The night air carries the scent of damp earth and pine as you weave between the towering trees, your paws silent against the forest floor. The moon, nearly full, casts silver light through the canopy, illuminating the world in eerie shadows. You’ve come so far. The housefolk’s nest, the soft cushions, the endless bowls of food—all left behind. A life of comfort, yet a life without purpose. Something had always called to you from beyond the fence, something wild and free. And when you finally leapt over that wooden barrier, your paws hitting the untamed ground, you knew there was no turning back.

Now, the scent of other cats lingers in the air, stronger than before. A musky, territorial warning. A border. You hesitate for only a moment. This is what you wanted. This is what you chose. The stories of the wild Clans, of their fierce battles and unwavering loyalty, had reached your ears even as a kittypet. And now, you stand at the edge of that very world, heart pounding, senses alert. But will they accept you?

A rustle in the undergrowth sends a shiver down your spine. You barely have time to react before shadows explode from the foliage. Eyes gleam in the darkness, and suddenly, you are surrounded. Warriors. Their pelts bristle, claws unsheathe, and their gazes lock onto you with suspicion and challenge. You fight the instinct to run. Running means weakness. Running means you're nothing more than a lost kittypet playing warrior.

A sleek tabby steps forward, their tail high, eyes narrowing as they study you. "Who are you, and why have you trespassed on our land?"

Your mouth is dry, but you lift your head. "I seek a new life," you say. "I wish to join your Clan."

For a heartbeat, silence. Then, murmurs ripple through the gathered cats. Some scoff, some glare, but the leader’s gaze remains unreadable.

"A kittypet wants to be one of us?" a warrior sneers. "Soft paws won’t last a moon."