the river clearing

Where the river becomes shallow and calm, it parts, surrounding a large clearing before coming back together into a stream. There are few places to enter, but many large stepping stones provide a bridge for those not willing to wade through the rather shallow water. A thick net of reeds and foxtails surround the clearing, providing no outside view or entry, expect for several small weak spots in the reed net. Beyond the thick net is a slopped edge leading down into a large open clearing covered in a thin layer of soft sand. At the far south side of the clearing, a tall growing oak tree looms over the heads of all who stand below it. Four low branches hang low on the oak, the lowest of which provide a perch for the leaders of the three clans as they give their announcements to the gathered cats.