|
Post by 🌙Moonpower🌙 on Jul 31, 2017 10:08:48 GMT -5
Scorchfire would've been more amused at what they were doing. StarClan knows he got into twice as much trouble before he even made it to his apprenticeship xD
|
|
|
Post by Moonblazer on Jul 31, 2017 11:42:39 GMT -5
Lol yeah, I assumed he was more laid back and humored by it rather than Lionshade's stern demeanor. I'll have to write Scorchfire more if you'll allow me XD
|
|
|
Post by Moonblazer on Aug 1, 2017 13:58:20 GMT -5
Spiderpaw and Closesky
She's ready to fight the day he takes her out to the training hollow. Closesky has trained plenty of cats, three to be exact. Talonfury, Nightstrike and Scorchfire were all just as enthusiastic as this.
He's never trained a she-cat before, hardly understands the adult she-cats now-a-days, he thinks with deep humor. But he knows this one is hardly any different from the toms. She'll be just as stubborn, just as bold, and just as good as the others too. He wonders why Northstar gives him such a gift, to mentor so many of her clanmates.
Their clanmates, he corrects himself often, usually proudly as he reminds himself that he is Shadowclan, no matter how the sky may call to him and his heart. It isn't as strong as the call of the shadows now. Northstar has given him her trust, her clan, her care...it's only fair he repay her by training warriors to make Shadowclan stronger.
He instructs her to crouch. Spiderpaw does so, her eyes like embers as she narrows them in concentration. But there's a sense of adventure there, and a headstrong air that screams for challenge.
They only work on crouches and dodges the first day, to both their disappointment. But Closesky cannot rush training, and Spiderpaw has moons to go before she can even attempt to compete.
The next session, Closesky launches a fast paw at her. Strikes her hard after she missteps and gets a dodge wrong. She skids to a halt on the sandy ground, away from her mentor. For a moment, Closesky wants to scold himself for not holding back as much, moreso than scolding her for messing up a dodge.
It seems he doesn't have to say anything at all, when she rolls quickly and shakes her dark tabby coat, and Closesky can see the blazes in her eyes as she fuels her ambition with her current mishap. She demands.
"Do it again!"
And he does. This time she dodges it. Maybe soon she'll be hitting right back.
A moon passes. She's nimble on lean legs, her body is smaller than any cat he's trained, but there's still strength in her sharp little jabs and slinking paws. She's not as sturdy as Talonfury, not as calm and calculated as Nightstrike, not as unpredictable as Scorchfire, but Starclan, he'd be lying if he said she wasn't efficient and accurate.
She hisses when she misses, and craves to be better when she does make a hit.
Closesky scolds her sharply this moon, for with all her natural vigor, she taunts and complains during battle, and she can't lose focus when she's got a clan to protect.
Spiderpaw merely scowls at him with the sharpest and most critical eyes, but he's not deterred. He'd learn from her as much as she'd learn from him.
But she's not a kit anymore. And as nice as it feels to see her eyes light up in excitement, he needs her understand her potential.
He strikes at her with faster strikes, and she dodges and strikes right back.
Three moons in has Spiderpaw rolling Lynxpaw like a mouse all over the training field. Lynxpaw may be faster than her, but she won't miss. Closesky knows better, she won't miss.
Goldpaw watches with a weary look, scooting close to Crowpaw, who looks distracted, while Pinepaw flicks her tail. Closesky can tell she wants a go, that she'd fare better against Spiderpaw than the small grey tom.
Closesky calls off the battle, and Spiderpaw scowls. She no longer chatters during her training, but she never loses that ambition for a good, long fight.
Closesky spoils her, he really does. In doing so, he spoils both the powerful little she-cats. Pinepaw and Spiderpaw spar with an energy that can't be explained, and Closesky remembers fighting the best of warriors, feeling the same thrill for battle and respect for a good opponent.
Spiderpaw thanks him later by finally succeeding in the rolling hind kick they've been working on for days.
She puffs her chest with pride when she tells her mother and father, and while they nod their approval and gaze with bright eyes, Closesky thinks he puffed his own chest too.
Not that he'd openly preen like an arrogant bird. It's not his style. So he's content with watching from afar as the skilled parents watch their skilled daughter. Closesky thinks he'll be honored to fight with these cats at his side.
5 moons. She's almost there, she's as tall as she can get, with hardly any more growth to spare. Muscled, sharp, strong, she's learned the moves he gives and works like river water, flows and bends without being stopped.
He's teaching her advanced moves when they both scent the smoke, her eyes widen in confusion, and his narrow in cold understanding. He can see the glow of orange against the dusk shaded sky.
It's fire, and it's spreading through the dry leaffall air far too quickly. The issues with Riverclan and Skyclan are bad enough, but now a fire?
By the time they reach camp, most of the clan is already preparing for evacuation if the fire came towards the camp. So far it kept its orange tongues away, but Closesky is broken out of his deep thought by the frantic shout of his apprentice.
"Closesky! Lionshade and Lilacbreeze aren't here!" Spiderpaw exclaimed. She had referred to her parents by their names quite alot, a show of her genuine respect towards them. But the fear in her eyes broke through her unbreakable armor. Closesky knew she was scared for them, and he found himself calling.
"I believe they went on patrol with Talonfury!"
He has to chase after her when she bolts from camp, desperation causing her to ignore his cries for her to stay put, for the shouts of Lynxpaw and Goldpaw, who were being ushered out frantically alongside Crowpaw and Pinepaw.
He finally finds her, as she finds Lionshade, the tom leaning on Talonfury, who looks frantic as flames begin to roar across the dry grass of Shadowclan's territory. She's trying to help her father, but Lionshade is demanding she return to camp.
Spiderpaw is stubborn. Like the others he trained. She says no like she's defying the greatest order. She will not leave. She cries out, afraid but strong, for her mother.
Lionshade widens his fire-orange eyes as his mate is finally spotted, coughing and limping near the dead and burning trees that sparsely dot around the grass. She collapses under one from the smoke and heat.
Lionshade roars her name, and Closesky feels it in his chest to reach out and grab Spiderpaw by the scruff, keeping her from rushing through the walls of flames that she was not tall enough to cross through. Closesky has never heard Spiderpaw scream before. In terror, in pure fury, in desperation.
The dark warrior reaches his mate, but the tree branches power with merciless destiny of the stars, and with a crunch, Lionshade and Lilacbreeze fall under a mass of flames and splinters.
Closesky hated watching death.
Spiderpaw understood.
They bury the charred warriors, what they could find of them after rains sizzled out the flames. Spiderpaw stares and can't look away, but she does not whine or flinch or cry. Closesky watches as she stares at the remains, and watches when she stares at the elders who bury them. She finally looks up to him, and Closesky knows what that look is.
He expects her to want to be alone for a long time. To grieve in peace. But Spiderpaw is still Spiderpaw, even when she's not.
The day after the burial, she waits for him outside the warrior's den. There's a coldness in her once blazing eyes, and with an equally freezing voice, she demands.
"I want to battle train. Every complex move, every motion of your paw. I want to know it."
Closesky can only pull himself towards her, green eyes dark with warning and empathy. He despises sympathy. And he can tell she does too. He nods in understanding, though his heart buzzes with dull loss.
"Of course. Your dedication is strong."
"I know." Is all she says, and once again they are back at the hollow. Spiderpaw ignores the scent of smoke and fire and death, and spars so coldly and focused that Closesky admires yet finds misery in the outcome. She is grieving. In a way that cannot be seen. He knows she'll break away from connection with others, she'll train harder than ever, focus so sharply on her duties that she'll close herself off from anyone who could try to care for her.
He knows this because he is the same. He was the same, once.
She's brutal in a way that makes him grit his teeth. She means her insults when she snaps at Pinepaw and Crowpaw and Lynxpaw and Goldpaw, makes Flintpaw more upset than he already was, for he had lost his mentor when Lionshade died. Spiderpaw pushes them away and never really pulls them back in.
Anything Lynxpaw says in argument is more to soothe himself than Closesky.
But Spiderpaw also unknowingly gravitates to him. Follows him on every patrol or hunt she can. Her eyes watch him in camp, and he knows she follows him every time he leaves camp at night to get some training in.
When had he become the only family she could accept? If she pushed away her denmates so easily...why had she not pushed him away too?
He doesn't have to ask, she tells him on her own the day she passes her warrior assignment. She walks back to camp at his side, mewing deeply, quietly.
"I passed it for you. For you, and Shadowclan. Those are my priorities now."
He knows that she won't say her parents names or she'll break the bitter walls that she built up so she'd never hurt like that again. He wonders if the ice on those walls makes her feel safe. He gives her a knowing look. She won't care for a smile, but he knows she'll care for this.
"You're not finished yet. You still have plenty more to learn, and plenty more to do for your clan. But for now, yes. You did pass. And I had no doubts."
She lifts her head with that same pride and ambition he thought she lost. It's a good sight. And he knows she needs that kind of challenge, that kind of outlet to focus her hopes and angers and emotions towards. Perhaps that's why she keeps a wall or two open for him...
Spiderfang is her name now. She stands and stares at Northstar with deep eyes of fire, as Goldberry, Lynxdapple, Pinefeather and Crowfur give beaming looks next to her. She steps back and gives one glance to him.
Closesky nods simply, it's all he needs to do.
She sits vigil with the other apprentices, and while she'll hide her smiles from them for moons to come, Closesky thinks in those cold walls lies a heartbeat of flames that will come back to life one day. A young she-cat with orange embers in her gaze and a sense of adventure and determination will always be deep within her.
He knows he'll see it again, after all, nobody alive knew her as well as he did now.
He leaves her to her vigil, knowing she'll follow him to the training hollow no matter how many times he goes. She always did.
|
|
|
Post by 🌙Moonpower🌙 on Aug 1, 2017 14:15:31 GMT -5
(That's good!)
|
|
|
Post by Moonblazer on Aug 1, 2017 14:18:45 GMT -5
thanks bbyyy
|
|
|
Post by Moonblazer on Aug 12, 2017 20:59:30 GMT -5
Spiritstar drabble
"Do you think they'll ever stop?"
She asks the question right before she traces the Fourtrees with her soft gaze, though her body ripples with a newfound grace and power that has the Shadowclan tom next to her witnessing her with a look of nothing less than brotherly pride.
The gathering is in full swing. But the remaining siblings can use this time before the announcements to talk. Not as clanmates, but as siblings.
She herself can't believe how quickly she jumped from healing to leading, but Starclan works in many ways.
And she prefers her name end with a "star" instead of her sister. Her bloodthirsty sister who helped bring the clans to near ruin. Spiritstar hates to remember a time when she really loved her sister, or their other brother. Even now...
