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Post by Stealthfire on Feb 25, 2020 23:23:34 GMT -5
[I've been on the road a lot so sorry for the drop off, I'll do up a reply now~:)]
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Post by Stealthfire on Feb 26, 2020 0:03:18 GMT -5
Tansymist had to stop herself from wholeheartedly nodding in agreement with his warning. Yes, Cedarstem really should have taken care of this himself, whatever his reasons. And yes, it was only the code, and fair. Instead, she gave a small dip of acceptance respectfully and replied, "I will be sure to relay to him your words." She was touched by his response to her own slip of apologetic offerings. He didn't prey upon her weakness, but in turn gave her kind sentiments returned. The ease and understanding between their exchange had astounded the she-cat.
Exhaustion overcame her as the threat that had tensely buzzed between them had all but dissolved with his offer to escort her back safely. "Thank you. I'm grateful for the protection," she admitted, truthfully appreciative of his forthcomingness about the approaching patrol. Speaking with Jackdawstar gave her a selfish glimpse into what her life could be like under a fair and just leader. She was sick of following the orders of her prideful father, of their ignorant medicine cat, of anyone who cared to boss her around. She was sick of taking on burdens to protect others from cats with too much power and too little consequences.
She dared just for a moment to place herself in Jackdawstar's perspective. All of his questioning and reactions made complete sense, they were fair, and compassionate as well. Was is dreaming to fantasise about a perfect leader to serve? Tansymist snapped herself back to the life she did have. She had to follow the leader she had for now, he wouldn't be around forever. And besides, it was foolish of her to believe that BrambleClan was perfect, surely every clan had its injustices. As she followed in his wake, she calmly reminded herself to brace her feelings for the next time they would meet, most likely under less amicable conditions.
Hearing his cry, she immediately rushed to collect the scattered yellow petals from the dirt. Glancing at her eye level, she spotted a sore looking protrusion on the paw beside her. Thinking little of it, only thinking to get the pain over with swiftly, she deftly brought her jaw close to Jackdawstar's pad and gripped the thorn, pulling it from him efficiently. It was only as she dropped it back to the ground and raised her head to look at him that she realised how vulnerable and daring a position she had just thrust herself into. Such a fast movement, and at a wounded leader, and right up to his claws nonetheless? The thoughtlessness of the action made her fear his retribution for her bold infringement on his safe bounds. She stepped one paw backwards to distance herself from him already, yellow gaze locked upon his moves.
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Post by aether on Feb 26, 2020 8:08:22 GMT -5
[ no fancy code because i am just posting quickly Cx also all good! life is important ]
It was a strange feeling that rippled down Jackdawstar’s spine. One of uncertainty, yet one of gentle warmth. As he had been standing there, on three paws, with one lifted to reveal the protruding thorn, he’d felt utterly embarrassed. What kind of leader was he if he whimpered at a thorn and then couldn’t even keep the tansy from falling into the dirt? From the corner of his peripherals, he’d seen the brown tabby of Tansymist’s back as she bent down to gather the yellow flowers. He’d been about to place his paw back down so he could continue limping onwards, but Tansymist was quicker to move. Briefly, he thought she may be able to take advantage of his weakened state and he prepared himself to snarl – but instead, her fangs clamped on the thorn and pulled it out in one swift movement. The relief was instant, although there was a lingering pain, and his yellows eyes widened.
How was it that such a cat – honest, compassionate, and apologetic – was his enemy? How could he fight her when she looked at him with worried eyes that waited for his reaction? She had done nothing but soothe his paw pad and plant a seed of meddling emotion in his brain.
“I-uh…” he looked sheepish, and although he wanted to match her gaze, his feel short. “Thank you…” his voice was soft and tender, “I really appreciate it. My paw feels much better.” He busied himself by swiping his tongue over the rough black pad, the metallic tang of blood coated his taste buds. At the sound of distant voices – a BrambleClan patrol headed to Smooth Rocks as promised – he swivelled his ears and straightened up. They could not dwell on the moment. “Let’s go – I don’t want them to catch you!” His voice was hushed with concern, and he began limping towards the border once more, letting out small grunts of pain every now and again.
They reached the border. The river that separated their two territories was rushing freely, soaking the stepping stones used to cross, but it was still safe to cross. Soon enough the leaf-bare chill would make the river freeze over and it would be a path. He glanced to Tansymist, his yellow eyes were not fierce or angry or disgruntled as they had been earlier but instead, they were concerned and kind. His appreciation for her helping his paw pad was evident. “Journey safe back to your camp… remember my clan will patrol here more frequently and I-“he stammered and glanced at his paws. His injured paw was gingerly hanging just about the ground, “I wouldn’t want to see you hurt. So, I’ll be back here tomorrow too. Early. To make sure they can’t hurt you.” There was almost an inviting tone to his voice, but it was hard to be sure.
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Post by Stealthfire on Mar 2, 2020 21:14:05 GMT -5
Tansymist relaxed when he reacted with the same courteous embarrassment that he first displayed at the thorn's touch. She opened her mouth to tell him it was merely instinct, but her ears swiveled wildly at unfamiliar voices. Her pupils narrowed and she nodded in hasty agreement to the leader's command to leave. Without any hesitation, she sprung into movement beside him, aware of his limping state and feeling somehow disrespectful to overpass him, even though he was not her own leader. Later, she would curse herself for her willingness to follow his suggestion gladly. Though they did go toward the border, it could just as well have been a trap set for her.
As she neared the scent lines that wafted over the river from her own side of the border, she felt truly safe. Though her guard had dropped much more than usual, there had been a pit in her stomach that never left, one that shamed her for being on another's territory. It was less about the danger involved, and more about how dishonourable she now looked in the face of such a just and compassionate leader. She did not deserve the kindness he had shown her, and Tansymist shuddered to think what even she herself would have done had their roles been reversed.
His farewell was genuine, that she felt. "Thank you, Jackdawstar." His name felt strange off her tongue, it had never been spoken to his face before. The second part of his goodbye, however, struck her first as orderly, it was only right that he'd be patrolling more...then she thought over his words. To protect me? she thought wondrously. The knowledge of his whereabouts in the same place tomorrow morning was almost too much for her to process. Worry overcame her face and her yellow gaze lowered itself once more. With a final respectful nod, she rushed away over the crossing, and fled into the marshy river plants that felt of home.
