Non-binary
#F4B548
Name Colour
Dark Sun
Sage of the Stars
I'm devious, I'm devilish, I'm ever so deliciously evil
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Post by Dark Sun on Feb 27, 2022 7:27:45 GMT -5
ABOUT
Welcome to the WispClan and ShardClan Planning Page! This thread serves as a record for both current and past events that the Clans (and individual characters) have experienced, while also serving as a melting pot of ideas for future plots and subplots. There are numerous "bubbles" (pages) down below that I encourage you to check out, and if you have would like to propose a future plot or subplot, or join in on a current discussion, this forum is exactly what you're looking for!
Warning: Spoilers be ahead. Stay away from the general discussion if you don't want to be surprised ahead of time.
Descriptions for this thread's bubbles are provided below.
1) ABOUT: A brief summary on what this place is all about!
2) DIRECTORY: Check out this bubble for all the links to other relevant threads!
3) ROLEPLAY LORE: The lore for each individual Clan and the world around them.
4) THE CHALKBOARD - PLOTS: All upcoming / future plots and subplots are listed here, as well as all plot & subplot suggestions that are currently being considered.
5) PROPHECY: The current prophecy, either relevant to one Clan or to both, is presented here.
6) PAST INFORMATION: Archived information is kept in cold storage here, such as former plots, subplots and prophecies.
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Non-binary
#F4B548
Name Colour
Dark Sun
Sage of the Stars
I'm devious, I'm devilish, I'm ever so deliciously evil
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Post by Dark Sun on Mar 16, 2022 23:37:32 GMT -5
ROLEPLAY LORE
_________________________________________
– TWOLEGS & OUTSIDERS –
_________________________________________
1) The Clan territories are located many days travel away from any heavily active signs of Twoleg activity, therefore the existence of Twolegs and their kittypets and dog companions are currently not known to the typical WispClan or ShardClan cat. A shipwreck lies to the very Southwest of WispClan land, but only the Elder Circle is aware of its existence. There is also a campsite Northwest of ShardClan land and an abandoned fishing hut and docks to the North of the territories, but these structures are currently undiscovered. Other seldom visited or completely abandoned Twoleg nests dot the woods periodically, but are well beyond Clan boundaries.
TL;DR: No Twolegs, no kittypets, no domestic dogs
2) Rogues and loners are generally very few and far between, and usually live on their own or with their mate(s) and/or kits.
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Non-binary
#F4B548
Name Colour
Dark Sun
Sage of the Stars
I'm devious, I'm devilish, I'm ever so deliciously evil
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Post by Dark Sun on Mar 17, 2022 0:47:51 GMT -5
THE CHALKBOARD (PLOTS)CURRENT PLOT???FUTURE PLOTS (SPOILERS)Shh. Spoilers.
THEME 1: Over time, WispClan's younger generations evaluate and challenge the narrow minded, highly traditionalized way of life they've been raised in. This "plot" will span many, many seasons, both IRL and in-roleplay. It won't happen overnight, but their judgement of doing the right thing over being chained down by old ideas will have unprecedented consequences and will change their way of life forever.
THEME 2: Like a magma chamber slowly filling with molten rock, tensions between both Clans are slowly escalating, and soon there will be no turning back. In time, something will have to give - this volcano will erupt, and the damage that will be caused will be unprecedented. But with death, comes new life.
SUB-PLOT SUGGESTIONS
The following is a list of sub-plot suggestions for anyone to use if they're stuck! If you wish to use one of these subplots, contact Dark Sun or Dawnmist and we can figure something out!
1) A fox steals kit(s) from the camp 2) Kits go missing 3) A cat or kit goes missing 4) A murder mystery 5) Forbidden friendships and/or romances
More to be added later PROPHECY
[insert current prophecy here]
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Non-binary
#F4B548
Name Colour
Dark Sun
Sage of the Stars
I'm devious, I'm devilish, I'm ever so deliciously evil
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Post by Dark Sun on Apr 3, 2022 1:38:34 GMT -5
Oooh, I love the first idea immensely! We could definitely do that!
The second suggestion would work well for a prologue I think (i.e. the very first post on the WispClan RP page). The Elder Circle and the Mender could bare witness to the planks of wood drifting up on the beach, and they do their best to hide the evidence. They wouldn't want the rest of the Clan finding out about this strange anomaly.
