"We shall be a fire they can not put out"
Territories and Camp
Territory
Fire empire is a vast territory. Full of many prey and Lush forest and even a fast plains. The lands can be rough and wild. The camp lies deep within a wild pine forest filled with lush greenery which help keep its location hidden from Enemies. The scent of Pine can be smelled for miles into the territory leaving it the main scent of Fire Empire.
Camp
Located deep in a vast amount of flourishing pines the camp is made up of a long lost civilization building. The walls still standing after all the years. Though cracked and broken, vines grown up the seems almost as if holding it together. Holes make way for safe, comfy dens filled with moss and leaves. The large center leaves room to roam and play.
The Arches/Gateway
This archway is littered with weeping vines and moss growing up the edges. Cracks litter the top and sides. Still standing strong this stone arch connects the two buildings together. Making crossing it easy but watch your step it’s a long fall to the ground.
Located at the main entrance to the camp between 7 and A.
1: Leaders den
The leaders den is placed up high where the leader can watch over their clan and give announcements. Located Above the Silvers den.
2: Silvers Den
The silver’s den is right below the leader’s den, where the silver can watch over the main camp. Located Below the Leaders den.
3: Blacksmith Forge/Armor Storage/ Den/Storage
The blacksmith's den is quite spacious in order to fit armor as well as a sleeping space for the blacksmith. The forge is near the back corner where there’s a hole in the wall to let smoke out. Rain does, occasionally, get into this den.
4: Nursery/Cub Den
Tucked around the corner from the main entrance, the nursery is placed beneath the healer’s den.
5: Healers Den
A little hole in the wall, but surprisingly big all things considered. Enough space for healers and all their herbs
6: Apprentice Den
Not a very large den, but big enough. It's placed right beside the cub's den, and not far from the sandy hollows
7: Gladiators Den
This den is close to the center of camp, near the entrance for easy access.
Extras
A: Guard’s post
Placed just outside the camp entrance for Vanguard’s to watch for intruders. There's often beds made within the den for shift changes, but many vanguards use this as their permanent den.
B: Stomping ground
This space is used as a general empire hang-out spot, and many gather here to talk and eat together. Cub’s enjoy playing here. Pretty blue and purple flowers grow around the wall in the stomping ground, adding to its ancient charm.
C: Silent’s Watch
A large tree, and the highest point in the camp. Gives the ability to see for a ways out of camp. Used by Guards or Felines looking to get a good view of the sunset. Often used as a playground for apprentices and older cubs.
D: Sandy Hollows
A patch of sand where apprentices generally train and hang out.
E: Leaping Stones
A path of stones across the shallowest point of the pond near camp. Most apprentices can walk across this patch of water, but cubs should be wary as there are some deeper spots in the water
F: Floating Isle
A small island, not used for much, but is quite often occupied by apprentices and young gladiators. The island is surrounded by pretty water lilies and lily pads, and frogs and lizards are not uncommon, however fish are rarely ever found in the waters close to the island. Usually it is a perfect spot to watch dragonflies during their Breeding Season.
Prey and Predators/Threats
Predators/Threats
Eurasian Brown Bear, Gray Wolf ,Poisonous Vipers, Wild Boar, Coyotes, Badgers, Red Foxes, Grey Foxes, Eagles, Hawks, Skunks (not so much a threat other then a stink), and Mankind.
Prey
Deer (mostly White tail/ Mule, Red and Roe) , Sheep (mostly from travelers or shepherds with lost herds), Wild Boar, Mice, Moles, Voles, Squirrels, Rabbit, Birds of many kinds (Black bird/ raven/ crows, Magpies, Finches, Morning doves, Starlings, Nightingales, Owls, Eagles, Hawks(if you dare) and the occasional Falcons (if you dare), Fishes (Many kinds, Bass, trout, Eel, Bullhead/catfish, Minnows) Frogs/ Toads (make sure not the poisonous ones, steer clear of wart frogs), Lizards (particularly the some skinks however only eat them if need me, Scales are hard to digest and you don't wanna end up with a serious problem), Turtles (Rare but can be eaten)
Climate
Fire empire territory is usualy quiet warm. Despite the Winter months, The large amount of trees and lush bushes make the winter a little more bareable. However it can be quiet hot in the summer months making life groggy but full of fun water play time.
Weather Storms/ Disasters
Tornados
Hurricanes
Floods/Flash Flooding
Drought
Thunderstorms
Heat Storms
Ranks/ Positions
Leader-
The upmost important Rank. The Leader is to be respected. They are what holds Whole empire on their shoulders. They protect us and Guide us when times are tough. They always Know what is right for their Empire and ALWAYS place the Empires needs before their own.
Silver Gladiator-
As second in comand The silver as well is to be highly respected. The leader usually chooses the Silver based on skills, loyalty and strength. It is an honor to be choosen as Silver and only one can be choosen at a time.
Gladiators-
The Protectors of the Empire. They are the Power behind the Flame we hold. They fight our wars, they feed our children. The train our young to become great.
