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Post by ꮯꮋꮻꮯꮻꮮꭺꭲꭼ • ꮯꭹꭺ🇳ꮖꭰꭼ on Jan 1, 2018 15:15:27 GMT -5
♛ CRYPTCLAN ♛
Waiting FOR THE CROWS TO COME HOME
Directory;
Post 1: Introduction & Rules (OOC & IC)
Post 2: Fighting Styles & Ranks
Post 3: Traditions, History & Lore
Post 4: YinClan & YangClan
Post 5: Territory & Landmarks, Weather News
Post 6: Herbs, Prey, Predators & Signals
Post 7: Clan Allegiances
Post 8: Roleplay News, Credits, Art, etc.
Post 9: Save
Post 10: Extra Save
“Beware of the movements of the shadows. Do you know what they hold? They hold the past. No, not all of them are pleasant. But each fragment of CryptClan’s history can be found in them. All of them true. Coated with nothing but honesty. How you ask? With the watchful Eyes of The Dark. I cannot and shall not tell you more than that. Those who are aware of us, hold power in the Clan.”-Merciless Spirit Who Haunts For Eternity, Past Emperor, YinClan
“How do you stay forever true to CryptClan’s legacy but still hold an unfair share of power? You don’t. Balance is what is important. Without balance, who would we know the difference of happiness and sorrow? Bad and good? We believe in the good of us all. There are bad parts to us, yes. But we choose which side we focus on. That is what counts.”-True Heart, Past Keeper of Jewels, YangClan
Introduction:
Each Clan should have a distinct power dominance, correct? If you believe so, you are wrong. We are not evil, nor are we angelic saviours to be worshipped. But perhaps that is what makes us strong and a Clan who can accept and thrive under uncertainty. Under the brink of agreement and rebellion. CryptClan has a paw in each world. Diverse, fearless and expecting the unexpected. We are a Clan who believes, and will always stubbornly cling to our Code of Conduct, the laws that protect the rights of our Clan members. And the connector that allows the incompatible to cooperate.
Rules & Regulations:
1. Be active! Don't join and then never RP on here. It is annoying because I've put all my effort into making this Clan but you don't make an effort to stay active when you join. You must be able to RP each character that you have made at least two times a week. And if you do not do this without a reason of your absence, your character will be deleted. Once all your characters are gone, you'll naturally be deleted from this RP.
2. Do NOT, I repeat, DO NOT make an absolutely flawless character without any depth whatsoever. Cats don't have rainbow pelts and float on pink clouds all day long. Keep it REALISTIC. Your cat should have a minimum of three flaws mentioned in your joining form. Your cat cannot be invincible either and survive an avalanche of rock underground without a scratch.
3. Don't spotlight your characters. That just takes away the fun experience of RP. I don't want to see "the most beautiful she-cat in the Clan" written on your joining form. Yes, you could say that your cat is pretty and a flirt, but not "the most beautiful." You can't win every fight.
4. Do not kill off any cats that belong to different people without their approval. And I will be asking them personally before anybody gets killed. Also, don't make two cats that belong to different people mates, relatives or like each other (one-sided crushes are oaky, though) without asking the owner of the other cat.
5. No swearing, cursing/cussing at ANYTIME. I will not accept behaviour like that for reasons of personal comfort of both me and other RPers. Cat swears are the only exception. (e.g "Mouse dung!")
6. Cats have to die sometime. Whether it be natural causes or accidents. So, don't make your cat like two hundred moons old.
7. No detailed kitting scenes in RP. Just a short paragraph of how pain is taking over a she-cat's body and how the Keeper of Scarred Souls comes hobbling in. (Learn more about healing ways in CryptClan in later textboxes).
8. Respect your fellow RPers. Don't bully them outside of RP. Even unintentionally. If you won't say it to somebody's face in school, don't say it here. Words can hurt, joke or not.
9. Before creating a plot or prophecy in Role Play, please ask me first. If I think it is a suitable plot, I will approve of it. If not, please do not get upset.
10. Stay fairly literate in RP! No one sentence replies please. I would like a minimum of four sentences per post for each character. (Keep in mind that a paragraph is about five to seven sentences, therefore I cannot see there is any reason to complain about this rule.)
11. Follow the forum rules too. Ghost rules apply as well.
Last but not least...have fun! If there is anything you want me to add to this RP that would improve your experience, please feel free to talk to me about your suggestion.
Code of Conduct :
⚝ No cat shall be judged based upon appearance, sexuality or purely personal reasons in the eyes of the law.
⚝ Prey will be given to the elderly and the young first. Failure to comply means the temporary stripping of one's rank for an arbitrary amount of time.
⚝ Denouncing one's own rank is a permanent gesture and must therefore be treated as such.
⚝ Harming another cat in a mental or physical manner will result in immediate arrest, punishment will be bestowed upon the perpetrators by the Emperor and Empress. Punishment can vary from a permanent stripping of rank, banishment or death.
⚝ Killing /injuring a crow that belongs to a cat or is a member of the Three Divine Species gifted to CryptClan by YinClan and YangClan will result in punishment given by the owner of the dead/injured crow, or the Keeper of Crows (if the crow was not a pet).
⚝ Unlawful contact made with foreign groups of cats, no matter the intent, will be severed immediately when such schemes have been brought to light. The CryptClan cat(s) who made contact will be questioned and detained until a fate that justifies their actions is found. No outside contact from friends or family is allowed during this period of time.
⚝ Questioning orders given to you by a higher-up is considered disrespectful, acting deliberately in a rebellious manner will disgrace your family and land you a private audience with the Emperor and Empress. Behavioural corrections must be made as soon as possible, or the cat in question cannot hope to pursue a desired career.
