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π―π¬ππ’π« [Finished!!][ππ¬πͺπͺπ’π«π±!]
May 28, 2017 10:30:09 GMT -5
mintedstar/furπ¦, ~Sapphire~, and 3 more like this
Post by larkfeather on May 28, 2017 10:30:09 GMT -5
I am open to constructive criticism! I know there are some things wrong that I need to fix, I go through it every now and than to fix minor mistakes. Plot holes, character problems, anything, just let me know! There is an alliagence in the works, but that will take awhile to complete.
***If you do not like LGBTQ+ characters, I don't care. Personally, I viewed Phoenix and Renegade as being previously together, and Korra and Shado currently in a relationship.***
Thin, wispy clouds floated across the illuminated sky as a quiet, soothing wind pushed through the surrounding trees. The half-moon slowly rose across the sky, resting at its peak, casting a pale shine on two cats sitting on a tall, grassy hill. Moonshine reflected off the tom revealing thick muscles beneath is stripped brown fur. Sitting close to him was a pretty white tabby she-cat, her crystal blue gaze locked onto the moon.
βOh, Gorsewhisker, you can see everything from up here!β She murmured softly, her eyes shifting from dark night sky to the tabby next to her. She leaned against the tom, soaking in his warmth and reassuring scent.
βYes, my dear, you can.β he murmured softly into her ear,βOne day weβll be sitting here as our kits play at our paws.β He rubbed his nose against his cheek, a purr echoing from his throat.
She pulled away from him, her crystal gaze now clouded with doubt. Her head angled at the sky again, her eyes shut,βYouβre all I have, you know that right? After Sootfire diedβ¦β Windecho trailed off, struggling to continue after the mention of her brothers death.
βThen we will run away!β Gorsewhisker proclaimed, thrusting his muzzle to the sky, βThere isnβt anything here for me either,β his tone softened,βWe could leave and never look back. The Clans havenβt done anything but take away the ones we love.β A brisk wind breezed around the two cats, making the thin pines behind clatter ominously.
βWhat about your clan? They need you now more than ever after the battle with EarthClan.β She leaned against him, aware of the scars that he now bore because of the battle three nights prior. Her heart was in her throat, he was everything to her, and the idea of never seeing him again made her feel sick with loneliness,βYou also have Tigertail.β
βHa!β He snorted at the mention of his arrogant, battle crazed brother,βHe has been different since I was made deputy.β Gorsewhisker shook his head,βWindecho, youβre all I need.β
βYou know how much I love you, right?β She murmured, giving his scruffy cheek a reassuring lick,βAre you sure you want to leave?β
βOf course!β His heart leaped,βWe will leave after the Gathering in half a moons time.β Fear pricked his pelt, the tip of his fur stood on end out of fear and concern if they were caught.
βRight,β she nodded,βI canβt wait.β Windecho purred as she got to her paws. She began to trot away towards the hillside when she stopped abruptly. Her white tabby fur was on end, a growl rose in her throat as her ears slid back.
Gorsewhisker got to his paws and stalked over to her, his claws unsheathing. His eyes narrowed when he finally caught wind of the stench that had surprised Windecho.
βYouβre such a disappointment, you know that?β A sneer came from the shadows as a red tabby tom stepped out into the moonlight.
βTigertail!β He hissed, digging his claws into the soft grass underneath his paws,βWere you spying us?!β Rage flickered in the tabby tomβs dark oak eyes.
βItβs a good thing I was,β Tigertail circled the two cats, his claws shimmering in the moonlight,βYouβve broken the warrior code, Shellstar wonβt be too happy about that, now will he?β
Gorsewhisker flinched at the mention of IceClans leader, holding his tongue at the snide comment that popped into his head, instead he just glared at his brother. Windecho stood close to him, her head held high to hide her fear.
βUnless you give up being deputy, every cat will know of this whole affair.β Tigertail threatened with a glint of hunger for power in his vivid amber eyes. His long stripped tail curled under Windechos chest as he passed infront of her,βDonβt get me wrong, I see the attraction. She is a pretty little thing.β
A low growl originated in the back of her throat as her eyes narrowed, becoming angered blue water with a thin black slit. Her claws unsheathed right before she tackled Tigertail to the ground. Windecho held her right paw to his throat, claws extended,βIf you tell anycat, donβt think I wonβt kill you.β Both Gorsewhisker and Windecho knew that she didnβt have the heart to kill anycat, the threat was hopefully enough for Tigertail to leave them alone.
βDo you honestly think that little threat scares me?β He questioned, meeting her angered blue gaze with his own. His body relaxed, giving Windecho a false sense of secuity and let her guard down enough for Tigertail to shove his hind legs into her belly, flinging her several tail-lengths away.
Gorsewhisker reacted, launching himself into Tigertail before he got to Windecho. He dug his claws into the red tabby tom and started to tear into him. His brother fought back just as violently, trying to give Gorsewhisker a crippling wound to his belly. The two toms tussled for several heartbeats, mercilessly clawing at eachother. Several moons of pent-up anger was finally coming out, and certainly not in a peaceful manner.
Gorsewhisker, with all the strength he could muster, shoved Tigertail off of him, sending him smack into a stone with a sickening thud. Guilt surged through Gorsewhisker immediately as he sped over to his brother, realizing with a sinking heart that he was dead.
βWhat did I do?β He murmured, his voice broken with discorded grief,βWe never got along, but I didnβt want him dead.β Gorsewhisker gazed at Tigertailβs body as blood began to pool around him.
βDo you still want to leave?β Windecho whispered quietly in his ear as she stood closely to him, resting her tail on his shoulder reassuringly.
βOf course, I have no choice now, the plans are still the same though, I need to get his body back and at least help with the rebuilding of IceClanβs camp.β He responded,βGo, go home, clean yourself off first of course.β Gorsewhisker gave her a quick lick on the cheek before he grasped Tigertailβs scruff gently.
He said nothing he watched Windecho through sorrowful eyes as she trotted away towards FireClanβs borders. Concern and worry made his limbs feel heavy, unable to move for a few heartbeats. I just have to get through a couple of days, than we will be together.
βThe heart is not always the most trustworthy to listen to,β An ominous but eerily familiar voice whispered in his ear. Panic arose through Gorsewhisker, resulting in him releasing Tigertailβs scruff. His body hit the ground with a soft thump. He whirled around, only to meet muzzle to muzzle with a black and white tom.
βS-Shellstar?β He stuttered, remorse and shock spread throughout him immediately. The warrior was beginning to question how the injured and old leader had gotten there considering he was wounded fairly badly, until it hit him. Shellstar must have succumbed to his wounds, and his last live must be up.
βGorsewhisker, it is your time...You have no other option. Iceclan needs you.β He murmured, resting his tail on Gorsewhiskerβs shoulder. Instead of feeling the comforting tail of his fallen leader, there was nothing, only a strange cold that sent a shiver down the tabbyβs spine. What about our plans? What about me murdering my brother?
βEven with all Iβve done?β Gorsewhisker shook his head, unable to accept that he would have to lead IceClan, given that he broke the warrior code and killed his brother. His heart sank as he realized that he would never be able to be with Windecho, that he had lost his only chance to be happy.
βTigertailβ¦β Shellstar trailed off for a few moments, unsure of what to say,βThat was an accident, he is was at just at as much fault as you are.β The starry tom lifted his head to look Gorsewhisker dead in the eye,βBut this thing with Windecho, it has to end, you know that right?β
βI know,β the tabby tom sighed, sorrow and lonliness flowed throughout him. He truly lost everything, his mentor, brother, and mate. There was nothing for him but the duty to serve his Clan and be the best possible leader he could be.
Shellstar nodded, his head tossed to the sky as an owl screeched overhead. βStarClan calls.β His black and white fur began to fade as he slowly rose into the air where he disappeared within a few heartbeats.
As soon as Shellstar disappeared, Gorsewhisker trudged back to camp, dragging Tigertail along side. Wind rushed through the thick trees, causing them to creepily rattle together. Straining his ears, he could barely hear a rough whisper,βThree become four, led by one who is alone in their own right, brightened by a resurrected fire, comforted by a constant ripple.
Chapter One
βGood catch Larkpaw!β A sandy tabby meowed as she observed a young she-cat through the thick foliage. Embarrassment flooded the apprentice as she tripped over the rabbit as she dragged it over to her mentor.
Hawkfireβs eyes shone proudly at her apprentice, although Larkpawβs brother, Darkpaw, eyes were dark with annoyance as he had only caught a scrawny robin. He was always competitive and could easily beat her in battle practice, but not even he could compete with her speed.
βSince this is just the dawn patrol, you two can share it,β she meowed,βBut unless a warrior says to, never hunt on border patrols without permission.β Hawkfire reminded them, not for the first time.
Darkpaw just let out an obnoxious snort before beginning to devour the rabbit. Larkpaw bent beside her darker brother and inhaled the warm flesh.
Hawkfire hung back, waiting patiently for the apprentices to finish eating. The white she-cat leaned back, sitting on her hunches, Hawkfire sprang to her paws,βNow keep up!β
No fair! She thought to herself, taking off after her mentor. Darkpaw reacted moments later, speeding after Larkpaw and Hawkfire. The two apprentices were neck and neck, racing after the warrior, quickly catching up to her.
Overtaking Darkpaw was simple enough as Larkpaw lengthened her stride, propelling her lithe, scrawny body forwards with ease. She refused to give up as the energy began to drain from her limbs, but Larkpaw pushed on as she reached Hawkfire. The apprentice reached for the ground, claws extended, pushing herself forwards, launching herself ahead of the sandy she-cat.
βLarkp-β She heard Hawkfire warn, but it was too late, Larkpaw had realized what her mentor had done when her paws no longer touched ground. The apprentice stumbled down a short bank, flopping ungracefully down into a calm stream.
Larkpaw growled to herself, standing up in the shallow creek. βYou tricked me!β She climbed her way up the bank, fur completely soaked. The white tabby stopped for a few heartbeats and gave herself a violent shake, sending water droplets spraying over Darkpaw and Hawkfire.
βNo, I taught you a lesson. Control your strengths,β Hawkfire flicked her tail,βI am well aware of your speed, Larkpaw. I ran as hard as I could just to be a challenge.β Her sides heaved, hinting that she had strained herself testing Larkpaw.
βI canβt wait for the day where I can be free of your lessons,β Larkpaw mumbled as a shiver shook through her because of her soaked fur.
βThatβll be sooner than you think.β Hawkfire meowed, winking at Larkpaw. She pushed through the newly sprouted ferns, heading towards the FireClan border.
The two apprentices glanced at eachother, excitement sparked in their eyes. They started to follow Hawkfire, discussing their possible warrior names with delight and curiosity.
The small dawn patrol hadnβt gotten far when a dappled she-cat bounded towards them, βGorsestar is calling a meeting,β she meowed,βYour dawn patrol is the only patrol out, he wanted to wait.β Amusement sparked in the warrior's eyes when examining Larkpaw, although she didnβt question as to why the apprentice was damp.
βThank you Leopardflash,β Hawkfire meowed,βLet us head back now.β The sandy she-cat got to her paws, trotting on towards camp, with Darkpaw, Larkpaw, and Leopardflash following closely.
Between eating the rabbit, the morning run and her trip to the stream, Larkpaw felt queasy by the time they got back to camp. She trotted over to the medicine cat den, which was a dead, hollowed out tree.
Two she-cats were resting outside, sharing a mouse and chatting. The elder she-cat was a gray tortoiseshell, the other a red tabby. βLarkpaw,β The younger of the two meowed, dipping her head in acknowledgement. Her mentor, Willowcreek, got to her paws and trotted onwards towards Gorsestarβs ledge, knowing that the meeting was to start. A huge and realitvely young tom, at least for leader, stood on an outcropping ledge, his face grim. His head was held high, his dark eyes judging and blank. Thinking about it, she couldnβt recall a time where Gorsestar was actually happy. This instance was no expection either. There was something in his face that was particularly sorrowful that she wasnβt sure of its cause.
βWhat happened?β She whispered to her friend, who just shook her head in response. Redpaw made no attempt to hide the grief swimming in her eyes, leading Larkpaw to a mournful conclusion.
βAll cats able to catch prey gather below the Rock Pillar!β Gorsestar yowled. He waited a moment as cats of all color and shape revealed themselves from the several dens within the camp.
βI have terrible news,β Gorsestar stopped for a second, taking in his surroundings as the gray tortoiseshell stood next to him,βSharpfang has died.β
A shocked gasp echoed throughout the clan, but quieted rather quickly with a wave of the leaderβs tail. βHe died honorably, chasing out a couple of rogues. He saved the life of Silverpaw, but didnβt have enough strength left in him to fight against the brutal wounds.β Gorsestar lowered his head, calling for a moment of silence to honor the senior warrior.
βNoβ¦ it canβt beβ¦β A young black and white tom broke the silence, his voice shrill with pain. Redpaw left Larkpawβs side to nudge the apprentice, Drizzlepaw, to the medicine den.
βWho's the next deputy?β A scrawny tabby tom questioned with narcissistic authority. His comment was echoed by fellow warriors curious in who would take Sharpfangβs place as deputy.
βSilence!β Gorsestar snarled, narrowing his eyes to the creamy tom,βDo you dare disrespect Sharpfang by assuming you get the place Spidernose?β Gorsestar had been Sharpfangβs first apprentice after he joined IceClan, the first one to trust a former rogue, so naturally they grew close.
Spidernose shrank back, trying to escape the leaders rage. βThatβs what I thought,β Gorsestar growled,βMany of you may not know this, but he was planning on retiring in a couple of moons. We discussed this choice together, and together had decided on Talonshadow.β Surprised murmurs responded, but no one challenged Gorsestar this time. Talonshadow, while crippled with a weak shoulder, was certainly a good choice.
Larkpaw glanced over at her brother, whose coal brown eyes brightened with pride for his mentor. Beyond him, a couple of warriors muttered, their voices thick with uncertainty. Spidernose, as well as a she-cat similar in appearance had their backs turned, evidently not agreeing to this choice.
The clan dispersed and most of the warriors gathered around Talonshadow to both congratulate him and to recieve orders. The queens returned to their den, while the apprentices gathered excitedly.
βPoor Drizzlepawβ¦β A tortoiseshell she-cat murmured as Larkpaw joined the group,βI hope heβs going to be okayβ¦β
βIβm sure he will be, Flypaw.β Darkpaw meowed, still glowing with pride after his mentor being announced as deputy.
βHe lost his father! You wouldnβt know what thatβs like, now would you? Tame-bloods!β Flypaw snapped in response, her tortoiseshell tail lashing angrily.
Both Larkpaw and her brother flinched, Flypaw had brought up a valid point. Tame-bloods often referred to the kits of rogues and kittypets, and always used as an insult. She never knew her parents, just that Gorsestar had brought her and Darkpaw to the clan with no answers at only a few days old. Many cats speculated their origin, but leader denied everything, refusing to just leave two kits on their own.
Darkpaw jumped to his paws, eyes narrowed,βYou wanna find out how much clanblood I have in me? Fight me mouse-heart!β His claws unsheathed and he prepared to attack the snappy tortoiseshell. Larkpaw quickly stepped in front of her brother, knowing all too well he had no problem attacking Flypaw.
βDarkpaw! Quit it!β A growl silenced the group of apprentices as Talonshadow padded over,βIs that how a warrior should act, threatening a Clanmate? Or the deputyβs apprentice?β
βIβm sorry Talonshadowβ¦β He muttered, ears flat against his skull. Darkpaw shrank back to try and avoid his mentors rage.
βIf you keep acting like this, Larkpaw will be a warrior before you,β The marble tabby tom teased with a lighter tone,βJust go hunting with Leopardflash and Redpaw.β
βIsnβt Redpaw a medicine cat?β Darkpaw pointed out enthusiastically, keen to show
off his skills to anyone and everyone.
βAll cats can hunt, and it canβt hurt to have an extra paw. She isnβt needed right now,β Talonshadow meowed patiently,βNow, Larkpaw. Youβre going fishing with Lightfeather. She needs a distractionβ¦β He trailed off, his point made clear. Lightfeather was already an introverted cat, but it certainly didnβt help that her mate died.
Larkpaw nodded, leaving Darkpaw to mutter angrily to himself. She searched the camp for the gray tabby she-cat, whom had just emerged from the medicine cat den.
She trotted over to Lightfeather,βTalonshadow suggested for us to go fishing.β Larkpaw meowed softly, βAre you up for it?β
βOf course,β Lightfeather lifted her striped head, although her voice was thick with grief. She headed towards the camp entrance, despite her head being held high, her tail drug in the grass.
While it was true Larkpaw hadnβt lost anyone close to her, she could still feel sympathy even if it wasnβt to the same degree as those suffering. Larkpaw and never known her parents, no cat really raised her and Darkpaw. She fell into step behind Lightfeather, knowing that idle chit-chat wouldnβt help her in anyway. Despite that conclusion, Larkpaw still tried to offer a distraction,βWhereβs the best place to fish?β
Lightfeather hesitated, as if considering carefully how to answer her question. βJust like you donβt hunt in one area too long, you canβt fish in mainly one area.β Her clouded green gaze kept focused ahead as she picked her way cautiously through some loose thorn strands. βButβ¦β She briefly went solemn,βMy favorite area is Deer River.β The river that Lightfeather spoke of was the border separating Iceclan and Fireclan.
find a decent and safe spot to fish.
βIt is, but prey is prey.β Lightfeather meowed, her gaze still intent on the water,βBesides, some cats do enjoy fish.β She waded a couple of mouse lengths in, unbothered by the chilled water.
Larkpaw reluctantly waded into the low river to crouch next to Lightfeather,βHow many warriors actually know how to do this?β She positioned herself in mimic of the gray tabby, putting her weight heavily on hunches. The cold water felt cool against her fur, relaxing the apprentice as she shifted her position slightly to get comfortable.
βFew,β Lightfeather got to her paws, examining Larkpawβs stance. She nosed the apprentice forwards slightly,βMe, Drizzlepawβ¦β She hesitated, jaws open. Lightfeather shook her head, continuing,βGorsestar, Stormytooth.β The silver gray she-cat padded to where Larkpaw was to finish off the fish.
βOh,β Larkpaw murmured, her gaze intent on the water. She attempted to lash out at one of the silver flashes, but missed. The apprentice let out a hiss before repositioning herself to strike again.
βFishing requires much patience,β Lightfeather meowed quietly.
βThat explains why no one fishes,β She growled, flicking her tail impatiently. Larkpaw narrowed her eyes, quickly extending her unsheathed paw into the water. Surprise flashed through her as she realized that something cold, slimy was hooked onto her claws. She jerked her paw out of the water, caught in the grasp of her claw was a decent sized fish.
βQuick! Toss it towards me!β Lightfeather said,βBefore it wiggles away!β The apprentice shook her paw to free herself of the fish towards the warrior, who snatched it in the air before it hit the ground.
βGreat job!β The warrior meowed after setting the limb body on the other two fish,βWeβll fish until sun-down.β
Time flew by quickly, resulting in Larkpaw getting fairly wet again. As Lightfeather and Larkpaw began to collect their prey, a shout came from the top of the opposite bank,βAre those IceClan cats or fish?β The teasing came from an obviously arrogant tabby tom. Behind him stood a young brown and white tabby tom, and two ginger apprentices.
βOh shut it Breezebeck!β Lightfeather growled, whisking her tail as she turned to return his glare.
βLike weβre scared of two fish!β he retorted,βRipplestreak and I can easily take you!β Breezebeck hadnβt included the ginger she-cats, they seemed rather young to be jumping into a battle. Ripplestreak, the other tabby tom just stood there quietly and calmly, murmuring something in Breezebeckβs ear.
Breezebeck responded with a thick sigh in response to whatever the other FireClan warrior had said before turning away without another word, a scowl heavy in his face.
βJust like Breezebeck, to throw around threats and to be calmed down by a new warrior!β Lightfeather muttered, loud enough for all the cats to hear. The tabby tom flinched, but Ripplestreak just nudged him on, away from the border.
βRipplestreak seems a little young for a warrior,β Larkpaw commented, gathering up some of the fish.
Lightfeather shrugged,βI think they found him wandering the territory at a couple moons old, no cat actually knows his actual age.β She gathered up the remainder of the fish, leading the way back to camp.
Chapter Two
Over the next couple of sunrises, the Clan was busy with spring, bringing prey out of their dens. Plentiful of prey wasnβt the only thing happening, several cats had gotten close over the course of the harsh winter. Snowflare had gotten rather close Pinefoot, Larkpaw even heard whispers of kits in the future. Sunstrike and Brightstorm had already announced that they were expecting of kits.
Larkpaw slipped out from the apprentices den, a huge trunk of a dead oak when she caught wind of foreign scent. Her haunches bristled cautiously as her eyes flickered around the camp, looking for anything out of the ordinary. A few heartbeats later, the brambles that acted as a buffer from an outside world, rustled. Instead of a predator, three cats padded into the clearing, none of which she had never seen led by Petalstep.
She watched curiously from the entrance of the rotten log, her claws kneading into the ground, impatiently waiting for the reason for the arrival of the strangers. Petalstep led them up the rock cropping to Gorsestarβs den.
βWhy is Thornstar here?β Hawkfire meowed as she trotted over to Larkpaw. The light brown she-cat glanced up at the Rock Ledge, concern clouding her eyes.
βThornstar?β She had heard of the EarthClan leader, he was often praised for his intelligence and compassion, but had never seen him herself.
Her mentor opened her jaws slightly to taste the air briefly,βHeβs the tuxedo tom, and its smells like he brought Crowheart and Thrushclaw.β She must have seen the confusion in Larkpawβs eyes, for she continued with,βCrowheart is the pale gray she-cat and is also the deputy. Thrushclaw is the black, white and ginger medicine cat.β
βOh,β Larkpaw replied, glancing up at the Rock Ledge. There was no sign of either leaders. βI have no idea, but we probably shouldnβt waste a perfectly good morning,β she meowed,βI want to know just as you, but still, there are cats to be fed.β
βLook at you, taking initiative!β Hawkfire purred, searching the camp for another cat to include in their morning activities. Her gaze settled on a scruffy russet tom,βBerryheart, are you up for some hunting?β She called to him, her tone perhaps a little too friendly.
βSure.β He replied, a joyous gleam in his eye as he got to his paws and padded over.
βWhere should we go?β Hawkfire questioned either cat,βI really donβt have a preference.β
βCould we go to Sunny Hill?β Larkpaw asked enthusiastically, her eyes a brilliant blue, brimming with excitement. Sunny Hill was a stretch of grassy plains that was home to rabbits, her personal choice of prey.
βSure.β Her mentor purred amusingly,βLead the way.β
Larkpaw blinked, surprised. Hawkfire had never given her the responsibility of leading a patrol before, even if it was just a hunting trip.
She glanced nervously at her mentor, who just nodded encouragingly towards the entrance. Larkpaw took a deep breathe and bounded out of the IceClan camp, Berryheart and Hawkfire following closely. She slowed to a lope as she maneuvered through the trees. It wasnβt long until the trees opened up, revealing a sprawling hillside, the grass an emerald green in the bright morning light.
The white tabby apprentice slowed to a halt, waiting for the two warriors to catch up. A few moments later, they caught up, stopping beside her. βSee any prey?β Berryheart questioned, his voice quiet to avoid disturbing any prey.
Larkpaw opened her jaws slightly, just enough to scent the wind for any prey. She caught wind of stale fox, likely several days old, but also rich with rabbit. βStrong scent of rabbit, old fox.β She reported, her gaze flicking across the hillside for any sign of rabbit.
βFox?β The pair glanced each other, a worry swimming in their eyes,
βOld, a couple days at least,β she meowed calmly, immediately dropping into a crouch when she spotted a rabbit nibbling some grass several fox-lengths away. The wind, luckily, was blowing towards them, hiding their scent.
βWeβll head around, you chase it towards me.β Hawkfire murmured and took off heading left as Berryheart went right around, heading towards the top of the hill.
Larkpaw waited a couple of heartbeats until they were in position until she leaped to her paws, gunning straight towards the rabbit. She dug her claws into the grass, getting a better grip, propelling herself forwards.
She was within a few tail lengths when the rabbit noticed and panicked, darting right up the hill towards Berryheart. Larkpaw slowed, watching as he took a few steps forwards as it got closer and suddenly burst into action, running after the rabbit with everything he had. Berryheart leaped when he got within distance, sinking his claws into bunny. It let out a screech of pain before collapsing. The russet tom killed it with a quick nip to the neck.
βNice catch,β Larkpaw meowed. They were soon joined by Hawkfire, who purred in agreement.
βYou could have caught it you know,β Berryheart pointed out,βYou certainly have the speed.β
βItβs fine,β Larkpaw shrugged,βLetβs keep hunting.β
The trio didnβt return to camp until the sun was near its peak. Larkpaw, after insisting to take a trip to Deer River, caught a couple of fish, Hawkfire had caught a couple of mice, and Berryheart had added a vole to his rabbit.
She was surprised to see that Thornstar was still in the IceClan camp. He was sitting next to Gorsestar as they shared tongues. They seemed so calm and such good friends it seemed that they had been raised together in the same Clan. Larkpaw glanced around the camp but found no sign of Thrushclaw or Crowheart. Instead of dropping off her prey at the prey pile, Larkpaw trotted over to the nursery.
βHello Larkpaw,β Lightfeather purred as she entered the den. The gray tabby she-cat had returned to the nursery for the time being, her excuse was to help her sister, Flightsong, with her two kits.
The apprentice dropped both fish at Lightfeatherβs paws,βI figured you would want something to eat.β Ever since Sharpfang had died, she became quiet and more reserved. Talonshadow had taken her off of patrols for a couple of days. Surprisingly, Drizzlepaw did the quite opposite. He worked harder than any other apprentice, likely to keep his mind off of his father's death.
βThank you.β She murmured. Lightfeather neatly tucked her paws beneath her and delicately ate one of the fish.
Satisfied that the grieving warrior was eating, she padded over to Flighsong. A small smile came upon her lips when she saw the small two kits tussling with each other. The larger, a gray tom with a white chest, was tussling with a smaller white she-cat. Their mother was looking rather stuffy, her gaze remained fixated on the den entrance.
βHey, I can watch them,β Larkpaw offered.βIf youβd like to go out and hunt.β Between her and Lightfeather, she was sure that they could keep Foxkit and Snowkit entertained for a little.
βYes please!β Flightsong meowed, her tone thick with gratefulness. She slipped out of the nursery and disappeared from sight quickly.
The two kits barreled into her,βGet out of our territory, you mangy rogue!β Larkpaw hit the ground with an exaggerated gasp. Snowkit, with her claws sheathed, started to tear at her fur as Foxkit was growling and jumping on her haunches.
She heard a snort of amusement from Lightfeather as she was bombarded with the two kits. Larkpaw struggled to her paws, lightly shaking the kits off. There was a brief flash of disappointment in their eyes that soon disappeared when she let out a playful hiss. Snowkit leaped onto her back, soon followed by Foxkit trying to throw off her balance by charging at her front leg.
Larkpaw continued to play with the kits until Flightsong returned. She was looking much happier, with a bright gleam in her eyes. The kits had grown tired by then, protesting weakly that they were not tired.
βCome now, little ones, eat, and then sleep.β She murmured, curling up in her nest. Flightsong nudged the kits to her belly, where they both started to suck hungrily for milk. βThank you.β The queen meowed quietly,βI needed that.β Flightsong needed all help that she could get since there was no father to help out. Larkpaw had never seen her mate, but it wasnβt required for queens to say who the father was, so every cat just assumed it was a rogue.
She left with a nod and maneuvered out of the den, wordless. Larkpaw stretched out her long limbs when she got outside. There wasnβt too much room in the nursery for much comfort and stretching.
Gorsestar had just appeared on the Rock Ledge, without Thornstar by his side. The EarthClan leader had left while she was watching the kits.
βMay all cats old enough to catch prey and sharpen their claws gather below the
Rock Ledge!β He yowled. Those who were in camp, which perhaps half of the clan was, gathered around, looking up at their leader, concern and curiosity deep in their eyes.
He waited a few moments until the cats had gathered,βThornstar brought news of a rogue attack several sunrises ago nn EarthClan in their camp,β gasps echoed throughout the clan. No cat had heard of a group of rogues openly attacking an entire clan before. βThey lost a warrior in the fight. Robin furβs death wasnβt an accident, but murder by a purposeful killing slash to the throat. Thornstar came to warn us, for the rogue group were trying to steal kits.β
Angry yowling, as well as upset mumbling erupted from the clan. To attack a clan was one thing, but to attempt to steal kits was unheard of, even from within the Clans. βWe must keep an eye out for any rogue cats or strange scents. Report immediately to me or Talonshadow.β As he nodded his head to dismiss them, Gorsestar added,βMake sure the others are aware.β
βCome and get me!β A white tabby cat shouted over her shoulder, breezing past an oddly familiar dark tabby. The wind rippled around her, parting her fur to reveal lean, strong muscles pushing her forwards. He let out a laugh, taking off after the she-cat. No matter how hard he pushed himself, there was no catching up to her. Larkpaw took off after the two cats, easily advancing on the tom. Strangely, he made no reaction to her outpacing him.