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Non-binary
#F4B548
Name Colour
Dark Sun
Sage of the Stars
I'm devious, I'm devilish, I'm ever so deliciously evil
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Post by Dark Sun on Apr 3, 2022 5:20:23 GMT -5
Before this thread continues, I just want to make one thing clear to everybody participating. New ideas are always welcome and I and anividche genuinely consider every proposal thrown our way. We greatly appreciate the feedback and participation from you all. With that being said, if we reject or rework an idea that you sent to us, please don't take it personally! We must all be willing to share around here, but a great art piece needs direction, a steady hand to guide it. If we don't put an idea through, it's not because it's a poor idea; we just decided it didn't fit into the narrative of the story. That's not to say such an idea won't be explored in the future however! Nothing is set in stone; we'll have to see what happens.
Happy brainstorming! (:
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Non-binary
#F4B548
Name Colour
Dark Sun
Sage of the Stars
I'm devious, I'm devilish, I'm ever so deliciously evil
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Post by Dark Sun on Apr 3, 2022 5:38:10 GMT -5
In regards to the current vision for the Clans' relatively immediate future, here are the plans laid out on the table. If you have any suggestions, constructive criticism, or any questions, fire them my way!
1) Twoleg discoveries. Very slowly over time, WispClan cats (or perhaps certain individuals at first) will discover more evidence of the existence of Twolegs. It will begin with the "discovery" of the Shipwreck** to the West of the Spirit Tree. Eventually more remains will be discovered. The Elder Circle will do everything within their power to censor this information; once the existence of these creatures is undeniable however, they may attempt to influence the Clan by claiming they are "haunted" or "corrupted" places. Whether this will work (for a while) is undecided. Eventually, Twolegs themselves will be discovered. Perhaps they are seen at a health distance and only for a brief moment, or maybe they are encountered by travelling Clan cats through an entirely different subplot. Who knows?
Note: The nearest Twolegplace or barn/field is over a moon's walk away. Small Twoleg cabins and camping grounds are dotted throughout the region, but they are few and far between and most are empty and are in severe disrepair.
(**Ex. A WispClan Novice makes their way across Whisker Ridge and gets isolated due to the crumbling terrain. More Novices come to rescue them (against their superiors' wishes) and they discover the Twoleg Shipwreck. They make their way back and do not tell any cat what they had seen. The Elder Circle questions them however, and is unsatisfied with their answers. Later, the same Novices can attempt to explore the Shipwreck itself out of curiosity. Whether it's a one-time affair or something to commit to over many days on and off, they will get caught and interrogated by the Elder Circle, who demand the young cats to keep perfectly quiet on the matter, or face exile.
Through undetermined plot means, the rest of WispClan eventually becomes aware of the Shipwreck. (<----- Suggestions are needed here.)
Following this, cats could discover Twoleg debris, or a "living" Twoleg ship sailing in the distance, or an abandoned Twoleg nest or campground, etc. The Elder Circle will perhaps convince their Clan that such places are corrupted and are full of hateful spirits. Perhaps the exploration of one of these places and the discovery of a kind, selfless spirit will change their Clanmates' minds?
The discovery of Twolegs will come later.)
2) "The awakening". Eventually, WispClan will reach a pivotal moment in history. Questions will begin to arise, and some of those questions may at last be answered. Are Twolegs real? Is the history of WispClan we were told true, or is some of (of all of it) false? Do the Elders really speak the words of the Risen? Do the Risen have as much power as the Elder Circle claims? This will be a very gradual process and may span in between several other plots, and the consequences will in time shake the forest to its roots. Laws may change and not only will the minds of cats open up, but the entire world as well. While they will forever see their claimed land as home, they will no longer look at the rest of the world as being "tainted". Morals will trump tradition.
3) Rogue refugees. Rogues and loners are extremely rare in the region, and are generally never seen in any kind of organized fashion. This could change with the arrival of a group of rogue refugees coming from beyond the Forsaken Fields/Freedom's End forest. What do they want? Are they friend or foe? Will they settle in the region? (<----- Beyond Mountain's Grief?)
Unlike the other plots, this one isn't at all set in stone. As for when and if it will occur, that is also up in the air.
4) Rat invasion. Eventually rats will spill into WispClan territory, and the Clan will be very short on cures. ShardClan will refuse to help them, and the Elder Circle won't accept "tainted" herbs. Not all of WispClan will allow their Clanmates to die however. If they cannot negotiate for them and with their ancestors having long since outright banned the use of "outside herbs", they're going to have to take it. The antidotes however lie deep within ShardClan territory...
5) The Haunting. A vengeful spirit wants to seek retribution by inhabiting the body of a WispClan kit or Novice. This could lead to catastrophic results.