⚝ Stealing jewels from the CryptClan mines will get you an audience with the Emperor or Empress, alongside the Keeper of Jewels. They will judge you and provide adequate punishment. Repeated thievery is usually dealt with by permanent stripping of rank. However, on rare occasion, exile has been used if the heist has caused great damage to CryptClan's wellbeing. |
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Post by ꮯꮋꮻꮯꮻꮮꭺꭲꭼ • ꮯꭹꭺ🇳ꮖꭰꭼ on Jan 1, 2018 15:16:27 GMT -5
Fighting Styles :
CryptClan, is unlike many Clans in many ways. It is a mining Clan. This means some cats are trained on how to dig out jade and other precious jewels alike. Mining has influenced CryptClan in religion, culture, how their Clan runs and peculiarly, fighting. This Clan has adapted simple, everyday, classic battle moves to include the jewel-made weapons to their Cats’ advantage. However, there were lots of different types of common styles to this unique and adapted way of fighting. But most of these moves are only known to ancient CryptClan and therefore lost to history. And though a few popular strategies of combat survived to be passed on from generation to generation, almost no cats alive both physically and spiritually are sure of how many types of this unique fighting style there once was in CryptClan. Today, there are three major types of this adapted fighting. Including: Crow’s Omen, Death Duel and Shadow Illusion.
Shadow Illusion :
Perhaps one of the most brutal and cold-blooded styles of fighting. It mostly involves many aspects of an ambush. And in this case, a usually smooth kill of many victims. Cats of CryptClan believe all masters of Shadow Illusion go to YinClan. It is neither based on attack nor defense, meaning it would should not and would not be used much in full-on battle. However, it is still an extremely deadly way of combat. Usually performed by a squadron of elite fighters in the dead of night. This ambush uses the height of any surrounding trees in a dense forest, preferably. Often involving expertly and carefully aimed throws of poisoned jewels from the treetops.
Curiosity That Kills-Also known as “The Last Mystery” and “Right This Way” this trick is perhaps one of the most often used by the Illusionists in the whole history of CryptClan’s famous ambush stories told by the Senior Souls of the Clan. “Curiosity That Kills” is a strategy that involves a set of five to seven Illusionists with at least beyond novice level experience. Each Illusionist wears an extremely shiny piece of jewelry in which should catch the attention of an unsuspecting group of cats. The Illusionist must stay reasonably quiet and stealthy in the cover of the shadows. Whilst still able to lead the victims to the next Illusionist, deliberately waiting for their signal to start their part of the operation without any unanticipated moves of the targets. (Like a relay race, only you’re passing on targeted cats instead of batons.) The basic idea, is to lead all targeted victims to a cautiously chosen ‘killzone’ that all participating Illusionists have agreed upon. Once in the ‘killzone’ all Illusionists begin to emerge apart from the shadows, revealing themselves to the cats. However, when the victims have only realized what is happening all Illusionists have already began throwing sharpened stones with a poisonous poultice at their tips, made from Arrowgrass and Baneberry. The victims will be showered in these rocks until they are either dead or have passed out. If they are passed out, the Illusionists jump down from the trees and slit the targets’ throats while they’re still knocked out.
Silent Throw-The first move invented, that eventually was used as a base for alternate strategies and moves making up the Shadow Illusion fighting style. It is the easiest move, thus making it the first move a Illusionist To-be often learns. Basically involving throwing a sharp object at a vulnerable spot of the target. Which can include the eyes, exposed underbelly and the neck. The impact should at least make the target lose consciousness, if not kill the targeted cat(s). Only effective on a smaller amount of victims.
Attracted Ends-An unusual strategy in Shadow Illusion. For it does not include as much stealth as most Illusionists think it should. Therefore making this move one of the lesser-used ones and often only a last resort. It is clever, though. The assassination starts off by purposefully attracting the attention of the nearby victim. Timing is key, since when bringing trouble to you, you don’t know who that particular ringleader of the trouble is. In order to bring the victims to you, there must be a fake raid in the camp of the targets. Duelists (cats who practice Death Duel) and Crow Charmers (cats who fight with Crow’s Omen) will attack to purposely provoke a battle. However, the Duelists and Charmers will retreat before any major casualties happen. After this attack, CryptClan cats will purposely send hunting parties and patrols onto the land of the victims. (Followed by Illusionists to insure as much safety as possible.) Though only enough for the victims to discover the scent. Finally, when the victims decide to strike back they will discover that CryptClan is ready for them. (Several ambushes of Illusionists will await in the high mountain tops, waiting drop down heavy boulders.) (Duelists would mainly be placed outside camp in a defensive formation and Crow Charmers would be waiting to fight off anyone remaining after the ambushes on the frontlines).
Death Duel :
Perhaps the oldest of the three types of fighting still around in CryptClan today. It was first invented by ambitious and somewhat bloodthirsty daughter of Snow Spiral, who was the original creator of CryptClan. Silver Sleet was her name. And she made sure to credit herself for every little 'contribution' she made. Even if it was something as simple as curving a black dot of the Yin Yang symbol. Or, at least so she claimed it was and insisted that it be put in the Treasury for display. Silver Sleet was a strong YinClan believer, even if she knew that balance was one of CryptClan's laws. And it was in her reign that dominance began to show in the slightest form in CryptClan. Death Duel was originally a fight to the death for Silver Sleet's entertainment. Their weapon of choice would be a jewel-made club in various sizes that could slip onto one's tail. However, once Imprinted Stone took over CryptClan after Silver Sleet's death, the new Empress changed Death Duel's laws in the symbolism of a new and peaceful reign under her command.
Formation of Balance-A classic favourite of the Duelists in CryptClan. It is an effective formation in the heat of battle. It's main use if for defense, though one can use it for attack if there are slight modifications. This formation consists of a large horseshoe shape of Duelists on the outside, smashing the enemies with the jewel clubs on their tails. they will remain in place, fighting until their strength is almost gone. There will be four more walls of fresh Duelists, waiting to take the pace of a dead one or one too injured or tired to fight at the moment. Slipping in between the Duelists like shadows are the Illusionists checking on their Clan mates, slitting the throats of distracted enemy cats and protecting each the master of Crow's Omen, Death Duel and Shadow Illusion who are directing their cats in the battle. Other Illusionists are also placed on higher ground, above the formation of fighting cats, dropping their poisoned stones on enemy heads. Along with the Illusionists are the Crow Charmers, directing their crows, who are soaring above the enemy cats and dropping down weapons to struggling CryptClan cats, supplies of medicine to the healing team at the centre of the formation with the Keeper of Scarred Souls and even the poisoned stones used by Illusionists on top of enemy heads. At the wall between the sick, injured, kits and some nursing mothers are the healthy Senior Souls and older mothers who can fight and whose kits are old enough to be left alone. They stand guard in case any enemy cats have snuck in between the defenses. Finally, at the centre is the healing team with the Keeper of Scarred Souls and the ones too weak to fight. The healing team will try its best to make the weak cats comfortable with herbal remedies dropped by the crows before the Keeper of Scarred Souls come to heal them.