βSlow down!β He panted, slowing down to a halt. His sides heaved, taking in their surroundings. They had passed clan boundaries, now in uncharted territory. Strange land stretched around them, outcrops of rocks and pine trees filled the landscape. The apprentice stood right in front of the she-cat, but the other white tabby darted right through her. Am I in StarClan? Who are these cats?
Her gaze shifted to the tom, standing nose to nose with him. There was something familiar, on the tip of her tongue, but she just couldnβt place it. His eyes were bright with joy, pure happiness, such of a degree that she had never seen before.
βToo fast for you?β She had turned back to meet up with the dark tabby. He turned to reply, but another voice interrupted.
βThis is not your place, not yet.β The voice said as cat padding out of the shadows. She could see the brush through him, and Larkpaw froze as she stared through the ghostly figure.
βW-Who are you? Where am I?β She demanded, meeting the cat eye to eye. Despite his transparency, she could see that it was a black and white tom.
βLittle one, do not be afraid,β He murmured, touching his nose to hers.
A cold chill spread throughout Larkpaw as their noses touched,βAm I dead?β She murmured, eyes wide. She hadnβt remembered being sick or attacked, just that after the fishing expedition she went to sleep.
He laughed, which scared the apprentice even more,βNo, you are not. StarClan is showing you something too early in my opinion, but do not forget this dream, young one. It will have importance.β The strange tom began to disintegrate as Larkpaw struggled to take everything in.
Her ears were flat, fur on end, as she thought of the worst possibilities for this strange dream. Are they of importance? What do two strangers have to do with me? With IceClan?
βDo not worry,β The raspy voice murmured in her ear,βWhile your future may not be easy, you have nothing to fear but yourself.β With those final words, the starry cat disappeared, leaving Larkpaw alone in the darkness of her dream.
Fear consumed Larkpaw as she considered his words. βWhat am I going to have to do?β She whispered to herself, her voice high and strained in terror for the future. The pale tabby apprentice begun to pace in the dream, unsure if she could or even wanted to wake up at this moment. Her mind whirled at the prospect of what sheβd have to do.
A shrill and panicked screech awoke Larkpaw with a start. The hillside had disappeared, along with any trace of the black and white tom or the other cats. She jumped to her paws, all concern for what the strange cat had said was evaporated. The apprentice scrambled out of the den, alert for any sort of threat.
Several other cats had awoken at the screech, emerging from their dens. Redpaw emerged from the medicine cat den, quickly making her away towards the nursery. The other warriors that had awaken crowded in front of the nursery, mutterings of alert and panic arose quietly.
LarkpawΕ jaw slid open to scent her surroundings. An odd, faintly familiar scent was leading a trail out of camp and farther into the forest. There was another scent, much more stronger, was of blood. She followed it to the entrance of camp, scared of what she might find.
A still, almost lifeless figure was sprawled out at the entrance of the bracken tumble. Larkpawβs heart sank when she realized, that through the blood, laid Lightfeather. βHelp! Willowcreek! Redpaw!β She yowled, frantically licking a terrible gash over her shoulder. Her breathing was extremely shallow, eyes shut tight.
βHold on Lightfeatherβ¦β She murmured,βDrizzlepaw needs you.β The apprentice gently licked the wounded warrior, unsure if sheβd survive. The attacker had sliced her from her shoulder down to her belly, and did a fair share to mutilate Lightfeatherβs face.
βLarkpaw!β Redpaw had run towards her after hearing her yowl, Darkpaw by her side. Both apprenticeβs eyes widened at the sight of Lightfeather,βDarkpaw, get Willowcreek and make sure Gorsestar is awake.β The apprentice paused, likely about to say something smart, but turned and darted off out of the tunnel.
She began examining Lightfeahter carefully, βWho, or what, did this?β Redpaw sniffed the shoulder wound,βThere was no mercyβ¦ Only to kill.β
βWill she live?β Larkpaw whispered, uncertain if she wanted to hear the answer.
Redpaw thought for a moment as she began to lick the wound,βI do not know. After what happened yesterday, she knows Drizzlepaw will need her more than ever. All we can hope is that the wound doesnβt get infectedβ¦β
Larkpaw nodded, resting her head on the ground next to Lightfeather. Willowcreek emerged from the camp, mouth crammed with leaves and one paw wrapped in cobwebs. βLarkpaw, you may go.β The medicine cat murmured in her ear,βTalonshadow needs your help.β
The apprentice nodded and quietly got to her paws. She padded towards camp with one last glance over her shoulder, desperately hoping that Lightfeather would be okay. Warriors were rushing to comfort their queens and mates, Larkpaw became aware that something else had happened. She lifted her head, seeing her brother run towards her. Gorsestar was behind him, but dispersed to talk to Talonshadow.
βWhat happened?β She asked when Darkpaw stopped next to her.
βSome rogues came in and stole Flightsongβs kits.β He meowed somberly,βLightfeather must have been guarding and whoever wanted them mauled herβ¦β
βThis is terribleβ¦ Lightfeather didnβt deserve this, whatever fox-hearted coward did this is going to get his eyes scratched out and be left for the crows.β Larkpaw growled, whisking her tail.
βCalm down Larkpaw,β Hawkfire had been conversing with Gorsestar and Talonshadow,βitβll be me and you searching down river, Darkpaw, you go back to sleep.β Darkpaw opened his mouth to protest, but he decided against it and padded away to the apprentice den.
Hawkfire lead the way out of camp, bounding out of the tunnel quickly. Larkpaw followed, her stomach clenching when they passed by Lightfeather and the medicine cats.
They had carefully tracked the strange scent to Deer River, where the scent split off into two separate groups,βWe mustn't waste time. We will split up, you head towards the Twolegplace, and Iβll check near the FireClan border.β
βAlright.β Larkpaw nodded to her mentor, taking off downstream.
She followed the scent closely, not even taking notice to her surroundings. The apprentice froze when the scent increased, now mingled in with several others. She was still in IceClan territory, but the Twolegplace was in sight. Rarely did a kittypet cross over the border, although loners and rogues werenβt uncommon.
Her hackles rose as she heard murmurs coming from the shadows. βShe could be of useβ¦β One of them hissed from above, likely lurking in the tree tops.
βShe couldβ¦ And she will.β Came a harsh whisper from the treetops. Three rogues leaped down from the surrounding trees, four more emerged from the shadows. Larkpaw gasped when she saw that two of the cats held two kits, from what she could tell, were Flightsongsβ kits.
βCome with us.β A sandy tom growled, flicking his tail. The group of cats gathered around the IceClan apprentice, their eyes narrowed.
βNo.β Larkpaw lifted her head,βI will not.β She crouched, ready to spring at whoever moved. The only cat who moved was the sandy tom, who turned quickly.
βYou will learn fast,β Before the apprentice could react, he launched himself at her, clawing her right flank,βTo not disobey.β
She stumbled forward, but caught herself. Blood trickled down from the claw marks that stretched from her right shoulder to hind leg. βNow we go.β He growled, pushing himself through the tight circle of cats. The group ushered her forwards towards the Twolegplace.
Larkpaw limped along, confusion and worry weighed her down. After the peculiar StarClan dream and Flightsongβs kits being taken, she was exhausted. What do they want? Why did they take the kits and me?
βWhisper, make sure she doesnβt fall behind.β The leader growled to the smaller ginger and white tom next to him. He nodded, falling into step with Larkpaw.
βI canβt run away, so why do you have to lurk besides me?β She growled, eyes narrowed as she glanced at her.
βDusty said to make sure you keep up, so I am.β Whisper kept his amber gaze on the path ahead.
Larkpaw let out a quiet snort, ears flat against her head. She said nothing to him throughout the rest of the walk to what would be a prison, her thoughts only went to one thing, Darkpaw. Heβd be alone now, and alone he would struggle greatly to become the phenomenal warrior she knew he could be.
They hadnβt been walking too long before they squeezed through a hole in one of the Twoleg fences. Whisper let her go in first, likely to make sure she didnβt turn and run.
Chapter Four
A large, abandoned Twoleg den rested in an overgrown yard. While there was a roof, it was flawed heavily with holes and planks of wood missing. The walls were cracked, the porch roof was in shambles. All the windows were sealed with wood planks and the cats used a rat-chewed hole at the bottom of the door. Whispers echoed throughout the garden, although she saw no cat.
The burly sand-ginger tom raised his tail for the patrol to stop,βJay, Ember, take the kits to the nursery.β Two cats broke off from the group, taking the mewling kits to a run-down shed.
The tom weaved his way through the undergrowth and slipped into the building. Several moments later, he appeared on a opening high up on the house. βCats of the Alley! Our time has come! We are to be an official Clan, with our new clanmates. Bring forth all the new members!β
Protesting growls came from the entrance of the Twoleg den as several other cats emerged. One of the rogues, a huge ginger tom, held a young apprentice by the scruff. Two warriors were shoved next to Larkpaw.
βNot a very impressive bunch,β Whisper muttered to himself, although he wasnβt the only cat thinking it. They had kidnapped two scrawny apprentices and a couple of ragtag warriors, none of the cats were impressive, frankly.
Surprise flashed through her as she noticed that the other warriors were Ripplestreak and Breezebeck, but she wasnβt sure who the apprentice was. βToday, I make us a clan! We shall be known as SoulClan, the fearless and stealthy!β He paused for a moment, gazing down at the small band of cats. βWe are joined by these four Clan cats, that will teach us their ways. I welcome Breezebeck and Ripplestreak as our first official warriors.β No cat made a congratulatory sound as the leader paused,βI welcome Larkpaw and Eaglepaw as apprentices under the newly formed SoulClan....β Larkpaw begun to drift off as Birchstar rambled on. Exhausted by the all of the drama and rogue attack, her eyelids were heavy and began to drupe.
She found herself leaning against a warm mass. The apprentice jerked awake, finding that the sandy tom was still talking. Larkpaw shifted her weight, sitting up again. She felt flush with embarrassment when she had realized that she had been leaning against Whisper.
The two cats met eyes for a brief moment before she forced her gaze away, shifting it to the leader. β-declare myself leader of SoulClan! I will travel to the Crystal Caves to request my nine lives tonight. From now on, I shall be known as Birchstar!β He paused for a moment, gazing down with a strange gleam in his eyes. βLast, but not certainly not least, I name Whisper as my deputy, with the new name of Whisperheart.β
And with that, the cats crowded around Whisperheart as Birchstar leaped down from the roof and disappeared quickly. He took control immediately,"I will learn what I can from our new members, but until then, Jayfoot take Thundersmoke and Flaretail hunting. Keep an eye out for boundaries. The rest of you, gather around. One of these cats will tell us about how Clans work." He flicked his tail and the cats followed his command. Three cats slipped out of the yard, and the rest gathered around the four Clan cats.
"Someone speak." Whisperheart growled, remaining fixated in his position next to Larkpaw. She couldnβt bring herself to move, she felt completely alone and scared, these strange cats terrified her. Larkpaw was uncertain of their intentions with her and the other Clan cats. She remained reserved, trying to become invisible by shrinking back, but was stopped by Whisperheart quietly resting his tail over hers, as if trying to reassure her.
Breezebeck, obviously arrogant and proud to be the elder warrior, began to eagerly describe Clanlife. Larkpaw glanced at Eaglepaw, the terrified apprentice that had crouched next to Ripplestreak. His eyes were wide, it was apparent that he was very scared. Ripplestreak had a calm and collected desposition, with his head held high, his body relaxed. His tail was curled around Eaglepaw perhaps as a sign that the apprentice wasnβt alone and would be protected.
Occasionally, Ripplestreak made a comment on what Breezebeck said, but neither apprentice said anything. It was mainly Whisperheart who questioned the cats, the others listened in silence. The three cats that had gone hunting returned, their jaws stuffed with prey. None of the Clan cats were given any prey, so they watched in annoyance and starvation as all other cats ate.
"Itβs getting late." Birchstar growled, leaping down from an overhanging tree. "We will start tomorrow. Tomorrow, Iβll appoint mentors. Cloudwhisker, youβll take the first shift guarding our new members. Tinyshell, you'll take over at moon-high." Night had approached rather quickly as the self-appointed leader dismissed the cats.
He began to trot away towards the Twoleg nest, but stopped for a moment to meow calmly,"If any of you leave, I will lead an attack on your clans and slaughter every cat. No mercy." Larkpaw glared at him, they eyes meeting for a brief moment. He narrowed his eyes for a heartbeat, his yellow eyes a violent pool, slit by his iris, as he briefly examined her before slipping into the Twoleg den.
"Follow me," Whisperheart meowed as the former rogues followed Birchstar,"You will stay in the nursery until further notice." They pushed through the undergrowth until they got to the small shed where Flightsongs' kits were being held. The new deputy left them at the entrance, disappearing in the direction of the nest.
"In, now." A gray and white tom, whom Larkpaw assumed was Cloudwhisker, hissed. Larkpaw followed Breezebeck in the shed, with Eaglepaw close behind her.
Breezebeck went over to the back right corner of the shed, where some grass had seeped through the floorboard. Ripplestreak shot a sympathetic glance at Larkpaw and Eaglepaw before following his clanmate.
Larkpaw glanced around the shed, catching a glimpse of a tortoiseshell fur in the shadows of a small and strange hole in the wall. It was surrounded by four walls, leaving an entrance. The tortoiseshell lifted her head as the apprentices approached her,βYou must be the former clan cats.β She murmured, glancing over the two smaller cats. βOne of you must belong to the clan where these two kits came from.β
βI am,β Larkpaw stepped forwards, her ears angled back.
The she-cat nodded,βAh, I see. I am Leafsky.β She glanced down to the three kits curled up around her belly,βMay I ask what their names are?β
βThe tomβs name is Foxkit, the she-kit is Snowkit.β The apprentice murmured. Foxkit was much larger than Snowkit, his fur a dark gray compared to Snowkits fuzzy white pelt and ginger patches.
βThis is Firekit,β She murmured, nosing the other white bundle of fur. His ears and tail tip were a pale orange, as well as his paws. βBirchstar killed his brother because he was born small and sickly. I hadnβt even named him.β Leafskyβs voice was tight with grief.
Larkpaw glanced at the tortoiseshell, her gaze soft,βI can see the kits are in good paws. I am Larkpaw, and this is Eaglepaw.β She flicked her tail to the black tabby tom.
βWell, Larkpaw, Eaglepaw, youβre welcome to whatβs left in the cabinet. Thereβs some room and rabbit leftovers if youβd like.β Leafsky offered.
βThank you,β She took a couple of steps through the entrance, surprised to find that it opened up to a tunnel of sorts. Larkpaw pressed herself against the end of the tunnel so that Eaglepaw could squeeze in next to her.
The smaller apprentice had no struggle in fitting into the cabinet. He curled up close to Larkpaw, eyes shut tight. While her stomach rumbled in hunger, sleep overtook her quickly.
Chapter Five
βI name you Darkfrost, IceClan shall honor you for your courage and skill.β Gorsestar
yowled, touching noses with the newly named warrior.
βIf only Larkpaw was here for this,β Darkfrost hissed quietly in the leaders ear. Gorsestar visibly flinched as he pulled away, but made no comment. He silently flicked his tail in dismissal, leaping back up into his tree.
Darkfrost leapt down from the chunk of rock,βItβs like she never existed.β He growled, trotting over to Redpaw.
βI know you miss her, but she has to be alive. Iβve yet to seen her in StarClan,β the medicine cat reminded Darkfrost,βwhoever took Snowkit, Foxkit, Yellowpaw, and Echostream probably took Larkpaw too.β
Hawkfire had approached the two cats and slid into the conversation,βI know, thatβs what every cat says, but itβs likely what happened.β
Darkfrost just growled,βIβm going hunting.β He turned and pushed past the two she-cats, ears flat against his head.
βGo with himβ¦β Hawkfire muttered in Redpaws ear as she gazed after the tom,βHe needs a friend.β
The medicine cat apprentice nodded and took off after Darkfrost,βWait up!β She called, almost running into the tom when he stopped abruptly.
βWe both know youβre not going hunting.β Redpaw murmured softly, gently nudging his shoulder,βWe can search together.β Several cats had disappeared and some had been stolen in the middle of the night. IceClan had lost two more cats a half moon later after Larkpaw had disappeared and the other Clans had been raided as well. Darkfrost would sneak out of camp and wander around the Twolegplace and the territory outside of Clan territory in search of his sister.
Darkfrost nodded and the two cats began to run in direction of the Twolegplace. The two IceClan cats were still within their borders, but they both skidded to a halt, their eyes wide. A large badger had emerged from the brush, claws extended and jaws snapping viciously.
βRedpaw run!β The dark tabby warrior hissed, puffing out his fur. His claws unsheathed, bunched up his shoulders to prepare to launch himself at the giant creature.
βYou canβt take on a badger alone!β She yowled, throwing herself at the badgerβs hind legs. Redpaw nipped at itβs legs, speeding away before it could strike.
Surprise at Redpawβs furiosity flashed in his eyes, but Darkfrost made no protest, instead leaped onto the badgers back. He dug his claws into its back and clamped down on its neck. It roared furiously, shaking off Darkfrost with ease. The warrior was tossed several fox-lengths away, his body landed with a soft thud against the earth. His breathing was shallow for a few moments before he got to his paws, off balance.
βNo!β Darkfrost stood, helpless, as the badger now loomed over a hissing Redpaw. There was no where else for her to go, she was cornered in front of a large boulder.
Redpaw met the beast eye to eye, fear keeping her immobile. Everything went silent as her world went black for a brief moment. When her eyes opened, she was much taller. Her body felt weird, clumsy even. She couldnβt speak or control her limbs, but only watched as a paw rose, intent to lash out at what she recognized as her body.
βGet away!β A furious howl erupted out of nowhere. Redpawβs head turned to see what the commotion was, and surprise filled her heavy limbs as she realized that a large white and brown tabby was charging towards the badger.
The cat barreled into the predatorβs flank, snapping Redpaw out of her trance. Her eyes jerked opened, revealing the tom fighting the badger mercilessly. She watched him fight breathlessly is he pushed his hind legs off the ground, hard, sinking his teeth in the badgers throat. It let out a strangled growl as it sank to the forest floor.
βThank you!β She meowed to the tom, but he was already running off into the Twolegplace. Redpaw shook herself, limbs sore. Her gaze fell upon a dark tabby mass lying at the base of a tree, βDarkfrost! No!β The medicine cat limped over to the warrior. His flanks lifted rhythmically, showing that he was okay, at least as far as Redpaw could tell.
The apprentice glanced around helplessly, she couldnβt leave Darkfrost, but he had to get help. βI canβt leave you.β She murmured to herself as she examined the clearing for anything she could use to help.
The sun had gone down by the time Darkfrost awoke. Redpaw was curled up next to him, head tilted to the dusk sky, her eyes glazed, distant in thought. She had repaired him the best she could, with cobwebs and several other herbs she had been able to find.
βI can make it back to camp.β Darkfrost declared, cautiously getting to his paws.
βCareful, you bruised some ribs.β Redpaw meowed, shaking her head. Whatever happened with the badger, it wasnβt the first time, or likely the last.
Darkfrost shrugged and limped back to camp, the medicine cat apprentice close by his weaker side in case he stumbled.
As the two cats padded silently back to camp, Redpawβs mind was racing. I donβt know whatβs wrong with meβ¦ Butβ¦ I wonβt be alone. She glanced at Darkfrost for a heartbeat, before shifting her gaze back to her paws.
Chapter Six
βWe practice with claws unsheathed,β Birchstar hissed, shoving his muzzle in an apprentices face. She glared back with hatred seething behind her brilliant blue gaze. He was standing on top of Larkpaw, who was stuck on her back. They had spent the morning battle training and Birchstar had insisted on using claws to simulate a real battle, hoping that it would improve the sense of urgency and desperate need to improve.
The white tabby apprentice refused to use her claws when attack a friend, but certainly had no problem having a valid excuse to tear at the other SoulClan warriors. Larkpaw shoved Birchstar off of her, surprising him with her brute strength. The sandy tabby tom growled and backed off, sulking away farther off into the Twolegplace. Larkpaw smiled to herself, always taking pleasure in angering Birchstar.
βItβs probably not a good thing to be on his bad side.β Ripplestreak padded over to her. They had been dueling partners when Birchstar intervened and tried to bully Larkpaw into attacking her friend with her claws.
βToo late now.β Larkpaw replied back with a thin sigh,βHe is well aware of how much I despise him.β She whisked her tail angrily. It had been several moons since she had last been an IceClan cat. By normal Clan standards, she would have been a warrior, but Birchstar had a vendetta against the white tabby and always found an excuse to force her to remain an apprentice. Shaking her head, Larkpaw declared,βIβm going hunting.β
βIβll come with you.β A husky voice meowed from behind. She turned, surprised to see that it was Whisperheart that had offered to hunt with her. He had been observing the battle practice, more out of personal curiosity on how Clan cats fought.
She could have sworn to StarClan that she saw eagerness flash in his eyes, as well as something else, but she just ignored it and nodded. Larkpaw trotted off into the forest, Whisperheart following closely. She glanced back at Ripplestreak, curious as to why he seemed slightly amused.
The two cats just walked in silence for awhile, keeping their eyes and ears alert to any sight of prey. Accidentally, they had chosen the part of the forest where Twolegs often roamed, so few prey remained in the area. Twoleg stench and trash made it hard to scent out any sort of prey.
Larkpaw froze suddenly. A soft chirping sounded from above. She glanced up, barely making out the pale blue feathers of a jay. Shuddering at the idea of climbing, she swallowed her fear and slithered up the tree silently. She could sense Whisperheart observing her quietly as she cautiously tested out the limb the bird was on. It initially made no sound, so she continued closing in on the jay.
Larkpaw, feeling confident in the branchβs sturdiness, leaped the rest of the distance towards the bird. As soon as she put all the pressure on her hind quarters and jumped, the branch snapped. The bird, alarmed, flew away ungracefully, making enough noise for a badger. Her stomach dropped as the branch snapped. She tumbled towards the ground, attempting to grasp on to one of the lower branches. Her claws grazed one of the branches, but not enough for her to snag on. Larkpaw shut her eyes tightly, waiting to hit the ground.
Thud! She landed on something big, bulky, and also rather fuzzy. Larkpaw couldnβt move for several heartbeats, her heart in her chest, pounding. It took several moments for her to gain back her breathe.
The white tabby apprentice struggled to her paws, shaking out her fur. She glanced down at to what had taken force of the fall. Larkpaw was genuinely surprised to see Whisperheart staggering to his paws, shaking off the leaves and dirt off of his thick ginger coat.
βAre you okay?β He asked after he seemed to shake off the effects of the fall. There was something in his gaze that reminded her of concern, but she wasnβt sure why.
βI guess.β Larkpaw muttered, stalking off into the undergrowth. She hated feeling that she now owed one of Birchstarβs cats, especially his son. Whisperheart had been one of the few kind SoulClan warriors, but she remained suspicious because he was, of course, the son of the cat she hated most.
βHey, wait!β He bounded after her, no longer caring if he disturbed any of the remaining prey.
She just ignored him and pressed on, focusing on finding prey. Birchstar would just love to point out that I canβt hunt. Larkpaw thought with distaste. She prefered more open land where she could just run, but SoulClanβs territory only consisted of the forest and some alleys in the Twolegplace.
βLarkpaw!β His voice turned sharp from panic. She turned around to tell him to back off, but was greeted to a huge, looming figure. It was an ugly thing, young Twoleg kit covered in colorful pelts reaching out for Whisperheart.
βGet away from him!β She snarled threateningly, fluffing out her fur. The kit just ignored her and proceeded to pick up the fluffy tom. Whisperheart was petrified and was unable to move, his eyes wide with fear.
Panic and dread filled her limbs as the kit wobbled away clumsily, shouting something. Larkpaw locked eyes with Whisperheart, guilt seeping through pelt. His seemed to lose hope as he watched her, unable to move before finally closing his eyes, as if giving up.
Something stirred within her, something she couldnβt place. Drawing on every drop of courage she had, she took a deep breathe and released an angry yowl. This got the attention of the Twoleg kit, for it turned around, only to see the white tabby charging her. Her claws were extended as she lashed at its legs. Her claws scraped against the skin, just enough to startle the young Twoleg. It yowled in pain, dropping Whisperheart.
He hit the ground running, taking off towards a bramble bush. Larkpaw followed closely, slipping in after him. She hissed as thorns dug into her fur as she pressed on. There was a small gap in the middle, just enough for one cat, maybe two. Whisperheart turned sharply, pushing himself into the bramble barrier to make room for Larkpaw. Both cats crouch in silence, their flanks heaving as they gasped for air. She could see the kits shadow through the brambles as it search desperately for the cats. It felt like ages as it circled the bramble bush until a faint voice called. It sighed heavily and trudged off, leaving the two cats alone.
βWeβre even now.β Larkpaw meowed, her voice flat. Her heart was still pounding, but she wasnβt sure why. The Twolegs were gone, she was safe, stuffed in the brambles. She struggled to get to the hole they had made getting in, especially considering she was practically on top of Whisperheart. He grunted as she churned her paws against his stomach as she managed to wiggle through the brambles.
It took Whisperheat even longer to get out, considering he was much bigger and had thicker fur than she did. The white tabby began to sulk towards camp, too tired to care that she hadnβt caught anything.
βWait up!β He called after shaking free all the brambles possible. The thick furred ginger tom bounded passed Larkpaw, blocking her path.
She snorted, her eyes narrowed in annoyance. Larkpaw tried to push past him, but he just stepped in front of her again.
βEnough of this!β Whisperheart sighed, lashing his feathery tail,βYou avoid me all the time. I understand the other SoulClan warriors, but I havenβt done anything wrong.β She was surprised by the confrontation, but more by the hurt that lurked in his eyes. βI am truly sorry for what my father has done. I am. Please, do not judge me by my father's actions, but my own.β
Larkpaw stood there, shocked. She was unsure of why he cared so much of her opinion of him. Her skepticism must have shown in her eyes because Whisperheart took a step forward, standing closely in front of her.
Utterly confused by what he was trying to say and the strange emotions swirling within her heart, Larkpaw slipped by him, speeding off towards camp. She could feel his gaze watching her as she disappeared into the brush.
Chapter Seven
βToday is a tremendous day!β Birchstar yowled from the top of the Twoleg nest,βToday is the day when I welcome several new warriors!β He gazed around the group of cats, which had doubled in size over the past few moons.
Larkpaw gazed up at the leader, heavy resentment resting in her heart. Eaglepaw stood next to her, now past her shoulders in height. Ripplestreak was licking mysterious wounds behind her, Breezebeck lying next to him. βFirst, I must accept Breezebeck and Ripplestreak as full warriors of SoulClan.β Birchstar paused for a moment as some cats cheered,βBut we are all gathered for the making of two fantastic warriors. Eaglepaw, do you promise to uphold the warrior code and protect your clan at all costs?β
βI do.β He meowed, lifting his head proudly.
βI name you Eaglethorn, we honor your courage and smarts.β The Clan cheered for the new warrior, but Birchstar calmed them down with a flick of his tail.
βLast but not least, is our most unexpected warrior. Larkpaw has surprised us all by her skill and speed, as well as her loyalty. Whisperheart did a fantastic job training you.β There was something in Birchstarβs voice that almost resembled a threat,βDo you promise to uphold the warrior code and protect your clan at all costs?β
βI do.β She meowed, hoping that she sounded enthusiastic.
He nodded approvingly,βI name you Larkfeather. SoulClan honors your speed and loyalty.β The clan chanted their names again, but Birchstar quieted them down again,βWith these two new warriors, SoulClan grows stronger. I must also name three new apprentices!β
βFirekit, Foxkit, Snowkit,β He called the three young kits. They werenβt yet 6 moons old, but that didnβt matter for Birchstar. βDo you all promise to uphold the warrior code and promise to train your hardest?β The sandy tom meowed.
βI do,β They all replied at once, eyes shining brightly.
Birchstar replied,βSoulClan welcomes you all. Ripplestreak will mentor Foxpaw. Teach him your restraint and tactics.β
Larkfeather glanced at Leafsky, who seemed satisfied with the choice. βLark feather, while you may be a fresh warrior, has proven herself enough to train Snowpaw. I hope you pass on your hunting skills and loyalty.β It was obvious that she was surprised by already getting an apprentice so soon, as her eyes were wide with shock.
βLastly, I name Whisperheart as Firepawβs mentor. I trust you will pass on your strength and stealth.β The three mentors got to their paws and padded over to their apprentices, touching noses with them. It didnβt surprise anyone, Whisperheart is Birchstarsβ only kin in the clan, being his only surviving son.
Birchstar often watched her from afar through narrowed eyes, distrust and uncertainty flickering behind his eyes. The Clan was growing, rising in members quickly. How Birchstar led the βClanβ by ignoring the warrior code completely, attracted rogues. Even some of the stolen warriors even preferred SoulClan then their own.
Her dreams were frequently haunted by two eerily familiar cats whom names she couldnβt quiet place. They seemed so happy, so innocent, but something that she just couldnβt place was off. Sheβd just awoken from a horrid nightmare, where the white tabby she-cat was slaughtered by Birchstar, looming over the queen, blood matting his far as she attempted to protect her newborn kits. Ripplestreak was standing over her as Larkfeather, about to waken the exhausted warrior. Concern pooled in his eyes, but he just flicked his tail to the entrance wordlessly. She slipped out of the warriors den, easily locating Whisperheart. Ripplestreak had disappeared, likely off to find Riverstripe.
