#the warrior code

[rippleclan]

[Image ID: the title of the article is "Clerics & Their Code". Fennelspot sits underneath the words.]

A two-for-one deal, since the cleric description and the code of clerics option both won in the last lore vote. Today we'll be looking at the two main responsibilities of a cleric and the unique set of restrictions that bind them.

Clerics: Healing

The main job of a cleric, the one which most cats can relate to, is to heal sick and injured Clanmates. Their medicine dens are not only places for recovering cats to sleep but act as important stores for medicinal liquids, powders, and other concoctions. Clerics are very picky about who can meddle in their stores, but there are multiple roles that need access to the medicinal goods. Artisans trade certain medicines with other Clans. Mediators sometimes need herbal remedies for the mental afflictions of the Clan. Historians often learn about medicine in their studies. Meanwhile, caretakers and warriors often assist in collecting herbs and turning them into medicine. Other cats can all be recruited to help clerics in times of crisis when they need more paws caring for injuries or are too sick to care for others themselves.

Cleric medicine is a complex enough topic that a cleric spends most of their life devoted to the subject. It's not just about collecting the right leaves and stuffing them onto wounds. In this world, clerics have a wider range of medicinal technology. They harvest herbs and transform them into some of the following;

Infused oils: While WheatClan is the only Clan that produces the ever-useful flaxseed oil, which they trade for use in both food and medicine, clerics and artisans can make a simpler, cruder oil from animal fat (the finished product isn't considered "oil", however, due to its differences from flaxseed oil). Clerics infuse this oil with herbs by mixing the two in one pot, then setting it inside a bigger pot with some water over a fire (clerics have their own fireplace/oven setup that is only used for medicine). The water around the smaller pot infuses the herbs into the oil over the course of an hour. When it's done, they strain the herbs out of the oil and keep the finished product.

Salves/Balms/Ointments: Clerics mix their infused oil with a strong wax (beeswax or tallow) to create a stronger variation of a traditional chewed poultice (although they may add some solid herbs to the finished product). Ointments involve the use of water and are better for skin/fur issues than the stiffer salves and balms.

Concoctions: This includes adding herbs to food for medicinal benefits, boiling herbs for decoctions, mixing herbs with honey, and otherwise mashing them together.

Clerics also use the herbs as we are traditionally familiar with, having patients chew them or eat them whole. A cleric's job also involves a series of non-herbal strategies, which includes the use of leeches, exercise, grooming, rituals to StarClan, and more. Notably, while cobwebs are a great emergency bandage, artisans can craft actual bandages from animal skin and plant fiber. Some of these bandages can be washed out and reused.

Clerics: Connection To StarClan

The other major job of a cleric is to maintain a connection to StarClan and advise their Clan on the opinions and advice of their ancestors. If a StarClan cat needs to speak to a living cat, they will usually go for the cleric. Oftentimes, StarClan only has the strength and knowledge to send vague signs and omens which clerics are trained to identify and interpret. They visit StarClan's Shrine on the half-moon preceding the Gathering in order to reconnect with the ancestors and get more clear-cut advice (while also connecting with fellow clerics on spiritual/medical matters).

Clerics have a wide range of rituals designed to bring strength from StarClan. They can also summon StarClan spirits through a special ritual (which I will explain another time). They can even perform a variant of it to speak to a Dark Forest cat, but this is seen as taboo and would earn ire from StarClan's Judges.

The Code of Clerics Origins: The First Cleric

The first cleric in the impressive records all historians work hard to maintain was known as Hickoryroot. A lot of her story sounds like myth at this point, but historians have worked hard to keep it as true as they could.

It is said she was a SlugClan warrior from the days where roles were not split as they are in the modern Clans. It is said that she learned some of the first medicines from watching a human (a Native American, possibly East Cree) gather herbs and turn them into a medicine for a wounded friend. The stars saw her experimentation and provided the herbs she needed to establish the foundations of Clan medicine. This provincial relationship made the role of the cleric forever connected to StarClan.

The process of preparing medicine was so time consuming that Hickoryroot had no time to help with hunting, kit care, or the other duties of a warrior. As such, the Clans decided her role would be distinct from the others. She would work under a different set of rules. With that, the Code of Clerics began to grow.

The Decrees within the Code of Clerics

A cleric's job is to care for the health of their Clan and connect the worlds of the living and dead. As such, they are not expected to help in other duties in the same way as most of the other roles. In fact, it is the duty of the Clan to support the cleric in whatever they need. They need more bandages? Artisans will make more bandages. They need extra paws to harvest herbs? Caretakers will join them and care for their herb patches/gardens for them. The Clan will protect and feed the cleric so all they have to worry about is their job.

It is forbidden to endanger, harm, or disrupt the work of a cleric. StarClan helps them heal their Clanmates and guide the Clans as a whole. Since clerics are forbidden from combat, to attack one is sacrilegious and will send a cat to trial. Only StarClan can order a cleric not to heal someone in need. If a cleric decides they need to help, no one can stop them.

Hickoryroot established this practice as a social custom, but it was later solidified as code that clerics cannot take a mate or have kits, even as an honor sire. It's not that a cleric would be distracted by their family (they have friends, siblings, and parents, after all), but rather that a cleric is a servant of StarClan and has an elevated position over other cats. They cannot take a mate in an equal relationship and they cannot take the guiding role of a parent without diluting their spiritual connections. It should be noted, however, that this aspect of the code is only a tradition in RippleClan, not a decree. Clerics in RippleClan are allowed to pursue relationships. Whether Fennelspot will take a mate one day remains to be seen...

[thunders-warcats-stuff]

Warrior Code (for my fics)

This is version three of a warrior code that attempts to be clear but still leave room for cats to bend without breaking it outright

Defend your Clan through skirmish and war. Always know who you fight for. In dark times, these cats may be your sole comfort.

Boundaries stand for a reason and are to be respected. If you cross into another Clan’s territory, they will have every right to challenge you. In times of famine, mercy is expected.

Those who cannot feed and fend for themselves are placed above those who can.

Prayers to your ancestors bring more but don’t waste what you have.

Kittens must see six moons or hit their growth before they see battle with another Clan

Those who have gained their skill-names must prove themselves worthy of those names by protecting and providing for their Clanmates. This usually takes the form of a Night Challenge.

A cat must have mentored an apprentice or raised a litter in order to be deputy.

Deputies must prove they can handle the challenges of Clan life, as they are expected to succeed their leader.

In case of a deputy's death, retirement, or otherwise demotion, leaders have a quarter-moon to choose a new deputy. Likewise, in case of a leader's death, retirement, or otherwise demotion, a deputy has a quarter-moon to greet their ancestors and assume leadership of their Clan.

The line of succession is clear: there must always be a leader, deputy, and healer at all time. Any attempts to deviate must be resolved by the healer(s).

A Gathering of all Clans is held each full moon. A truce is enacted from sunrise to sunrise.

Cats in need of help are to be aided no matter the background. Kits, especially, are never to be left alone on Clan territory, no matter where they come from.

The Clan leader supersedes all but the healer, who speaks for the ancestors. Leaders have nine lives to serve their Clan. A leader's word is for the good of the Clan. But lives can be taken and so can leadership.

Do not kill unless in self-defense. All effort should be made to spare a life but a cat must do what they can to live. Reparations should be attempted for the wronged party.

A warrior revels in their way of life, but should not scorn others for a chosen path. Outsiders are to be respected but be wary of ill intentions.

[crossed-paws]

Crossed Paws, Book 1: Rising

The Clan Lore of Crossed Paws

STARCLAN

In my universe, unlike in canon, StarClan can interfere with the world of the living but also functions much closer to our concept of the afterlife. It is a spiritual and supernatural place that cannot be observed but there are occasions when cats with "special" abilities can communicate with StarClan under certain conditions.

Cats with these abilities can communicate with StarClan at Three Trees, the burial site of the Fang Trio, and can receive prophecies and messages. These cats act as messengers between the Clans and the cats of StarClan.

THE WARRIOR CODE

The Warrior Code is a concept that doesn't strictly exist, however, there is an unspoken set of rules that the Clans and Clan cats follow in their daily lives to ensure a peaceful existence alongside each other. There are a handful of rules which are universal, such as protecting the young and elderly, though the stances on other rules can vary from leader to leader.

HISTORY AND CULTURE

The clans were founded in the early 1900s, though how they actually came to be is unknown to the current generation of Clan cats, however, many legends and stories surround the founders of the original three clans. Of these legends and stories, only one has ever been believed by Clan cats to be truthful, though some cats are even doubtful of this since these stories all come from the elders.

Due to the introduction of herbs and plants into the Clans and the training of Herbalists, the Clans are a lot larger than they were in the past and this has made survival more important than ever, especially due to the current famines that are occurring.

Though the Clans were originally created to be a unification of cats under the Fang Trio, eventually there were periods of infighting and conflict which led to separation into four clans rather than the original three.

Currently, the political state of the Clans is complicated. Some moons, they are living peacefully, though other moons are wrought with conflict and violence. Right now, they are somewhere between the two, with WoodClan still recovering from the reign of their previous leader, Woodstar, who had led the Clan to the brink of starvation.

RANKS WITHIN THE WARRIOR CLANS

The ranks within the Clans are much different in my universe than they are in Warriors canon. There are many more ranks, as well as titles that the most prestigious and honoured cats may receive. Other cats may also receive significant titles based on achievements, and a special ceremony is held in order for a title to be bestowed. Among the Clans, this is known as the Honouring Ritual.

WARRIOR RANKS

Sentinel

A Sentinel is a highly respected and crucial role within the Clan, typically filled by the most vigilant and experienced Warriors. These seasoned Warriors are entrusted with the vital task of guarding the Clan's territory and ensuring the safety of their fellow Clanmates. Their duties include conducting border patrols to detect and respond to potential threats, such as intruding predators or rival Clans, as well as performing nightly vigils at the camp entrance. Sentinels must remain alert and observant, ready to act swiftly to protect the Clan and maintain its security.