She took a longer route back to camp, to air out her pelt of BrackenClan scent- of Jackdawstar's presence. Why did he tell her that final thought? With grim disappointment in herself, she knew why she had left so quickly, why he had shaken her only at the end. Somewhere in her crazed mind she wanted to go back the next morning. The thought scared her so much that she fled in disgust of her own disloyalty. After all, why not? Jackdawstar wanted to protect her, it was only fair that she arrive only once more tomorrow, and make sure nothing was awry for him after today. As she neared camp after a whirlwind of debating her own suspicions and shame, she cursed at herself for forgetting the tansy in the confusion of the thorn. She could simply say she had caught wind of their dawn patrol, and would return tomorrow. Cedarstem wouldn't care, but she only hoped Elmstar didn't try to use this second herb visit for more devious means.
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Post by aether on Mar 3, 2020 2:28:42 GMT -5
Jackdawstar watched as the she-cat stepped back, nodded, then disappeared. He stepped forward, jaws opened to say something, but she'd disappeared into the swinging arms of the ferns. Momentarily, he was still. Then he cursed himself. How could you say that?! You're a leader! You shouldn't even be talking to her! You should be chasing her away! His common sense was yowling, but her stomach fluttered nervously. There was something about the way Tansymist had moved, how she had helped without a thought, the way she - just like him - had not wanted a fight. It was instinct for warriors to battle and yet... when he'd pinned her down, she'd looked more regretful than angry. Shaking his head, he bounded back to Smooth Rocks - just in time to see the patrol Kestrelclaw - the great white and grey tom - looked an Jackdawstar in surprise though he made no comment other than, "We can smell MarshClan around here," his voice was laced with contempt. Jackdawstar swallowed but maintained his thoughtful demeanor.
"Yes, I could smell it too. I found no trace of enemies though. We'll just have to check again tomorrow." His paws tingled nervously. He certainly would be back tomorrow. As the patrol nodded in agreement and turned, Jackdawstar looked back over his shoulder. Would she be there too? Surely not... what reason would she have to go back?
The sky was still dark but there a glow that promised sunrise soon. The clan was still blissfully asleep, unaware of the world around them - only Beetlenose was awake, posted at the camp entrance to keep watch overnight. Jackdawstar nosed his way out of his solitary den, his black fur making him blend into the pale rock-face that marked his nesting area. Almost unconsciously, he slipped to the right and under a small tunnel within the bramble wall that surrounded their camp. He felt a stab of guilt slice his chest, but that didn't stop him from padding through the forest, his pace quickening, until he was skidding over the frost-covered Smooth Rock faces. His breath puffed out of his mouth as little clouds, and by now the sun was just easing on the horizon. He could hear the lull of the river nearby and he paused on the rocks. The cold stung at his paw pads, but he stayed still - his pelt was still rather hidden in the dim light.
It was then that he felt stupid. What in StarClan am I doing here? He looked down at his paws, his yellow gaze was conflicted. And if she showed up? What did he plan on doing? He didn't even know what he wanted to say to her! He padded down towards the river again and glanced curiously at the frost encrusted remains of the tansy's that had been left behind the day before. "What am I doing?" He mumbled under his breath, although he made no effort to leave.
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Post by Stealthfire on Mar 3, 2020 19:28:37 GMT -5
Tansymist : Smooth Rocks Border It was near impossible to make out Jackdawstar's shadowy pelt as it began to appear near the river. To stay hidden, Tansymist needed to stay far back from the banks where the underbrush began, but her plan of waiting to see if more than just the leader were present was complicated by the difficult visibility of pre-dawn. She was here to make sure nothing went wrong for him after yesterday, and secondarily to get tansy, if he would allow. No other reason, she reminded herself, only because they were both fair and just cats. Fearfully, she scanned behind his movement to pick out any lurking companions. How devious it would be for him to put on a front so compassionate, only to entrap her the next day to her great shame. Did she really care enough to risk such a scene?
She had been able to easily slip away from her dozing clanmates that morning. No one seemed to question her much anymore, as it was assumed she was always taking on orders directly from Elmstar. Her only fear was for her father to discover of her departure- he was controlling enough to dislike any of his close warriors being where he couldn't find them. But as always, she had plans. Toadstripe was meant to lead that morning's dawn patrol, a tom who never swayed from his habits, and his habit was luckily to visit Smooth Rocks at the very end of a border patrol route. Time was on Tansymist's side, but only if she made their visit as efficient as possible.
Keeping this in mind, Tansymist knew she couldn't wait any longer. If she was ambushed, it was only fair, for her foolishness at that moment was incredible even to herself. As smoothly as possible, she leaped along the river's crossing, and touched down upon the stony surface beyond. She could feel her heart throbbing in her ears. The warrior had never been so unconfident, so unaware of her circumstance. As stoic as possible, she approached the great dark tom. She was a representative from her clan, nothing more. If anything, maybe she could show off all she knew her clan could be, not the unpredictability and selfishness Elmstar had come to associate with MarshClan. She dipped her head to Jackdawstar. "I hope you can forgive me for crossing over...again," she tried to keep her voice as even and plain as possible given the unconventional setting. "Only...I wanted to make sure that I didn't cause you any trouble yesterday. With your patrol, I mean," she meowed. "And to thank you for your kindness again." Saying the words aloud, she realised how pointless the visit was. He was a leader, the most trusted member of a clan, he was no doubt the safest of the two of them yesterday.
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Post by aether on Mar 3, 2020 20:28:10 GMT -5
His yellow eyes watching the riverbank intently, Jackdawstar pondered if he should turn around and leave. The dawn patrol would be extra careful around Smooth Rocks, especially since they had scented Tansymist on the rocks the morning before so unless the pair were very secretive, their meeting might be fleeting once more. Jackdawstar felt as though he'd been cast a spell on, entrancing him to want to see the she-cat from another clan. He disguised it as being protective of his clan, but would he have been so inviting to see her again if that was the case? He swept his tail over his cold paws and cast a final look to the riverbank. Then, there was a shift in the surrounding bushes, and her tabby head pushed through. He watched as she expertly bounded over the stepping stones to his territory and he could see the uncertainty flashing in her gaze as she approached. Not wanting to frighten her, Jackdawstar stayed still where he sat.
