Pathfinders

General Layout

The pathfinder camp is at the base of a small mountain and rests a short walk away from a pond. That same pond is connected to the river that cuts between the two tribe territories, effectively making a triangle shape between all owned land. The camp itself is a flat oval of dirt and stone, and most of the dens are made from bushes and rocks that are found along the edges in a circle.

The entrance to the caves is found at the direct base of the mountain and rests below a ledge where gatherings are held. During these meetings (and Priest led- speeches) the cats speaking would sit upon this ledge and look out at the entire camp. The camp is big enough to hold many cats, especially when the two tribes come to mingle once a moon.

Pathfinder Dens

This is the main working force of the faction, and while you may assume that they'd make their beds in the main circle of camp, they instead nest along the rocks and caverns at the base of the mountain. The main area is for guests, and guests only. Little crannies and caves can be found scattered around the main cave entrance, and each is lined with soft bedding for every member. Members of the Pathfinders can chose to sleep in bigger caves together, or find their own private ledges to get some alone time away from the busy camp. As long as they do not sleep within the Priest caves and can see the camp from their perch, they are welcome to set up their bed there.

The most common places to set up beds is among the rocks closest to the base of the mountain. It provides easy access to the main camp and tends to be a bit safer. The larger dens are set up here, and can house many cats at once.

Guest Dens

Any den found among the bushes and rocks (that aren't occupied by pathfinders) around camp can be taken and used by guests. When a cat choses a place to sleep, that will be theirs until they leave and no one else is permitted to take it. Most guest dens are small dug out holes beneath thick bushes or piles of rocks. The bigger dens can host a family or a couple, and those are typically reserved in case of emergencies. Cats are welcome to dig out more dens if they wish to, or make some of the smaller holes bigger to house more members if needed. Each den's floor is covered with moss or other soft objects of the owner's preference. Cats are also welcome to make homes among tree roots or anywhere else in camp that suits their needs. As long as they stay in view of the pathfinders, it is permitted.

The Mountain Caves & The Ledge

The cave located at the center of the mountain base is the shining star of the Pathfinders camp. Not many are permitted to enter unless they are invited or a member of the Priests/Disciples. The entrance is wide and surrounded by large, intimidating boulders that lead up to the speaking ledge above. Also known as the 'Ledge of Peace'.

The Ledge of Peace is a spot reserved only for Priests or the leaders of the fellow Tribes. Meetings, sermons and gatherings are all hosted here, and the speaker is able to get a good view of the entire Pathfinders camp. The mountains assist in enhancing the speakers voice, and it's rumored that one can hear the echo of their speech from the edges of the territory.

The main cave is right below the speaking ledge, and this is where the Priests make their home. The caverns are a winding labyrinth that never seems to come to an end. One might assume that these tunnels are pitch black, but instead they are lines with gemstones that reflect the light made by glowworms scattered throughout. Creating a soft, comforting aura. New parts of the cave is discovered every so often and expands the ever growing underground system. The cave closest to the entrance are the most well documented, and it isn't recommended to venture too deep without a group of cats familiar with how the systems function. Towards the front are two main dens. To the left is the Priests den; a large rounded cave with a ledge for every priest. They each get their own soft nest, and typically surround themselves with unique trinkets or other personal items to decorate their area. To the left of the cave entrance is where the Herbs are stored and the sick reside. The cracks along the walls are stuffed with drying herbs, and a few nests are scattered along the floor.

There is one part of the caves that is even more prized among the members of this faction. And that is the Pool of Stars. This is by far the hardest section to find, and can only be found if escorted by a Priest or senior Disciple that knows the way. It's a medium sized cave filled with jutting gemstones and may glowworm silk bundles. In the center is a small pool that was created by a trickle of water falling from the walls. The pool seems to almost glow due to the brightness of the cave, and when once gazed upon it's depth it almost looks like you're staring that the night sky.

The Main Camp

A large, completely flat area made of dirt and rocks below the small mountain. Most shrubbery had been cleared out to make a wide open space for cats to mingle and walk freely. All bushes and rocks were kept along the edge, creating a circle of foliage where the guest dens are located. It's the largest camp among the factions, and can easily house members of each tribe. The thick tangle of trees and bush provide some protection against strong winds and acts as a barrier to larger wild creatures who might be wandering by. It isn't uncommon to find all manner of animals trapped among the shrubs, and occasionally Guards may be called to attempt to free the poor creature.

Cats are encouraged to use the large area to it's full potential, and it's common to see large gatherings of cats throughout the day using the area to socialize, share tongues, or whatnot. A popular social activity is to gather a sizeable group of cats and eat together in a large circle, going around taking turns to share gossip or discus what their plans might be for that day. It's polite to include Guests in these activities if they show interest, and cats may be scolded if it seems the guests are being left out of the daily activities.

Important locations found in the Pathfinder's Territory

• The Lakefront
  The Pathfinder's camp connects to a beautiful beach by Haven's Lake- The main fresh-water source for cats within the factions. If a cat at right at the water's edge, they'd get a jaw-dropping view of both Tribe territories. The climbing cliffs to the left, and the rolling valley hills to the right. It's a popular place to watch the sun rise and fish with ease.