6) Blood spilled. A standard skirmish between the two Clans results in a freak accident where one of their cats perishes. A border fatality hasn't occurred in generations, and the consequences of this will certainly include either Clan distrusting each other even more.
We could go with just the one fatality. If we go with two though, perhaps the former occurred with no discernable guilty parties; a cat may have fallen into the river, for instance- while on the second occasion, actual blood was spilled.
I've purposely left out any ShardClan plotlines for now until anividche brainstorms some ideas of her own. (Take your time, friend!) Once she contributes however, it will be time for a 2-Clan meeting!
We need to discuss each of these plots in detail- when they will occur, how long they may go on for, in which order will they be introduced in (and will some overlap?), and if there's any large gaps, what can be inserted in between?
Remember! In regards to WispClan, "the awakening" will be the most important and most drawn-out plot. It could even span several subplots.
Initially, it will be best if we focus on the relationship between the Clans first while also exploring their day to day lives through casual roleplay and character subplots. We want to get to know and care about the Clans first of all. This means events like the Twoleg discovery won't start on day one. This doesn't mean nothing exciting won't happen however! Deciding upon the first few smaller subplots is the first task we must work on!
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Non-binary
#F4B548
Name Colour
Dark Sun
Sage of the Stars
I'm devious, I'm devilish, I'm ever so deliciously evil
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Post by Dark Sun on Apr 3, 2022 6:14:13 GMT -5
I'm so committed to this idea that I want to make it into an actual plot. Everyone reading this who is participating in the RP's, let me know what you think! Fire me with questions, suggestions, and general feedback! Nothing here is set in stone.
- TWOLEG PLOT -
1) A mouse-brained Novice races across Whisker Ridge while the rest of their Clan is participating in a moonly ceremony at the Spirit Tree; perhaps they are chasing a butterfly or a piece of prey, like a bird. They become trapped on the furthest edge of the escarpment after some of the terrain crumbles away behind them, and they cry for help. Their Clanmates notice, and after assessing the situation, the Elder Circle declares the Novice a lost cause, and orders for no cat to attempt to rescue them. Not willing to let their Clanmate perish however, some Novices disobey their superiors and race ahead of their Clan across the narrow stretch of rock. They reach the other side unharmed, but before heading back, they lean over the edge and discover the Shipwreck. (Perhaps a mast has tipped over and has created a natural precarious "bridge".) The Novices then finally make their return.
2) The Novices are interrogated by the Elder Circle, who ask if they saw anything "strange" beyond Whisker Ridge. The Novices, who promised to keep quiet about it to each other, and also acting out of fear, lie to their Elders, claiming they saw nothing at all. The Elder Circle isn't convinced with the answer, but they dismiss them nonetheless.
3) The Novices continue to visit the Shipwreck every few days, working their way past Whisker Ridge and onto the "beast" itself. They eventually discover the corpse of a supposedly upright walking creature. This is enough to scare them off.
4) When they return, the Clan is waiting for them. (The Elders may have had a cat spy on the Novices? Maybe this Guardian ended up joining them, or rescuing them?) Once again the Novices are questioned in private, and are ordered to take a vow of silence, or they will face exile. The Novices obey, and they admit to the Clan during an official meeting that they saw nothing at the end of Whisker Ridge.
5) At some point through some (currently undetermined) means, the Novices prove the existence of the Shipwreck. The Elders admit their fib to the Clan, but tell them it is dangerously haunted filled with evil spirits. The Clan listens and a more official ban is put in place.
6) A Novice sneaks out to explore the Shipwreck again. They almost drown as the ship begins to break apart, but they are saved by an unknown but certainly friendly spirit (i.e. not their spirit guide). A new character position opens up here!
7) No cat believes the Novice about the spirit. The lie continues that such places are dangerous. We could introduce other signs of the Twolegs' existence here, such as debris, an abandoned Twoleg nest, etc.
8) Eventually, the Clan comes to realize that their Elders were lying to them about these strange places. The spirits they have met, beginning with the one at the Shipwreck, are kind and not vengeful. (<----- Perhaps some are though?) This will be another nail in the coffin for the tight grip the Elders have on Clan life in this fashion- controlling their views on the world beyond, or even inside their own borders.
9) Through this or some unrelated subplot, Twolegs are discovered.
Note: 8 & 9 have been butchered/completely reworked, so ignore those!