βMy warriors, my cats, gather beneath me, for I have news to share!β Birchstar called from his wooden overhang.
Within several moments, the Clan had gathered beneath him. Leafsky sat at the entrance of the nursery, Eagletalon sitting next to her. Ripplestreak and Riverstripe laid close together, with Larkfeather and Whisperheart sat near the warriors den. The apprentices had been tussling by their den paused, attention turning to Birchstar.
βIn four days we will launch a raid on IceClan. The following will remain in camp, Leafsky, Pebblefern, Brindlestep, Orchidwhisker,β All of the named cats nodded, with Leafsky looking more relieved than the others,βEveryone else will fight. No holding back, go for the kill.β His gaze rested on Larkfeather. She met his gaze, eyes bright and head lifted proudly. Birchstar, with his eyes still on the white tabby, continued,βWe aim to recruit two new members, what they rank does not matter. Recruiters will be rewarded,β he paused for a moment, lifting his gaze from Larkfeather as he proudly looked over his clan,βWe are growing. We are strong. We will, when this raid is successful, announce ourselves as a Clan at the next Gathering.β The cats of SoulClan cheered, but Birchstar quieted them with a tipping of his head,βPebblefern and Jayfoot have had three kits, Cinderkit, Willowkit, and Stonekit. With these additions, full of life and Clanblood, we are truly a Clan!β
Birchstar dismissed the clan with a flick of his tail, disappearing into the nest. As Whisperheart began to sort out patrols, the warriors and apprentices excitedly discussed the upcoming raid. βIβm going to show Foxpaw the desired IceClan and FireClan boundaries, want to join me?β Whisperheart trotted over to Ripplestreak and Larkfeather after sorting out patrols.
βNo.β Ripplestreak replied flatly, padding out of camp with Foxpaw at his side Firepaw trotted next to him, full of energy.
Whisperheart let out a thin sigh,βThereβs no hope with that one.β The two toms never had gotten along, getting into arguments more often than not.
βCome on then, itβll be me and you,β Larkfeather nudged him gently. Whatβs up with him? She wondered as Whisperheart just trudged forwards out of camp, slipping through the gap in the fence.
The only response he gave was an ear flick before exiting camp, Firepaw following closely. Larkfeather shook her head at the stubborn tom but followed him anyways. βKeep your eyes and ears open for anything suspicious.β She meowed to her apprentice.
Snowpaw nodded, sticking close to Larkfeather. The young cat was always careful and alert, complete opposite of her reckless brother. The two she-cats caught up to Whisperheart, Larkfeather walking close to him.
βIs there something wrong?β She murmured quietly. It wasnβt like him to be so quiet, there had to be something troubling him.
Whisperheart hesitated for a moment before replying with a brisk, βNo.β
Larkfeather narrowed her eyes,βI know when youβre lying.β Her voice was quiet, so that the conversing apprentices couldnβt hear. She rested her tail over his for a heartbeat, surpriseas he flinched at her touch.
He let out a thin sigh,βHe told me to choose.β Whisperheart lifted his head, keeping his eyes ahead of him.
βChoose between what?β She asked gently, knowing that something relatively important was troubling him.
βHe doesnβt believe you are truly loyal to SoulClan,β The ginger tom murmured,βIf I want to stay deputy, then I have to push you away.β
Larkfeatherβs heart skipped a beat,βThere has to be a way to prove him wrongβ¦β She didnβt want to end her friendship with Whisperheart, there had to be some way for her to prove she was loyal to SoulClan. Despite Birchstarβs concern being completely justified, neither him nor his son were aware of the growing rebellion right beneath their noses.
βIn the upcoming raid maybeβ¦β He trailed off into thought. Whisperheart paused for a moment, βMaybe if you kill someone worthy of attention, someone of title.β
Panic overran Larkfeather, killing wasnβt something she intended to do in any raidsβ¦ But if it was to protect her and cover up any thoughts of disloyalty, she had to. βIβm in. Let me lead a group, and Iβll kill the deputy,β She practically begged. Larkfeather wasnβt a killer, she wasnβt even sure she would be able to go through with killing the deputy, but she had to try.
***If you do not like LGBTQ+ characters, I don't care. Personally, I viewed Phoenix and Renegade as being previously together, and Korra and Shado currently in a relationship.***
Prologue
βOh, Gorsewhisker, you can see everything from up here!β She murmured softly, her eyes shifting from dark night sky to the tabby next to her. She leaned against the tom, soaking in his warmth and reassuring scent.
βYes, my dear, you can.β he murmured softly into her ear,βOne day weβll be sitting here as our kits play at our paws.β He rubbed his nose against his cheek, a purr echoing from his throat.
She pulled away from him, her crystal gaze now clouded with doubt. Her head angled at the sky again, her eyes shut,βYouβre all I have, you know that right? After Sootfire diedβ¦β Windecho trailed off, struggling to continue after the mention of her brothers death.
βThen we will run away!β Gorsewhisker proclaimed, thrusting his muzzle to the sky, βThere isnβt anything here for me either,β his tone softened,βWe could leave and never look back. The Clans havenβt done anything but take away the ones we love.β A brisk wind breezed around the two cats, making the thin pines behind clatter ominously.
βWhat about your clan? They need you now more than ever after the battle with EarthClan.β She leaned against him, aware of the scars that he now bore because of the battle three nights prior. Her heart was in her throat, he was everything to her, and the idea of never seeing him again made her feel sick with loneliness,βYou also have Tigertail.β
βHa!β He snorted at the mention of his arrogant, battle crazed brother,βHe has been different since I was made deputy.β Gorsewhisker shook his head,βWindecho, youβre all I need.β
βYou know how much I love you, right?β She murmured, giving his scruffy cheek a reassuring lick,βAre you sure you want to leave?β
βOf course!β His heart leaped,βWe will leave after the Gathering in half a moons time.β Fear pricked his pelt, the tip of his fur stood on end out of fear and concern if they were caught.
βRight,β she nodded,βI canβt wait.β Windecho purred as she got to her paws. She began to trot away towards the hillside when she stopped abruptly. Her white tabby fur was on end, a growl rose in her throat as her ears slid back.
Gorsewhisker got to his paws and stalked over to her, his claws unsheathing. His eyes narrowed when he finally caught wind of the stench that had surprised Windecho.
βYouβre such a disappointment, you know that?β A sneer came from the shadows as a red tabby tom stepped out into the moonlight.
βTigertail!β He hissed, digging his claws into the soft grass underneath his paws,βWere you spying us?!β Rage flickered in the tabby tomβs dark oak eyes.
βItβs a good thing I was,β Tigertail circled the two cats, his claws shimmering in the moonlight,βYouβve broken the warrior code, Shellstar wonβt be too happy about that, now will he?β
Gorsewhisker flinched at the mention of IceClans leader, holding his tongue at the snide comment that popped into his head, instead he just glared at his brother. Windecho stood close to him, her head held high to hide her fear.
βUnless you give up being deputy, every cat will know of this whole affair.β Tigertail threatened with a glint of hunger for power in his vivid amber eyes. His long stripped tail curled under Windechos chest as he passed infront of her,βDonβt get me wrong, I see the attraction. She is a pretty little thing.β
A low growl originated in the back of her throat as her eyes narrowed, becoming angered blue water with a thin black slit. Her claws unsheathed right before she tackled Tigertail to the ground. Windecho held her right paw to his throat, claws extended,βIf you tell anycat, donβt think I wonβt kill you.β Both Gorsewhisker and Windecho knew that she didnβt have the heart to kill anycat, the threat was hopefully enough for Tigertail to leave them alone.
βDo you honestly think that little threat scares me?β He questioned, meeting her angered blue gaze with his own. His body relaxed, giving Windecho a false sense of secuity and let her guard down enough for Tigertail to shove his hind legs into her belly, flinging her several tail-lengths away.
Gorsewhisker reacted, launching himself into Tigertail before he got to Windecho. He dug his claws into the red tabby tom and started to tear into him. His brother fought back just as violently, trying to give Gorsewhisker a crippling wound to his belly. The two toms tussled for several heartbeats, mercilessly clawing at eachother. Several moons of pent-up anger was finally coming out, and certainly not in a peaceful manner.
Gorsewhisker, with all the strength he could muster, shoved Tigertail off of him, sending him smack into a stone with a sickening thud. Guilt surged through Gorsewhisker immediately as he sped over to his brother, realizing with a sinking heart that he was dead.
βWhat did I do?β He murmured, his voice broken with discorded grief,βWe never got along, but I didnβt want him dead.β Gorsewhisker gazed at Tigertailβs body as blood began to pool around him.
βDo you still want to leave?β Windecho whispered quietly in his ear as she stood closely to him, resting her tail on his shoulder reassuringly.
βOf course, I have no choice now, the plans are still the same though, I need to get his body back and at least help with the rebuilding of IceClanβs camp.β He responded,βGo, go home, clean yourself off first of course.β Gorsewhisker gave her a quick lick on the cheek before he grasped Tigertailβs scruff gently.
He said nothing he watched Windecho through sorrowful eyes as she trotted away towards FireClanβs borders. Concern and worry made his limbs feel heavy, unable to move for a few heartbeats. I just have to get through a couple of days, than we will be together.
βThe heart is not always the most trustworthy to listen to,β An ominous but eerily familiar voice whispered in his ear. Panic arose through Gorsewhisker, resulting in him releasing Tigertailβs scruff. His body hit the ground with a soft thump. He whirled around, only to meet muzzle to muzzle with a black and white tom.
βS-Shellstar?β He stuttered, remorse and shock spread throughout him immediately. The warrior was beginning to question how the injured and old leader had gotten there considering he was wounded fairly badly, until it hit him. Shellstar must have succumbed to his wounds, and his last live must be up.
βGorsewhisker, it is your time...You have no other option. Iceclan needs you.β He murmured, resting his tail on Gorsewhiskerβs shoulder. Instead of feeling the comforting tail of his fallen leader, there was nothing, only a strange cold that sent a shiver down the tabbyβs spine. What about our plans? What about me murdering my brother?
βEven with all Iβve done?β Gorsewhisker shook his head, unable to accept that he would have to lead IceClan, given that he broke the warrior code and killed his brother. His heart sank as he realized that he would never be able to be with Windecho, that he had lost his only chance to be happy.
βTigertailβ¦β Shellstar trailed off for a few moments, unsure of what to say,βThat was an accident, he is was at just at as much fault as you are.β The starry tom lifted his head to look Gorsewhisker dead in the eye,βBut this thing with Windecho, it has to end, you know that right?β
βI know,β the tabby tom sighed, sorrow and lonliness flowed throughout him. He truly lost everything, his mentor, brother, and mate. There was nothing for him but the duty to serve his Clan and be the best possible leader he could be.
Shellstar nodded, his head tossed to the sky as an owl screeched overhead. βStarClan calls.β His black and white fur began to fade as he slowly rose into the air where he disappeared within a few heartbeats.
As soon as Shellstar disappeared, Gorsewhisker trudged back to camp, dragging Tigertail along side. Wind rushed through the thick trees, causing them to creepily rattle together. Straining his ears, he could barely hear a rough whisper,βThree become four, led by one who is alone in their own right, brightened by a resurrected fire, comforted by a constant ripple.
Chapter One
βGood catch Larkpaw!β A sandy tabby meowed as she observed a young she-cat through the thick foliage. Embarrassment flooded the apprentice as she tripped over the rabbit as she dragged it over to her mentor.
Hawkfireβs eyes shone proudly at her apprentice, although Larkpawβs brother, Darkpaw, eyes were dark with annoyance as he had only caught a scrawny robin. He was always competitive and could easily beat her in battle practice, but not even he could compete with her speed.
βSince this is just the dawn patrol, you two can share it,β she meowed,βBut unless a warrior says to, never hunt on border patrols without permission.β Hawkfire reminded them, not for the first time.
Darkpaw just let out an obnoxious snort before beginning to devour the rabbit. Larkpaw bent beside her darker brother and inhaled the warm flesh.
Hawkfire hung back, waiting patiently for the apprentices to finish eating. The white she-cat leaned back, sitting on her hunches, Hawkfire sprang to her paws,βNow keep up!β
No fair! She thought to herself, taking off after her mentor. Darkpaw reacted moments later, speeding after Larkpaw and Hawkfire. The two apprentices were neck and neck, racing after the warrior, quickly catching up to her.
Overtaking Darkpaw was simple enough as Larkpaw lengthened her stride, propelling her lithe, scrawny body forwards with ease. She refused to give up as the energy began to drain from her limbs, but Larkpaw pushed on as she reached Hawkfire. The apprentice reached for the ground, claws extended, pushing herself forwards, launching herself ahead of the sandy she-cat.
βLarkp-β She heard Hawkfire warn, but it was too late, Larkpaw had realized what her mentor had done when her paws no longer touched ground. The apprentice stumbled down a short bank, flopping ungracefully down into a calm stream.
Larkpaw growled to herself, standing up in the shallow creek. βYou tricked me!β She climbed her way up the bank, fur completely soaked. The white tabby stopped for a few heartbeats and gave herself a violent shake, sending water droplets spraying over Darkpaw and Hawkfire.
βNo, I taught you a lesson. Control your strengths,β Hawkfire flicked her tail,βI am well aware of your speed, Larkpaw. I ran as hard as I could just to be a challenge.β Her sides heaved, hinting that she had strained herself testing Larkpaw.
βI canβt wait for the day where I can be free of your lessons,β Larkpaw mumbled as a shiver shook through her because of her soaked fur.
βThatβll be sooner than you think.β Hawkfire meowed, winking at Larkpaw. She pushed through the newly sprouted ferns, heading towards the FireClan border.
The two apprentices glanced at eachother, excitement sparked in their eyes. They started to follow Hawkfire, discussing their possible warrior names with delight and curiosity.
The small dawn patrol hadnβt gotten far when a dappled she-cat bounded towards them, βGorsestar is calling a meeting,β she meowed,βYour dawn patrol is the only patrol out, he wanted to wait.β Amusement sparked in the warrior's eyes when examining Larkpaw, although she didnβt question as to why the apprentice was damp.
βThank you Leopardflash,β Hawkfire meowed,βLet us head back now.β The sandy she-cat got to her paws, trotting on towards camp, with Darkpaw, Larkpaw, and Leopardflash following closely.
Between eating the rabbit, the morning run and her trip to the stream, Larkpaw felt queasy by the time they got back to camp. She trotted over to the medicine cat den, which was a dead, hollowed out tree.
Two she-cats were resting outside, sharing a mouse and chatting. The elder she-cat was a gray tortoiseshell, the other a red tabby. βLarkpaw,β The younger of the two meowed, dipping her head in acknowledgement. Her mentor, Willowcreek, got to her paws and trotted onwards towards Gorsestarβs ledge, knowing that the meeting was to start. A huge and realitvely young tom, at least for leader, stood on an outcropping ledge, his face grim. His head was held high, his dark eyes judging and blank. Thinking about it, she couldnβt recall a time where Gorsestar was actually happy. This instance was no expection either. There was something in his face that was particularly sorrowful that she wasnβt sure of its cause.
βWhat happened?β She whispered to her friend, who just shook her head in response. Redpaw made no attempt to hide the grief swimming in her eyes, leading Larkpaw to a mournful conclusion.
βAll cats able to catch prey gather below the Rock Pillar!β Gorsestar yowled. He waited a moment as cats of all color and shape revealed themselves from the several dens within the camp.
βI have terrible news,β Gorsestar stopped for a second, taking in his surroundings as the gray tortoiseshell stood next to him,βSharpfang has died.β
A shocked gasp echoed throughout the clan, but quieted rather quickly with a wave of the leaderβs tail. βHe died honorably, chasing out a couple of rogues. He saved the life of Silverpaw, but didnβt have enough strength left in him to fight against the brutal wounds.β Gorsestar lowered his head, calling for a moment of silence to honor the senior warrior.
βNoβ¦ it canβt beβ¦β A young black and white tom broke the silence, his voice shrill with pain. Redpaw left Larkpawβs side to nudge the apprentice, Drizzlepaw, to the medicine den.
βWho's the next deputy?β A scrawny tabby tom questioned with narcissistic authority. His comment was echoed by fellow warriors curious in who would take Sharpfangβs place as deputy.
βSilence!β Gorsestar snarled, narrowing his eyes to the creamy tom,βDo you dare disrespect Sharpfang by assuming you get the place Spidernose?β Gorsestar had been Sharpfangβs first apprentice after he joined IceClan, the first one to trust a former rogue, so naturally they grew close.
Spidernose shrank back, trying to escape the leaders rage. βThatβs what I thought,β Gorsestar growled,βMany of you may not know this, but he was planning on retiring in a couple of moons. We discussed this choice together, and together had decided on Talonshadow.β Surprised murmurs responded, but no one challenged Gorsestar this time. Talonshadow, while crippled with a weak shoulder, was certainly a good choice.
Larkpaw glanced over at her brother, whose coal brown eyes brightened with pride for his mentor. Beyond him, a couple of warriors muttered, their voices thick with uncertainty. Spidernose, as well as a she-cat similar in appearance had their backs turned, evidently not agreeing to this choice.
The clan dispersed and most of the warriors gathered around Talonshadow to both congratulate him and to recieve orders. The queens returned to their den, while the apprentices gathered excitedly.
βPoor Drizzlepawβ¦β A tortoiseshell she-cat murmured as Larkpaw joined the group,βI hope heβs going to be okayβ¦β
βIβm sure he will be, Flypaw.β Darkpaw meowed, still glowing with pride after his mentor being announced as deputy.
βHe lost his father! You wouldnβt know what thatβs like, now would you? Tame-bloods!β Flypaw snapped in response, her tortoiseshell tail lashing angrily.
Both Larkpaw and her brother flinched, Flypaw had brought up a valid point. Tame-bloods often referred to the kits of rogues and kittypets, and always used as an insult. She never knew her parents, just that Gorsestar had brought her and Darkpaw to the clan with no answers at only a few days old. Many cats speculated their origin, but leader denied everything, refusing to just leave two kits on their own.
Darkpaw jumped to his paws, eyes narrowed,βYou wanna find out how much clanblood I have in me? Fight me mouse-heart!β His claws unsheathed and he prepared to attack the snappy tortoiseshell. Larkpaw quickly stepped in front of her brother, knowing all too well he had no problem attacking Flypaw.
βDarkpaw! Quit it!β A growl silenced the group of apprentices as Talonshadow padded over,βIs that how a warrior should act, threatening a Clanmate? Or the deputyβs apprentice?β
βIβm sorry Talonshadowβ¦β He muttered, ears flat against his skull. Darkpaw shrank back to try and avoid his mentors rage.
βIf you keep acting like this, Larkpaw will be a warrior before you,β The marble tabby tom teased with a lighter tone,βJust go hunting with Leopardflash and Redpaw.β
βIsnβt Redpaw a medicine cat?β Darkpaw pointed out enthusiastically, keen to show
off his skills to anyone and everyone.
βAll cats can hunt, and it canβt hurt to have an extra paw. She isnβt needed right now,β Talonshadow meowed patiently,βNow, Larkpaw. Youβre going fishing with Lightfeather. She needs a distractionβ¦β He trailed off, his point made clear. Lightfeather was already an introverted cat, but it certainly didnβt help that her mate died.
Larkpaw nodded, leaving Darkpaw to mutter angrily to himself. She searched the camp for the gray tabby she-cat, whom had just emerged from the medicine cat den.
She trotted over to Lightfeather,βTalonshadow suggested for us to go fishing.β Larkpaw meowed softly, βAre you up for it?β
βOf course,β Lightfeather lifted her striped head, although her voice was thick with grief. She headed towards the camp entrance, despite her head being held high, her tail drug in the grass.
While it was true Larkpaw hadnβt lost anyone close to her, she could still feel sympathy even if it wasnβt to the same degree as those suffering. Larkpaw and never known her parents, no cat really raised her and Darkpaw. She fell into step behind Lightfeather, knowing that idle chit-chat wouldnβt help her in anyway. Despite that conclusion, Larkpaw still tried to offer a distraction,βWhereβs the best place to fish?β
Lightfeather hesitated, as if considering carefully how to answer her question. βJust like you donβt hunt in one area too long, you canβt fish in mainly one area.β Her clouded green gaze kept focused ahead as she picked her way cautiously through some loose thorn strands. βButβ¦β She briefly went solemn,βMy favorite area is Deer River.β The river that Lightfeather spoke of was the border separating Iceclan and Fireclan.
βOh okay,β Larkpaw meowed, easily keeping pace with Lightfeather. She slowed for a brief second, a faint but foreign scent swirling around them, but the warrior didnβt react or even seem to notice. Larkpaw, now on alert, walked close behind the gray tabby in silence.
βHere we are!β The gray tabby proclaimed, showing too much enthusiasm for simply fishing. They cautiously picked their way down to the bank,βLucky for us, we havenβt had heavy rain lately, so thereβs likely to be plentiful of fish.β
Larkpaw nodded, but her thoughts were still focused on the strange scent. The gray tabby she-cat crouched over the water, putting her weight on her hindquarters. The apprentice stood several paw-steps away, watching Lightfeather demonstrate how to fish,βMake sure youβre shadow doesnβt reflect over the water, that tells the fish youβre thereβ¦β She murmured distractedly, her gaze staring intently on the water.
Without warning, she jerked her paw into the water, revealing a slimy fish hooked in her claws, βBite the neck!β She requested, tossing the fish next to Larkpaw.
The apprentice, hesitating for a moment, bent down and bit hard on the fishβs neck. βItβs soβ¦ slimy.β She complained, spitting out some of the gunk from the prey. Fish was uncommon prey, as few cats were comfortable in the water, and it was difficult enough tofind a decent and safe spot to fish.
βIt is, but prey is prey.β Lightfeather meowed, her gaze still intent on the water,βBesides, some cats do enjoy fish.β She waded a couple of mouse lengths in, unbothered by the chilled water.
Larkpaw reluctantly waded into the low river to crouch next to Lightfeather,βHow many warriors actually know how to do this?β She positioned herself in mimic of the gray tabby, putting her weight heavily on hunches. The cold water felt cool against her fur, relaxing the apprentice as she shifted her position slightly to get comfortable.
βFew,β Lightfeather got to her paws, examining Larkpawβs stance. She nosed the apprentice forwards slightly,βMe, Drizzlepawβ¦β She hesitated, jaws open. Lightfeather shook her head, continuing,βGorsestar, Stormytooth.β The silver gray she-cat padded to where Larkpaw was to finish off the fish.
βOh,β Larkpaw murmured, her gaze intent on the water. She attempted to lash out at one of the silver flashes, but missed. The apprentice let out a hiss before repositioning herself to strike again.
βFishing requires much patience,β Lightfeather meowed quietly.
βThat explains why no one fishes,β She growled, flicking her tail impatiently. Larkpaw narrowed her eyes, quickly extending her unsheathed paw into the water. Surprise flashed through her as she realized that something cold, slimy was hooked onto her claws. She jerked her paw out of the water, caught in the grasp of her claw was a decent sized fish.
βQuick! Toss it towards me!β Lightfeather said,βBefore it wiggles away!β The apprentice shook her paw to free herself of the fish towards the warrior, who snatched it in the air before it hit the ground.
βGreat job!β The warrior meowed after setting the limb body on the other two fish,βWeβll fish until sun-down.β
Time flew by quickly, resulting in Larkpaw getting fairly wet again. As Lightfeather and Larkpaw began to collect their prey, a shout came from the top of the opposite bank,βAre those IceClan cats or fish?β The teasing came from an obviously arrogant tabby tom. Behind him stood a young brown and white tabby tom, and two ginger apprentices.
βOh shut it Breezebeck!β Lightfeather growled, whisking her tail as she turned to return his glare.
βLike weβre scared of two fish!β he retorted,βRipplestreak and I can easily take you!β Breezebeck hadnβt included the ginger she-cats, they seemed rather young to be jumping into a battle. Ripplestreak, the other tabby tom just stood there quietly and calmly, murmuring something in Breezebeckβs ear.
Breezebeck responded with a thick sigh in response to whatever the other FireClan warrior had said before turning away without another word, a scowl heavy in his face.
βJust like Breezebeck, to throw around threats and to be calmed down by a new warrior!β Lightfeather muttered, loud enough for all the cats to hear. The tabby tom flinched, but Ripplestreak just nudged him on, away from the border.
βRipplestreak seems a little young for a warrior,β Larkpaw commented, gathering up some of the fish.
Lightfeather shrugged,βI think they found him wandering the territory at a couple moons old, no cat actually knows his actual age.β She gathered up the remainder of the fish, leading the way back to camp.
Chapter Two
Over the next couple of sunrises, the Clan was busy with spring, bringing prey out of their dens. Plentiful of prey wasnβt the only thing happening, several cats had gotten close over the course of the harsh winter. Snowflare had gotten rather close Pinefoot, Larkpaw even heard whispers of kits in the future. Sunstrike and Brightstorm had already announced that they were expecting of kits.
Larkpaw slipped out from the apprentices den, a huge trunk of a dead oak when she caught wind of foreign scent. Her haunches bristled cautiously as her eyes flickered around the camp, looking for anything out of the ordinary. A few heartbeats later, the brambles that acted as a buffer from an outside world, rustled. Instead of a predator, three cats padded into the clearing, none of which she had never seen led by Petalstep.
She watched curiously from the entrance of the rotten log, her claws kneading into the ground, impatiently waiting for the reason for the arrival of the strangers. Petalstep led them up the rock cropping to Gorsestarβs den.
βWhy is Thornstar here?β Hawkfire meowed as she trotted over to Larkpaw. The light brown she-cat glanced up at the Rock Ledge, concern clouding her eyes.
βThornstar?β She had heard of the EarthClan leader, he was often praised for his intelligence and compassion, but had never seen him herself.
Her mentor opened her jaws slightly to taste the air briefly,βHeβs the tuxedo tom, and its smells like he brought Crowheart and Thrushclaw.β She must have seen the confusion in Larkpawβs eyes, for she continued with,βCrowheart is the pale gray she-cat and is also the deputy. Thrushclaw is the black, white and ginger medicine cat.β
βOh,β Larkpaw replied, glancing up at the Rock Ledge. There was no sign of either leaders. βI have no idea, but we probably shouldnβt waste a perfectly good morning,β she meowed,βI want to know just as you, but still, there are cats to be fed.β
βLook at you, taking initiative!β Hawkfire purred, searching the camp for another cat to include in their morning activities. Her gaze settled on a scruffy russet tom,βBerryheart, are you up for some hunting?β She called to him, her tone perhaps a little too friendly.
βSure.β He replied, a joyous gleam in his eye as he got to his paws and padded over.
βWhere should we go?β Hawkfire questioned either cat,βI really donβt have a preference.β
βCould we go to Sunny Hill?β Larkpaw asked enthusiastically, her eyes a brilliant blue, brimming with excitement. Sunny Hill was a stretch of grassy plains that was home to rabbits, her personal choice of prey.
βSure.β Her mentor purred amusingly,βLead the way.β
Larkpaw blinked, surprised. Hawkfire had never given her the responsibility of leading a patrol before, even if it was just a hunting trip.
She glanced nervously at her mentor, who just nodded encouragingly towards the entrance. Larkpaw took a deep breathe and bounded out of the IceClan camp, Berryheart and Hawkfire following closely. She slowed to a lope as she maneuvered through the trees. It wasnβt long until the trees opened up, revealing a sprawling hillside, the grass an emerald green in the bright morning light.
The white tabby apprentice slowed to a halt, waiting for the two warriors to catch up. A few moments later, they caught up, stopping beside her. βSee any prey?β Berryheart questioned, his voice quiet to avoid disturbing any prey.
Larkpaw opened her jaws slightly, just enough to scent the wind for any prey. She caught wind of stale fox, likely several days old, but also rich with rabbit. βStrong scent of rabbit, old fox.β She reported, her gaze flicking across the hillside for any sign of rabbit.
βFox?β The pair glanced each other, a worry swimming in their eyes,
βOld, a couple days at least,β she meowed calmly, immediately dropping into a crouch when she spotted a rabbit nibbling some grass several fox-lengths away. The wind, luckily, was blowing towards them, hiding their scent.
βWeβll head around, you chase it towards me.β Hawkfire murmured and took off heading left as Berryheart went right around, heading towards the top of the hill.
Larkpaw waited a couple of heartbeats until they were in position until she leaped to her paws, gunning straight towards the rabbit. She dug her claws into the grass, getting a better grip, propelling herself forwards.
She was within a few tail lengths when the rabbit noticed and panicked, darting right up the hill towards Berryheart. Larkpaw slowed, watching as he took a few steps forwards as it got closer and suddenly burst into action, running after the rabbit with everything he had. Berryheart leaped when he got within distance, sinking his claws into bunny. It let out a screech of pain before collapsing. The russet tom killed it with a quick nip to the neck.
βNice catch,β Larkpaw meowed. They were soon joined by Hawkfire, who purred in agreement.
βYou could have caught it you know,β Berryheart pointed out,βYou certainly have the speed.β
βItβs fine,β Larkpaw shrugged,βLetβs keep hunting.β
The trio didnβt return to camp until the sun was near its peak. Larkpaw, after insisting to take a trip to Deer River, caught a couple of fish, Hawkfire had caught a couple of mice, and Berryheart had added a vole to his rabbit.