Beyond physical demands, the role of a Sentinel is mentally challenging, requiring not only combat skills but also the wisdom and experience to anticipate and address dangers. Their presence as the first line of defense is a key factor in the Clan's survival, and their unwavering dedication symbolizes the strength, loyalty, and protective values of the Clan. As such, Sentinels are held in high regard, their commitment and vigilance serving as a cornerstone of the Clan's security and peace of mind.

Mentor

A Mentor in the Clans is a prestigious role given to experienced Warriors who are responsible for training young Apprentices, preparing them to become full-fledged Warriors. This involves not only teaching combat techniques but also instructing in stealth, hunting, and other essential skills for survival. A key part of a Mentor's role is to instill in their Apprentices the Warrior Code, ensuring they understand the values of loyalty, honour, and respect that are central to Clan life.

The bond between Mentor and Apprentice is significant and often extends beyond the Apprentice's training period. Mentors serve as role models, shaping their Apprentice's character and guiding them in understanding their responsibilities within the Clan. The effectiveness of a Mentor is seen in the growth and maturity of their Apprentice, making mentorship a vital aspect of the Clan's continuity and strength.

Fighter

In the Clans, the rank of Fighter is a prestigious title bestowed upon the most ferocious and formidable Warriors, those whose exceptional combat skills and fierce demeanor have earned them high regard within their Clan. Fighters are often seen as the ultimate defenders of their Clan, possessing not only raw strength but also a deep understanding of battle tactics and an unyielding spirit. Their prowess in combat sets them apart from other warriors, marking them as individuals who can be relied upon in the most perilous situations.

The duties of a Fighter are extensive and vary from Clan to Clan, reflecting the unique challenges and threats faced by each group. However, common responsibilities include fending off predators that pose a danger to the Clan, such as large predators or rival animals, as well as engaging in combat with Fighters from other Clans during territorial disputes or wars. Fighters are often called upon during times of conflict, their skills pivotal in ensuring the Clan's survival and dominance. Due to their exceptional abilities and the critical nature of their role, Fighters are frequently honoured in special ceremonies, such as the Honouring Ritual, where they are often bestowed with significant titles that recognize their contributions and valor. This recognition not only solidifies their status within the Clan but also serves as an inspiration to other Warriors, highlighting the importance of strength, bravery, and dedication to the Clan's cause.

Hunter

The rank of Hunter is a specialized and respected position reserved for members who exhibit exceptional skill in the essential tasks of hunting, foraging, and scavenging. Hunters are the lifeblood of the Clan, responsible for ensuring a steady supply of food and resources that sustain their fellow Clanmates. This rank is typically awarded to younger and more agile cats, whose speed, sharp reflexes, and keen senses make them particularly adept at these critical tasks.

While most Hunters focus on honing their hunting skills, mastering the art of stalking prey and making swift, precise kills, they are also required to possess a basic knowledge of both foraging and scavenging. This versatility is crucial, as the availability of prey can fluctuate with the seasons, and the Clan must rely on other sources of sustenance during lean times. Foraging involves gathering edible plants, herbs, and other natural resources, while scavenging may require locating and retrieving carrion or other usable materials from the environment. The rank of Hunter is therefore not just about physical prowess but also about adaptability, resourcefulness, and a deep understanding of the environment, making these cats indispensable to the Clan’s survival.

Protector

The rank of Protector holds a critical role within the Clan, embodying the essence of loyalty, vigilance, and strength. Protectors are the backbone of the Clan's defense, ensuring the safety and stability of both the leadership and the broader community. Their primary function is to safeguard the Clan's leaders, such as the High Saint or Ambassadors, who rely on Protectors to shield them from any potential threats, both external and internal. These Protectors are typically the most experienced and battle-hardened members of the Clan, trusted for their unwavering dedication and exceptional combat skills. They serve as a personal guard unit, constantly by the side of the leadership, ready to act at a moment's notice to preserve the well-being and authority of those in power.

Meanwhile, the younger and less experienced Protectors take on a slightly different, yet equally important, role within the Clan. These Protectors are assigned to patrol groups, where they learn the intricacies of their duties under the guidance of a Sentinel. These patrol groups are responsible for scouting the Clan's territory and ensuring that it remains free from threats such as predators, rival Clans, or other dangers. Patrols are meticulously scheduled to take place at Sun Rise, Sun High, and Sun Fall, ensuring that the Clan’s borders are consistently monitored throughout the day. These patrols are not only vital for maintaining the security of the Clan’s territory but also serve as a rigorous training ground for young Protectors, helping them to develop the skills, instincts, and discipline required to eventually ascend to the ranks of those who guard the leadership. Through this structured and tiered approach, Protectors play an indispensable role in maintaining the integrity, safety, and continuity of the Clan.

HEALER RANKS

Prophet

Within the Clans, the role of Prophet is a revered and mystical position, reserved for those who have been blessed with the extraordinary ability to communicate directly with StarClan, the ancestral spirits who guide and watch over the living. Prophets are not merely Healers; they are considered the spiritual leaders of the Clan, serving as the voice of StarClan and interpreting the will of their ancestors. These cats are chosen based on their ability to establish a strong connection with StarClan, a gift that is both rare and sacred. The depth and clarity of this connection determine a prophet's standing within the Clan’s spiritual hierarchy.

The internal ranking system of Prophets reflects the varying degrees of their connection to StarClan, with the highest rank being a Cassiopeian Prophet and the lowest an Orion Prophet. A Cassiopeian Prophet, akin to a cardinal in human religious systems, holds the greatest spiritual authority and is often seen as the chief interpreter of StarClan's will. This Prophet guides not only their own Clan but also provides spiritual counsel to other Clans, making them a figure of immense influence and respect.

On the other end of the spectrum, an Orion Prophet, comparable to a deacon, may have a less direct connection with StarClan but still plays a crucial role in the spiritual life of the Clan. These Prophets may assist in rituals, offer guidance to younger cats, and support the higher-ranking Prophets in their duties. Together, Prophets at all levels work to ensure that the will of StarClan is understood and followed, maintaining the spiritual health and unity of the Clan.

Shaman

The Shaman within a Clan holds a deeply sacred and mystical role, standing apart from other Healers due to their unique and extraordinary abilities. Unlike typical Healers who focus on the physical well-being of their Clanmates, a Shaman serves as a crucial link between the visible world and the spirit world. This cat possesses the rare and revered gift of being able to leave their physical body and travel into the spirit realm, a skill that is both awe-inspiring and vital to the spiritual health of the Clan. The Shaman’s role is not only to heal physical wounds but also to navigate the complex spiritual landscape, ensuring harmony between the living and the spirits of their ancestors.

One of the Shaman's most important duties is to assist Cassiopeian Prophets during burial rites. In this capacity, the Shaman plays a key role in ensuring that a Warrior’s spirit is properly guided into StarClan, the revered afterlife where the Clan’s ancestors reside. This sacred responsibility involves intricate rituals and deep spiritual knowledge, as the Shaman helps to secure the safe passage of the deceased, ensuring they join the ranks of StarClan.

Beyond this, the Shaman possesses a unique and formidable ability unmatched by any other Clan member: the power to communicate with the spirits of both the Dark Forest and the Unnamed Residence — realms associated with the more malevolent or lost souls. This ability to interact with these darker aspects of the spirit world makes the Shaman an essential figure in protecting the Clan from potential spiritual dangers, as well as offering a chance for redemption or understanding for those spirits that dwell outside of StarClan's light. The successor of the Shaman is chosen explicitly by StarClan once the previous Shaman has passed on.

Herbalist

Within a Clan, the rank of Herbalist is a fundamental and highly valued position, despite being the most common among Healers. These cats are the medical experts of the Clan, possessing extensive knowledge of the various herbs and plants that grow within their territory and beyond. Their expertise lies in the identification, properties, and applications of these natural remedies, which they skillfully employ to treat a wide range of ailments. From soothing minor wounds to combating serious infections and illnesses, Herbalists are the primary caregivers who ensure the Clan remains healthy and strong.

Although their role might seem ordinary compared to the more mystical ranks like Shamans or Prophets, Herbalists are actually among the most crucial members of the Clan. They are the first line of defense against the physical ailments that can threaten the well-being of their fellow Clanmates. Whether tending to a Fighter injured in battle, curing an Apprentice of an illness, or easing the suffering of an Elder with chronic pain, Herbalists are constantly at work, applying their deep understanding of nature’s medicine. Their steady, reliable presence is vital for the Clan’s daily survival, making them indispensable in maintaining the health and resilience of the community. The Herbalist's knowledge is often passed down through generations, ensuring that each new Herbalist is as skilled and prepared as those who came before, safeguarding the Clan's future through their healing paws.

Seer

A Seer is a unique and highly revered type of Prophet within the Clan, distinguished by their ability to receive and interpret visions directly from StarClan. Unlike standard Prophets, who primarily serve as interpreters of the ancestral messages and guidance, Seers are granted a more profound connection to the spiritual realm. They experience vivid, often prophetic visions that provide insights into what StarClan is currently doing or revealing. These visions can encompass a wide range of spiritual and temporal insights, including omens, glimpses of future events, or messages meant to influence the Clan's decisions.

The role of a Seer extends beyond mere interpretation of spiritual messages; they are instrumental in advising the leadership on how to navigate upcoming challenges and opportunities based on the divine omens they receive. Their visions often come as dreams or sudden flashes of insight, and they require careful contemplation and analysis to decode their full meaning. Seers are expected to provide the Clan's leaders with guidance that aligns with the will of StarClan, helping them to make informed decisions that will shape the future of the Clan. This direct line to the divine and the foresight offered by their visions make seers invaluable assets, as they help the Clan anticipate and prepare for what lies ahead, ensuring that their strategies and actions are in harmony with the broader spiritual direction provided by their ancestors.

