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Post by embertuft on Feb 17, 2019 18:16:38 GMT -5
Chapter 1
Honeykitβs POV:
It was early sunrise in HailClanβs camp, and Honeykit was awake. She was ready to βseize the dayβ as Cloudfire, her father would always say. Although, this sunrise seemed particularly different. For the first fact, that her moss bed was an obvious distance from her sisterβs and mothers. Although this was normal to happen, she thought as she dragged the tufts of bracken and leaves nearer to the warm huddle.
There, she noticed her sisterβs eyes flickering as she began to arise. βFernkit! Wake up!β Honeykit jumped onto her hind legs and shook her tortoiseshell sister. βWhat do you want?β Fernkit replied, stretching out her front paws. βWell donβt you want to play-fight? Todayβs the perfect time as Gorsewhiskerβs asleep!β Her confusion clouded over as Fernkit got up, replaced with excitement.
βNot really. I donβt want to get in trouble again.β Fernkit looked at her with narrowed eyes. β-plus, who was the one who got us confined to the nursery for two moons?β Honeykit put her head down in slight shame, then rose it again. She wouldnβt be put down like this! Walking over to her sister, she narrowed her eyes back at Fernkit. βBut if someone hadnβt snitched, we wouldnβt have gotten in trouble!β
βKits! Kits! Calm down!β Their conversation was interrupted by Gorsewhisker rustling in her nest. The tan she cat gazed at both of them, sighing in helplessness. βHoneykit, Leave your sister alone and stop being so snappy.β
Her jaw dropping in slight shock, the golden and white kit turned away as Gorsewhisker called. βRemind Gingerstorm the brambles need replacing at the door.β βYeah. I keep on getting a draft blow through at night into my nest.β Fernkitβs shout also followed.
Like mousedung you do. You sleep so heavily youβll barely feel anything. Honeykit grunted but shook it out her thoughts.
The HailClan camp was a small rock-covered surface, nearby a river which trickled softly. The river was like a slide, the rocks tilted down as the river sloped. It was particularly hard to grip onto anything as the whole ground was rock, with bramble dens perched upon them. Apart from moss which sprung in places, near towards the RockSlope, which had a cluster of it down the side which Sandstar would grip onto as he climbed up to announce things. I donβt think I could handle being leader. She thought to herself, shaking out of her trance, and headed towards Cloudfire and Gingerstorm.
βHow you doing today Honeykit?β Gingerstorm asked her, Honeykit acknowledged her with a nod. βIβm well.β She smiled. βBrambles near the nursery door need replacing.β βOf course. The nursery was beginning to get in disrepair after quite a while.β The long legged she cat stood up, waving her tail to Cloudfire. βYou couldnβt possibly do that patrol for me tonight, me and Juniperheart will have our paws full?β βIβm not doing anything, so I can take Lightstripe and Pigeonpaw near the SnowyClan border. An apprentice almost trespassed, so I want to double-check.β βBye Gingerstorm!β Honeykit called as the she-cat walked off out the entrance. Left with her father, who simply dreamt off, she swiped at him in attempt to catch his attention. βOh Honeykit!β The longhaired tom glanced down.βWant to play mossball?β Honeykit eyes caught on a green ball. She grabbed it quickly. βCatch it!β She squealed as Cloudfire bounced to the side, clasping it. βNow you try.β Cloudfire pushed it towards her. It rolled out of distance. Angered that she misjudged her jumped, Honeykit stomped her paw on the ball. Lifting it, she saw the ball was now a splat of green beneath her paw. βI donβt think we can use this.β He peeled the moss-ball away from her paw pad and chuckled softly. βNo.β Her eyes followed it as it was tossed aside. βFernkit and Gorsewhisker asleep again?β Suprised, Honeykit blinked back up at him. βWell Fernkit was a bit angry at me.β
βYou didnβt try and sneak out again?β He questioned. The golden and white kit shook her head. βI promise I didnβt. I only wanted to play-fight but she didnβt.β βThereβs a reason for that.β He spoke to her, gazing at his paws. βFernkit wants to be a medicine cat, so no wonder her interest isnβt in fighting.β
Well why didnβt she just tell me?
Honeykit nodded to her father, and walked back to the nursery. She noticed Gorsewhisker standing up, a bunch of leaves in her jaws. βYou teaching Fernkit about herbs?β She peered in from the entrance. βOf course not!β Gorsewhisker rolled her eyes, dropping the leaves. βIβm moving back to the warriors den. Echosplash is looking after you now.β Honeykit was shoved aside as Echosplash entered the den, and the grey queen looked back at her apologetically. βNo point in being sorry for that one.β Gorsewhisker sniffed, walking briskly out the den.
Shuffling in the den with discomfort, Honeykit saw Fernkit. So she walked over to her. βWhy didnβt you tell me you wanted to be a medicine cat?β Fernkit eyes widened, and her gaze averted to elsewhere in the den. βI donβt know, maybe I wasnβt ready.β βOk.β Honeykit hesitantly accepted the answer and padded over to Echosplash. βAre you expecting kits?β Honeykit asked the she-cat, who nodded. βTheyβre Darkclawβs. Maplepaw is now Lightstripeβs apprentice, if you were wondering.β Satisfied with an answer, Honeykit hesitantly lay down infront of Echosplash, the unfamiliarity making her shiver. βHave a nice nap.β Echosplash muttered to her, also putting her head down. Honeykit put her head up. βThanks.β She muttered back. However, now she could not see Fernkit in the nursery. But she could hear Gorsewhiskerβs shouts of βMy daughterβs going to be a medicine cat!β Sighing, Honeykit curled up closer towards Echosplash, even though the unfamiliarity was prickling down her spine, she had to get used to it. Stop being a wimp Honeykit. Youβve just got to get used to it. Even if you donβt like it.
Chapter 2
Rushcloudβs POV: There was the trickling of the river nearby as a StormClan patrol ushered down a familiar route, one they had taken for moons. The patrol consisted of deputy Rushcloud, warriors Hazelclaw and Oaksplash and apprentice Lakepaw, her littermates still back at camp. βYou mark the borders here, Lakepaw.β Rushcloud directed his apprentice to a ridge next to the river. βIβll check over here.β Hazelclaw announced, narrowing her eyes. βEverything okay?β Rushcloud padded over to Oaksplash, who seemed observant. βCan you smell that?β The red and white tom asked, his whiskers twitching. Rushcloud stretched out above the grasses a little, and a strong scent picked up across the grass ridge. βDo you know what scent that is?β He asked to Oaksplash, who shook his head. βLook!β Lakepawβs shout made all three cats turn their head. The silver tabby apprentice had something clasped in her jaws. βSomeoneβs been stealing prey!β Hazelclaw rushed over and observed it as Lakepaw dropped it. βItβs the scent from over there!β Oaksplash said in recognition, padding back over to the grass ridge. βBut who is it?β βI donβt know.β Rushcloud said honestly. Am I expected to answer every question? He couldnβt help but think as the tom looked at him obliviously. βIs it HailClan? Are we going to attack them? Can I join the battle? I canβt wait!β Lakepaw jumped in happiness, sticking her tail up hopefully. βItβs been a while since I got my jaws onto some HailClan.β Hazelclaw said in a lower growl, licking her muzzle. βNo!β Rushcloud stopped the two she cats in their track. He got the three to gather round, Lakepaw shoving the half-eaten prey to him in a flurry. Slightly disgusted, he nudged the shrew away with a paw, ignoring Lakepawβs stare. βDoes that count as my hunting assessment?β She asked, eyes still fixed on the shrew a few foxlengths away. βHereβs what weβre going to do.β Rushcloud bent down into the group. βAbsolutely nothing.β
βBut Flowerstar has my kits to care for! What if they attack the Clan? We could get killed!β Oaksplash began pacing and shrieking loudly. βI was about to say, we couldnβt just do nothing.β Hazelclaw said, while examining her claws with a sort of demonic look in her eye. βI will tell Flowerstar of this situation. And you three- Lakepaw- leave that mouse-brained shrew alone!β He was interrupted mid sentence, then preceded to continue. βAn extra patrol will be put across this border from tomorrow to prevent this from happening.β All cats seemed, surprisingly accepting, but still a little uneasy. βNow letβs go back to camp and tell Flowerstar.β
The tom shuffled uncomfortably in his sleep, as darkness overcrowded him. He had a bad feeling that this dream was not normal. βGreynight, awaken.β He was shook awake, and the grey tom awoke to see a grey, silver and black mottled tom standing above him. βHaretooth?β He asked, stepping away in shock. Stars littered everywhere, including on Haretooth, and everything was a faded blue. βIβm here to tell you something important.β Greynight could feel a slight uncertainty in Haretoothβs voice. βIs it important?β Greynight asked as he got to his paws, and tilting his head to the side. βJealously travels throughout the Clans. Watch out, as a hidden danger is lurking, not far.β
βA prophecy?β He asked as he consumed the words that Haretooth had just said. But before he could consider anymore, he had already fallen into a heavy sleep.
