain our borders ferociously... we will not be taken advantage of this leaf-bare." a warning, a promise.

she sweeps her tail around herself as she steps back to take a seat, ending her declarations with a low bow of her head. onto the next...

──✩°｡⋆⸜ ✮

•  
• loonstar
  leader of thunderclan
  six lives remain
  

 

[SABLESTAR]

SABLESTAR
he/him
sixty-two moons
shadowclan leader

PENNED BY gonkpilled

ShadowClan would arrive to the grand oaks looking even worse for wear than typical. Though this time instead of scarred and furless, his warriors appeared dull-coated and thin. A wordless notion to the hunger they faced from the previous moon that dreadfully spread on to the next. Cold seeped in with the wind and rain, it was no use cleaning the gritty muck from his paws. Sablestar, however, too pride to look weak in any regard, stepped forward with the same confidence and grace as usual.

Most of the other Clans had appeared already- again. Does their camp spread the furthest from this place? He wondered only briefly, the distance must not matter too much. It only looked as though they arrived mere minutes after the rest. His gaze moved quickly to follow Juniperstar's path as he followed the bounce of her tail, leaping onto the stone with Hawkstar and Dustystar. His ears twitched as Dreampaw echoed between them. Loonstar. What a joke.

The tuxedo followed after with a prepared leap, hooking his claws to the stone the moment he felt it beneath his paws. It was uncomfortable to balance on, nothing like the wavering muddy ground he normally travelled across. They could see all their warriors from up here- maybe Hawkstar had the right idea, then. Easier to spot little spats here and there, lest they wanted another visit from their dear ol' StarClan pals again. Sablestar rolled his eyes at the thought of the sparkly spirits while Hawkstar boasted SkyClan's 'beautiful little blessings'. He wondered how truthful it was when he found himself in the same position. An overcrowded nursery with too many hungry mouths and too little prey. They didn't appear to be facing the oncoming leafbare as harshly, he noticed.

WindClan's troubles are brushed on by like a breath in the wind. Sablestar occasionally nodded in a slow tip of his head. Of course the rains could be seen from their borders, but he hadn't assumed any dangerous peril from it- he believed if it had been serious enough Dustystar may have reached to the Thunderpath for help. He glanced to the other WindClanners quickly in a small sweep, seeing how they took the words of their leaders admittance to struggle. She had done well not to make it look so humiliating, at least. They were still strong in the end.

Of course it is Juniperstar that carried on the torch, the heat of his impending turn growing intensely. She doesn't stall, instead stepping into her words with a caring farewell to-

Serpentberry? Amber-wrapped amethyst snapped toward the colorless stare of his own medicine cat in the crowd below. His expression is unreadable, but his gut twisted to think Cicadabuzz may have had something to do with it in an act of revenge. Was bug the sort to bother with revenge? Either way, that must solve the residual lingering ick in some manner. Lest Serpentberry's apprentice also had a hand in bugs attack. Looking to Rowanpaw, he didn't measure any sort of grim motivation in her before. But thing's change, heart's especially so, in the face of survival. It doesn't hover in the air for very long though as Juniperstar closes her time with what Sablestar expected her to start with. Yes, the retributive Loonstar baring her teeth at her peers.

"ShadowClan has faced a tragic loss last moon." The leader began, giving a sideways glance to the spotted tabby. "My Night Guard Coalstrike, a long time friend of mine and dedicated warrior to ShadowClan since it's creation, was killed. His dying breaths named his son, Copperstorm of ThunderClan, as his murderer." Sablestar fell silent for several moments for his friend. Whatever commentary was given, he had no interest in getting in debate with. His Guard was dead, and ThunderClan should consider being grateful he did not let his warriors ravage their forest in repayment. "Unlike some of those here beside me, I don't find blood payments anything less than rotten-hearted. But the truth deserves to be known." His tone did not rise above anything neutral, keeping his efforts in his voice remaining steady.

Sablestar tipped his head up to hold high once more, squaring his shoulders. "Coalstrike was forced to leave behind a half dozen kits, but their father's loss has given them immense strength to learn from while they grow beside their denmates. In fact, ShadowClan's nursery is still rarely finding itself empty, showing great promise in light of our loss." Sablestar meowed, raising a paw to swipe his tongue over and press down his chest fur. "That is all for ShadowClan." He finished with a narrowed look to the RiverClanner beside him. Sablestar's gaze paused, as if regarding Pikestar at all for the first time.

This was the leader of RiverClan?