He returned the respectful dip of his head to her and perked his ears, taking in her words. He couldn't help by think how much she contrasted her clanmates, or her father in particular. She appeared kind and respectful, careful and bright. It was refreshing and the black leader welcomed it wholeheartedly. There was a catch to her tone that Jackdawstar likened to being dubious. He realised that just as much for him it was out of character to invite someone to meet him from another clan, it was unlike her to actually arrive too. He hesitated, now that it was his turn to speak, he suddenly felt shy and his coat was suddenly too hot despite the leaf-bare cold.
"I, uh, I was fine thank you," he ducked his gaze like a nervous kit, "You didn't cause any trouble at all." He added reassuringly. It wasn't totally true, as some cats from the patrol had scented her and become angry, but he omitted that part. "And there's no need to thank me- in fact, I should thank you for helping my paw. It feels much better." To prove his words, he pressed his paw on the ground without any signs of pain. When he straightened up, he was suddenly lost for words. He hadn't planned what he was going to say to her, only that he had wanted to see her again and even that idea baffled him.
The yellow tansy's beside him gave him a thought, "I noticed you forgot your tansy yesterday... I could help you gather some more to take back?" His gaze held hers steadily but the nervous twitch of his tail showed he was unused to talking and offering so freely to a cat from another clan. He'd always been fair and respected, but never had be allowed another cat to take from their territory - let alone help them do so!
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Post by Stealthfire on Mar 3, 2020 21:33:49 GMT -5
Tansymist : Smooth Rocks Border She couldn't help but slightly turn her head with interest at his apparent bashfulness upon first speaking. But she did believe him. It was as she had guessed, being a leader meant nothing could cause trouble for you. Except, perhaps, other leaders. The collected she-cat let slip a slight mrrow of a chuckle at his displaying of his healed paw. How grateful he was for so little an action. Then Tansymist overthought herself- was it so little an action? Maybe she had crossed some old, unperceivable custom between cats from other clans, or between a warrior and leader from another clan, without even knowing of it. Her experience as a warrior was unmatched, but her social etiquette amongst other clan's cats she couldn't be as confident about. Still, she remained silent as he continued, holding on to her composure as her safety.
He had mentioned the tansy, and she hadn't even needed to find a way to approach the subject herself. "I would be very grateful for that. Cedarstem would be, I mean," she corrected, desiring to keep this meeting as diplomatic and impersonal as possible. Though by now, perhaps it was far too late. Something inside Tansymist wanted to put Jackdawstar at ease. She lightened her expression, though she didn't understand why. He was a leader, and she was a warrior, on his territory. So why did she feel as if she had more power and security than yesterday before she had met him? The last thing she should feel with the BrackenClan tom was at ease.
Growing more comfortable by the moment, Tansymist took initiative to return to the excellent tansy nook she had located yesterday. "I wanted to be a medicine cat for awhile," she spoke almost to herself, a strange memory locked away that pushed itself onto her tongue. Seeing others in pain, like Jackdawstar yesterday, made her feel like taking action. As she realised how personal the comment was, how informal, she felt her pelt warm with embarrassment and hid her face amongst the flowers that she plucked.
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Post by aether on Mar 3, 2020 22:51:03 GMT -5
Jackdawstar ;; Smooth Rocks ;; Tansymist ;; Stealthfire ;;
Many thoughts swirled inside Jackdawstar's head. He wasn't able to decide on which one to listen too first. On one paw, he could hear his mind telling him that he should not be there - that he should leave now and not turn back. But another thought wasn't telling him what to do, instead, it was just stating that he wanted to be there. Fleetingly, he hoped that Feathersong wouldn't notice that tansy had been plucked from the rocks - he didn't want to think of excuses. He hated being dishonest... but he wasn't lying to anyone now. Even though he shouldn't be there talking to Tansymist, he was doing no harm. Right?
He followed the brown and white tabby, padding lightly across the undergrowth and to the tansy that had been forgotten about the day before. He scooped down and picked up one of the stems, the flower sagged in his jaws after the frost had drenched it during the night. It would still be fine to use, cats could not be fastidious about it as they had limited resources. Her words, sudden and personal, made his ears prick with interest. "A medicine cat, huh?" His words were soft and thoughtful, "I can imagine it, you seemed so instinctive yesterday - when you took the thorn out, I mean. But you also seem to have made a great warrior too, I-I've seen you about a bit," He smiled at her warmly, his shyness still in his tone. His concerns were easing, something about her comment made him feel as though she was warming up to him too.
"I never foresaw myself being a leader." He glanced sheepishly at his paws and for a moment he looked like a small apprentice. Many cats had been shocked when Jackdawstar - then Jackdawstrike - was named deputy. But his former leader Flamestar seemed to have much respect for the black tom. Jackdawstar was a respectful mediator, and Flamestar saw that, but he was also fiercely loyal. Glancing to the MarshClan she-cat beside him, Jackdawstar wondered if he was truly being loyal... what harm was there in just speaking to her? "Flamestar never told me I would be deputy, it was something that just... happened, really." His whiskers twitched with a hint of amusement as he remembered his first day as a deputy. He'd hardly known what to do!
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Post by Stealthfire on Mar 4, 2020 21:43:35 GMT -5
Tansymist : Smooth Rocks Border Her gaze lifted ever so slightly as Jackdawstar's approachable attitude once more brought her back into comfort after her breach of formality. She was glad he saw her actions yesterday as instinct, and not some strange misconstrued betrayal of their separate clans. Then her thoughts clouded once more into disappointment. "A great warrior, right," she echoed. That's what she was always supposed to be, so that's what she had become. Her own self-pity bothered her. She was nothing without her clan, and she should be grateful for her respected place within it.
More importantly, Jackdawstar had seen her? The thought seemed to fit oddly in her imaginings. The dark leader, on his BrackenClan side, noticing one MarshClan warrior going about her business on her own side. However, as she began to create a picture of the tom as a personality in her mind, it did not seem too unbelievable for him to respectfully admire the skill of an enemy. This trait of his meant more to Tansymist than the compliment it offered. She paused from her gathering and listened intently as he spoke, returning her vulnerability with his own.
