Society (Warrior Cats Supplement)
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Society[edit]
While the adventure focuses on the clan cats, there are other groups of cats. Even amount the clans, each of them are different from each other.
Clans[edit]
It is any group of cats that name themselves with a -clan suffix, follow the warrior code, and believe in StarClan. If not all are meet, they are normal group of cats.
General Culture[edit]
Clan Meeting[edit]
- Purpose
A Clan meeting has one or more of the following purposes:
- Announcing important events or sharing information, such as relating what happened at a Clans' Gathering.
- Conduct a ceremony, such as appointing new apprentices, warriors and deputies, confirming the retirement of elders, or changing the name of a cat.
- Warn Clan members about dangers, such as the fox traps, a flood, or an impending attack.
- Bring the Clan members together to discuss an important matter.
- Procedure
Clan meetings have no fixed dates; a meeting can be called at any time, whenever the leader feels the need to do so.[6] It is the privilege of the Clan leader to convoke a meeting.[7] However, sometimes other Clan cats do it; for example if they feel that an important information or question must be brought to the Clan.
To begin the meeting, the leader climbs to a high place where all cats gathered below can see and hear them well. Each clan has a different call. They open the meeting with the following words:
ThunderClan "Let all cats old enough to catch their own prey gather here beneath the Highrock (or Highledge) for a Clan meeting".
RiverClan "Let all cats old enough to swim gather to hear my words!".
ShadowClan "Let all cats old enough to catch their own prey join here beneath the Clanrock (Pinebranch) for a meeting!"
SkyClan"Let all cats old enough to catch their own prey join here beneath the Rockpile (Highroot, Tallrock, Tallstump) for a Clan meeting!"
WindClan "Let all cats old enough to catch prey gather beneath Tallrock for a Clan meeting."
Once having the attention of all cats, the leader passes the message or performs the required ceremony.
Gathering[edit]
A Gathering is a peaceful meeting of the Clans on the night of a full moon. As said in the warrior code, there is a truce, which forbids fighting during the Gathering. It is considered a great honor to be chosen by a Clan leader to go to a Gathering. In the forest, this meeting was held at Fourtrees, while at the lake, this place has been moved to the island. In SkyClan's gorge, Gatherings were held on Skyrock.
- Purpose
On Gatherings, Clan leaders announce current affairs and significant events within their respective Clans, such as the appointment of new apprentices, warriors, and deputies, the deaths and births of cats, and the retirement of cats. They also use this time, if necessary, to ask for help from others.
Warriors use this chance to meet their friends from other Clans and exchange information and stories. Many cats will use a Gathering to try to determine the strength and weakness of another Clan.
Clan leaders hold Gatherings to share news with the other Clans, or to discuss changes to Clan life, such as additions to the warrior code or new customs, or threats that affect all the Clans.
Gatherings are meant for meeting new cats, but not to share Clan weaknesses and strengths.
- Procedure
The Gathering is held on the night of the full moon because it is the only time that the moon is bright enough to see everything and everyone. If clouds cover the moon for days leading up to the Gathering, that moon's Gathering will be skipped. The leader, the deputy, the medicine cat and their apprentice, if they have one, several warriors, apprentices, queens, and elders participate from each Clan. If a leader cannot attend, the deputy will speak on behalf of their Clan.
Once arrived at the Gathering territory, the leaders sit on a designated high spot along with the other leaders where they can be seen and heard well while talking to the warriors and to each other. Deputies sit close by. A yowl by a Clan leader is the signal to start the meeting. It is considered to be disrespectful if any other cat speaks from atop the leader's spot, unless specifically asked. As decreed by StarClan, the nights of the Gatherings are a time of peace. If there is any violence, StarClan sends a cloud to cover the moon signifying their displeasure; usually the Gathering ends if this happens. After the leaders finish sharing their news, the Clans often mingle or share-tongues before leaving.
A Gathering can happen at anytime in case of an emergency.
- Areas
Fourtrees:
- Leaders on the Great Rock.
- Deputies at the base of the rock.
- Medicine cats at the edge of the rock.
- Everyone else in a clearing beneath the four trees.
Island:
- Leaders in the branches of the Great Oak.
- Deputies at the roots of the tree.
- Medicine cats at the roots of the tree.
- Everyone else in the clearing.
Skyrock:
- Leader on a boulder near the cliff.
- Deputy next to their leader.
- Everyone else on the Skyrock. Senior warriors get priority.
- The young, old, or injured sit on the trail across from the gap.
Mates[edit]
- Taking a mate
Two cats are usually considered mates after spending some time together, being seen sharing tongues often, and after some kind of confession of love, or asking them if they would like to be mates. Usually when cats are apprentices or warriors, they will show some sort of affection toward a certain cat. Clan cats usually take a mate from the same Clan, although there are examples of pairings from different Clans or groups. However, sometimes cats from different Clans will mate secretly despite it being against the warrior code. It is not unusual for a cat to have more than one mate in their life but not at the same time. After a while, if they stop showing affection, or if their mate dies, they will usually take on a new mate. Breaking up is fairly rare, but can happen.
Medicine cats, either male or female, are not allowed to take mates, in order to be fully dedicated to their medicine cat duties.
Patrol[edit]
Patrols are organized groups, usually consisting of three or more warriors and often their apprentices (if any of the warriors happen to have one) monitoring a specific area or to carry out a specific task, such as hunting or scouting.