She was surprised to see that Thornstar was still in the IceClan camp. He was sitting next to Gorsestar as they shared tongues. They seemed so calm and such good friends it seemed that they had been raised together in the same Clan. Larkpaw glanced around the camp but found no sign of Thrushclaw or Crowheart. Instead of dropping off her prey at the prey pile, Larkpaw trotted over to the nursery.
βHello Larkpaw,β Lightfeather purred as she entered the den. The gray tabby she-cat had returned to the nursery for the time being, her excuse was to help her sister, Flightsong, with her two kits.
The apprentice dropped both fish at Lightfeatherβs paws,βI figured you would want something to eat.β Ever since Sharpfang had died, she became quiet and more reserved. Talonshadow had taken her off of patrols for a couple of days. Surprisingly, Drizzlepaw did the quite opposite. He worked harder than any other apprentice, likely to keep his mind off of his father's death.
βThank you.β She murmured. Lightfeather neatly tucked her paws beneath her and delicately ate one of the fish.
Satisfied that the grieving warrior was eating, she padded over to Flighsong. A small smile came upon her lips when she saw the small two kits tussling with each other. The larger, a gray tom with a white chest, was tussling with a smaller white she-cat. Their mother was looking rather stuffy, her gaze remained fixated on the den entrance.
βHey, I can watch them,β Larkpaw offered.βIf youβd like to go out and hunt.β Between her and Lightfeather, she was sure that they could keep Foxkit and Snowkit entertained for a little.
βYes please!β Flightsong meowed, her tone thick with gratefulness. She slipped out of the nursery and disappeared from sight quickly.
The two kits barreled into her,βGet out of our territory, you mangy rogue!β Larkpaw hit the ground with an exaggerated gasp. Snowkit, with her claws sheathed, started to tear at her fur as Foxkit was growling and jumping on her haunches.
She heard a snort of amusement from Lightfeather as she was bombarded with the two kits. Larkpaw struggled to her paws, lightly shaking the kits off. There was a brief flash of disappointment in their eyes that soon disappeared when she let out a playful hiss. Snowkit leaped onto her back, soon followed by Foxkit trying to throw off her balance by charging at her front leg.
Larkpaw continued to play with the kits until Flightsong returned. She was looking much happier, with a bright gleam in her eyes. The kits had grown tired by then, protesting weakly that they were not tired.
βCome now, little ones, eat, and then sleep.β She murmured, curling up in her nest. Flightsong nudged the kits to her belly, where they both started to suck hungrily for milk. βThank you.β The queen meowed quietly,βI needed that.β Flightsong needed all help that she could get since there was no father to help out. Larkpaw had never seen her mate, but it wasnβt required for queens to say who the father was, so every cat just assumed it was a rogue.
She left with a nod and maneuvered out of the den, wordless. Larkpaw stretched out her long limbs when she got outside. There wasnβt too much room in the nursery for much comfort and stretching.
Gorsestar had just appeared on the Rock Ledge, without Thornstar by his side. The EarthClan leader had left while she was watching the kits.
βMay all cats old enough to catch prey and sharpen their claws gather below the
Rock Ledge!β He yowled. Those who were in camp, which perhaps half of the clan was, gathered around, looking up at their leader, concern and curiosity deep in their eyes.
He waited a few moments until the cats had gathered,βThornstar brought news of a rogue attack several sunrises ago nn EarthClan in their camp,β gasps echoed throughout the clan. No cat had heard of a group of rogues openly attacking an entire clan before. βThey lost a warrior in the fight. Robin furβs death wasnβt an accident, but murder by a purposeful killing slash to the throat. Thornstar came to warn us, for the rogue group were trying to steal kits.β
Angry yowling, as well as upset mumbling erupted from the clan. To attack a clan was one thing, but to attempt to steal kits was unheard of, even from within the Clans. βWe must keep an eye out for any rogue cats or strange scents. Report immediately to me or Talonshadow.β As he nodded his head to dismiss them, Gorsestar added,βMake sure the others are aware.β
Chapter Three
βCome and get me!β A white tabby cat shouted over her shoulder, breezing past an oddly familiar dark tabby. The wind rippled around her, parting her fur to reveal lean, strong muscles pushing her forwards. He let out a laugh, taking off after the she-cat. No matter how hard he pushed himself, there was no catching up to her. Larkpaw took off after the two cats, easily advancing on the tom. Strangely, he made no reaction to her outpacing him.
βSlow down!β He panted, slowing down to a halt. His sides heaved, taking in their surroundings. They had passed clan boundaries, now in uncharted territory. Strange land stretched around them, outcrops of rocks and pine trees filled the landscape. The apprentice stood right in front of the she-cat, but the other white tabby darted right through her. Am I in StarClan? Who are these cats?
Her gaze shifted to the tom, standing nose to nose with him. There was something familiar, on the tip of her tongue, but she just couldnβt place it. His eyes were bright with joy, pure happiness, such of a degree that she had never seen before.
βToo fast for you?β She had turned back to meet up with the dark tabby. He turned to reply, but another voice interrupted.
βThis is not your place, not yet.β The voice said as cat padding out of the shadows. She could see the brush through him, and Larkpaw froze as she stared through the ghostly figure.
βW-Who are you? Where am I?β She demanded, meeting the cat eye to eye. Despite his transparency, she could see that it was a black and white tom.
βLittle one, do not be afraid,β He murmured, touching his nose to hers.
A cold chill spread throughout Larkpaw as their noses touched,βAm I dead?β She murmured, eyes wide. She hadnβt remembered being sick or attacked, just that after the fishing expedition she went to sleep.
He laughed, which scared the apprentice even more,βNo, you are not. StarClan is showing you something too early in my opinion, but do not forget this dream, young one. It will have importance.β The strange tom began to disintegrate as Larkpaw struggled to take everything in.
Her ears were flat, fur on end, as she thought of the worst possibilities for this strange dream. Are they of importance? What do two strangers have to do with me? With IceClan?
βDo not worry,β The raspy voice murmured in her ear,βWhile your future may not be easy, you have nothing to fear but yourself.β With those final words, the starry cat disappeared, leaving Larkpaw alone in the darkness of her dream.
Fear consumed Larkpaw as she considered his words. βWhat am I going to have to do?β She whispered to herself, her voice high and strained in terror for the future. The pale tabby apprentice begun to pace in the dream, unsure if she could or even wanted to wake up at this moment. Her mind whirled at the prospect of what sheβd have to do.
A shrill and panicked screech awoke Larkpaw with a start. The hillside had disappeared, along with any trace of the black and white tom or the other cats. She jumped to her paws, all concern for what the strange cat had said was evaporated. The apprentice scrambled out of the den, alert for any sort of threat.
Several other cats had awoken at the screech, emerging from their dens. Redpaw emerged from the medicine cat den, quickly making her away towards the nursery. The other warriors that had awaken crowded in front of the nursery, mutterings of alert and panic arose quietly.
LarkpawΕ jaw slid open to scent her surroundings. An odd, faintly familiar scent was leading a trail out of camp and farther into the forest. There was another scent, much more stronger, was of blood. She followed it to the entrance of camp, scared of what she might find.
A still, almost lifeless figure was sprawled out at the entrance of the bracken tumble. Larkpawβs heart sank when she realized, that through the blood, laid Lightfeather. βHelp! Willowcreek! Redpaw!β She yowled, frantically licking a terrible gash over her shoulder. Her breathing was extremely shallow, eyes shut tight.
βHold on Lightfeatherβ¦β She murmured,βDrizzlepaw needs you.β The apprentice gently licked the wounded warrior, unsure if sheβd survive. The attacker had sliced her from her shoulder down to her belly, and did a fair share to mutilate Lightfeatherβs face.
βLarkpaw!β Redpaw had run towards her after hearing her yowl, Darkpaw by her side. Both apprenticeβs eyes widened at the sight of Lightfeather,βDarkpaw, get Willowcreek and make sure Gorsestar is awake.β The apprentice paused, likely about to say something smart, but turned and darted off out of the tunnel.
She began examining Lightfeahter carefully, βWho, or what, did this?β Redpaw sniffed the shoulder wound,βThere was no mercyβ¦ Only to kill.β
βWill she live?β Larkpaw whispered, uncertain if she wanted to hear the answer.
Redpaw thought for a moment as she began to lick the wound,βI do not know. After what happened yesterday, she knows Drizzlepaw will need her more than ever. All we can hope is that the wound doesnβt get infectedβ¦β
Larkpaw nodded, resting her head on the ground next to Lightfeather. Willowcreek emerged from the camp, mouth crammed with leaves and one paw wrapped in cobwebs. βLarkpaw, you may go.β The medicine cat murmured in her ear,βTalonshadow needs your help.β
The apprentice nodded and quietly got to her paws. She padded towards camp with one last glance over her shoulder, desperately hoping that Lightfeather would be okay. Warriors were rushing to comfort their queens and mates, Larkpaw became aware that something else had happened. She lifted her head, seeing her brother run towards her. Gorsestar was behind him, but dispersed to talk to Talonshadow.
βWhat happened?β She asked when Darkpaw stopped next to her.
βSome rogues came in and stole Flightsongβs kits.β He meowed somberly,βLightfeather must have been guarding and whoever wanted them mauled herβ¦β
βThis is terribleβ¦ Lightfeather didnβt deserve this, whatever fox-hearted coward did this is going to get his eyes scratched out and be left for the crows.β Larkpaw growled, whisking her tail.
βCalm down Larkpaw,β Hawkfire had been conversing with Gorsestar and Talonshadow,βitβll be me and you searching down river, Darkpaw, you go back to sleep.β Darkpaw opened his mouth to protest, but he decided against it and padded away to the apprentice den.
Hawkfire lead the way out of camp, bounding out of the tunnel quickly. Larkpaw followed, her stomach clenching when they passed by Lightfeather and the medicine cats.
They had carefully tracked the strange scent to Deer River, where the scent split off into two separate groups,βWe mustn't waste time. We will split up, you head towards the Twolegplace, and Iβll check near the FireClan border.β
βAlright.β Larkpaw nodded to her mentor, taking off downstream.
She followed the scent closely, not even taking notice to her surroundings. The apprentice froze when the scent increased, now mingled in with several others. She was still in IceClan territory, but the Twolegplace was in sight. Rarely did a kittypet cross over the border, although loners and rogues werenβt uncommon.
Her hackles rose as she heard murmurs coming from the shadows. βShe could be of useβ¦β One of them hissed from above, likely lurking in the tree tops.
βShe couldβ¦ And she will.β Came a harsh whisper from the treetops. Three rogues leaped down from the surrounding trees, four more emerged from the shadows. Larkpaw gasped when she saw that two of the cats held two kits, from what she could tell, were Flightsongsβ kits.
βCome with us.β A sandy tom growled, flicking his tail. The group of cats gathered around the IceClan apprentice, their eyes narrowed.
βNo.β Larkpaw lifted her head,βI will not.β She crouched, ready to spring at whoever moved. The only cat who moved was the sandy tom, who turned quickly.
βYou will learn fast,β Before the apprentice could react, he launched himself at her, clawing her right flank,βTo not disobey.β
She stumbled forward, but caught herself. Blood trickled down from the claw marks that stretched from her right shoulder to hind leg. βNow we go.β He growled, pushing himself through the tight circle of cats. The group ushered her forwards towards the Twolegplace.
Larkpaw limped along, confusion and worry weighed her down. After the peculiar StarClan dream and Flightsongβs kits being taken, she was exhausted. What do they want? Why did they take the kits and me?
βWhisper, make sure she doesnβt fall behind.β The leader growled to the smaller ginger and white tom next to him. He nodded, falling into step with Larkpaw.
βI canβt run away, so why do you have to lurk besides me?β She growled, eyes narrowed as she glanced at her.
βDusty said to make sure you keep up, so I am.β Whisper kept his amber gaze on the path ahead.
Larkpaw let out a quiet snort, ears flat against her head. She said nothing to him throughout the rest of the walk to what would be a prison, her thoughts only went to one thing, Darkpaw. Heβd be alone now, and alone he would struggle greatly to become the phenomenal warrior she knew he could be.
They hadnβt been walking too long before they squeezed through a hole in one of the Twoleg fences. Whisper let her go in first, likely to make sure she didnβt turn and run.
Chapter Four
A large, abandoned Twoleg den rested in an overgrown yard. While there was a roof, it was flawed heavily with holes and planks of wood missing. The walls were cracked, the porch roof was in shambles. All the windows were sealed with wood planks and the cats used a rat-chewed hole at the bottom of the door. Whispers echoed throughout the garden, although she saw no cat.
The burly sand-ginger tom raised his tail for the patrol to stop,βJay, Ember, take the kits to the nursery.β Two cats broke off from the group, taking the mewling kits to a run-down shed.
The tom weaved his way through the undergrowth and slipped into the building. Several moments later, he appeared on a opening high up on the house. βCats of the Alley! Our time has come! We are to be an official Clan, with our new clanmates. Bring forth all the new members!β
Protesting growls came from the entrance of the Twoleg den as several other cats emerged. One of the rogues, a huge ginger tom, held a young apprentice by the scruff. Two warriors were shoved next to Larkpaw.
βNot a very impressive bunch,β Whisper muttered to himself, although he wasnβt the only cat thinking it. They had kidnapped two scrawny apprentices and a couple of ragtag warriors, none of the cats were impressive, frankly.
Surprise flashed through her as she noticed that the other warriors were Ripplestreak and Breezebeck, but she wasnβt sure who the apprentice was. βToday, I make us a clan! We shall be known as SoulClan, the fearless and stealthy!β He paused for a moment, gazing down at the small band of cats. βWe are joined by these four Clan cats, that will teach us their ways. I welcome Breezebeck and Ripplestreak as our first official warriors.β No cat made a congratulatory sound as the leader paused,βI welcome Larkpaw and Eaglepaw as apprentices under the newly formed SoulClan....β Larkpaw begun to drift off as Birchstar rambled on. Exhausted by the all of the drama and rogue attack, her eyelids were heavy and began to drupe.
She found herself leaning against a warm mass. The apprentice jerked awake, finding that the sandy tom was still talking. Larkpaw shifted her weight, sitting up again. She felt flush with embarrassment when she had realized that she had been leaning against Whisper.
The two cats met eyes for a brief moment before she forced her gaze away, shifting it to the leader. β-declare myself leader of SoulClan! I will travel to the Crystal Caves to request my nine lives tonight. From now on, I shall be known as Birchstar!β He paused for a moment, gazing down with a strange gleam in his eyes. βLast, but not certainly not least, I name Whisper as my deputy, with the new name of Whisperheart.β
And with that, the cats crowded around Whisperheart as Birchstar leaped down from the roof and disappeared quickly. He took control immediately,"I will learn what I can from our new members, but until then, Jayfoot take Thundersmoke and Flaretail hunting. Keep an eye out for boundaries. The rest of you, gather around. One of these cats will tell us about how Clans work." He flicked his tail and the cats followed his command. Three cats slipped out of the yard, and the rest gathered around the four Clan cats.
"Someone speak." Whisperheart growled, remaining fixated in his position next to Larkpaw. She couldnβt bring herself to move, she felt completely alone and scared, these strange cats terrified her. Larkpaw was uncertain of their intentions with her and the other Clan cats. She remained reserved, trying to become invisible by shrinking back, but was stopped by Whisperheart quietly resting his tail over hers, as if trying to reassure her.
Breezebeck, obviously arrogant and proud to be the elder warrior, began to eagerly describe Clanlife. Larkpaw glanced at Eaglepaw, the terrified apprentice that had crouched next to Ripplestreak. His eyes were wide, it was apparent that he was very scared. Ripplestreak had a calm and collected desposition, with his head held high, his body relaxed. His tail was curled around Eaglepaw perhaps as a sign that the apprentice wasnβt alone and would be protected.
Occasionally, Ripplestreak made a comment on what Breezebeck said, but neither apprentice said anything. It was mainly Whisperheart who questioned the cats, the others listened in silence. The three cats that had gone hunting returned, their jaws stuffed with prey. None of the Clan cats were given any prey, so they watched in annoyance and starvation as all other cats ate.
"Itβs getting late." Birchstar growled, leaping down from an overhanging tree. "We will start tomorrow. Tomorrow, Iβll appoint mentors. Cloudwhisker, youβll take the first shift guarding our new members. Tinyshell, you'll take over at moon-high." Night had approached rather quickly as the self-appointed leader dismissed the cats.
He began to trot away towards the Twoleg nest, but stopped for a moment to meow calmly,"If any of you leave, I will lead an attack on your clans and slaughter every cat. No mercy." Larkpaw glared at him, they eyes meeting for a brief moment. He narrowed his eyes for a heartbeat, his yellow eyes a violent pool, slit by his iris, as he briefly examined her before slipping into the Twoleg den.
"Follow me," Whisperheart meowed as the former rogues followed Birchstar,"You will stay in the nursery until further notice." They pushed through the undergrowth until they got to the small shed where Flightsongs' kits were being held. The new deputy left them at the entrance, disappearing in the direction of the nest.
"In, now." A gray and white tom, whom Larkpaw assumed was Cloudwhisker, hissed. Larkpaw followed Breezebeck in the shed, with Eaglepaw close behind her.
Breezebeck went over to the back right corner of the shed, where some grass had seeped through the floorboard. Ripplestreak shot a sympathetic glance at Larkpaw and Eaglepaw before following his clanmate.
Larkpaw glanced around the shed, catching a glimpse of a tortoiseshell fur in the shadows of a small and strange hole in the wall. It was surrounded by four walls, leaving an entrance. The tortoiseshell lifted her head as the apprentices approached her,βYou must be the former clan cats.β She murmured, glancing over the two smaller cats. βOne of you must belong to the clan where these two kits came from.β
βI am,β Larkpaw stepped forwards, her ears angled back.
The she-cat nodded,βAh, I see. I am Leafsky.β She glanced down to the three kits curled up around her belly,βMay I ask what their names are?β
βThe tomβs name is Foxkit, the she-kit is Snowkit.β The apprentice murmured. Foxkit was much larger than Snowkit, his fur a dark gray compared to Snowkits fuzzy white pelt and ginger patches.
βThis is Firekit,β She murmured, nosing the other white bundle of fur. His ears and tail tip were a pale orange, as well as his paws. βBirchstar killed his brother because he was born small and sickly. I hadnβt even named him.β Leafskyβs voice was tight with grief.
Larkpaw glanced at the tortoiseshell, her gaze soft,βI can see the kits are in good paws. I am Larkpaw, and this is Eaglepaw.β She flicked her tail to the black tabby tom.
βWell, Larkpaw, Eaglepaw, youβre welcome to whatβs left in the cabinet. Thereβs some room and rabbit leftovers if youβd like.β Leafsky offered.
βThank you,β She took a couple of steps through the entrance, surprised to find that it opened up to a tunnel of sorts. Larkpaw pressed herself against the end of the tunnel so that Eaglepaw could squeeze in next to her.
The smaller apprentice had no struggle in fitting into the cabinet. He curled up close to Larkpaw, eyes shut tight. While her stomach rumbled in hunger, sleep overtook her quickly.
Chapter Five
βI name you Darkfrost, IceClan shall honor you for your courage and skill.β Gorsestar
yowled, touching noses with the newly named warrior.
βIf only Larkpaw was here for this,β Darkfrost hissed quietly in the leaders ear. Gorsestar visibly flinched as he pulled away, but made no comment. He silently flicked his tail in dismissal, leaping back up into his tree.
Darkfrost leapt down from the chunk of rock,βItβs like she never existed.β He growled, trotting over to Redpaw.
βI know you miss her, but she has to be alive. Iβve yet to seen her in StarClan,β the medicine cat reminded Darkfrost,βwhoever took Snowkit, Foxkit, Yellowpaw, and Echostream probably took Larkpaw too.β
Hawkfire had approached the two cats and slid into the conversation,βI know, thatβs what every cat says, but itβs likely what happened.β
Darkfrost just growled,βIβm going hunting.β He turned and pushed past the two she-cats, ears flat against his head.
βGo with himβ¦β Hawkfire muttered in Redpaws ear as she gazed after the tom,βHe needs a friend.β
The medicine cat apprentice nodded and took off after Darkfrost,βWait up!β She called, almost running into the tom when he stopped abruptly.
βWe both know youβre not going hunting.β Redpaw murmured softly, gently nudging his shoulder,βWe can search together.β Several cats had disappeared and some had been stolen in the middle of the night. IceClan had lost two more cats a half moon later after Larkpaw had disappeared and the other Clans had been raided as well. Darkfrost would sneak out of camp and wander around the Twolegplace and the territory outside of Clan territory in search of his sister.
Darkfrost nodded and the two cats began to run in direction of the Twolegplace. The two IceClan cats were still within their borders, but they both skidded to a halt, their eyes wide. A large badger had emerged from the brush, claws extended and jaws snapping viciously.
βRedpaw run!β The dark tabby warrior hissed, puffing out his fur. His claws unsheathed, bunched up his shoulders to prepare to launch himself at the giant creature.
βYou canβt take on a badger alone!β She yowled, throwing herself at the badgerβs hind legs. Redpaw nipped at itβs legs, speeding away before it could strike.
Surprise at Redpawβs furiosity flashed in his eyes, but Darkfrost made no protest, instead leaped onto the badgers back. He dug his claws into its back and clamped down on its neck. It roared furiously, shaking off Darkfrost with ease. The warrior was tossed several fox-lengths away, his body landed with a soft thud against the earth. His breathing was shallow for a few moments before he got to his paws, off balance.
βNo!β Darkfrost stood, helpless, as the badger now loomed over a hissing Redpaw. There was no where else for her to go, she was cornered in front of a large boulder.
Redpaw met the beast eye to eye, fear keeping her immobile. Everything went silent as her world went black for a brief moment. When her eyes opened, she was much taller. Her body felt weird, clumsy even. She couldnβt speak or control her limbs, but only watched as a paw rose, intent to lash out at what she recognized as her body.
βGet away!β A furious howl erupted out of nowhere. Redpawβs head turned to see what the commotion was, and surprise filled her heavy limbs as she realized that a large white and brown tabby was charging towards the badger.
The cat barreled into the predatorβs flank, snapping Redpaw out of her trance. Her eyes jerked opened, revealing the tom fighting the badger mercilessly. She watched him fight breathlessly is he pushed his hind legs off the ground, hard, sinking his teeth in the badgers throat. It let out a strangled growl as it sank to the forest floor.
βThank you!β She meowed to the tom, but he was already running off into the Twolegplace. Redpaw shook herself, limbs sore. Her gaze fell upon a dark tabby mass lying at the base of a tree, βDarkfrost! No!β The medicine cat limped over to the warrior. His flanks lifted rhythmically, showing that he was okay, at least as far as Redpaw could tell.
The apprentice glanced around helplessly, she couldnβt leave Darkfrost, but he had to get help. βI canβt leave you.β She murmured to herself as she examined the clearing for anything she could use to help.
The sun had gone down by the time Darkfrost awoke. Redpaw was curled up next to him, head tilted to the dusk sky, her eyes glazed, distant in thought. She had repaired him the best she could, with cobwebs and several other herbs she had been able to find.
βI can make it back to camp.β Darkfrost declared, cautiously getting to his paws.
βCareful, you bruised some ribs.β Redpaw meowed, shaking her head. Whatever happened with the badger, it wasnβt the first time, or likely the last.
Darkfrost shrugged and limped back to camp, the medicine cat apprentice close by his weaker side in case he stumbled.
As the two cats padded silently back to camp, Redpawβs mind was racing. I donβt know whatβs wrong with meβ¦ Butβ¦ I wonβt be alone. She glanced at Darkfrost for a heartbeat, before shifting her gaze back to her paws.
Chapter Six
βWe practice with claws unsheathed,β Birchstar hissed, shoving his muzzle in an apprentices face. She glared back with hatred seething behind her brilliant blue gaze. He was standing on top of Larkpaw, who was stuck on her back. They had spent the morning battle training and Birchstar had insisted on using claws to simulate a real battle, hoping that it would improve the sense of urgency and desperate need to improve.
The white tabby apprentice refused to use her claws when attack a friend, but certainly had no problem having a valid excuse to tear at the other SoulClan warriors. Larkpaw shoved Birchstar off of her, surprising him with her brute strength. The sandy tabby tom growled and backed off, sulking away farther off into the Twolegplace. Larkpaw smiled to herself, always taking pleasure in angering Birchstar.
βItβs probably not a good thing to be on his bad side.β Ripplestreak padded over to her. They had been dueling partners when Birchstar intervened and tried to bully Larkpaw into attacking her friend with her claws.
βToo late now.β Larkpaw replied back with a thin sigh,βHe is well aware of how much I despise him.β She whisked her tail angrily. It had been several moons since she had last been an IceClan cat. By normal Clan standards, she would have been a warrior, but Birchstar had a vendetta against the white tabby and always found an excuse to force her to remain an apprentice. Shaking her head, Larkpaw declared,βIβm going hunting.β
βIβll come with you.β A husky voice meowed from behind. She turned, surprised to see that it was Whisperheart that had offered to hunt with her. He had been observing the battle practice, more out of personal curiosity on how Clan cats fought.
She could have sworn to StarClan that she saw eagerness flash in his eyes, as well as something else, but she just ignored it and nodded. Larkpaw trotted off into the forest, Whisperheart following closely. She glanced back at Ripplestreak, curious as to why he seemed slightly amused.
The two cats just walked in silence for awhile, keeping their eyes and ears alert to any sight of prey. Accidentally, they had chosen the part of the forest where Twolegs often roamed, so few prey remained in the area. Twoleg stench and trash made it hard to scent out any sort of prey.
Larkpaw froze suddenly. A soft chirping sounded from above. She glanced up, barely making out the pale blue feathers of a jay. Shuddering at the idea of climbing, she swallowed her fear and slithered up the tree silently. She could sense Whisperheart observing her quietly as she cautiously tested out the limb the bird was on. It initially made no sound, so she continued closing in on the jay.
Larkpaw, feeling confident in the branchβs sturdiness, leaped the rest of the distance towards the bird. As soon as she put all the pressure on her hind quarters and jumped, the branch snapped. The bird, alarmed, flew away ungracefully, making enough noise for a badger. Her stomach dropped as the branch snapped. She tumbled towards the ground, attempting to grasp on to one of the lower branches. Her claws grazed one of the branches, but not enough for her to snag on. Larkpaw shut her eyes tightly, waiting to hit the ground.
Thud! She landed on something big, bulky, and also rather fuzzy. Larkpaw couldnβt move for several heartbeats, her heart in her chest, pounding. It took several moments for her to gain back her breathe.
The white tabby apprentice struggled to her paws, shaking out her fur. She glanced down at to what had taken force of the fall. Larkpaw was genuinely surprised to see Whisperheart staggering to his paws, shaking off the leaves and dirt off of his thick ginger coat.
βAre you okay?β He asked after he seemed to shake off the effects of the fall. There was something in his gaze that reminded her of concern, but she wasnβt sure why.
βI guess.β Larkpaw muttered, stalking off into the undergrowth. She hated feeling that she now owed one of Birchstarβs cats, especially his son. Whisperheart had been one of the few kind SoulClan warriors, but she remained suspicious because he was, of course, the son of the cat she hated most.
βHey, wait!β He bounded after her, no longer caring if he disturbed any of the remaining prey.
She just ignored him and pressed on, focusing on finding prey. Birchstar would just love to point out that I canβt hunt. Larkpaw thought with distaste. She prefered more open land where she could just run, but SoulClanβs territory only consisted of the forest and some alleys in the Twolegplace.
βLarkpaw!β His voice turned sharp from panic. She turned around to tell him to back off, but was greeted to a huge, looming figure. It was an ugly thing, young Twoleg kit covered in colorful pelts reaching out for Whisperheart.
βGet away from him!β She snarled threateningly, fluffing out her fur. The kit just ignored her and proceeded to pick up the fluffy tom. Whisperheart was petrified and was unable to move, his eyes wide with fear.
Panic and dread filled her limbs as the kit wobbled away clumsily, shouting something. Larkpaw locked eyes with Whisperheart, guilt seeping through pelt. His seemed to lose hope as he watched her, unable to move before finally closing his eyes, as if giving up.
Something stirred within her, something she couldnβt place. Drawing on every drop of courage she had, she took a deep breathe and released an angry yowl. This got the attention of the Twoleg kit, for it turned around, only to see the white tabby charging her. Her claws were extended as she lashed at its legs. Her claws scraped against the skin, just enough to startle the young Twoleg. It yowled in pain, dropping Whisperheart.
He hit the ground running, taking off towards a bramble bush. Larkpaw followed closely, slipping in after him. She hissed as thorns dug into her fur as she pressed on. There was a small gap in the middle, just enough for one cat, maybe two. Whisperheart turned sharply, pushing himself into the bramble barrier to make room for Larkpaw. Both cats crouch in silence, their flanks heaving as they gasped for air. She could see the kits shadow through the brambles as it search desperately for the cats. It felt like ages as it circled the bramble bush until a faint voice called. It sighed heavily and trudged off, leaving the two cats alone.
βWeβre even now.β Larkpaw meowed, her voice flat. Her heart was still pounding, but she wasnβt sure why. The Twolegs were gone, she was safe, stuffed in the brambles. She struggled to get to the hole they had made getting in, especially considering she was practically on top of Whisperheart. He grunted as she churned her paws against his stomach as she managed to wiggle through the brambles.