The Whip and Kick-The most basic move in Death Duel, it starts by charging madly at the opponent then turning sharply at the last minute. This will either surprise the enemy or convince them that the Dueler changed their mind and that they now have the upperhand. While they mull over this, Duelers will hit the distracted enemy with their jewel club, followed closely by a kick with their dominant hind leg at the weakest exposed area.
The Stampeding Circle-A tiring looking formation, for it is only used as a last resort. It consist of the Crow Charmers directing their crows to drop the jewel arrows and land attacks on top of the enemies. The Shadow Illusion cats will also be doing this, both with the supervision of their Masters. While this is going on, the Duelists will be stampeding protectively around the injured, weak, elderly, disabled and young. To keep this circle going, the Duelists take shifts on running in the stampede, with the resting Duelists on the inner part of the circle, standing on guard in case any unwanted cats break through the circle of defense. If too much hope has been lost in the battle, then all the cats able to move will participate in the running of The Stampeding Circle to protect their clan from harm. (NOTE: This formation can accommodate retreats from battle as well. If cats need to flee, the slightly stronger warriors will circulate around the injured/weak, while the cats inside the protective barrier run as well. This way, The Stampeding Circle moves away from any danger).
Crow's Omen
Stuff goes here.
Ranks
Emperor and Empress-These cats are the leader figures of the Clan. Naturally, they are mates and cannot be anything else. Their first-born almost always succeeds a title of power. (Unless they refuse to rule or are dead, in which this case, the second-born will rule and if not, the third-born and so on.) The other cat who also rises to power is appointed by the heir or heiress. If one of the pair of rulers were to die, the remaining cat holding this title will appoint a new Emperor or Empress. If all their kits were dead (of the Emperor and Empress), the brothers or sisters of the cat who had been the carrier of the royal bloodline will be the second option. Starting with the eldest sibling alive of the dead ruler to the youngest. If there are no suitable siblings among them (too old, they do not wish to rule), the third option after this is the family of the cat with non-royal bloodline. The eldest sibling of this cat will be first-pick successor, second eldest second-pick successor, so on. And if after all this CryptClan still has no successor, it will be put to vote of the CryptClan cats who should be the cat to create a new royal bloodline. The candidate can be any cat as long as he or she was not one of the options of the first three choices. If there is a draw, then the Trial of the Abandoned Mine must be used. Only one cat comes out alive of the seemingly endless tunnels. And the cat who does, will be the Emperor or Empress along with the partner of their choice. The Emperor and Empress are responsible for organizing the Clan about daily activities. Such as sending out patrols to each border of the other Clans to check and refresh the scent. The patrols will also the check on the traps set by the last patrol to see if anything was caught. If there was fresh-kill caught, the patrolling cats would drag out the prey and reset the trap at another nearby location. If there wasn't, the cat leading the patrol would decide whether or not to leave the trap or relocate it. The patrol would return to camp if there was too much prey to carry or they are done their territory scout. They will then report to the Emperor and Empress about their findings and the relocation of the traps they set as well as how their luck with prey has been. The Emperor and Empress will then decide what to do with the information. For example, if they cats reported poor luck with prey, the Emperor and Empress would send out patrols just to check the traps farther out in the territory and perhaps even to hunt a bit. If the cats reported enemy scent, the Emperor and Empress would send patrols in slightly larger numbers and so on. They are also responsible of holding regular court meetings with their possible heirs/heiresses, the Fighting Masters, Keepers with the Keeper To-bes, Senior Souls and respected Illusionists, Duelists and Crow Charmers every week. Together they make decisions on how to better fortify against an enemy attack, discuss justice, punishment, how prey has been running, make battle plans on enemy movement and check in on the latest news of the Clan. Emperors and Empresses must know how to fight with all three types of fighting.
Keepers-The Keepers are three cats who have the most spiritual bond with YinClan and YangClan. They are known as the Keeper of Jewels, Keeper of Crows and Keeper of Scarred Souls. The Keeper of Jewels is responsible for the Clan's Treasury. They organize it daily when new carvings from the cats of CryptClan arrive, relieve the designated Gem Guards from duty and they themselves are the best carver in the Clan. They are also responsible for teaching To-bes carving skills, as CryptClan believes it is in every cat to carve out their feelings when they feel the need to. The Keeper of Jewels will accompany mothers, fathers and the kits who are choosing their Chosen Jewel to the choosing ceremony. The Keeper of Jewels will read the signs or omens in the jewels the kits have chosen. The Keeper of Crows is said to be born with a unique ability to speak to the crows. However, no one but the Keeper of Crows knows if this is true or not. And the Keeper of Crows should not share the knowledge with anyone but their To-be. They are in some ways the healer for the crows. So, all the cats of CryptClan bring in their sick or injured companions to be cured. Again, no one is sure what is in the mysterious mixture the Keeper of Crows gives to the sick crows, but the cats respect the Keeper too much to ask. The Crow Charmers are usually the closest with this Keeper, as they share the love of the CryptClan emblem and companion of choice. Some cats believe the Keeper will give away a little of his or her secrets to the Crow Charmers. But it is true that before becoming full-fledged Crow Charmers, Crow Charmer To-bes will spend a period of time with this Keeper. The Keeper of Crows also accompanies the kits who are ready to choose their first crow companion. The Keeper of Scarred Souls is perhaps the Keeper wrapped in most mystery of all. For this Keeper, unlike the other Keepers, will never have a To-be to train. It is true that the Keeper of Scarred Souls has healing powers, though. At the touch of this Keeper, all physical wounds on a cat will heal. (It does not work on other animals, since then the Keeper would not be able to paticipate in the Great Hunt and other activities.) However, the life challenge of this Keeper is to heal spiritual wounds. They must be able to connect with half-crazed cats and heal their torn spirit. No one is sure how the Keeper of Scarred Souls manages to do this or if they will eventually learn at all. But there is a price to pay for the healing powers. In most cases, kits who are destined to be the Keeper of Scarred Souls have very poor eyesight, if not completely blind. Some are deaf as well. According to legends, this is called the Eyes and/or Ears of Balance. For they must be able to see a world beyond what normal cats see, seeking the guidance of YinClan and YangClan as mentors. All Keepers cannot haves mates, since it would tip the balance of their responsibilities.