The thought of a leader who never thought he'd become one was yet another strange notion to Tansymist, she struggled to hide the surprise and confusion from her face. Though it had worked out for Flamestar, as Jackdawstar proved capable, at least it appeared to be now, how could a leader risk such power with a cat that hadn't been desiring the position their whole life? Curiosity burned her, and she couldn't stop herself from questioning. "You really never envisioned it at all? I've felt it forever." Though it wasn't yet dangerous for her to be voicing her intended deputyship, Tansymist regained her senses before her chat could pull her further. It was unwise, traitorous even, to inform on just how weak Cloudypool really was, and how close to an end Elmstar was as well. One wrong word from her, and a BrackenClan attack could mean the end of her clan's authority.
Best to stick to the past, where, Tansymist hoped, nothing could harm them. "Well I'm sure you made a fine deputy. Well enough to become leader." In truth, she hadn't remembered much of Jackdawstrike, deputy of BrackenClan. Likely she was far too caught up in her ambitious, youthful days. Flamestar she remembered, and Jackdawstar she now couldn't forget.
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Post by aether on Mar 5, 2020 5:29:01 GMT -5
Jackdawstar ;; Smooth Rocks ;; Tansymist ;; Stealthfire ;;
There was a sense of regret that radiated off Tansymist and Jackdawstar couldn't help peering curiously at her out of the corner of his eyes. Did she want to be a medicine cat? He'd always seen her being a brave warrior, but he wouldn't expect anything different from the daughter of Elmstar... He was distracted by her next question - but was particularly interested in her statement. She was envisioning herself as deputy? He flicked his tail as he silently thought about the interesting path that Tansymist walked. It seemed like she would face many trials and tribulations along the way... his interest in her only soared.
"I never envisioned it myself, no. But it was a great honour. I think I never thought highly enough of myself to consider it because I know there are many great warriors in BrackenClan," his chest puffed proudly as he spoke of his clanmates, "I'm not as old as many other leaders. When I was made deputy I didn't think I was wise enough - I'd only just mentored my first apprentice. But StarClan sure has an interesting way of working," his tone was thoughtful, yet warm. His yellow gaze turned to match hers and he tilted his head curiously. The tom seemed to be less of a leader now, and more of a... well, just a normal cat, keen and interested in her despite her weariness.
"Do you think Elmstar will name you deputy, if... well..." he didn't finish his sentence because it was clear what he meant: if Cloudypool died. Jackdawstar was not blind. He could see age creeping on Cloudypool, in his stiff steps and his fragile physique. No cat could doubt Cloudypool's honour, but they couldn't doubt reality either. Suddenly realising how nosy he was being, Jackdawstar averted his gaze, "I don't mean to make assumptions. I know MarshClan is strong - just like BrackenClan." he added that last part quickly.
He hadn't stopped to think about how he could be being disloyal talking to Tansymist - enjoying her company - on his own territory without telling anyone. In fact, he had sneaked out of camp, and planned on omitting this meeting from anyone. Jackdawstar rarely acted rash, yet his paws had raced to the border in the hopes of catching the brown and tabby pelt of Tansymist. He wasn't sure what was going through her mind, but as he looked at her, he felt his heart beat in his ears.
[ jackdaw is a smitten kitten Cx i'm having him feel the feelings early on, but if tansymist takes her time that's cool. just gives jackdaw more reason to kinda pad after her and impress her xD ]
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Post by Stealthfire on Mar 6, 2020 13:10:36 GMT -5
[ Yeah that's perfect, Tansy's gonna be a slow burn but once she's decided she's gonna be all in, stubborn like thatxD ] Tansymist : Smooth Rocks Border Tansymist listened carefully as Jackdawstar spoke of himself. Humble, and still capable of fulfilling his given duty. StarClan sure did have interesting plans, he was right about that. Was BrackenClan really such that a leader would trust in a rather unambitious warrior and the tom would prove to be a competent choice? She turned her mind back to MarshClan's past, but she had very little reference for it as the only leader and deputy she had ever known were Elmstar and Cloudypool.
As Jackdawstar met her gaze, she was once again the first to break their stare, especially with his next question. "It's long been intended," she responded, and fought herself to pour out too much of her thoughts for his rational, uninvolved opinion. With so much information about MarshClan's inner workings, Jackdawstar may become an even more formidable enemy. But she was dying to know whether her life's path was unusual, or unjust, as Jackdawstar's seemed so much more idyllic. She suspected Elmstar had waited all along from her birth to name her deputy. Cloudypool was almost Elmstar's age, with only one life, and though he was an old friend, there was no possible way for him to ever become leader with such odds. Elmstar knew this well. Tansymist was his real chosen successor. Just maybe, Flamestar was more noble in his choice of leader than the MarshClan path. Tansymist couldn't believe the traitorous conclusions she was drawing. But after speaking like this with Jackdawstar, she didn't know if she could ever go back to her complacent way of life again.
"Cloudypool will pass on, just like Elmstar will, and just like you and me. It doesn't make either of us less strong. We're all four living still," she hastened to spin a reasoning that sounded straight from the mouth of her father. With all the candid conversation she and Jackdawstar had had, Tansymist felt a guilty need to compensate by covering up MarshClan's truly disadvantaged state. She was about to prattle on, but made the mistake of meeting his yellow gaze again. She couldn't lie to him. Maybe she wasn't as strong as Elmstar, or maybe she was simply honest like Jackdawstar. At a loss for words, she found herself endlessly curious as to the black leader's next words. Everything he said was a breath of fresh air to her, new and different to her everyday surroundings.
Her blood chilled as across the water, a booming voice pricked her ears, one she recognised. "Hawkheart," she whispered with fear. "I have to go. You have to go," she ordered hastily, suddenly filled with anxiety for the implications upon Jackdawstar if he was to be spotted. "I thought we'd have more time, but I was wrong. I'll be back tonight, after the dusk patrol. To bring the tansy back." She struggled to make an excuse for the feelings she didn't understand. Why did she want to return? And how could she admit that she had planned plenty of time for them? Overwhelmed once more, she bolted away from the rocks across the river, shooting him one last glance as she crossed, despite the danger.