- Border patrol
All Clans are expected to check and mark their boundaries daily, challenging all trespassers, as decreed by the warrior code. This is done by border patrols. Usually, Clans patrol their borders two times a day: at dawn and at sunset, unless more are needed due to danger or threats such as rogues, foxes, or badgers.
The Clan deputy assigns warriors to lead border patrols, and the patrol leaders choose which cats they wish to take with them. Upon returning to the camp, the patrol leaders report to the Clan deputy, who, in turn, reports to the Clan leader.
- Hunting patrol
Hunting patrols are groups of cats who hunt for prey to bring back to the camp for their Clan to eat. Several hunting parties are organized each day. Deputies ensure that hunting patrols have been organized and are out and about in order for the Clan to eat, but these patrols are not always appointed by the deputy, and do not take place at a specific time; any warrior can go on a hunting patrol at any time of the day, or even hunt by themselves. Cats are not allowed to eat while on a hunting patrol (unlike those who are on a border patrol).
- Search patrol
Warriors can be assigned the task to find a missing cat (for instance, a kit or apprentice who wandered away from the camp) or to look for information.
- Journey patrol
Warriors, apprentices, and sometimes medicine cats can be assigned on a journey patrol, normally to interact with other groups like the Tribe of Rushing Water or The Sisters.
- Message patrol
If a message or question to another Clan is too urgent to wait until the next Gathering, a party can be appointed to bring it to the other Clan's leader. Usually only a few warriors are sent, so they would not be mistaken for a raiding party. They wait at the border until a border patrol from the rival Clan comes to escort them to the camp to speak with their leader.
- Water patrol
Water patrols are made up of warriors who carry water to the cats staying in the camp (such as queens and elders) during a drought, when the water needs to be fetched from a large distance away. They use bundles of moss to carry it.
Ceremony[edit]
Apprentice Ceremony[edit]
- Process
When a kit turns six moons old, they are ready to become an apprentice. Until this time, their name ends with the "-kit" suffix. When a kit becomes an apprentice, their name is changed so that the suffix of their name becomes "-paw", showing the path that their paws are now on.
- Apprentice ceremony
The Clan leader calls a Clan meeting to appoint a new apprentice and assign a mentor to them. The following words are used, by tradition:
Leader: (kit's name), you have reached the age of six moons, and it is time for you to be apprenticed. From this day on, until you receive your warrior name, you will be known as (new name, ending with the suffix "paw"). Your mentor will be (name of warrior or medicine cat). I hope (name of warrior or medicine cat) will pass down all he/she knows on to you.
The leader calls up the warrior he/she has chosen as a mentor.
Leader: (name of warrior or medicine cat), you are ready to take on an apprentice. You have received excellent training from (former mentor), and you have shown yourself to be (quality) and (quality). You will be the mentor of (apprentice), and I expect you to pass on all you know to (apprentice).
The mentor touches noses with the apprentice, and the Clan greets the new apprentice by calling out their name. After this, the apprentice will usually go greet their family, or go see their mentor.
- Medicine cat apprentice ceremony
The leader calls a Clan meeting, after the Clan's medicine cat announces that they wish to mentor an apprentice. After their ceremony, the mentor touches noses with the apprentice, and the Clan greets the new apprentice.
- At the Moonstone/Moonpool
At the next half moon, the medicine cat goes with the apprentice to the Clans' sacred place to present them to the warrior ancestors, where the apprentice confirms their wish to be a medicine cat. The following words are used, by tradition:
Medicine cat: (Apprentice), is it your wish to enter the mysteries of StarClan as a medicine cat?
Apprentice: It is.
Medicine cat: Then come forward.
Medicine cat: Warriors of StarClan, I present you with this apprentice. They have chosen the path of a medicine cat. Grant them your wisdom and insight so that they may understand your ways and heal their Clan in accordance with your will.
The medicine cat apprentice touches their nose to the Moonstone or drinks from the Moonpool. Then the medicine cat and the apprentice lay down and have a dream from StarClan.
Deputy Ceremony[edit]
A deputy ceremony is when a Clan leader names the Clan's new deputy. This happens when the previous deputy dies, retires, is exiled, or is promoted to leader. According to the warrior code, a new deputy must be appointed before moonhigh (midnight) that day.
- Process
The leader calls a Clan meeting, and performs the ceremony by announcing these words:
Leader: I say these words before StarClan, so that the spirits of our warrior ancestors (or former deputy name) may hear and approve of my choice. The new deputy of (Clan) is (warrior's name).
- Exceptions
Occasionally, a Clan leader does not announce the new deputy before moonhigh. This can be because they are physically or emotionally unwell, or they are unsure whether the previous deputy is alive. If the ceremony is not performed in time, it can sometimes be seen as a bad omen.
If the deputy dies in battle, the Clan leader might choose to appoint the new deputy whilst still fighting, instead of waiting to return to the camp.
Elder Ceremony[edit]
An aging warrior, queen, or medicine cat may retire as an elder due to own initiative, when they feel they cannot help the Clan efficiently any more.] A cat may also retire if they are hindered from serving their Clan through old age, illness (Tawnyspots), or injury (Stonepelt). They report this to the Clan leader, who calls a Clan meeting and addresses the warrior.
- Process
Leader: ...Is it your wish to give up the name of a warrior and go to join the elders?
Clan member: It is.
Leader: Your Clan honors you and all the service you have given to us. I call upon StarClan to give you many moons of rest.
The Clan will call out the retired warrior's name and then they will go to the elder's den. An elder may receive a completely different name, with a Name Changing Ceremony, than keeping their warrior name.