Master of Shadow Illusion-This cat is chosen by the former Shadow Illusion Master among the Illusionists. There is no other way to become a Master of Fighting, as the CryptClan cats believe mastery of combat must be done through tough training. The ambition to become the best fighter thyself can be must remain uncontaminated of ignorance and competition. Which is why the next Master of each style of fighting will be a secret until the very last moments of the former one. And Shadow Illusion is no exception to this rule. The Master is the leader of the Illusionists, directing his or her cats through the heat of war. They are often ones who have a more solitary personality (preferring to stick to themselves or their fellow Illusionists) and tend react in a calmer manner than the other Masters. They are quiet, though not because they are shy nor because they do not have much to say. But because they are deep thinkers, meaning they're advice is always worth hearing.
Master of Death Duel-Usually a strong cat who mostly relies on slashing or clawing techniques in battle. They act as the commander of the Duelists and will lead their fellow warriors into combat with precise expertise that most Duelists find comforting. This cat is often seen as one with unshakable courage, not being one to show weakness in front of other cats. Including close friends. Despite this, they are usually social cats who love bonding with not only Duelists but other cats as well. They work best with a team. Seeing fellow fighters like a brother or sister they need to protect.
Master of Crow's Omen-Giving off a clever and adaptable aura, this is a cat who's got brains that could challenge the Shadow Illusion Master. However, they are still quite different from the others. For instance, this cat tends to have sort of a dry humour, being very sardonically sarcastic. But nonetheless, is still caring. You could probably spend an entire day trying to figure out what they were thinking through facial expressions and still don't have a clue. They don't show very much emotion through words or expressions, but you'll know this cat cares about you when you're in peril. Very reliable.
Illusionists-Cats who are equipped to fighting with Shadow Illusion. They obey the commands of their Master. However, their loyalty is always first to the Emperor and Empress. Their personalities tend to lean towards the more thoughtful and witty side. Stealth and precision is an valuable asset to have as a Illusionist. If your aim is off, you could pay with the life of a Clan mate.
Duelists-Are burly and considered large in size. Their field of fighting is more defensive than attack. Making most of these cats have patience and undying loyalty towards all members of their Clan. For their purpose is not to fight to win, but to fight to protect. They can seem a gentle giants, willing to put their life on the line for CryptClan. Very sacrificing and kind, can be the most sensitive cats about death. Friends or not.
Crow Charmers-Like their title says, these cat can be quite the charmer. Whether it's with other cats or the crows. They are ones who mostly fight on the frontlines of attack. Surprisingly, their size ranges from medium to small. However, it would be a fatal error to underestimate them. It is because of their size and many moons of hard training do they have one vital advantage: speed. Add that to the shiny jewel accessories Charmers wear, they're blows come in a blinding bundle of lightning ferocity. (They wear jewels to blind the attackers for a split second when the sunlight hits the jewels, so they can turn the tide of the fight.)
Weapon Smiths-Similar to the role of the Keeper of Jewels, these cats are well-trained in working with stones and gems. But the difference comes in what they carve. Instead of beautiful treasures, they carve weapons useful in battle for the Illusionists, Duelists and Crow Charmers. However, each Weapon Smith is specialized in a specific type of fighting tools. Some make the accessories Charmers wear, others carve out their hearts and experiences of battle in the clubs worn by the tails of Duelists. Smiths can also be specialized in armour and trap making, etc. However, each who is a Smith tend to carve things used in the three types of fighting. This often needs one's own experience in that fighting style, thus Weapon Smiths often end up learning Death Duel, Shadow Illusion or Crow's Omen themselves. They maintain a strong relationship with the Miners, as they are the suppliers of their material. Weapon Smiths are quite antisocial creatures, rarely going out of their fortress unless summoned by the Emperor and Empress or if the Clan is in grave danger.
Miners-Considered one of the most important cats in the Clan. For they are willing to spend countless hours in the dark, searching for jewels and gemstones at even the expense of their lives sometimes. They develop a one-of-a-kind type of bond with their crow companions, relying on the crows as a scout in the mines. If the Miners were to get lost, they'd sent out their crows to look for the entrance. As the crow has an eye for light and shiny objects. Which brings us to the second way crows are used in the mines. They'll be asked regularly to search for diamonds. emeralds, rubies, etc. Since the crows have a liking towards brightness, it is usually hard for a miner's crows to adjust to its surroundings at first. The dark is a unnatural type, often sending chills up the spines of cats who aren't used to entering the mines on a daily basis. Even Miner To-bes are a little timid in the beginning. However, with many bonding and training sessions guided by the expert Miners, crow and cat will soon learn to give each other an absolute trust. They learn to brave the darkness together.
Senior Souls-Often referred to as retired cats or the elderly. Though most of them would not be pleased if you say this in their faces. In their mindset, they will always give a hundred percent in order to serve their Clan and will still be able to do it just as well as youngsters. This is arguably true, but the Senior Souls give the Clan a different kind of benefit. Instead of patrolling and checking traps, these cats raise spirits by telling tales, crave many beautiful sculptures of their life experiences and stories and even take part in the many council meetings to discuss battle plans or how to deal with a recent famine. Their voices and say in things are extremely valued in the Clan and may sometimes even change the orders of the Emperor and Empress. They are the old timers, meaning they have reached the maximum number of moons in their career of the Clan and are thus rich in advice to give to the youthful. Many of them refuse to believe they are too cold and fragile to be out and about in the Clan territory with a patrol, often pestering the rulers about it. Sometimes, the Emperor and Empress allow these oldies to have a taste of their prime years once again. But those they allow to do this are always healthy and strong.
Gem Guards/Patrollers-Straightly speaking, this doesn't really qualify as a job in the Clan. However, this could be viewed as a task. And an important task to say the least. These tasks are normally rotated around the cats, to exemplify two Illusionists, Duelists and Crow Charmers will guard the Clan's vast Treasury for a week under the hawk-like eyes of the Keeper of Jewels. Then, the Emperor and Empress will pick new sets of Guards to do this task. The same goes for the Patrolling task. There are rare occasions though, where a cat is a permanent Patroller/Gem Guard. This can happen if a cat is too injured to perform their regular chores of their former rank. And though other non-scarring wounds can cause a cat to do these tasks for more than a week, (e.g Miner has lungs that need to rest for awhile away from the dust) this could generally be called a large responsibility all cats share. Either or both tasks can also be used as an efficient punishment for misbehaving To-bes and such.
