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Failures of Spirit

The tribes do not live by a written law. Instead, they recognize certain behaviors as failures — ways a cat falls short of the trust placed in them by their tribe and the expectations of their ancestors. Most failures are not punished formally by the tribe, but judgment comes from the community. A cat committing faliures may lose trust, responsibility, or respect until they prove themselves again. Keepers reinforce these lessons through old tales, ensuring the valley remembers its past mistakes.

Failure of Aid

Abandoning a cat in danger when help could have been given. The valley teaches that survival depends on cooperation. Turning away from another cat in danger is considered one of the most serious failures a cat can commit. Trust must be rebuilt through consistent acts of reliability.

Reponse of the Tribe

  • Cats may be reluctant to rely on the offender or offer their own aid.
  • The offender may be expected to take greater risks in order to prove their loyalty.
  • Some may openly question or discredit their courage or character.

Tales of Failure

  • “The Cat Who Cried Dog” — a hunter ignores a call for help and later finds themselves alone when danger comes.
  • “The Snow That Took Two” — one cat survives an avalanche but refuses to search for a missing companion.

Failure of Waste

Taking more prey than needed, allowing prey to spoil unused, or simply not contributing to the tribe and wasting its resources. The valley provides what cats need, but only if its gifts are respected. Waste shows disregard for both the land and the tribe.

Reponse of the Tribe

  • The offender will be expected to assist with hunting more often.
  • Other hunters may watch their actions closely and they will likely be discouraged from hunting alone.
  • Caretakers and keepers may openly remind them of their loyalty to the tribe and valley.

Tales of Failure

  • “Greedypaws” — a proud hunter wastes precious prey and leads the tribe to hardship.
  • “The Silent Burrow” — prey disappears from a place where it was once plentiful after overhunting.

Failure of Peace

Breaking the peace between tribemates through violence or threats. The tribes exist so the cats within the valley may share their knowledge and prevent unnecessary suffering. Needless violence threatens the survival of every cat.

Reponse of the Tribe

  • The offender may be excluded or avoided during gatherings.
  • Other cats, even their tribemates, may distrust them and discredit their opinions during disputes.
  • The offender may be expected to issue a public apology or perform an act of penance.

Tales of Failure

  • “The Whistle of Claws” — a fight erupts during a gathering, and the valley suffers the consequences.

Failure of Respect

Disturbing the dead, disrepecting ancestral spirits, or mocking the tribe's traditions. The tribes believe their ancestors remain part of the valley, even in death, to guide the living. Disrespecting their legacy or remains shows scorn for that cycle.

Reponse of the Tribe

  • The offender may be expected to assist in burial rites or memorial ceremonies.
  • The offender may be expected to assist with the care of keepers or passing travelers.

Tales of Failure

  • “The Bones Beneath the Roots” — a cat desecrates a grave and is haunted by guilt and misfortune.