Leadership Ceremony[edit]
- Process
The new leader goes to the Moonstone (or Moonpool) with the Clan's medicine cat. After touching the stone (or drinking from the pool), the new leader cannot move for a short period of time, because their old life is being ripped away so they can receive nine new ones. Upon awakening, cats of StarClan come down from Silverpelt (milky way in the night sky). Nine cats, normally ones who were significant during the new leader's life or the Clan's history, although this is not always the case, give them their nine lives with these words:
Life giver: (Touches nose to the top of the new leader's head) With this life, I give you (gift). Use it well (to, in, as, for, etc.) (use of gift).
When all of the lives have been given, normally the previous leader says these words:
Previous leader: I hail you by your new name, [original prefix]star. Your old life is no more. You have now received the nine lives of a leader, and StarClan grants you the guardianship of [the Clan they lead]. Defend it well; care for young and old; honor your ancestors and the traditions of the warrior code; live each life with pride and dignity.
Often, after all the lives are given, the previous leader usually conducts the coronation for the new leader. However, sometimes the previous leader does not speak at the ceremony, or it is unknown if they are actually present, and another cat will conduct the coronation for the new leader - often the last cat to give them a life, but it also can be performed by the entirety of the amount of StarClan cats known to be present in the ceremony.
Just as the forest-cats would call a warrior by their new name, the StarClan cats acclaim the new leader. After the ceremony, the new leader is not allowed to tell any cat what happened during the ceremony, with the exception of the medicine cat.
Each of the lives normally give the new leader a great deal of pain as a sign to ready them for the hard work it normally will be to lead their Clan. However, certain lives, depending on the gift, do not cause pain and instead give the new leader a much better feeling.
Getting nine lives does not necessarily mean that a leader will live longer, but they can survive certain accidents or injuries that would normally claim the life of a cat. However, they cannot survive if they have major injuries.
If a leader no longer wishes to be the leader, they must go to the Moonstone/Moonpool to revoke all but one life, so their deputy may receive their full nine lives. If the old leader is still alive without retiring, the new leader receives 9 - the remaining lives of the old leader.
In rare cases, a cat chosen to be leader that has already died may be taken to the Moonstone/Moonpool to be revived by StarClan. The revived cat only receives eight lives, as they had already used up one of their lives prior to the ceremony.
- Gift
During the leadership ceremony, nine gifts/lives are given to the new leader. Those gifts are virtues or traits that the leader might lack in or need more of and aims towards making their leadership fair to all cats they lead. In rare cases two or three gift is given from a single life. Loosing a life does not loose a gift. A gift are just wise suggestions of traits that the leader will need to lead their clan or improve on.
Medicine Cat Ceremony[edit]
Apprenticeship for medicine cats usually lasts much longer than those for warriors. The cat must learn about all available herbs and remedies, and the treatment of diseases and injuries.
Once the Clan's medicine cat is satisfied with the apprentice's knowledge, they go to the Clans' sacred place (such as the Moonstone or Moonpool) or if the mentor is no longer fit or alive to continue their role. This is the only ceremony that is not performed by the Leader. The following words are used, by tradition:
Medicine Cat: I, (name), medicine cat of (Clan), call upon my warrior ancestors to look down on this apprentice. (He/she) has trained hard to understand the ways of a medicine cat, and with your help (he/she) will serve (his/her) Clan for many moons. (Apprentice), do you promise to uphold the ways of a medicine cat, to stand apart from rivalry between Clan and Clan and to protect all cats equally, even at the cost of your life?
Apprentice: I do.
Medicine Cat: Then by the powers of StarClan I give you your true name as a medicine cat. (Apprentice), from this moment you will be known as (new name). StarClan honors your (virtues), and we welcome you as a full medicine cat of (Clan).
The medicine cat rests their muzzle on the apprentice's head, and they lick the mentor's shoulder. The other medicine cats greet them by their new name.
Name Changing Ceremony[edit]
A name changing ceremony is an event in which a Clan cat gets their name changed. This change can happen because of injury, a wrong choice by a previous leader, or an individual's dislike of their current name. A Clan leader is the cat to perform this ceremony, as warriors generally do not choose their own names. The cat may suggest a the new name or request for the name to be changed.
Names are important part of Clan culture. When a cat's name no longer portrays who they are, a Clan leader can perform a ceremony to change a cat's name to something different. The main cause of this ceremony is likely due to a life-changing injury, and is not always taken well by the cat being renamed or their family. Some cats have been known to embrace their new name and use it to their advantage, and not letting their name define them. This process is not always welcome in the Clan, and given that warriors do not choose their name, it is considered disrespectful to ask for a new name and to reject what the Clan leader has chosen for you. While a leader can compromise with a request to change a name, they do ultimately have the final say in what a cat's name will be due to Clan tradition.
- Process
A Clan leader calls for a Clan meeting,[10] and can use the following words to rename a cat by speaking to StarClan:
Spirits of StarClan, you know every cat by name. I ask you now to take away the name from the cat you see before you, for it no longer stands for what [they are]. By my authority as Clan leader, and with the approval of our warrior ancestors, I give this cat a new name. From this moment on [they] will be known as (new name), for (description of the reason).
Vigils[edit]
For a new warrior, a vigil is something that they must perform after having received their warrior name. This process consists of staying awake the entire night and guarding the camp in complete silence. This event is also used to honor a fallen Clanmate. In this instance, a cat stays up all night to honor the memory of their Clanmate.