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Non-binary
#F4B548
Name Colour
Dark Sun
Sage of the Stars
I'm devious, I'm devilish, I'm ever so deliciously evil
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Post by Dark Sun on Apr 6, 2022 2:39:04 GMT -5
I personally don't find the "ending" (8&9) compelling, I think the loss in favor of the elders circle only being due to a creature that doesn't effect or have any role within the clan feels a bit strange. It starting that way, with the shipwreck and everything is great but I think the haunting subplot could come in and truly shake their beliefs. Maybe the elders try and hide this little mishap as well and finally breaks the trust between them and the clan? Thank you very much for your feedback! (: Honestly the last two pieces (8 & 9) were just slapped together for the sake of a conclusion; it was still very wide open for suggestion/debate. The whole plotline of the Clan finally "waking up" and distrusting their elders is a murky one without the details finalized. Many instances like the examples you gave will probably be needed to tip the Clan over the edge, so to speak. I love your ideas though, we will definitely run with them instead! Do you (or anyone else reading this) have any other suggestions for how and why WispClan will eventually begin distrusting their Elders and question their beliefs? Speaking of which, the whole history section on the WispClan RP page regarding the battle at the Forsaken Field? One possibility is the cats who fought there had nothing to do with WispClan, or at least very little. The origins of the Clan could largely be something quite different, and while the truths may never be fully uncovered, if the Clan were ever educated or discovered themselves that ancient WispClan cats had found interpretation where they perhaps shouldn't have just for the sake of keeping their faith/control alive and in sacrifice of historical accuracy, might caught a further rift. The Forsaken Field and Freedom's End forest are forbidden for a reason; perhaps spirits linger there, and the Elders don't want them to begin to dismantled their fragile "history"? Are there any plotlines anyone can think of surrounding this?
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Non-binary
#F4B548
Name Colour
Dark Sun
Sage of the Stars
I'm devious, I'm devilish, I'm ever so deliciously evil
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Post by Dark Sun on Apr 6, 2022 2:44:45 GMT -5
Or even the blood spilled border plot could work for that, anything that shows directly how the elders fear change over the loss of their clanmates. I don't think the "blood spilled" border plot will begin to turn the wheels in this direction on its own, but eventually this event could lead to a great conflict between the Clans (not directly; it would simply be the first fuel of the fire), and it is greatly demonstrated that the Elders care more about tradition than the safety of their own Clan. Once the Clan fully realizes this and come to grips that they don't have to accept it, the relationship will be shattered between them. (Unrelated example: If a flood occurred in WispClan land and the only safe place for the cats to gather was the Elder Circle's den, the Elders would push and shove their own cats outside, proclaiming it blasphemy for "lesser cats" to enter. They would sacrifice their own Clan over keeping old beliefs alive.) Using the above example as a possible source of inspiration, can anyone think of additional "controversial decisions" that begin to shatter the Clans' trust in the Elders? (^^^ One of which has already been established: the rat invasion. The Elders will forbid their Clanmates from being treated, for they lack the cures on their homeland- every other herb in the world is considered "tainted". If some WispClan cats, with the aid of some ShardClan cats as well, secretly treat these individuals, and are caught, this could lead to additional conflict. The Elders will believe that, by the decree of the Risen, that [their Clanmates] were meant to die, and ShardClan will be furious over the traitors in their Clan and for some of their herbs having been successfully stolen and used.)
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Non-binary
#F4B548
Name Colour
Dark Sun
Sage of the Stars
I'm devious, I'm devilish, I'm ever so deliciously evil
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Post by Dark Sun on Apr 6, 2022 2:48:05 GMT -5
WispClan is extremely devoted to their faith, and since the Elders and the Mender have the greatest connection to the spirit world, the rest of the Clan considers them their mouthpiece. In order for the Clan to truly lose faith in their Elders, it is conceivable a series of events must take place that allow them to think for themselves and question their beliefs without making them feel like they betraying their Clan. Them learning their history isn't entirely accurate could be one. Perhaps the Risen not having as much power as they had been taught could be another. (Ex. The Elders could claim that the Risen did this, the Risen did that, when in reality such "interventions" could have been thanks to over spirits.) (Do the Risen even exist at all, or is it nothing but propaganda? I think it would be interesting if over time this becomes a looming, dreadful question, but what do you all think?) (^^^ To clarify: According to their beliefs, the Risen have all of the power and know what's best for every cat, while the Elders are merely their mouthpiece (although they have a very reaching authority on their own). This nail has been stamped in so (almost) perfectly over countless generations that many acts others would find abhorrent, most of WispClan wouldn't have an issue with since its "just the way things are", if that makes sense. The Elders ordering a controversial decision or two, even if it risks the lives of some of their Clanmates, if not fully condemns them, won't be enough to pull this nail out of the board; in fact, the majority of WispClan may not think anything ill of it. They might perhaps need to be shown that the Risen don't / shouldn't possess this level of sovereignty and influence, that their beliefs have utterly blinded them.) (Since only the Seer, the Mender, and the Elder Circle traditionally have contact with the Risen, it's also possible that they've been abusing this for sometime, i.e. exploiting their Clans' inability and ignorance to their advantage. Either the Risen don't exist, or they do but the cats in charge of the Clan have been untruthful about many happenings, or the Risen aren't anything special at all, or other...? Sorry this is so messy. ) This isn't set in stone though. Everything is up for debate and possible change! (Ex. Should WispClan cats be this rooted in ancient belief/"religion"?) Thoughts anyone?