She thinks, sadly, somewhere, she always will. It's in her nature. Kindness, forgiveness, strength in the mind and soul. She's still one with Starclan, whether it be as leader or medicine cat.
Cliffheart breaks her thoughts with a look of pure knowing. He murmurs.
"No...I don't think they'll ever be done. But...I think for now, as long as we still have eachother, they can't haunt us completely anymore." The tom looks away, grazing the clans around the trees with eyes too old for his still youthful body.
Spiritstar feels a sense of faith at that. He is right. Even apart, she knows she will die for him, and vice versa for her.
Cliffheart looks back at his sister, giving her a smile that could chase away any of Robinstar and Creeksplash's darkness. He breathes.
"What are you waiting for, Spiritstar? You have a clan to speak for." He nods up to where his own leader is seated regally on one of the branches. Spiritstar feels a purr in her chest, though she also feels a desire to carry herself like Northstar does. Like Scarstar and Lightningstar, heck, even the also newly positioned Earthstar does.
She's not brutishly strong, blindingly fast, silently stealthy, nor built to bear strong waters, but she is Spiritstar. She is one with Starclan, one with the grace of the midnight birds, one with the sky itself.
"I'm ready." She lifts her chin and nods once more to Cliffheart before she's leaping up the tree with the best climbing skills any of the other leaders could dream of. She settles next to Earthstar, and gazes down, smiling at her clan.
|
|
|
Post by Frozen on Aug 12, 2017 21:18:42 GMT -5
Silentflare's Lesson
"Come on, Silentkit. You've got to come outside sometime."
"I don't want to."
"Sure you do. There's a whole world out there, dear. You won't fit in the nursery much longer."
Silentkit huffed to himself. He just wanted to stay in the nursery forever. It was in his nature. The nursery was mostly quiet, full of kits too young to speak while the older, more rough kits played outside. Silentkit himself was older, too, around four moons old, and didn't see why he needed to go out more often. His apprenticeship wasn't for another two moons, so why bother?
Reluctantly, he followed his mother outside. Morningbloom was her name - a kindhearted, naturally motherly she-cat. She never left him behind, even as she was starting to fit back into her warrior duties. While Silentkit was introverted and didn't desire friends, he secretly enjoyed her company. "Maybe some warrior will teach you some battle moves. Or maybe Yarrowpaw can do that! He's probably around." Morningbloom was saying, mewing enthusiastically as she led him outside. "No thanks," Silentkit denied, hoping neither of those statements would come true. "Silentkit! You won't believe what I did today!" a cat called from across camp, approaching quickly. Silentkit pressed himself into the ground, trying to make himself invisible.
Yarrowpaw, his older brother. His annoying older brother. Always enthusiastic and optimistic, he wouldn't leave Silentkit alone. He wondered if he really did go out for training, or if he spent his day waiting for the kit to come out of the nursery for once. He also had a sister, Peachpaw, who was the medicine cat apprentice. She was much more tolerable, being busier and therefore didn't bother him much. She definitely took after Morningbloom. "You won't believe it, Silentkit!" Yarrowpaw chattered, eyes glowing. "I passed my-"
The apprentice was silenced by a yowl of alarm near the entrance. Silentkit whipped his head towards the source and bounded to the gathering of warriors, leaving his mother and brother behind. Craning his head to see over Ravenwing and Hailstorm, who had also approached the commotion, he gaped in shock. A golden tom was being brought in, pelt red with blood, by Burnstrike and Smallstorm. The two warriors were marked with scratches and injuries. Silentkit recognized the cat easily. Goldenclaw! The Clan's deputy!
He watched as Silverstar bounded down from her previous spot on the Highrock, eyes narrowed. "What's going on?" she demanded simply, remarkably calm despite the situation. "It's Goldenclaw," Smallstorm attempted to explain to the leader, but was interrupted by Burnstrike. "There was a fox attack." Burnstrike's voice seemed heavy with guilt. "A mother defending her cubs. We couldn't see until it was too late." he paused to let the Clan take the information in. "We tried to fight it off... Goldenclaw rushed in... he chased it off the territory, but he was like this when we found him." The ginger tom dipped his head. "I'm sorry, Silverstar. Goldenclaw is dead."
Silentkit's throat felt dry as the Clan went quiet with grief. The surrounding warriors bowed their heads momentarily before dispersing. Silverstar padded off to prepare for the vigil to come. How the leader of ThunderClan felt was unknown, though one thing was certain - she needed to pick a new deputy. It can't be... Silentkit thought, not moving as Morningbloom approached. "Oh, Silentkit," she sighed. "Come back inside. You're too young to witness this." She tried to coax him back to the direction of the nursery. Silentkit remained in his place. "How can Goldenclaw be dead?" he asked, his voice nearly giving out. "He's too important to be gone. How can ThunderClan go on without him?" Morningbloom did not appear to understand his question until she frowned softly. "The Clan will continue." she stated. "Goldenclaw's in StarClan now - a better place. He doesn't have to suffer anymore." "That doesn't answer my question about how ThunderClan will keep going." Silentkit retorted, though he couldn't bring himself to be sarcastic. "Silverstar will choose a new deputy. Whoever it is will be just as capable as Goldenclaw was. He will not be forgotten, however - he will be forever honored as a former ThunderClan deputy." Morningbloom mewed, pushing Silentkit to the nursery now. She stopped in front of the entrance, leaning down to his ear. "Listen well, Silentkit... one day, we will all be in StarClan. Silverstar, Smallstorm, Burnstrike, Mossfeather..." She suddenly stopped, as if she had considered adding something else to the statement. "You don't have to worry about us."
Morningbloom looked up, seeing someone approaching the mother and son. It was Wrenflight, Silentkit's father. Noticing him, she picked up the kit and placed him in his nest, her back covering the entrance. Silentkit squeaked in protest, but calmed at the familiar warmth of the nest. Even though his eyes were closed, he listened to his parents talk. "Is the vigil starting?" Morningbloom asked Wrenflight. "Should be soon. Such a shame," Wrenflight responded. "I wonder who the new deputy will be." "Whoever it is, I don't doubt they'll fit Goldenclaw's paws." A pause. "Does he really not know?" "Know about what?" Wrenflight's voice sounded accusing. Silentkit shuffled from where he was. What were they saying? Morningbloom gave a sigh. "Nevermind that. Listen... give him a chance, will you?" she asked softly. "That's all I ask..." Wrenflight snorted. Silentkit was growing tired, the voices dissolving into a low drone. He'd figure it all out tomorrow, hopefully...
---
Silentkit curled his tail around his paws, deep blue eyes staring up at the morning sky above him. There was not a cloud in the sky, the sun beaming down on the Clan. A moon had passed since the death of Goldenclaw, and much had happened since then. Silverstar herself had passed away - ThunderClan was now led by a she-cat named Duskstar and her deputy Clawpelt. Morningbloom had officially left the nursery, leaving Silentkit on his own. Yarrowpaw was a newly named warrior, Yarrowcloud, yet his new name didn't seem to have any effect on his annoyance.
Silentkit let out a huff as he saw his brother approach him once again. Yarrowcloud stopped in front of him, taking a breath before speaking. "Hey, Silentkit," he greeted. "I'm going to Snakerocks for the first time today! My mentor never let me go when I was an apprentice. I'm going with Morningbloom, too, so I have to catch an adder for her!" "Good luck," Silentkit mewed in response, though the statement felt flat. Yarrowcloud didn't seem phased. "Maybe I can catch an adder for you, too." He turned, pricking his ears as he heard his name called. "Well, I gotta go. See you later!" With that, he was gone. Silentkit closed his eyes. Right as he was about to let himself zone out, someone else approached him. "Does he ever think like a warrior?" Silentkit opened his eyes to the arrogant appearance of Wrenflight, but said nothing. "He's always so happy about everything." His father went on. "I bet he'd be on the front lines against ShadowClan and still be talking about his catch from earlier in the morning." He lashed his tail. "But you... you seem strong and serious. Like a real warrior of ThunderClan. You could make Morningbloom proud." Silentkit was unsure of how to take the praise. Wrenflight seemed... unpredictable sometimes. One misstep and he'd be on your tail for hours. "I suppose. I do wish Yarrowcloud would get out of my fur." he decided. Wrenflight turned to gaze at him, as if reading him. "You understand. You and I are more similar than I thought, much like Peachpaw and Morningbloom." he mewed. "I have high hopes for you, Silentkit... remember that as you grow to become a warrior."
Before Silentkit could respond, a yowl sounded from out of camp. "What was that?" he asked, staring around in confusion. A heavy feeling hit him, as if he couldn't move his paws from the ground. Yarrowcloud burst through the entrance, eyes wide in terror. "M-Morningbloom," he stuttered, "She was bitten by an adder!"
Wrenflight was up in an instant. "What was that?!" he demanded. Silentkit followed, chest tight. Soon Morningbloom came through the entrance, being supported by the other cats on patrol. She could barely walk, moving in various directions. Her eyes were dull. Silentkit couldn't see where she was bitten, but it was obvious that the venom was working. "Everyone, move!" Mossfeather, the medicine cat, rushed from her den, jaws full of herbs. Peachpaw followed behind her. Even though her demeanor was calm, there was no denying the veil of horror in her eyes. Camp was completely silent as the two medicine cats hovered over his mother.
At last Mossfeather raised her head. "It's too late," she shook her head, voice quiet. "The venom has gone too far. Morningbloom is gone." Silentkit's heart sank like a stone. He didn't see his father's reaction, or anyone else's - he took a step back, feeling a cold wind chill him to the bone. She was gone? How could she be gone? She was his mother! She couldn't leave like that! He shut his eyes tight, resisting the urge to sink to the floor and wail.
Suddenly, he felt embraced by something warm. "Do not worry, Silentkit," a voice whispered. Morningbloom! The kit couldn't see her, but her voice rang in his ear. "Bad things happen to all cats... but it's just part of destiny. We all know when it comes... you, too, have a destiny... there is nothing that can be done but prepare and learn from it. I will always be with you, Silentkit... no matter what everyone else says."
|
|
|
Post by Frozen on Aug 14, 2017 11:57:32 GMT -5
Patience
"So the dawn patrol will reinforce Sunningrocks?"
"Yes, fine."
"And then the evening patrol will take care of the rest."
"Right."
"Well, that takes care of that... Lightningstar?"
"Yes?"
"Are you... feeling alright?"
"What do you mean? I'm fine."
"I'm just wondering... you seem different, that's all."
"You may go, Sunthroat."
And so he went, the ThunderClan deputy letting out a sigh. Sunthroat paced outside the leader's den, deep in thought. He didn't really care if Lightningstar noticed and scolded him like a kit in front of the Clan. Something was wrong with his leader, and he needed to figure out what.