The patrol had returned from the grass ridge and it was now a while later. There were a group of cats sat in the middle of the clearing, their eyes fixed on a tortoiseshell warrior who was breathing heavily. βSorrelpelt, calm down please.β Flowerstarβs soothing voice was barely anything to calm her. βI canβt.β The she cat panted, looking up. The group was looking at her, confused. βDeep breaths.β Dapplepaw whispered, nuzzling into Sorrelpeltβs neck. βAny idea why sheβs so frightened?β Carppaw whispered up to Greynight, who was also looking particularly ruffled. βWell I mean, cats are stealing our prey. No wonder sheβs shook.β βCats?β Carppaw retorted back. βBut we know itβs HailClan.β βYou would recognise the smell then, wouldnβt you?β Greynight shuffled his paws, keen to get out the conversation. βPlease Sorrelpelt. Tell us whatβs troubling you.β Rushcloud looked at the she cat. She turned her head away from his stare. βFine. Have it your way.β Rushcloud stood up and briskly walked across the clearing.
Stars splattered the sky as Sorrelpelt stalked the shadows. She was scared. A shadow was approaching through the grasses. It was nearby to where the patrol had been earlier that day, she could sense. The figure came towards her sleekly, and she braced herself, taking a step back. Two grey pointed ears were illuminated in the moonlight as the cat stood from their crouch. βSo have you kept your deal?β The cat, a tom asked her coldly. βI havenβt told anyone, Night.β Sorrelpelt replied, her voice hushed in fear. βGood. Now where is my supply of prey?β Sighing, Sorrelpelt reached into the grasses, pulling out two blackbirds and a mouse. βHere you go.β She said, her voice muffled by the feathers and fur. βGood Sorrelpelt.β βYou havenβt told anyone have you?β She stares at him firmly, amber eyes staring into his. βOf course not Sorrelpelt.β Night shook his head. βBut if no instalment of prey next time. Well it would be a shame for Sorrelpeltβs little forbidden love to slip. Wouldnβt it?β βYes.β Sorrelpelt nodded, gulping still. βSheβs alright isnβt she?β The tortoiseshell asked afterwards. βOf course sheβs fine. I checked over yesterday. They didnβt see me obviously.β Night rolled his eyes. βBye.β Sorrelpelt shuddered, watching as the grey figure walk away. She gazed upwards as moonlight illuminated the spot where she was sitting. βWherever you are, I hope youβre safe. At least I know one of you is fine.β Chapter 3
Waterwishβs POV
It was a new day in SnowyClan, and cats had begun to arise. Waterwish was particularly early, the golden tabby watching as Cloudpaw and Primrosepaw sharpened their claws on the rock face, which sheltered one side of their camp. βGood day, isnβt it?β She turned her head to see Whirlflight stepping across the clearing. βYes. I suppose it is. Has Cindertail organised the patrols yet?β The tom looked mystified for a second, then turned back. βI donβt think Cindertail was in the den, when I last looked.β He sat down, grooming a tuft of ginger fur on his back. βBut Iβm pretty sure the first patrol was us two, Stoneleap, Crackpelt and Thrushfoot.β She questioned the fact of Thrushfoot going on a patrol when her kits were in the nursery, but maybe she didnβt want to be confined there for six moons. βDid you here about the situation with StormClan and HailClan?β A new voice entered the conversation, the black and white warrior Mossdapple. βYes, some cats found stolen prey at the Grass Tufts.β Whirlflight dipped his head back. βI better be heading, getting Stoneleap awake will be a challenge.β He flicked his tail and the ginger tom disappeared into a den. βItβs horrid, isnβt it?β Waterwish murmured to Mossdapple who nodded silently. βI hope FrostClan wonβt cause trouble for us.β The dainty cat whispered, and Waterwish couldnβt help but agree.
The patrol of five were now travelling down the border line of FrostClan, and their own Clan, SnowyClan. It had a small ditch parting the two, which was filled with dry, crinkled leaves from the last leaf-fall. The sides were not particularly steep, so no cat could seriously injure themself, it was thought. βI think weβre done here now.β Stoneleap put his head up as he strolled past the ditch. βEverything seems fine.β Thrushfoot peeked out from behind a tree and leapt up towards Whirlflight, Waterwish and Crackpelt. βPlus Splashkit and Patchkit will be awake soon.β βLetβs go.β Crackpelt wearily said, his green eyes bleary and tired. βAre you okay?β Waterwish asked, as the tom collapsed onto his haunches. βNot really.β The brown tabby replied, his voice husky. βMaybe I should be joining Beechwind soon.β βMaybe give him some herbs?β Thrushfoot questioned, stepping infront of the old warrior. Waterwish agreed, he certainly needed some aid, and their camp was too far to go and try and get Shadefang or Greenpaw. βWeβll need chamomile and coltsfoot.β Whirlflight began lookin around. The tom began digging into some shrubs, and emerged with some long-stemmed daisy looking like flowers with feathery leaves. βWe just need the coltsfoot.β Whirlflight said, dropping the strands infront of Crackepelt, who gazed at them. βEat them.β Whirlflight gently pushed them in encouragement. Crackepelt did as Whirlflight told. βBe careful of the FrostClan.β Stoneleap whispered, while dropping into a hunting crouch. What is Stoneleap doing? The golden tabby pondered, rubbing a paw on Crackpeltβs back reassuringly. βI think thereβs an attack being launched.β Thrushfoot replied, peering over the reeds. The scent of FrostClan thickened the air as the cats tensed themselves. βAgreed.β Whirlflight stepped forward, his claws unsheathed. βSo where are they?β Waterwish flicked an ear towards Thrushfoot and Stoneleap. Both cats tensed their muscles, looking ready to fight. βAttack!β A call echoed in the distance. Thrushfoot and Stoneleap nodded to one another, moving closer infront of the patrol, ready to attack if needed. It was no doubt that the two were some of SnowyClanβs best fighters. Just as she took a deep breath in, Waterwish was knocked off her paws, being held down by a white she cat. Her claws sunk into Waterwishβs fur as she rolled and knocked the she cat off. βAttack back!β Stoneleap yelled, jumping full force onto a brown tabby tom. The she-cat growled, pouncing yet again at Waterwish, and her claws caught her shoulder, causing a wound to form and bleed. βWhat are you even doing here?β Waterwish said through clenched teeth at the white she-cat. βYou stole our prey!β The she cat squealed a little as Waterwish drew her claws across her ears, tearing one. βAnd you know not to bother fighting with us!β The HailClan cat flipped Waterwish over, holding her in a tight hold. Without even the slightest of hesitation, the white she-cat lunged straight for her neck. An intense pain spread through her neck, and Waterwish yowled in pain. Blood seeped down her chest from the wound. Luckily, Thrushfoot pulled the white she cat off, jumping on top of her and swiping at her haunches as she bit at her tail in response. βOh Snowstorm, you can do much better than that!β The warrior, now identified as Snowstorm, huffed, and recklessly drew her claws down Thrushfootβs face. βDonβt even try!β Whirlflight shoved in, biting Snowstormβs shoulder and scratching at her legs, making Snowstorm fall over in defeat. βRun off while you still can!β Stoneleap yelled, as the cats ran off. He sported a newly scratched ear and a set of scratches across his flank. Whirlflight seemed marginally unhurt, only a bad gash on his hind leg. Thrushfoot, stood pressing a paw to her face. There was a full set of claw marks right across her eyes. Thankfully, she didnβt seemed like sheβd gone blind. Waterwish could say otherwise for herself. A big wound was on her neck, causing terrible pain, and the scratches on her pelthad begin to sting. βYou need to get back to camp Waterwish!β Thrushfoot said hurriedly as she noticed the blood. βCrackpeltβs more important than me right now!β She snapped weakly. Blood was still welling, and it had begun to trickle around her paws. She began to feel slightly lightheaded, and everything had begun spinning. Collapsing to the ground in pain, Waterwish felt everything turn black.