Desperately wishing to draw the patrol's attention away from the banks, she raced to meet them before they could look across. "Tansymist!" Hawkheart greeted, not without surprise, Rubblepaw, Blackflower, and Sneezeblossom's wide eyes greeting her alongside. "Where's Toadstripe?" Tansymist asked, fighting not to glance over the river again to check if Jackdawstar had escaped. Hawkheart shrugged. "I led the patrol instead. Morningcloud needed him this morning. Tansymist, I didn't think you were the type." Her heart was pounding with fear. What had her clanmate seen? "You reek of BrackenClan. Giving them a lesson on who really owns Smooth Rocks?" Hawkheart grinned. With relief, she knew he had only seen her crossing the river. "With every opportunity I get," she replied with her best snarl. Tansymist fell in beside them as they continued their patrol. Hawkheart's mindless disdain filled her with a shocking truth: she wanted to go to see Jackdawstar tonight even more. But the danger was only becoming more and more real. If Tansymist wasn't careful, and if Jackdawstar wanted to see a powerful MarshClan cat dead, tonight could be the end of her.
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Post by aether on Mar 7, 2020 4:14:57 GMT -5
Jackdawstar ;; Smooth Rocks ;; Tansymist ;; Stealthfire ;;
Flicking his ears in agreement to her words, Jackdawstar stared over the river towards MarshClan. He knew that Tansymist was holding back her thoughts and opinions - reasonably so - yet he silently willed to hear her true beliefs. There was a tug at his heart that struck him when he wondered if they would talk again after this, not just at a gathering where they may politely greet eachother, but to actually converse with one another. The only reason they were here now was because... his head tipped curiously, just slightly. Because... turning his bright gaze back to his rival clan member, why did we both meet here? He could only remember the interest in the she-cat that caused him to race through the forest to see if she would arrive.
"You're right, I-" his words were cut off by the booming voice across the river. Instantly, he was on his paws, staring with wide eyes. He had recognized the distinct voice of Hawkheart, whose very name left a bitter taste in his mouth. Looking back to Tansymist he nodded quickly to her order, she was right; he had to leave. As she continued, his ears perked with interest. He wanted to ask her what she meant but her paws were already thudding across the earth, and her figure was dancing over the stepping stones. The rustling of bushes on the other side of the river made Jackdawstar recoil and he dove into the prickly arms of a bramble bush. He stayed still and silent, holding his breath as Tansymist approached her clanmates, then the patrol moved off and disappeared.
I thought we'd have more time, had she planned to spend more time with him? The idea made his chest swirl, and a moment later he felt guilty for wishing that had been able to spend more time together. Tonight, there's no harm in meeting and talking, is there? Not when no one knows. His musing was merely his way of trying to make the situation appear better but there was only one way to look at it: he was excited to meet in secret with this pretty she-cat from MarshClan. He stayed longer than he needed in the brambles before he slid out and trekked back to the forest towards camp, he dodged the dawn patrol and managed to hunt for a vole on the way back - the perfect excuse for his absence. Yet, when he sat in camp and listened to the murmurings of his clanmates, the concerns of Feathersong when she talked of the leaf-bare chill, all he could think about was the night. Excitement tingled in every strand of fur on his pelt and he struggled to remain composed for his clan.
The sun had faded, leaving behind darkness and cold. Jackdawstar fluffed up his pelt against a breeze as he slipped out of the camp, using the same back tunnel he had when he'd sneaked out earlier that morning. He stalked quietly until he was far enough from the camp to race like a hare - dashing through the undergrowth, leaping over fallen trees, skidding through the leaf litter. He felt as though he was an apprentice finally allowed into the forest for the first time. But his heart was set on the destination, and as his paws hit the freezing surface of the stones, he slowed. Would she be there? If not for his beaming, excited eyes that gleamed in the darkness he would have blended in completely into the darkness. He slipped across the rocks and padded to the stepping stones, awaiting her appearance. He sat patiently only for a few moments before he placed his paws on the first stepping stone and stretched up so he could gaze into the undergrowth on the other side.
[ she's so cute <3 ]
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Post by Stealthfire on Mar 8, 2020 23:58:49 GMT -5
Tansymist : Smooth Rocks Border Tansymist sat in the undergrowth downstream from Smooth Rocks, just as she had earlier that day. Earlier on, she had been able to do nothing but sit in camp, stressing herself half mad, debating whether to follow her foolish path that night. For what ends? It had come to the point where Tansymist needed a pragmatic reason, an objective, to continue speaking with Jackdawstar. Everything inside her wanted to see him, to speak with him. The problem was justifying her strange feelings to her own strategic thoughts. Was it strategy? Her plan all along if she were to be spotted by a clanmate was to confess that she had been gaining information for her father, but she couldn't convince herself of the same. Nothing in her desired to be manipulative to Jackdawstar, the young, dutiful leader who cared for his clan, and, as he had somewhat proven by dangerously meeting her, cared for her. It took everything in Tansymist's strong convicted disposition to keep her guard up for tonight. She could not give him trust. There were reasons for clans and their rules, and reasons why cats of other clans never met as frequently as they were beginning to do.
She spotted him then- waiting for her. Her eyes glinted in the moonlight through the bramble. There was little use hiding, but she still felt shame stepping into the light to meet him. Then, she noticed the leader take a step onto a crossing stone, and without hesitation she glided forward to meet him. "We have to stay over here," she said, absentmindedly brushing him with her tail to motion toward BrackenClan territory. Thinking it over more carefully, Tansymist knew Jackdawstar would never have been foolish enough to venture onto MarshClan territory to find her, but in that previous moment her fear overcame her. "Sorry." She didn't need to say any more, she knew the leader suspected any BrackenClan scent on MarshClan territory would be the perfect spark to war. The warrior couldn't bring herself anymore to recognise out loud the very tension that made their near friendly encounters so forbidden.