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Non-binary
#F4B548
Name Colour
Dark Sun
Sage of the Stars
I'm devious, I'm devilish, I'm ever so deliciously evil
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Post by Dark Sun on Apr 6, 2022 3:20:51 GMT -5
Or even the blood spilled border plot could work for that, anything that shows directly how the elders fear change over the loss of their clanmates. I forgot that I had yet to reveal this publicly, my bad! Anividche were discussing details over DM. The cat who will be killed in this plot will be a well-liked and respected ShardClan cat, which would fan the flames even more. When the time comes, especially if further skirmishes occurred since then, and the rat invasion plagues WispClan, ShardClan will deny them their herbs. (An eye for an eye.) ShardClan isn't entirely heartless though, if that's the vibe they gave off here. As for what will happen after both the ShardClan leaders and the Elder Circle from WispClan discover the stolen herbs / illegally cured cats, I don't know as of yet. Talk with Reden about the Haunting plot, she had some suggestions of her own, if you'd be open in hearing about them. (:
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Non-binary
#F4B548
Name Colour
Dark Sun
Sage of the Stars
I'm devious, I'm devilish, I'm ever so deliciously evil
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Post by Dark Sun on Apr 6, 2022 3:39:55 GMT -5
That could work very well! (: Again since the higher ranking cats normally have sole connection to the Risen, they could very easily abuse this privilege, and since the rest of their Clan have been indoctrinated for so long (spanning generations), they fail to see any flaws in regards to their leaders' orders; most don't anyway, there are some WispClan cats who would know better than to blindly follow orders. Not all are cookie cutter.
Perhaps these "dark guardian spirits" are the souls of Elders long and truly past who continue to influence the Clan even to this day? Although that might be a bit cliché, so perhaps not...
I love that idea! Do you think this should be introduced after the Banished + Islands of Departure storyline?
(^^^ Again with the DM's. Okay, so anividche discussed the idea that while ShardClan has little need to rely on StarClans' guidance, they are granted the knowledge (perhaps through a vision) that a "sacred tree" once bound them together, and they reason that WispClan stripped their heritage away from them. They demand access to the Spirit Tree, and while this is allowed for some amount of time, this inevitably leads to physical conflict, and WispClan drives them back. Again, through undetermined means, ShardClan learns of a sacred tree existing on the Islands of Departure, a "poor man's Spirit Tree" that the Banished have been using for some time. They attempt to gain the trust of these exiled WispClan cats with the goal of visiting this tree. They succeed, but they quickly deduce it to be a fraud, and the tensions between both Clans continue to escalate. ShardClan's Moonstone does exist on that island, but it is beneath the tree itself. Some plot will have to occur where ShardClan discovers this.
The Elder Circle have forbidden any of the Banished from talking, coming together, etc., so them discovering this illegal community could have drastic consequences. The Banished must secure their new way of life by any means...)
I like that idea very much! (: There would be some good spirits out there, like the one that saved the Novice on the shipwreck, and they might be the ones to restore some amount of hope for WispClan, but for a time, it may be necessary that WispClan regards them as the villain- the unwanted puppet masters. Their faith in them shouldn't be shattered forever, I don't think.
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Non-binary
#F4B548
Name Colour
Dark Sun
Sage of the Stars
I'm devious, I'm devilish, I'm ever so deliciously evil
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Post by Dark Sun on Apr 6, 2022 3:59:58 GMT -5
That's a possibility. (: Just an fyi the rogues may have little to nothing to do with the main storyline with WispClan. ShardClan will have their own things going on. We'll discuss this part in greater detail with anividche.