Chapter 4
(Redkit) Cats circled around something in the middle of the clearing. Carppaw had found them during a hunting assessment, and brought them back to the Clan. Redkit was quite curious to see what was so important at that particular moment. Taking pattering footsteps out the nursery, the red tabby saw his father anxiously blink down. βWhatβs going on?β He looked up at Dapplepaw, who shook her head. βGo back to the nursery.β She replied to him. Slightly overwhelmed, he continued forward, cats parting as he did so. βSo are they healthy Greynight?β Flowerstar asked, and Redkit noticed she was looking down at two small scraps of fur. βYes. Seemingly so- I mean they donβt have anything wrong with them.β Greynight stammered, his whiskers twitching with doubt. Redkit was quite curious at the new arrivals. They didnβt smell of StormClan, quite a harsh smell of weathered streets in TwolegPlace. βI guess I should foster them.β Flowerstar shrugged, and her eyes caught Redkit. βThese are your new littermates.β Her brown tail trailed down his back reassuringly, but he couldnβt help but feel something towards them. Jealousy? He questioned in his mind. But these kits were innocent. One tom, and one she kit. The tom was white-pelted with a ginger tabby tail and ears. The other, a tiny silver tabby she kit with tufted ears. He also noticed the she kits scarred and twisted hind leg. βSad to think thatβs the reason she was abandoned. Her littermate, Iβm not too sure.β Greynight stepped in, taking the white tom by the scruff. βWhat should they be called?β Flowerstar pondered, and now Sweetkit and Hawkkit had dashed over. βNew kits? Cool!β Sweetkit yelled, as she pounced onto Hawkkitβs back. βThat one should be Daisykit.β Redkit pointed to the she kit. βGood idea.β Flowerstar murmured, glancing at the kit in Greynightβs jaws. βBlazekit. His tail looks like itβs a blazing fire!β βOh yeah.β Hawkkit replied quietly, padding up next to his brother. βWelcome to the Clan, Daisykit and Blazekit.β
(Patchkit) A black and white tom padded through the forest, his fur ruffled by the wind. He wasnβt sure what he was doing. Patchkit has snuck out after the patrol had returned, spooked by the amount of wounds the patrol had. Even so, I wouldnβt become a medicine cat! He noted himself standing in the area where the border skirmish occurred. All of a sudden, a small creamy white head popped up from the undergrowth. βWhat are you doing on SnowyClan?β He proclaimed, running over to the tom-kit. βI just want to know what happened.β He stammered, taking a step back. βSame.β Patchkit puffed, aitting back on his haunches. βBoth my parents were on that patrol yβknow?β He tells the stranger. βReally?β Whitekitβs ears prick up. βMy dad, Grasspounce was in that FrostClan patrol.β βPatchkit.β The black and white tom replied, still wary of the FrostClan kit. βIβm Whitekit.β Whitekit responded, stepping forward. βI wish the Clan wouldnβt fight.β Patchkit went off into thought. It was irritating, he admitted, every single time his parents went into battle, his fear was that one of them wouldnβt return. Even worse, both. βSame here, to be honest. I get sick of FrostClan sometimes. Theyβre all so her up for battle. They donβt realise that no one has anything against them.β Slightly taken aback, Patchkit walked forward. He hadnβt expected such words from a, two moon old kit? βHow old are you? Iβm four moons.β Patchkit boasted a little. βTwo moons.β Whitekit responded maturely, then turned his head back into the territory. βI better get going, but I guess Iβll see you later?β βYeah.β Patchkit waved his tail as he watched Whitekit disappear.
Quick as a flash, he began running back in the direction of the camp. It would be no surprise if Thrushfoot had caused a ruckus about loosing him. Sheβd already lost a litter, she wouldnβt want to loose him, either. He began to feel a little more guilty at sneaking out, but glad he had a sort of friendship with Whitekit. Being the only tom in a den of she-cats got quite annoying.
He skidded into the camp, where his father, Whirlflight, was darting around in panic. βPatchkit!β Whirlflight called when he saw his son. The two embraced for a heartbeat before Whirlflight gave him stern eyes. βThrushfootβs been worried sick. Where have you been?β βNowhere.β Patchkitβs eyes darted off, until there was a yell from the nursery. βGingerskyβs kitting!β A yelp off Flashflower in the nursery saw both medicine cats Shadefang and Greenpaw sprint across the clearing. Patchkit trotted after them, as he presumed his mother would be there. βFirst kit Gingersky.β Shadefang told the ginger queen, who nodded and gasped loudly. βItβs a tom!β Greenpaw announced, placing the kit by his mother. Patchkit could only see a flash of ginger before he was ushered back by Sandleap. βGive her some privacy.β Sandleap whispered down to him, and he noticed Splashkit curled up beside her. How Splashkit managed to sleep at this time was beyond him. They waited a while, until Shadefangβs call fill the nursery. βGo tell Stoneleap heβs a father to two toms and two she kits.β
Soon enough, the white tom came into the nursery, raw scars still slashed upon his pelt from the border skirmish. βTheyβre beautiful.β He breathed, gazing down. One tom was a vibrant ginger tabby, just like his mother. The next, another tom, was a pale grey. Their sisters, included a calico she kit with prominent black patches and a white she kit with grey patches. βRosekit and Dunekit for them two.β Stoneleap pointed to the calico and the grey tom. βLarchkit and Willowkit for the other two.β Gingersky sighed, looking down at the four kits. Patchkit did a little jump of happiness. New denmates!