APPRENTICE RANKS

Trainee

The rank of Trainee is a fundamental stage in a young cat's development within the Clan, marking the transition from a carefree Sacred to a disciplined and skilled member of the Warrior ranks. Unlike other Apprenticeships that might be geared toward a specific role within the Clan, Trainees are given a broad and comprehensive education that prepares them for any potential path under the rank of a Warrior. This phase of training is designed to equip them with a well-rounded set of skills, ensuring they are versatile and adaptable, ready to serve the Clan in whatever capacity is needed when they reach maturity.

Each Trainee is assigned to a Mentor, an experienced Warrior who takes on the responsibility of guiding their development. Mentors usually oversee groups of three or four Trainees, creating a collaborative learning environment where young cats can learn from both their Mentor and each other. The training they receive is extensive and covers a wide range of essential Warrior skills. This includes combat techniques to prepare them for battles, hunting strategies to ensure the Clan is well-fed, as well as specialized abilities such as climbing and swimming — vital for navigating the varied terrains within and beyond their territory. Mentors tailor their instruction to suit the needs and strengths of their Trainees, often incorporating additional skills they deem valuable, depending on the specific challenges the Clan may face. This period of rigorous training is crucial, as it lays the foundation for the Trainees to grow into capable and resourceful Warriors, ready to uphold the honor and security of the Clan. The Trainee training period typically lasts until the Trainee reaches the age of twelve moons.

Junior Herbalist

The rank of Junior Herbalist is a specialized apprenticeship within the Clan, dedicated to training young cats to become full-fledged Herbalists, the primary Healers. This apprenticeship lasts as long as a general Trainee's, but its focus is exclusively on the medicinal arts. Each Junior Herbalist is paired with a seasoned Herbalist Mentor who teaches them to identify various plants, understand their medicinal properties, and apply them correctly. This hands-on training covers everything from treating wounds and infections to curing illnesses, ensuring a thorough understanding of herbal medicine.

In addition to their theoretical education, Junior Herbalists accompany Hunters on foraging patrols. These patrols provide practical field training in identifying and harvesting the necessary herbs in their natural habitats. This dual approach ensures Junior Herbalists are well-versed in both the knowledge and practical skills required for their role. By the end of their apprenticeship, they are fully prepared to transition into the rank of a full Herbalist, ready to maintain the health and well-being of their Clan.

Disciple

The rank of Disciple is a specialized branch of Apprentice within the Clan, distinguished by their unique connection to StarClan and their innate spiritual abilities. Unlike regular Apprentices who are trained for various Warrior roles, Disciples are carefully chosen by Prophets and Seers due to their remarkable potential to communicate with StarClan. Often, these young cats have already begun receiving messages or visions from their ancestors, though they typically struggle to understand or interpret the spiritual guidance they receive. This natural but unrefined connection to the divine sets them apart, marking them as future spiritual leaders or guides within the Clan.

Disciple training is an open-ended process with no fixed completion date. Unlike other forms of apprenticeship, which have a clear timeline, the training of a Disciple continues until they demonstrate sufficient proficiency in their spiritual abilities. This training is deeply immersive and involves learning how to interpret visions, understand divine omens, and accurately receive messages from StarClan. The Cassiopeian Prophet, one of the highest spiritual authorities within the Clan, plays a crucial role in this process, assessing each Disciple's progress. Only when the Cassiopeian Prophet is confident in a Disciple's ability to reliably connect with and interpret StarClan's will do they declare their training complete. This rigorous and deeply spiritual journey prepares Disciples for their future roles as spiritual conduits within the Clan, ensuring that they are ready to guide their Clanmates with wisdom and divine insight.

Apprentice Mentor

The rank of Apprentice Mentor is a distinguished position within the Clan, separate from the general Apprentice rank, and is reserved for those young cats who have shown a particular talent for assisting their fellow Apprentices during their own training. This role is not automatically assigned but is instead offered to those Apprentices who have demonstrated a natural inclination towards leadership, guidance, and teaching. Typically, a Mentor may recommend a cat for this role after observing their helpfulness, patience, and ability to effectively support and instruct others in their group.

Becoming an Apprentice Mentor is unique within the Clan because it is one of the few ranks that a cat can pursue by request rather than being assigned based on necessity or ability alone. Once an Apprentice expresses interest and is deemed suitable, they undergo a specialized training period that is notably shorter than that of regular apprenticeship, lasting only six moons. Despite its brevity, this training is intense and requires a great deal of patience and dedication. Apprentice Mentors are taught how to refine their teaching techniques, learn more advanced skills, and develop the qualities necessary to guide younger Apprentices through their training. The goal is to prepare them not only to excel in their own warrior duties but also to take on the responsibility of mentoring future generations of Clan members, ensuring the continued strength and unity of the Clan.

Mediator

The rank of Mediator is a specialized Apprentice role within the Clan, designed for those destined to become Ambassadors — cats who play a crucial role in mediating and overseeing negotiations between various parties, whether within the Clan or between the Clan and external groups. Unlike other apprenticeships, the path to becoming a Mediator begins only after a cat has completed twelve moons of foundational Warrior training under the guidance of a Mentor. This ensures that aspiring Mediators possess a solid understanding of the Clan's culture, values, and warrior skills before embarking on their specialized training.

Once the initial Warrior training is complete, Mediator training focuses intensely on the development of negotiation and diplomacy skills. This period of training is relatively brief, lasting only four to six moons, but it is highly concentrated and tailored to the specific abilities and previous experiences of the Apprentice. During this time, the Mediator Apprentice hones their ability to navigate complex discussions, mediate disputes, and foster understanding between conflicting parties. The training emphasizes the importance of neutrality, empathy, and strategic thinking, all essential qualities for an effective Ambassador. Upon completion, the Mediator is well-prepared to take on the vital role of ensuring peaceful and fair resolutions to conflicts, safeguarding the interests of the Clan while maintaining harmonious relationships both within and beyond their borders.

LEADERSHIP RANKS

Herald

The Herald of a Clan holds a position equivalent in rank to that of a Deputy in traditional Warriors canon, serving as a key advisor and right hand to the High Saint, the Clan's leader. This prestigious role involves a wide range of responsibilities that are crucial to the smooth functioning of the Clan. One of the primary duties of the Herald is to assist the High Saint in overseeing various ceremonial aspects of Clan life, such as Naming Ceremonies where young cats receive their official names and ranks, and Honouring Rituals that celebrate significant achievements or transitions within the Clan.

In addition to their ceremonial duties, the Herald plays a vital role in maintaining communication and diplomacy between Clans. They are entrusted with the responsibility of carrying official messages and representing the Clan during crucial gatherings. Every full moon, the Herald is tasked with attending the Gathering, an important meeting where representatives from all Clans come together to discuss matters of mutual concern, resolve disputes, and share news. During these Gatherings, the Herald serves as the voice of their Clan, delivering messages and negotiating on behalf of the High Saint, ensuring that the Clan's interests are well-represented and that relations with other Clans remain stable and constructive. The role of the Herald is, therefore, integral to both the internal harmony of the Clan and its external diplomatic relations.

Ambassador

The Ambassadors of a Clan are esteemed diplomats who hold the crucial responsibility of managing negotiations, trade agreements, and other diplomatic engagements on behalf of their Clan. These cats are more than just negotiators; they are the official representatives of their Clan's values, culture, and interests, ensuring that their Clan's voice is heard and respected in all external interactions. Ambassadors are carefully chosen for their keen understanding of diplomacy, their ability to navigate complex situations, and their skill in fostering positive relations with other Clans and outside groups. Their work often involves delicate discussions where they must balance the needs and desires of their own Clan with the expectations and demands of others, making their role essential for maintaining peace and securing beneficial alliances.

In addition to their individual duties, Ambassadors play a vital role during significant Clan events, particularly at Gatherings where Ambassadors accompany the Herald and High Saint, providing strategic support and advice in any negotiations that arise between Clans. Their presence strengthens the Clan's position in these discussions, as they bring a deep understanding of diplomatic nuances and are adept at guiding conversations toward favorable outcomes. Whether it's securing trade deals, mediating conflicts, or representing their Clan's stance on important issues, Ambassadors are instrumental in shaping the external relationships of their Clan and safeguarding its future.

High Saint

The High Saint is the revered leader of a Clan, a position of immense power and responsibility, chosen by the divine will of StarClan with the crucial assistance of the Shaman. Typically, the cat elevated to this esteemed role has already proven themselves as a Herald or an Ambassador, demonstrating the leadership qualities and diplomatic acumen necessary to guide the Clan. Once selected, the High Saint undergoes the sacred Leadership Rite, a profound ceremony where StarClan bestows upon them the extraordinary gift of nine lives.

Each of these lives is tied to a distinct personality trait, such as courage, wisdom, or compassion, which the High Saint must nurture and embody throughout their leadership. This unique blessing not only extends their physical lifespan but also deepens their spiritual connection to StarClan, enhancing their ability to lead with a multifaceted perspective.

Despite their elevated status and the divine blessing of nine lives, the High Saint's ability to communicate with StarClan is not without its challenges. While they are capable of receiving messages from the ancestral spirits, their interpretation of these messages is often limited without the guidance of a Prophet or Seer. The Shaman aids in this communication, acting as a bridge between the High Saint and the spiritual realm, but it is the Prophets and Seers who provide the crucial insights needed to correctly understand and act upon StarClan's will. This dynamic makes the High Saint both a powerful and a dependent figure, as their leadership is intertwined with the spiritual counsel of their Clan's Prophets and Seers. As the embodiment of StarClan's chosen leader, the High Saint carries the weight of their Clan's future on their shoulders, guiding them through both prosperity and peril with the divine support of their ancestors.

OTHER RANKS

Elder

The Elders of the Clan are esteemed senior members who, due to age, injury, loss of sight, or illness, are no longer able to fulfill the physical demands of hunting or fighting. These cats, who have dedicated much of their lives to the service of the Clan, are held in high regard and treated with deep respect. Their advanced years and accumulated wisdom make them valuable sources of knowledge and experience, though their contributions are now more often in the form of guidance and counsel rather than direct action.