​

OOC:

 

[PIKESTAR PIKESTAR]

It was strange to be seated among the other leaders. Even more so with the seemingly sudden shift from Juniperstar herself. When he tried to approach her there was a darkness in her eyes. It was as if her heart was sealed away. The reasons why were unknown. He could only guess it was due to the conflict between SkyClan and ThunderClan, but it felt wrong to place the blame on Hawkstar and her warriors. They've made it clear to be neutral. Some of them hate ThunderClan, while others want nothing to do with SkyClan. He thinks of Frostmoth who spoke of his distaste in learning of the code SkyClan knows, yet he couldn't fault the deputy. It was supposedly a code that was outdated. From that stance it seemed pointless in learning something that didn't matter. Then, he thinks of Coyoteclaw. She viewed ThunderClan as nothing more than bloodthirsty dishonorable warriors who only craved for more bloodshed.

Oh, how complicated it all was. Still... It ached that Juniperstar seemed more distant than ever. Along with something that made the fur on his back prickle. Either way, he silently sat beside the other leaders. Do I look out of place? I don't really look scary. He quickly glances at each leader while Hawkstar begins with her announcements. Yeesh. You'd think we're holding a vigil or something. Hawkstar looks... Serious as usual? I dunno. She's just got that... Hawkstar face? Dustystar looks exhausted. Juniperstar looks... Upset? Huh, did you always look like this? His gaze lingers on Sablestar's figure for longer than he wanted to admit. Burning the dullness of his pelt and how thin he'd become into memory. Geez, what happened to everyone? I feel kinda bad actually. He tears away his gaze from ShadowClan's leader to stare at his own paws.

What news did he have to share? What news should I share? He thinks of all who have gone before him. They've shared good news and bad news. Although the bad news is quickly glossed over. What does linger more than it should is that fact that Hawkstar warns them. She has no reason to warn the clans of bears or dogs. It would be in her best interest to keep it to herself and let the clans meet an untimely demise. None of them would have ever known or blamed her for it. As for Juni- It's Loonstar now. He can't forget the gaze she had given him. Was she threatening him? RiverClan? Or was it to all the clans? She wouldn't just look at me for no reason. He thinks of the Sunningrocks. It had always been a... Strain between their clans.

Sablestar announces a ThunderClan warrior killing a member of his guard, the very same one who was present when Adderfang killed him. Although, he barely has any time to process it when the very same leader practically insults Hawkstar. He can't help but gaze at the tortie. Eventually Sablestar's announcements have come to an end. He is the only leader that remains to say what has transpired within RiverClan since the last gathering. Although, he first returns the burning gaze from the ShadowClan leader beside him.

He tilts his head to Hawkstar.

"Thank you for the warning, Hawkstar. I will pass this information along to the rest of RiverClan. I also wish to congratulate Brightnose and Quailstep in joining SkyClan's council."

With that, he turns away from her and looks to his clanmates. He dares not speak of how they would ensure that SkyClan would prosper. It is a risk in itself to even mention her warriors. Frostmoth without a doubt is sending him disapproval for his words. He understands. Understands that the clan has decided to remain neutral. Even if he was friendly towards them, he would do his best in ensuring the clan's safety. Thankfully for Frostmoth, he would cease responding to other leader's news.

"Riverclan has also gained several new talented young warriors, including my former apprentice as well. Our numbers have increased tremendously. The nursery has remained lively and we expect plenty of apprentices soon. Another litter is on its way, and our prey has remained bountiful."

To those within his clan, they'd note how oddly he carried himself. After all, Pikestar was not afraid to share. However, with how complicated things have become... He needed to be more mindful of his words. That being said... It's already suspicious that there is no bad news. What should I share? Definitely not the fact that our guard only consists of Russetfall. Sablestar lost one, but that's just one. Not a pawful. Saying it would only lead to disaster.

It's with a sigh that he continues.

"We are no stranger to loss. Mudpool, an honorable warrior, has died. They died saving the life of their apprentice. Our medicine cat apprentice, Rainpaw, has also gone missing. We've sent numerous search parties only to no avail. She continues to remain lost to us. Nevertheless, RiverClan will continue pressing forward. "

Is this good enough? I haven't said anything strange, right? I didn't give up too much about our situation. At least I hope so.

"That's all from Riverclan."

He does not move from the Great Rock, unsure of when he is meant to leap down and converse with others.