- After Warrior Ceremony
The most important thing that a new warrior can do, these kinds of vigils are to show a dedication to their Clan. This is considered part of the warrior code, and all new warriors are required to stay awake the entire night. It is generally considered bad to speak during their first vigil, unless in case of emergency. If this is the case, cats are to awaken their leader and then the warriors. New warriors are not permitted to eat during their vigil, but they are allowed to drink if they are thirsty. They guard the camp in silence, while the other Clan members have a good rest.
New warriors are supposed to use this time to reflect about their new responsibilities and communicate with StarClan. A warrior's former mentor will let a new warrior know when their vigil is over, which is when the sun is up. Breaking this vow of silence is not something accepted by a Clan leader, and cats can be reprimanded for breaking the vow. It is taken very seriously by the entire Clan.
- After a Cat's Death
If a Clan cat dies, their body is taken to the center of the camp, and several of their Clanmates, usually the cat's family members and close friends join the vigil. If a cat's mentor is still alive, or if they had an apprentice, they will also sit vigil for them through the night. This is a way of sharing tongues for the last time before the elders and other important cats in the Clanmate's life, bury the cat in the morning. If a Clan is not able to sit vigil for their fallen the entire night, they sit for as long as they can.
In the event of a death of a well-loved and respected Clan leader, sometimes multiple Clans will sit vigil for them. If a Clan is mourning their fallen Clanmates after a large battle, those most important to the fallen cats, such as mates and children, will also assist the elders in burying them.
There can also be vigils for cats whose bodies cannot be found, or cats who have disappeared and are presumed decease. There is no burial, due to there not being a body, but the cats can still sit vigil and mourn their loss.
Warrior Ceremony[edit]
An apprenticeship usually lasts six moons or more. Once a mentor is satisfied with their apprentice's progress and skills, they recommend them to the leader of the Clan. Then, the apprentice must pass an assessment, in which their abilities as a warrior are checked. In cases when the apprentice has just made an important contribution to the Clan, the leader may decide that there is no need for an assessment.
- Process
If the Clan leader is satisfied with the assessment, they call a Clan meeting and call the apprentice forward. The following words are used, by tradition:
Leader: I, (Leader), leader of (Name)Clan, call upon my warrior ancestors to look down on this apprentice. They have trained hard to understand the ways of your noble code, and I commend them to you as a warrior in their turn.
Leader: (Apprentice), do you promise to uphold the warrior code and to protect and defend your Clan, even at the cost of your life?
Apprentice: I do.
Leader: Then by the powers of StarClan, I give you your warrior name. (Apprentice), from this moment on you will be known as (new warrior name). StarClan honors your (virtues), and we welcome you as a full warrior of (Clan).
The leader rests their muzzle on the apprentice's head, and the former apprentice licks the leader's shoulder. The rest of the Clan then greets the new warrior by calling them by their new name. The warrior will sit a silent vigil guarding the camp that night, unless that is not possible or if the cat is injured.
Occasionally, these extra lines are added at the beginning:
Leader: (Mentor), has your apprentice, (apprentice), learned the skills of a warrior? Do they understand the importance of the warrior code?
Mentor: They have.
This is only used in some cases, though not under specific circumstances. Usually, it depends on what the leader feels like saying, or how the leader has been taught the ceremony goes.
- Virtues
During the apprentice's warrior ceremony, two major virtues of the apprentice are listed; the first is usually courage.
- Dying Apprentice Ceremony
When an apprentice is on the verge of death and has proven themself to be worthy of a warrior name, there is a special ceremony used so that the apprentice may take a warrior name to StarClan.
Leader: I ask my warrior ancestors to look down on this apprentice. [They] have learned the warrior code and given up [their] life in the service of [their] Clan. Let StarClan receive [them] as a warrior. [They] will be known as (new name). Let StarClan receive [them] by the name of (new name).
The leader then touches their nose to the new warrior's head.
Dark Forest (Place of No Stars)[edit]
"Tchah! Why would you want to go to StarClan? That place is full of old weak-willed cowards who clung to the warrior code like ants to a leaf in a puddle."
— Mapleshade
- Specialty
Dirty and very deadly fighting style that is blend of all clan's fighting styles
- Favored Terrain
Starless forest
- Prey
There is no life in this place
- Trope and Facts
Limitless Hatred: They are willing to do everything in their power to end the clans
Deader than Dead: It is possible for a Dark Forest cat to be killed a second time. Where they go to after they disappear, no cat knows.
Dream Weaver: Dark Forest cats can go into the dreams of living cats to speak or train with them.
Cunning Villains: They make big plots to extract their revenge. Plots so big that the good guys eventually figure it out.
Cats Are Magic: StarClan cats can enter living cats' dreams, influence real-world events by creating omens, and even enter the physical world from time to time.
Remember the Dead: Spirits stay in StarClan or the Dark Forest until they become completely forgotten by all other cats (dead or alive). Once they're forgotten, they fade.
RiverClan[edit]
"This is a Clan unlike any other—a Clan with all the strength, brilliance, and beauty of water. Welcome to RiverClan. I am Leopardstar, the leader here. Can you hear the river? In its flowing current you can see what makes us the greatest Clan in the forest. Nothing can stand against the forces of water, just like nothing can defeat RiverClan warriors when we rise up together. But when trouble comes, RiverClan knows how to weave through the dangers, adapting to the changed world just as the river flows around rocks and over waterfalls. We are grace. We are power. We are RiverClan."