In their retirement, Elders receive dedicated care from younger Clan members, particularly the Apprentices. The Apprentices are responsible for bringing fresh-kill to the Elders, ensuring their dietary needs are met, and performing tasks such as picking out fleas and changing their bedding to maintain their comfort and health. Most Elders are retired Warriors or Healers, who have served the Clan in various capacities before stepping down from their active roles. However, Shamans are an exception; they often continue to practice their spiritual duties until the end of their lives, contributing to the Clan’s spiritual guidance.

Despite their retired status, many Elders are viewed as repositories of invaluable Clan history and tradition, offering insights and wisdom that continue to shape the Clan's values and decisions. Their presence is a reminder of the continuity and depth of the Clan's heritage, providing a bridge between the past and the present.

Scholar

A Scholar is a revered position held by an Elder within the Clan who undertakes the crucial role of documenting and preserving the Clan's history. This role, while not officially recognized as a formal rank within the Clan's hierarchy, is highly valued for its importance in maintaining the Clan's collective memory. The Scholar meticulously records significant events such as births, deaths, and other key occurrences that shape the Clan's legacy. This record-keeping is essential for ensuring that future generations of Clan cats have access to a detailed account of their history, including the achievements, struggles, and milestones of their predecessors.

Although the role of Scholar is not formalized with specific duties or rank, it is considered integral by the Clan due to its impact on cultural continuity and historical preservation. Scholars often possess a deep understanding of the Clan’s traditions, legends, and lineage, making them vital custodians of the Clan's heritage. They work to ensure that the knowledge and experiences of past generations are not lost but are passed down to younger members. By documenting the Clan’s history, Scholars play a significant role in shaping the identity and values of the Clan, fostering a sense of continuity and connection among its members. Their efforts help to ensure that the Clan's legacy endures, providing future generations with a rich tapestry of their shared past.

Blessed

The rank of Blessed is a revered status within the Clans, conferred upon she-cats who are either expecting kits or are actively caring for their own. This rank is not merely a functional role but is imbued with deep spiritual significance. A she-cat who becomes a Blessed is often viewed as having received a divine favour from StarClan, as it is believed that only by the will of StarClan are these she-cats blessed with the gift of motherhood. Consequently, Blesseds are highly esteemed by the Clan, embodying the Clan’s reverence for the sacred cycle of life and the belief that StarClan’s will is directly intertwined with their role in nurturing the next generation.

In addition to those who are pregnant or nursing, the rank of Blessed can also extend to she-cats who, while not bearing kits of their own, choose to assist and support other Blesseds in the nursery. This selfless dedication to helping raise and care for the Clan’s young reinforces the communal aspect of Clan life, where the well-being of the young is a shared responsibility.

Regardless of their personal situation, Blesseds are honored for their role in ensuring the future of the Clan, and their position is seen as a testament to StarClan’s blessing and the importance of fertility and nurturing within the Clan’s spiritual and social structure. The respect afforded to Blesseds underscores the Clan’s deep connection to their ancestors and the spiritual significance they place on the roles that ensure the continuity and growth of their community.

Sacred

The rank of Sacred refers to kits or kittens who are younger than six moons old within the Clan. These young ones hold a special status and are deeply revered by all Clan members, who regard them as divine gifts from StarClan. The reverence for Sacreds stems from the belief that their arrival is a direct blessing from the ancestors, and as such, they are afforded protection and care by every member of the Clan. Their presence is seen as a symbol of StarClan's favor and the continuation of the Clan's lineage and traditions.

Despite their significant status, Sacreds are typically unaware of the weight of their importance in Clan life due to their young age. The Clan places a great emphasis on ensuring their safety and well-being, viewing their nurturing as both a duty and an honor.

The loss of a Sacred, whether through stillbirth or miscarriage, is considered a profound tragedy and a serious omen from StarClan. Such events are deeply mourned, and although the occurrence is often interpreted as a sign or message from the spiritual realm, no Seer, Prophet, or Shaman has ever formally sought to clarify the meaning of these omens with StarClan. The interpretations surrounding these losses are left to the Clan’s collective beliefs and emotional responses, reflecting their deep spiritual connection and the significance they place on the lives of their youngest members.

AGE WITHIN THE WARRIOR CLANS

Moons

Being the Warrior equivalent to months, I prefer to use this concept of aging to refer to cats under a year, twelve moons, old. It makes aging a lot simpler to understand once the cats get older, as surely counting the seasons that pass is easier than counting every moon that passes.

Seasons

Using the number of a specific season passing to count a cat's age is done to simplify the work of a Scholar when noting a cat's age at time of death or some other important aspect of the cat's life. It also makes aging relatively easier for me to work out, as well. The season chosen to age a specific cat against is done so by choosing whichever season they were born in, for example: a cat who was born in winter would age 1 winter every time winter passes. It is the same for every season. This version of aging is only used once a cat has passed twelve moons old.

CEREMONIES AND RITUALS

The Blessing Ceremony

The Blessing Ceremony is a significant and intimate rite performed by the Shaman and the High Saint when a Blessed she-cat gives birth to her kits. This ceremony marks a momentous occasion, celebrating the arrival of new life and affirming the sacred bond between the Clan, StarClan, and the newborns. The ceremony is held with great reverence, underscoring the importance of the Blessed’s role in continuing the Clan’s lineage and fulfilling what is believed to be a divine will.

During the Blessing Ceremony, the Shaman and High Saint conduct a series of rituals designed to honor the newborn Sacreds and ensure their well-being. The Shaman may perform prayers or chants to invoke the protection and guidance of StarClan, while the High Saint, as the Clan's leader, blesses the Sacreds with a special ceremony that often includes ceremonial markings or offerings to symbolize the Clan’s acceptance and hopes for the new lives. The ceremony is attended by key Clan members, including other Blesseds, who gather to witness and celebrate the event. This rite not only serves to bless the new kits but also reinforces the Clan's spiritual and communal values, highlighting the interconnectedness of life and the divine favor believed to be bestowed upon the Clan.

The Naming Ceremony

The Naming Ceremony is a significant rite in Clan tradition with two distinct versions, each marking important milestones in the lives of Clan members.

The first version of the Naming Ceremony occurs when an Apprentice reaches the end of their training and is ready to assume their role as a full-fledged member of the Clan. This ceremony represents the culmination of the Apprentice's journey from youth to maturity and their readiness to take on the responsibilities of a Warrior or other designated role within the Clan. During this ceremony, the Apprentice is formally given their adult name, signifying their transition from an Apprentice to a recognized and respected member of the Clan. The ceremony is often a communal event, celebrated with the presence of other Clan members who witness and honor the new name, marking the Apprentice's official acceptance into the Clan's ranks.

The second version of the Naming Ceremony takes place in conjunction with the Blessing Ceremony, celebrating the birth of new kits by a Blessed she-cat. In this version, the ceremony is dedicated to the naming of the newborn kits. The Blessed has the honour of choosing the names for her kits, which are then presented in the ceremony. The Shaman plays a crucial role in this version, ensuring that the chosen names are recognized and blessed by StarClan. This dual ceremony serves to both celebrate the arrival of new life and integrate these new members into the spiritual and social fabric of the Clan. It symbolizes the Clan's commitment to honoring the divine connection and continuity of their lineage, with the Shaman’s role reinforcing the belief that the names are spiritually significant and protected by StarClan.

The Honouring Ritual

The Honouring Ritual is a significant ceremony led by the High Saint before the entire Clan to recognize and celebrate the exceptional achievements of individual members. This ritual acknowledges various accomplishments, from reaching notable ages and completing challenging tasks to receiving scars in combat. It is a formal event where the High Saint highlights the contributions and milestones of the honoured cats, emphasizing their impact on the Clan.

The ceremony serves to publicly honour and celebrate these achievements, reinforcing the values of courage, dedication, and service within the Clan. By recognizing the efforts of its members, the Honouring Ritual fosters a sense of pride and unity, reinforcing communal bonds and upholding the Clan’s traditions.

The Leadership Rite

The Leadership Rite is a sacred and pivotal ceremony that marks the elevation of a cat to the position of High Saint, the leader of the Clan, who is chosen by StarClan. This important rite is conducted during a full moon, symbolizing the alignment of the Clan's spiritual and temporal realms. The ceremony is overseen by the Shaman, who guides the chosen cat through this profound transition, ensuring that the sacred aspects of the rite are honored.

During the Leadership Rite, the cat receiving this prestigious role is bestowed with nine lives, each representing a distinct personality trait. These traits are intended to shape and influence the High Saint's leadership, guiding their actions and decisions throughout their time in office. The nine lives symbolize not only a divine favor but also the diverse qualities that the High Saint must embody and cultivate to effectively lead and inspire the Clan.

The new High Saint also receives a new name with the suffix -star, signifying their elevated status and connection to the Clan's spiritual heritage. This ceremony is not only a formal transition but also a spiritual reaffirmation of the High Saint’s role as the Clan’s leader and the embodiment of its values and traditions.

The Burial Ritual

Before the Burial Ceremony takes place, the deceased Clan cat’s body is carefully transported to the center of the camp, where it is laid out for the Clan to pay their respects. Family members, close friends, and the cat’s Mentor or Apprentice gather around the body, keeping vigil through the night. This period of reflection and mourning allows Clanmates to share final words, offer comfort, and honor the life of their fallen companion. This communal gathering provides a time for personal farewells and emotional closure before the formal burial rituals begin.