It took Whisperheat even longer to get out, considering he was much bigger and had thicker fur than she did. The white tabby began to sulk towards camp, too tired to care that she hadnβt caught anything.
βWait up!β He called after shaking free all the brambles possible. The thick furred ginger tom bounded passed Larkpaw, blocking her path.
She snorted, her eyes narrowed in annoyance. Larkpaw tried to push past him, but he just stepped in front of her again.
βEnough of this!β Whisperheart sighed, lashing his feathery tail,βYou avoid me all the time. I understand the other SoulClan warriors, but I havenβt done anything wrong.β She was surprised by the confrontation, but more by the hurt that lurked in his eyes. βI am truly sorry for what my father has done. I am. Please, do not judge me by my father's actions, but my own.β
Larkpaw stood there, shocked. She was unsure of why he cared so much of her opinion of him. Her skepticism must have shown in her eyes because Whisperheart took a step forward, standing closely in front of her.
Utterly confused by what he was trying to say and the strange emotions swirling within her heart, Larkpaw slipped by him, speeding off towards camp. She could feel his gaze watching her as she disappeared into the brush.
Chapter Seven
βToday is a tremendous day!β Birchstar yowled from the top of the Twoleg nest,βToday is the day when I welcome several new warriors!β He gazed around the group of cats, which had doubled in size over the past few moons.
Larkpaw gazed up at the leader, heavy resentment resting in her heart. Eaglepaw stood next to her, now past her shoulders in height. Ripplestreak was licking mysterious wounds behind her, Breezebeck lying next to him. βFirst, I must accept Breezebeck and Ripplestreak as full warriors of SoulClan.β Birchstar paused for a moment as some cats cheered,βBut we are all gathered for the making of two fantastic warriors. Eaglepaw, do you promise to uphold the warrior code and protect your clan at all costs?β
βI do.β He meowed, lifting his head proudly.
βI name you Eaglethorn, we honor your courage and smarts.β The Clan cheered for the new warrior, but Birchstar calmed them down with a flick of his tail.
βLast but not least, is our most unexpected warrior. Larkpaw has surprised us all by her skill and speed, as well as her loyalty. Whisperheart did a fantastic job training you.β There was something in Birchstarβs voice that almost resembled a threat,βDo you promise to uphold the warrior code and protect your clan at all costs?β
βI do.β She meowed, hoping that she sounded enthusiastic.
He nodded approvingly,βI name you Larkfeather. SoulClan honors your speed and loyalty.β The clan chanted their names again, but Birchstar quieted them down again,βWith these two new warriors, SoulClan grows stronger. I must also name three new apprentices!β
βFirekit, Foxkit, Snowkit,β He called the three young kits. They werenβt yet 6 moons old, but that didnβt matter for Birchstar. βDo you all promise to uphold the warrior code and promise to train your hardest?β The sandy tom meowed.
βI do,β They all replied at once, eyes shining brightly.
Birchstar replied,βSoulClan welcomes you all. Ripplestreak will mentor Foxpaw. Teach him your restraint and tactics.β
Larkfeather glanced at Leafsky, who seemed satisfied with the choice. βLark feather, while you may be a fresh warrior, has proven herself enough to train Snowpaw. I hope you pass on your hunting skills and loyalty.β It was obvious that she was surprised by already getting an apprentice so soon, as her eyes were wide with shock.
βLastly, I name Whisperheart as Firepawβs mentor. I trust you will pass on your strength and stealth.β The three mentors got to their paws and padded over to their apprentices, touching noses with them. It didnβt surprise anyone, Whisperheart is Birchstarsβ only kin in the clan, being his only surviving son.
* * *
Within the couple of moons Larkfeather had received her first apprentice, Snowpaw had proven to be a successful hunter. More often than not, she would train her with Firepaw. The two apprentices got along fairly well, the competition encouraging them to work harder. It certainly didnβt hurt that she was spending much of her time with Whisperheart.Birchstar often watched her from afar through narrowed eyes, distrust and uncertainty flickering behind his eyes. The Clan was growing, rising in members quickly. How Birchstar led the βClanβ by ignoring the warrior code completely, attracted rogues. Even some of the stolen warriors even preferred SoulClan then their own.
Her dreams were frequently haunted by two eerily familiar cats whom names she couldnβt quiet place. They seemed so happy, so innocent, but something that she just couldnβt place was off. Sheβd just awoken from a horrid nightmare, where the white tabby she-cat was slaughtered by Birchstar, looming over the queen, blood matting his far as she attempted to protect her newborn kits. Ripplestreak was standing over her as Larkfeather, about to waken the exhausted warrior. Concern pooled in his eyes, but he just flicked his tail to the entrance wordlessly. She slipped out of the warriors den, easily locating Whisperheart. Ripplestreak had disappeared, likely off to find Riverstripe.
βMy warriors, my cats, gather beneath me, for I have news to share!β Birchstar called from his wooden overhang.
Within several moments, the Clan had gathered beneath him. Leafsky sat at the entrance of the nursery, Eagletalon sitting next to her. Ripplestreak and Riverstripe laid close together, with Larkfeather and Whisperheart sat near the warriors den. The apprentices had been tussling by their den paused, attention turning to Birchstar.
βIn four days we will launch a raid on IceClan. The following will remain in camp, Leafsky, Pebblefern, Brindlestep, Orchidwhisker,β All of the named cats nodded, with Leafsky looking more relieved than the others,βEveryone else will fight. No holding back, go for the kill.β His gaze rested on Larkfeather. She met his gaze, eyes bright and head lifted proudly. Birchstar, with his eyes still on the white tabby, continued,βWe aim to recruit two new members, what they rank does not matter. Recruiters will be rewarded,β he paused for a moment, lifting his gaze from Larkfeather as he proudly looked over his clan,βWe are growing. We are strong. We will, when this raid is successful, announce ourselves as a Clan at the next Gathering.β The cats of SoulClan cheered, but Birchstar quieted them with a tipping of his head,βPebblefern and Jayfoot have had three kits, Cinderkit, Willowkit, and Stonekit. With these additions, full of life and Clanblood, we are truly a Clan!β
Birchstar dismissed the clan with a flick of his tail, disappearing into the nest. As Whisperheart began to sort out patrols, the warriors and apprentices excitedly discussed the upcoming raid. βIβm going to show Foxpaw the desired IceClan and FireClan boundaries, want to join me?β Whisperheart trotted over to Ripplestreak and Larkfeather after sorting out patrols.
βNo.β Ripplestreak replied flatly, padding out of camp with Foxpaw at his side Firepaw trotted next to him, full of energy.
Whisperheart let out a thin sigh,βThereβs no hope with that one.β The two toms never had gotten along, getting into arguments more often than not.
βCome on then, itβll be me and you,β Larkfeather nudged him gently. Whatβs up with him? She wondered as Whisperheart just trudged forwards out of camp, slipping through the gap in the fence.
The only response he gave was an ear flick before exiting camp, Firepaw following closely. Larkfeather shook her head at the stubborn tom but followed him anyways. βKeep your eyes and ears open for anything suspicious.β She meowed to her apprentice.
Snowpaw nodded, sticking close to Larkfeather. The young cat was always careful and alert, complete opposite of her reckless brother. The two she-cats caught up to Whisperheart, Larkfeather walking close to him.
βIs there something wrong?β She murmured quietly. It wasnβt like him to be so quiet, there had to be something troubling him.
Whisperheart hesitated for a moment before replying with a brisk, βNo.β
Larkfeather narrowed her eyes,βI know when youβre lying.β Her voice was quiet, so that the conversing apprentices couldnβt hear. She rested her tail over his for a heartbeat, surpriseas he flinched at her touch.
He let out a thin sigh,βHe told me to choose.β Whisperheart lifted his head, keeping his eyes ahead of him.
βChoose between what?β She asked gently, knowing that something relatively important was troubling him.
βHe doesnβt believe you are truly loyal to SoulClan,β The ginger tom murmured,βIf I want to stay deputy, then I have to push you away.β
Larkfeatherβs heart skipped a beat,βThere has to be a way to prove him wrongβ¦β She didnβt want to end her friendship with Whisperheart, there had to be some way for her to prove she was loyal to SoulClan. Despite Birchstarβs concern being completely justified, neither him nor his son were aware of the growing rebellion right beneath their noses.
βIn the upcoming raid maybeβ¦β He trailed off into thought. Whisperheart paused for a moment, βMaybe if you kill someone worthy of attention, someone of title.β
Panic overran Larkfeather, killing wasnβt something she intended to do in any raidsβ¦ But if it was to protect her and cover up any thoughts of disloyalty, she had to. βIβm in. Let me lead a group, and Iβll kill the deputy,β She practically begged. Larkfeather wasnβt a killer, she wasnβt even sure she would be able to go through with killing the deputy, but she had to try.
Whisperheart glanced at her, obviously surprised that she was so willing to kill to protect their relationship,βI will speak with him, but I must warn you, with IceClan being our target, heβll be keeping a close eye on you. Birchstarβs intention to announce us as the fourth Clan, and he intends to send a strong message.β
βFine.β Fear gripped her stomach, obviously not wanting to kill any of her former clanmates, but she had no choice.
The rest of the patrol passed relatively quickly. They showed Foxpaw and Snowpaw where FireClan and IceClanβs borders were. They had almost ran into an IceClan border patrol when Foxpaw had gotten a little too excited and chased a vole across the border.
When the four cats got back to camp, the prey pile was freshly stocked. Just as Larkfeather dismissed Snowpaw, Ripplestreak called her over. The ginger and gray warrior trotted over, happy to find that there was half a rabbit left over for her. βHow was your little patrol with Whisperheart?β He asked, making no effort hide the distaste he had for him.
βIt was fine,β Larkfeather snapped, narrowing her eyes at him. She took a hungry bite of the rabbit, enjoying the tasteful juices.
βI have to kill Talonshadow.β Her voice was quiet, shrill with the pain.
Ripplestreak glanced at her, concern reflecting in his pale gaze, but didnβt speak for a few minutes, eyes clouded with thought. He waited until Larkfeather had finished the rest of the rabbit before replying,βWe need to keep the revolution quiet, and we need you get on Birchstarβs good side. Killing an old friend is going to be hard, but you have to.β He paused, shaking his head,βAlthough yourβ¦ fondness of Whisperheart is concerning.β
The white tabby she-cat flinched, looking away from Ripplestreak,βJust like your fondness of Riverstripe?β Larkfeather growled, eyes narrowed.
βShe may be of EarthClan, but sheβs a part of the rebellion.β The large tabby tom retorted,βBesides, sheβs not the daughter of a psychopath.β
She let out a heavy sigh,βJust because Birchstar is Whisperheartβs father doesnβt mean anything.β
βWhat do you think is going to happen when we lead our attack and destroy SoulClan? Whisperheart isnβt going to appreciate his mate being the leader of the cats destroying his clan.β Ripplestreak pointed out gently,βIβm trying to protect you from him and Birchstar.β
Confusion and pain coursed through Larkfeather. She got to her paws, knowing that he was right. It was her and Ripplestreak that had decided to gain allegiance with stray cats and those within SoulClan to supply aid when they attack. It was no secret, her fondness for Whisperheart, she had grownβ¦ attached when trying to gain information. βI need to go think,β she muttered to Ripplestreak, her voice cracking.
Larkfeather bounded out of camp, aware of Birchstarsβ accusing glare. She knew that heβd send someone after her in suspicion that she was leaving the clan permanently. Her paws barely skimmed the surface of the forest floor as she sped away, heading towards the Twolegplace. Few SoulClan cats dared to enter the Twolegplace alone during the day.
She slowed, knowing that it wouldnβt be smart to run headfirst in a Twoleg packed area. Her sides heaved, exhaustion tugged at her paws. Panic flashed through her as she looked around, confused by her surroundings. She was the last cat to willingly go into the Twolegplace as it was packed with strange scents, Twolegs, monsters, and countless other dangers. Tall, stone and wood buildings were everywhere. Strange scents, foreign and unfamiliar, whirled around her. Larkfeather looked around, her eyes huge with panic.
Iβm lost.
Chapter Eight
Larkfeather backed away into the shadows, hoping to avoid detection by dogs and Twolegs. She crouched, pressed close to the soothing coolness of the wall. Iβm never going to find my way backβ¦ The warrior let out a thick sigh, curling her tail close to her body. Not like thatβd be a bad thingβ¦
βAre you lost?β A voice called down.
Larkfeather jumped glancing up. She could see a small head looking down from her atop of one of the Twoleg dens. Her ears flattened against her head, a low growl emerged from the back of her throat. βAnd you are?β
βA friendly face.β The tom leaped down, revealing himself to be a ragged and scrawny ginger tom. His fur was patchy, ungroomed, but there was a calming, intelligient gleam in his bright green eyes. She found it strange that, as he circled her, never turned his head to that she could see the right side of his face. Larkfeather had noticed a strange scar on his chest that swerved up towards the hidden side.
Her eyes remained narrow, claws extended,βRogue or kittypet?β She had never encountered a kittypet face to face, but since SoulClan was built off of power-hungry rogues, she was unsure if this ginger tom was another of Birchstarβs agents.
βRogue,β He replied simply, pausing as his left eye met hers,βYouβre wondering why Iβm circling you without turning my head, yes?β
Larkfeather nodded, but said nothing in response. She clenched her muscles, preparing incase he decided to attack.
βOh calm yourself, small warrior, I mean you no harm.β He said down directly in front of her, tail neatly wrapped around his paws. The rogue lifted his head to meet her gaze, both emerald green eyes steady and calm.
She breathed in sharply, surprised by his appearance. The tomβs face was scarred severally, covering much of the right side of his face to part way down his chest. It appeared that he had been severally scarred by fire. No fur grew where it had touched, leaving a pink, wrinkled reminder. He remained emotionless, as if expecting some sort of surprised response.
βFine, Iβll be polite.β He huffed,βHi. My name is Phoenix, and what you are staring at is a burn.β Phoenix remained where he was, but lifted his paw to groom himself.
The exhausted warrior lifted her gaze to examine him farther than the scarred face, noticing that he had lean muscles from beneath his ragged fur.
βYou are from one of the Clans, correct?β He asked, meeting her gaze calmly. Phoenix set down his paw.
βI wouldnβt count SoulClan as a Clan, more of a prison.β Larkfeather growled, her tail flicking angrily,βItβs filled with fox-hearted merciless rabbits.β
The ginger tom snorted, clearly amused, βNot fond of them, are you?β He got to his paws and stretched, the scar darkening in the shadows,βWould you like to go home? I know the way to your camp.β
βI guess,β She murmured,βI canβt be skipping out now.β Phoenix nodded and trotted on, obviously confident on where he was going.
The two walked for a while, sharing stories of their hardship. The sun was slowly lowering, the sky getting darker as night approached. Larkfeather had begun to enjoy Phoenixβs company, resenting that she had started to recognize their surroundings. She stopped in her tracks, curiously meowing, βHey, I have a question.β
Phoenix paused next to her,βYouβre almost home, itβs unlikely that Iβm welcomed, best make it fast.β His tail whisked as his eyes darted from side to side, searching for other cats.
Her voice switched to a low whisper, βSoon, several other cats and I are rebelling, would you possiblyβ¦β Larkfeather trailed off, scared of finishing the sentence on the unlikely chance that one of the warriors could hear her.
The tom looked her directly in the eyes and nodded sharply, but before he could respond, his ears swerved forwards.
β-ind her. Birchstar is angry as it is that sheβs gone. Even with Whisperheart is unfortunately attachedβ¦ Sheβs not worth the trouble.β Two voices were murmuring, getting closer by the heartbeat. Larkfeather turned to say goodbye to Phoenix, but the ginger tom was already gone.
She sighed and sulked towards the approaching cats. Larkfeather continued to walk past them, not saying a word.
βLook who finally showed up!β Shinenose sneered. Next to the white tom stood a brindle tortoiseshell, Songfur, who glared at her. She made no attempt to hide hatred.
βBirchstar certainly isnβt happy with your absence.β She hissed, obviously annoyed that Larkfeather kept walking, slipping into camp without saying a word.
She felt the stares of her clanmates burning through her pelt. Larkfeather tried her best to ignore them, keeping her eyes focused on the grass in front of her sulked into the nursery.
βLarkfeather!β Three small bundles of fur ran towards her, almost knocking the white tabby off her paws.
βWhisperheart was worried.β Leafsky commented, not bothering to look up from the rabbit she was sharing with the kit'sβ mother, Pebblefern, a rather recent addition to the clan. Jayfoot appeared one day with her by his side, convincing Birchstar to add her to the clan. The leader had been delighted that she was pregnant with his kits, the first true βSoulClanβ warriors in his eyes.
Pebblefern picked up her brown tabby head, letting out a soft purr as the kits proceeded to tackle Larkfeather to the wooden floor. βI donβt know what they wouldβve done if you hadnβt returned.β She meowed, her tone light with amusement.
βA little help, please, Pebblefern?β She gasped, as the largest, a brown and white tabby tom named Stonekit, jumped on her flank.
βWillowkit, Stonekit, Cinderkit, come try this rabbit.β Their mother meowed, sparking all three of the kits interest. They barreled over to the two she-cats, inhaling what had remained of the prey.
Larkfeather got to her paws and padded over, laying a mess of moss and feather that the kits had recently destroyed. βSo Whisperheart came in looking for me?β
Leafsky nodded,βHe did, looking rather frantic and worried. Maybe even a little afraid.β Her meow was light, almost sounding amused,βYouβve been gone half the day you know, he almost got into a fight with Ripplestreak when you werenβt with him when he came back to camp. Birchstar forbid him from searching the Twolegplace for you.β
The white tabby pelt shifted her gaze to her paws, surprised at Whisperheartsβ concern. What if what Ripplestreak had said is true? My affection for him may be a weaknessβ¦ But for who?
βGo talk to him.β Pebblefern suggested, startling Larkfeather, whom had been deep in her thoughts.
βI guess,β She replied with a thin sigh. The she-cat got to her paws, dipping her head
to the two queens before slipping out of the nursery
The white tabby warrior scanned the clearing, noticing Ripplestreak sitting rather close to Riverstripe by the warrior den. He glanced up, meeting her gaze with relief showing in his eyes. She finally found Whisperheart, the dark gray warrior grooming himself near his fatherβs den.
Larkfeather took a deep breathe, padding over to him. Uncertainty swirled in her stomach as he lifted his head from grooming to greet her.
βYouβre back.β He commented casually, giving his flank one last lick,βFather was worried that you wouldnβt returnβ¦β Whisperheart trailed off, knowing that she had assumed his concerns already.
βIt wasnβt intentional. Birchstar should consider training us in the Twolegplace, itβs impossible to navigate.β She suggested, glancing that the surrounding Twoleg dens,βWhat would happen if we got attacked here? Where would we fle-β
βWe wouldnβt.β
βVantage points? What dogs? Where would the qu-β
βHow did you find your way back?β
She ignored him, knowing that it would be a poor choice to reveal an ally rogue to him,βqueenβs go? Rogues? Kittypets?β
βKittypets arenβt much of a worry, Larkfeather.β He pointed out,βAlthough I do see your point. Iβll talk to my father about it.β
The white tabby nodded, although her mind wasnβt on the Twolegplace training, but on how the rebels could get an advantage on the SoulClan cats. We know the same moves, the same tactics, itβd be too much of a fair fight. Some cats would hold back, especially the rebelsβ¦ There has to be something we can do.
βAre you okay?β Whisperheart murmured, touching his nose to hers. He glanced at her, concern heavy in his pale blue eyes.
βJust a lot on my mind,β She replied, shaking her head to clear away her thoughts. Larkfeather tried to appear less conflicted, rubbing her nose against his cheek,βIβm okay, really.β She murmured in his ear.
βPlease, Larkfeather, donβt lie to me. Would you like to take a walk? To clear your head?β He responded, getting to his paws. The ginger tom gave himself a quick shake,βCome on, Iβm not giving you an option.β Whisperheart nudged her shoulder, leading Larkfeather with his tail rested on her shoulder.
The two cats walked side by side in silence for what felt like endless heartbeats in the glistening moonlight. They traveled along the border, Larkfeather struggled to restrain herself from glancing at IceClanβs territory. Her heart longed for home, for Darkpaw, but as well as vengeance on SoulClan, but she had an role to play. Everyone had to pay for the injustice done to her, to her friends, to the Clans, no matter how much it hurt her in the process.
βThank you,β She murmured, her voice barely above a whisper,βI needed this.β Larkfeather hesitated, pushing aside her concerns and emotions,βI need you.β
Whisperheart stopped, brief surprise flashed through his eyes,βYou know how my-β
βFather thinks of me? Yes, I know.β She sighed heavily, herself surprised at how tight her throat was, how hard it was to keep talking,βBut I donβt care. Youβre all I have here, the only one that truly cares for me.β Larkfeather hesitated again, completely terrified of the effects of this night would have,βI lost my brother. Iβve never known my parents, without IceClan, Iβm truly alone.β Her voice had faded as she struggled to finish the sentence. She could no longer look at Whisperheart as she realized that she spoke the truth.
The brisk night air seemed to suffocate her as they stood in silence. Her heart raced, knowing that his response was crucial, not only towards the rebellion, but also for her personally.
The ginger-white tom turned to face her, his eyes soft. His eyes reflected the stars as he gazed into hers, βYou donβt have to be alone anymore.β
Chapter Nine
Larkfeather felt gazes burning through her fur as her and Whisperheart padded into camp the next morning, tails entwined. There was no need to look around for the accusative glares, she knew that it was from most, if not all, of the cats of SoulClan.
Guilt rested heavy in her stomach, although when she met eyes with Ripplestreak it dulled to a mere pang. βI need to work with Snowpaw on her balance, she may be a good hunter, but her fighting skills are terrible.β She mumbled to Whisperheart.
βFoxpaw could use some advice too,β He offered, eyes bright with enthusiasm.
βNeither I nor Snowpaw could focus with you two, she gets distracted easily.β Larkfeather replied with a fake sigh, wanting to slip away to talk to Phoenix and Ripplestreak,βBesides, you have to talk to Birchstar about the Twolegplace training, yes?β
Whisperheart let out a thick sigh, his disappointment lying thickly in his voice,βYouβre rightβ¦β The ginger tom gave her ear a quick lick before trotting off to Birchstarsβ den.
Larkfeather released a quiet sigh of relief before padding over to Ripplestreak. The angry flare in his eyes was unsurprising to say the least, βDonβt. Let me explain.β She growled in a low voice,βPlease.β
βFine.β He seethed, eyes narrowed,βDoes this conversation need to be private?β He flicked his tail at Riverstripe and Foxpaw chatting next to him.
βYes.β She replied,βLet us take Snowpaw though, I need to at least look like Iβm training her.β
Larkfeather summoned her apprentice and the three cats trotted out of camp, heading for the outskirts of the Twolegplace. Ripplestreak remained silent as Larkfeather discussed with Snowpaw tips for hunting various types of prey. Regardless of how much she tried to focus on teaching her apprentice,
βSnowpaw, I want you to hunt by yourself.β She meowed gently to the apprentice,βBe mindful of the borders.β
βIβve never gone hunting alone beforeβ¦β The apprentice glanced around them, unnerved by their surroundings and the thought of being alone.
βIf you catch something by sunhigh, I will teach you whatever youβd like tomorrow,β Larkfeather promised, giving the apprentice an affectionate lick on the forehead,βYou can brag to your brothers about your hunting skills.β
With the prospect of being able to show up her brothers, the snowy apprentice bounded away into the forest.
βSheβll be fine,β Ripplestreak murmured in her ear,βSnowpawβs responsible. Although Iβm not sure if her fur helps huntingβ¦β His gaze shifted, looking her straight in the eye,βExplain to me now, what happened last night.β He made no effort to hide his anger, but his tone was also laced with curiosity.
Larkfeather took a deep breathe, taking note of the lurking guilt before telling her friend what sheβd done. He listened in silence, only clenching his jaw as she got to what had happened with Whisperheart.
βSo you deliberately disobeyed me.β Ripplestreak growled, beginning to pace. His tail flicked angrily,βI asked one thing of you!β he seethed, eyes blazing.
βDid I not ask you to let me explain?β Lark feather snapped, whirling around to face him. Her heart pounded, still riddled with guilt. The brown and white tabby tom narrowed his eyes, but remained silent.
βThank you.β She meowed tartly,βWhen you had said that what I feel for Whisperheart is a weakness. I took some liberties.β She paused for a moment, thinking about her next words carefully,βWhenever we lead this attack, itβd throw him off. I just have to keep playing himβ¦β She drifted off, dropping her gaze from his.
βPlaying him, Larkfeather?β He shook his head,βIs it worth it? All of this pain it will cause you.β Ripplestreak sat down next to her,βJust be careful, okay? I know how you feel about him and what youβre giving up.β
βYou donβt like him anyways. There was never a chance for me to be happy with him regardless.β Larkfeather pointed out, well aware what she was giving up, but she had no hope for it working out positively anyways,βIt is just what has to be done. Even with a couple of rogues, we need an advantage, and betraying him will give us some sort of advantage, some sort of hesitation.β
Chapter Ten
After the strange attack by the badger, Darkfrost had recovered well. He had given up on finding his sister, falling even deeper into a brooding depression. Always quiet, only confiding only in Redpaw and Talonshadow, he continued to work harder than most of the warriors. He had become short and always angry.
The constant teasing from Spidernose led to several fights between the two warriors.
Gorsestar, while running out of patience for the two, refused to punish Darkfrost. Both toms strived for approval, the need to be accepted by the Clan.
Even with Spidernosesβ Clanborn heritage, he had been born from consequence of breaking the warrior code. The former medicine cat, Runninghawk took a mate within the Clan, Cloudyfern. She died giving birth, with Spidernose being the only surviving kit. In shame, Runninghawk left the clan, abandoning his son and leaving Willowcreek to take up the mantle of medicine cat.
In the season cycle after Larkpawβs and Flightsongβs kits disappearance, Gorsestar had become reserved, more distant. Archstar and Thornstar became regulars, discussing the abductions from all three clans. No action could be taken since no cat knew where they were coming from, just that they were ruthless, with nothing stopping them from killing.
βRedsky, please go get some catnip,β Willowcreek meowed as she glanced worriedly at Sagekit,βTake Darkfrost with you, and Spidernose. Be quick, please.β
Her mentors concerning meow jolted the red tabby out of a distracted daze,βOkay.β She darted out of the medicine cat den, her gaze immediately searching for the toms. Redsky quickly found Darkfrost and trotted over to him,βWillowcreek needs us to get catnip, Spidernose is coming too.β She glanced back at the medicine den, knowing that Sagekitβs too young to survive the cough for long.
βAnyone but himβ¦β he groaned, ears flattening against his skull.
Redsky ignored him, calling out into the warriors den for the creamy tom. Within a few moments, he sulked out of the den, scowling in annoyance that he was forced to be running herb errands. Spidernose grumbled to himself, but oddly enough didnβt say anything.
βWe have to be fast, please, no fighting.β Redsky growled,βSagekits life is at risk.β Both toms just glanced at eachother, but said nothing. A kits life was more important than their petty feud, and they both knew it.
Wordlessly, the trio bounded out of camp. They moved swiftly through the forest, heading towards the Twolegplace. Catnip was scarce, with the only way to find it was scavenging the Twoleplace for the addicting leaves.
βKeep your eyes open,β Darkfrost advised as they entered the Twolegplace. The group slowed to a fast walk, with all three cats peeking into Twoleg gardens. They started hopeful, assuming that it would take no time at all to find the herb. But time stretched on as they failed to find any catnip, each heartbeat felt like eternity.
They rested in a dark alley as the sun started to lower, out of sight from any Twolegs. βWe wonβt ever find catnipβ¦β Spidernose growled as he began to pace. His tail whisked angrily, claws uncomfortably scrapping the dark, hard ground.
βCatnip? Why are you so desperate for that?β A feathery sand brown she-cat jumped down from a weird hollow tree trunk. Her head was tilted curiously, her dark brown eyes searched the group of cats.
βWho are you?β Spidernose meowed, hackles rising. He padded over to face her, eyes narrowed. Darkfrost slid in front of Redsky, claws extended.
βOh calm down, I have no intention of hurting you,β She laughed,βCanβt I be curious on why youβre here? Itβs obvious you donβt belong here.β The rogue peered around Spidernose and Darkfrost to see Redsky,βObviously Iβm not going to get through to these two, what do you want with catnip?β
The cream tabby tom looked taken aback that this random loner wasnβt threatened by either of the warriors.
βPleaseβ¦β Redsky slipped passed Darkfrost to talk with the sandy she-cat.
βKorra.β She meowed, nodding for the medicine cat to continue.
βWe have a kit, back in our Clan, she has a bad coughβ¦β Redsky trailed off, looking down at her paws, fearing to finish the sentence.
Immediately, with alarm flashing in her eyes, Korra meowed,βKeep up.β With that, she took off into Twolegplace. The three cats sped after her, struggling to keep her in sight. Redsky was falling behind, but pushed herself as harder, paws barely skimming the tar surface.
Within mere moments, they arrived at a Twoleg nest, the garden filled with various herbs and plants. βOver here,β Korra called when she spotted the catnip,βIs this enough?β She pointed a claw at a huge clump of catnip.