𝐨𝐨𝐜 𓆩♱𓆪 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭

• PIKESTAR

  — leader of riverclan, former shipyard cat
  ♱ 43 moons — he/him — ages realistically on the 1st — mentoring iciclepaw
  ♱ speech is

  "#36D9AB"

  — thoughts are italics — attacks are underlined
  ♱ short haired silver mackerel tabby with green eyes
  ♱ peaceful & healing powerplay permitted — underline & tag when attacking
  ♱ penned by velou — kasaven on discord — open to plots & dms
  

 

[Copperstorm]

You walk along the edge of danger
AND IT WILL CHANGE YOU

.

Copperstorm couldn't deny that he'd been fussing over Dewshine all day, from the moment he'd learned she was allowed to attend the Gathering. His gaze had constantly drifted toward her swollen belly, worry gnawing at him like claws beneath his ribs. Every shadow on the path, every uneven step, every breeze that smelled the slightest bit wrong, he'd imagined a hundred things that could go wrong on the journey to Fourtrees. But Dewshine was, well... Dewshine. She was stronger than others often gave her credit for. She had wanted this, and Copperstorm knew that if she hadn't, she would have told Loonstar and turned back to the nursery without hesitation.

So eventually, he'd conceded, albeit with a heavy sigh and pressed close to her on the way. He'd promised to keep watch, to help her if she so much as wobbled. He'd even teased her softly as they walked, brushing his tail against her flank and earning the affectionate bap he knew so well. Now, nestled among the gathered Clans, he sat where Dewshine felt most comfortable, his plumey tail curling protectively around her. Here, beside her, was the only place that truly felt safe. He didn't need to join in the mingling chatter, he was content to simply be... Listening, watching, and keeping his mate close.

As the leaders began to speak, Copperstorm's golden eyes turned to the Great Rock. Hawkstar's voice carried first, talk of SkyClan and their new council, of nursery news and prey runs. At the mention of kits, Copperstorm's eyes softened, catching Dewshine's for a heartbeat, a quiet purr rumbling in his throat. But his expression soon hardened again at the mention of bears and dogs. Thinly veiled threats in another Clan's tongue... Familiar, exhausting. Dustystar spoke next. Floods in WindClan, new warriors, new apprentices. A better report than many Gatherings past. His tail twitched, a silent acknowledgment.

And then came Loonstar. His leader.

Pride and grief warred in his chest as she spoke of Serpentberry's passing, of ThunderClan's strength despite the loss. When she mentioned new warriors, and their good fortune, he dipped his head respectfully. Then, the renouncing of her old name. The rise of Loonstar.

It was only when Sablestar began to speak that Copperstorm felt a cold grip seize his heart. His expression stayed carefully composed, unreadable, as it always was in public... But inside, something twisted tight. Coalstrike. The name struck like a claw to the chest. For a heartbeat, his ears rang, the rest of the Gathering fading into a dull hum. What was she saying? That Coalstrike had named him in his dying breath? That couldn't be right. Dewshine had told him that his father was dead. Truly, utterly gone. Copperstorm's gaze flicked sharply toward her, confusion flickering in his golden eyes before he forced them back to the Great Rock. His ears angled back, his shoulders stiff beneath his dark fur.

He had told Loonstar everything. Every vile word, every threat his father had hurled at his mate, at their unborn kits. He had told her how the fight ended, how the monster had come crashing through and taken Coalstrike down before either of them could even move. They hadn't killed Coalstrike.

Coalstrike had killed himself.

By his pride, his cruelty, his refusal to let go of his hatred. And yet here he was again, haunting Copperstorm from beyond StarClan's reach, his name twisted into another Clan's narrative, his poison bleeding into a night meant for peace. Copperstorm's jaw clenched, muscles rippling beneath his pelt. He said nothing, not yet. But his eyes, bright and burning like twin embers, never left Sablestar's face.

When Pikestar finally spoke, Copperstorm found himself breathing again. The RiverClan leader's tone was calm, even... Normal. No threats, no smugness. Just news. Simple. Grounded. It was almost funny, that the cat of the river would sound the most like solid ground tonight. He dipped his head once more, but his body stayed tense, jaw clenched, heart beating hard beneath his fur.

He prepared himself for what was to come.

Speech, thoughts/emphasis

36 MOONS

𖧧

THUNDERCLAN

𖧧

SONG

𖧧

bio

 

[Wavesong]

The ocean is in my soul,
And it's pulling me back to shore.
I'm letting go of the weight that's dragging me down.

.