But what could he do? He lashed his tail. It wasn't the first time Sunthroat had noticed odd behavior from Lightningstar, and it seriously concerned him. Indeed, many horrible things had happened to ThunderClan recently - but the leader always kept his composure, ready to take whatever came next. Until now, it seemed.
Sunthroat gazed up at the sky, the moon beginning to rise and shine a pale light down on camp. It was late.
An idea formed in his mind. Of course, he thought. If it's not too late for them... Ending his pacing, the deputy made a beeline towards the medicine cat den. A medicine cat's word could nearly always be trusted. He just hoped that it wasn't too late. Sunthroat poked his head in the entrance, not saying anything in case they were both sound asleep.
Both medicine cats seemed to be working. Slatesight was sorting out dried, wrinkled herbs from a pile in the corner of the den, while Peachdapple sat sorting closer to the entrance. Hearing the noise, she turned around. "Sunthroat? What do you need this late at night? Deputies need sleep too, you know." "I'm aware." Sunthroat mewed, looking at her intently. "I need to talk about something... it's too important for a warrior's ears." Peachdapple suddenly turned, interested. "What is it? I may be able to help, if it's too important for anyone else..." "It's about Lightningstar," the deputy began. "I've noticed him acting a little... different recently. Have you noticed anything?" "Of course I have." Peachdapple's answer surprised Sunthroat. "If you look at him for more than a few moments, it's obvious." "But what can we do? ThunderClan needs a strong leader. I don't doubt Lightningstar, but I know a few warriors do. And what good of a deputy am I if I can't help or fix anything?" Sunthroat questioned, spilling his thoughts out to the medicine cat. "We can't let arguments happen within our own Clan. We have enough troubles as it is." "Your worries are understandable." Peachdapple nodded. "Come with me."
Sunthroat followed her outside, the two sitting in front of the medicine cat den. "Look," she gazed upward. "The sky is clear tonight. StarClan is watching us." Sunthroat looked up again. The moon had risen fully, stars stretching for miles. He partly wondered which ones were his ancestors. "As a medicine cat, it is my duty to listen to StarClan and interpret their messages. I cannot tell you what I have heard, if anything at all... but I can tell you that Lightningstar will get better. No matter what." Sunthroat said nothing. Peachdapple's reassurance seemed to be working. If she said that he would get better, surely he would. She would never lie. He merely gave a slight nod as he continued staring at the stars. "You should rest." Peachdapple spoke up. "ThunderClan has only one deputy... we can't have you sleeping later than the apprentices!" she joked. "I suppose so." Sunthroat stood, flicking his tail. "Thank you, Peachdapple... I feel less worried now." he admitted. "Good night."
"Good night, Sunthroat."
|
|
|
Post by Moonblazer on Aug 15, 2017 13:11:43 GMT -5
Nighteye and Yarrowcloud
Guilty.
He guessed that was what he felt, usually. Just guilt. Guilt in leaving, guilt in blindly following others into causing pain to those who didn't deserve it. Guilt that he could not have helped Cloudpaw earlier, persuaded him that they were better staying in the clan with Slatesight and a warm nest and warm clanmates.
It was useless though. Nightpaw supposed he loved his brother too much to see what he had become. He couldn't tell Cloudpaw he missed Thunderclan. He couldn't let his brother feel like he was alone.
Like Slatesight surely had felt.
Again, he feels guilt at that. By leaving with one brother, he abandoned his other brother.
Maybe that's why he's currently getting hit by blows and swipes he should easily be dodging by now. He's been training again, returned to Thunderclan after having to take Cloudpaw's life to save Slatesight's. Saving one brother, choosing one brother. It's how it always was.
"Aw, come on now. I know it's not supposed to be a good thing, but I'm going in half-blind here and you're still getting hit!"
Yarrowcloud's words are filled with a sort of humored exhasperation that Nightpaw is not used to. He's used to sharp orders and anger and nasty cats in twolegplaces. Sometimes he wonders if his mentor was even capable of being angry.
Then he remembers seeing Yarrowcloud toss rouges away from the nursery, half-blind and bloody, but screaming with desperate fury to protect his mate and kits and Nightpaw assures himself that he's capable of more than his personality will show.
"I'm sorry..." Nightpaw sighs, and it's an honest apology, but he leaves it simply at that, not meaning to look downcast but doing a horrible job at hiding it.
Big mistake with Yarrowcloud here, who takes sadness seriously and does all he can to turn it into some sort of happiness. Nightpaw knows the older tom has a strange way of knowing when a cat is upset, like his sister does. Nightpaw doesn't know if that's a good or bad thing, but right now it feels pretty good to see his mentor carry his puffy pelt over and flop down next to his dark frame. Maybe later he'll feel a bit overwhelmed by Yarrowcloud's bright presence, but for now he appreciates it.
"I'm getting distracted when I shouldn't be, I mean...My assessment is soon, you said, so I should be at my best. So, I'll do better this time." Nightpaw promised strongly, before his eyes widened in slight confusion as his mentor merely laughed airily.
Nightpaw gazed at a cloudy blue, blinded eye, as Yarrowcloud hadn't even turned to set his good eye to see Nightpaw, instead getting right to the talking.
"It's okay to get lost in thought, you know. Doesn't make you any weaker or less qualified to become a warrior. You know me well enough, my head's always out in Silverpelt. Or so the clan says."
Nightpaw gives a small laugh of his own as his mentor makes a jibe so easily at himself for Nightpaw's sake. The old apprentice wants to reply, but his head is still tumbling, and he's relieved when Yarrowcloud continues as if he'd never stopped.
"Take it easy, Nightpaw. You'll be a great warrior, one Thunderclan will be proud of."
"Even though I left?" Nightpaw blurts out, unable to help himself.
Yarrowcloud's quick to shrug.
"You came back. In the end, that's what matters. You came back when we needed you. You chose our side, to save one of our medicine cats. So, I mean, you've certainly got friends in the medicine den."
He spoke with a nonchalantness that always interested Nightpaw. Like everything was okay, even when the world thought otherwise.
Nightpaw felt rather undeserving of the quick forgiveness. He still felt he had alot to do to earn back the clan's respect, and he'd do it happily. He just hoped he wouldn't have to use his claws like that...ever ever again.
Yarrowcloud must have noticed something, because he gave a light sigh, admitting.
"He made his choices, Nightpaw, when he tried to take Slatesight's life. You made a choice to save Slatesight. And to do that, you had to kill Cloudpaw. Shadowblossom had a very similar experience. You should talk to her...but back to this. You're not at fault, you understand that?"
"How can I not be? ...I never wanted to k..kill him. But...but I couldn't let him kill Slatesight. I hated having to choose..." Nightpaw closed his eyes slowly, speaking faintly, words he hadn't really admitted to anyone before. Would Yarrowcloud tell everyone? Would he be annoyed by Nightpaw's inner thoughts?
"He was your brother. Of course you didn't want to." Yarrowcloud understands that much.
Nightpaw shuffled his paws, looking away for a moment.
"But you had to."
Yarrowcloud's voice reigned Nightpaw in, to which he nodded faintly, sighing.
"I..I had to..."
"It's okay to admit it, to me. To the clan, you know."
And that confuses Nightpaw alot. What did his mentor mean by that? Admit what? He wants to say he knows exactly what that is, but he's reluctant to. So, again, Yarrowcloud fills the quiet with assured words.
"That you loved him. That you cared about Cloudpaw enough to follow him away from here, and to stop him from losing his life to someone else by ending it first. That you still care about him."
And that certainly struck his chest with a painful ache. It was true. He did love him. Loved him and followed him and believed in him more than any other cat in this world.
Mourned him even when he was standing above his bloody body.
But how can the clan possibly be okay with that? Nightpaw wonders idly what Lightningstar would think, if he was still caught up in the rouge attack instead of his warrior training. The thought makes him bite his lip, and he replies with a swallow.
"Cloudpaw used to be good, so good. He...somewhere in there, he still was. I wish I had just brought that good out, just a little bit, enough to keep him alive...I hated fighting, I really did. Even when Cloudpaw excelled, I couldn't bring myself to do the same. But even so, I just...I wanted to see him happy. I don't think he ever was...I don't even know if he ever loved me back..." Nightpaw shrugged at that.
Yarrowcloud looked thoughtful for once, but not in that way Nightpaw sometimes saw. This was a somber kind of thoughtfulness. Understanding of a sort.
"Do you regret how you feel about Cloudpaw?"
The question has Nightpaw also pausing in deep thought. His answer is misty and tangled, all he can manage is a
"I...am not sure. Yes? No..?"
"Don't be. Don't regret it. Don't regret the love you felt for Cloudpaw. Through all the feelings and pain you experienced through him, you still cared for him. While it may seem like you shouldn't care for our enemy, he was still your kin. Even if he didn't seem to return the feelings, the fact that you feel guilt at his death shows me that you more of a warrior than anything else."
Nightpaw blinked at that, not used to his mentor speaking so deeply about something. Yarrowcloud was aloof and airy, not serious and solemn. But, that made Nightpaw realize once more that the tom had experienced life longer than Nightpaw had, had probably related to Nightpaw somehow by the sheer empathy in his voice.
"The difference between you and those rouges is that you feel remorse. You have a heart and a good head."
Nightpaw wanted to crouch at the praise, knowing he wouldn't see himself the way his mentor did in a long time. He glanced again at Yarrowcloud's marred face, tracing the guttural scars and shredded ear, down to the deep gashes on his shoulder and leg, all healed from a strike from a monster moons ago. The attack had taken Yarrowcloud's vision from the eye outlined in pink scar tissue and tufts of ginger fur. But he could still fight and smile and lay at Nightpaw's side in an effort to soothe Nightpaw's guilt.
Nightpaw blinked thoughtfully, before he gave a light smile and chuckled.
"Quite the speech."
Yarrowcloud finally turned to face him fully, good eye and bad eye gleaming with sheer victory.
"Enough to get a laugh out of you, finally. And they say I've got bees in my brain. This is exactly why I love mentoring."
Nightpaw tipped his head.
"Why's that?"
"As egotistical as it may sound, I like when a cat looks up to me. I'm aware of my personality, my constant need for companionship and chatter...but it's been nice being trusted to teach an apprentice. I have alot I want to give to my clan, to Lightningstar, and no matter how I may seem, I do take my duties seriously. I expect you to do the same." Yarrowcloud explained.
Nightpaw understood that much. There was always more to a cat than their pelt alone. The old apprentice finally stood back up, nodding his head. He understood now. No matter how much it hurt to remember Cloudpaw, he also knew pain led to recovery, recovery to happiness. Thunderclan was his home again, Slatesight was here. Yarrowcloud and Lightningstar and everyone else. He wasn't alone.