To-bes, Heirs and Heiresses-Young cats still learning the ways of CryptClan. Their Chosen Jewel picked at birth before their eyes open in a Cycle Ground (which is picked by their parents) decides their role in the Clan. However, it often becomes much more complicated for heiresses and heirs of the Emperor or Empress title from there compared to normal To-bes. All the children of the Emperor and Empress could be possible first-option heirs and heiresses. However, the one who normally succeeds in the title of power if the eldest of the children. They're normally called the main heir/heiress while the other kits are just called possible heirs and heiresses. And even though they could all potentially succeed power, all cats must choose their Chosen Jewel, including the children of the Emperor and Empress. This is so that if the main heir or heiress doesn't want the power, they still have a role in the Clan. The other possible heirs need to choose their jewels more than the main heir/heiress does, for if the main heir does want the power and has made it successfully through to adulthood they still need a role in the Clan.
Nursing or Expecting Mothers-She-cats either expecting kits of taking care of them, they will be granted a six moons break.
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Post by ꮯꮋꮻꮯꮻꮮꭺꭲꭼ • ꮯꭹꭺ🇳ꮖꭰꭼ on Jan 1, 2018 15:16:48 GMT -5
Traditions
Decision of Fate-Quite a dramatic name to be honest with you. However, a dramatic thing this is in CryptClan. For it will decide what path each cat is to take. This is more of a solemn and quiet occasion rather than a extravagant celebration. Only parents, the kits and the Keeper of Jewels will attend. After each kit chooses a specific gemstone, the Keeper of Jewels will step forward and make a remark about the Chosen Jewel of the kit as well sometimes as speak of the omens within the veins of the sparkling stone. However, not all the jewels have a hidden or deep meaning behind them. These events are to be done in a Cycle Ground. The Cycle Ground can be chosen by the parents of the kits attending the occasion, some believe specific Cycle Grounds can make kits choose a certain type of jewel to gain the ranks parents wish for their children. However, it is forbidden to speak of such things, especially when the Keeper of Jewels is around. For CryptClan's code says the gossip will disturb ultimate balance. The same kits who chose their jewels in a Cycle Ground when they were no more than a two days old will be buried in the Cycle Ground when they have passed, according to CryptClan law. The jewels in the ceremony will be rough and unpolished, as the To-be and/or heir/heiress will have to do to polish their Chosen Jewel him or herself in the meaning that they have accomplished and conquered all the challenges within the role. There are gemstones that can be added after each kit's Chosen Jewel, as the jewels of each cat are meant to tell their life stories and experiences. This ceremony is relatively quiet, being done in silence until the Keeper of Jewels makes his or her comment.
Trial of The Abandoned Mine-This mysterious and unnerving trial is surrounded by a mystic awe of both terror and curiosity. It is used only on two types of rare occasions. Number one is when a possible heir born to the Emperor and Empress wants to challenge the birthright of the main heir or heiress for the title of power. Then, the challenger and main heir will go through the mine in which the trial is held. An abandoned diamond mine without a name. (Which may be why there are no diamonds in the ranking system or being mined.) CryptClan slang calls this: 'Mine of Angry Spirits', as speculations include that the cats who were wronged in life and thus refused to join their ancestors haunt this mine. Only one cat makes it through this trial and after doing so, will start to have amnesia regarding what happened in the mine. Occasion number two is when there is a draw in the process of choosing a new Emperor/Empress when the royal family has no available or suitable heirs or heiresses. Then, the candidates who had the draw must go through with the deadly trial whether they what the title of power or not. The surviving candidate will become the one who creates a new royal bloodline. Before the Trial, all cats see them off at the Abandoned Mine entrance. This is where good-byes and good lucks take place. After the cats of CryptClan or done with this, all three Keepers step forward and give all the cats undergoing the Trial the blessing of YinClan and YangClan. They say these words:
"If you are the right one, your ancestors will lift you out of the grasp of dismay. In your darkest hours in this mine, trust in Yin and Yang. Trust in balance. For balance is the creator of this world, the heavens above and is the essence of your existence. Remember, these moments of your life will be soon wiped away without a trace in a rising tide of oblivion. Our ancestors are not cruel. They are merely enforcing a fate given to you by birth. You wear one fate in the clutches of your Chosen Jewel that hangs around your neck. And the other, is lost in a tangle of infinite possibilities. And so, combine them together. You walk a path of infinite possibilities through a mask of oblivion. A curse and blessing put together. Just like these very minutes of your life. And, if you are not the right one, may you leave with acceptance."
After this little prayer, the cats undergoing the Trial will make their departure at twilight in the morning (the time between dawn and sunrise) and the cat who makes it through the Trial alive will exit the Mine at precisely twilight in the evening. (The time between sunset and dusk.) Most cats believe the time is this because it would be the times of the day that dark and light are combined.
Companion of Choice-This ceremony is the second one a kit usually experiences. It should be done before the kit is given a mentor and becomes a To-be. However, most kits perform this little ritual at around five moons of age. This ceremony, is when a kit chooses their first crows It should be only done with the Keeper of Crows (or sometimes the Keeper of Crows' To-be if they allow it) and no one else, as it will be fairly private and the first choice given complete power to the kits. Sort of like their first act of independence in the symbol that they are growing up and no longer kits, but instead young and energetic cats ready to serve their Clan. Each kit must face this alone and must NOT be influenced in any way on their choice, as CryptClan law states that such an act could be punished by a stripping of one's current rank and be made a Gem Guard/Patroller forever under the watchful eyes of their Clanmates. In fact, to enforce this law even further, siblings of the same litter must go one at a time, each awaiting their assigned turn and each choosing in a different place. Parents are naturally not allowed to attend or ask too much information regarding each kit's choice, nor criticize them about it. This ceremony must be done in utter silence, for once one reaches the ground that the choosing should take place, not even the Keeper of Crows will be an exception to this rule or the ones stated above.