Edit: This will also be left up to other people and individual storylines they want to develop. If someone wishes to create a character that has an "unspoken connection" to [the Clans' lands], that'd be cool, but totally up to them if they want to pursue such an idea. (:
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Non-binary
#F4B548
Name Colour
Dark Sun
Sage of the Stars
I'm devious, I'm devilish, I'm ever so deliciously evil
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Post by Dark Sun on Apr 6, 2022 4:07:27 GMT -5
Perhaps for a lot of this we should treat it as "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it". Plots that could occur in between might change the outcomes of our designs and all that.
Here's what is set in stone. While WispClan has some slice of life action going on (border and hunting patrols, mentorships, a time at the Spirit Tree, Clanmates interacting, etc.), ShardClan will ofc have their own plotlines to be fulfilled, but that's up to anividche ofc. And then...
...? Future plots in between?...
Border fatality.
...? Future plots in between?...
Rat invasion.
Between these two plots that kick things off in terms of the distrust between both Clans steadily rising, should we have additional storylines?
How about the ShardClan Fledglings that aid the WispClan Novices in procuring the cure for the rat infestation (and the bites that come with it) are the same cats who bump into them at the Shipwreck at a later date? A very rough "friendship" will have already been formed (or at least a debt of gratitude from WispClan, and some level of respect comes from these ShardClan cats), but this can lead to actual friendships being formed over a period of time, maybe even some romantic storylines once they're adult cats.
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Post by Reden on Apr 6, 2022 17:44:09 GMT -5
I have arrived lol.
I will be linking Shardclan's page with all their info tonight/tomorrow. For context of how they are:
They are a mix of tribe and clan cats that had to leave their homes (reason has not yet been decided- we are unsure of if we will link this with Wispclan). Due to this, they have a mix of typical clan, tribe and Wispclan aspects. They are also wary of outsiders and are rather strict due to how harsh their territory is. That being said, the clan is very keen on having everyone close, though there's always exceptions.
They do not have access to a moonstone, so they don't really care for Starclan, they see it as a place that they go when they die but never seek advice from them as they consider it rude (though they do get the occasional prophecy/vision). The leaders do not get nine lives (currently) and they use a voting system to decide their heir (deputy). They see Wispclan as a bunch of crazy weirdos who disrespect their own history by making such elaborate tales (Shardclan tried to keep all information as factual as possible).
They do not trust Wispclan but would never try to cause conflict, they will have cats that specialize in tracking (spies) to go check out Wisp just to make sure that they don't have to worry about illness, predators or wispclan entering their territory from that side (they are very attentive to the mountains though).
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Non-binary
#F4B548
Name Colour
Dark Sun
Sage of the Stars
I'm devious, I'm devilish, I'm ever so deliciously evil
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Post by Dark Sun on Apr 7, 2022 13:21:26 GMT -5
While we should definitely look to the future, I think it's much more imperative that we focus most of our attention on the short-term. In regards to distant future plots, we'll cross that bridge when we come to it, although further brainstorming is absolutely still welcome and encouraged!
In regards to WispClan, unless anybody has any alternate suggestions and we go with that, they'll initially be some slice of life roleplaying to kick things off so that we can get to know the characters and their culture better. (Ex. Character interactions, mentoring, patrols, hunting sessions, a trip to the Spirit Tree, etc.)
In regards to what will be happening in ShardClan meanwhile, I'll leave it up to Reden to answer that.
The border fatality will likely be the first subplot to kick things forward. ("Subplot" because the consequences of this event will be the focus, and not the incident itself.) We will need to decide either artificially (through planning) or organically (through natural roleplay) when this incident will occur.
(Note: Environmental subplots, like a fox attack or a heavy storm, can happen anytime, and will not affect standard subplots and plots. Character subplots like forbidden romances and friendships also apply here.)
We also need to discuss what will happen in between this fatal encounter and another future plot, the rat invasion on WispClan territory.
If anyone can think of any subplots or plots that could occur in between these two events, post your suggestions for everyone to see, and we will discuss!
The overview for the rat invasion plot is that WispClan is invaded by a large colony of rats coming from beyond Mountain's Grief. All attempts at repelling or exterminating them are unsuccessful- the rats keep on coming. WindClan territory greatly lacks herbs against rat infection. Instead of looking to ShardClan for help, the Elder Circle will refuse to turn away from traditional mindsets, declaring all herbs beyond their borders "tainted" and "not fit for use". The Mender will have to bend the knee to them here. (A Mender has greater authority over their leaders in regards to treating others, but the Elders can still threaten expulsion if they go against their wishes regardless.) ShardClan won't help them either due to the fatal incident at Bridge Rocks (and other reasons that came from plots that were nestled in between these two?), declaring it an "eye for an eye".
