Undertakers are a Clans of the Emerald Isle exclusive role, something new to add to the dynamics of clan life! In this post, we'll delve more in depth for the responsibilities and privileges given to the cats in these roles.
The Undertaker of each clan is a singular cat meant to serve under the will of Shade's Wing. Shade's Wing is a mythological figure acting as a "grim reaper" to the clans. She is an all black cat with wings, a guide to cats going to Starclan. Undertakers typically pray to her, as any signs or omens come from her guidance directly. Other cats of Starclan will not communicate to Undertakers.
These cats are tasked with duties such as burying their clan's dead, keeping count of each cat lost in the moon, observing the ways of death to detect potential threats. If a common cause is found, such as sickness or a predator, the Undertaker will announce such things at gatherings.
Undertakers typically work until their own passing, as it is an honor to serve Shade's Wing until she decides it is your time to join her. Retirement may get looked down upon by the other Undertakers, but other clanmates wouldn't understand the nuances of such actions. They are expected to take an "apprentice" at 100 moons old. This Undertaker in training should already become a warrior. The clans don't believe it is suitable to take a younger cat and overwhelm them with such a heavy job.
Depictions of Shade's Wing have caused the clans to believe that all-black cats work the best as Undertakers. This is not a required trait by any means, they simply believe that they have Starclan's blessing to thrive in such a role.
The Undertakers meet on every new moon at the Stone Garden. The Stone Garden is an overgrown graveyard outside of the Gathering Place. During their meetings, they talk about their death counts and see if they have been given any omens from Shade's Wing.
Interested in participating in this role? We have two opportunities for you! Cloverclan's Ragwortpatch is the oldest Undertaker currently alive, and is up for adoption. We will also be accepting Original Character applications for Ragwortpatch's apprentice. They can be any warrior-age cat from Cloverclan!
Both Knollclan and Lochclan's Undertaker roles are filled, but future opportunities will be given in roleplay! Knollclan's Hollowscreech and Lochclan's Wolfhowl are featured in the art above.
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