Redsky nodded,βThis should be enough, everyone, grab what you can.β Darkfrost and Spidernose each took what they could, mouths packed with the juicy leaves.
βYou need a way home right? I can lead you back to the forest.β The bronze she-cat offered, eyes bright with amusement.
βThank you, Korra,β she meowed in gratitude towards the rogue,βWe couldnβt have found this without you.β Korra nodded and bounded over the fence with ease, followed by Darkfrost and Spidernose. Redsky gathered the remaining leaves in her mouth, scrambling after her clanmates.
It took far less time than before to find their way back to the forest, saying a quick good-bye to Korra. The patrol sped off, running as fast as they could to get back to camp. Exhaustion tugged at all of their paws, wandering around the Twolegplace was certainly a tiring task.
βYouβre back! Thank StarClan!β Willowcreek greeted them at the entrance,βAnd with so much catnip!β She led the three into the medicine cat den, which had increased in number. Flystream and Hawkfire were curled up near Sagekit, suffering from the same cough. βI worry that weβll have greencough epidemicβ¦β
She pointed to where she wanted the catnip with an extended claw. The three cats
gently unloaded the catnip, with Willowcreek ordering the two warriors out to rest.βGive Sagekit a half leaf, Iβll handle Flystream and Hawkfire.β
Redsky quietly coaxed the small ginger kit to take a bit,βLittle one, please, itβs really good,β she murmured giving the scrawny kit a couple licks. Sagekit carefully nibbled on the leaf, letting out a joyful squeal, and inhaled the rest. Within a few moments, she had fallen asleep, looking even the slightest better.
βI donβt want you in here unless I need you,β her mentor meowed, not looking up from her examination of Flystream,βI donβt need you getting sick. Help out with hunting, if you see any herbs, pick them up, sleep in the warriors den.β
βDonβt you need me to help take care of the sick cats?β Redsky questioned,βSurely I can be helpful?β
βNo, I can handle these three. If both of us get greencough, IceClan would be doomed. Iβm just taking precaution, now go.β She replied, her attention remained on the sick tortoiseshell.
The red tabby nodded, leaving with a simple good-bye. Unsure of what to do, she padded over to the prey pile, picking up a scrawny vole. Redsky sat down alone, picking at her food. What am I supposed to do? Iβm not allowed in the medicine den.... Lost in her thoughts, she hadnβt noticed Darkfrost sitting next to her.
βHey,β he meowed, sitting close to her,βI just told Gorsestar about the catnip, and Korra.β
Startled by his appearance, it took her a few moments to respond,βWhy did you tell him about Korra?β Jealousy pierced at her heart, a feeling she had gotten used to since the badger incident.
βIf she ever comes searching for our help, we owe her to not be attacked while coming for us,β he pointed out, resting her tail on hers,βWe got the catnip, Sagekit is going to be okay.β
βYou have a point I suppose,β she sighed, pushing down the jealousy,βFlystream and Hawkfire have a cough too, but we donβt know if itβs greencough yet.β Redsky paused, taking a bite of the vole,βIβve also been ordered out of the medicine cat den until theyβre better.β She pushed away the vole, her stomach hollow.
βWhat are you supposed to do? Where are you supposed to sleep?β He questioned, concerned that she wasnβt eating,βYou have to eat, you have to stay strong.β Darkfrost pointed out, nudging the vole towards her,βI can help you pick herbs tomorrow and we can hunt.β Darkfrost offered eagerly.
βFine.β Redsky grumbled and slowly picked at the vole. Darkfrost watched with a satisfied gleam in his eyes.
They sat in silence as the day darkened, transitioning to night. Most of the Clan cats, save for the two warriors standing guard, had retreated into Redsky lifted her head, watching the moonrise into the sky. Her ear flicked at the hoot of an owl far off into the woods.
βCome, you can share my nest in the warriors den.β The dark tabby tom whispered in her ear.
βI canβt.β Redsky whispered painfully. She knew that her clanmates would question her and Darkfrostβs friendship, if they hadnβt already.
Agony lit the dark tabby eyes, as well as hurt. He had taken it personally, that she didnβt care for him enough to share a nest for a couple of nights. Wordlessly, he got to his paws and began sulking away towards the warriors den.
βWait.β She meowed louder than she intended to. I shouldnβtβ¦ butβ¦ Whisperheart turned as she asked. Redsky visibly flinched at the desperation and lonliness embedded in his dark eyes. Her heart ached for him, but she had to consider the warrior code.
The red tabby shook her head, forcing away the concern she had about the warrior code and followed him into the warrior's den. What harm can one night do, really?
Chapter Eleven
βEveryone, go to your patrol leaders!β Birchstar meowed into the frosty night. He his silloute shadowed the cats as they gathered below him, almost as if the moon rested on his shoulders. Leaf-bare was on its way, shown by bitter winds. He was perched on his metallic ledge, looking down on his Clan. The warriors dispersed after hearing the leaderβs plan and announcing the battle patrols for the IceClan raid that night.
It would be Birchstar, Larkfeather, Breezebeck, and Emberfoot leading small groups, each having their own targets. Birchstar and Whisperheart, surrounded by his top warriors, were in charge of attacking Gorsestar. Larkfeather and her group, luckily including Riverstripe, Snowpaw and Firepaw, aimed to take down the deputy. Breezebeck and his warriors were to steal whatever kits or apprentices they could. It was up to Emberfoot and his cats to prevent any cat from escaping.
Her patrol gathered around her, annoyed that Shinenose and Softfur were placed in her group, likely to observe her. They were both whispering to each other as they came over, obviously unhappy having to be stuck in the group with her. Nervousness snipped at her stomach, her heart thumping. She released a heavy sigh, casting a desperate glance at Ripplestreak, whom was looking considerably miserable in Whisperheartβs patrol.
βYouβll be fine,β a deep and calm voice whispered in her ear, spooking the white tabby, almost startling Larkfeather out of her fur,βDo what you have to, Iβll keep an eye on the apprentices.β A white tom with ginger patches stood next to her, tail resting on her shoulder. He gave her cheek a reassuring lick,βYou can do this.β
βThank you Jayfoot,β she leaned against him, barely able to breathe,βI donβt know if I can go through with itβ¦β Jayfoot had become an unexpected ally, being one of Birchstarβs original rogues. Her friendship with Pebblefern led to the two becoming close friends, as well as a beneficial ally to the rebellion. Most of the rebels consisted of former Clan cats, with the exception of Leafsky, Pebblefern, and Jayfoot.
Before he could respond, Birchstar yowled, signalling for the patrols to move. Her patrol swiftly ran out of camp, following the leader, followed closely by the other cats. Riverstripe and Jayfoot flanked, with the apprentices in the middle following closely to Shinenose and Softfur. Larkfeather restrained herself from taking off, knowing she could outpace every cat to warn her Clan, but itβd be selfish, promising death for her friends and family.
Larkfeather kept her gaze focused ahead, sorrow and nervousness confusmed her as they neared the IceClan camp. Moonlight shined through the trees, revealing the quiet camp. Only a single cat guarded the entrance, although his attention was elsewhere, having no time to call a warning before he was mauled.
βFind a dark tabby named Darkfrost, make sure heΒ΄s out of harm.β She whispered, almost inaudible, to Riverstripe, who merely gave a slight nod in response.
Birchstar waited for a moments, waiting for every patrol to get into position before yowling,βSoulClan, attack!β As the strange cats flooded the camp, the IceClan cats were dragged from their nests. They let out yowls of fear and panic, waking up any cat that wasnβt already up.
She knew her target, the only cat she intended to harm was Talonshadow. Ensuring her loyalty to SoulClan and freeing the Clan cats was more important than one life was what Larkfeather kept telling herself, failing to convince herself otherwise.
Throughout the chaos, she recognized so many faces, but failed to identify her brother. Homesickness, loneliness, guilt, sadness, everything came crashing down, causing Larkfeather to become lightheaded. Hardly able to focus, she kept searching for Talonshadow.
Suddenly, she hit the ground, winded. Snarling in her face was a black and white tom, his jaws and claws dripping in blood. βMurderous scum!β He hissed, his dark green eyes wild and cruel. He gripped her scruff and tossed her several tail lengths away. Larkfeather skidded to her paws, sinking her claws into the bloodied grass to regain balance.
The white tabby screeched in rage and darted over to him, clamping her jaws onto his shoulder. He roared with pain, reached around and grabbed the loose skin around her neck. Immediately, Larkfeather let go to hiss in pain. The tom slammed his paw down on her neck, shoving his muzzle in to hers, βThis is for my father!β He began to claw ruthlessly at her belly, taking out tufts of white fur with every claw stroke. She felt her strength ebbing away as she struggled desperately.
All at once, the weight was gone. Larkfeather could breathe again. Wincing, she got to her paws. Her heart skipped a beat when she recognized a black and white tom at her paws. Drizzlepaw! She saw Birchstar disappear into the crowd, coming to two realizations at once. Not only had he killed Drizzlepaw, he killed him to save her. Now is not the time to question him now! She shook her head, searching again for Talonshadow.
Her gaze flickered around worriedly, freezing up completely when her eyes rested on a light brown she-cat viciously clawing at Jayfoot. She relaxed when she noticed how sparce and light the ginger-white tom was going on Hawkfire. Larkfeather shook her head, trying to focus on finding Talonshadow.
She desperately scanned the broken and busy camp for the pale orange tom. Finally, she found him, tussling with Dustspeckle. Larkfeather, pushing down all of her emotions, slipped through the fighting, intent on her target. The SoulClan warrior was going for the kill, mercilessly clawing at TalonshadowΕ exposed stomach. The deputy struggled to combat the speckled tom, landing only a couple of brutal blows to Duskspecklesβ belly. Lark feather grabbed Duskspeckles scruff, throwing him off of the injured tom, Β¨He's mine.β She hissed in his ear, shoving him off into the throng of fighting cats.
Β¨Familiarβ¦β He coughed, before weakly lunging at her, but his shoulder gave out, landing at her paws. Talonshadow struggled to his paws, gazing into her eyes,Β¨Whoβ¦β
It had been several moons since he had last seen her. She had gone from a scrawny, lithe young cat to a muscular, strong she-cat that came into her own. Larkfeather unsheathed her claws, pushing him to the ground. She swallowed the bile that rose in her throat as she stared helplessly at her old friend, sorrow weighing down her limbs. She raised her right paw, claws extended, ready to slice his throat.
βNo!β A single yowl froze the white tabby where she stood, paw still raised in the air. The voice that reassured her in so many nightmares, the voice that she yearned for, the voice that belonged to her only kin.
Larkfeather couldnβt resist but glance over her shoulder, the mere sight of her brother made her shiver. She locked eyes with Darkfrost briefly, shaken by the shock of recognition that darkened his eyes. Beside him stood a red tabby she-cat, eyes wide with terror.
βLarkpaw?β Came the forced question, although he already knew the answer,βWhatβs going on?β His ears flattened, taking a cautious step forwards, taking a glance down at whom she was standing on. A low growl rose in his throat as it hit him, she intended to kill his former mentor.
The red tabby stood in front of him, staring directly into Larkfeathers eyes. She froze completely, feeling as if she had no control over her body. She struggled to fight this invisible force that overcame her. Larkfeather struggled to breathe, feeling as if she was suffocating. It wasnβt just her though, the red tabby sank to the ground, gasping. The hold broke, allowing for the white tabby to finally breathe.
βRedsky!β Darkfrost, now distracted by the red tabbyβs struggle, leaned down to make sure she was okay
Taking a deep, final breath, she sliced Talonshadowβs throat. Intentionally a clean cut, he died instantly, without any more suffering. She stood, sorrow filling every limb.
A screech of rage came from behind her, followed by a pain searing in her back. Darkfrost clung to her back, tearing at his sister's fur. Larkfeather shook viciously, throwing him off with some clumps of fur.
He immediately got back onto his paws and charged at her. Before he could attack her once more, Riverstripe met him head on. The two cats tussled on the bloodstained ground, equally matched.
Larkfeather, still shaken by her brotherβs surprise attack, backed away. She retreated to Talonshadows body, intending to pay her respects to her former friend. What she found was Birchstar, bloodied from head to claw, clumps of fur missing, stood over Redsky,β-are you positive?β He snarled in her face, teared bared.
Her voice waved, but her eyes did not, meeting his gaze calmly, she growled,βIt was her, slaughtered him where he stood.β
Birchstar was taken aback, certainly surprised by the red tabbyβs word. He let out a single yowl, calling for his clan to retreat. SoulClan cats, battered and bloodied, fled, running hard and fast out of the IceClan camp.
Larkfeather turned to follow Birchstar as he sprinted out of the broken camp, but ran muzzle first into Gorsestar. Their eyes met for a heartbeat, surprised to find remorse, almost regret or guilt embedded in his dull blue eyes. She froze, her heart stopping. Throughout the moons sheβd been kidnapped and riddled with dreams of strange cats, everything came together. She opened her jaws to try and confront him, but nothing came out. Larkfeather was speechless, strangely unable to comfort Gorsestar. He paused for a moment as he pushed passed her, almost as if wanted to say something, but remained silent. Larkfeather cast a long gaze around her ruined camp, absorbing damage and bodies that laid on the forest floor.
βCome,β came the calm, reassuring whisper from Ripplestreak. He had stayed behind to ensure Larkfeather didnβt get captured. He nudged her shoulder with his nose, leading her out of the camp, tail resting on her shoulder.
The two cats loped back to camp in silence. Nothing needed to be said, he knew how she felt, that nothing he said could reassure her. They both knew sacrifices would be made for the rebellion to succeed, it was merely unfortunate that it was Larkfeather that was losing everything.
Whisperheart greeted the two cats at the entrance, his fur sticky with blood. Ripplestreak left Larkfeather with him, dashing off to find Riverstripe. βWe can go wash off in the stream once Birchstar makes his announcement.β Whisperheart murmured in her ear, leading her over to a sheltered spot in the camp, away from every other cat.
She sank to her paws, finally able to breathe. He laid down next to her, flank pressing into hers,βI am proud of you,β he meowed, resting his tail on hers.
Larkfeather just let out a soft grunt, resting her head on her bloodstained paws. The look of shock on her brothers face haunted her every thought. This is the first time Iβve killedβ¦ Her mind kept replaying the events over and over. There wasnβt anything she could do to get her mind off of her slaying Talonshadow.
βToday was a success!β Birchstarβs yowl ringed through the camp. While no one moved from their spot, all heads lifted towards him,βWe welcome Skypaw, Starlingkit, and Flashkit as members of IceClan! Shinenose, you will mentor Skypaw,β Larkfeather shifted her gaze up to him, hatred seething beneath her fur as he continued to talk,β but alas, as we gain three members, we lost two. I regret to say that Breezebeck and Softfur died fighting bravely.β He paused in, obviously affected by the death of their clan mates. This surprised her, not only by the death of both of the warriors, but that Birchstar actually cared. βAfter speaking to Whisperheart, and having the realization that we arenβt invisible, Iβve decided to train in the Twolegplace. The extra training will do us good, especially when I announce us as SoulClan in a couple of sunrises.β
Those in the clan that had enough strength cheered as Birchstar raised his tail to silence them,βI must admit to something though, I had my doubts about you, Larkfeather. I didnβt like how close my son had gotten to you, because, to simply put it, I didnβt trust you,β he matched her gaze calmly,βbut, I was wrong. In efforts to prove yourself, you killed Talonshadow, a former friend and Clanmate. For my misjudgement, I apologize.β And with Birchstarβs surprise apologize, he dismissed the Clan.
Whisperheart curled closer to Larkfeather and began to groom her bloodied fur. With guilt and sorrow seeded in her heart, finding refuge in the first dreamless slumber she has had in moons.
Chapter Twelve
βMy Clan, we must discuss the effects of the battle,β Gorsestar meowed, perched on a large rock once the rogues had all left camp. His tail was curled neatly around his paws, his gaze reflecting pain. There was something else burning in his dark eyes that Darkfrost guessed was betrayed. Redsky sat next to him, applying a herb mix to his shoulder. The marble tabby tom had been slashed from head to paw, but none the less, held himself together for the clan. Right now, they needed to know their leader was strong instead of crumbling apart from inside out.
βIβve had several confirmed sightings that a couple of the missing warriors participated in the battle, on the rogues side. We are unsure why, but they are to be captured on site.β He meowed to those who had gathered below him,βWe will take Breezebeckβs body to FireClan soon, and bury the rogues outside of camp. Tonight, we shall hold proper vigil for Talonshadow, Yellownose, Birdnose, Drizzlenose and Leopardflash,β he paused, his throat tight in grief.
Shock rippled through the crowd as they learned of Talonshadowβs death. The moment that the initial shock disintegrated was chaotic. A mournful cry sounded from the medicine cat den, likely coming from Lightfeather. She hadnβt healed well and wouldnβt likely ever become a full warrior again as she was blind in her right eye and had a crippled shoulder. Mournful yowling and surprise deafened the silent morning. There were also murmurs of curiosity for who would take up the mantle of being deputy.
He took a deep breath and continued,βI believe that Talonshadow would agree with my choice in deputy. While he is young, loss has made him experienced and a hardened warrior. I welcome Darkfrost as the next deputy of IceClan, do well to carry on your mentorβs legacy.β
Surprised whispers echoed through the crowd, but no cat complained. Several cats looked skeptical, a couple even turned their heads. Darkfrost struggled to get to his paws, finding no wind in his chest to speak.
Redsky caught a strange gleam in the leader'sβ eyes, curious to find pride that had revealed itself through heavy grief.
The dark tabby shook himself out, finally gathering the courage to leap up to Redsky and Gorsestar, He visibly winced, but pushed passed the pain, lifting his head proudly,βI will try my hardest to honor Talonshadowβs memory, but also to revenge our fellow Clanmates.β His meow sharp, filled with grief and anger. Redsky rested her tail reassuringly as she continued to tend Gorsestar.
Those who were fit enough approached Darkfrost, questioning him on what they could do. Only a pawful of cats were in condition to patrol, maybe six at the most. He ordered them to simply hunt, borders could wait until later.
Gorsestar leaped down from the rock, leaving Redsky and Darkfrost alone to talk so he could talk to Willowcreek. She was busy treating Spidernose, whom had suffered a severe wound from his chest to belly.
βCongratulationsβ¦β Redsky muttered, concern hinting in her meow.
βFor what?β He growled, staring at his paws,βFor the betrayal of my sister? Death of my mentor?β Darkfrost choked out those last few words as he struggled to accept the death of Talonshadow. The brindle tom had been the closest thing he had ever had to a father.
Redsky let out a soft sigh, leaning against him, resting her head beneath his chin. She felt him shiver as a wave of grief hit him.
His eyes were shut tight as he struggled to keep himself together. Even with Redskyβs presence, he felt alone in the world. Her scent was initially comforting, but the guilt of breaking the warrior code rotted in his stomach. It doesnβt matter. Sheβs all I have. If I get exiled, so be it. I have nothing here for me.
Darkfrost moved away from her, his heart heavy with pain. He slid off if the rock, gaze slid to Breezebecks body, βMoonshy! Berryheart!β He called to the two warriors. They had recently been treated, neither had severe wounds and could make it to the FireClan camp with ease. Moonshy had a chunk of flesh removed from her shoulder and Berryheart would have a nasty scar running down his flank. Moonshy immeditaly limped over to the new deputy as Berryheart murmured something quiet to Hawkfire before padding over. βCan you both assist me to FireClan? We need to return Breezebecks body.β Darkfrost requested,βIβm sure you must be exhausted, butβ¦β
The two nodded, with Moonshy replying, βOf course. I can wash off this sticky and gross blood in the river too.β
Berryheart dipped his head, carefully grabbing the dead warriors scruff. Darkfrost assisted him, nosing the stiff body onto his back. Moonshy lead the patrol out of camp, their pace brisk. They moved through the forest quietly and quickly, the only words spoken were warnings of fallen branches and holes.
Cautiously, they crossed the river without any mishaps. Briefly, Moonshy and Berryheart washed themselves off. Darkfrost stopped at the border, noticing the marking was fresh, βIt seems we have missed the dawn patrol, we might as well go to their camp.β Moonshy glanced around before stepping into FireClan territory, continuing on since she saw no cat.
They traveled swiftly through the thick pines, not wanting to be there longer than need be. When the small patrol arrived at FireClanβs camp, which was essentially large rocks and bramble dens, a solid black tom met him at the entrance. βWhat is this?β He questioned calmly, his coal black eyes remained expressionless as he examined the three cats.
βHello, I am Darkfrost fro-β
βI donβt care, what are you doing here? Whose body do you come with?β Batwing interrogated, unable to get a clear view of the bloodied body on Darkfrosts back.
βSuch events that I will discuss with Archstar, but we have brought Breezebeckβs body to you.β He ignored the interruption, simply wanting to explain last night's battle with the FireClan leader.
βFine. Follow me.β Batwing growled, eyes narrowed slightly. He led the three cats into FireClan camp. The black tom waved his tail, telling them to wait at the bottom of an oak tree. He leaped up, disappearing in a large hole in the elderly tree.
Darkfrost gently laid down Breezebecks body, stretching out his sore muscles. He visibly winced, previously unaware of a long scratch going from his upper shoulder to low flank.
Berryheart and Moonshy sat close behind Darkfrost, talking quietly. It didnβt take long until a russet ginger cat slid down the tree, landing in front of the dark tabby. Followed closely by Batwing, Archstar glanced at Breezebecks body, then at the battered patrols.
βI am Darkfrost, deputy of IceClan. Last night, we were attacked by rogues, or SoulClan as they call themselves. They stole a couple cats, killing Talonshadow in the process. We recognized Breezebeck and thought it would be right to give his body home.β Dark frost explained carefully, trying to avoid making his clan sound weak.
Archstar remained silent for a few moments, taking time to absorb what the IceClan warrior had said. βI am sorry for your loss, but I will not provide a vigil for Breezebeck. He left us moons ago, apparently to join some rogue clan. I will let his kin say goodbye and be buried in camp, but I shall not honor him as a fallen FireClan warrior,β she replied simply,βBut thank you, for returning his body. I think itβs time for you to go home.β
He wasnβt surprised by her curt and quick response, Archstar wasnβt known for her hospitality or general kindness. Darkfrost simply gave a quick nod and got to his paws, waving his tail to signal his clanmates to follow.
The dark tabby returned to camp by himself, leaving Berryheart and Moonshy to hunt for themselves. He was grateful for the time alone, leaving him time to think. He came to terms with his affection for Redsky, accepting the knowledge that he would do anything for her.
Darkfrost limped over to Redsky, whom was resting on a patch clean moss near the medicine den. He winced, realizing that his flank wound was bleeding once more. Ignoring it, he quietly curled next to her. She shifted her body slightly, but otherwise didnβt move as Darkfrost rested his tail over hers. The dark tabby was soon comforted by her soft snoring as he soon drifted off into a deep slumber.
Chapter Thirteen
Nearly a moon had passed since the raid on IceClan. SoulClanβs camp almost burst with busy cats, every cat was doing something. Whether it be hunting, training, or practicing battle tactics, there was hardly a quiet moment. Every other moonrise, Birchstar would lead a patrol into the Twolegplace, alternating through every cat in the clan. He hoped the training in the confusing maze would provide some advantage over the other clans. Naturally the former rogues easily navigated the dangerous place, while the former Clan cats felt exposed and struggled to find their way through the countless Twoleg dens.
Her hatred for Birchstar grew with every passing day, but could do nothing about it. She had to continue to play this perfect mate to Whisperheart and the perfect warrior for Birchstar. Deceiving Whisperheart is what hurt most, she lied to him repeatedly. There was nothing more that she wanted than to abandon the rebellion and SoulClan and run away with him, but she knew he wouldnβt leave his beloved clan. All the rebels had done wouldβve been for nothing, all she had sacrificed, completely pointless.
Larkfeather struggled through each day but never gave up. She relentlessly kept fighting and planning to take down SoulClan. On her few visits to the Twolegplace, under Birchstarβs watchful gaze, she had spotted Phoenix in the corner of her sight, lurking in the shadows. The clan cats rarely took notice to rogues or the occasional admiring kittypets, especially if they stayed out of their way.
Sheβd found that after the battle, she couldnβt move as quickly, she couldnβt train or hunt all day like before. Often enough, the white tabby found herself out of breathe or just too tired and exhausted to keep training, usually retreated to the quiet and reclusive nursery. Larkfeather found her heart empty, there was almost nothing keeping her going. Her love for Whisperheart pained her, she often would gaze around the clan hopelessly thinking that her rebels would fail. Regardless, Larkfeather continuously went on, taking life one day at a time.
Sheβd begun to completely lose hope until one day, less than a moon after the raid, Phoenix surprised her one evening while she was hunting in a nearby Twoleg garden with news. βYou wanted an advantage, Iβve possibly found one. We must go now though,β His eyes were dark with worry, but said nothing else as he trotted farther into the Twolegplace.
Startled by his sudden appearance, but having no other choice to follow, ran to catch up with him. The sky had begun to darken as the two moved swiftly throughout the Twolegplace, as Larkfeather surprisingly was thankful for Birchstarβs training.
They moved swiftly throughout the Twolegplace. He stopped in a dark alley, waving his tail to stop her behind him. Phoenix stood, head held high, meowed quietly,βWe need a word with you.β
Within mere moments, a massive gray and white tom padded into the dusklight. His eyes pierced the shadows, a bright vivid yellow in the likes she had never seen before. Several scars glinted in the pale light, the light just enough to see muscles rippling under the ragged fur. βPhoenix, my friend,β came a deep, gravely response.
βWe need a favor,β Phoenix padded forwards a couple steps, revealing Larkfeather behind him. Her head was cocked slightly, trying to get a better view of the strange rogue.
βFavor for you, favor for me,β the tom replied, shifting his eyes to match hers. The yellow pools reflected nothing, completely expressionless.
βPlease, Ren, this is between you and me,β Phoenix released an exasperated sigh. He glanced at Larkfeather for a heartbeat before growling,βShe is not apart of any βfavorβ.β
The gray tom stepped forward, meeting Phoenix nose to nose. For second, his gaze switched to the ginger tomsβ scar, but made no comment in reference to it,βItβs Renegade to you.β Ren hissed quietly, ears flattening against his head. There was a strange, unspecified pain seething in every word spoken by the rogue.
βRegardless of what you think of me, yourβ¦ expertise is needed.β Despite Renegadeβs aggressive demeanor, Phoenix remained unexpectedly calm. The only sign of emotion was a clenched jaw and a few wrinkles revealed by the scar.
βHa!β The battered tom snorted, circling Phoenix so closely their flanks touched. The ginger tom visibly flinched and swang his head to avoid Renegadeβs accusing glare, but otherwise remained where he stood. βNow, after everything, you come crawling back!β Larkfeather couldβve sworn she saw a hint of torturing jealousy. βYou sided with V and Canary, our enemies! Lock was murdered, our home destroyed, what makes you think I will willingly help you?β There was genuine hurt embedded in his voice as he stopped, his face a whisker's length away from Phoenix.
βThis isnβt the time or place Ren.β The ginger tom replied softly, touching his nose to the angered tomsβ,βThis is bigger than the two of us. Put our past behind us.β
Renegade jerked away, stepping back. He shook his head, letting out a heavy sigh,βIn time, my friend.β His yellow gaze once again shifted to the Clan cat,βWhy do you need my help?β There was a strange tightness in Renegades voice.
βI assume youβve heard of the group of cats living the Twolegplace, they call themselves SoulClan?β It was Larkfeather that spoke in hopes of breaking the tension between the two toms.
βI have.β
βI am one of the leaders of the cats rebelling against them, we need an advantage. We canβt overthrow Birchstar if we know the same fighting moves as his warriors, I assume that you have some sort of edge if Phoenix brought me to you.β She replied, getting to the point quickly. Theyβd be here all night if they continued to quarrel.
βWhat Phoenix here never told you was that we were both killers, murdering whomever our leader told us to,β he meowed nonchalantly, oddly out of context.βPhoenix here had morality problems and sided with some vigilantes.β Renegadeβs voice wavered,βBut, nonetheless, I shall help you. We will to extreme training nightly, starting tomorrow. Bring as many as you like, but I warn you, my training wonβt be easy. I fight to kill.β He warned, shifting his fierce gaze to Phoenix,βSome wonβt be able to go through with it.β
βIt wonβt be a problem.β She murmured softly, a twinge of regret hidden in her meow. Phoenix rested his tail on her shoulder, but said nothing to comfort her.
Renegade eyesβ narrowed, curious, but didnβt press Larkfeather about it,βI need to meet all of your allies, so I know whom not to kill.β
βYouβre fighting with us?β Phoenix questioned, surprise thick in his voice. He took of steps forwards, head tilted in curiosity, βWhat do you have to gain?β
βPlease, Phoenix, you know me well enough to not bother with this silly questions. Whatβs greater than a favor from a Clan cat? Skilled in battle, hunting, imagine the possibilities!β He replied, his meow sharp with enthusiasm.
Regardless of whatever favor he would request, Larkfeather was grateful, his assistance was necessary to defeat Birchstar. βThank you Renegade.β She dipped her head to him in gratitude.