The Burial Ceremony itself is a solemn and sacred event. The Shaman, with the assistance of the deceased’s loved ones, prepares the resting place for the body by encircling it with a row of carefully placed stones. This arrangement includes two symbolic gates: one for the living to pass through and another for the departed’s soul, signifying the transition between the mortal world and the afterlife. As the final ritual, the Shaman speaks words of blessing and guidance, invoking the favor of StarClan to ensure the departed’s soul is gently guided towards its eternal resting place in the spiritual realm. The ceremony serves both as a final act of respect and as a spiritual send-off, aiming to honor the deceased and facilitate their journey to StarClan.

[ergodyke]

Lesbian Subaru ads from the mid 90s/early 2000s

[kuramirocket]

Code Four

Prey is killed only to be eaten. Give thanks to Starclan for its life.

When you eat, whom do you thank for your food? It was the clear-sighted leadership of Lilystar of Shadowclan, moons ago, that taught us to respect our prey and helped us to see how much we owe our warrior ancestors for training us and bringing us to a place where we can live like this.

- Code of the Clans by Erin Hunter

[mauve-stingers]

grayfire divorce arc makes me sad so I drew them sharing freshkill at the border

[undead-cypress]

Strohl and Hulkenberg are so funny to me as a duo. They're the exact same type of people - they NEED to pledge their life to a liege or they'll start ripping up your couch like an understimulated shepherd dog. However they go about it in polar opposite directions. (Early-game story spoilers ahead, mid-game gameplay spoilers) Hulkenberg had her life purpose taken away years back and comes to realize hyperfocusing probably isn't the optimal way to go about it, so she expands her horizons to do her duty better. Strohl had no will to live until joining the assassination plot, and then it fails so bad he resolves to hyperfocus so hard the classes he unlocks can only do one thing, critical slash damage really really well

Hulkenberg is the formal knightly one but she delights in mucking around and would rather fist fight people than think. But then she demolishes you in chess and teaches you tactics while Strohl, the familiar casual guy who's a lot more stategically minded is the one always sharpening a sword and implying if anything happened to you, seppuku may be on the table - Gallica this is so scary play encounter music - my courage has increased

It all clicked when I saw their third tier classes are paladin/dark knight and samurai. Ohhhh you guys are henchmen. You wanna be henchmen so bad. They're the exact same kinda guy but are completely baffled by everything the other guy does. They have everything in common and nothing in common. They both think they're the normal one of the group. They have completely different ideas about how to best do their jobs but they simply must beat the shit out of each other on the deck daily or else they might have to actually go to therapy. I need an early 2000s team up/roadtrip action movie with these two where Will is faking being kidnapped to draw out the bad guys but Gallica didn't tell Strohl and Hulkenberg because their bad acting would immediately give it away and they proceed to absolutely demolish the metaphorical furniture of the house of Euchronia looking for the world's most specialest lil' captain. Do you see my vision 🤌

[thunderc1an]

Sol 𖤓°⋆.ೃ࿔*:･

[thunders-warcats-stuff]

warrior code question

What are some ways you (authors and worldbuilders) have changed or rearranged the warrior code to suit your AUs and rewrites? What are some healer's or specific role codes you've come up with?

[bruciemilf]

“Jason would be a firebender” “Jason would be an earthbender” Jason would be a kyoshi warrior, you indefensible fools

[snowyfrostshadows]

So.

We went from this for Starclan Cats:

To.

This:

Biggest downgrade of my life.

[thunderc1an]

Fallen Leaves

[rookflower]

really like hollyleaf as a character but am super uninterested in any take on her that views her obsession with the warrior code as a virtue and not as a flaw

[dovewingkinnie]

was in the behind the codes mood waahahahah (stop me from drawing it so much 😭😭) i turned them into cats. evil au by @skeletoninthemelonland !!

[stellaclaw]

i think part of the reason i love hollyleaf but really hate her comeback is because she was a fascinating look into a downward spiral from expectations. she didnt kill ashfur because she was a girlboss or because he was threatening her. she killed him because he knew the truth, and if he said it, that would make it real. in some fucked up way, if he died, maybe that truth would die with him and she could go back to the happy lie.

but she couldnt. because killing him didnt change the truth. and learning just how far it went broke her so utterly because by the laws she had been raised by, she was an abomination twice over. the prophecy didnt matter anymore, her family didnt matter anymore, because hollyleaf had sworn herself to the culture of the clans, of SERVING her clan (because the prophey was service, always to make herself the greatest warrior of thunderclan), and how could she do that when her very existence spat in the face of their laws?

hollyleaf thought she had lost everything, and the ironic part is that… she really didnt? she was still firestars grandaughter. she still came from a grand legacy, was still a notably skilled, almost prodigal warrior, was decently liked and experienced, still had a family that loved her. she had everything a clan culture would want, but she broke their laws by existing, and so everything else meant nothing and everybody involved had to be punished.

so its kind of a slap in the face to have her come back and her redemption being to “let the warrior code rule our hearts” when her tale was a cautionary one of what happens when you allow the law to color your perception of the world and the value of people. it addresses the murder without the motivation, or any of her other crimes, her resentful bigotry towards the woman who raised her, her cruelty towards the mother who wanted her and loved her so badly that she was willing to forgive ATTEMPTED MURDER without an apology. all it did was absolve one (1) crime without resolving the actual conflict of the character.

[bonefall]

Yo, need some help with the BB au's warrior code (working on the wiki). Cus 1-4 are confirmed from the history post, but what order are the rest of them in??

Oh this is actually something I've been meaning to get to. I swung over to the wiki page and I see you're working with a bundle of unconnected posts, and the REALLY old first draft-- it's waaay overdue that I make an update that also contains an official addressing of some of the biggest changes that have happened since then.

I'm gonna try to fix that for you now. Here's a rough draft of BB!Warrior Code 2.0, including snappier names and new thoughts for the associated stories.

I'm also trying to make each commandment more... sociological. In contrast to canon's code, I want these to be more open to interpretation, but also gesture at deeper social values that Clan cats have.

After all, it's the Warrior Code. I've always felt like it should have a similar vibe to chivalry or bushido, y'know? Not just a list of laws, but a "guide" to living as an honorable warrior.

(and, like chivalry and bushido, it's much less "inherently" noble than it seems, easily twisted into something destructive and only protecting other people in your caste.)

The plan here is that I'm going to post this in a rough state so you can get it on the Wiki, AND everyone can toss up input on this. When I feel satisfied, I'm gonna hit up Trout to make official Clanmew translations, and then I'm going to work with one/some of the artists in my spreadsheet to make this its own post.

So, the next time you see this will likely be a lot cleaner and have revisions.

IN SHORT:

Law of the Border "A Clan is the exclusive ruler of its domain; a Star is the exclusive ruler of its Clan. Borders are set to mark this land. To trespass is to offend the stars."

Law of Honor "An honorable warrior does not need to kill to win their battles, except when the foe is dishonorable or it is necessary for self-defense."

Law of the Deputy "The Star is to choose a responsible Deputy to rule alongside them who shall carry the starlight after their death. A Clan must never go past moonhigh without a Deputy appointed."

Law of Loyalty "Defend your Clan, even with your life. No love for an outsider shall outweigh your loyalty to your Clan."

Law of Priority / Prey Priority Privilege "An honorable warrior would starve before letting those they protect go hungry."

Law of Grace "StarClan is to be thanked for what it provides. To waste their blessings or blaspheme their light is treason against the Stars."

Law of Seasons "A kitten must see two seasons before it can become an apprentice. An apprentice must train for two seasons before it can become a warrior. A warrior should handle all four seasons alone before becoming a mentor."

Law of the Challenge / Right to Challenge "All warriors who bare a blessed name from StarClan are entitled to defend their honor. The right to challenge, or to accept a challenge in turn, shall not be infringed upon without reason."

Law of the Wild "A warrior rejects the soft life of a kittypet."

Law of the Cleric's Vow "A cleric who takes a mate or has kittens has violated their sacred vow, and must have their privilege of being StarClan's herald revoked."

Law of the Gathering / Full Moon Truce "Under the light of the full moon, all Clans shall send representatives to the Gathering to hear the news of the leaders. There will be a truce that lasts from sundown to sunrise, and attendance is a privilege."

Law of the First Tasks "Before an apprentice can receive their holy name by the power vested in their Star, first they must complete three sacred tasks; a warrior's assessment, a complete vigil, and a pilgrimage."

Law of the Leader's Right / Dalestar's Law / The Leader's Rights "By the power of the Star they carry, the word of a leader shall be recognized as the warrior code."

Law of the Three Kittens / Darkstar's Law / The Queen's Rights "No action, inaction, or accusation may ever allow a kit to be put in danger, no matter what Clan their parents were from. All queens shall have the right to not reveal the origin of their litter, even under suspicion of codebreaking."

Law of the Lake "Every Clan has the right to fight for its honor and independence, but the Clans of the lake shall never allow another to suffer or collapse. In dire times, all the cats of the lake understand their ancestral command; unite or die."

Law of Love / Bristlefrost's Law "If a cat wishes to walk alongside the warrior of another Clan, their beloved may ask their Star to issue a challenge to prove their new loyalty. If this challenge is overcome, their love shall be known as StarClan's will."

Law of Kickum Buttocks / Leader-B-Gone "girl help im still figuring out how I'm going to rewrite the new law about kicking out leaders. It is too long and too hyperspecific. There's absolutely no way for it to get legitimately used in canon, let alone be a relevant plot point."

If a previous post contradicts this one, assume this one overrules it. You can feel free to ask about it though! There's probably a reason I changed it, and I'll hear you out if you think an older version was stronger.

The Borbior Bode. I mean the BB!Warrior Code.

(Under the cut)

COMMANDMENT 1: Law of the Border "A Clan is the exclusive ruler of its domain; a Star is the exclusive ruler of its Clan. Borders are set to mark this land. To trespass is to offend the stars."

The legend goes that after the carnage of the First Battle, StarClan granted a fragment of a star to the leaders of the five Clans. This piece of a star is what legitimizes their right to the land they rule, so the leader is technically the owner of the Clan's domain and has authority over it.