The Crowning of a New Emperor/Empress (Or Both)-A very bittersweet moment, as you would imagine. Since, it would often be the same day the former Emperor/Empress/Emperor and Empress retired or died. Therefore, it is a fairly solemn ceremony normally held after the retiring/burial ritual. This ceremony should be completed in the presence of all the CryptClan spirits, meaning the ceremony is held at the Peace Pond. (See later posts on Territory and Landmarks.) All three Keepers would speak the following poem written by Snow Spiral on one of her famous carvings; A Message to Future Rulers (see later posts on History) to the successor(s):
“You (both) have succeeded,
Your predecessor(s) held the voice(s) of tomorrow,
Whilst this is true, now your voice(s) is/are needed,
So please, grieve, just don’t drown in the sorrow.
To you (both) we bestow the pendant(s) of trust,
The shimmering and elegant jade,
With this title of pride, do what you (both) must,
Yield this jewel like what it’s meant to be used for; a blade.
May CryptClan prosper under your (shared) power,
May the Clan’s blooming feel no bounds,
Like a sunflower,
Splashed with a light that makes its daily rounds.
The future lies unknown,
Though, it is something that can be changed in your paws,
So fly the paths that must be flown,
And when the time is ripe, don’t be afraid to show your claws.”
Afterwards, the future Emperor/Empress/the new pair of rulers will enter the realm of their ancestors holding residence in YinClan and YangClan.
Receiving of Nine Lives-Newly crowned monarchs must make contact with their spirit ancestors in YinClan and YangClan via the Peace Pond to receive their nine lives. This is a timely process, as YinClan cats can only be contacted at night and YangClan cats in the daytime. This is the final step to being a recognized leader. For, without their nine lives, no cat is an official leader within the Clan.
Lore
In CryptClan, a cat's lifetime is represented with jewels. Different jewels naturally have different meanings, but there are jewels that are symbols of status. Below is a guide to what each cat may wear, according to their rank within the community. Beside each listed jewel is also an indication on whether or not they are present in the Decision of Fate or not.
Jade-Emperor and Empress (Not present in the ceremony, as it is more of a birthright.)
Ivory-Miners (Will always be present.)
Gold-Keeper of Jewels (Will only be present if the current Keeper of Jewels is looking for To-be.)
Silver-Crow Charmers (Always present.)
Smoky Quartz-Keeper of Crows (Only present if the Current Keeper of Crows is looking for a To-be.)
Chalcedony-Duelists (Always present.)
Agate-Weapon Smiths (Always present.)
Bloodstone-Keeper of Scarred Souls (Only present if the Keeper of Scarred Souls is deceased.)
Jelly Opal-Illusionists (Always present.)
Jasper-Senior Souls (A jewel to be added later on.)
Ruby-Master of Crow's Omen (Will never be present, as the successor has to be decided by the former Master of Crow's Omen and no other way. Also a jewel to be added later on.)
Sapphire-Master of Shadow Illusion (Will never be present, as the successor has to be decided by the former Master of Shadow Illusion and no other way. Also a jewel to be added later on.)
Emerald-Master of Death Duel (Will never be present, as the successor has to be decided by the former one and no other way. Also a jewel to be added later on.)
Amethyst-Mothers (A type of jewel to be added later on.)
The Three Divine Species of crows make up the majority of the crow population in CryptClan. These crows were said to have been bestowed upon the Clan as a gift from the Spirits in YinClan and YangClan. Below is a list of the crows with description regarding abilities and uses.
Spinner Crows
Physical Description: Streamlined, slim/slender, thin and light bodies; smaller than the average crow, with an extra sharp strong beak to make painful jabs at targets, bigger-than-normal wings for great speed, though still proportionate to the slightly larger head. Usually pale in colour to blend into their sky surroundings, feathers range from smooth milky gray (semi-common), steel gray, gray-white, brown-gray (rare), ivory-gray, silver-gray (very rare) to blue-gray (most common). Most are a solid colour.
Unique Abilities: Stunning speed and accuracy in battle; often called 'Fighter Crows' for this reason, deliver powerful yet quick blows, often extremely intelligent as a result of relying on cunning instead of raw flat-out strength.
True to their name, Spinner Crows are quite the hassle to catch if they get naughty or are commanded by their cat companion to do what they do best: spinning, spiraling and just plain making it hard and frustrating for one to catch. This talent as you would imagine, is very useful in battle. They are often called or nicknamed, 'Fighter Crows' for this reason. They're more of a favoured breed of the Crow Charmers, as Crow's Omen includes a lot of teamwork between cat and crow. Crow Charmers and Spinner Crows also share another element in common: speed. They both have rather slim and slender frames, not being one who rely on flat-out raw strength of the muscles. Instead, they use their biggest muscle, their brain. Every move is precisely calculated with stunning accuracy, stunning and deadly to phrase it better. Spinner Crows tend to have beaks twice as sharp and hard as other crows. They use this sharp beak of theirs by jabbing/pecking constantly at prey or enemy cats in combat. On signal, they can dive at a dizzying and dazzling rate of around 100 km/hour. In which, they start with a quick twist of their wings forward to gain momentum. After this, sort of let their weight tilt their bodies forward so that their creating a 50 degree angle with their bodies. They twist their wings again, but this time sideways so their body is rotated to the side, then they begin their spiral. Twisting and turning the wings all they can before they reach their target. Once it's only a matter of second before hitting the ground, the crows jab down their beak at the target and twist again. Like, a drill into the heads of the target. The drill position will soon to turned into yet another twist, and the Spinner Crows' body will turn sideways once more. But before lifting off, they rake away flesh of their victim with their extended claws.
Light Seeker Crows
Physical Description: Long, elegant necks with a delicate curve as a result of constantly looking down upon scenery when flying, large eyes with thick lashes and two eyelids (good for blocking/filtering light) to spot faraway objects, small beak to make room for the eyes, has a peculiarly shaped white star on forehead (most think it is connected to their radar-like sense that can detect light.) They have shinier feathers than most crows, which is most useful in the darkness of the mines, but is also used to determine health among them. During mating seasons, females are attracted to the male with the most glossy feathers. Feather colours range from russet-brown (semi-common), red-brown (most common), dark ginger, mud brown (uncommon), plywood brown, bark brown to mahogany brown. Usually has a combination of a dull colour and bright colour on feathers.
Unique Abilities: Strong eyesight, can withstand bright light of all sorts and heat (bounced off of snow, direct sunlight, etc.), radar-like sense that detects sources of light, great direction sense, excellent trackers from birth.