He'd remember Cloudpaw for the times he fought by his side to make a life in twolegplace, the way Cloudpaw led him with assurance that what they had done was worth something. He'd remember him for the good things, and mourn the bad things fleetingly.
It was time to make some new choices, new memories.
"Thank you Yarrowcloud. I'm ready to train. And this time, I won't let you down."
Yarrowcloud merely grinned, pulling himself up to begin the process of sparring once more.
"This time? You've yet to ever let me down, kit. Now, as I was saying, my injury means I can be vulnerable in battle. Everybody has a weakness, but mine can be easier to spot. Even so, I've trained to overcome many of my weaknesses." The smugness in the tom's voice made Nightpaw snort with humor.
"By having a big ego, Yarrowcloud?"
The warrior snorted right back.
"No, you nutball! Cheek! I use...tada!" He flicked his long and fluffy tail out proudly, exclaiming.
"My tail! It's like a replacement for my blind eye. Combine that with alot of training in reaction time and I'll snap my paw at you faster than a Greenleaf hornet. Lightningstar helped me out, like I'm going to help you out. I'm going to show you how to use anything you can to win a battle. Now, we're not enemies, but I still want you to know how to fight cats who could be similar to me. Take away my ability to sense my right side, and you'll have much easier time."
Nightpaw nodded, listening intently and already thinking of ways to hinder Yarrowcloud's blind side. He'd have to avoid that tail, that way Yarrowcloud couldn't feel him at all and retaliate with his sharp reaction time.
It felt good. This normality, this ability to fight and learn without fear of punishment or pain.
Yarrowcloud crouched, expectant and proudly addressing Nightpaw.
"Are you ready, Nightpaw?"
Nightpaw gave his own crouch, eyes wide with purpose. He replied, filling up with determination and purpose.
"Yes."
|
|
|
Post by Frozen on Aug 15, 2017 13:56:29 GMT -5
Yes!!! That's awesome!!
|
|
|
Post by Moonblazer on Sept 10, 2017 14:43:18 GMT -5
Peachdapple and Mossfeather: Mask
“Press...press the cobwebs to the wound. Yes, like that, Peachpaw.” Mossfeather’s voice was trembling again. At least, in that way that only Peachpaw could recognize. Any of the patients in the den wouldn’t have noticed it. But Peachpaw did, and it made her blood bubble with bitter exhasperation.
“I know what to do. They’re simple wounds, Mossfeather.”
Peachpaw snarked to her mentor, always easily snappish with this cat, which was something she’d always feel guilty about at the end of the day, but something she had come to feel naturally. She’d never really feel like a true medicine cat, even if the self-doubt, persuasion and dreams told her otherwise. Even so, there were times she felt Mossfeather only wanted her in this den for this exact reason.
Mossfeather, Thunderclan’s medicine cat, hated the sight of blood. It made her queasy, not that she’d ever show her clanmates, but Peachpaw knew better. Could see in her eyes. She, on the other paw, had no issue with blood, had bled during her first fight at Sunningrocks, the very one that made her feel so alive, yet also so useless when she got her tail handed to her by stupid Brookpaw and Icepaw.
The very one that helped her gain enough self-doubt to finally agree to Mossfeather’s offers to train in medicine. At least then she could be useful to the clan...
Peachpaw gritted her teeth when she heard the faint intake of breath from her mentor when she removed her bloody paws from Hailstorm’s side, the warrior easily stifling his pain with a grind of his teeth and a polite smile to the medicine cats. Mossfeather’s eyes flickered to the blood that had tainted Peachpaw’s ginger and white pelt, and Peachpaw felt a tiny trace of her want to rush up to her mentor and shake the blood at her just to get her to toughen up, for Starclan’s sake.
But the strong moral honor in her slashed away that thought. Who would she be if she was so petty as to rub Mossfeather’s fear in her face? No…
It still made her annoyed, though, that she was the one who now had to handle the cobwebs and closing the wounds while the old medicine cat divided the herbs and brought the water and all that. Peachpaw had realized a moon ago that she was being trained faster than alot of other medicine cats. She couldn’t fathom why, and when she tried to ask, Mossfeather had always seemed secretive, brushing off the curiosity and continuing to teach Peachpaw how to set a broken bone on the same day she learned how to use Coltsfoot.
Peachpaw wished her mentor just treated her like a strong equal instead of a rushed replacement. Did Mossfeather expect her former apprentices to deal with all the blood? Was that the only reason she had prodded and offered the rank many times to Peachpaw?
The thought ached in a part of Peachpaw that she had always believed herself too strong to dip into. She tried not to feel the longing to be wanted for her own skills instead of being wanted just for being available and able to deal with blood.
With fierce determination and attitude, Peachpaw drew in her memory and work ethic and beat Mossfeather to the punch when the older she-cat opened her jaws to address Hailstorm. Peachpaw mewed strongly.
“Your wound on your side is the worst of them, but the cobwebs and marigold are there to keep that from getting worse. Don’t lick at the wounds, and please, Hailstorm, don’t go on any patrols for a few days. I know it’s the worst to be cooped up in a nest, but you’re one of the strongest cats I’ve ever known. You’ll be good as new in no time! Oh, and make sure you take Chamomile for strength, too.”
Take that. She could do more than muddle in bloody wounds. She’d be better than Mossfeather if it menat she’d get the respect she wanted from the start. It was all she really wanted, to feel like she was bringing Thunderclan the honor it too deserved.
Mossfeather’s nod was quick, and Peachpaw weakly thought of the fact that she couldn’t tell if Mossfeather’s eyes were proud or upset. Well, either way, it seemed to make Hailstorm content, as the tom flicked his tail and mewed.
“Thank you. Yeah, it will be quite hard to stay off-duty for long, but I guess I can manage. You know your stuff, Peachpaw. I’m not surprised, with a mentor like Mossfeather.” The tom chuckled, before nodding respectfully to the old medicine cat and turning to leave the den, leaving Peachpaw feeling proud of herself, yet prickled at the concept that her success was again expected to be dictated by her mentor.
Any fighting move she acomplished, she knew it was Brackenshade that would have recieved the real credit, not her. She knew her thoughts were silly and immature, but she couldn’t help but think it. She’d just have to learn to deal with it, she supposed.
She could feel Mossfeather’s eyes on her back as she lazily inspected her bloody paws and shrugged, scampering out of the den to wash them off. Peachpaw didn’t respond to the stare.
--------------------
By the time the moon was high in the sky and most of the camp was fast asleep, Peachpaw found herself awake and full of thoughts. Mossfeather was awake too, though she hadn’t spoken much to Peachpaw since the incident with Hailstorm’s wounds.
Until now, when the old she-cat finally lifted her head from sorting some Juniper Berries.
“Peachpaw. You did a good job today. I’m impressed with how fast you’ve caught on to the herbs and treating wounds.”
Peachpaw was quiet for a moment, before she responded with a voice that was not accusing nor biting, but moreso observant.
“You’re uncomfortable with blood, Mossfeather. How have you gone this long as a medicine cat and still get anxious at the sight of blood? Doesn’t the clan get weary at that fact?”
Now it was Mossfeather’s turn to remain quiet, her mottled fur rising in a faint bristle of embarrassment. She turned her thin flank to face her apprentice, and Peachpaw couldn’t help but feel a bit upset with just how...tired, and old she looked. For even with Mossfeather’s shortcomings, Peachpaw still cared for her in her own way, as a clanmate and mentor.
“I hide it, Peachpaw. From cats that are not like you and me.”
Peachpaw wants to whine miserably, that they are not alike, that Peachpaw is not destined for this like Mossfeather was. That she would take pools of blood and battle and glory over herbs and moss and thorns in pads that Mossfeather drowned herself in. But the words stayed inside, and Peachpaw just listened to the advice that she would one day follow religiously.
“Medicine cats must hide their emotions when it comes to pain and death and...and blood, from most of the clan. We cannot be distracted by the lives of Warriors, not matter how many we heal or share tongues with. Yes...Peachpaw, I am a medicine cat who despises the sight of blood, but I also have witnessed more deaths in this clan than moons you’ve been alive, and I have trained apprentices who also needed to learn this. Make a face, Peachpaw, a flat one that serves only for honest comfort and acceptance, for that is the face of a medicine cat, my dear.” Mossfeather stared at the large apprentice for a few moments, before slowly turning back to her herbs.
She did speak again.
“I know this isn’t the responsibility you wanted, or felt you belonged to, but you’re still making your clan proud. Making me proud. You save lives and still help create Warriors for Thunderclan...Peachpaw, Thunderclan needs you here in this den more than you could imagine. I hope you’ll understand this one day.”
Peachpaw doesn’t speak at that. She just thinks and stares out of the medicine den, where the night patrol gathers and the stars flutter across Silverpelt with the moon to guide them.
--------------------
Peachdapple mastered the mask. The face her mentor had always spoken about. Had mastered it better than Mossfeather herself, who always had a notch in the mask at the sight of blood.
There is no notch in hers.
She buries cats who should have outlived her, groomed their dead bodies with a hum in her chest and eyes steeled stronger than any stone. She does not shake, or weep, or feel like she used to when she saw a cat die from the fiery fangs of the adders.
Dear mother, snakeroot came too late for her too.
Dustclaw is dead, and Peachdapple sits across from Thrushwing and Foxheart, who choke with misery and loss, while Flamestrike is lost with guilt and pain, Finchsong sniffing miserably. She doesn’t even pay attention to the rest of the clan.
This is the hardest part, really. She guessed that was why Mossfeather made this her most frequent lesson. Wear the mask, play the part. It’s the lesson Peachdapple did the best in. It made her feel strong, to make those in pain feel better.
Her insides will always burn with the vengeance and energy of a warrior who felt they didn’t do enough to save their fellow warrior. Will burn with self-hatred of a medicine cat who didn’t crush the snakeroot in enough time to make a difference.
The mask reminds her that Starclan is only a pawstep away. That she is not and will not ever be the warrior she yearned to be, and that not even a medicine cat could cure a snakebite across the territory in time. The mask is calm and empathetic, but unbreakable and stable. She clinged to it moons ago and has never let go.
Peachdapple’s voice has no waver or shake as she mewed.
“Dustclaw will be safe among the stars. There is nothing anyone could have done in this situation. I’m sorry for your loss…” The mask has a softness to it, but only for understanding and support. It hides the immaturity and pain Peachdapple feels, the warrior in her that screams
There had to be something that could have been done.
The mask is always stronger than the warrior.