In practice, this means that Clan leaders have the right to claim and control everything that is "part of their land," their domain. This usually refers to prey, but also includes herbs, goods, and even warriors with a holy, StarClan-ordained name that swear fealty to them.

Most often, this is the law that is cited to justify territory expansions, by changing borders. It also tends to come up in "economic" circumstances. When Onestar launched an embargo against ShadowClan during the Yellowcough Epidemic preventing mullein from being brought to them, he cited this law, because that herb only grows in WindClan moorland.

The intent behind this commandment is VERY different from its modern use. There were originally just two "commandments," this one and the Law of Honor, and it was essentially serving the purpose that later laws (namely 6, 8, 10 and 13) would more explicitly outline. Its purpose wasn't to put absolute power over territory into the paws of a leader, but to command the Clans to respect each other's autonomy.

In fact, the wording is weird to reflect that.

In Clanmew, the verb here for "trespass" is meant in the sense of "to disrespect," and which "stars" are being offended is unclear. It was originally meant religiously-- the angry ancestors who halted the First Battle would be offended if the Clans treated each other poorly. Over time, "the stars" came to be interpreted as offending the leader of the Clan, as in "issuing a challenge to them."

But its modern interpretation is all that matters, now. And it's widely accepted to mean "Leader owns everything in its Clan's borders, fight them if you don't like that."

COMMANDMENT 2: Law of Honor "An honorable warrior does not need to kill to win their battles, except when the foe is dishonorable or it is necessary for self-defense."

I'm considering rewording this one in a small but significant way because I have plans to play with the "dishonorable foe" clause. The ideologies of Fire Alone and Thistle Law clash over the philosophical idea of the Code's protection applying to outsiders at all, so I realized that I don't need to have "unless they are outside of the code" written into any specific commandment.

So, instead, this version would mention dishonorability. To invoke this commandment to kill is always an accusation, and to accept that it was used against your loved one means admitting they were "dishonorable." To be outside of the code, to be unable to contribute, or to be HalfClan could mean you're inherently dishonorable... if someone like Tigerstar wants an excuse to hurt you.

Unsure, though. I do like the wording of the canon commandment, "unless they are outside of the warrior code or it is necessary for self-defense." I do like the way that it says, right away, that they don't see outsider cats as being protected by this law. I like how weaselly it is.

COMMANDMENT 3: Law of the Deputy "The Star is to choose a responsible Deputy to rule alongside them who shall carry the starlight after their death. A Clan must never go past moonhigh without a Deputy appointed."

Developed as a result of the events of Riverstar's Heir. When King Riverstar passed away with the inheritance of the River Kingdom unclear, his oldest living biological son stepped forward to claim his "birthright." The son decided to throw a celebration before going to claim his lives, not knowing that there was a saboteur prepared to slip poison into his prey.

The cat who would have been considered Riverstar's "deputy" by modern standards, Flowers Come First, desperately tried to keep the Kingdom together as other cats tried to carve out claims to the leaderless land. After dozens were killed and injured in a civil conflict (sometimes called The Second Battle), the ShadowClan Cleric, Redscar, was called in as a mediator to determine the rightful leader.

But, before he determined that Flowerstar would lead next, it was ensured that all of the Clans would come together to accept this as a new law. To prevent this kind of succession crisis from ever occurring again.

(BB!ASC LOOMS IN THE DISTANCE)

This commandment was technically the first "addition" to the law, but at the time, it was considered the "birth" of the Warrior Code. Before this, it was more of a pair of principles from StarClan.

As a note; in the Clanmew, "Responsible" Deputy implies a warrior who has trained an apprentice or has raised children. I'm unsure if linguistic drift now means that HAS to be an apprentice or not, but there are probably historic cases where a Mi with a ton of grown kittens took power.

COMMANDMENT 4: Law of Loyalty "Defend your Clan, even with your life. No love for an outsider shall outweigh your loyalty to your Clan."

This law was famously introduced after Ryewhisker gave his life to defend his mate, Cloudberry, in a battle between their Clans. It's usually considered the first proper "addition" to the Warrior Code, but a real debate about if 3 or 4 is the first "amendment" would probably be considered a sort of pedantic argument by most.

(side funfact; In Clanmew there's a term for that. It's called a "Shineless Fight," or a "matte match." Basically a silly battle that doesn't invite attention from StarClan.)

Its ratification came even in spite of Cloudberry's heated opposition to it. The ancient practice of Kitten Stealing was born from this commandment, justified by ancient actions taken by Skystar during the Dawn Era. Cloudberry watched her kittens grow, inheriting a world far worse than the one she'd loved Ryewhisker in.

When she was reunited with her mate in death, they refused to be part of a StarClan cruel enough to support and approve of a law written to condemn their love. Without a moment's hesitation, the lovers fled into the Place of No Stars together, vowing that they would not rest in peace until the evil commandment was overturned.

They do even more than just that, too.

When cross-Clan mates need protection from discovery, the lovers will hide them from watchful eyes under the cover of yew branches. If the stars burn brightly to document the sins of forbidden friends, Cloudberry will cool them with rain while Ryewhisker bends the grass to guide them to safety. They are demons acting as guardian angels, for those who God has abandoned.

...Also, author's note, I've done rewording to this law. I'm trying to make sure all types of love (platonic, romantic, familial, plus the clan culture concepts for these) are equally important narratively. It's both something I care about as an artist, and also something I think makes the story better.

DIVERSITY WIN! Your queerplatonic cross-clan relationship is equally treasonous!

On that note, I also cut the "reassurance" from the law entirely. The canon law says "you may have friendships, but be careful because you might meet them in battle," to imply it's fine to just be friendly, but I feel like it fits BB better to just not explicitly spell that out. I generally think it's a better idea to stress how individuals interpret the law.

COMMANDMENT 5: Law of Priority "An honorable warrior would starve before letting those they protect go hungry."

In Clanmew, the wording will be closer to this; "The true warrior Wants before those they protect would Need," which means that the warrior's desires go unfulfilled if their "charges" have unmet needs. It applies very broadly to almost anything-- food, medicine, rest, tools, etc. It's not just about hunger, but it's been translated in a way to communicate its spirit to an English-speaking audience.

This does typically mean that kittens, elders, and the Cleric eat first, but it's also one of the laws that particularly noble warriors would repeat to themselves as a mantra. It stresses self-sacrifice in service of the weak. On the flip side, a more authoritarian cat can easily twist this code to accuse someone else of being dishonorable, if they're "taking" too much.

Full disclosure, this one's still pretty big WIP material. I haven't made a lot of progress on the origin story of this one, or what its sociological impacts were.

In fact, laws 5, 6, and 7 are WIP territory. They might get shuffled in order or reworded in the future, though their "spirit" is going to stay the same.

What I DO know about the Law of Priority's backstory is that it's probably not going to be born from a battle on Sunningrocks. Most of the canon equivalent law from COTC is actually going to get repurposed into BB!Darkstar's Commandment, and Commandment 11 by proxy. It's more likely I'll take a bunch of the spare ancient warriors and come up with some original big disaster that spurred it on.

COMMANDMENT 6: Law of Grace "StarClan is to be thanked for what it provides. To waste their blessings or blaspheme their light is treason against the Stars."

Also known as Dovestar's Law. Possibly one of the most prone to being interpreted in different lights between leaders. It's not a law explicitly requiring belief, but it does command religious performance from all Clan cats.

...which, functionally, does mean that cats like Cloudtail and Mothwing have always been pressured into taking part in rituals they don't want to be part of.

For example, when prey is killed, Cloudtail gets offended looks when he doesn't send a prayer to StarClan. If it wasn't for Ferncloud and Elderberry being so close to him, he might have been denied getting Ashpaw as an apprentice due to a refusal to swear a religious oath. Worse, if Bluestar hadn't been leader at the time, not pressing his nose to the Moonstone might have prevented him from becoming a warrior at all.

(as a personal note, as an atheist, ive always found the way that canon dances around acknowledging the destructive aspects of organized religion EXTREMELY frustrating. Especially in COTC, where it's mentioned that Dovestar wanted to codify a religious commandment but failed, and Leafpool smugly chuckles at the leader for being so surprised. It felt like such a "writer's mouthpiece" moment. girl it's a cult in the woods. you wrote scourge as an evil atheist. your cats have catholic guilt, just own it)

The second most important legal use of this law is to punish contact with the spirits of demons-- residents of the Place of No Stars. There are several forbidden techniques for utilizing the power of these spirits, namely "Channeling," the direct summoning of a spirit (as opposed to "Invoking," which is when StarClan as an entity is used as an "operator" to get in touch with an angel in its ranks).

Casually this is referred to as "witchcraft" or "forbidden magic."

But, in addition to being a religious law, it is also a law against overhunting and waste. Especially of "blessed" animals, such as bats and songbirds, which are considered downright sinful to kill. If you knowingly destroy beautiful things without a good reason, "wasting" a blessing, it's not JUST a sin, but a crime.

It's possibly one of the most relevant laws in the day-to-day lives of warriors. ShadowClan cats in particular take this VERY literally, believing that they should also try to salvage a use from ALL things they kill. Including badgers.

COMMANDMENT 7: Law of Seasons "A kitten must see two seasons before it can become an apprentice. An apprentice must train for two seasons before it can become a warrior. A warrior should handle all four seasons alone before becoming a mentor."

This commandment was worded and introduced by Daisytail, rallying all the parents of the Clans, to protect young cats from two battle hungry leaders who were foisting fights and responsibilities on those who physically could not be ready.

This story won't change much from its COTC equivalent, besides maybe adding an extra detail that young apprentices were being given to young warriors, less than two years old. A very young warrior might had never handled the season they're now training an apprentice in, leading to things like;

Being unable to identify thin ice

Not knowing how cold temperatures change how scent works

Unfamiliarity with hunting in snowy conditions

Lack of education on wintertime animal behavior

Ultimately though, the point of this law is simply to codify "minimums" of the age brackets. Most cats train longer than that, and they are strictly grouped socially.