Apprentices-
The young and innocent Children have grown to the age of learning. Gladiators take on one apprentice each as they help guide and raise them to be fine gladiators. Though they still can not do as much a Gladiator can They are very useful in our development as a group.
Cubs-
The Future of the empire. One of the most important Members of the Empire. We must strive to protect, nourish and teach these little beans to grown big and strong.
Blacksmith-
The builder of the Empire. A hard task for any cat. The black smith puts a-lot of their time and effort into making armor for your Empire mates. They burn their paws and Melt their own whiskers to make sure our backs are covered. Give them the upmost respect.
Blacksmith Apprentice-
Little Metal benders we like to call them. These Apprentices are those who dont much fancy in the ways of war but instead prefer to use their creativity and abilities in other ways. As they learn under the Blacksmith one day they two will be forging the armor that protects us. Often picked by the black smith themselves when they are ready to retire.
Healer-
The healer is to be Respected just as highly as the Leader, Silver, Gladiator and Blacksmith. This role is super important to the Empire. Without a healer our Empire would fall. In times or great need the healer is our savior. They heal us and protect us from dangers of what we cant see. Sickness, wounds, battle scars, even the smallest thorn stuck in a paw pad the healer will be there to make sure we come out in tip tip shape.
Healer Apprentice-
Healer apprentices are much like Blacksmith Apprentices. They use there abilities to better their empire in other ways and in this case in healing our sick, broken and weak. Don't be afraid ur your friend or cub mate tried to wrap up all your legs in practice. They are often picked by the healer themselves when they are ready to retire.
--Other/Sub Ranks--
Den parent -
Those who watch over the cubs when mothers need a day out or simple someone to play with the cubs as they grow and get anxious to be out and playing.
Scout / Messenger -
Send messages to and from other empires. They gather info from other empires and from around the city.
Patrol chief -
Older, more experienced felines. They lead border checks, hunting patrols and other various patrols.
Vanguards -
Watch over camp, generally the last force who stay close to camp if FE is ever raided. They are more trusted, experienced members of the empire and they often lead the way for younger members, and tend to be the ones to introduce new members to the empire and their ways
Bard -
The lore keepers and story-tellers of the empire. They keep the empire's history with them and retell tales from long ago. Many Bard's are older felines who've been around for a long time. Some share stories of their own past, others stories of another. They are expected to remember events and be able to retell them with vigor. These felines are also important in teaching new members the history, rules and expectations of the empire.
Rogues -
Often go into smaller villes to gather materials for the empire. caravan raids, and occasional stealing from other empires and massilia itself is also permitted. They are often accompanied by a guard on village or caravan raids.
Assassins - > (possibility TBA)
Relations
With in the Empire
We are the same as all the other Empires besides the Hunters and Stone.
We strive to better our future. We strive to be strong and steady felines by protecting what is rightly ours.
To other Empires
Lighting:
Currently Neutral
Air:
Currently Neutral
Ice:
Currently Neutral
Shadow:
Currently We have a treaty with Shadow they seem to be noble cats.
Stone:
Currently Neutral. However we tend to agree that the hunters need to go, But the way they go about it is moraly wrong...
Hunters:
Deep Hatred
Empire Laws
The laws stated below may or may dont match those of our opposing Empires.
1: Your Loyalty MUST Remain to Fire Empire and its Members.
2:Your Empire comes before any cat. (Family/cubs not included)
3: Cubs, Elders and Mothers must be fed first. They are our future we must keep them strong.
4: Boundaries are made for a reason. Do not cross them without first asking your leader. Those caught trespassing and or Hunting on another Empires lands will be Punished.
4: Romanic relationships with other Empire members is STRICKLY prohibited. See rule 1.
5: Any threats must be Reported Directly to the Silver or Leader. (From the smallest fox to the Wandering traveler)
6: Killing for sport is NOT an option. teach our young that wildlife is to be respected and not wasted. Prey is to little and to scares at times to fool around.
Punishments
Punishments change varying on degree of the charge or crime committed
A warning is first issued to those who break rules. If caught more then once a punishment is unenviable.
1: Cleaning duty: all dens will be cleaned spotless and bedding changed (usually last 3 days)
2: Cubsitting: for 3 Days you will have to stay in camp and cub sit for the nursery. This is no funny business.
3: Banned from leaving the Camp: You will not be allowed to leave camp for a week. For now you will tend to others needs, Fetching food, water, Cleaning, ect. If bad enough you will be Placed under the supervision of a single cat who will act as your Guardian. (usually last a week)
4Getting Demoted to a lower rank: For crimes a little worse then the average joe. Your Rank will be taken form you. Say your a gladiator, your rank would be lowered to a apprentice. If you are a apprentice your rank will be dropped to cub again. This is only untill you realize what you've done and have grown from your mistakes. You must re-complete your training to Rank back up.