Wavesong moved forward with her usual fluid grace, slipping past familiar pelts with a nod and a smile. It had been moons since she'd attended a Gathering properly, but with her kits now four moons old... She supposed they were old enough to spend one night without her curled in the nest beside them. They'd be safe. Littlebrook, even with her injury, would keep a careful eye on them, and young Icicle was reliable as any guardian. Still, it tugged at her heart to leave them behind, especially Troutkit, who had nearly glued himself to her leg before she left. She'd promised him she'd return with a story, maybe even a trinket from the island, and that had been enough to coax a smile out of him. It hurt, but she couldn't stay tucked in camp forever. She needed to stretch her legs, breathe in the night air, and listen to the river of voices that flowed between the clans again.

Her stride slowed as her gaze swept the clearing. WindClan looked ragged, their pelts matted with dust and mud. ShadowClan, stars above... They looked starved thin. ThunderClan carried grief in their eyes, and SkyClan... Well, SkyClan looked as proud as ever beneath their pointed king. A hint of amusement flickered over her muzzle as she spotted their deputy, offering the cat a brief, knowing smile before taking her place among the crowd.

She dipped her head politely to the cat beside her, blue eyes sparkling with gentle curiosity as she turned her attention toward the leaders. The usual formalities passed, kits, apprentices, warriors, the rhythm of clan life. But between those ordinary words lay whispers of hardship: WindClan's floods, the death of a medicine cat at ThunderClan, SkyClan's troubles with beasts. Her ears flicked back as she thought of Rainpaw, heart tightening in her chest. Wherever the young medicine cat was, she prayed the stars watched over her.

And then... Juniperstar-- No, Loonstar. The sight of the ThunderClan leader drew a slight frown from Wavesong. Had she caught the cat glancing at Pikestar just now? Was this about the Sunningrocks patrol? She had only ever suggested compromise, not conquest. But stars, the tension between the clans seemed to thicken with every moon. Sablestar's booming voice broke her thoughts. A ThunderClan warrior had killed a ShadowClan night guard. Her whiskers twitched as she glanced across the clearing, scanning unfamiliar faces. So much sorrow hung in the air tonight.

When Pikestar finally stepped forward to speak for RiverClan, Wavesong's chest swelled with quiet pride. They had weathered their share of hardship, but compared to the rest, RiverClan still stood strong. " Quite th'things that've happened, huh? " she murmured softly to her neighbor, her tone warm but heavy with reflection, eyes still fixed on the leaders.

Speech, thoughts/emphasis

41 MOONS

𖧧

RIVERCLANNER

𖧧

SONG

𖧧

bio

 

[Quailstep Quailstep]

QUAILSTEP
SHE/THEY
37 MOONS
SKYCLAN SUN GUARD
SPEECH | THOUGHTS | PHYSICAL

PENNED BY PLOT

For what it's worth, Quailstep's first Gathering is definitely not as horrific as the first one in their new home. There's certainly another accusation of murder - once again ThunderClan, she notes - but their leader doesn't call for retribution. She wondered if the newly-named Loonstar would react at all- if the murderous Clan would turn on themselves eventually. Her gaze landed on some ThunderClan cats, and her eyes narrowed.

Foxhearts.

While she dipped her head respectfully to Hawkstar at the mention of her promotion, she was glad that there wasn't much attention on her and Brightnose - there were so many new faces here and she was, admittedly, a bit overwhelmed. Rather than back away as her instincts told her to, she merely nodded to her neighbor, murmuring a quiet response.

"Indeed," she said to the RiverClan cat - she may not have met many of that Clan, but as they shared a border, the scent was unmistakable. "I'm sorry to hear of your Clan's medicine cat apprentice - that's a loss that hits terribly deep to a Clan."

​

OOC: Talking to @Wavesong

 

[Hollowmist's iconHollowmist]

♢Worried 'Bout The Future

Ain't Fuckin' With The Past♢

It sits, stone-faced and pressed against its brother. After how the first gathering had gone, Hollowmist was not particularly thrilled about this. Hadn't Fourtrees seen enough bloodshed? Would tonight be another night that devolved into spilled blood and strained ties? It briefly wonders when it had become such a cynic compared to Halfshade and Bluegale...

Each leader is tuned out until Sablestar steps forward, and a faint growl leaves their throat when Coalstrike's murderer is named. Was Copperstorm here? Was he aware of the half siblings he'd now left without a father? It hoped the realization crushed him. Whatever the reason had been for it, it wasn't enough to justify this. Wherever Coalstrike was, Hollowmist hoped he was haunting his son for this sin."Sablestar should have called for his blood," It hisses to @bluegale, tail twitching in agitation behind them. It had not even been close to Coalstrike by any means, really. The extent of its interactions with the tom had been when he saved their life during the raid on Riverclan. But the idea of one's own family turning on him like that... It felt impossible. A blasphemy. Blood was perhaps one of the most important things to the chimera. The closeness with its siblings an undeniable truth. "I can't imagine what was running through his mind when he decided to kill his own family."