Like their name suggests, these crows seek the light, having almost too much fondness for it. Which, as you would guess, makes them the more favourable breed of crow for the common Miner. These crows are often excellent trackers by instinct, for they have eyes sharper than that of a eagle's. They also have an almost radar-like sense of where light can be found, which is very useful when a Miner is trapped or lost in total darkness with no one to count on but their faithful Seeker Crow. (As they are often called.) Their gifts are also used to find gemstones and jewels in the mines, for the Miners work twice as fast at this rate. No, not all the hunts are successful (and the Seeker Crows and their cat companions often understand each other well enough to have a signal that says: "mission failed"), but the average Seeker Crow can bag at least one jewel every three to four times on command. The Seeker Crows however, are not always working in the best conditions. They want light, but instead they are performing tasks in a seemingly endless nightscape. Because of this, Seeker Crows just beginning to enter the mines on a daily basis are often skittish and nervous. But it is possible for them to adjust in time, with patience and kindness Miner and crow create a bond that burns through those fears.
Carrier Crows
Physical Description: Burly-figured, well-muscled bodies to carry heavy objects in flight, rough-skinned extraordinarily large, long and curved claws to place secure grip on weapons and coded messages, bones are less hollow than the average crow as a result of its strength; limiting the maximum level of height, thus they can fly lower than the other crows. Feather colours range from midnight black with tints of rainbow colours in the sun (most common), stormy gray, cement gray, stone gray, wispy brown-black (semi-common), very dark brown with highlights of black (uncommon), ash gray with lighter shades of cinder on wings/wingtips, face, around the eyes and a few hints of off-white.
Unique Abilities: Tough, stubborn attitude towards goals; will stop at nothing to reach them, unwavering stamina and strength for long journeys without rest, extremely loyal (a one-cat-companion-for-life kind of crow), deadly aim with sharpened stone weapons, can withstand harsh conditions with little water and food for long periods of time.
These names are getting very literal...but nonetheless, they make sense. And the Carrier Crow would be no exception. These crows do exactly what you're probably thinking of; they carry things. They're nicknamed the 'Bomber Crows' and 'Flying Patrollers' for this reason. They're naturally built for stamina and strength instead of speed, but a fast pace can be developed with regular training. As they say, "with practice comes perfection." If a patrol is in danger, they send this crow with a coded message of scratches on bark back to camp. For example, if a patrol encounters a ambush, they would find usable bark and carve out seven straight horizontal claw marks to indicate a battle is happening and they need reinforcements. More specific info can be added, like how many cats there are. A minor border skirmish would have one vertical scratch running through the first two horizontal scratches. A full-on battle/slaughter would have two vertical scratch running through all seven horizontal scratches. (CryptClan has also devised symbols for each landmark in their territory.) The ambushed cats would then send out the Carrier Crow with this message, for these crows are still twice as fast as the cats themselves, making them far more efficient messengers. A Carrier Crows' other job happens during battle. These crows carry with them sharpened stones with poisoned tips to drop on enemy cats. However, the risk is great when a cat throws this poisoned stone (lest they hit a Clanmate) and is therefore even greater when a crow does this task. Aim, strength and patience is critical when throwing the sharpened stone weapon like a bomb. Which makes these crows the ones who need to keep in tip-top shape the most, followed by the Spinner Crows. Up in the treetops, their cat companion (often a Illusionist) oversees their progress in the battle and shouts and/or signals commands to them.
Spotted Crows
Physical Description: Absolutely stunningly flawless appearances, having gorgeous, to-die-for and silky soft feathers ranging from a diverse amount of shades. Which include: pure, snowy white with splashes of a deep brown, black or (very rarely) both, misty blue-gray with eye-catching highlights of silver and a gray-black on the wingtips, a rich, creamy off-white/ivory accompanied with hints of light, light gray faded into an ombre style on the contour feathers and to top it all off with an extra creative flair, dazzling speckles of scarlet spiral in elegant patterns of zig zags. (Extremely rare, close to impossible. Therefore, I will only accept ONE Spotted crow with this appearance).
Unique Abilities: Unknown; as they are not a working type of crow.
Or, as most cats call it, the crow never meant to be. Originally, there was only three breeds of crows in CryptClan. These breeds are the ones listed above. All of them specialized in something that the Clan can benefit from. As it is, these three types of crows was one of the gifts bestowed upon CryptClan by the cats of YinClan and YangClan. However, there was no specific instruction regarding what the crows should be used for and how the cats would communicate with the crows. It was all basically chaos until firm rules were established (otherwise known as CryptClan's Code of Conduct). However, that was only after this breed of crows popped up. Due to the inbreeding of all three breeds of crows, it resulted in CryptClan creating an entirely new breed of crow. Some cats saw these cats as a mistake, a breed never meant to be. Others, thought that it was unwise to breed hybrids but thought that all crows should be treated equally. On the plus side, Spotted Crows were adaptable, having flexible personalities and a bit of abilities of all breeds of crows. This made them able to serve cats whose ranks differ. Today, Spotted Crows are commonly used for basic supplies and sometimes help during famine when it acts as bait for prey. (When cats of CryptClan are desperate enough to send patrols specifically to hunt). Its feathers are used to line nests (may be used as decoration or worn by some cats behind their ear, for there is no doubting that a Spotted Crow's feathers are pretty, only closely followed by a Seeker Crow's). Its eggs are sometimes eaten in famine too. (Some cats believe this is wrong and refuse to do so, even when desperate with hunger. As, it is the exact same as eating a crow. Which is against the Code). They're similar in use to chickens in the human world.
History
Founding Era: The Shadow Ages
Not long after CryptClan was created, a dark time struck. Cats died, wars were fought and in total, five generations were lost to bloodshed and misery. For, it was a time of constant chaos and fighting. Below is list of the notable historical figures that lived in this time period. Including, the founding cat herself.