His joy was soon replaced with guilt and dread as Thrushfoot walked into the den, looking furious. Not to mention the scratches across her face made her look even more horrifying. βWhere have you been, Patchkit?! You know I canβt go through that pain again!β She yelled, looking at her son. βI canβt lose another kit. Not like the way I did before!β
Chapter 5
Honeykit/paw POV
Two cats sat, eagerly awaiting what would be one of the greatest day of their lives. Not for Honeykit, it wasnβt. Gorsewhisker seemed more enclined to care for Fernkit that day. Honeykit would admit, sheβd felt out of place with Gorsewhisker, and she had no idea why. But her best bet was just to get through the day. It had come as a surprise to that they were become apprentices today, sprung upon them both mysteriously. Her thoughts were interrupted by Pigeonpaw nudging her shoulder. βBet you didnβt think you were becoming an apprentice today, did you?β βNo I didnβt.β Honeykit admitted, flicking an ear. βI guess I have to go now.β Honeykit noticed Sandstar climbing to the top of the RockSlope, signalling the ceremony was starting. βFernkit, Honeykit! Gather in the clearing!β Sandstar yowled, alarming her slightly. βGood Luck.β Pigeonpaw whispered as Honeykit stood up. βThanks.β Honeykit smiles at her, and walked up to where Fernkit was already standing. The tortoiseshell has been cleaned by Gorsewhisker that morning, clear to see as Fernkitβs pelt shone. Honeykitβs, not as much. Dirt still scuffed her pelt in slight places, but she didnβt necessarily care. βGood luck becoming a medicine cat.β Honeykit whispered to Fernkit, who smiled back gently. βThanks. You too- becoming a warrior I mean.β Honeykit chuckled a bit at that. The big brown warrior Darkclaw lead the two kits by his tail, beckoning them. He seemed slightly off-put she noticed. βFernkit, do you wan to train as a medicine cat?β Sandstar looked down at the tortoiseshell, who was shivering. Samdstar always looked intimidating.
βY-yes.β Fernkit stretched up tall, watching as Silverpool trots across the clearing. βThen by the power of StarClan, you shall be known as Fernpaw. This apprentice shall train in the ways of a medicine cat. She shall follow the code, and stay loyal to her Clan.β Sandstar looked down at Fernpaw, who dipped her head. βSilverpool, you shall be mentor to Fernpaw. Teach her everything you know.β The two bumped noses, and Gorsewhisker rushed up, cheering loudly as Honeykit stood overwhelmed. How dare she interrupt my ceremony! The golden and white cat stifled a growl as she looked towards Gorsewhisker, giving her a death stare. βI see you only want to spend time with your perfect daughter. Go on! Run off, because itβs clear that Iβm not wanted.β Everyone looked shocked at her, Gorsewhiskerβs look almost looking like.. sadness. Her voice was inaudible of what she said next, but Honeykit caught some of it. β-she doesnβt belong.β Slightly offput, Honeykit turned back to Sandstar. βHoneykit, do you want to train as a warrior?β βYes.β She replied, her voice clear. She noticed Darkclaw to her left was looking particularly shaky. The brown tom looked deathly nervous. Quietly, he took a step forward, or more of a shuffle. βThen by the power of StarClan, you will be known as Honeypaw. This apprentice shall train in the ways of a warrior. She shall follow the code, and stay loyal to her Clan.β Honeypaw dipped her head, but she was too focused on Gorsewhisker fussing over Fernpaw, not having the respect to stay quiet for her other daughters ceremony. βDarkclaw will be your mentor.β The brown tom gave a jump in shock, shakily approaching her. They touched noses, and Darkclaw hesitated. βY-youβre my first apprentice.β He whispered to her, and she nodded in understanding. Honeypaw had never talked to Darkclaw that much, so having him as a mentor would be interesting. Normally, Darkclaw was a cat that would keep to himself, a reason why she would not see him as much. βFernpaw! Honeypaw! Fernpaw! Honeypaw!β
Honeypaw felt a sense of pride as the Clan cheered their names, and Cloudfire walked over, smiling reassuringly. βGood luck.β He smiled, waved his tail, and walked back off to Fernpaw and Gorsewhisker. Harsh. Youβd think I wasnβt even related to them. The three of them were happily sat in the clearing, discussing whatever they were. Honeypaw was sat only Fox-lengths away. A wave of emotion overtook her for a second before Darkclaw lay his tail comfortingly on her back. βI know itβs not the same, but both my parents and sister died when I was an apprentice. I was lonely too.β He muttered. She felt a mound of sympathy for the tom, but nodded a little. βSo weβre going on a tour of the territory. Which I guess you know quite well already.β He smirked and Honeypaw looked at him, in fake hurt. βWell Iβm sorry! But thereβs no need to joke about it.β She said, while cracking into a smile. βLetβs go then!β
The apprentice and mentor stormed through the forest, the pounding of their paws against rushes of grass joining rhythmically. Darkfoot trailed slightly behind, wincing as a thorn speared his paw. βMaybe we should stop here.β He announced to Honeypaw, who obeyed and observed the scene beyond her. βSo this is the Shallow Pool?β She asked, gazing out onto the tranquil stretch of water that glittered with the sunβs shine. βYes it is.β He replied, flicking his tail in the direction of the water. βHave a paddle if you wish. Itβll be good practice for your swimming training, and itβs beginning to get quite mild.β The apprentice dipped her head, wading into the water, careful where to put her paws in case of stubbing her toes. She didnβt want to end like Darkclaw, who was silently licking his paw. The thorn now strewn aside on the grass to make sure no other cat would step on it. The water was slightly chilled, but became warmer as she waddled to the parts that were engulfed in sun. βMaybe you should come in, Darkclaw. It might help your paw.β βO-of course.β His voice went quiet and he trotted to the waters edge, dipping his paw in. Even though he could say it comforted his paw, he was still terrified of the water that lay before him. βCan we continue?β Honeypaw asked, now bored of sloshing waves about.
Her thoughts had been set aside for the many minutes she had been in the pool, but as soon as she came out, thoughts cake running back to her head. Fernpaw is the special one. Gorsewhiskerβs probably fussing over her. Silverpool might get a snapping off for telling Fernpaw what to do. Even if Cloudfire gave me a good luck, he doesnβt care. I feel like I donβt even belong.
She was rudely interrupted by two squeaks in the bushes beside the water. Uncovering the undergrowth, she was met up with the blinking eyes of two tom-kits. βWhat are you doing in HailClan territory?β She asked the older one, a black and white tom. βWe just wanted to come to the shallow pool.β He said, taking a step back. She turned to the other kit, a creamy white with green eyes. βWhat Patchkit said.β
βArenβt you two from different Clan?β She turned her head to both kits. Both had a very different scent. Whitekit has the scent of FrostClan, smelling like damp leaves and moist weather. Patchkit scent was a quite sweet scent of blossom flowers and heather- mixed with the forest which stretched from HailClanβs territory partly into SnowyClans. βWeβre friends.β Patchkit announced smugly. βWho are you?β βHoneypaw.β She replied, before noticing Darkfootβs suspicions look. βPlease you two, go back to your Clans. I donβt want you both to get injured.β Patchkit looked crestfallen then touched his muzzle to Whitekitβs ear. βSee ya later.β βSee ya.β Whitekitβs voice was slightly hushed, and Honeypaw turned away, still looking behind her as her and Darkfoot walked off, just to double check the kits were gone.