If there was one thing that was certain after tonight, it was that they would show no mercy if it happened to cross paths with Copperstorm.

Ain't Got No Time To Waste On Bullshit

♢

You Know I Gotta Keep My Head On Straight

• ooc notes:
• 
  Hollowmist
  — Thief of Shadowclan
  — It/They
  "SPEECH", 'THOUGHTS', ATTACK
  — A LH Black/Fawn Chimera W/ High White (LaPerm)
  #a7767c

 

[brightnose!'s icon brightnose! brightnose!]

BRIGHTNOSE | SUN GUARD
"ALWAYS CONFUSING THE THOUGHTS IN MY HEAD"

.

At her last Gathering, Brightnose had been hesitant to attend; being around so many other cats is overwhelming, and she had hardly wanted to socialize with the other forest cats, especially amidst the looming threat of continued conflict with ThunderClan. This time, however, she's all but leading the way to the giant clearing, trailing just behind Hawkstar and keeping her eyes peeled for a particular RiverClan chimaera who she longs to see... Not this time, I guess, she thinks with a small sigh, scanning the other Clan's attendees to no avail. She finds herself sat next to Quailstep as the announcements begin, looking up at the Greatrock to listen to her leader speak.

Her eyes widen slightly at the mention of her promotion in front of everyone, and she can feel the gazes on her pelt, fur prickling with mild embarrassment. She tries to muster up an awkward smile, not daring to glance away to see if anyone is actually looking or if it's all just in her head. That smile is short-lived, however, and her lips curve into a small frown the moment that the word 'dogs' leaves the pointed king's mouth. Hawkstar notably does not mention that the canine beasts had taken the lives of multiple of their warriors - probably for the best, especially with ThunderClan listening. The last thing SkyClan needs is to appear weakened and vulnerable to attack. Still, Brightnose's heart sinks a little when she thinks of Duskpool, a loss that is still felt amongst the Clan as a whole and a warrior who will surely be remembered for generations.
She listens to the announcements given by the other leaders with piqued attention; as much as she dislikes the crowdedness of the Gathering, she does find it imperative to get a grasp of how other Clans are doing and who to watch out for. WindClan seems to be recovering from the flood well, but ThunderClan has lost their medicine cat; Juniperstar - Loonstar now, apparently - is as passive-aggressive as ever when it comes to protecting their borders. Brightnose resists the urge to roll her eyes, which is only strengthened by Sablestar's accusation of guilt amongst ThunderClan's ranks concerning the death of his Night Guard. Killed his own father... hardly surprising for the band of rogues that call themselves a Clan. Brightnose would be more sympathetic if it weren't for the ShadowClan leader's subtle criticism of Hawkstar, and the tip of her tail twitches with annoyance upon hearing it. SkyClan aren't the fox-hearts here... it's ThunderClan that is full of murderers and traitors. Leave our leader out of it. She doesn't dare to say it out loud, not wanting to cause unnecessary drama.
RiverClan is last, their leader Pikestar extending congratulations to the new Sun Guards and detailing the loss of one warrior, along with their medicine cat apprentice gone missing. Of course, she'd already heard most of this from Coyoteclaw, but she still dips her head in a solemn, respectful moment of silence for the cats they had lost.

With announcements finally out of the way, Brightnose gazes out into the sea of forest cats, watching as many of them turn to each other to mingle. She'd been so excited by the idea of seeing Coyoteclaw that, without her here, she doesn't really know what to do with herself...

---

ooc; open to any interactions!!

"SO I CAN'T TRUST MYSELF ANYMORE"

BRIGHTNOSE
SKYCLAN SUN GUARD
21 MOONS
SHE/HER
"SPEECH" | THOUGHTS | ACTION | #61BD6D

 

[Jaypaw ⏾]

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆ Jaypaw ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☽⋆⁺₊⋆-

Any other time, Jaypaw would have been ecstatic about being picked to attend the gathering. But after the recent events... he couldn't help but wonder if it was a good idea. The whole thing left a bitter taste in his mouth and he felt on edge even before they had made it to the gathering itself.