—Leopardstar
RiverClan cats are known for their amazing skill at fishing and love for the water. They also love beautiful things and are known to collect rocks, shells, and feathers to decorate their dens. They are contented, sleek, well-fed cats with well-groomed fur. They are known to be clever and graceful but are perceived outside their Clan as being stubborn and lazy. Their long fur and glossy coats are an asset while swimming. RiverClan gets by in leaf-bare (winter) because, according to other Clans, they fatten themselves on fish during greenleaf (summer) in preparation for leaf-bare. Sometimes other Clan cats call them "fish-faces", or "fish-breath". They are quite strong swimmers and move through the water as if they are part of it. Their lightning reflexes help them scoop fish from the bank. RiverClan cats often go well-fed, even during leaf-bare, and their sleek and handsome pelts are often something Twolegs are attracted to. Many Twolegs see this, and often take these cats to live in their homes, although RiverClan keeps quiet about it because many of those cats do not come back.
- Specialty
Swimming, water combat
- Favored Terrain
Wetland, or shores of lakes, rivers, and streams.
- Prey
They eat mainly fish, but they also eat water voles, shrews, and mice. RiverClan cats dislike adding birds to their fresh-kill (food) pile.
- Trope and Facts
Aloof Ally: In a crisis situation, RiverClan's first priority is the safety and well-being of their own cats. Even in peacetime, they sometimes ignore the problems of other Clans. However, they will help other Clans on occasion without being asked.
Arch-Enemy: They have the worst relationship with Twolegs, who routinely poison their river with garbage, drive away the fish with their loud antics, and even steal RiverClan cats to keep them as kittypets.
The Beautiful Elite: RiverClan cats are noted to be very beautiful, with sleek and glossy pelts. Unfortunately, this trait also makes them vulnerable to being stolen by Twolegs who want to keep them as kittypets.
Ooo, Shiny: RiverClan like to collect and decorate with pretty objects.
Crippling Overspecialization: In the forest, the river in their territory is the easiest source of prey, but this also means they go hungry when something prevents them from taking prey from the river, such as newleaf floods, the water freezing over, or Twolegs poisoning the fish.
Dark Secret: Many RiverClan cats have been stolen by Twolegs to be kept as kittypets because of their beautiful pelts. RiverClan has never told any other Clan about this, because very few of the stolen cats ever returned.
Does Not Like Spam:They generally avoid mammalian prey like mice, squirrels, and rats, only eating it when they're desperate.
Forever War: In the forest, RiverClan and ThunderClan constantly fought over the rights to Sunningrocks. The argument only ended when the Clans were driven out of the forest territories.
Theme Naming: Many RiverClan cats have names related to water
ShadowClan[edit]
"Greetings. I am Blackstar. You must be brave indeed, to approach the territory of ShadowClan. Few are welcome here, in our world of secrets and darkness. We are a Clan of cunning and cleverness, a Clan well suited to the shadows and the cold north wind. No other Clan can walk the paths of night like we do. Other Clans may be faster and stronger, but we are the most dangerous warriors: fierce, proud, and independent. We are ruthlessly willing to do whatever it takes to protect our great Clan. There won't be any softhearted alliances here! ShadowClan will always be the dark heart of the forest."
—Blackstar
ShadowClan are proud, loyal, defensive, and slightly arrogant. They often seem to be misunderstood and said by the other Clans as battle-hungry, aggressive, ambitious, and greedy for more territory. It was often told when the Clans were in the forest, that the cold north wind of the mountains chilled the ShadowClan warriors' hearts. ShadowClan has the smallest amount of territory and prey, which may justify their willingness to add anything to the fresh-kill (food) pile. Even though their fierce warriors and hostile leaders gave ShadowClan its reputation, not all of their leaders are unfair and cruel. When ShadowClan lived in the old forest, their secret food source was the carrionplace (garbage dump), though they were careful not to eat crow-food (rotten). ShadowClan cats hunt best at night and are better than others at sneaking through undergrowth. In battle, ShadowClan cats use shadows as an advantage to fighting
- Specialty
Remain effective in darkness or in light. Stealth
- Favored Terrain
marshlands and pines forest
- Prey
Their main prey is reptiles and amphibians, such as lizards and frogs. They also hunt rats from this area when prey is scarce. All of these food are disgusting to all other clans.
- Trope and Facts
Blood Knight: They have a great hunger for battle and will readily fight to defend their territory.
Cats Are Mean: The Clan of cats with the darkest reputation, bar none.
Combat Pragmatist: ShadowClan cats aren't afraid to fight dirty in order to win.
Dark Is Evil: This Clan has produced many vile cats who have killed many in their quests for power...
Dark Is Not Evil: ...but at the end of the day, most ShadowClan cats are just like any other Clan warriors, fighting to survive and keep their Clan alive.
The Dreaded: Feared by all the Clans, thanks to their bloodstained history and reputation as cold-hearted killers.
Evil Is Not Well-Lit: Their territories are the least rich in prey, so they became skilled at hunting during the night.
Grim Up North: Normally thought to be the most "evil" Clan, they live in the northernmost territory.
Mercy Kill: ShadowClan medicine cats use deathberries to kill uncurable cats in great pain.
SkyClan[edit]
"We are strong, skillful, and more honorable than any of the five Clans of the forest."
— Cloudstar
SkyClan is strongly built hind legs which allow them to jump great heights or distances inherited from their ancestors, ancient SkyClan. They have rough, hard gray pads which help them to jump and walk long distances on hard, rough surfaces without breaking skin, which makes them infected. This feature allows them to climb and hunt in the trees, hence the name SkyClan.
- Specialty
Climbing, jumping, and tree based combat
- Favored Terrain
Forest
- Prey
Eating mainly squirrels, mice, voles, and many kinds of birds.