"Everything was alright earlier," she moved swiftly onward. "Hawkheart, I mean. He's the last cat I'd want seeing us, he would jump to all the wrong conclusions." The words felt funny in her mouth as she spoke them, for what other conclusions could their be but negative ones? At this point, she had given up pretense for meeting Jackdawstar. There was no orders from Cedarstem to hide behind with him now. She noticed that she was stood on edge, her tail flicking listlessly and her legs stationed at attention. She needed to calm down, but she found it so difficult when they were completely exposed. The whiteness of the moonlight seemed to shine much clearer on their pairing than hazy yellow daylight.
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Post by aether on Mar 9, 2020 3:45:17 GMT -5
Jackdawstar ;; Smooth Rocks ;; Tansymist ;; Stealthfire ;;
Jackdawstar heard the faint rustle on the other side before he saw Tansymist, her tabby and white figure skipping across the stones with ease. He bounced back to accommodate her on the other side and an unmistakable swell rose in his throat at the sight of her so close. He didn't know when it happened, but somewhere along the way his anticipation at meeting Tansymist became overwhelming. He couldn't express this outwardly though, so as she landed beside him, he averted his gaze downwards. Only when she spoke did he raise his head and meet her bright yellow eyes. The brief touch of her tail on his flank was enough to warm the leaf-bare chill from his coat and he followed her a few paces from the border. There was a certain tenseness to her body, perhaps she was uncomfortable? But she'd been the one to tell him to meet there. Was she nervous because there was about to be a battle? He glanced over the skipping stones, momentarily fearful that he'd been caught in a trap. The stillness on the other side - disturbed only by a brief breeze - comforted him. She was alone indeed. It was more comforting that she had concern for him - whilst he was not planning on entering MarshClan territory, her 'sorry' was enough to speak of the fear she had at her clanmates catching BrackenClan scent on their side of the river. He was in no rush to start a war either.
Before he could say anything, she was whisking onward. There was definitely unease oozing from her pelt, which more than anything only made Jackdawstar feel concerned for her. He stepped forward and touched his tail to her shoulder briefly, a small, warm smile on his face. It was almost impossible to make out his features in the dim moonlight, but his eyes were bright like yellow suns. "I'm glad you're safe, I was worried. C'mon, let's go up here where there is more shelter," without pausing, he leapt up a rounded boulder, then he bounced down on the other side, and down another rock. At the bottom, they were sheltered by stones, with a rocky ledge above their heads.
Now that they were here... Jackdawstar wasn't sure what to say. He didn't want to talk about his clan because he didn't want her to take any details away, but he didn't want to discuss her clan, because he didn't want to make her uncomfortable. "I-uh, I'm glad to see you again. I know it's only been the day, but I can't help feeling like you're a breath of fresh air," the end of his statement came out shyly and he brushed his tail over his paws. "I hope you aren't risking too much being here though, if no one knows." He didn't intend it, but there was implication of the 'if' in his words. If no one knew she was here - or if they did, was she sent to spy? Despite the excitement that skipped in his heart, there was always a lingering mist that she was from another clan, and that nothing was predictable.
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Post by Stealthfire on Mar 11, 2020 19:48:01 GMT -5
Tansymist : Smooth Rocks Border To her surprise, his leading her to a more secluded location filled her not with hesitation but with relief. Instead of fearing for her vulnerability following deeper within another clan's territory, she was put at ease knowing that she and Jackdawstar could be further away from the potential sight of both of their clans. The further away she went from her clan, the more she felt like who she wanted to be. And that was a thought which didn't sit well with Tansymist at all. As she reached the rocky surroundings that sheltered them at the bottom, the moonlight struggled to seep into their eyes as it had so brightly and piercingly done in the open air.
She wasn't sure of the exact expression on the leader's face, but she supposed he was just as lost for words as she at that moment. There was no pretense of separate orders, no time constraint, no patrol threatening to find them at any moment. Forced into such a state, Tansymist was surprised to find how little she truly had to say. And yet, she yearned for how easily she could speak to Jackdawstar about anything and have him see through the problem, to be reasonable and think just as she did. Even in the dark, there were many things she needed to be careful of saying even so. "I think I know exactly how you feel," she allowed herself to admit. "I'm risking nothing that I can't regain. I really don't think I could do anything bad enough to escape my path at this point." Her comment was intended as a wry observation, but its truth to her position struck her more honestly than she had anticipated. "Besides, you're the one who upholds the image of your clan. That's not me, not yet."
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Post by aether on Mar 11, 2020 23:29:17 GMT -5
Jackdawstar ;; Smooth Rocks ;; Tansymist ;; Stealthfire ;;
She mightn't have meant it, but her words stung Jackdawstar. He twitched his ears and looked away, his gaze troubled. While his heart yearned to be there with her, he knew that her words were annoyingly true. Jackdawstar upheld the image of his clan - without him, his clan would suffer. So what am I doing here, with her? He could hear Feathersong - his closest friend - snapping at him uncharacteristically. Telling him that he was fool for even so much as glancing in Tansymist's direction. And beyond that, out of all the cats he could decide to pad after why did it have to be Elmstar's daughter? The cat everyone predicted to be the next leader of MarshClan? Where did he foresee his feelings going - how on earth could they last? Sighing, his shoulders sagged, only noticeable by the moonlight that outlined his frame. "I am risking a lot, not just me, but I'm risking a lot for my clan..." his gaze drifted back across the rocky terrain to match hers, "and yet... I can't help it. I just had to come. I wanted to see you." His voice was soft and only intended for her ears. The leaf bare breeze, now bone-chilling, whisked the words and made them disappear. Only she would ever hear them.
"I don't want you to think that this is some sort of trap so I can gather information about MarshClan, and I hope that you aren't doing that either. I honestly... I don't know, I just can't help myself." His paws shuffled on the cold rock and he felt a warm flush under his pelt. Never had he felt so vulnerable yet so happy. He had everything to risk in doing this, yet he couldn't stop himself. If Tansymist decided to leave and forget about the whole situation then perhaps it would be for the best, yet he hoped so dearly that she might have some inkling of the same feelings. Otherwise, why were they here right now? A strong breeze buffeted his pelt and he tilted his head towards the breeze - soon there would be snow in the territories. Despite his long-haired pelt, the cold chilled his bones. "I just think you're different to everyone else. In the best way."