Chapter 6
Sorrelpeltβs POV
Sorrelpelt sat in the clearing of StormClan, eating ravenously at a mouse she had caught earlier on. Prey was scarce around this season, and she couldnβt help but feel partially guilty. But if it was to keep her Clan and secret safe, she would have to. βTonightβs the gathering, Sorrelpelt.β Rushcloud approached her with kind eyes, his tail tip flickering. βOf course.β She dipped her head, returning to her meal. Her bluntness seemed to unsettle him. She noticed he looked downcast as he walked off, but she ignored it. A patrol of Hazelclaw and Carppaw returned then, Carppaw greeting Lakepaw and Hazelclaw looking pitiful. βWe didnβt get any prey.β She sighed, sitting next to Sorrelpelt. The brown tabby was beginning to get skinnier she noticed, her ribs clearly noticeable beneath her brown pelt. βEat, Hazelclaw.β Sorrelpelt got up and pushed the half-eaten mouse towards her. Sorrelpelt glanced across the valley, taking in the mystical setting. StormClan was perched on a high valley, set further away than the other Clans. The border they shared with FrostClan draped down the side of their territory, and StormClan onlooked to HailClanβs rocky territory opposite. SnowyClanβs territory was opposite FrostClan, a windy conifer forest of SnowyClan also placed next to HailClanβs. The sunset was always a very pretty view, dappled colours of orange, yellow, pale pink and vibrant blue signalling the setting day. βWe leave soon.β Rushcloud called, perched on the Crooked Branch, a strong oak branch that stabbed through the ground and curled over. βDapplepaw, Sorrelpelt, Oaksplash, myself and Carppaw will be attending.β Sorrelpelt glanced as the meagre group of cats stepped forward. That meant that Flowerstar would be left to care for five kits by herself, and Hazelclaw left to recover. βLetβs go!β Carppaw shouted delightedly, bounding out the camp, before a yowl of pain was heard. βCarppaw!β Dapplepaw screeched, running though the entrance, Sorrelpelt coming with her to investigate. βMy paw!β Carppaw whimpered, the grey tom glancing at the silver-thorn grasped to his hind leg. It seemed he had jumped right into it, Sorrelpelt realised. Three scratches punctured his fur, and she attempted to pull it off, a hiss of pain from herself as the silverthorn pricked her paw-pad. βSilver-thorn. What a horrid thing.β Greynight shook his head, approaching the apprentice, grasped at the end of it, managing to loosen the silver-thorn. βCome on!β Dapplepaw dragged Carppaw by the scruff, lifting him out the tangle. His leg seemed badly wounded, but still he continued to walk forward. βIβm going to have to ask Rosepool for herbs. We donβt have any left.β Greynight murmured, seemingly uncomfortable. βI can still come, right?β Carppaw asked, trying to hide a wince of pain. βI donβt think that would be good...β Sorrelpelt distanced off, gazing at his leg. There was two deep wounds, and another shallow scrape on the back of his hind leg. βYou can try.β Greynight said, much to the surprise of her. βLets get going!β Carppaw exclaimed again, charging. This time, much slower.
The small group of five finally arrived at the gathering place, which was a widespread ditch with a flat, smooth rock ventures in the middle. StormClan territory shadowed overhead, the gathering place being at the bottom of it. βI think SnowyClan are coming now.β Oaksplash said to Sorrelpelt. The smell of blossom flowers and conifer tree leaves filled the clearing. Yes. That was them.
A group of ten cats, Sorrelpelt could name most. Thrushfoot, two apprentices, Mossdapple, The leader and deputy, Flintstar and Cindertail. And four other cats who had now spread off to different parts of the ditch. βHi Sorrelpelt!β She turned to see the awkward voice of Darkclaw call her over. Following his voice, she came over to him, where he was sitting with two apprentices who were squabbling. βBut that not fair! You know I have short legs!β A golden tabby tom protested to the other apprentice. βMaplepaw, stop quarrelling!β The tom rolled his eyes, sticking his tongue out at the apprentice. βActually it was me, Lightstripe.β The other apprentice said guiltily, not long before a tan and white she cat had raced over. Sorrelpelt was confused at the commotion, looking at Darkclaw for guidance. He just shook his head. No help there. She sighed loudly. Although that apprentice looks familiar.. She took another glance at the golden and white she cat, who took a step back from the tan and white she cat. βS-sorry!β They stuttered and turned to face Sorrelpelt. βIβm Honeypaw.β βApologise to Maplepaw this instant! You know heβs better than you!β She said bluntly, Honeypaw flinching. βExcuse me.β Sorrelpelt said clearly, stepping in between the cats. βI suggest you leave her alone.β The tan and white she cat hissed, hitting Sorrelpelt on the side of the face. βAnd what are you going to do mouse-brain? She s my daughter. Not yours!β βWell by the way youβre treating her, it wouldnβt seem like you act it.β Sorrelpelt turned to Honeypaw, who had sat up a little straighter, watching what was going on. βSilence!β Flintstar snapped, and the argument was demolished. Huffed, Sorrelpelt walked away to greet with some SnowyClan cats when she felt a tug on her tail. βThanks.β Honeypaw meowed. βIβm used to it I guess, but no ones stood up to me.β Sorrelpelt took sympathy in the golden and white apprentice, bending down to her height. βHave hope and have courage. Even if it has to spring from the darkest of shadows.β Honeypaw looked slightly overwhelmed at her words, while Sorrelpelt shrugged. βMy mother told me them words when I was a kit. They were her last words. And my grandmothers last words too.β Honeypaw still looked slightly shook, and bounced off hesitantly back to Maplepaw. They were already half-way through the announcements, Sorrelpelt realised. She hadnβt been listening to much of what they were saying, but she couldnβt care. Her mind transferred to Hazelclaw and if the she-Cat had recovered yet. Then she remembered. Night. Her heart dropped as a flurry of panic went through her mind. I havenβt given him the prey installments! And this was my last chance too! The quiet murmurs in the gathering was suddenly stopped by a breeze running through the area. A strong scent brushed with it, and a tall shadow looked through the trees. The same grey ears which terrified her. βNight.β She gasped. It seemed every cat had moved away from the middle of the area to the edges, almost like they were hiding. Thrushfoot still remained slightly there, her eyes wide with surprise and fear. βSorrelpelt. It has been a long time hasnβt it?β The she cat took a gulp of air as cats turned their head to her. The tomβs brisk voice rang in the clearing, and now his full body could be seen. βY-yes Night?β She stuttered. Now the tom had walked closer and was barely a whisker away. βHow dare you disobey me!β He yowled, pinning her down by the throat instantly. βNow Iβm sure none of you want to get killed. So I suggest you stay right where you are!β Night said harshly, snapping his head to where Rushcloud was about to dash forward. βRushcloud- stay back.β She begged, looking at him with pleading eyes. The tom looked sullen, but dropped his tail and obeyed. βCome on!β Night dragged her up, the tortoiseshell following, then she felt her vision turn cloudy and black.
A harsh musky scent awoke Sorrelpelt as she came back to consciousness. It was a dark den, the only light leaking from slight holes in between the tan rocks. Now more alert, she stretched out, her limbs aching from lying on the hard floor. She knew the scent, it was quite familiar. βHello?β She whispered softly, hoping to get a response. A flash of movement flickered at where she thought the entrance was. Someoneβs right there! Instantly alarmed, she kneaded her claws on the ground and crouched down in defence. After a many tense heartbeats later, the figure came into the den. A tall, slim cream cat with grey markings. βMercury?β She asked in shock as the cats features flashed in the light. βSorrelpelt? What are you doing here?β His face softened and he came to greet her with a pleasant purr. βHowβs the Clan been?β She hesitantly slightly, but answered. βA bit of border trouble, but nothing else.β βI guess Night brought you back here.β He said warmly, his breath gently blowing onto her muzzle. βYes.β She hung her head in response. βI donβt know what heβs going to do. I missed the prey instalment.β βWhat do you mean?β He asked back, obviously growing wary. βThe prey? I have to give Night prey every quarter-moon. Itβs to stop him from hurting my Clan. I canβt have them be killed because of my stupid mistake.β She began sobbing, and Mercury wrapped his tail around her, coming closer. βWe were never informed of this.β He answered honestly. βJust thought that Night was a very good hunter in these parts.β Sorrelpelt shook her head. βNo. Iβve been giving my Clanβs prey away. Poor Hazelclaw almost starved.β βThis canβt continue.β Mercury sighed. βYou know I would leave, but, when you get in this rogue group, itβs hard to get out.β Sorrelpelt nodded her head, lying back down. βMaybe you should go back now, Mercury. I donβt want you to get killed.β
βNight might already.β He chuckled slightly. βWeβre not supposed to be friends with Clan cats.β He put his nose to her ear before silently hopping out the den, and heavy footsteps following after. Swallowing a rush of fear, she watched as Night approached her, looking even scarier as scars tangled across his face and pelt. βSo. Do you have any explanation?β He bent down, leaning to her height. βSorry Night, Iβll try better next time.β She cowered, pitting her head on her paws. βNext time isnβt good enough!β He snapped, swiping claws at her leg. βNow of course you donβt want your Clan to be endangered, or killed.β He shook his head, smirking as she tried to stand up, blood trickling down her front leg. βGo outside.β He ordered. Quietly, Sorrelpelt obeyed, scared of what would happen. The light blinded her as she stepped outside. The rogues territory was barren and bare, without any sort of shrubbery. Any sort of living plants, were pale brown and twiggy, not offering much protection to the elements. The area had faint remains of twoleg scent, and wire fences still remained, sharp and dangerous. Sorrelpelt just had to wonder for a moment what these cats would shelter in, when she noticed the ragged cardboard boxes and spilled twoleg bags, containing something that smelt halfway decent. βPatter, go and get the rest of the cats out.β Night said behind her firmly to a black she cat with brown eyes. βYou, Sorrelpelt, will be staying under close guard until we know what to do with you.β Night stepped closer to her, his amber eyes spooking her.