She helps to bury the dead warrior later that night, and walks away as strongly as she had when she helped to carry Dustclaw’s body. She returns to her den and looks at Slatesight, who seems fine but will need to master the mask too. She knows he’ll do it. She doesn’t need to instill it in him as Mossfeather had in her. There was never much of a warrior in him.
Peachdapple lowered herself into her nest, and gazed out of the den. Her eyes caught sight of the night patrols, and the stars fluttering across Silverpelt and the moon guiding them, and she knew that there would be a new star chasing the moon tonight.
‘Mossfeather.’
She begins to speak in her mind.
‘There was not much blood this time, Mossfeather. A long time ago I would have been assured that you would have been able to save him. Thank you for teaching me better, you old furball. Sometimes Starclan calls us for the strangest reasons. For death, or for serving another purpose…’
Peachdapple rested her head on her paws.
‘Guide Dustclaw well, old healer. I await the day I can remove my mask, when it is me who you guide to the stars. Until then, Mossfeather.’
She lets the mask fade away with her mind, as she dreams of battles and she lets her heart grieve openly for Dustclaw and the others who she has seen die, in the silence and safety of herself.
She wonders if Mossfeather will join her.
|
|
|
Post by 🌙Moonpower🌙 on Sept 12, 2017 15:28:38 GMT -5
Closepaw's Promise A path was worn into the mud from where Closepaw's steps paced back and forth. A light sheet of rain was falling over the camp, echoing in the splashes of puddles and pine needles. Most of the warriors and apprentices were hiding in the dens, but Closepaw knew their eyes watched him pace. He didn't feel the rain as it fell on his golden brown fur. He didn't feel the chill in the air nor how the mud mucked his paws with every step. All he felt was hollow. His green eyes stared into the tread he was wearing into the mud, his tail flicking at every turn in unacceptable anxiousness, and his ears were pinned back against his head. This couldn't be happening. Anything but this. Crimsonpaw was sitting only a fox-length away, under the shelter of a bramble's branches. His head followed Closepaw's movements, but he didn't dare say a word. His ruby colored tail was laid over his paws, its tip flicked every now and then in sharing of his brother's worry.
Talonkit and Lizardkit had slipped out of camp earlier that day. The two young brothers didn't understand why their father hadn't come to see them in a while and decided that they were going to go look for him. It ached at Closepaw that the Clan's newest kits didn't understand that their father was dead. Tigerfrost had been killed by a badger on a hunting patrol. Redleaf was frantic when she realized her kits were gone and it was Jaggedclaw who was the first to race out of the camp to search for them. The badger was still out there. Patrols were swiftly sent out to find the missing kits. It felt like ages went by when Closepaw's patrol finally found them.
The badger was dead when they arrived, a massive mound of matted fur and blood. Its black eyes were clawed from its sockets, and seeing it coursed disturbance through Closepaw's bones. However, the badger didn't matter. No one cared about the fury that was unleashed on it that mutilated it so. No, they only cared about Jaggedclaw and the kits.
A cry of agony broke from Closepaw's throat when he first saw his father. Jaggedclaw was laying on the ground, covered in his own blood. One of his paws was horribly twisted, his mouth was gaped open as his sides rose with ragged breaths, but he was curled protectively around the unharmed Talonkit and Lizardkit. Jaggedclaw's ears were twitching toward every noise that was made and his claws were still bared. He wasn't going to let anyone hurt his brother's sons.
"Grab the kits, we need to get Jaggedclaw to Blizzardstorm." Bateyes was quick to rush to his sister's son, instinct had him licking a few of Jaggedclaw's wounds before he nudged him to get up. "Are you alright, Jaggedclaw?" Jaggedclaw winced at Bateyes' touch. "The kits."
"Their fine." Closepaw's green eyes were wide as he watched his father lean against Bateyes and the other warriors. Jaggedclaw's blood loss blurred his mind and on the way back to camp, he passed out. Closepaw's stomach was knotted with worry as he herded Talonkit and Lizardkit back to camp.
The rain had started when they entered the camp. Jaggedclaw was immediately brought to the medicine den and the kits were returned to Redleaf. Now all they could do was wait.
Closepaw didn't allow himself to rest. His muscles were too tense and restless to sit still, so he paced. Fear for his hero threatened tears to his eyes, but he let the hollowness in his gut burn them away. Jaggedclaw was the greatest warrior in the Clan and was known by the rest of the Clans for his fierce and unforgiving battle style, but his hunting skills were the worst in the forest. Closepaw held him higher than any other cat in the forest. He couldn't be prouder to call Jaggedclaw his father and everyday he strived to be just like him. Jaggedclaw had just killed a badger single-pawed! A feat no cat ever dared to accomplish! But now, Jaggedclaw was fighting for his life in the medicine den. Blizzardstorm and Frostshard were working as best as they could to mend the injuries of the fighting tom, but in Closepaw's heart, he knew his father was ready to join StarClan. Darkshadow and Tigerfrost, Jaggedclaw's two brothers were dead. When they had gone, Jaggedclaw lost his connection to the Clan, his cold demeanor left untamed. No one could get close to Jaggedclaw with how much he distanced himself. He didn't even live for the Clan anymore, instead he lived for six cats: Talonkit, Lizardkit, Songkit, Northkit, Crimsonpaw, and Closepaw. These young cats were the only kin that Jaggedclaw had left, no one else mattered. He would take his son's to the training hollow and work them hard to perfect their battle training, to make sure that they couldn't be beaten and when they failed, he made them do it over and over again until they got it right. No kind words were given, only strict, disciplined training, and the two brothers ate up every second of it. Closepaw even preferred training with his father instead of his own mentor. With the kits, Jaggedclaw started training them in the camp. He was kinder to them, especially the youngest: Lizardkit and Talonkit. Lizardkit had his father's excellent hunting skills while Talonkit was a better fighter. Songkit was more timid, but with Northkit's encouragement, they made a great team. Closepaw liked to watch Northkit, there was no denying the potential that she had.
"Closepaw, maybe you should sit down?" Crimsonpaw continued to follow his brother's pacing. "I'm sure he'll be ok, Jaggedclaw's a fighter."
Closepaw shook his head. "No, I won't rest until I know he's going to make it." Crismonpaw was always the stronger of the two of them. Where Closepaw excelled in physical fighting, it was Crimsonpaw that understood life better. He understood that nothing lasted forever and he was comforted by the fact that when cats did pass on, they watched over them in StarClan. He was more than content waiting to see their loved ones again, because he knew: no matter how long it took, they would see each other again.
"Closepaw, Crimsonpaw." Blizzardstorm poked his head out of the medicine den, his face was grim. "Your father wants to talk to you."
Dread. Closepaw could feel nothing but dread at the medicine cat's words. His body felt empty and terrified horror froze him in his steps. Crimsonpaw had to nudge him to get him to move. Closepaw looked at his brother. Crimsonpaw had sorrow washing onto his face with the cold touch of the rain. No one needed to say it. They knew. They had to say good-bye.
Jaggedclaw was laying on his side when they entered the medicine den. His torn body was wrapped with cobwebs and herb poultices. Jaggedclaw's twisted paw had been rest, but his breathing was weakening. Frostshard looked over at the apprentices when they came in, but Closepaw didn't see him. His eyes were locked onto his father, his breaths choking from the grief that compressed his chest. He stepped up to his father, nudging his nose against his father's cheek. "Dad..." he barely breathed.
"My sons." Jaggedclaw's amber eyes barely opened in reply to Closepaw. He was heavy with exhaustion, but a smile cracked his lips seeing Closepaw and Crimsonpaw. "Know that I love you."
"You're going to be okay, dad." Closepaw's voice cracked in grief and his tears once again threatened his eyes. He felt Crismonpaw laid his tail over his shoulders.
"We did all we could." Frostshard mewed behind them. "But his wounds are too great."
"No!" Closepaw shook his head. "No! You can't leave us!"
"It is my time, Closepaw." Jaggedclaw never looked away from them. "It is time I go to my brothers. You will be just fine without me."
Closepaw pressed into his father's fur, grief shattering his composure. "No! You can't go!"
"Take care of them, Closepaw." Jaggedclaw's tail flicked around his son. "Take care of your cousins. Don't let my brothers' legacies be lost. Crimsonpaw." He looked to the ruby colored tom.
"I'm here." Crimsonpaw pressed his nose to his father's. His ears were back in grief, but understanding smoothed his face. "We'll see you in StarClan, dad."
"Promise me, both of you, that you will be the best warriors you can be." Jaggedclaw coughed weakly. "Promise me, Closepaw, you'll look after your cousins."
Closepaw couldn't form words as grief choked his throat. He buried his head in his father's fur, his ears pinned against his head. This shouldn't be happening. This couldn't be happening. "I'll make you proud, dad." Crimsonpaw promised with a nod.
Jaggedclaw turned his amber eyes to Closepaw when the golden brown tom staid silent. "Closepaw."
"I promise." Closepaw choked the words out as tears fell from his eyes and onto his father's fur. "I won't let anything happen to Lizardkit, Talonkit, Songkit, or Northkit. I swear to you, I'll be the greatest warrior in the clans!" He looked his father in the eye. "I swear it." Jaggedclaw's tail gently brushed down Closepaw's side. He nodded slowly, gradually laying his head down in the mossy nest once again. His amber eyes closed and he let out a satisfied breath. "I'm ready, brothers." The rain fell harder from the darkened sky. All but the kits, queens, and elders were sitting in silent vigil around the body of Jaggedclaw, the last of Moonstar's sons. Closepaw kept his face buried in his father's fur, the sweet scent of the herbs wafting his nose, but he paid it no mind. He was numb. His father was gone. His mother was gone. His closest kin left was his brother. Crimsonpaw was currently right next to him. His eyes were closed in respect of their fallen father, but he didn't appear grieved. Closepaw knew his brother cared just as much as he did, he just had an easier time controlling his emotions. All night, Closepaw staid there. The rain continued through it all and chased a few of their clanmates back under the shelter of the dens. Blizzardstorm and Frostshard encouraged cats to find shelter, the Clan couldn't take a bout of sickness. It was Closepaw and Crimsonpaw who remained constant at their father's side. Neither of them moved, neither of them spoke, they only kept their heads bowed in their father's wet fur, taking in his scent as much as they could until they wouldn't be able to anymore. When morning finally came, the sky only dripped water down upon them. The elders gathered to take Jaggedclaw's body away and if it weren't for Crimsonpaw, Closepaw would've protested. The brothers watched their father's body go with heavy hearts. Crimsonpaw flexed his claws, remembering his promise. He glanced at Closepaw only once before running to the warrior's den to find his mentor, abandoning the thought of sleep. Closepaw let him go. For once, he didn't feel like training. His paws felt heavy and the weight of the rain pulled at his now muddied fur, but he knew he couldn't sleep if he tried. I'll see him again in StarClan he tried to convince himself. This is only a temporary good-bye. But how long was temporary? He didn't even see me become a warrior... "Eeew! The ground's all muddy!" "It did rain last night, mousebrain!"