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Post by Stealthfire on Mar 12, 2020 14:17:56 GMT -5
Tansymist : Smooth Rocks Border For the first time that Tansymist had noticed, Jackdawstar looked away from her, looking as troubled and conflicted as she herself often did in his presence. He really was affected by her words, which could only mean that she wasn't alone in feeling so gravely yet passionately about their meetings. "I know you are...I wanted to see you too." She was amazed at how candid she became around him. It was his own ability to be so forthcoming with her that dared her to return the same.
Next, he gave voice to what she had feared deep down from the very start. "If this is a trap, then I deserve to be tricked. It's all my own foolishness to blame." Tansymist had the urge to run back to her territory, to camp, to everything she had worked for. Everything about their sudden honesty, their understanding, scared her beyond an ability to cope. She felt if she met his gaze she wouldn't be able to know where she was, or who she was, ever again. "I feel the same. Speaking to you is like you're the only one to ever truly understand me. Who I really am." She thought to her mother Littlewish, before she passed away moons ago just after Tansymist and Morningcloud's warrior ceremony. Littlewish was the last cat in MarshClan to see Tansymist for what she really was, who she really wanted to be. After her mother was gone, there was no one to be true to except Elmstar and her sister, but Morningcloud was so distant since her kits, and Elmstar only wanted to see himself in Tansymist. Jackdawstar made her feel like she could follow what she really wanted, to love and to live a life devoid of conflict. To feel the way she did every time she saw him.
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Post by aether on Mar 12, 2020 17:21:34 GMT -5
Jackdawstar ;; Smooth Rocks ;; Tansymist ;; Stealthfire ;;
The words that Tansymist spoke, I wanted to see you too, filled Jackdawstar with a warmth so strange yet so familiar. It filled his chest and caught in his throat, similar to the appreciation one might feel for their kin, but more intense. It was undeniable now - he'd always been aware of Tansymist at gatherings and on border patrols, but now that they'd interacted so honestly together he had garnered feelings for her. It was a dangerous maneuver for any cat to have feelings for someone outside of their clan but it was even more so for a leader. Yet, a small purr sounded in his throat, and he couldn't help himself. For a moment he wanted to just be a normal cat who could make normal decisions without the burden of his clan. Was that so much to ask?
It's not a trap. It's all true. Relief washed over Jackdawstar. He wouldn't put it past Elmstar to send a warrior into BrambleClan territory in order to spy. But would Elmstar risk sending his daughter alone? Jackdawstar doubted it. Tansymist had come on her own free will and that thought sent ripples of joy from his nose to his tail-tip. They were here now because they wanted to be, not because they had to be or because they were spies. "I'm glad we're on the same page then," he murmured. He didn't know he was tense, but as he spoke he could feel his body relaxing. Now he felt like he could truly enjoy their meeting with the air clear of any suspicions. He was sure that he would still need to earn her trust, and that she would need to earn his trust, but by the way his heart was beating with glee in his chest it surely wouldn't be long. Jackdawstar shuffled closer to the she-cat, sitting beside her with his pelt a mere inch from brushing hers. "I know your sister had kits recently, how are they?" His tone was more conversational now, with honest interest. He hoped the question wasn't too personal for Tansymist to feel reluctant to answer.
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Post by Stealthfire on Mar 16, 2020 12:01:52 GMT -5
Will be doing reply today:) I've been very ill sorry:(
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Post by aether on Mar 16, 2020 16:39:04 GMT -5
Thats okay! I hope you feel better soon, make sure you take care of yourself :c
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Post by Stealthfire on Mar 16, 2020 18:08:18 GMT -5
Tansymist : Smooth Rocks Border Tansymist knew that between the both of them, perhaps a million thoughts swarmed in their heads. Long pauses between each other's comments, lots of pensive moments filled with nothing but uncertainty - surely it wasn't unusual considering their predicaments. Hearing a small purr erupt into the darkness from Jackdawstar's direction was a more comforting sign than words could ever convince her of. Many cats were capable of lying, but for the first time in her life Tansymist was willing to place everything at risk believing he wasn't.
As he moved closer, she felt more relief. The darkness shaded his already shadow-tinted face, and she had been unable to track his expressions as seamlessly as she felt she had perceived that day. Feeling him beside her, Tansymist didn't think she even needed to see his face. She sighed when he asked about Morningcloud. Why did something so wonderful have to come with so many painful memories as well? "Oatkit and Ryekit are perfect. Toadstripe is very happy, but...Morningcloud just can't seem to bring herself away from losing Barleykit in the first moon. I've barely spoken to her since. And I've never been great around kits anyway." She was ashamed of the last part. With no way to connect with her sister anymore, Tansymist believed she had all but lost her. As she pieced together what life in BrackenClan looked like, she realised aloud, "Your sister has kits too. Runningstep is your sister, isn't she?" She had run through her recollections of gatherings gone by, trying to imagine kinships outside of what she was familiar with in MarshClan.
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Post by aether on Mar 16, 2020 23:06:04 GMT -5
Jackdawstar ;; Smooth Rocks ;; Tansymist ;; Stealthfire ;;
The soft sigh that escaped Tansymist's maw spoke more words than what followed. Though she'd hardly be able to see, his gaze softened. He had heard fleetingly about the loss of a kit in MarshClan and caught rumors of it being Morningcloud's kit - but he'd never been informed of the exactness. "I couldn't imagine how it would feel losing a kit, especially as a queen," he tilted his head sheepishly - he would never know a queens perspective - "but so long as she has support around her, I'm sure she'll recover. She'll realize that Oatkit and Ryekit need her more now than ever." Whilst he sounded hopeful, there was a dark itching in his mind that hissed at him. You have no idea, Jackdawstar! She's not your clanmate! He ignored the thought. Leaning over slightly, he nudged Tansymist's shoulder with his own, "Not good with kits? I think they're great." He voice was teasing, but amused.