- Trope and Facts
Unperson: After their exile from the forest, the other Clans ceased talking about SkyClan entirely out of shame for what they'd done. Since the Clans have no written records, only oral tradition, this meant that SkyClan was eventually forgotten by the later generations and had no trace of their existence left.
Fear of Rats: After experiencing what rats can be with an evil rat leader, most SkyClan fear rats
StarClan[edit]
"I am Lionheart. I was a ThunderClan warrior. In a fierce battle, I died defending my Clan. Now I belong to StarClan, a Clan of the spirits of our warrior ancestors. Yes, you are dreaming. We often walk in the dreams of those we watch. Don't be afraid. I know it looks like a land of mist and shadow, but I promise there is enough light to warm the darkest of hearts. From here, we watch over the Clans we have left behind."
—Lionheart
- Specialty
Guiding the living cats
- Favored Terrain
Silverybelt (milky way)
- Prey
Anything the desire
- Trope and Facts
Afterlife Welcome: It is tradition for a deceased cat to be guided to StarClan by a loved one, often either a close relative or a deceased mate. The guide is not always someone they knew in life.
Cats Are Magic: StarClan cats can enter living cats' dreams, influence real-world events by creating omens, and even enter the physical world from time to time.
Celestial Body: StarClan cats leave starry paw prints when they walk, their eyes shine like stars, and their pelts glow with a strange light that makes them look like they have stars in their fur.
Cessation of Existence: When a StarClan or Dark Forest cat is completely forgotten by living cats, they gradually fade away into nothing. However, if either receives an injury that, in life, would be fatal, they just disappear instantly.
Cryptic Conversation: For no discernible reason, they're often cryptic when speaking to or giving prophecies to the Clans.
Deader than Dead: It is possible for a StarClan cat to be killed a second time. Where they go to after they disappear, no cat knows.
Dream Weaver: StarClan cats can go into the dreams of living cats to speak with them.
The Ferryman: This role is shared by all of StarClan. They pick one of their warriors to guide a dying cat to them, usually one who was important in the cat's life. Fluffy Cloud Heaven: Their hunting grounds are a warm and sunny place where there is lots of prey to eat.
Healthy in Heaven: After joining StarClan, a cat will be healed of any injuries or sickness they had in life.
Heaven Above: StarClan is said to be located within the collection of stars above, locally known as Silverpelt, which humans would call the Milky Way.
Hypocrite: Despite their revered and self-proclaimed nobility, StarClan sometimes shows severe double-standards, especially about who they let into their ranks.
No Animosity in the Afterlife: The Clans all have an intense territorial rivalry with one another. However, all borders break down when they die and join StarClan, living together in peace.
Not-So-Omniscient Council of Bickering: They're supposed to watch over and guide the Clans.
Leaderless: They do not have a leader
Remember the Dead: Spirits stay in StarClan or the Dark Forest until they become completely forgotten by all other cats (dead or alive). Once they're forgotten, they fade.
Spirit Advisor: StarClan cats serve this role, guiding their former Clans and cats in it that they cared about.
Stars Are Souls: Every star in the night sky is said to be the spirit of a StarClan cat.
The Watcher: StarClan very pointedly state that they give advice, and watch over the living cats, but they do not interfere directly.
ThunderClan[edit]
"I am Firestar. Welcome to ThunderClan—the Clan of courage and loyalty. I was not a forest-born cat, but ThunderClan welcomed me, and once I proved myself as a warrior, they grew to respect me. I have risen to become their leader, and I would lay down all nine of my lives for my Clan, just as my Clanmates would lay down their lives for me and for each other. There is no other Clan in the forest so true or so brave. I respect and admire the other Clans, but my heart is here, with ThunderClan—the Clan of heroes, the Clan of compassion, the Clan of destiny."
—Firestar
ThunderClan is a mainly peaceful Clan, and respectful of the other Clans as well. In battle, ThunderClan is fierce, courageous, and loyal. They are known to often take loners and kittypets into their Clan to either swell their ranks or because the cat is in need of help or shelter. For this, they are at times looked down upon by other Clans and thought of as weak. They have excellent stalking techniques, creeping across the forest floor. ThunderClan cats are noted to be especially strong.
- Specialty
Quick ambushes and fighting in dense terrain
- Favored Terrain
deciduous woodland
- Prey
The Clan's main prey are mice, voles, squirrels, and the occasional rabbit, as well as birds such as starlings, magpies, wood pigeons, blackbirds, and thrushes.
- Trope and Facts
Enemy Mine: ThunderClan are quite willing to work with the other Clans are common threats
Forever War: In the forest, ThunderClan and RiverClan constantly fought over the rights to Sunningrocks. The argument only ended when the Clans were driven out of the forest territories.
The Hero: ThunderClan are often portrayed as the noblest and most just of the Clans.
No Good Deed Goes Unpunished: They are known to be companionate, to a fault.
Screw the Rules, I'm Doing What's Right!: Of the four Clans, ThunderClan cats are the most likely to break the rules if they feel it's necessary to do the right thing.
WarriorClan[edit]
"Yes, we're WarriorClan. Clan cats have lived on this territory for seasons. You must either submit to our authority, or face our wrath!" — Monkeystar
WarriorClan is an unofficial Clan created by some adventurous kittypets from the local Twolegplace to honor the four warrior Clans that resided in the old forest territories previously. Graystripe comes across WarriorClan in the old RiverClan territories. They are in awe of being in the presence of a real life warrior cat. Graystripe teaches them some basic hunting and fighting skills upon their request, which they promise to practice. With his help, they become closer to becoming a real clan.
