CrestClan | Training Grounds

In CrestClan, the Training Grounds take up one of the medium sized houses that stayed in a sturdy enough condition to be used. The floor is wood but is covered in debris and dust. Stairs lead to an upstairs area, where most of the roof has fallen off to reveal the sky. Training apprentices learn to climb buildings here, as well as well as learning how to balance on thin beams. The downstairs area is pretty large, so it is used for learning how to fight. And sometimes a brave mouse will wander in, and a lucky apprentice will be able to show off their skills.

Walking into the center of the room, Cloudleap looked towards Inkpaw. "I need you to come here. Show me your stance," he said. "Pretend I'm going to leap at you. Try to not be knocked over."

Inkpaw wanted to yawn and walk off, reluctantly moving into a crouch instead. He grounded his paws, tensing and watching his mentor with narrowed eyes.

Cloudleap studied Inkpaw. He stepped forward and adjusted his apprentice's right forepaw. "You need to feel somewhat like a tree. Nothing can move you without a lot of trouble once you've got it right." Ruffling his fur, he continued. "Remember not to move your tail very much. You're doing better than yesterday." Suddenly, in a flash of movement Cloudleap hooked Inkpaw's feet from under him.

Inkpaw jumped backwards, stumbling only slightly before regaining his balance. He glowered at his mentor. His tail lashed and he rolled his eyes. "Why should balance matter in battle training when we'll be moving while we're fighting? It's not like the enemy is going to go, 'Oh, he's standing so still, better not attack him!'." He huffed in annoyance.

Cloudleap sighed. "It helps you stay balanced and resist an attack when you're moving too. It helps you ground yourself," he said. "At least you didn't fall this time. You're getting better." He moved, then steadied himself. He dug his paws into the ground, feeling the grooved of the floor and the bits of dust getting stuck in his toes. "Now you jump at me. Watch how I keep my tail steady. Not too high, not too low. That helps you balance. Try to knock me down."