When she asked about Runningstep, he nodded straightened up. "Brindlekit is tiny, but she is a pawful. Ravenkit and Hawthornkit can't keep up, and Runningstep has already told me she can't wait for them to be out of the nursery." He was proud of his nieces and nephews, who'd been born in the beginning of leaf-fall, when the weather was still warm. They were now strong enough to bare the cold that gnawed at their bones, unlike Morningcloud's litter, who must have been born as the weather turned cold. Jackdawstar had always liked kits, their innocence brought him joy, and nothing made a kit happier than yowling with victory as their leader bowed in defeat to them. The glimmering warmth in the inky toms eyes expressed his happiness, and he twitched his whiskers in the darkness. "I suppose it might be for the best if your not good with kits - it takes a lot of time, especially if you're going to be deputy." He spoke the words lightly, but watched her keenly, knowing that she carried a great burden on her shoulders. Perhaps she had thought of kits of her own, or maybe the idea of being deputy wasn't what she dreamed of. There was still a great amount that Jackdawstar was yet to learn about her, but the thudding in his heart proved that he wouldn't let this be the last time they met. He was already itching with excitement to see her in the daylight, to see her features. Her scent was comforting, but it wasn't enough.
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Post by Stealthfire on Mar 24, 2020 18:34:35 GMT -5
Tansymist : Smooth Rocks Border Jackdawstar's words felt encouraging to her in a time when she had all but moved on from the possibility of Morningcloud returning to herself again. For a cat that didn't like to believe what others promised, she found herself believing in his optimism. She was unsurprised that the leader got on well with kits, it more than suited his open nature. The tabby smiled slightly as he brightened describing the vivid personalities of his sister's kits.
"I'm sure they'll be more than ready to begin their training," she purred, "They'll make eager apprentices by the sounds of it." How could they not, when they were the confident tom's own kin, she thought to herself. "You're right, there's plenty of ways to serve the clan besides having kits. And I'll be able to give every minute to my clan," she agreed. But for the first time in her life, she felt more negatively toward the certainty of it all. She had never believed she'd have kits, so she'd never tried to care about them until they were apprentices ready to be trained. Now, just thinking of the impossibility of having them at all, made her the slightest bit upset at her path, set in what seemed like stone. Jackdawstar would make an excellent father to BrambleClan kits, he seemed the type to be able to maintain his demanding post as leader and still spend time with them in the nursery. It was not the same for her, and she suddenly wish she at least had the possibility. Tansymist frowned at the thought of Jackdawstar having BrambleClan kits rather than smiling at the prospect. Was she only upset that they'd belong to another she-cat? She shook her thoughts quickly, naturally that was how it would be.
"Besides," she moved back to their conversation, "I love being a mentor, so I get to spend time with the youngest of the clan once they're past six moons at least. It's so fulfilling. Who was your apprentice?" she asked, certain he would likely feel similarly considering how much he loved kits. Though she was sure he hadn't one now, he must have mentored some fine BrambleClan warrior in his younger days to become deputy. She wished she could do things like train apprentices with him, or share the same clanmates, or hunt together. Why did they have to hide like this, banned from the forest while they were together?
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Post by aether on Mar 25, 2020 0:19:01 GMT -5
Jackdawstar ;; Smooth Rocks ;; Tansymist ;; Stealthfire ;;
Jackdawstar swelled at her compliment to his kin and his lips curled into a blissful smile. He found himself being surprised by how much he was getting along with the MarshClan she-cat - he seemed to click with her so quickly, whereas he'd never felt so interested in someone before. Not wanting to be disparaging, he nodded his head and replied to her words, "Of course. I think you'll make an excellent deputy too," his tone was soft and encouraging but there was a part of him that wished it could all be different. What if she could have been a warrior from BrambleClan? She was level-headed and bright, she was fair and skilled; all round an excellent choice for deputy and leader. A sense of yearning kept murmuring in his ears: what if?
"Some might say that being a mentor is more important than anything else. Not only do you have the trust of an apprentice to maintain, but you are also teaching the future of your Clan. Whatever you say to your apprentice will be repeated to theirs one day, which I think is very powerful." Finishing his rambling, Jackdawstar twitched his ears nervously hoping he hadn't bored the she-cat with his words. It was something he had understood more as a leader than ever before that apprentices were not just young cats training to be warriors, instead, they were the future of the clan. He tilted his head and smiled at her question, "I had two apprentices: Brackentail and Sorrelspots." He spoke fondly of the two, who had grown into trusted warriors. He opened his mouth to ask her a question but was cut off by a gust of wind that suddenly howled over the rocks. He fluffed up his coat against the chilling breeze and brushed closer to Tansymist, pressing his warm flank against hers. Was it time for them to return to their own camps? The thought was immediately followed by disappointed. There was an allure to Tansymist that he simply couldn't deny.
Turning his head to her he shifted his paws - perhaps if he said nothing at all, they could stay a little longer? "I know you have an apprentice, how is his training?" He asked, his voice softer as their closer proximity didn't require much volume.
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Post by Stealthfire on Mar 27, 2020 14:50:05 GMT -5
Tansymist : Smooth Rocks Border Tansymist felt her own thoughts spoken aloud as Jackdawstar spoke wisely about the importance of mentorship. His ability to see the bigger picture, the legacy of the clan, not just squabbles within one's own lifetime...that was powerful to her. "I feel the same way. It's an even greater honour than becoming deputy or leader," she ventured, "You're placed in charge of a whole warrior's path." She remembered flickers of Brackentail and Sorrelspots' pelts in her mind, they were names that she had cheered at Gatherings gone by.
She once again was forced into thinking of her own clan, instead of escaping into his. "Newtpaw, yes," she couldn't help but chortle a little. "He's eager, and what he lacks in grace he makes up for in hard work. Pikescale needed to be woken up almost every day when I trained him, but he grew out of his laziness thankfully." She had been given the great gift of mentoring two of her deputy's kits, something that made her even more emotional toward the inevitable replacement of Cloudypool. She didn't realise it, but she had been shivering. Her reconnection to the physical world was jarring. Suddenly she was aware of the weather, the sounds of the night, and the light which seemed to be getting brighter, if only in her imagination. She had been lost in Jackdawstar. "I should go, in case I'm needed for the dawn patrol." And if I want to have enough dark cover to sneak past the night vigilant at camp. She worried about the next time they would meet again, but hoped the leader would have a sly solution. He seemed to be better at meeting her than she was at sneaking away.
[Would you want their next meeting to be a bit of a hostile patrol interaction? Not a battle yet just a lil tense hehe]
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