- Specialty
Balancing between Kittypet/Loner life and clan life.
- Favored Terrain
River and Twoleg village
- Prey
Kittypet food, fish, and birds
- Trope and Facts
Unofficial Clan: None of the clans are aware of WarriorClan's existence.
Easy Life: Without hostile cats and dangerous wild animals, they never need to fight for their lives.
Fake it until you Make it: WarriorClan pretended to be a real clan until GrayStripe, a ThunderClan cat, show them the ropes.
Clan Fan: They are big fans of the other clans.
Brand New Clan: They are still working on traditions and ideas. They are open to new ideas to test them out.
WindClan[edit]
"Welcome. I am Tallstar, and this is WindClan—a Clan that has known great suffering, but always survives. We are the fleet-footed warriors of the moor, the fastest Clan in the forest. We have struggled through terrible hardship, but we never give up. I know the other Clans sometimes see us as weak...but the truth is, they could not last a moon in the broad, open spaces we live in, chasing rabbits for prey. We are the closest Clan to StarClan, spiritually and physically, and we always know our warrior ancestors are watching over us. That is what makes us strong. No matter what trials we must endure, WindClan will last forever."
—Tallstar
WindClan cats are known for their love of open spaces. They are small and wiry compared to the other Clans. Of all four Clans, they are the least used to wet ground, preferring the grassy ground of the moors, which they sleep on. They do not like to sleep in the shelter of dens because they prefer the fresh air. They are fiercely loyal and tough. They can also be nervous and quick to flee, due to lack of cover on the moor. In the old forest home, they took pride in being the closest Clan to the Moonstone, where the leaders and medicine cats went to share tongues with StarClan, and they often find themselves blessed to be the closest Clan to StarClan, both physically and spiritually since they do not live in an environment surrounded by trees or many shrubs that block their view of Silverpelt (Milky Way). They are considered the fastest of the Clan cats, and are considered to be the most quick witted amongst the other Clans. They are also the easiest to be offended and are the least likely to start battles between other Clans. The pelts of WindClan favor shades of gray and brown, perhaps as a natural outgrowth of the camouflage those colors provide, but there has been many other shades before.
- Specialty
Running and tunnel navigation
- Favored Terrain
Moor
- Prey
Their main prey of hares and rabbits.
- Trope and Facts
Martial Pacifist: They have a reputation for being a peaceful Clan, unlikely to invade another Clan's territory for food or power. But they will fight hard to defend their territory and their Clanmates, just like any other Clan.
Beware the Nice Ones: Despite their peaceful reputation, they can become a very dangerous enemy when provoked
Small and Weak: They're often considered weak by the other Clans, due to the vulnerability that comes from living out in the open.
Cowardly Lion: More often than not, WindClan cats are believed to be scrawny weaklings compared to the cats of other Clans due to their light frames and running abilities. However, WindClan has shown more times than one to be just as fierce as anyone else.
The Determinator: Despite all the hardships they go through, they grit their teeth and keep on going
Do You Trust Me?: They don't trust outsiders easily—or sometimes, even their own Clanmates
I Fight for the Strongest Side!: In times of crisis, their strategy is to form alliances with whatever Clan is strongest at the moment, in order to protect themselves. Whatever their enemies say, this farsightedness is a strength, and it is a mistake to think WindClan cats are ever truly loyal to any but their own Clan.
Pals with Jesus: WindClan is thought to be the closest Clan to StarClan, because they live on an open hill under the night sky. The first medicine cat, Mothflight, was also of WindClan.
Cat and Water don't Mix: They dislike being wet more than most cats
Theme Naming: Many WindClan cats are named after types of birds or have bird-related names.
Tribe of Rushing[edit]
The Tribe of Rushing Water is a group of mountain cats. Tribe Cats are mostly smaller and leaner than Clan cats, and smear their fur with mud to camouflage them, blending in with the rocks. It also helps them to keep warm at higher altitudes, and can be a coating. Their camp is located at the end of a rocky path that leads behind the waterfall, screening them from the outside. The cave, which burrows under the mountain, is as wide as the waterfall, and has narrow passages that lead off on either side.
Traditions[edit]
Single Meal[edit]
Tribe only eats one meal per day. Prey Sharing is when one cat take a bite of the prey and pass it to the next cat.
Born to the Role[edit]
The Teller of Stones (leader and healer) decides if a cat becomes a prey-hunter or cave-guard based on their appearance when they are born. Very rare for a cat to switch their role.
Ceremonies[edit]
Similar to clan's ceremonies as they share the same traditional root.
Aspects[edit]
- Specialty
Mountain survival and camoflage.
- Favored Terrain
Mountain
- Prey
Mostly bird but sometimes mice and small mountain animals.
- Trope and Facts
Line-of-Sight Name: Tribe cats are named for the first name their mother sees when they are born.
Only Known by Their Nickname: Justified, because their full names are simply too much of a mouthful to say on a regular basis.
Others[edit]
BloodClan[edit]
"Look around you! These cats are bathed in blood. It soaks their fur and laps at their paws. This is why we survive! We are BLOODCLAN!" — Scourge
BloodClan are a large group of alley cats who live together in Twolegplace for mutual protection. Within Twolegplace, they have a meeting spot where the leader addresses them. This area is located beside a row of monster dens and is protected by tall buildings. BloodClan also uses monster (car) dens as shelter and as places for Clan meetings.