Lost Light of Heaven: Founder of CryptClan
She was an orphaned kit that grew into something speical. At three moons of age, after struggling to survive on her own in a twoleg dump, she was taken in by a violent band of rogues. Those rogues were power-hungry and had no real order. They only followed the strong and left the weak to die. When they had ravaged what was left of the twoleg dump, the rogues moved onto nearby forests. That was when things started to turn around for the adolescent. Lost Light first felt the presence of a greater-being when she was around 1 year and a half old. By that time, she had already lost much of her rebellious attitude and had resigned herself to a life of shame as a servant. However, she made contact with Ancient Spirits of the Forest, who aided her in times of vulnerability. The Spirits were the ones who taught her of Yin and Yang. Of light and darkness. They taught her to appreciate balance and to see the strength that such harmony brought. Finally, at four years of age, Lost Light rebelled against the rogues. She rose up and defeated the ones who were corrupt and joined paws with the “balanced.” The Forest Spirits helped her, and in hindsight, they were the ones who turned the tide of the war. In the end, Lost Light succeeded, but at a great cost. With so much bloodshed, the spiritual balance of the once flourishing forest had been disrupted. And so, it was with a heavy heart that Lost Light left her beloved Spirit friends, who promised her that new friends were waiting to be made. Lost Light journeyed with her supporters at her side to a barren land, where no twolegs dared wander. It was then that they say the aurora borealis-the northern light. Believing that it was a message from the Spirits, Lost Light decided then and there to make it the home of CryptClan. The she-cat brought order and faith, introducing CryptClan’s Code of Conduct and YinClan and YangClan.
Silver Sleet that Graces Dawn: Bringer of the Shadow Ages
Who said that history was written completely by the good? This she-cat certainly was not, yet she has been accredited to being one of the most influential leaders of her time in the Founding Era. Silver Sleet was the daughter of Lost Light and she an absolute tyrant. Abusing her power from a young age, she changed many things her mother had put into place (including many laws from the original Code of Conduct) and was somebody who enjoyed the sight of blood. She introduced Death Duel for her personal entertainment, a brutal fighting style that was built upon the principles of slaughter.
Imprinted Stone from Timeless Stories: Brought forth the Ephemeral Peace
After her rebellion against Silver Sleet had succeeded, Imprinted Stone brought a peaceful reign that lasted until her death. In such time, CryptClan recovered from many heavy losses caused by Silver Sleet’s violent whims. However, the peace she brought to CryptClan was short-lived and died with her.
Snow Spiral: Revolutionized the Art of Carving
Creator of many poems (such as, the Poem of Succession for Future Rulers of CryptClan) and had a great artistic sense. She was wise beyond her years and produced many legendary works. (Including, Sister Sun & Mother Moon).
Merciless Spirit that Haunts for Eternity: Necromancer of the Shadow Ages
Merciless Spirit was the one who revived Silver Sleet’s legacy. Clan stories have built him to be quite the villain; it’s a common nursery tale and saying for mothers to threaten disobedient kits with. (“Eat your share of fresh-kill, or else Merciless Spirit is going to snatch you from your nest tonight!”) It is said the Merciless Spirit wasn't even normal at all, but a reincarnation of one of the vengeful cats from the band of rogues that had dispersed due to Lost Light’s rebellion. He brought darkness and war. And with it, death followed suite.
Black Rose of Deceiving Innocence: Mate of Merciless Spirit
Black Rose was the Empress of CryptClan in Merciless Spirit’s reign. She was said to have a heart as black as the Endless Night and to be even more cruel than her mate, having a sadistic fondness for torture and elaborate executions for those she deemed “traitors to the crown.”
Hazy Visions from Yonderland: Leader of the Damned
He was said to be a cat of incredible courage, wit and intellect. For, he was the first to defy the cruel reign of Merciless Spirit and live to see the next dawn. For many moons, he was the figurehead of the war waged against CryptClan’s corrupted monarchs. He was killed in battle, but his legacy lived on with Moonlit Meadow; his trustworthy advisor (and some say, his lover).
Moonlit Meadow: Huntress of the Heavens
Ah..yes, the Huntress of the Heavens. The one who ended it all. Specifically, the one who killed Merciless Spirit and Black Rose. Her prophecy was as follows:
“Born of steel
And iron will,
With a storm’s zeal
And a bite to kill.”
After the death of Hazy Visions from Yonderland, she led the rebellion to success in a fortnight. It was said that she suicided after her destiny was fulfilled, most likely unable to move on from the death of her comrade and beloved.
Modern Era: Coming of Peace
Once the Shadow Ages were at an end, CryptClan cats finally knew the meaning of peace, for they had lived without such a thing for so long. Peace brought forth many new creations. Cats finally had the time to settle down and appreciate works of art and spiritual connections.
True Heart: Sacred Astronomer
Born a day after the end of the Shadow Ages, she grew up to be someone as familiar with the night sky as it gets. She was the one who developed the Portal Theory (stating that the Moon was a portal to YinClan’s lands and the Sun was th portal to YangClan’s lands) and later proved it to be true when she discovered the Peace Pond. (The Peace Pond reflected the Sun and Moon, redirecting the portal’s energy so that it may be accessed by all cats who touch the reflection of the portals).
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Post by ꮯꮋꮻꮯꮻꮮꭺꭲꭼ • ꮯꭹꭺ🇳ꮖꭰꭼ on Jan 1, 2018 15:16:58 GMT -5
YinClan
Stuff goes here.YangClan
Stuff goes here. |
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Post by ꮯꮋꮻꮯꮻꮮꭺꭲꭼ • ꮯꭹꭺ🇳ꮖꭰꭼ on Jan 1, 2018 15:17:15 GMT -5
Post 5.
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Post by ꮯꮋꮻꮯꮻꮮꭺꭲꭼ • ꮯꭹꭺ🇳ꮖꭰꭼ on Jan 1, 2018 15:17:30 GMT -5
Post 6.
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Post by ꮯꮋꮻꮯꮻꮮꭺꭲꭼ • ꮯꭹꭺ🇳ꮖꭰꭼ on Jan 1, 2018 15:17:45 GMT -5
Post 7.
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Post by ꮯꮋꮻꮯꮻꮮꭺꭲꭼ • ꮯꭹꭺ🇳ꮖꭰꭼ on Jan 1, 2018 15:18:29 GMT -5
Post 8.
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Post by ꮯꮋꮻꮯꮻꮮꭺꭲꭼ • ꮯꭹꭺ🇳ꮖꭰꭼ on Jan 1, 2018 16:47:53 GMT -5
Save.
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Post by ꮯꮋꮻꮯꮻꮮꭺꭲꭼ • ꮯꭹꭺ🇳ꮖꭰꭼ on Jan 1, 2018 16:48:03 GMT -5
Extra save.
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DM me if u want