One of those possibilities: murder. She shuddered, and shook out her pelt. βYou donβt control me!β She snapped, confused by her burst of confidence. Even Night seemed alarmed.
βNow listen here you!β Night bowled her to the ground, knocking her on her side. βYou did not fulfill your offer too us. And I know how much your precious Clan means to you.β
βYou think you control everything Night! Well let me tell you, you donβt!β
βMaybe you should think before you speak, kitty!β Night snarled, clawing at her ear, forming a small wound in it. βYouβre gonna have to try better than that!β The she cat yelled back, bringing her paw down onto his muzzle.
βI warned you, Sorrelpelt.β She felt herself being shoved again to the corner of the place. There was a slightly darker patch on the floor. Suddenly her head filled with the memories. βYou donβt want to end up like him, do you?β Night sneered, pinning her down. Infact, Sorrelpelt could still smell the scent of where the cat had been before. βYou wouldnβt murder me!β Sorrelpelt splayed her paws out, barely having an impact. βWhat a love story!β Night gasped for a second, still keeping a strong pawhold on her chest. βBoth lovers killed in the exact same spot!β Sorrelpelt felt Nightβs claws unsheath. She aimlessly scrabbled at his legs, causing barely anything but tiny scratches. βHaretooth didnβt think that I would murder him, did he? Well he was clearly wrong.β βDonβt you dare even speak of him.β Sorrelpelt growled, finally scrambling from Nightβs grasp. She ran. Across the sandy territory to lose Night. βThe whole time he knew you were bad news. If only Iβd have listened.β
Chapter 7
It was a new morning in StormClan, and the cats were still spooked by the events of the gathering two days ago. Rushcloud had remained mournful and regretful that he could not help Sorrelpelt. Although, there was something joyous to bring to that day. βLook! Blazekitβs moving!β Sweetkit squeaked as she was nestled amongst Flowerstarβs belly. Blazekit was spread along Flowerstarβs shoulder, snoring gently. Daisykit was at the other end, tucked near her hind leg. βSo I see.β Flowerstar purred, putting her head down to face the white tom. βSo do you think youβll open your eyes yet?β As almost as if on command, Blazekit began shuffling round more, his eyelids flickering. βAre you my mother?β He asked as he opened his eyes wider, glancing at Flowerstar above him. βYour foster mother.β Flowerstar bent down, pressing her muzzle to his tiny nose. βBut youβre still our family.β βI know that.β Blazekit squeaked loudly, standing up and moving to Redkit. βSo youβre my foster brother?β Redkit nodded, slightly hesitant at the white kit infront of him. He was not in the mood to deal with energetic kits, his happiness gone after heβd been shoved in the dirt by Sweetkit. βBlazekit, leave me alone!β He snapped, shuffling away from all the other kits in the nursery. βAre you okay?β A sweet voice rang in his ears, and he turned to find Blazekitβs littermate, Daisykit standing a mouse-length away. βYes Iβm fine.β He glared again at the silver tabby. Her blue eyes looked catious, but she remained at stance. βDaisykit, come here! Your fur is all messy.β Flowerstar tutted, walking up towards the two kits. She began washing a rumpled bit of fur on Daisykitβs neck, gazing at Redkit. βWhy donβt you go outside with Hawkkit? Iβm sure Oaksppash would be pleased to see you.β Whenβs the last time she groomed my pelt??. Since them two came. Redkit sighed, going to greet Hawkkit at the end of the nursery. βIβm going to the Moon Cavern!β Greynight entered the den, looking exhausted and weary. βOf course Greynight. I wish you well on your trip.β Flowerstar nudged his shoulder, allowing the grey medicine cat to pass back out the entrance. The ginger tom felt a pit of something in his chest. He didnβt know what it was, but it always seemed to happen when Daisykit and Blazekit were nearby. It pained him, like guilt, but not a guilt for the kits. A sort of repulsion. Jealousy.
Greynight walked softly up the trail to the Moon Cavern, where he was to meet the medicine cats of the other Clan. He wasnβt sure wether to share his knowledge of the prophecy, or not. A scent of herbs became stronger as he approached the last climb towards the Moon Cavern. βGreynight.β He looked up as he saw Rosepoolβs tortoiseshell head peer over the climb. βGo to the side where the branches are. Itβs easier to climb.β A tiny voice came after, Robinpaw. βThanks.β The grey tom responded, grasping his paws onto where a clutter of branches cling to the hill. He shoved himself up, and after much effort, Greynight successfully stood on flat ground.
βCongrats for getting up that ledge.β Shadefang have a rumbly purr, lifting one of his front paws up. βMy paws arenβt what they used to be.β
βIs Carppaw doing okay?β Greynight turned to see brown tabby Robinpaw approach behind him, her eyes filled with sympathy. βIt seems so. Although his leg is scarred quite deeply now.β Greynight replied, turning back to Shadefang. The cats gathered further together as they got ready to enter then den, before Silverpool stepped infront of them. The silver she cat sat for a second, beckoning a paw to a bush. Puzzled, Greynight watched as a young tortoiseshell stepped out the bushes, her green eyes wide with caution and fear. βWe wonβt hurt you, donβt worry.β Rosepool said gently. βSo whatβs your name?β βFernpaw.β Fernpaw puffed out her chest proudly. βIβm Silverpoolβs new apprentice.β
Silverpool hadnβt informed the other medicine cats of the new arrival of a young apprentice, but maybe that announcement was saved to be said at the Moon Cavern. βCongrats Fernpaw. I wish you well with your training.β Greynight dipped his head, the tom casually entered the cavern, watching as light became more sparse as the tunnel climbed on. Amber eyes suddenly illuminated beside him, and he realised with a bout of relief that it could only be Rosepool.