At least Merrystalk and Sunnyspring were also there - he wanted to keep an eye out on the latter, just in case. And the former was his anchor, his one safe spot, shall anything go wrong.

But Jaypaw was not to cling to his fellow WindClanners - he was to mingle and get to know their neighbours, he was to be in strange company for one night. It was going to be alright, he told himself, as the clearing filled up with more and more cats. For the sake of not appearing strange and embarassing WindClan, he sat down to the closest cat he did not recognise - RiverClan, he noted as the scent hit his nose. The smell of fish and water was unmistakable. Jaypaw dipped his head in greeting, but spoke not.

And when all the leaders have arrived and started speaking, Jaypaw listened, fascinated by the words they chose, the half truths and careful selection of information. He supposed it made sense, though he couldn't imagine how hard it must have been, to stand in front of all these cats, adressing them all.

Dustystar spoke of the storms only briefly and Jaypaw had to tense his frame to stop the shudder threatening to shake him once more. He felt glad that his leader chose not to linger on that for too long - for their sake and for the sake of not revealing too much. Jaypaw admired that.

He listened to the other leaders speak, of warriors and clanmates lost, though none of the names told him anything - he didn't know the other clans nearly as well as his own, nor did he care if he was being honest. WindClan had enough to worry about as was.

He didn't even know how, but where his anxiety resided at first, there was nothing now. His breathing was calm and steady, his paws still. Something about this night felt so... peaceful. To be among so many, despite all the tragedies they all faced, united under one moon. Jaypaw knew this was not a guarantee, he had heard of the happenings of the other gatherings, but he held onto the hope that this one would go without an issue. It had to.

At Pikestar's final words, Jaypaw turned to the RiverClanner sitting next to him. "That was, uhm..." he struggled to find the words. "enlightening?"

OOC: Sitting next to @ivytwist but open to interaction with anyone!​

 

[Belladonnadance Belladonnadance]

She was almost relieved to have been picked to attend the gathering this moon, especially after reuniting with Duskpool. Their meeting had been... strange, with both feeling like they were seeing a ghost. Duskpool had assumed his daughter was long dead after the pair were separated in twolegplace, and Belladonna --- Kazumi as she was formerly called, had assumed her father had been ripped to shreds by the dogs that he led away. She felt a bit awkward looking for the senior warrior here, especially considering their meeting had been while she was attempting to steal prey from Skyclan. There was almost a lump in her throat looking about, knowing that her father was in an opposing clan --- someone she could one day very well meet on the battlefield. However, the colony had saved her life, and her personal loyalty lead her to follow Shadowclan when they broke apart.

The quiet molly approached some of the gathered warriors, looking around for the stocky body of her father. His scarred face. They weren't able to talk much in Skyclan territory, the older tom flanked by warriors, a hawk swooping down and attacking. While he was open with those present about her and their relationship... their discussion was brief, and he mentioned finding each other at the next gathering to properly catch up on the many years the pair had missed. However, as she padded about, she could not see his frame among those gathered. Her shoulders slumped slightly, and she let out a small sigh. She didn't dare approach the leader of Skyclan, knowing that she was from an opposing clan, and it was possible one of her warriors had mentioned her being found a bit too close to the territory.

She was always a rather quiet molly, she spoke little, and the idea of having to approach people she wasn't comfortable with made her heart pound. She approached a rather fluffy scarred molly, her Skyclan scent strong. Large, cream coloured with amber points and green eyes --- her flank dashed with numerous scars. She was younger than Belladonna, but she had a proud aura to her that seemed to be currently snuffed out. Her shoulders slumped, eyes clouded, she looked utterly defeated.

Belladonnadance swallowed hard, sitting near the molly and clearing her throat. "P-pardon me." She began, "I was wonderin' if Duskpool was about?" She nervously bounced between her two paws, feeling like there was a lump in her throat asking a stranger --- someone from another clan a question about one of their own.

___________________ I'M BENDING BACK INTO THE VOID 𓇗 MY EYES STARING UP INTO BLACK ___________________

• "mew"
  interacting with @flowercloud
  
• 
  

  

• BELLADONNADANCE
  Formerly known as Kazumi
  she/it, shadowclanner, sixty-seven moons.
  𓇗 a lh black smoke molly with moderate white and amber eyes
  𓇗 mentored by helleboremask / mentoring no one
  𓇗 daughter of sakura and duskpool
  𓇗 peaceful and healing powerplay permitted / / underline and tag when attacking
  𓇗 penned by asteiri ↛ please dm on discord or post in #asteiris-astronomy for plots.