Closepaw broke out of his thoughts at the interruption of the tiny voices. Songkit and Northkit were coming out of the nursery, their mother, Dappleleaf, right behind them. Northkit had pounced on her sister and pushed her into the mud, getting her sister's soft gray pelt all dirty. "Mom!" Songkit complained loudly.
"Northkit, what did I tell you about being rough with your sister?" Dappleleaf purred softly as she watched her daughters.
"Jaggedclaw said to always take advantage of your opponent"s weaknesses!" Northkit jumped to a stalking crouch, her tail sticking straight up in the air, and her blue eyes shone with readiness. "When you can take the upper paw, you take it!"
The little kit's words pricked at Closepaw's heart and he was already missing his father. How was anyone going to tell them that Jaggedclaw was dead? That their sparing warrior had gone to StarClan? Closepaw hung his head and sighed, the Clan felt a little less protected now that Jaggedclaw was dead.
"Hey, Closepaw!"
The two little she-kits were running his way with bright and excited eyes. At the nursery entrance, Lizardkit and Talonkit were poking their heads out. "Closepaw, look what we can do!" Songkit tried tackling her sister, but Northkit slipped out of the way; however, she lost her balance and fell. When she hit the ground, mud splattered up on Closepaw.
The apprentice blinked when the mud hit his face, he flicked his ear and looked down at Northkit. "You'll have to be extra careful with your footing on this slippery mud." He would've lifted his paw to clean off his face, but his paws were still mud covered from his pacing last night. "You gotta feel the ground below your paws. Always be aware of your balance and your surroundings."
"That's a lot to remember." Songkit disgustedly flicked mud off her paw. Lizardkit and Talonkit were curiously coming over. "How do warriors remember everything?"
"By practicing everyday and beating their bodies to perfect every form." Closepaw repeated the words his father once told him. He nudged Northkit back to her paws and his mind slipped to the promise he had made his father. These were his cousins, his kin. They were the last ones that remained his father's beloved brothers, the last of Moonstar's bloodline. He felt a bit of warmth spark in his hollowed heart as he watched Northkit tackle Songkit again and when Talonkit tried to copy what she did. Closepaw glanced up at the sky, the stars of silverpelt were lost in the morning light, but he knew his father would be watching. I promise, he repeated in his mind. He looked to the young kits in front of him. I promise I'll take care of them.
|
|
|
Post by Moonblazer on Sept 12, 2017 15:33:56 GMT -5
(*faints from awesomeness*)
|
|
|
Post by 🌙Moonpower🌙 on Sept 12, 2017 15:42:54 GMT -5
(lol thanks xD)
|
|
|
Post by Moonblazer on Sept 12, 2017 15:54:55 GMT -5
(I love these little drabbles, bruh.)
|
|
|
Post by 🌙Moonpower🌙 on Sept 12, 2017 17:05:55 GMT -5
(Hmm, what story should I write next?)
|
|
|
Post by Frozen on Sept 12, 2017 17:10:18 GMT -5
Write something about... Ottermask)
|
|
|
Post by Moonblazer on Sept 12, 2017 17:11:33 GMT -5
(OOH OTTERMASK STORY WOULD HELP DIAMONDHEART STORY)
|
|
|
Post by 🌙Moonpower🌙 on Sept 12, 2017 17:16:07 GMT -5
(Ottermask...yeah, I guess he's got a few defining moments in his life. I'll think of something )
|
|
|
Post by 🌙Moonpower🌙 on Sept 13, 2017 20:52:21 GMT -5
Ottermask's Fear Blood was everywhere. The scarlet liquid washed upon the hill, trickling in streams before seeping into the ground to feed the roots of the four great oaks. Its metallic scent dominated the stilling air. Dawn was rising over the treetops, casting a hazy glow of orange and violet across the sky in painted artwork. Not a songbird was heard this grave morning, the overpowering scent of blood chasing them and other wildlife away. Only cats remained. Many laid on the ground, motionless with blood spilled from different parts of their bodies. Others remained on their paws, not daring to move. Their own blood was speckled upon their pelts and leaked into the soil below them. No one made a sound in the still of the morning, their eyes shifted uneasily, hesitantly, as if the forest were about to swallow them whole.
Suddenly as slim black she-cat bounded upon the Great Rock, a white, four-pointed star upon her forehead. Her blue eyes shifted over the cats in the clearing once her stance was secure. Her night colored pelt was flayed in some places, her own blood cut out by scratches and bite marks. On her neck was a healed over wound. The cats in the clearing only stared at her, waiting. The she-cat turned her eyes to two bodies that spilled their blood into the ground. The first was a tom with pitch black fur, adder fangs marked on his muzzle, while the second was a she-cat with white fur stained scarlet. She had black paws and a ginger underbelly. Their once hate-filled eyes now stared empty at nothing.
The she-cat turned her eyes to a tom with a blaze patterned pelt. A single nod was swapped between the two of them. "ShadowClan," the she-cat called out over the crowd. "Gather our dead. It's time to go home." She didn't say anymore and jumped down from the Great Rock. She swapped curt nods with a golden brown tom with specks on his legs and a stripe down his side, and a patchy and old scarred she-cat, but she paused at a dark silver she-cat with white paws and tail tip. The ShadowClan leader swapped a few words with her before she gathered her Clan, her dead, and left.
Otterpaw didn't see any of it. His pale blue eyes were widened on the blood on his paws. He could feel it seeping into his fur and lathering the skin beneath. He dared not move from his spot. With every pawstep, the ground squished and oozed the scarlet liquid into puddles around his paws. Adrenaline still raced through his body from the chaos that had raged through the night. He was shaking heavily, the sound of his heartbeat drowning out all other noise. When he finally had the courage to look for any hope that came with the dawn. He saw the body of his mother.
Her silver blue fur was matted and streaked with blood and her blue eyes shone no more. He could only stare at her. Frozen in place, Otterpaw's mouth only parted in horror. If anyone should've survived the night, it was her. He slowly turned his gaze to the black tom with the viper's markings, a tom he called brother. Even with all the hate in his heart, Otterpaw had thought his brother still held love for their mother and that love would let her be spared, but Poolfrost was just another victim to Adderstar's rage.
Blazepelt was speaking to them. The noble tom stood over Adderstar's body, his voice offering encouragement of those that remained, but Otterpaw couldn't hear any of it over the sound of his own heartbeat. Behind Blazepelt, he spotted his sister, Frostlake. Sorrow covered her face and her own ears didn't hear what Blazepelt was saying. Her grieved blue eyes were staring down at Adderstar. All she did was stare at him for the longest time, before finally, she dipped her head in regret and turned away. Otterpaw wanted to go to her, Frostlake had been treated poorly for her brother's actions, but she stood against his darkness. Otterpaw looked back at Adderstar and a chill gripped his stomach. Most of what he could remember had been under Adderstar's leadership. He could've ended up just like him.
"Are you ok?"
Otterpaw nearly jumped out of his skin when those three simple words spoke louder than his racing heart. His claws instinctively slid out and he whipped around to face what came near him.
"Easy, Otterpaw." The approached tom took a step back. He stood a little bit larger than Otterpaw, his blood-stained white fur had patches of silver that use to shine, but in the mess of the night, there was nothing pleasing about any of them. "It's just me."
"Sorry, Diamondpaw." Otterpaw sighed. He turned his head back toward the ground, the weight of the night was finally settling on him. When he looked over at his mother's body, his throat lurched.
"Do you think it's over?" Diamondpaw's voice was barely a whisper. His aqua eyes were stolen to Adderstar's body.
Grief kindled inside of Otterpaw. Over. What exactly was over? AdderClan? His brother was dead, his mother was dead, what did that mean? What would happen now? Otterpaw glanced over at Blazepelt. Blazepelt claimed that Adderstar had stolen leadership of RiverClan from him and he had allied with the other Clans when Adderstar combined RiverClan and SkyClan to create AdderClan. Otterpaw barely remembered what life was like when AdderClan had been RiverClan, but he did remember what his brother did to them.
There had been a time when Otterpaw looked up to his brother. As a warrior, Adderstar gave his heart and soul to RiverClan, but once he claimed leadership, he started doing things Otterpaw didn't recognize. At first, he gave his brother the benefit of the doubt. Adderstar knew what RiverClan needed to be strong, he was their leader and his word was law, but the darkness that swirled and entangled Otterpaw's mind at night...that had been terrifying. Frostlake and Poolfrost warned him of the darkness that Adderstar wanted the Clan to bend too. Adderstar wanted them to be killers, to rule over every territory in the forest, to rule under him. Failure was not an option in AdderClan and those that were too weak to prove any sort of worth were forced to serve those that were strong. Lilypetal had given her life to allow some warriors a chance to escape in order to find help and those warriors found Blazepelt.
Then came the day of the challenge. Blazepelt himself had entered AdderClan's camp and challenged Adderstar and Robinstar, the leaders of AdderClan to a battle for the forest. It would occur on the night of the full moon, a time meant for peace, but peace had been broken long ago. Many of the warriors of AdderClan called for Blazepelt's blood then and there, killing him would end the squabbling for RiverClan's leadership, but Adderstar still had some honor. Blazepelt was sent away untouched and Adderstar vowed that all of StarClan would witness their precious clans fall.
But it was Adderstar that had fallen. His body laid near the Great Rock with Robinstar's and satisfaction settled in every eye that looked upon them. Every eye except for Otterpaw and Frostlake. The bodies of the dark leaders' followers were also scattered around the hill. Tinyspark, Waspstrike, Cavernshade, Creeksplash. There was a relief in Diamondpaw's eyes when he looked at Tinyspark. "She can't hurt you anymore." Otterpaw heard himself say when he looked at his friend.
The edge of Diamondpaw's lip cracked upward. "You're right, she can't." He looked back at Otterpaw. "You never answered my question."
Otterpaw gave a numbed shrug. "I guess its over."
"Not that question, Otterpaw." Diamondpaw looked over toward Poolfrost, his eyes glistening with sorrow, before he looked Otterpaw in the eye. "Are you ok?"
Otterpaw didn't reply. Was he supposed to be ok? Probably not. He didn't know how he was supposed to feel. He just felt empty. He didn't know what was to happen after this. They had been AdderClan apprentices, would they be allowed to be RiverClan apprentices? He looked over at Blazepelt. Frostlake was speaking to him. Sealily was speaking to him. Yes. The she-cats would be able to convince Blazepelt in letting them remain. As long as they swore their loyalty to RiverClan.