βDid you hear about the prophecy?β Greynight asked, curious to wether the other medicine cats knew about the prophecy which had been given by Haretooth. βNo, I never did.β Rosepool gulped, suddenly stopping in the darkness. βWhat was it about?β Greynight looked over his shoulder. Robinpaw stood, looking hesitant, along with Fernpaw, terrified out of her soul. Greenpaw just looked confused. Poor cat, came here to receive her medicine cat name, and now Iβve shocked them all Greynight thought with instant regret. The older medicine cats looked just as shocked. βShade tongues with StarClan. Then Iβll tell you afterwards if you havenβt been told.β Greenpawβs eyes averted around the den, and her eyes fixed on Greynightβs. He couldnβt help but feel a pang of guilt. For all of them, in-fact. Now they thought something dangerous was going to happen, and to be fair, so did Greynight. He had no idea of what the prophecy meant. But the hint of danger in the words that Haretooth had spoken told him something of a disturbing nature was arriving to the Clans. βI shall inform HailClan of the upcoming prophecy.β Rosepool, somehow, stood tall in the small cavern. βSame, with SnowyClan.β Shadefang chuckled unexpectedly, then facing to Greenpaw. βSomeone needs to receive their medicine cat name now.β
βStay close, kits.β Thrushfoot insisted to her son and daughter as they left the nursery. I canβt help but feel protective... The queen sighed, slowly walking out the nursery after the two kits. It was a stormy day, a one for rain, Shadefang said. Although the Clan werenβt fussed about this particular storm, they adapted well to the forest that they took territory in. βHowβs Waterwish?β Thrushfoot approached Crackpelt, who was sitting quietly, watching the Clan. βSheβs doing well.β He said huskily. βHer wounds still need redressing, so I offered to do it when Greenpaw and Shadefang were out.β βThatβs good.β Thrushfoot responded, noticing the sparse amount of cats that were in the camp. Only Cindertail watched on curiously. Cloudpaw stretched outside, but the way his pelt spiked he would probably go inside, due to the wind. βPatchkit, Splashkit!β She called out, seeing the two kits playing on the tree stump where cats sharpened their claws. βCanβt catch me!β Splashkit squeaked, jumping off the log enthusiastically, her stubby tail waving in the air. βWanna bet?β Patchkit chuckled, tackling his sister to the ground. βYou donβt think Iβm being too protective do you?β Thrushfoot spoke to Cindertail, shocked out of her daze. βOf course not, Thrushfoot. Youβre their mother. You want to care for them, even if you want to be a warrior still.β I suppose She heaved under her breath, looking back to the spot where the kits were. I should be glad to have these two, especially after Greykit, Cliffkit and Dewkit.. The black and white she cat approached the area where the kits had been playing, not hearing anymore joyous squeals. No Splashkit running from her brother. No Patchkit pouncing on his sister. She tasted the air, and with terror recognised the harsh smell at once. βThe kits are gone!β Thrushfoot yowled, rubbing through the bushes, miraculously hoping that they would be there. Cindertail was searching bushes, jumped out of her daydream completely . βTheyβre not in here.β Crackpelt whispered, he came to her and set his tail on her shoulder. βThey will be fine Thrushfoot. Donβt worry about it.β βWell I am!β She snapped, then instantly felt guilty. They retraced back to where the kits had last been. βIsnβt that the scent which was at the gathering. When that rogue captured Sorrelpelt?β Cindertail muttered beside them. Thrushfoot collapsed on her haunches, sitting down. Night! Night and his group have taken them!
Chapter 8
βWaterwish, stay lying down for me.β Greenshade sighed as the stubborn golden cat attempted to get up. Who couldnβt blame me? She thought, grumbling at the brown tabby above her. For the past quarter moon, she had been confined to the medicine den, missed a gathering, and a stabbing pain in her neck. βWhen do you think them FrostClan will be gone?β Waterwish tilted her head slightly to Greenshade, who looked alarmed. βIβm not to sure.β She murmured quietly, βAlthough I doubt weβve seen the last of them with that wound you got given.β The tabby sighed, curling up into the bed of fronds tightly, hoping to at least produce some body heat. The last couple of sunsrises had been cooler for the Clan. βGo and check on Thrushfoot, will you?β Waterwish snapped at the quiet she cat all of a sudden. Greenshade nodded her head, running out the den quickly. Ever since her kits had been reported fully missing, Thrushfoot had been moping around. She became swallowed by her grief, not doing anything. βPoor thing.β Waterwish murmured out loud into the darkness. βNo one should her have the pain of losing a kit.β Realising her sudden outburst as wrong, Waterwish felt tempted to go see Greenshade and apologise, but the wrapping around her neck stopped her doing so. Greenshade seemed more alert than usual. Same with Shadefang. They werenβt their usual calm selves. βMaybe something happened while they were at the Moon Cavern.β She trailed off as Greenshade padded back in, Thrushfoot following. βTheyβre gone. Theyβre gone.β Thrushfoot repeated, her voice quiet, but chilling. The black and white cat staggered across the den as Waterwish watched in grief. βPatchkit and Splashkit will be okay, Thrushfoot. Donβt worry. The group canβt do much to them.β Waterwish mewed, trying to comfort the queen, who looked back at her with sharp eyes. βOh trust me, they will. Theyβre a danger to us all, but everyoneβs to naive to admit it.β Thrushfoot spat. βYou donβt know what Iβve seen, Waterwish. Two cats. Killed infront of my very eyes. By Night.β βWill you stop going on about that stupid Night cat.β A new voice entered the den, Flintstar. βItβs a load of gossip, isnβt it? Just so you can get attention because your half-Clan litter is dead. They shouldnβt have even been born, the pieces of Fox-dung.β Waterwishβs jaw dropped as Flintstar scoffed at Thrushfoot, who looked deathly furious. βNight is real, Flintstar. But you are just too oblivious to the truth. That youβre a bad leader.β Flintstar growled, the fur on his neck sticking up. βI am not a bad leader. You are a bad reputation to this Clan.β βI think we should break this up.β Greenshade murmured, stepping in between the two cats. Flintstar hissed, spitting as he walked out the den, muttering inaudible things which Waterwish couldnβt hear. Then the medicine den was left in an awkward silence, Thrushfoot flexing out her claws. βHe doesnβt believe me. He doesnβt believe his Clan. He wants to think that everythingβs perfect, when he knows itβs not.β Night and his group had been torturing the Clan in the past seasons, wrecking scent barriers, stealing prey, even border skirmishes occurred. But Flintstar would refuse to believe any of it. He doesnβt trust anyone. Not even his own Clan. βThe only one he trusted was Russetpelt.β Shadefang suddenly came out the shadows, his black pelt blending in extremely well. βFlintstar wants to believe everything is back to the day when Russetpelt was here, which includes, no Night, no rogues.β He directed his attention mostly to Thrushfoot. βIβm sorry you have to go through this Thrushfoot.β The black and white she cat nodded a pitiful thanks, and she curled up in defeat. βFive kits lost. What else can I lose?β
Whirlflight lay low, his body quivering with slight fear as he slunk across the border. No one had any idea he was here. Time to see whatβs up with these mangepelts. He nodded to himself, tasting the air once more. A faint smell of cat was coming further up ahead, but it was stale and from a few sunrises ago. Spreading his weight out evenly, he took an agile leap over the border, cringing as he fell into crinkling leaves. I donβt think anyone heard that. In Whirlflightβs eyes, FrostClan were the source of the problem. Waterwish has been seriously wounded by them, because they thought they stole their prey. The situations across the four Clans were confusing. StormClan and HailClan were tense with one another, StormClan accusing HailClan of stealing prey. He knew as Sandstar and Flowerstar had announced it at the gathering, both creating a huge brawl between the two. Whereas, he had no idea what was going on between FrostClan and SnowyClan. But I know Iβm here to get justice for Waterwish. His eyes narrowed, and his face contorted in anger as he remembered the golden tabby being brought into camp, blood dripping everywhere.