βThank me when Birchstar is dead and your allies are free,β he responded grimly,βThis is no easy task. Cats will die, successful or not.β
βI think itβs time for us to go.β Phoenix meowed, glancing at the moon, which was near itβs peak. The ginger tom began to walk away, casting a longing look over his shoulder at Renegade. The pale moonlight shined on the brilliant yellow gaze that followed Phoenix as he left, one that resembled remorse, possibly regret.
Larkfeather padded after Phoenix after meowing a quick good-bye to the gray rogue. She was almost out of the alley when Renegade bounded up next to her,βI forget to say congratulations.β The white tabby visibly flinched, but refused to give him the satisfaction of a response. She bounded after her ginger friend, heart pounding hard against her chest.
Chapter Fourteen
βIf you think you canβt keep fighting, youβre wrong! Never stop, keep pushing yourself!β Renegade hissed in the face of an exhausted apprentice. Training within the recent moon had proved exhausting, not only for Larkfeather, but for all of the rebels. The rogue had shown violent and cruel in his training tactics and had no trouble pushing them to their limits, knowing that so many lives depended on his training.
She grumbled some choice words directed at the gray tom, but once more, threw herself at Phoenix. The ginger tom ducked, swerving around to meet her. The light blue apprentice slid underneath him, tucking her nose under his foot, tripping Phoenix. As soon as he hit the ground, she pressed her paw against his neck.
βGood,β Ren meowed,βIf this was a real fight, tear at the shoulder or throat. Shoulders will immobilize them, whereas slicing the throat is, well, more permanent.β He traced a pathways with an extended claw on Phoenixβs shoulder. βIf you claw here, youβll do the most damage.β
Phoenix waited a moment for Renegade to turn to discuss something with Snowpaw, who had asked a question regarding some move she was struggling with. As soon as his back was turned, the ginger tom leaped, attaching himself to the gray tomβs back. Surprised, Renegade yelped before sinking to the ground. His body went into a false limp, which Phoenix was expected as he unsheathed his claws and placed a paw on the base of his neck,βNever turn your back on an enemy.β He meowed to the shocked group.
Ren growled something quietly to Phoenix, shoving the ginger tom off of him. The scarred cat sulked off to the shadows to sit and talk to several rogues that was observing from top of a large, hollow container.
βKeep in mind that these SoulClan warriors are following that bloodthirsty fox heart,β Renegade meowed, turning away so his back purposefully faced Phoenix. βThey wonβt be going easy on any cat. Ignore that warrior code of yours. If you donβt kill, they will.β After those words, he resumed training again, sparing with Snowpaw and Firepaw.
Larkfeather observed, laying against the cool stone wall of a Twoleg structure a cool newleaf midday. She no longer had the stamina to train with Renegade, but often watched the training commence. Between maintaining her role as Whisperhearts mate and covering up her pregnancy, she was exhausted by day's end.
Standing next to her was several of Phoenixβs rogue friends, none of which Renegade was too happy to see. Their frequent arguments become heated quickly, until Ripplestreak told them to get over it and that these rogues were a welcomed addition.
Their rogue allies, Korra, Canary, and Shado, were certainly a surprise in their own respect. Canary, small for even a she-cat, was quick, unquestionably ruthless and had no problem holding her own in training sessions with Phoenix. Korra and Shado fought well together, even defeating both Phoenix and Renegade in a two on two fight.
βLarkfeather!β A panicked meow started the white tabby out of daydreaming. Ripplestreak stood in front of her, sides heaving as he took in air rapidly,βBirchstar plans on attacking IceClan again.β
βWhat?!β She exclaimed, getting to her paws. It hadnβt been too long since their last raid nearly two moons ago. βWhy not either of the other Clans?β
βBirchstar wants IceClan territory, claiming that SoulClan has become too big for our own territory. He came to me, asking if I would lead one of two small patrols to slip into camp tomorrow night and kill the deputy, medicine cats and Gorsestar. It would weaken IceClan to a point of collapse Larkfeather,β He shook his head in dismay, βThere isnβt much we can do.β
She thought for a moment, taking in this information. βThere is only one thing we can do.β Larkfeather glanced at Phoenix, who was now chatting with Korra under the scornful gaze of Renagade. She jerked her head up when they met eyes, signalling for the ginger tom to come over. He excused himself from the conversation, trotting over to the two cats.
βWe move the attack to tonight,β Larkfeather meowed, her voice quiet and strained,βAs soon as the moon hits its peak, we meet behind the nursery and go in together.β
Ripplestreak and Phoenix exchanged a concerned glance, with Ripplestreak speaking up,βLetβs not be rashβ¦β Larkfeather narrowed her eyes, but waited for him to continue speaking,βDonβt you want to wait until after you have your kits? I know you care for your Clan, but is it really worth risking so many lives?β
βThis is my Clan we are risking, my Clanmates! They are my kits, my life, and my decision. Our attack will commence tonight.β She growled, ears flattening against her skull.
βWe will be there, ready to fight,β Phoenix promised,βGo back to camp, rest.β The ginger tom padded over to Korra and Shado, explaining the situation to them. The four rogues, reluctantly followed by Ren, said a quick goodbye to Ripplestreak and Larkfeater and disappeared quickly within the Twolegplace.
The SoulClan warriors cautiously made their way make to camp. Snowpaw attempted to cheer up Larkfeather, whom had resumed a quiet and retreated desposition as they made their way home.
βWhere have you been?β A worried Whisperheart appeared almost instantly when they entered camp. She lifted her head, bringing his attention to the pigeon clamped in her jaws. Ripplestreak pushed passed the two, heading over immediately to Riverstripe and Jayfoot.
He led her to a shaded spot next to the nursery where they would often sit and relax after long training days. Lark feather dropped the pidgeon at his paws, laying down next to him, paws tucked tightly underneath her.
Whisperheart laid close, pressing his flank into hers. He nosed the pigeon to her, but she pushed it away, mumbling,βIβm not hungry right now.β In truth, sheβd eaten more than her share before the training with Renegade.
Night approached quickly, enfolding the camp in the quiet snores of warriors. Whisperheart had left her when Birchstar summoned both him and Ripplestreak to his den for what felt like moons ago. Whisperheart ignored her as he headed straight for the warriors den, Ripplestreak trotting over to her, face grim. βHe wants us to capture any and all IceClan warriors whenever they fall. We are to kill not only your brother, whom Gorsestar promoted as deputy, but Willowcreek, the other medicine cat, Redsky I think, and obviously Gorsestar. Thatβs every leadership position, Larkfeather, IceClan will crumble if we arenβt successful tonight.β The brown and white tabby tom avoided her piercing blue gaze, shifting his eyes to stare at his paws.
βThen we will be successful in taking down Birchstar and SoulClan,β she muttered, getting to her paws,βCome. The others will be gathering soon enough.β Larkfeather ducked into the nursery, followed closely by Ripplestreak.
Inside sat Jayfoot, talking strategy with Pinefrost. Skypaw was playing with the kits, struggling to stay on her paws from their weight. Laughing next to her was Snowpaw and Firepaw, not even attempting to assist the blue she-cat.
βFirepaw, go get your brother,β Leafsky murmured to the apprentice,βGo fast and quietly, donβt be seen.β The ginger tom nodded, darting out of the get Foxpaw.
Larkfeather padded over to Skypaw, amused by the bundles of fluff that had tussled her to the ground. βWhen Firepaw gets back, you four apprentices are to go to IceClan immediately with the kits. Tell Gorsestar, heβs the dark brown tabby that lives in the den at the top of the rock, follow Jayfoots scent, he lined a trail earlier for you.β
She nodded briskly, going back to calm down the bouncing bundles,βHush little ones, weβre returning homeβ¦β Skypaw gave each kit a comforting lick. The dark blue-gray she cat handled the kits well, always falling victim to their games and playful spirits.
Pebbleshine and Leafsky exchanged a reassured glance.
βI hope we arenβt late.β While the calm remark initially surprised her, she was relieved that it was Phoenix, leaping down from a cracked window into the nursery. Following closely was Canary, Korra, Shado, and a very serious looking Renegade.
βWe will wait for the rest of the warriors, it would be too suspicious for every rebel to leave at once.β Ripplestreak meowed, dipping his head respectfully to Renegade. He settled down next to the scarred gray tom and began to discuss strategy.
Firepaw appeared moments later, Foxpaw at his side. Behind him came Whiteshadow, a white tom with light black stripes, and Riverstripe. She headed over to Ripplestreak, looking a little nervous. Pebbleshine met up with the two apprentices, catching them up quickly on their mission. Courage shined in the apprentices eyes showing that they took their mission as seriously as they should have.
βSnowpaw! Over here!β The young ginger patched white she-cat had just padded into the den. Leafsky called over to the young cat. She quickly explained to Snowpaw what she and the other apprentices were doing before sending off the four apprentices. There was great concern in her gaze as she watched her kits
Larkfeather sat in a corner, alone. She watched quietly for a few moments before she was joined by Phoenix. The scarred tom sat next to her, leaning against her in attempt to comfort the worried she-cat. βWe can win, have confidence in yourself, and us,β he gave her a comforting lick on her cheek,βNo matter what happens tomorrow. No matter what we have to do to win, itβll be worth it. Think of all the lives lost because of Birchstar.β
Even though her ginger friend tried to be comforting, it didnβt help.The two cats sat in silence, watching as cats, one by one, crept into the nursery. The rotted wooden den quickly filled with the rebels, becoming crowded. Larkfeather slipped through the crowd, standing tall in the middle of the area.
She cleared her voice, calling attention to herself. The group of cats hushed, all turning to her.
βMy friends, my allies, I know this battle comes of little notice, but I could not allow for IceClan to be destroyed. I must thank Renegade for training, we couldnβt have done this without his training. As well as Phoenix and his friends, Canary, Korra, and Shado, thank you for joining us.β The rebelling cats murmured graciously to the rogues. They had nothing to gain by aiding Larkfeather and her cats. βJayfoot, Leafsky, Tinyshell youβre in charge of entrance. Make sure no cat gets out until someone announces retreat, we canβt have SoulClan fleeing to the Yard,β The Yard was a Twoleg trash heap that was SoulClanβs meeting place in case of any attack that caused them to scatter, βPebblefern, Silverflash, stay to the shadows. If a SoulClan warrior is going for the kill, stop it. Only come out if someone needs help, stay unseen. Everyone else, itβs a free for all.β Larkfeather meowed, her voice barely loud enough for every cat to hear.
Larkfeather pushed her way through the crowd, standing at the entrance. She took a long,
last glance at the peaceful camp before panic would enfold. Larkfeather took a deep breath, raised her muzzle to the sky, yowling,βAttack!β
Her first goal was to disable Whisperheart, but when she ran into the warrior den, where every cat was scrambling to get to their paws and out of the den, she didnβt see him.
She was shoved out of the den by a wave of cats, with not a single one aware of what was going on. Larkfeather stood at the entrance of the warrior, watching as her rebels clashed with the SoulClan warriors. It felt like her limbs were embedded into the ground like tree stumps. She tried to move, she wanted to, but she remained still, frozen.
Renegade appeared out of nowhere, already suffering a nasty shoulder wound. βLarkfeather! Fight! Now!β He hissed viciously into her ear as he took off, leaping onto the back of a panicked Shinenose.
The she-cat gave herself a few good shakes, unsheathed her claws, and leapt into battle. Dustspeckle was ruthlessly jabbing at Pinefrost, his hindlegs pummeling her belly ruthlessly. Bunching her shoulders, the white tabby barreled into his flank, head first. He skidded a couple of tail-lengths away, winded. Pine frost disappeared farther into the battle, hopefully in good enough condition to keep fighting.
He staggered to his paws, gaze blazing with ferocity and hatred. Larkfeather narrowed her eyes and launched herself at Dustspeckle before he could get his breathe back. She attached herself to his back, digging her claws into his back. The speckled tom shook himself violently in attempts to get her off. He rolled onto the ground, crushing her underneath his weight. Struggling to breathe, she released him. Dustspeckle immediately got to his paws and clawed at her face. She jerked her face back, but not before scoring his claws down her cheek.
The white tabby struggled to her paws, but Dustspeckle smacked her hard in the head. Larkfeather hit the ground with a solid thud, winded. The SoulClan warrior pressed his claws into her neck, standing over her. He bent down, hissing in her face,βIβm not surprised, traitorous fox-heart!β
Before he could do anymore harm, a feathery shadow flung Dustspeckle off of Larkfeather. As she managed to get to her paws, she realized it was Shado and Korra that were now taking turns batting at the speckled tom.
βHelp!β A yelp sounded near by. She whirled around, spotting Riverstripe being ripped to shreds by Thundersmoke and Cloudwhisker. The ginger tom was nipping at her paws as Cloudwhisker scored his claws at her flank. Larkfeather could see that the pretty tuxedo she-cat couldnβt last much longer, she could hardly stand.
βGet off her!β Larkfeather snarled, facing Thundersmoke. He seemed realitevly surprised of her attacking, hardly flinching when she slashed at his face. It was too late, by the time he jerked back his face with a yowl of pain, blood was running heavy from where she had wounded him. Deep scratches scorned the left side of his face, streaming with blood. It would be unlikely that he would ever see again out of his left eye again. The ginger tom gasped, hurt flashing in his pale green eye before scrabbling up the fence.
The white tabby backed away, guilt twisting in her gut as she searched for Whisperheart. Panic gripped her belly when she finally saw him, digging mercilessly at Phoenixβs stomachl
Larkfeather swiftly moved around the fighting cats to get to Whisperheart. He threw the ginger tom to the ground, sinking his claws into his chest. He leaned back to tear fatally at his exposed belly.
Her stomach sank. βNo!β She screeched, leaping the final distance. He turned, surprise flashing through his gaze, quickly followed by betrayal and pain as he realized that she wasnβt coming to aid him, but the rogue he was killing. Larkfeather hadnβt expected him to turn, she had fatally misjudged the distance for her leap.
Instead of tackling him, her claws sank into his neck. He fell to the ground with a soft thud. She let out a sharp gasp in horror. Larkfeather immediately sheathed her claws, her heart plunged as blood gushed from where her claws had sunk into his throat. A sicking, dark puddle was already forming around the ginger and white tom.
Whisperheart lay at her paws, bleeding out. He gasped for air, trying to speak,βWhyβ¦β Was the only word he could say, muttering it several times to try and convince himself that this wasnβt happening.
βI canβt raise our kits in a clan thatβs built off of murder and thieves,β she whispered softly, sinking to the ground next to him,βI wonβt be sorry for this uprising, but you were never meant to dieβ¦β
βKitsβ¦?β He coughed, sides faintly rising. The puddle of blood around him expanded with every breathe.
βYes, my love, kits.β Larkfeather murmured, touching her nose to his forehead. Her throat was tight with grief as she hopelessly watched as the life drained from his eyes. Her eyes tried desperately memorized everything about Whisperheartβs face as she tried to absorb everything. Every detail, how his eyes lit up when he saw her, how his soft, fluffy ginger fur faded into the white splotches, how calm and level headed he always was. She shut her eyes, trying to force out the outside world, attempting to hang on to the last image she had of Whisperheart happy.
βWhat have you done?β Came a roar that froze the fighting completely. All eyes turned to Birchstar, who stood several fox-lengths away, eyes blazing. He saw Whisperhearts body beside her, βMy sonβ¦β
He released an enraged yowl, hurling himself at her. Before Larkfeather could react, Renegade slipped out if the crowd, meeting Birchstar head on.
Birchstarβs eyes were slit with rage as he merciless tore at Renegadeβs already scruffy and thin fur. Renegadeβs pure skill evenly matched against the enraged and grieving tom, matching the battering with an even more brutal one of his own, displaying a remarkably calm demeanor for such a vicious fight.
Larkfeather watched, intrigued by the fight, as did every other cat. Renegade smacked Birchstar with a well aimed paw to the head, briefly knocking the breath out of him. Birchstar staggered, his fur matted thickly with blood. He breathed heavily, looking as if he was barely able to stand. Renegade pounced, aiming to attach himself onto the SoulClan leaderβs back. All it takes is a single move, placed perfectly to take out even the most skilled warrior.
In the blink of an eye, Birchstar was standing over a crumbled gray mass. Blood was everywhere, covering any sign of white. And so, the SoulClan stood proudly, eyes bright with triumphant.
Within a mere couple of heartbeats, a fiery flash flew over Larkfeather. Phoenix dug his claws into Birchstars shoulders, throwing him on the ground.
His eyes were flickering, flaming pits of anger. She hardly recognized the pacifistic tom, taken by complete surprise when slashed at Birchstars throat.
The life drained from Birchstars body rapidly. He had no time to say anything, only his eyes were fixated on Larkfeather. She glanced down at Whisperheart, realizing with a sinking feeling that he was gone. βMay StarClan light your path.β She murmured, giving her mate a final lick on the forehead.
Larkfeather signaled with her tail for Ripplestreak to take over. Her throat tightened when she looking up, seeing Phoenix sitting over Renegade. His muzzle was buried in Renegades blood-matted fur. She padded over to Phoenix, sitting down next to her friend as they say with Renegade during his last moments.
βIβm sorry you had to kill himβ¦β Renegade murmured weakly, giving Phoenix'sβ nose a lick before his body shook with his last breath.
βAnything for you, my friend.β Phoenix whispered back, sinking down next to Renegades body,βGoodbye my friend.β He licked his eyelids shut, as if reassuring himself that his old friend wasnβt truly gone.
Chapter Fifteen
Once they had chased off all of Birchstarβs warriors with an honest threat to kill if any of them were caught in Clan territory again, Larkfeather and Ripplestreak gathered the survivors of the rebellion. There was not a single cat that wasnβt injured, very few of them were able to stand on all four legs. It was certainly a close battle, if it hadnβt been for Renegade, they would have certainly lost.
βMy friends, my rebels, we have succeeded. Birchstar is dead, his warriors scattered. We were successful,β Ripplestreak meowed as the wounded cats gathered around him. βWith success comes great loss. We must honor and remember our fallen, for they will live on in StarClan and our stories for moons to come. I give my fullest sympathy to friends and kin to Renegade,β he cast a kind glance at Phoenix, whom still had not moved from the gray tomβs body. βEchostream, Orchidwhisker, Pebblefern, Pinefrost, and Silverflash. They gave their lives to free us, and for that we are forever thankful.β He locked eyes with Larkfeather, whose gaze had fallen on Whisperheartβs body. A mourningful yowl erupted from the wounded cats, originated from Jayfoot. Ripplestreak let the cats mourn in silence for several moments, the quiet deafening to Larkfeather as her gaze remained focused on her dead mateβs body.
βWe must seek refuge whilst we recover, so gather yourselves, we will rest seek refuge in IceClan.β Ripplestreak meowed. He slipped through the crowd, finding Riverstripe. She struggled to meet him, but barely stand on her own paws. The wounded she-cat slid onto the ground, wincing in pain.
βWhat am I going to do?β Larkfeather murmured quietly to herself as she was perched over Whisperhearts body. βI always loved you.β Her voice was sharp, it was painful to speak, her heart hollow. She glanced over at Phoenix, her own pained gaze reflected back at her. He looked lost, just as alone as she was.
The bloodied tabby got to her paws, padding over to Phoenix. βHey.β She meowed quietly, her voice strained. Larkfeather nudged the ginger tom to his paws,βWhat are you going to do now?β
βI donβt know.β Phoenix admitted, his eyes remained fixated on Renegadeβs body. It was evident that he was exhausted, his usually bright ginger coat dulled, matted with blood. His muscular body was marked with bloodied claw marks, including a severe wound running from high on his neck to lower flank.
βCome with us,β Larkfeather offered. βYou shouldnβt be alone right now.β She give Phoenix an affectionate lick on his cheek.
Canary, followed by Korra leaning on Shado for support, approached them. While they had already said their goodbyes to Renegade, they wanted to say their farewell to Phoenix. βWeβre leaving,β Canary murmured,βIβve got to get these two home.β Her gaze shifted to the young she-cats, great care and concern reflecting in her amber gaze.
Larkfeather dipped her head respectfully to Canary,βThank you, we couldnβt have done this without you.β Despite the fact that she had grown fond of the three rogue and would have loved for them to join them, she knew that they would never conform the the strict code of the Clans.
The pale ginger she-cat nodded back. βYouβll always be welcome in the Twolegplace,β she turned to Phoenix,βAre you coming with us?β
Phoenix looked between the two she-cats for a few moments before meowing,βI think Iβll stay with Larkfeather, at least for the time being.β
βWell, we will miss you,β She murmured, touching noses with the scarred tom briefly. The three she-cats slipped out of camp cautiously in efforts to not hurt Korra anymore than she already was.
As their friends returned to the Twolegplace, she turned to Phoenix. His eyes were hollow, glazed over as he was off in memory. Larkfeather sighed heavily, hoping that all the sacrifices she made would be worth it.
βCome, let us go.β Larkfeather meowed, nudging the ginger tom to his paws. She lead him to the trail of ragged and bloodied that were limping away from the destroyed SoulClan camp.
* * *
βWhat is this?β A tortoiseshell she-cat hissed at the entrance of IceClanβs camp. Her tail whipped in the air, fur bristling.
βWe seek refuge.β Ripplestreak meowed, pushing himself to the front of the group. He raised his head proudly, his fiery orange eyes calm. He returned her narrowed gaze, meowing politely,βPlease, let me at least speak to your leader. Surely Skypaw warned you?β
Her eyes widened with recognition of the name, reluctantly meowing,βFine. Only you or whomever is in charge can enter.β She padded through the entrance, ears flattened. There was a slight limp in her step, caused by what the lowering moon revealed to be a thick scar across her shoulders.
βRiverstripe, keep an eye on everyone,β Ripplestreak murmured to the black tuxedo she-cat next to him. He glanced at Larkfeather, jerking his head towards the entrance. She opened her jaws to protest, but realized that there would be no point in arguing with him.
She sulked after Ripplestreak, heading into IceClan camp, tail dragging in the grass. Outside of Gorsestarβs den stood Flystream, whom was whispering to Darkfrost. He lifted his head at their approach, eyes blazing in hatred. βGo in.β He hissed, refusing to look at Larkfeather as she limped by.
βWelcomeβ¦β Gorsestar meowed, but trailed off when he saw Larkfeather enter his den. She felt a pang of pain in her heart, but didnβt confront him as she desired to. βHow can I assist you?β
Larkfeather found herself unable to speak, glancing at Ripplestreak for assistance. He gave her a slight nod to her and began to tell Gorsestar of their story. He quickly summoned up the mistreatment of the Clan cats, murder committed by Birchstar and his warriors, kidnapping, and the final downfall of SoulClan.
βI do not regret not sending assistance. My warriors need not to get harmed in your rebellion, though I am grateful that youβre successful. I must ask, why are you here? What do you want from IceClan?β His dark brown eyes revealed nothing as he spoke.
βWe ask for shelter,β Ripplestreak meowed simply,βWe have no medicine cat, no food, no where to go. We do humbly request that some of our warriors may join, or rejoin, IceClan.β
Gorsestar was quiet for what felt like moons. He had finally absorbed everything that Ripplestreak had told him, considering every option.
βI will grant you one moon of refuge. Any cat of your rebellion that can hunt will, after being treated. You will be responsible for feeding yourself, and will stay outside of camp in the root caves by the stream. Those sick and unable to hunt are allowed to stay and be treated by our medicine cats,β He paused for a moment, taking a deep breathe,βBut I will not accept any of our former warriors back. Our kits and apprentices are welcomed back with open paws, but those who have stayed with SoulClan for longer than three moons are not.β He made no attempt to hide the sorrow in his voice. Gorsestar glanced at Larkfeather, expected for her to complain, but she did not.
She blinked rapidly, taking by complete surprise. He wouldnβt even allow back Snowpaw and Foxpaw, or any cat for that matter. Larkfeatherβs heart sunk. The only thing she wanted was to raise her kits in IceClan, to finally be home. She even had a little hope of redeeming herself to Darkfrost, that they could be a small and broken family. Now, with his banishment of the SoulClan cats, she had nowhere to go. In one moon, sheβd be clanless, her only option to become a rogue.
βI will send Darkfrost, Redsky, and Hawkfire to assist in getting your cats comfortable.β Gorsestar meowed, resting his head on his paws.
Ripplestreak nodded respectfully, backing out of the den wordlessly. She hesitated to leave, desperately wanting to talk to him. Larkfeather turned to leave, but stopped when she heard Gorsestar speak.
βYouβre just like her,β Gorsestar rumbled, lifting his head slightly,βSo determined, strong, loyal.β As he spoke, she froze, her limbs locking up as she was unable to move. βI found her body, you know. She was mutilated, there was hardly any of her beautiful white fur left. Her throat slashed, as was her belly and face. Hiding in a nearby tree stump were three, beautiful kits. I couldnβt take all three, you were too small to walk on your ownβ¦ When I came back for the last, FireClan scent was everywhere. Her body and the other kit was gone.β
βWhat was her name?β Larkfeather forced a whisper, shutting her eyes as she tried to force out the nightmares that kept coming back. He had finally confirmed her suspicions, that he was her and Darkfrostβs father.
βWindecho was the love of my life, only it was misfortune she was a FireClan cat. Nonetheless, I loved her so, even when I became leader. I watched from afar, sharing longing looks, but it was never good enough.β His voice softened as he was overcome with grief, not only for his dead mate but for his missing kit.
The den was filled with an awkward silence as she processed everything. She was not, in fact, a rogue's kit, but had Clanblood coursing through her, regardless of origin. Larkfeather made her way out of the den, feeling ever so slightly better, following Ripplestreak out of IceClan camp closely.
Chapter Sixteen
βHow dare you betray us?β A ragged brown tom snarled in her face. Redskyβs ears were flat back, eyes wide in fright. She was pressed against a tree, unable to move. She was surrounded by starry cats, but only the brown tom was fuming. βYou are a medicine cat! We make sacrifices! We can not have mates or kits!β
The red tabby shook in fear, worried at what StarClan would do to her. Her heart pounded hard against her chest, she found it hard to breathe,βPleaseβ¦ It wasnβt on purposeβ¦β Redsky whimpered.
βEnough,β Came a meow that silenced the snarling tom from nearby bush. A bright orange she-cat with stars clinging to her stripes shoved the tom away, offering Redsky a kind look.
βExcuse Foxes-feet, heβs angry for personal reasons.β She meowed calmly, her amber gaze examining the red tabby. The harsh whispering from the surrounding cats were deafening. She wasnβt sure if this was a confrontation to the concerning news Willowcreek had told her earlier in the morning, that these cats were deciding to strip her of her medicine cat status.
βI do suppose I must introduce ourselves, yes?β the ginger she-cat meowed,βI am Bright Flare, founder of FireClan. Foxes-feet was the first medicine cat in all of the Clans, and the reason that medicine cats should not take mates. Thatβs Glacier Skies, Soft Voice,β Bright Flare meowed, pointing her tail to the light gray cats watching through narrowed eyes,βThe first IceClan leaders, and over there are Quake and Golden Heart, the original EarthClan cats.β
As she introduced the faded starry cats, Redsky began to relax. They werenβt apparent in their kindness, Glacier Skies met her with a calm, almost sympathetic gaze, and Golden Heart gave a reassuring nod.
βStarClan has been made aware of what occurs in the Clans. The rejecting of their former Clanmates concerns us all, that none of our Clans will accept the SoulClan warriors. Weβve come to a decision that wonβt just affect you, but all the cats of the Clans,β she paused glancing at her comrades, whom all meowed in agreement,βSoulClan shall become their own. Three become four, led by one who is alone in their own right, brightened by a resurrected fire, comforted by a constant ripple. Struggle they will, but advised by you, Redsky, you will be AirClansβ first medicine cat.β
The obscure prophecy echoed in her ears, the wind sucked out from her lungs. It took her several heartbeats to realize that this meant, that she had to leave Darkfrost and IceClan. βIs this a punishment?β She murmured, fighting back tears.
βYes and no, while your situation is unfortunate, and I personally regret to break up a family, you are the only medicine cat that can help bring AirClan to a recognized Clan.β Bright Flare meowed softly, honestly meaning her words.
βDo the other leaders and medicine cats know?β Redsky mumbled her voice trembling. She was relatively young to be a sole medicine cat, she had never run a Clan before alone, and now was the worst time. In a couple moons, sheβd have to take care of her kits alone, without their father and be the only medicine cat of a new Clan.
βThe medicine cats are being told now, they shall pass on the message to their leaders.β Glacier Skies spoke, his voice surprisingly soothing,βDo not worry, we cannot force Darkfrost so stay in IceClan. It is his choice, IceClan, or you. I am terribly sorry that you must go through this, but, we have rules for a reason.β He did not mean to cause Redsky guilt and pain, she knew Darkfrost well enough to know that he would choose IceClan over her.
βOnce a changeling, forever alone, comforted by a fallen flame, calmed by the ripples, must be strong to buff the new from the rising winds of change.β Foxes-feet growled, reminding her that she now has to find the leader and its deputy and hope that they will lead this new Clan strongly.
Without any warning, she was slammed into the waking world. The other medicine cats had already awoken, whispering quietly, all their gazes turned to Redsky when she stirred. The other medicine cats only said a quick good-bye and good-luck before slipping out of the Crystal Cavern, leaving her and Willowcreek alone. Her former mentor said nothing to her as they left the root-cave in silence.
She must knowβ¦ Right? Red sky thought, not wanting to confront Willowcreek. The constant silence being broken by the crickets and frogs, she couldnβt take it,βAm I supposed to feel guilty? Sorry? I donβt want to leave IceClan! I didnβt plan on having kits!β She tried to keep calm, but her meow raised into a wail.