In fact, because of the fact these cats age so rapidly during their first year and then "slow down" afterwards, "rank" is a LOT more important socially than chronological age.

As an example, Reedwhisker has a nightmarish, two-year-long apprenticeship due to mentor abuse. He was considered an apprentice in age that entire time. Having an extended mentorship is literally like being forced to stay a teenager. This is as hellish as it sounds.

Overall though, for BB, this commandment is going to be a lot more relevant for the mentor/apprentice aspects instead of "early apprentice" infractions. Even the most evil, short-sighted leader can realize that getting kids killed before they turn into adult soldiers is self-defeating.

One of the more notorious changes of BB is the fact Brokenstar isn't going to be using child soldiers. What he DOES do is approve of Runningnose's plan to murder a blind kitten so that they can frame Shroompelt for it, exiling her as Yellowfang and FINALLY getting her out of the way so they can commit a massacre against WindClan.

(still evil just a different kind of evil <3)

I've been really wishy-washy on what happened with Badgerfang specifically, because I didn't want to eliminate the tragic story beat of a young life being wasted. But I've finally decided what I'm going to do. Badgerfang was just a fresh apprentice, nothing special, nothing "illegal," just like all of the other adolescents who took part in that battle.

I don't think he should have to be legally too young for it to be absolutely horrific that a kid was killed during the invasion of someone else's home. He was the equivalent of a 13-year-old and he was gored by someone who was confused and terrified in the middle of the night, bleeding to death in his uncle's paws.

For Flintfang, in that moment, it has nothing to do with recommitting himself to the "warrior code," but realizing that the only way this madness stops is if someone puts an end to it.

COMMANDMENT 8: Law of the Challenge "All warriors who bare a blessed name from StarClan are entitled to defend their honor. The right to challenge, or to accept a challenge in turn, shall not be infringed upon without reason."

Attempting to stop a war from breaking out between ThunderClan and WindClan, the ancient leader Morningstar prevented his warriors from fighting back against Rabbitstar's border transgressions. Furious and offended that they could not prove themselves in battle, his cats came to resent him. After skirmish and sickness lead to the "honorless" death of several cats including his deputy, the Cleric, Pearnose, lead a revolt against him.

Morningstar was branded a coward by StarClan, deemed unworthy of joining their ranks and sent to the Place of No Stars to wallow in his misery. Afterwards, Pearstar gained her nine lives, beloved by ThunderClan and blessed by StarClan, and her decree was made into code.

This law is being invoked when a warrior mentions their "right to challenge." As a quirk of the wording, it's also widely accepted that an official challenge involves saying your opponent's full name, to get the attention of StarClan.

"without reason" is another one of those little clauses that gives a leader wiggle room when they need it. Legitimate "reason" to cancel a challenge includes the full moon truce, promise to allow the battle at a more appropriate date, or the fight being shineless or dishonorable to begin with. Still, leaders are rarely eager to get compared to Morningstar, so there's a lot of social pressure to not infringe the right.

The Clans culturally value the idea that "might makes right," and this commandment is both a result of, and a contributor to it. A LOT of small-scale quibbles over aspects of the Warrior Code end up being resolved by an invocation of the Right to Challenge, because trying to argue with a warrior that they're wrong about how they interpreted the code is easily interpreted as an attack on their honor.

COMMANDMENT 9: Law of the Wild "A warrior rejects the soft life of a kittypet."

During the destruction of SkyClan's historic territory in the White Hart Woods, Flystar witnessed many of his warriors turning to humans and the town to live double lives. In response, he started very strictly enforcing the warrior code, believing that if his Clan lived more piously, this would stop the destruction.

it did not work. Old Man Flystar died and left Cloudstar as a young leader, desperately keeping SkyClan together in its exile. Even death did not stop him from honoring his vow.

...But the Forest Four did not care. The amendment that Flystar suggested for the warrior code was born from his need to discourage his warriors from leaving, but it was approved because of shared cultural hatred for human beings. The destruction of SkyClan's territory just made an existing problem much, much worse.

During the Crusade Era, this law was invoked to justify violent invasions into Chelford. During other eras, it makes cats hesitate to take food from humans, or even interact with kittypets at all.

It's also a very weird translation; in Clanmew, this is the "Law of the Unbunched Scruff." It could also be translated as "Law of the Uncollared Neck" or "Law of a Free Nape." It's referring to the back of the neck being unburdened by a collar, but it's also REALLY common for little kits to learn about this law and immediately start using it to protest their Mi carrying them back to the nest for bedtime.

This was also the last law to be introduced before SkyClan's exile! Modern SkyClan has complicated feelings on if this one should be respected as part of their "version" of the code.

ALSO;

I've so far kept it as short and simple as canon, but I'm thinking of making it longer to match the others. I can't find the right words for it, though-- something about "A warrior rejects the soft life of a kittypet, and resists the deceitful temptation of humans" or "and remains vigilant for the tricks of man"

I want to capture the vibe of Flystar trying to convince his warriors that humans are liars, and any gifts they give you will actually make you weak. Part of me is trying to avoid wording the commandment in a way that could result in people thinking Firepaw himself is a "trick of man," but maybe I should just lean into it instead.

COMMANDMENT 10: Law of the Cleric's Vow "A cleric who takes a mate or has kittens has violated their sacred vow, and must have their privilege of being StarClan's herald revoked."

Moth Flight did not create the vow to be ratified as code. It was a desperate, painful oath she made her four kittens make before they were taken away from her to become the first Clerics of the other Clans.

She made them promise her that they would not have children of their own who would be ripped away from them. It was a mother's plea, to spare them from the pain she was experiencing, to encourage them to value medicine over connections to a Clan that stole them, and to punish the Clans for treating their bloodline like something that would produce prophets like livestock.

Their gifts would die with them, and all future Clerics would be trained, not born. The Cleric's Vow was a non-binding tradition for generations, until the exile of SkyClan.

Larkstripe, Cleric of WindClan, rallied the other Clerics into going on strike until the leaders reversed their terrible decision. Swiftstar stubbornly refused to give into this demand, even when sickness landed him on his deathbed. She remained firm, informing him that he was free to gamble with his life if he wanted to face StarClan's judgement.

His successor, Dalestar, sought a way to brutally crush the strike. So he hit Larkstripe at her one weakness-- her son, Ripplekit.

With the ringleader's reputation destroyed and her son ripped away from her and sent to ShadowClan, the other Clerics quickly folded. Dalestar got his way, and was celebrated for it.

This commandment doesn't have too many unique interpretations, though there are occasionally interesting cases where Clerics have kittens before taking their vow. While it's a "gray zone," kittens who are the child of a parent-turned-Cleric are sometimes considered cursed or unlucky.

(contrast to SkyClan where it is actually considered a plus for a Cleric to have kittens.)

COMMANDMENT 11: Law of the Full Moon "Under the light of the full moon, all Clans shall send representatives to the Gathering to hear the news of the leaders. There will be a truce that lasts from sundown to sunrise, and attendance is a privilege."

Taken from Larkstripe and raised at the belly of Birdflight, mate of the exiled Cloudstar, Ripplekit grew into Ripplemoon and became Ripplestar of ShadowClan. Spurred into action by a blight that was spreading up the now-dead fifth tree of Fourtrees, he declared war on the other Clans. "If you will not make room to fetch SkyClan home, then I will carve it out."

Before this time, the Gathering was simply a tradition, not code, but Ripplestar's deadly total war tactics recognized it as an excellent target. Attempting to bring a swift end to his bloody campaign, he planned an attack that would surely have many innocent casualties.

However, he was betrayed by his adopted brother; Gorseclaw. The other Clans were prepared for his attack, bringing nothing but warriors to the Gathering. In fury at Ripplestar's audacity, having lost the SkyClan ancestors who would have supported these actions, StarClan struck the base of the blighted tree with lightning. The falling trunk crushed Ripplestar against the Highrock and snapped the oak in two distinct places; at the base, and in the middle.

The Z-shaped cracks would be seen again many years later, as Brokenstar's tail. The guardian spirit of SkyClan, incarnated in the flesh through a birth from a Cleric, furious and manifest.

But, before that time, there was an immediate "Clan Pride Tide" that washed over the culture of those who won. The Law of the Full Moon was the first of three additional Commandments born from Dalestar and his peers during this time.

There are three significant "rules" to Gatherings that were established by this law;

The leader may arbitrarily exclude any cat they don't want to bring. Before this commandment, you could just go. Now, the most freedom you have is your ability to linger longer for the Aftergathering.

It is mandatory to completely listen to the "opening speeches" of Gatherings before you're allowed to mingle. Even if grandma mistystar is going off on a tangent again

The truce is now enforceable. It was previously just a taboo-- scuffles would break out now and then, and there was the occasional playfighting match. Now, you can't even get heated at another cat without people getting uncomfortable.

COMMANDMENT 12: Law of the First Tasks "Before an apprentice can receive their holy name by the power vested in their Star, first they must complete three sacred tasks; a warrior's assessment, a complete vigil, and a pilgrimage."

The second law to come from the post-Ripplestar tide was more codification of traditions, to "instill a sense of pride and honor into young warriors," but these were also a sneaky way to weed out dissidents.

Apprentices would typically do these tasks naturally as part of their rite of passage, but now, if ANY of the cats involved in this process did not like you or your mentor, they could hurt you by delaying them. A leader could choose not to bring you with them to the Moonstone. They could force you to re-do the vigil for making a noise. A vindictive mentor could keep flunking your assessment for stupid reasons because she hates you.

Bad mentors "poorly preparing" an apprentice they have a duty to guide into adulthood is good grounds for punishment. It's a massive dishonor to have an apprentice taken from you. Of course, this all depends on the Clan "taking the side" of the tormentor.

So, this is rarely used for political reasons in more recent eras, because of that potential collateral reputation hit. Making an apprentice's right of passage difficult for no reason tends to make you unpopular with that apprentice's friends, family, mentor, and peers-- but it served its purpose, back then.