(^^^ Reden Will this be accurate? ("An eye for an eye".) (Edit: Some will want revenge and will provide the loudest voices, most will be concerned about the diseases and the rat threat itself coming from WispClan territory and its cats. For safety reasons they will not assist them.)
Some of the WispClan cats, Novices especially, do not wish for their Clanmates to die, so they sneak off to ShardClan territory in order to procure some of the cures. They will need help acquiring them, and luckily some ShardClan cats may be willing to help. These herbs will be brought to the Mender, who is reluctant at first (due to threat of exile or other harsh punishment), but they'll decide in the end to help their injured in secret.
The Mender and the other cats involved from both Clans will eventually be caught from both Clans. It is undecided what their fates will be.
Regardless, at this point, the rats can be dealt with.
As for the plotlines around the Novices discovering the Shipwreck and the Haunting, we also need to discuss when these will initially take place.
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Post by Reden on Apr 7, 2022 17:41:32 GMT -5
ShardClan would also start as normal daily life, I plan to have a lot of internal conflict/plot lines opposed to external (with exception of WispClan). We will have more external conflict as the world is expanded.
As for the rat situation, ShardClan would be concerned about rats entering their territory/the diseases that could possibly be brought into the clan from interacting with WispClan. Often they will not make judgments of passion/revenge (as a whole due to how strict their decision process is) and will often look at long term/what will create the best outcome for the clan. However, this results in them be reluctant to protect/help others. They also would most likely see Wispclan as acting entitled/rude. That being said, some individual cats may want an eye for an eye, and would most likely be the most vocal about it.
However, a few sneaking cats may be more than willing to help out-
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Non-binary
#F4B548
Name Colour
Dark Sun
Sage of the Stars
I'm devious, I'm devilish, I'm ever so deliciously evil
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Post by Dark Sun on Apr 7, 2022 17:54:21 GMT -5
Thanks for the info! The Elder Circle and senior Guardians would certainly not ask them for assistance though out of the name of tradition (as they consider herbs beyond their lands "tainted"), but it's possible a couple of Guardians could bring the topic up (about ShardClan donating them some of their herbs), and then acting uncivilly when they are denied.
Prior to the freak accident / "murder" incident at the river, perhaps the prelude could be increased activity along Armored Branch and more border skirmishes along Bridge Rocks? The "incident" could occur when two adult cats are battling it out too close to the river's edge, or even on the boulders themselves. Alternatively, ShardClan could order a tactical retreat (or have won that day and are returning home with their heads held high) and a Guardian knocks one of the cats off a boulder by attacking from behind, resulting in them falling into the river and drowning? To ShardClan it would look very much like an intentional act but in reality the Guardian was acting completely out of line and failed to assess that the danger had passed, and ignored the rule of not engaging your opinion on the boulders?
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Post by Reden on Apr 7, 2022 18:01:07 GMT -5
They would probably not be super aware of the Elder Circle (despite adopting it into the culture) as the EC normally does not venture out. Spies would not get good looks at camp for the most part. They basically would do a quick look around to make sure that there isn't low prey, predators, illness or natural disasters- they don't really care about the internal affairs of WispClan so long as it doesn't cause any issues for ShardClan.
Due to this, they would be likely to assume* that the cat(s) who ask them is/are representing the clan.
ShardClan would be formal and send high ranked cats to represent the clan if they had to, so they would expect the same from WispClan. *
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Non-binary
#F4B548
Name Colour
Dark Sun
Sage of the Stars
I'm devious, I'm devilish, I'm ever so deliciously evil
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Post by Dark Sun on Apr 7, 2022 18:07:59 GMT -5
I like all of this! Just an fyi, I plan on one of my characters, Juniperberry, being cut from a different cloth from her denmates. She sometimes will go out on patrols, interacts with ShardClan on the rare occasion, attempts to get to know each of her Clanmates individually, etc., much to the disapproval of the rest of the Elders. She wouldn't disclose any private details on her position to ShardClan however, who might presume her to just be an elder who refuses to retire- despite this, her above average agility, strength, and ability for her age, as well as her fair nature, will demand respect.
She could also act as representative of the Clan on occasion.
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Non-binary
#F4B548
Name Colour
Dark Sun
Sage of the Stars
I'm devious, I'm devilish, I'm ever so deliciously evil
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Post by Dark Sun on Apr 7, 2022 18:23:49 GMT -5
Just an fyi to all readers, Gatherings are currently not a tradition that the Clans share. This may change in the future. They may be molded into the familiar form we know of in the canon books, or it is possible that only important ranking cats will be allowed to attend them, with a light number of Guardians / Defenders acting as escorts.