βHush, I am not mad,β Willowcreek scolded, her eyes remaining on the path ahead. βThis is your destiny now, you must tell Darkfrost and Gorsestar, not I.β
Redsky shifted her gaze to her paws, completely unsure of how to tell Darkfrost. There was no way she could ask him, he couldnβt leave even if he wanted to. He had responsibility as deputy and a newfound hatred for his sister.
It took ages, at least how it felt to Redsky, for the medicine cats to get back to camp. The sun had just peaked through the trees, meaning that most of the warriors were up at heading on patrol. Darkfrost was sending out the last hunting patrol when she padded up to him, followed by Willowcreek. βWe need to talk, Gorsestar too.β She murmured softly, her stomach lurching at the panic that flashed through his eyes. He simply nodded, leading them to Gorsestarβs den.
The leader, for once, was actually awake, grooming himself. The serious look on Redsky and Willowcreekβs face concerned him,βWhat is it? What did StarClan say?β
Willowcreek glanced at Redsky, raising her head slightly, gesturing for her to speak. Redsky, her head held high and recited what StarClan had told her. βI was given a prophecy that I alone must complete,β she glanced at Darkfrost, whose eyes had gone dark with worry and concern, βI am to be the medicine cat of a new Clan, AirClan, made up of the former SoulClan cats.β
Both Gorsestar and Darkfrost remained quiet. They exchanged surprised looks, both were unsure of how to react. βWho knows?β Gorsestar meowed, curling his tail around his paws.
βThe other clans know of the arrival of AirClan, but know not whom leads. Neither do I, but this prophecy that was given must help in someway.β
βWhat do you suggest we do?β He asked quietly, in the midst of thought,βThis is a rather vague prophecy, with little guidance from StarClan.β His gaze had shifted to his paws, eyes clouded over in thought.
Redsky was surprised by Gorsestarβs faith in her, especially since she was such a young and inexperienced medicine cat. She hesitated for a few heartbeats, considering their options,βWe let them stay and rest until they are healed enough to go home. I will stay with them to try and find their leader.β Her gaze shifted to Darkfrost, her heart weighed down by sadness that sheβd have to leave him.
The IceClan leader nodded,βAirClan can stay for however long that is needed, I will send a couple warriors to assist in rebuilding for a couple of sunrises when they return home.β He flicked his tail, motioning for them to leave him.
Willowcreek quetly padded out of the den, followed closely by Redsky and Darkfrost. She left alone and headed out to the forest, likely to find herbs.
The two cats sat in silence for a while as the Clan continued to function. Hunting patrols brought back prey, border patrols came back with no news. Finally, Darkfrost spoke,βWhen were you going to tell me?β
Redsky attempted to protest, stuttering,βI-I only found out last n-n-nightβ¦β Her ears flattened, she shrank, awaiting for his anger to boil over.
Surprisingly, Darkfrostsβ tone softened,βNot about the prophecy. Youβre pregnant, yes?β He wrapped his tail around her tightly, giving her head a reassuring lick.
Redsky blinked rapidly, bewildered that heβd found out,βI am so sorryβ¦β Guilt burrowed into her heart, she struggled to breathe. Now that Darkfrost could finally have a family, StarClan ripped them apart.
He ran his muzzle under her chin, no longer caring to hide his affection for her,βDonβt apologize. It is not your fault that StarClan is punishing you by sending you away. I would come if I couldβ¦β Darkfrost trailed off, rubbing his head against hers.
βI was told by a StarClan cat that you were welcome to come to AirClan, that we would not be punished,β Redsky murmured, still remaining reserved to avoid a sense of false hope.
What followed was a painful, deafening silence as it felt like moons for Darkfrost to respond. There was nothing more that she wanted than to have him in AirClan where they could raise their kits, but Redsky honestly doubted that he would choose her over deputyship and IceClan.
βThen I will,β he replied suddenly, βWe can be a family.β Darkfrost glanced briefly at the leader's den,βIβll have to tell him though, heβll need a new deputy.β
Redsky remained sitting, stunned that he had actually chosen her. Darkfrost got to his white paws, gave her a quick lick on the cheek, and disappeared into Gorsestarβs den.
She sat alone for a little while, soaking in every detail of the camp. Redsky observed her Clanmates, remorse heavy throughout her body, wanting nothing more than to bask in this moment forever. She was finally happy, she could be with Darkfrost and their kits, sheβd have the responsibility of a true medicine cat, and StarClan trusted her alone to raise AirClan.
Chapter Seventeen
βI will be raising our kits by myself.β The harsh words painfully echoed in his mind. A dark tabby was staring at his paws, hunched over with his eyes distant in memory.
βGorsestar?β He jolted back into focus, lifting his gaze to meet his sonβs dark, concerned eyes.
Darkfrost had just pushed through the thick ferns that disguised the entrance of his den. He shifted uncomfortably, nervously flicking his tail as his paws kneaded the ground.
βWhat?β Gorsestar grumbled, forcing his eyes away from Darkfrost. Every time he saw the dark tabby, he desperately wanted to tell him everything. Yet, every time, he found himself loss for words.
Darkfrost took a deep breath, forcing himself still. βI am leaving with Redsky.β There was nothing in his voice, it was calm and steady, confident.
The exhausted tom opened his jaws to respond, expecting to just say his regrets about a loyal warrior leaving, but instead, everything spilled out. How he met Windecho, becoming deputy, Tigertailβs death. Darkfrost just listened in silence in complete shock, his jaws gaping and eyes huge. He got to finding his beloved mate torn to shreds and the missing kit. βI never found out of that kit died, I wouldnβt be surprised if a FireClan killed it,β He hissed.
βYou knew for all this timeβ¦β Darkfrost snarled, his eyes lit with emotion,βAll the teasing! I worked my tail off to prove myself to the Clan! Larkpaw and I were completely alone! There is no reason for you to not have confessed!β
βI was a young, inexperienced cat that had the misfortune to being leader. There was no chance that any warrior would trust in me to lead them well if they knew that not only had their new leader had broken the warrior code by taken a mate in another Clan, and had kits.β He lashed his tail angrily, βI thought about telling you every sunrise, there was never a good time.β
Darkfrost whipped around, tearing out of the den. Gorsestar got to his paws, wanting to race after his son, but something held him back. He circled his nest several times before curling up in a tight ball. It took him awhile to sleep, furious at himself for how he had gone off of on Darkfrost. With shame still hot on throughout his fur, he dozed off.
Gorsestar awoke, standing upon a rolling hill. The grass lashed at his paws as a thin wind swirled around him. A low growl resonated in his throat as he realized where he was. Several fox-lengths away was an outcropping stone. He could almost see Tigertailβs broken body lying at the base.
Several other scents slammed over him strongly. He bristled, claws extending as he turned around, backing down when he saw that it was Larkfeather, Darkfrost, and another tom.
βWhere are weβ¦?β The tom meowed, glancing cautiously at Darkfrost and Gorsestar. The dark tabby took a step forwards to get a better look at the tom. He recgngized that he was one of the refuge leaders, but could also see that he shared Darkfrostβs strong build and pride demeanor. But he had a white blaze and chest that reminded him of Larkfeather and the endless curiosity.
βYou are dreaming.β An amused voice meowed from behind Gorsestar. The three young cats gasped, eyes fixated on what was behind him.
A squeal of joy escaped him when he caught the sweet scent that he knew as Windecho. She brushed against him as she joined the circle, stopping next to Gorsestar. He felt that her presence but not the soothing warmth against his fur.
The three young warriors were still standing, eyes wide in bewilderment. It was surprisingly not Larkfeather nor Darkfrost, but Ripplestreak that spoke. βWill someone tell me whatβs going on here?β His tone wasnβt unfriendly only curious.
βYou are my kits.β She meowed.
Ripplestreak bristled, eyes narrowed. βI have no parents,β he growled.
Windecho remained calm as Larkfeather and Darkfrost stood silently. Neither they nor Gorsestar knew what to say. Whilst he had known FireClan had done something with the third kit, he had never considered it was alive and well, let alone had turned into a wise and noble cat.
The beautiful white tabby purred reassuringly,βRipplestreak, that is understandable. After I was murdered, your father, Gorsestar, could only carry Larkfeather and Darkfrost. When he came back for you, there as FireClan stench everywhere, my body gone. We are all well aware of howβ¦ unwelcoming FireClan is to non Clancats, so Archstar taking you in was a grand surprise.β
He visibly relaxed as she explained what happened. It seemed that he had thought that he was abandoned by his parents and likely faced an unfriendly crowd growing up.
βIβm so proud of all you.β She murmured, her brilliant blue gaze shining,βDarkfrost, against everything thrown at you you kept strong. Courageous, stubborn, much like your father.β Windecho twined tails with Gorsestar,βLarkfeatherβ¦ were do I start? After everything youβve lost, you havenβt given up. You arenβt an ordinary warrior, my kit, you have so far to go.β She hinted with a wink. βRipplestreak, having no one to support and to lean on, have grown into a fine warrior, I couldnβt be happier.β
Darkfrost and Ripplestreak launched into questions. They asked anything that came to mind, like how they met, how life was in FireClan for her, how she died, what she named them, everything.
βAre our family cursed?β Lark feather meowed abruptly after sometime had passed. Her meow was sad and heavy, tinged with grief.
βIt seems so, doesnβt it?β Windecho sighed. βNone of us has had it easy, especially not you.β She hesitated to think for a moment,βNo. I do not believe we are. Loss and experience dealing with such tragedies make you strong, both emotionally and physically. You all are strong enough to handle the future.β
Suddenly, Windechoβs head swerved behind them, staring off into the forest as it someone called to her. She released a heavy sigh, flushed with grief and remorse,βI have to go.β
βNo, please, donβt! I need you.β Gorsestar begged desperately, digging his nose into her fur. It wasnβt warm, soothing, but chilly and airy. He knew, with a sinking feeling, that she wasnβt alive, only her spirit.
It didnβt help, she started to fade,βI love you.β Windecho murmured softly, touching her ghostly nose to Gorsestar before she disappeared completely from sight. Her lushes, sweet honey scent still lingered.
βWill you be okay?β Ripplestreak meowed awkwardly. He was now standing, looking rather skeptical and unsure of this situation.
βIβve suffered so many moons, haunted by the death of Tigertail and Windecho, it will be many moons until I join StarClans ranks. I have to be okay.β Gorsestar muttered partially to himself.
He looked from his paws up to see that Ripplestreak, Larkfeather, and Darkfrost had disappeared. The tabby tom was standing alone on the hillside feeling completely and utterly alone.
Chapter Eighteen
βThank you, Gorsestar, for everything. For sharing your territory, prey, herbs, we owe you so much,β Ripplestreak spoke not only to the IceClan leader, but to all of IceClan,βWe have recovered significantly and will be returning to our territory now. IceClan will always be welcomed in AirClan, now and for moons to come.β His voice was loud and prideful, with an authoritative tone.
Gorsestar and the newly appointed deputy Whitewolf were quietly conversing with Ripplestreak. Despite the reassurance that she had felt briefly from Windecho a couple of nights ago where she found out that Ripplestreak was her missing kin, Larkfeather still retreated into a deep depression. She refused to speak to anyone but Phoenix since they shared great loss and understood eachothers pain. When it became a known fact that she was pregnant with Whisperheartβs kits, some of the rebels treated her as a traitor.
She had become a shell of her former self, those who had looked at her for guidance and leadership now turned to Ripplestreak. Rarely speaking, her gaze remained fixated at nothing almost every moment of the day. She hardly ate, only Redskyβs coaxing would get her to eat a couple of morsels. At night, when woken by nightmares, sheβd wander around IceClan territory aimlessly. When occasionally running into night creatures, Larkfeather never hid. Often, she would curl up on a rock slate in the refuge, observing the owls whisking elegantly through the trees.
Larkfeather wasnβt alone in her grieving, Phoenix would frequently join her in sulking, just his company was enough to sustain her. She was surprised by the effect Renegadeβs death had on the ragged scarred tom, but she didnβt question it. Love is love, and the loss of one is destructive to the soul.
βAre you ready to go?β A soft, kind meow had awaken Larkfeathers deep thoughts. She blinked, focusing on the red tabby she-cat standing in front of her. At her paws were packages of herbs, with another bundle being carried by Darkfrost, whom was a couple of tail-lengths behind her. Larkfeather just gave a quick nodded and got to her paws, following the medicine cat out of IceClanβs camp.
The day had gone by quickly, Gorsestar had sent Flystream, Skypaw, and Blackspider to assist in fixing up the camp, at least enough for the new clan to sleep comfortably. The IceClan warriors had returned home at sundown after sharing food with the AirClan cats. Larkfeather was now curled up in a tight ball in the nursery, Redsky fast asleep next to her.
She had just finished a small squirrel that she had shared with Phoenix when a yawn escaped her. βI will leave you to sleep,β the ginger tom meowed quietly,βGoodnight.β He gave her a lick on the forehead before turning to leave.
βPlease stay,β she murmured, her voice high and tight,βI canβt be alone, not tonight. It is too soonβ¦β
Phoenix nodded, understanding completely. Larkfeather hadnβt gone back to the camp since that day, and neither had Phoenix. He laid down in front of her, sprawling across the floor, trying get comfortable.
Larkfeather closed her eyes in attempt to sleep. She struggled to sleep, unsure of when she actually fell asleep. What awaited for her was the same, repetitive nightmare where she saw herself leap, her claws scraping across Whisperheartsβ throat. She crumbled to the ground as he fell, crying out for him to hold on, that sheβd save him. But every nightmare was the same, she never succeeded. Larkfeather had to watch the light drain from his eyes nightly, constantly being stabbed in the heart was killing herl
She forced her eyes shut, reliving the same agonizing pain as the day she killed Whisperheart, shutting down completely in grief. The world went dark, and she expected to wake up in the AirClan nursery.
Instead, she was comforted by a familiar scent. Larkfeather forced her eyes opened pleasantly surprised to awaken to a brilliant field of flowers, with an endless array of colors.
βLarkfeather.β A quiet, husky voice murmured in her ear. She whipped her head around, coming face to face with Whisperheart. His white and ginger fur shone with the stars in his fur. His sea green eyes were a sparkling, bright with the love.
βYouβ¦ You are with StarClan?β She gasped, but she was so overrun with joy she pushed her nose under his jaw. Larkfeather soaked up his scent, rubbing against him, burying into his fur.
βYes, I suppose they deemed me worthy to walk their stars,β he purred,βI just really needed to see you.β Whisperheart twined his tail with hers.
βIβm glad you did,β She missed him desperately and hadnβt been sure whether or not he would be granted into StarClan. βI would have thought that you wouldβ¦β Larkfeather trailed off, forcing her gaze away as the guilt and sorrow resurfaced.
βHate you?β He finished, giving her ear a calming lick,βI never agreed with my father's tactics, I just didnβt have the guts to stand up to him,β Whisperheart confessed earnestly,βI could never stop loving you.β
Larkfeather purred, overjoyed,βThatβs what I needed to hearβ¦β Larkfeather nuzzled him, inhaling his scent,βYou donβt know how much Iβve missed you.β
βI have been watching you,β He murmured, his tone turning serious,βYouβve got to stay strong. I have always been there, how could I have not noticed youβre sulking? How depressed you have becomeβ¦ You arenβt okay.β
Larkfeather sighed, dropping her head,βHow am I supposed to raise our kits alone?β Her voice had a somber tone to it, hinted with loneliness.
βYou have Phoenix, yes? Ripplestreak too,β Whisperheart pointed out as he glanced around the field,βLook, Iβm not supposed to say anything butβ¦ StarClan is watching over you.β
βWhat?β She tilted her head, surprised at how sudden he had changed the topic and that StarClan was somehow involved. Larkfeather recalled that Windecho had hinted at it too, that StarClan for some reason had something planned for her. Whisperheart didnβt respond though, his gaze had become dark with worry.
βIβm sorry, I canβtβ¦ I have to go,β he began to fade, his eyes locking with hers,βStay strong, my love, I will always be watching.β
As soon as Whisperheart vanished, she was jolted awake. She blinked rapidly, trying to comprehend what all had happened. His scent still lingered, but only just a little, barely enough to even notice. Larkfeather soaked it in, closing her eyes to hang on to the image of his elated face. She felt okay for once, there wasnβt a single trace of the usual guilt worming itβs way through her stomach. For the first time since his death, there was an actual hope blossoming and she knew that everything would get better.
Beside her, Redsky stirred. Larkfeather opened up her eyes, realizing that dawn was approaching. She glanced over at Redsky, now realizing for the first time how far along the red tabby was in her pregnancy.
A small bit of concern wedged in her heart, Darkfrost had not forgiven her, nor likely would. To her surprise, he had let friendship grew between her and Redsky. She was able to push away the feeling with the reminder that she would become a mother and have a family, no matter how broken it actually was.
Her gaze drifted to her own belly, which showed heavy signs of kitting within the next moon. Larkfeather couldnβt help but think back to what Whisperheart had said, that he would always be there for her in spirit. She felt comforted, happy even, at knowledge that he still cared and had forgiven her for his death at her paws.
Chapter Nineteen
βPhoenix, take Riverstripe, Snowpaw, and Reedrunner hunting,β Ripplestreak meowed. He had forced his way to stand in the way of the entrance into the nursery. A small crowd had gathered in curiosity at the pained yowling coming from within. Inside, Larkfeather was going through the agonizing and slow process of birth, with the only cats inside being Jayfoot as comfort and Redsky to guide her. This was Redskyβs first in delivering kits, but Jayfoot had been there when his mate, Pebblefern, had given birth and been providing helpful insight and advice.
The scarred ginger tom lashed his tail, flattening his ears in a concerned manner and begged,βPlease, I have to be ther-β
βNo,β Ripplestreak shook his head,βwhat she could use is some nice, warm fresh kill. Besides, the nursery is only so big, and she has Jayfoot.β He was well aware of the Phoenix desperate need to be in there, her kitting wasnβt going smoothly. Larkfeather had started kitting early in the morning and was still struggling through midday.
βFine.β Phoenix grumbled, flicking his tail to signal for Riverstripe to follow. The pair quickly found Reedrunner and disappeared through the camp entrance.
βCan we hunt?β A young brown she-cat with orange patches circled his paws. Sitting a tail length away were her siblings, Willowkit and Stonekit, watching him with round eyes.
βNo.β He replied and turned to walk away. Cinderkit leaped in front of him, trying to block his path.
βExcuse me.β Ripplestreak meowed calmly,βBut you are hardly three moons old. None of are you big enough to defend yourselves from dogs or badgers. What would happen if Twolegs snatched you up? Other Clans now know we exist, they may try and test our borders, I canβt have some kits running around in the midst of a battle!β
Before she could say anything else, the patchy white tom bounded off to Nightshade. He gave him clear instructions to let no cat into the nursery, including the kits. The massive scruffy tom dipped his head and took post in front of the den.
Leaving Nightshade at the nursery, Ripplestreak searched for his own apprentice, Hawkpaw. The day after AirClan returned home, a kittypet had begged for the Clan to take Hawkpaw and his siblings, Flashpaw and Starlingpaw, and raise them to be warriors. It proved the risk to pay off, as the three young cats proved to be a great addition to the Clan.
Finally spotting his apprentice lazily stretched out underneath the shade of a tree, Ripplestreak trotted to give him his duties for the day.
* * *
βWhat are their names?β Phoenix sat closely to Larkfeather, leaning over to gaze at her kits. At her paws laid the remains of two mice that she had inhaled. Suckling hungrily at her belly were three kits, a petite orange she-cat with white dapples, a mostly white she-cat with some black stripes, and a ginger tabby tom.
Her eyes were full of love and hope for her little ones, βThe little she-kit is Dapplekit, the tom is Lionkit, and the white she-kit is Icekit.β Larkfeatherβs voice was quiet, almost at a whisper, to avoid waking up the kits.
βThey are beautiful,β Phoenix murmured, headbutting her affectionately,βWhisperheart would be proud.β He curled up closely to her belly to help keep the kits warm,βI will send Starlingpaw and Flashpaw to get feathers for you tomorrow.β
βThat would be niceβ¦β She meowed quietly as her eyes began to droop. Larkfeather rested her head on her paws, falling asleep almost immediately.
Phoenix released a relieved sigh, thinking, She is okay, her kits are okay, everything will get better. He gave one last affectionate look at the kits before laying his head on his paw and fell into a deep slumber.
It felt like only moments later when Phoenix was awoken by loud screeching. He leaped to his paws, fighting away the panic that flashed through every limb. The ginger tom slipped through the hole in the wall, almost smacking face first into Nightshade battering an even larger tabby tom.
Without reacting, he slid into his instinct and training, launching himself at the tabby tom. He tore at the tomβs fur ruthlessly, ignoring the yowls of pain. Phoenix only stopped when he heard the sorrowful yowl,βVinebreath!β He whipped around, eyes blazing, to see a russet ginger she-cat standing several fox-lengths away. She sped towards him but was interrupted by Ripplestreak, who barreled into her flank, tossing her off balance.
βGuard the nursery!β He snarled at Nightshade as he limped over to him. The white and black to immediately resumed his guarding position with his fur fluffed up all the way, making him look three times his size.
He watched for a few heartbeats as the russet she-cat briefly argued with Ripplestreak until the dark tabby tom threw himself at her. Deciding Ripplestreak could handle her himself, tore his gaze away, searching for a clanmate in need of assistance.
Phoenix threw himself back into battle, throwing off a gray tortoiseshell off of Skypaw. He dug his claws in her shoulders and tossed her a good couple of tail lengths. βFind Canary!β The ginger tom hissed in the blue she-catβs ear as she struggled to her paws. Skypaw gave him a quick nod and slipped through the battle and over the fence with ease.
The scarred tom searched for any of his fellow warriors that needed his aid, finding that Hawkpaw was defending a terrified Cinderkit against two advancing cats. Phoenix took off and slammed into one of advancing cats.
They tussled together for several heartbeats as Phoenix struggled to regain control. The other warrior was too strong compared to the scrawny ginger cat as Phoenix hit the ground hard, his belly exposed. Winded, he could do nothing as the other warrior mercilessly clawed at his belly. He let out a pained yowl and tried to fight back, but his strength as failing.
βYes!β The other warrior looked up briefly, cheering at something. Phoenix took advantage of the distraction and shoved his hind legs into the enemyβs gut, flinging the FireClan cat off. He staggered to his paws and glanced up to see the same russet ginger she-cat standing over a bloodied dark tabby mass.
βNo!β Riverstripe wailed and tried to push her way through to get to Ripplestreak. Jayfoot stood in her way, shaking his head at her. There was no way she could get to him without being attacked by one of the enemy cats.
βWe will disband this heartless bunch, once and for all!β The russet she-cat snarled,βGet the other one!β Her blazing amber gaze settled on the nursery, were Nightshade was barely standing on his paws. Blood trickled down from a nasty scratch over his face, his black and white fur now only gleamed red in the dawnlight.
A pretty white she-cat, her fur splattered in blood, padded over to Nightshade. She hardly had to lash out him before he sank to the ground, struggling to breath. βAdderwhisp, Batwing,β she meowed, jerking her head to the nursery,βIβve got this one covered.β She stood over Nightshade, her eyes blazing triumphantly.
Phoenix could do nothing but watch in horror as they dragged Larkfeather out from the nursery by the scruff. The onyx warrior, Batwing, tossed her at the russet she-catβs paws, his yellow eyes burning with hatred.
βAt least, the end of an era of pain, suffering, and thievery,β she hissed in the white tabbyβs ear as she circled the queen,βStarClan didnβt bless you, this isnβt a real clan. You will all face the punishment of betraying your Clan! Ripplestreak here did nothing to save Breezebeck. My son died for nothing! They could have returned! I wouldnβt have had to bury my own son who died in a battle that wasnβt even his to fight!β Her gaze rested on the dark tabby mass a couple of pawsteps away. He was breathing, but barely.
She was about to continue her cleansing justification when a loud, threatening yowl erupted from atop the fence. Balancing on the aged, chipped wood was four cats. Hope ignited throughout Phoenix when he recognized that not only had Korra, Shado and Canary had come to their aid, but someone else he hadnβt expected. Likely outweighing most of the cats fighting stood V, a massive dusky gray tom. Countless scars littered his pelt, likely spurred from the dark, determined gleam in his vivid green-blue eyes.
As soon as their paws hit the ground, the battle resumed, the attention striped from the russet she-cat. Phoenix darted throughout the brutal mass, forcing himself to ignore his clanmates cry of help, knowing that the ginger cat would undoubtedly kill Larkfeather and Ripplestreak.
She began to advance on Larkfeather, who made no attempt to stop her. She was crouched, terrified and unable to move. Her gaze was focused on Ripplestreak, whose tabby flanks were still rising rapidly as if gasping for air.
βEnough!β Phoenix yowled as he dug his claws into the battered ground and hurled himself at Archstar. She whirled around at incredible speed and slashed at him, her claws stained with blood. Her claws made contact to his lower chest, a luckily non-fatal wound. Everything went red as he slipped into a dark haze, mercilessly slashing and nipping at the FireClan leader.
From an outside view, it seemed like the ginger tom was shredding Archstar into pieces. He was so consumed with trying to aiming at her throat, he failed to notice that she sliced a deep wound from his underbelly to chest.
Phoenix crumbled to the ground as his legs gave out on him. He hit the ground with a soft thump. His world, everything around him, started to fade. The ginger tom, now red from blood, struggled to keep his eyes open. The only thing keeping him conscious with the knowledge that Larkfeather would collapse without him, she would retreat into a dark, permanent depression.
The moment he hit the ground, an earth shaking yowl erupted from behind him. As his vision blurred, he could see Larkfeather getting to her paws, all fear and reservation evaporated.
βNo. I am done losing the cats that I care for,β Larkfeather meowed calmly as she, unexpectedly, tackled Archstar to the ground,βYou will not take my family away from me.β Larkfeather shoved her muzzle into the russet she-cat's face,βYou have no right to feel justified in murdering us, we have done nothing wrong,β She tore into Archstarβs hindquarters, tufts of fur coming out with every stroke,βwe are AirClan. We may be damaged, but we are determined.β
With those final words, she backed off of the FireClan leader, bright seafoam blue eyes blazing calmly. Her head was raised high and proud, there was no evidence of the previously fragile, broken shell of a cat that was there mere moons ago. At this time, the battle had broken up. Several of the FireClan warriors had already fled, the rest were backing away slowly.
βYou will never be a true clan!β Archstar snarled before turning and fleeing. Waves of cats followed her over the fence, disappearing from sight quickly.
Phoenix, still struggling to breathe, was being treated by Redsky, whom had rushed out as soon as Larkfeather tackled Archstar. His amber eyes were pale, his body weak as he tried to lift his head. Redsky said nothing, only proceeding to patch his wounds with cobweb as fast as she could.
Larkfeather ran to Phoenixβs side immediately,βYouβve got to be okay. Please.β Her voice was high, sharp with pain and sorrow. She fell to his side, her heart lurching as she saw the full extent of his wounds. For a heartbeat, she met eyes with Redsky, the same concern reflected back at her.
She forced her eyes shut, trying to push away the upcoming grief and force hope, but alas, she could find nothing within her but overwhelming pain. Why, StarClan? Am I destined to lose every cat I care for? Larkfeather wanted to lift her muzzle and yowl into the sky, but she knew it wouldnβt aid Phoenix.
Quiet, almost weightless pawsteps approaching made her eyes flick open. She expected to see Ripplestreak approaching, but instead was greeted by a ghastly gray and white starry cat. He was healthy, his fur thick and clean of scars. It wasnβt until she met his strange, calming sky-blue gaze did she realize that it was Renegade.
A handsome, starry gray tom stood over the pair, his blue eyes now clouded with concern and grief. Redsky stopped treating Phoenix for a brief heat beat as she absorbed the shock of the starry tom before shaking her head and focusing again. He gave the ginger tom a light, affectionate lick on the forehead before running his nose gently under Phoenix chin.
βPlease donβt take him from me,β Larkfeather begged,βHeβs all I have left.β She was rightly concerned that Renegade had come to comfort Phoenix in his last few moments. It was known that, on occasion, former friends and mates took their beloved to StarClan.
βGood to see you too Larkfeather,β he meowed, his tone a forcing joy,βbut you should know that this not in my paws.β Ren glanced at Phoenix for a couple of moments, his gaze searching for something,βHe has to want to live.β
Larkfeather couldnβt bring herself to say anything as she was choked with grief. There wasnβt anything too say, there was not a single thing that she could do but watch and wait as Redsky treated Phoenix.
Finally, Redsky stepped away, her gaze clouded in concern and exhaustion,βI have done all I can.β She padded away to continue treating the rest of the AirClan cats where she was quickly joined by Starlingpaw to assist in treating the cats.
Renegade and Larkfeather sat in complete silence, there was nothing more to be said or done. Phoenixβs survival was unlikely, they all knew that.
After the sun had appeared over the treetops, Ren glanced up at the sky. He sighed heavily, shaking his head,βI have to go. Watch over him.β The former rogue murmured before his scruffy gray body shattered out of existence. Larkfeather closed her eyes as her body relax, welcoming sleep with a final thought. So he has found peace in StarClan...