Darting our a few more steps, he waited hesitantly. The ginger and black cat wanted to find FrostClanβs main camp before going any further. βSmart cats. They have their camp pretty deep into the territory.β He said aloud. As he said that, a rustle came from the bushes behind him. Briskly turning his head, a wave of fear swallowed him before he plunged it back down. βShow yourself.β He snarled, remaining at a firm stance. βI may not be on my Clanβs territory, but I will not tolerate a stranger on any Clan land.β The scent was weird. Smelling strongly of Twolegs and a sour tang which pierced his nose.
The cat stepped out, bearing their fangs. βWhirlflight.β βNight.β βI am here to tell you something. Your kits are with me and my cats.β Whirlflight gasped, dropping his tail. βWhy did you take them?β
βTo cause Thrushfoot more pain, why do you think? She betrayed me. Our love, shattered.β Whirlflight snarled, stepping forward to the grey tom, who scoffed. βThrushfoot never loved you. You only wanted her for kits, Night.β Night nodded back at Whirlflight, unsheathing his claws lightly. βAnd the kits that were given were not adequate enough were they? No wonder Greykit was killed off so early. Couldnβt stand the piece of dung.β The calico tom paced back, taking time to compose himself for a second. Night killed Greykit. βYou know what Night? Thrushfoot didnβt betray you. You betrayed her. She loved, she truly did. But you manipulated everything . Meanwhile she thought you loved her, you were mates with another cat!β Night snorted, sitting down expectantly. βTell me more. Iβm interested in what more stupid words can spill out your mouth.β Whirlflight growled in frustration, coming closer to Night. βBut there was always one cat who knew, wasnβt there Night? He knew what you were doing. And that almost killed you. I wish he had- but he was too nice. Thatβs what got him killed.β βAnd who would this be?l Night answered coldly, holding up his paw and glancing at his claws, a menacing glare over his face.
βHaretooth. Your brother.β
Night looked shocked for a second, his eyes filling with... fear??
βI want something in exchange first.β
βAnd what would that be?β
βYour life. Or the kits die.β
Whirlflightβs eyes widened.
βYour choice, Whirlflight.β Night stepped up to the tom, his eyes cruelly glaring into Whirlflightβs.
βThe kits lives, or yours?β
Chapter 9
Redkit POV
Being awoken to a denful of complaining cats was not one way Redkit wanted to wake up. As he got up from his scrap of a nest, shaking his numb limbs pitifully, a large weight took the red tabby down in one blow. Blazekit! Redkit snarled to himself, turning to find the pure white cat rolling back onto his paws as quick as a flash. βWhat was the point in that?β Redkit groaned, sending a shooting glare at the kit, while he washed his pelt angrily, his eyes still on the tom.
βJust wanted to wake you.β Blazekit said, a crack of a smile on his face. He lumbered forward, jumping up for a split heartbeat. βDonβt even think about it.β Redkit narrowed his eyes, stepping away from where Blazekit were to crash into him. βYouβre no fun anymore.β Blazekit sighed, his eyes widening as he saw Flowerstar, and going to rush over to his foster mother. She washed his ears softly.
Redkit was annoyed. Oaksplash was there too. The whole lot of them. Sweetkit, Hawkkit, seemed content. His parents, beaming, loving gazes in their bright eyes. When he was there, he didnβt see any of that. Redkit wouldnβt imply his own family hated him, of course they didnβt. The red tabby hated feeling like an outcast. But it couldnβt be helped. βEvery problem always has a source.β He concluded, turning slowly to the six cats. βThe source being the outcasts.β Sighing loudly, he shuffled to the other side of the nursery. The outcasts became loved, and the loved became outcast.
It was his final conclusion. End of. He was brought back to reality when an oh-so familiar voice called to him. Blazekit, jumping up and down, waving his stupid red-feathery tail around. βWhat do you want?β He called back, trying not to let the gallon of jealousy deep into his voice. βYou wanna fight it out?β
βIβd like to see you try.β He sneered simply, bending down into a crouch and circling Blazekit, deciding his first move of attack. The kit infront of him was gazing back, blue eyes clear. Only a slight flicker of anger fogged in his eyes before condensing our again. βWhy do you hate me?β Blazekit asked, holding one paw up in question. βIβve never done anything to you.β
βYou took my family away from me.β Redkit said harshly. βFlowerstar barely recognised me. I doubt she knows my name.β He took a step closer, amber eyes narrowing. The white tom backed up, his tail fluffed up in defence. βNo claws.β He warned, shaking his head disapprovingly. Redkit scoffed, sheathing his claws again. Redkit didnβt know what to think. A painful pang was in his chest, and a bitterness filled him. Blazekit was right. He had never done anything. But he had taken the attention. What does he expect? Flowerstar doesnβt even know my name! Redkit snarled in anger, dashing towards Blazekit in a heartbeat. He looked frightened for a second, before striking his front paws at Redkitβs face and pushing him to the floor. βIm sorry, okay? I donβt know what you want.β Blazekit admitted, however still pushing Redkit downwards. βYou wouldnβt understand what itβs like without parents!β Redkit hissed loudly, striking at Blazekitβs pelt. βNo, YOU wouldnβt.β Blazekit looked at him furious. βBoth my parents are dead. At least you have a family, and even if you donβt have all the attention, you have more than you realise.β βYouβre taking it away from me, thatβs what! You pulled my family away from me.β Redkit attempted to argue back, but Blazekit dragged him into the dirt, a face of horror and disgust?
β My mother died giving birth to me and Daisykit. My father died protecting us.β Blazekitβs voice was hauntingly soft. βBe glad you are surrounded by loving cats, a safe Clan. Not monsters who treat you like slaves day on and day out.β βAnd why are you saying this? A pity story?β Redkit scoffed at him. Pathetic. βBecause that happened to me and Daisykit.β Blazekit stared at him expectantly. The white tom saw a flicker in Redkitβs eye, and became hopeful. Maybe he would have some sympathy. βLike that would happen. Youβre just a liar looking for pity.β
His eyes beginning to fog up, Blazekit clenched his jaw, blinking rapidly and dashed away from the tom. βHeβll just never listen. I guess some just canβt be changed, no matter what you do.β
Greynight watched, his eyes following Blazekitβs tail as he walked out the nursery. The medicine cat had seen it all, and the prophecy ringing in his ears was becoming stressful.
βYou okay, Greynight?β Dapplepaw approached him, her voice questioning and gentle. Gazing at Dapplepaw, he sighed.
βIβm afraid not, Dapplepaw. With Sorrelpelt gone, the prophecy to worry about and constant stress about Night and his rogues.β βNight and his rogues?β Dapplepawβs amber eyes went wide as she blinked. βArenβt they the ones that killed Kinkkeaf, my mother?β
Looking at her expectant stare, he sighed, shifting his haunches to make himself more comfortable. βIβm afraid so. She was fighting, in the midst of battle. You were too young to remember - but she was struck down with a single clawslash. I think her name was Patter.β
Dapplepaw nodded her head, swivelling her ear to be flattened. βI wish I couldβve known her better.β
Greynight silently agreed. Kinkleaf had been one of the best in the Clan. Although slightly more seasons older than the average warrior, that wouldnβt stop her. When she learned she was expecting kits, she was delighted. He smiled a little, at the happy memory. His eyes averted to Dapplepaw. She would be so proud of her daughter. βNeither should Tawnyfrost have died, or Breezebrook.β Another stab of grief pierced his heart, the former deputy, Breezebrook, who had stepped back down to be a warrior, allowing Rushcloud take lead. Tawnyfrost, the upbeat calico who would bring a cheer, but fiercely protective.
βYouβve just got to learn to live with it.β Dapplepaw sighed, speaking to the air. βEven if a prophecy breaks the Clan.β
βYeah..β Greynight wandered off, now his eyes following Redkit, who was in a huff. βEven if it breaks the cats in the Clan.β
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