Blazepelt wasted no time. Otterpaw never got to answer Diamondpaw when the flame-pelted tom addressed them. They would be RiverClan again. The Cats of SkyClan would not be allowed within their borders. Blazepelt left Earthheart in charge with the orders to bury the AdderClan warriors and bring the RiverClan dead back to camp for vigil. He then left for Highstones, eager to receive his nine lives.
Otterpaw moved over to his mother, Diamondpaw staying back. Frostlake met him at Poolfrost's body, her eyes fell on him with sorrow. "You did well tonight, little brother. Mother and your father must be very proud." She licked Otterpaw's forehead. "You're truly a warrior." Otterpaw didn't reply. He had a different father than Frostlake and Adderstar. His father was the noble Lionfang. Frostlake's father was the evil Blackadder. It had been Blackadder's fault Adderstar fell to darkness--at least, that's what Otterpaw liked to think. "Where is Shimmerpaw?" Frostlake asked.
That single question brought Otterpaw's mind back to focus faster than a monster on the thunderpath. Shimmerpaw, his full blooded sister. They had never left each other's side since they were kits. He scrambled to think of the last time he saw her. They had both plunged into the chaos of the battle together, but after that, he lost her and he had been too overwhelmed by everything to even think of finding her.
Otterpaw perked his ears up to listen for his sister's voice. His eyes darting to every cat to find her. Oh, StarClan don't let one of the bodies they mourned tonight be hers. "I-I dunno."
Frostlake had bent over to grab their mother's body, but she paused at Otterpaw's words. "What?" She looked at him.
"I-I dunno!" Otterpaw stammered again as he twisted around to search for her. He parted his mouth to locate her scent, but there was nothing to taste but blood.
"Earthheart!" Frostlake called over to the warrior. "We need to find Shimmerpaw."
The tom nodded. "Go."
Diamondpaw quickly ran over. "I'll come too!"
Neither Frostlake or Earthheart protested. Otterpaw flashed his friend a grateful look, but didn't say anything as he ran after Frostlake. He would search the whole clearing and the surrounding territories to find his sister if he had too.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ A moon had gone by and Shimmerpaw was still missing. Her body hadn't been found among those at Fourtrees. Some believed she fled, others believed she received a fatal wound and left the battle to join StarClan on her own. Otterpaw had asked Blazestar if the leader saw her in StarClan, but didn't know whether or not to be relieved when the new leader simply shook his head. Frostlake and Streampool finished his and Diamondpaw's training and the two became warriors: Ottermask and Diamondheart, but to Ottermask the ceremony felt hollow without Shimmerpaw at his side.
The Clan was still recovering. The camp was tense with those that had followed AdderClan and those that remained true to RiverClan. Then there was the matter of Adderstar's kits. Three little kits born to both leaders of AdderClan. Sealily mothered them and bared her teeth at any cat who dared to say they didn't belong here. Venomkit was the sweetest of them and she seemed happy with the change to RiverClan, while her sister Jaguarkit frequently missed her parents and showed only bitterness to everyone. The third kit was Deadkit. Ottermask felt pity for him. The only son of Adderstar and Robinstar was deformed and could hardly talk. He had been abandoned by Robinstar and Adderstar at birth, but Sealily took care of him.
Ottermask watched the kits now. Venomkit and Deadkit were playing together while Jaguarkit sat bitterly by the nursery, refusing to join in. Watching them, Ottermask felt a pang of sorrow and his heart ached for his sister.
"Ottermask, you up for a patrol?"
Earthheart, deputy of RiverClan, was coming over to him, two other warriors with him. Ottermask only replied with a nod and stood up. Patrolling helped distract him from his sister.
Earthheart led them to the back territory, a long stretch of land where kittypets were the only issues. With the shining sun overhead, Ottermask suspected most kittypets would be lazily laying in it and not testing their borders.
Halfway through the patrol, Ottermask froze in his tracks. A scent drifted across his nose, one he had known since birth. "Shimmerpaw," He breathed in disbelief. He glanced over at Earthheart and the warriors ahead. I have to find her. If he hesitated, he could lose the scent. Without a word to the others, he crossed the border to chase after his sister's trail. He didn't pause for anything. Ottermask stayed focused on the scent. The trail led him into the twoleggedplace. He ran past dogs and monsters, towering nests, and stray cats, but he didn't falter. He had to find his sister.
And there she was. The scent led Ottermask up on a fence post and Shimmerpaw was on the other side. She glowed in the light of the sun. Her blue-silver pelt shimmering like light upon the rivers ripples. Her laugh carried to Ottermask's ears as she pawed at an older gray tom, but what caught his eyes first was the collar around her neck.
Ottermask never said anything, but it wasn't a few moments later when she spotted him. Her eyes lit up with surprised alarm and she jumped to her paws. When Ottermask dropped into the garden, she back away from him. The older tom she had playing with stepped between them, baring his teeth. "What do you want, outsider?"
At the gray tom's hostility, Ottermask immediately bared his own teeth. From his scent, Ottermask guessed he was a loner. "I want you to get out of my way."
"Like I'm going to let some mangy stray like you anywhere near Miss. Shimmer."
"Gregory..." Shimmerpaw flattened her ears and took another step back. Her eyes shifted wearily at Ottermask, but then looked to the ground.
Ottermask slid his claws out. "You really think it's wise to cross claws with a RiverClan warrior?"
Gregory paused. His ears perked forward at what Ottermask said and his hostility slipped away. "RiverClan?" He glanced back at Shimmerpaw. "Shimmer, do you know this tom?"
Shimmerpaw didn't look at either of them. A guilt blended with shame on her soft, dazzling face. "He's my brother..."
Gregory straightened up. He glanced from Ottermask to Shimmerpaw and back again, his ear flicking awkwardly. "Well..."
"Shimmerpaw, what are you doing here? I've been worried sick!" Ottermask stepped toward his sister when Gregory backed down. He felt so relieved to see her, but he was muddled with confusion as well. Why was she here? What was she doing with a collar around her neck? Had she been captured by twolegs? Why was she playing with this Gregory cat?
Why didn't she come back to him?
Shimmerpaw pulled away from him when Ottermask stepped closer. When Gregory saw this, he took a place between her and Ottermask once again. His eyes were firm as he looked at Ottermask. The RiverClan warrior opened his mouth to threaten the tom to step aside, but Shimmerpaw spoke.
"My name is Shimmer now."
Ottermask blinked in surprise, a cold stiffness clutching his body. "Shimmer?"
She wouldn't look at him. "I live here with my twolegs now, Otterpaw."
"With your--?" Ottermask took a step back. He looked past her and at the twolegged nest. It was large, sturdy, and through the back door he could a twoleg walking around inside. He looked back at her, hardly recognizing her. "What about RiverClan? What about your training? What about--"
"What about them?!" Shimmer suddenly snapped. She lashed her tail and looked him in the eye. "You want me to go back to AdderClan? Go back to the fear of not being good enough in Adderstar's eyes? That if I can't measure up, I'll be..." She trailed off when gasps of fear broke from her throat, but she shook her head and regained her strength. "I'm not going back to that bloodshed and chaos! I don't want to be a warrior! I don't want to fight every day to survive! That life isn't for me, Otterpaw!"
The grief in her voice quieted him. Ottermask felt his heart grow heavy with every word, he would've gone to her if Gregory wasn't blocking the way. "It's isn't like that anymore," he said. "AdderClan is gone. Blazestar leads RiverClan now. The forest is finally in peace."
"But it won't stay that way." Shimmer closed her eyes in regret. "Otterpaw, it never stays that way. It's only a matter of time before another cat tries to take control. Before ShadowClan gets greedy for territory or ThunderClan demands Sunningrocks. Nothing but blood is spilled in that forest."
Ottermask looked away from her and down at the ground in front of him. He knew she was right and he saw her fear. There was no way couldn't force her to go back with him. "You left me."
Shimmer immediately looked at him, her ears falling back against her head in fear that she hurt him. "I didn't want to!" she cried. "Otterpaw, I wanted to come tell you where I was!" She turned her eyes down again, her voice grew soft. "But I was afraid..."
Ottermask didn't reply. He glanced at Gregory. Shimmer looked so broken, he only wanted to hold her. Gregory seemed to read the look in his eyes and he stepped away. "You didn't need to be afraid." Ottermask moved over to his sister. He pressed against her and licked her forehead. "I understand."
"I'm so sorry, Otterpaw."
He stayed with her for a while. Gregory left them to take the time they needed and Ottermask told her everything that happened. They grieved their mother's death, but Shimmer was glad to know Adderstar was dead. Ottermask told her of his warrior ceremony and everything that was happening back in RiverClan, but the sun was starting to dip lower into the sky and he knew he had to be getting back. "I'll come visit you when I can," Ottermask promised her. "I'm so glad you're ok, Shimmer."
"I love you, brother." Shimmer pressed against him. "Please be safe."
Ottermask had just left Shimmer's garden when he froze in his tracks again. Waiting on the other side of the fence was Earthheart. The deputy was sitting calmly against the fence, near a hole that had allowed him to hear everything. Ottermask flattened his ears in fear of the deputy's reprimanding, but Earthheart only stood up. "We need to tell the Clan."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"You vile, treacherous spawn of darkness! You stay away from my daughter!"
"Ottermask, don't!"
"That's my nephew, Diamondheart, get out of my way!"
"If I let you go, RiverClan could lose you too!"
Ottermask's pale eyes were wide as he stared back at his friend. Across the camp, Earthstar was bearing over the timid and broken form of Deadpaw. Earthstar was Deadpaw's mentor and had shown support to the broken cat since AdderClan's defeat, but the last few days Earthstar had been treating his apprentice like the son of darkness he was. Jagaur was gone. The bitter daughter of Adderstar and Robinstar had betrayed the clan, killed one of their clanmates, and it was rumored that she had something to do with Blazestar's sudden deaths. Jaguar was still out there, still brewing trouble around the five Clans and seeding worry into the hearts of RiverClan warriors. Venompaw was Ottermask's apprentice. Ottermask made sure that the clan had no room to doubt her loyalty. Unlike her sister, Venompaw was kind. She helped everywhere she can. Some had speculated that she might become a medicine cat with how gentle she was, but Ottermask knew that Venompaw had a warrior's heart and that she was falling for the Clan's young deputy.