5: Banishment/Capture: Failure to follow the rules or committing a horrid crime against the empire or its members will lead to permanent banishment from Fire empire. You will be treated as a prisoner. (this punishment us usually only given to those who help the enemy. Your trust has been provoked and your empire can no longer trust your loyalty.
Customs/ Traditions/ Festivities
Day of the Dragons
Day of the dragons happens around the Summer months. Near The Floating Isle Dragons flies of all shapes sizes and colors swarm the Small plot of land, Laying here eggs in the reeds and grasses. Mostly apprentices and cubs take the time to go and veiw this spectacular time of year. Cubs love ot play and chase the little fluttering bugs, but be wary Dragonflies can bite.
Fishers Festival
A rare event that takes place only once a year! Sometimes it doesn't even happen due to lack of fish. However if the event does happen its a splendid time to enjoy some tasty morsels. During this time the fish are traveling back from the breeding grounds. Swimming in mass swarm near the stepping stones. Many cats gather here to share fish, play in the waters as masses of fish swim by on their way home. Swim, play, eat, share and cuddle to your hearts content.
Day of the Phoenix
This day does not happen often maybe twice a year. Its a sudden festival of sorts. On these days the Moon passes over the sun. Causing a Solar eclipse. It is said cats can almost feel the eclipse abut to come. The air gets tight and the scent of the air grows firey. Its also said that this happens because the moon wants to take over the sun and cover the earth in darkness. The sun and moon are battling for Power of the sky. Mothers and elders tend to tell tales of how if you dont lift your head to the sky and close your eyes to give the sun your strength the moon will win and he earth will forever be swallowed in darkness. Its a cub tale but some cats really do think the sun and moon really are in battle for the sky. Many cats will gather in the heart of the Camp to lift their heads high and give the sun their strength to over come the moon
Celebration of Fairies
This celebration happens in the heat of summer late at night. The rumor is that around the floating isle there is faries that appear. The festival is mostly for cubs and apprentices however. "Faries" are actually just fireflies. Around this time of year they are appearing more and more. However in this particular time they are abundant near the waters edge or even on the floating island. Mothers, Gladiators even the silver and leader like to participate in the festival by goin out late at night and building small make shift stone huts known as fairy dens for the cubs to find inside the huts are small precious stones or items that the faries were apparently hiding away. They then wake the little cubs to come and play a the little game.
Fires Ashes
This is the saddest days of the Empire. Fires Ashes is the days where they must let go of lost ones. Weather it be sickness, War/battle or age. All life is sacred. All life should be cherished. The days of Fire's Ashes is a day when cats who were closest to the deceased stay up in longing to mourn the loss of life. It is also used to remember the times of good with the lost one. Stories of their triumphs will be told as the soul is lifted to the heavens above to join the Gods. The ceremony usually lasts a whole day. The body and burial place is prepared first and then the morning will take place. Cubs will not be allowed to enter this ceremony unless it their mother/ father or Sibling. After the burial cats often will place items over and around the grave before leaving the body to rest.
Ceremony of becoming The Leader
Its is of the highest Honor to become Leader. However with great Honor comes great Responsibility. Leaders are often those who Rank up from Silver due to the death or retirement of the previous leader. The ritual usually lasts one night. Once the responsibility is passed onto you. You must sit alone for an entire night and watch your camp. At Sunrise you will be able to rest for the day and the following day you must choose carefully your next silver.
Ceremony of becoming The Silver
Must like the Leader its of high Honor to be chosen as Silver. For you know in due time one day you'll be leader. Much responsibility is on your shoulders. The Leader often waits till the sun is at its highest setting to hold the ceremony for which the whole empire will be up and watching. Once the leader chooses you, you will step up to them and bow down where the leader then takes her nose and touches each of your shoulders then calls out your name along with your new rank.
Ceremony of becoming a Gladiator/High rank(Blacksmith or Healer)
Becoming gladiator isn't easy its a long hard training ritual all cats will face. The ceremony is quick and easy. You will be called forth during a Camp meeting around sun set where the leader sands tall as they bellow out the triumphs and wonders you have done to become a gladiator. The leader then comes to you and places a red ruby around your neck to symbolize your becoming a gladiator. Then they will caress your cheek gently with her muzzle in a respectful manner before backing away. (many cats choose to leave the necklace behind or you can take the ruby and place it in your armor or use it as a type of jewelry molded by the black smith.)
Ceremony of becoming a Apprentice/ High rank apprentice
Every cub dreams of growing up being an strong and this is the first step. Becoming an apprentice is a great leap for young cats. The training is long and hard and at first may seem never ending but one day you'll see how it benefits your empire and yourself. During a camp meeting the leader will call out all cubs ready to rank up. One by one the leader will name you all off before taking a paw covered in red paint (usually mad of mushed berries) and placing a red paw print on your shoulder. (fades away or can be washed off easily) This symbolizes you becoming a Apprentice and to start your training. They will then appoint you to your Mentor. The following day is the hardest. You must spend one night away from camp with your mentor. This is a test to see if your ready and to see how you cope with your mentors teaching.