Nowadays it's just celebrated as a part of Clan traditions. The First Tasks are much older than the Commandment, but most cats don't think so hard about history that they notice it's strange they got codified during this era.

(Plus, this commandment is popular. Apprentices and their families feel cheated if these first tasks are glossed over.)

COMMANDMENT 13: Law of the Leader's Right "By the power of the Star they carry, the word of a leader shall be recognized as the warrior code."

The big, bad one. Also called Dalestar's Commandment.

With this decree, the Clan leaders announced an exile of all the cats who had been revealed to support Ripplestar. ShadowClan's next leader, Marshstar, was made to deal with an immediate refugee crisis on top of overseeing the injuries of all the cats who fought at that Gathering.

It's the sort of law that would be considered a massive mistake within a few generations, but by that time, it was too entrenched to remove. The leaders had seized power over anything that could legally challenge them-- the Code, their Clerics, and their warriors in turn.

Only the rule of the Impostor would cause this part of the code to be altered, but not before the Clans nearly collapsed under his tyranny.

Future generations would look back at the fallout of Ripplestar's rebellion, and the following tide of Clan pride, and generally reach a consensus; this was the birth of the ideas which would become known as Thistle Law. Maybe it wasn't their origin, and contributing thoughts had existed for a long time beforehand, but this was the watershed moment for what would develop into modern Clan politics.

COMMANDMENT 14: Law of the Three Kittens "No action, inaction, or accusation may ever allow a kit to be put in danger, no matter what Clan their parents were from. All queens shall have the right to not reveal the origin of their litter, even under suspicion of codebreaking."

Famously referred to as Darkstar's Commandment, and cited as the Queen's Rights. Put a decisive end to the barbaric practice of Kitten Stealing. Drafted, fought for, and codified in honor of Mapleshade's three children who drowned in the swollen river.

StarClan was so furious at the sheer amount of senseless death in one season that they blasted Darkstar with lightning to drag her into StarClan to witness the Trials of those who had died. They made her watch as Ravenwing, Frecklewish, Appledusk, AND Mapleshade were all damned to the Dark Forest, and bellowed that her and Oakstar would fix it or suffer the same fate.

She listened and proposed this law. Oakstar did not, and fought against its implementation. He tried to make up for this by beginning the Crusades, but this wasn't enough to "atone" for his disobedience.

Darkstar ruled that the birth of innocent kits shall could never be used as evidence of guilt, because of the fact it would inevitably put those same kittens in danger.

It was StarClan's privilege alone to judge if the behavior that lead to the conception of those kittens was codebreaking or not. Flawed mortals, such as Mapleshade who lied to keep her kittens safe and only endangered them through panic, and Oakstar who exiled children into the rain because of personal offense leading to bias, could not be trusted to be objective about this.

That said-- the Queen's Rights are a very complicated and particular topic. They exist to protect the kitten's birth from being used as evidence; they do NOT protect the family from any consequence of their actions. There are lots of ways for the Queen's Rights to be voided.

If the kids find out their parentage and reveal it, it's void. If a cat who recently gave birth shows the kits are theirs, it's void. If you let it slip that you acquired the kitten from your sister who wants you to raise it as a Clan cat, it's void.

And, no, you can't even safely talk to your Cleric. They are within their full rights to reveal it, too. There is no Cat HIPAA. Whoever you trust with this information had BETTER BE someone you trust with your life, because they might be!

Cats who lean towards Fire Alone think that the Queen's Rights don't go far enough. Cats who lean towards Thistle Law are obsessed with the contradictions.

COMMANDMENT 15: Law of the Lake "Every Clan has the right to defend its independence and to fight for its honor, but the Clans of the lake shall never allow another to suffer or collapse. In dire times, all the cats of the lake understand their ancestral command; unite or die."

First proposed in response to the disastrous lack of response that allowed the rise of the Kin, a deadly Yellowcough outbreak, and the eventual collapse of ShadowClan, this commandment was approved without contest when SkyClan found its way to the Lake.

It's both a promise to SkyClan that what happened to them will never happen again, AND a somber acknowledgement that what happened to ShadowClan was avoidable if they'd only intervened sooner. Heartstar takes this commandment VERY seriously.

Too seriously, many add. Perhaps more out of ambition than compassion. But she doesn't care-- they weren't the ones suffocating in their own lungs watching their family die, as Onestar sat on a hill of medicine across the lake, glowering. Perhaps they should take it more seriously.

COMMANDMENT 16: Law of the Lovers / Bristlefrost's Law "If a cat wishes to walk alongside the warrior of another Clan, their beloved may ask their Star to issue a challenge to prove their new loyalty. If this challenge is overcome, their love shall be known as StarClan's will."

AKA Bristlefrost's Law, created in her honor after sacrificing her Afterlife to barrel Ashfur out of the sky, burning up in orbit.

In life, Bristlefrost was innocently meeting with Rootspring. Two warriors with a small crush, breaking the code discreetly during a time of increasing tension. When Bramblestar's impostor caught them, he decided to make an example of the couple. Brought Bristlefrost to the Gathering, and demanded that SkyClan strongly punish Rootspring to comply with the code.

Waspstar of SkyClan, successor of Leafstar after her poisoning at Juniperclaw's tricks, refused. So the impostor lifted his claw, and sliced Bristlefrost's neck. Her body plunged from the tree, dead in an instant.

With her ghost, Rootspring joined the resistance to depose him immediately. After her sacrifice, he demanded reforms for the code and a new commandment in her honor. It was not as sweeping of a change as he wanted it to be, but with the Law of the Lovers, there was finally a mechanism to bring another cat into your own Clan.

It could have saved her, he argues. He could have taken her out of that dangerous Clan, gotten her away from the Impostor, convinced her to run.

(...the truth is, Bristlefrost would never have run from ThunderClan. Not until the bitter end. She wouldn't just die twice for her family, but even more than nine if she had the chance. but this was the leverage that Rootspring was able to use.)

AUTHOR'S NOTE: I keep going back and forth on the "love" wording of this one. On one hand, I like the idea a lot that Clan cats will have to perform friendship or love even if it isn't there to "legally" change Clans as a story device. I enjoy the idea of exploring that, and how it would be particularly messed up in an asylum scenario.

On the other hand... I'm not really using "love" in the romantic sense here, and "sponsor" is both closer to what I'm intending, AND the Clanmew version. By "beloved" I mean it equally in the sense of both an aunt and their "beloved" niece, and a lover and their traditional "beloved." But I'm not sure if that's coming across.

Is there a better word for "Sponsor" but like, in a warm and affectionate sense? Legal Buddy? Guy Who Will Vouch For Me? Sweet Cheese? Not to mention there just not being platonic words equal to "lover." The amatonormativity of the English language has harmed me once again

Law of Kickem Buttocks / Leader-B-Gone "girl help im still figuring out how I'm going to rewrite the new law about kicking out leaders. It is too long and too hyperspecific. There's absolutely no way for it to get legitimately used in canon, let alone be a relevant plot point."

I know FOR SURE that the first time this law is going to be used in BB, it is against Bramblestar in ASC. He's declining, manipulating Nightheart to use in a petty squabble against Squirrelflight, and suffered two massive blows to his reputation in both Squirrelflight's Horror and BB!TBC.

But the canon law is so specific that it's useless. Like, it may as well not even exist.

A non-deputy needs to call the vote

BOTH medcats have to agree

AANNDD you need a 75% supermajority in the Clan.

FINALLY, the other leaders, of Clans that are completely irrelevant, are asked if it's ok and ALL of them have to agree.

only THEN can all of the medcats of ALL the Clans go to StarClan, and ask if the lives can be taken away.

If the sky is cloudy then screw you. you have to wait even longer. Even if your Clanmates are getting murdered or tortured or whatever.

This frustrates me because, this is a MASSIVE change to the Warrior Code, something the audience has been desperate for. Drama in this series has practically dried up, and barely anything happens for books and books.

To make such a long-awaited addition be something this useless feels like an insult. Like they just begrudgingly did the bare minimum so they could ignore it. Even the "drama" of Reedclaw trying to oust Leafstar in CC was pointless, because if the writers were just less boring with their characters, she could have called for that vote all on her own.

"Ah but the code--" characters are capable of arguing that laws are ineffective and drastic measures need to be taken. Other characters can agree with them. it's that simple. Law is a social construct, not a wizard's magic barrier

Like. It could be that easy. Reedclaw doesn't want to physically harm Leafstar so she calls for a vote of no confidence. Cats quibble about if it's "legal" or not, Hawkwing proposes that it be 75% supermajority because then it would be extremely clear this is the will of SkyClan, etc. This would also be more interesting because then it's not established, it's new ground.

BUT. For BB I do want it to be law. Just a law that actually gets used.

So right now I'm leaning towards something like;

"If a leader is no longer able to rule with honor by their Clan's three-quarter decree, the Star shall undergo a ritual to return their blessings. This ritual must be both invoked by a cleric and a warrior, and then carried out by them if successful."

I still feel like three-quarters is a tall order, but I think I can work with it. At the very least, I can remove the requirement for ALL the Clerics to be in agreement.

I'm particularly fond of the idea of the idea that the two accusers have to carry out the WHOLE thing. The Cleric performs the parts of the ritual that would "wash" the lives away from the Leader, and the Warrior performs the parts of the ritual that would allow the Deputy to take them early. Overall, I think it would be generally better if the "difficulty" of enacting this commandment came from the fact the Cleric and the Warrior have to be EXTREMELY dedicated to it.

Like, instead of dealing with a lot of waiting and asking, if you want them gone, you have to do something very tedious with no reward.

As for what that ritual looks like, I want to reference BB!Rowanstar's sacrifice. The leader will probably have to bathe or be rinsed by the water of the Moonpool, and the deputy gets dunked in that.

bramblegirl bathwater