Deadpaw was stuck in the middle. He had a strong desire to prove himself worthy enough to be a warrior, but that desire was easily mistaken as his father's ambition. Deadpaw wasn't allowed to go anywhere alone anymore. Earthstar suspected he might meet up with Jaguar and that they would plot against RiverClan, against him. It was Shellpaw, Earthstar's daughter, that always volunteered to go with him. Ottermask saw the way the two looked at each other. Shellpaw didn't have any of the pity that others showed Deadpaw in her eyes when she looked at the broken apprentice. She saw him for the heart he had under his fur and Deadpaw's single eye looked back at her with bashfulness. It was easy for Ottermask to tell that Deadpaw felt like the luckiest tom in the forest whenever he was standing next to Shellpaw, but no one else saw it.
They only saw Deadpaw's heritage. They only saw the sins of his father and grandfather, they blamed him for Jaguar's crimes. Expected him to turn against them. Deadpaw was loosing support in the Clan. Streampool had been poisoned and killed by Jaguar, Fogstorm and Sealily had drowned in a flood. Ottermask, Frostlake, and Diamondheart were doing their best to show the Clan that Deadpaw wasn't like his father and they were making progress, gaining cats like Paleeyes, Tinypool, Wiltedwillow, on their side, but then Earthstar started accusing the young tom and the leader's word was law.
Deadpaw's fur was spiked with fear as Earthstar continued toward him, accusing him of his father's and sister's crimes. The broken apprentice scrambled backward, but with one limp paw and a dead hanging tail, he was tripping over himself.
"Diamondheart, he's my kin!" Ottermask tried to break around the deputy. His heart aching at Deadpaw's fear, but Diamondheart's large body wouldn't let him pass. "I can't lose him too!"
"And RiverClan can't lose you." Diamondheart's ears were back with regret as he looked at Ottermask. "We can't help him now, Ottermask, Earthstar's word is law."
Deadpaw suddenly bolted. Tripping over his own paws, he scrambled his broken body to the camp entrance. His single blue eyes was wide with fear and his fur was as spiked as a porcupine. Had Deadpaw been able to move his tail, it would've been tucked between his legs.
Horror split through Ottermask's body when he heard Earthstar's voice command exile over Deadpaw. Venompaw whimpered from her place by the apprentice den. Shellpaw cried out in protest. Ottermask tried to go after his nephew.
"You go after him and Earthstar's paranoia will label you a traitor!" Diamondheart blocked his way again, but his eyes were shattered with conflict at the wrong done to the young apprentice.
Ottermask raked his claws into the sandy ground. A grief clapped over him, choking his throat and numbing his core. There had to be something he could do for Deadpaw! That little tom had no chance against the wild on his own. No, he'll go to SkyClan. SkyClan was the home of Spiritstar, Robinstar's sister and Deadpaw's aunt. Deadpaw would know his best chances were with them and Spiritstar would take him in. But he belongs here. Ottermask closed his eyes in regret. Maybe he hadn't done enough for Deadpaw? He hadn't been able to save Adderstar, he didn't even know how to try. He hadn't saved Poolfrost in the Dark Battle, but he had been trying to save his own life, and he couldn't save his aunt, Fogstorm, from the flood. He clearly hadn't supported Jaguar enough. No, he had made a choice when it came to his brother's kits and he had chosen Venompaw. He made sure she could protect herself, he made sure her loyalty wouldn't be doubted, and in doing so Jaguar and Deadpaw were lost in the Clan's eyes.
Ottermask met the eyes of Frostlake across the camp, his half-sister shared his guilt and regret, it was as plain as her blue eyes. Almost all of the rest of his kin was gone in one way or another, but Frostlake had always remained. That thought pricked fear into his gut. When will I lose you too?
|
|
|
Post by Moonblazer on Sept 13, 2017 21:16:03 GMT -5
(OMG THAT WAS INCREDIBLEEEEE)
|
|
|
Post by 🌙Moonpower🌙 on Sept 13, 2017 21:18:22 GMT -5
(I don't quite remember how each scene went down to the letter, but I'm pretty sure that's the jist of it)
|
|
|
Post by Moonblazer on Sept 13, 2017 21:19:26 GMT -5
(AU OR CANON IDC THAT WAS INCREDIBLE OMG YOU CHARACTERIZED DIAMONDHEART ON. THE. DOT AND THAT MAKES ME SO HAPPY AND OTTERMASK AND DEADPAW AND HNGGG)
|
|
|
Post by Frozen on Sept 13, 2017 21:24:52 GMT -5
THAT WAS SO GOOD! The only thing I have to comment on is that Blazestar never returned from his nine lives ceremony, so I don't think Earth was officially deputy... I know he was chosen to be but Blaze left and he got the omen from Rain making him straight leader. I do like this pacing though, it's cool to see how it would've worked if Blazestar hadn't left.)
|
|
|
Post by 🌙Moonpower🌙 on Sept 13, 2017 21:52:39 GMT -5
I know Blazer never came back, but I didn't want to do that to RiverClan. I thought it would throw more shade on Jaguar if I hinted that she had something to do with his deaths.
|
|
|
Post by Moonblazer on Sept 13, 2017 22:15:57 GMT -5
(Bruh new blazer is best blazer )
|
|
|
Post by Moonblazer on Sept 13, 2017 22:31:49 GMT -5
Diamondheart and Earthstar Drabble: Faith
“Earthstar…”
Diamondheart’s voice had always been full of gentle respect, kind thoughtfulness and genuine desire to please. Though, as it echoed through the dark den of the broad shouldered and brown furred leader before him, Diamondheart believed that he sounded hesitant and weak again.
He refused to think about the last time he talked like that, below Adderstar’s claws after the screams couldn’t come out and only a whispering plead filled his voice and mind and heart, the blood of a kit who refused to draw blood from another to train, blooming and turning white and silver to red and-...
No. He hasn’t been Adderclan for moons...maybe one day he wouldn’t think of himself as Adderclan and just as Riverclan, like it had been when Rain stood warm and strong in the nursery and let his name spill out for the world to hear. He missed her.
He’d never miss Adderstar, and Blazepelt...star...he never really came back, did he?
Earthstar had been good. Even when he had left to fight Adderclan, left them behind...no, he realized quickly that Earthstar had done the right thing, helped to save them all, and had become the best leader Riverclan could ask for at the time.
At..the time, and Diamondheart then watched his leader exile his apprentice, paranoid and hurt from the death of the medicine cat, by Deadpaw’s sister...Jaguar was the evil one, not her brother, not Venompaw, surely. But Earthstar had grown suspicious and scarier than Diamondheart had ever seen and it reminded him of the blooming blood that changed white and silver to red and-
No. Earthstar was still good.
Mistfall kept the clan safe when Earthstar was taken, as a deputy should. But then she trusted him. And Diamondheart led the patrol, steeled himself and grew up just ever so much, trailed by Brookeheart, Icepath, Phantomspots, Troutpaw...and wandered into a world of unknown filth and discord.
It took nearly a moon, but they did find their leader, with...Northstar? It was certainly a strange event, but Diamondheart had been more focused on begging his leader to speak and breathe when twolegs had killed Earthstar with the most terrifying stick to ever grace the world. One pop.
Dead.
Earthstar wasn’t so scary after that. He was just guilty…
When they got back to camp? Guilty...For driving away Deadpaw, surely, and for looking like a cat they all wanted to forget for a moment there. But, camp returned to normal, and everything was normal.
Mistfall stepped down, and a decision usually made by the leader is taken into the paws of Starclan instead, and then Flarepaw’s given a sign and it’s no longer Diamondheart, Riverclan warrior and mentor of Thawpaw, it’s Diamondheart, too young deputy who has no idea what Mistfall did with things like this and…
But he had promised, and Starclan had decided and he owed this clan his life. He’d have never said no.
Earthstar lifts his head, and while he still looks guilty and tired, his eyes are no longer flickering or narrowed or piercing into Venompaw’s back and that’s good, because Venompaw’s his friend, and he hated seeing her feel so hated.
His leader asks.
“Yes, Diamondheart?”
Diamondheart feels a bit nervous. It’s only been a few days, and while the patrols have actually gone well, he knows there are cats in the clan that still see that rouge part of him, and other who need a wise and proven and older deputy and have a new warrior and mentor instead.
No. No self-pity. He’s not a kit anymore, and he’s ready for this no matter what.
It didn’t mean his voice wasn’t hesitant as he told his leader.
“I’ve sent the last of the patrols...but I also wanted to get your thoughts on maybe starting the final assessments for the older apprentices?...”
Earthstar must have caught the hesitance, because he tipped his head and mewed simply.
“That sounds like a good idea, I’ll speak to the other mentors...Diamondheart, are you alright?”
Diamondheart’s eyes trailed on the strange scar on Earthstar’s side, where the death stick tore a hole into him and killed him, before he slowly looked at his leader’s green eyes, and he felt his tail droop and his shoulders sag as he admitted.
“I doubted you. When you said those things and doubted Deadpaw and Venompaw, and before that, when you left Riverclan to help the other clans beat Adderclan, but I’ve realized that I can’t doubt you, not if I’m your deputy. I meant it, you know...when I said I’d give all of myself to serve as deputy for Riverclan. So...I’m sorry that I doubted you, because you’re okay now.” Earthstar’s silence made him swallow slowly, eyes drooping in embarrassment at how...young he must have sounded. He shifted, ready to leave it at that, do something a deputy should, build up the dens, fish or…
“You had every right to doubt me. Everyone did, and they still do...I regret how I treated my apprentice and his sister everyday. One day...if I can...I’ll open all of Riverclan up to Deadpaw to bring him back. And he can doubt me instead. I have faith in you, Diamondheart. I just hope you’ll keep having faith in me.”
Diamondheart thought of Ottermask and Frostlake, their family and their pain and then of seeing Deadpaw coming home one day...Venompaw’s beautiful smile and Shellpaw’s happiness and safety for once in his life with a leader who stands safe and tall and says his name for the world to hear like Rain used to.
Diamondheart knew he had pretty bright eyes, and knew they were glowing with determined loyalty as he assured.
“Of course, Earthstar. I’ve got plenty of faith left in me.”
|
|
|
Post by 🌙Moonpower🌙 on Sept 14, 2017 8:00:59 GMT -5
(Hmmm...who should I write about next?)
|
|
|
Post by Moonblazer on Sept 14, 2017 9:42:28 GMT -5
(Hmmmm. Maybe Hare and Dash? Or Rabbit? Would help me totally if ya did some Windclan stuff/characterization :3 )
|
|
|
Post by 🌙Moonpower🌙 on Sept 14, 2017 9:49:10 GMT -5
(Lol, I guess I have neglected my WindClan characters huh?
Hmmm, I'll have to think about it, there's a lot yet not much to work with, with my WindClan cats. Aww, I forgot about Berrywatcher)
|
|