But we'll cross that bridge when we come to it!
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Non-binary
#F4B548
Name Colour
Dark Sun
Sage of the Stars
I'm devious, I'm devilish, I'm ever so deliciously evil
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Post by Dark Sun on Apr 7, 2022 21:57:44 GMT -5
As for when the Shipwreck plotline will commence, I was thinking when the Novices/Fledglings are approximately 9 phases / moons old, respectively? This way they'll be older and therefore more "able bodied" for tackling more dangerous terrain while still leaving the door open for future plotlines while they're still not fully graduated Clan cats.
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Non-binary
#F4B548
Name Colour
Dark Sun
Sage of the Stars
I'm devious, I'm devilish, I'm ever so deliciously evil
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Post by Dark Sun on Apr 11, 2022 11:28:50 GMT -5
This post is intended for anividche when she comes back.
How do you feel about ShardClan adopting an interview system before they consider taking cats in? These one-on-one interviews could take place outside of their territory in case the cat they are "questioning" is a spy/scout. An attempt of establishing a connection would be made, a way for the leader of ShardClan to get to know the cat personally - who they are, what they stand for, what to expect from them, and what they could offer. Once they felt comfortable enough, they could let the cat inside their territory, give them a tour of the camp and the surrounding land, give them hunting and battle training, etc. etc., whatever you decide the process should be.
Either this could be a staple standard procedure from the get-go, or a cat could suggest it in the future and it's later adopted.
If you don't feel like this would fit ShardClan customs, then I could possibly fit it into WispClan.
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Post by Reden on Apr 11, 2022 20:52:11 GMT -5
This post is intended for anividche when she comes back.
How do you feel about ShardClan adopting an interview system before they consider taking cats in? These one-on-one interviews could take place outside of their territory in case the cat they are "questioning" is a spy/scout. An attempt of establishing a connection would be made, a way for the leader of ShardClan to get to know the cat personally - who they are, what they stand for, what to expect from them, and what they could offer. Once they felt comfortable enough, they could let the cat inside their territory, give them a tour of the camp and the surrounding land, give them hunting and battle training, etc. etc., whatever you decide the process should be.
Either this could be a staple standard procedure from the get-go, or a cat could suggest it in the future and it's later adopted.
If you don't feel like this would fit ShardClan customs, then I could possibly fit it into WispClan. I think all cats would be scouted. They would watch them for a while and investigate them before even offering- find out who they live with, their hunting skills, do they eat everything they get? Do they seem to know herbs? Then the scout will make themselves seen, they would start taking to them (are they trusting? Too trusting? Clever? Honest? so on), and get to know them more and report everything back. I think it would be at least a moon throughout this process. They will probably not allow cats in for a while, so I think that it would be a system developed over time.
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Non-binary
#F4B548
Name Colour
Dark Sun
Sage of the Stars
I'm devious, I'm devilish, I'm ever so deliciously evil
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Post by Dark Sun on Apr 11, 2022 20:54:33 GMT -5
This post is intended for anividche when she comes back.
How do you feel about ShardClan adopting an interview system before they consider taking cats in? These one-on-one interviews could take place outside of their territory in case the cat they are "questioning" is a spy/scout. An attempt of establishing a connection would be made, a way for the leader of ShardClan to get to know the cat personally - who they are, what they stand for, what to expect from them, and what they could offer. Once they felt comfortable enough, they could let the cat inside their territory, give them a tour of the camp and the surrounding land, give them hunting and battle training, etc. etc., whatever you decide the process should be.
Either this could be a staple standard procedure from the get-go, or a cat could suggest it in the future and it's later adopted.
If you don't feel like this would fit ShardClan customs, then I could possibly fit it into WispClan. I think all cats would be scouted. They would watch them for a while and investigate them before even offering- find out who they live with, their hunting skills, do they eat everything they get? Do they seem to know herbs? Then the scout will make themselves seen, they would start taking to them (are they trusting? Too trusting? Clever? Honest? so on), and get to know them more and report everything back. I think it would be at least a moon throughout this process. They will probably not allow cats in for a while, so I think that it would be a system developed over time. All of this sounds great! Do you think they would also implement a slow introduction process like SkyClan used to by requiring the cat who they finally let into the territory hunt for the Clan every day for a moon or so? Giving them battle training and showing them around the key parts of the territory would come much later, logically.
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