These cats are a Clan in name only, lacking the belief in both the warrior code and StarClan, as shown with the Clans. Despite this, they clearly follow their leader's word and fights for leadership are not uncommon within the group. They have no medicine cat and kits are mentored by their mothers until they are of age, then, they are forced to rely on BloodClan's support. Sick cats or elders are left to fend for themselves, with no support due to the group's mentality of "kill or be killed". BloodClan cats are also known to wear collars studded with dog and cat teeth. It is thought that they wear these ornaments as trophies
- Kill or be Killed
They focus on strength above all. Being temporary weak from injury or sickness? Out of the clan. Anyone can fight the leader for leadership.
- Teeth Collar
They wear a collar made from dog and cat teeth.
- Dog Hunter
They are so good at combat that they can hunt down dogs.
- Specialty
Sacrifice their own life force to deal extra damage
- Favored Terrain
Twoleg Village
- Prey
Twoleg's garbage
- Trope and Facts
Blood Thirsty: If they see a weaker creature, they will attack and kill it.
Strength is Power: They willing to do anything for power, even risking their own life.
Fearless: They only fear creatures strong than them. That has not been found, yet.
Guardian[edit]
"We don't all dream of being a warrior. We're healers, not fighters, and we managed to live in peace before you arrived. Not every argument needs to be settled with claws."
— Fierce
The guardian cats live in an urban area in the basement of a church-like building. They take in and treat sick cats and are generally peaceful. They are all equals and do not have a ranking system. All cats share responsibilities evenly. Cats with permanent injuries stick around forever
- Divided Roles
Like Tribe of Rushing Water, cats are split into different roles: hunt, guard, and heal. Cats can be in multiple roles.
- Specialty
Treatment expert
- Favored Terrain
Twoleg Village
- Prey
Twoleg garbage
- Trope and Facts
Heal, not Harm: They look for ways to avoid fights. They even heal their enemies.
Battle Peacekeepers: While they avoid battle, they can hold their own in fights.
Equality: Each cat is equal. They don't have a leader.
Open Door: Any cat can come in to be treated or visit
Good Samaritan: The guardian cats are essentially this; they take in injured and weak cats from the city and care for them, not asking for anything in return.
Kin[edit]
"You can save your sympathy. I don't need it. I have a family now. These are my Kin."
— Darktail
The Kin is a band of rogues who don't believe in the warrior code and are not considered a Clan. They appear to have no medicine cat but know what several herbs are and what they do. They are ruthless and attempt to copy the Clans' ways of life. They lived near the ShadowClan border, and while they are close to the Clans, their way of life is vastly different. They live off fear, and only the strongest cats can survive. Weakness is not tolerated in any way, and those they consider weak do not last long.
- Specialty
Combat expert
- Favored Terrain
none
- Prey
none
- Trope and Facts
Rule by Fear: They control their group though fear and brutality.
Poisoned Apple: They are good at appearing to be friendly to new cats, until they take the bait.
Dishonorable: Kin purposely dishonor the enemy's traditions.
Great Evil: Kin will do evil deeds because it better than good deeds.
Kittypet[edit]
"I know all about being a kittypet, and it's not as easy as you think. You only eat when the Twolegs give you food. You only go in and out when the Twolegs say you can. Is that what you really want? And then there's the Cutter."
— Macgyver
Kittypets, also known as everkits, are looked after and pampered by Twolegs. Many are plump because Twolegs feed them several times daily with dry, tasteless pellets that look like rabbit droppings and soft slop, according to Clan cats. They are soft-muscled and know very little about the arts of fighting and hunting (with notable exceptions). At a certain age, they are taken to be neutered or spayed by the veterinarian, who is otherwise known to the Clan cats as the Cutter. After this visit, they usually become lazy and have no desire to do much.
- Specialty
Twoleg expert
- Favored Terrain
Twoleg Nest and backyard
- Prey
Twoleg feed
Sisterhood[edit]
"Our ancestors were kittypets, as you call them. All the Sisters are descended from den-bound cats. Our first Mothers were one family."
— Moonlight
The Sisters are descended from a single kittypet family, and as such, retain much of the physical appearances as their ancestors; notably having long, thick, and sleek fur, as well as being large and well-muscled. The Sisters are much larger and stronger than the average Clan cat. All members of the Sisters and cats descended from them, can communicate with ghost cats.
The Sisters appeal more to the she-cats of the group. The leader of the Sisters is always a she-cat, as none of the toms stay past kittenhood. The cats of the group tend to call the older she-cats "Mother" even if not biologically related; cats of similar age often call each other "Sister", or "Sisters", while the toms are simply referred to by name only. While there is a leader, some she-cats, tend to also take on a leadership role but are never outright called a leader, acting as a second in command of sorts.
- Favored Terrain
None
- Prey
None
- Trope and Facts
Nomads: They are constantly moving
Girl Power: Female rule this Sisterhood
Girls only: only females are in Sisterhood
I See Dead People: Sisterhood can see and talk with the dead.
Big Ones: Sisterhood are the biggest cats around.
Loner[edit]
"A loner is a cat that isn't part of a Clan or cared for by Twolegs."
— Graypaw
Loners often stake a claim on an area around Clan territory. These places are often near places where Twolegs often inhabit, such as on farms, abandoned homes, barns, or any sheltered area. They tend to keep to themselves and stay off Clan territories, and are known more for their independence and friendliness
- Leader's Group
A herd of loner's names are after the leader's name. Ex: Fog's group
- Specialty
Survival
- Favored Terrain
none
- Prey
Everything
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