• Pathfinder Borders
  This faction, unlike the others, has an incredibly small territory. Most if it is taken up by the mountain they call home. Surrounding their camp is a forest mixed with birch, oak and many different kinds of shrubbery. Pathfinders have set borders, though it's members are welcome to explore farther into the Nomad's land or neighboring tribe territories- as long as they don't hunt and take their resources.

• Hunter's Cabin
  This twoleg structure is not located within the Pathfinder's territory, but does reside close enough that it is a source of anxiety for their members. Just north of the territory line is a log-cabin with a few twolegs and dogs that spend the warmer seasons there. Posing mainly as an issue for them and the Cliffs; cats are warned to stay far away from that place as possible. Not only because of the twolegs that hunt there, but also because of a strange contraption they use to capture their prey. Only a few have seen it in action, but there are tales of these traps capturing bears. Tread carefully, and remember your surroundings.

Traditions

• Gatherings
  A new concept coined by the Pathfinders in an attempt to promote peaceful interactions between the three factions. The two tribes gather once a month on a clear night in the Pathfinders camp. They are encouraged to come bearing offerings to the Ancestors in the form of food or herbs. Cats are permitted to mingle and check in with their loved ones from the other factions, and after some time the Commanders and a chosen Priest will be called to share the news of the territories with each other. If all goes well, cats may mingle once more after the speeches and leave when they wish.
  

• The Midnight Feast
  Every night the Priests will emerge from the caves to share a meal with the other Pathfinders. All activity in camp will halt for the time being as they enjoy a moment of rest and fun. They will lead a prayer thanking the ancestors for their food, and then the camp may eat together. It is encouraged to mingle and spend time getting to know the other members and strengthen their bonds. If the Priests are busy, Disciples may be called to lead the prayer for that night.
  

• Speaking With the Stars
  When Priests feel their connection to the Ancestors are in need of strengthening, they will lead their Disciples throughout the labyrinth of caves; they often chant or quietly speak their individual prayers as they walk, and they may call upon specific Ancients if they feel they need their guidance. This is a good time for Disciples to get a better understanding of how the caverns are laid out, and possibly discover new areas that can be cleaned out and used. At the end of the walk, the group will gather around the pool and tell stories of the Ancients.
  

• Weekly Lessons
  Once a week, the Priests will host lessons for the Disciples; but all are welcome to sit in and learn. A lesson typically includes sharing stories about great Commanders or Priests in the past or a discussion on herbs and prayer. Each lesson will have some kind of teaching the Priests wish to share; a common lesson recently involves speaking about the great plague, and how the Pathfinders failed their tribe by not getting involved sooner. This is a source of great shame, and the Priests encourage cats to communicate with members of the other factions often so that it does not happen again.
  

Assignments

• Entry Trials
  If a cat wishes to leave their old life to join the ranks of the Pathfinders, they must complete three tasks. to join as a disciple, the cat must pass all three trials while any other rank is only required to pass two. Speaking of the trials is forbidden, so outside knowledge of what the trials entail is an unfair advantage and if discovered, will be punished.
  
  Trial 1: The cat who wishes to join the pathfinders must first showcase their personal talents. Typically this involves preforming a task that you were trained for. (Such as: Hunt, Strength, Caretaking) But could also include more unique skillsets a cat may have. This first task is up to them.
  
  Trial 2: Second, all cats within the pathfinders must prove they are patient, well-spoken and kind. Unknown to the tester, cats will be appointed to approach them throughout the day to engage in irritating behavior or make uncomfortable requests. Most often two cats will be instructed to cause a scene in camp, typically an argument of some kind, which the tested feline will be told to settle. Whether they successfully break up the fight or not is not the point; It matters more how they approach the situation and problem solve to get the best outcome.
  
  Trial 3: The final test is the longest and most revealing of character. The cat must spend an entire day from sunrise to sunrise alone on a small ridge high up in the mountain. They will be given a strip of bark containing water to drink throughout the day and they will be left alone with a single piece of prey that they must not touch. There will be a rotating guard system of one cat that will watch them, unknown to the one being tested, and they are not permitted to interact with the trainee unless the cat acts out to hurt them self or others. If they fail, the guard will reveal themselves and silently guide them back down the mountain so they can reflect on their failures and return to their tribe.
  
  

• Disciple Test
  A cat wishing to join the disciples must first take a test to prove their intellect and desire to work for the ancestors. Disciples are an honored role, but their work is not as glorious as that of their companions. Most cats join this role in the hopes of learning from the Priests and hopefully taking their place someday. They are students, and to become a student one must prove they are ready to be one.
  
  The Test: Cats who want to join the disciple rank must first approach the priests and discuss a date when the test can be taken. When a time has been decided, the Priests will meet with them in a private section of the caves and begin. It's typically an interview of sorts, and can be quite intense- A tester is asked to recount stories of all the ancients and answer specifics of the tribe history. They may even ask for personal opinions on events to gauge how impersonal or personal they are. After a while the interview becomes very intimate, and private questions about your history and your family tree will be asked. Has your cat ever done something they regret? Have they ever been in love? Was there a reason for choosing to become a disciple? The priests are mainly looking to see how you respond to said questions, or if you have any strong flaws that might pose a risk in the future

Once the interview is complete, the tester will be dismissed and the Priests will discuss amongst themselves if their answers were satisfactory. If so, your cats new rank will be announced in the next few days.