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Post by Dawnmist on Jan 26, 2022 20:02:05 GMT -5
/few day skip/
Morningpaw woke abruptly and quickly stood, she just had another crazy dream where she was in the water again. She looked to Owlwing, but the tom was asleep. She shook her thoughts away and exited the den, the fresh air hitting her face made her feel better for a moment. The fish had cuts all over them… something bad is going to happen. She stared at the ground in her thoughts, the world around her didn’t exist anymore. What if something bad did happen and she knew that? Why does she need to know if there was nothing she could do?
Duskpaw had already woken up and been laying in front of the den that he and Frostpaw have now been staying in the past few days. The feeling of leaving Azreal behind and staying in the forest under the tree was overwhelmingly nice for him, he never wanted to leave. He waited patiently for Frostpaw to wake, since they found the den they have made their way down to the water every morning. They would get more water and he would tease her until she caught them a fish. He had also shown her some hunting techniques and they both have play fought, just in case they come across an enemy they wanted to be ready.
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Post by Reden on Jan 26, 2022 21:33:59 GMT -5
Aspenpaw noticed his sister from across the clearing and bounded over excitedly. "Hey!" He puured, nudging her when he was close enough. The dark tabby sat down and gave his shoulder a few licks to smooth down some stray hairs beofre looking back at Morningpaw. "The gathering is coming up soon." He purred with excitement. He wasn't chosen to go last time but he was sure he would get a chance for this onw. The two times he did go, he searched high and low for signs of Frostpaw and Duskpaw with no luck. He fully planned to try again. Morningpaw always had Owlwing sticking to her, so he often had to search alone, but it did make him feel like he was on a secret scouting mission at least. "Oh! How are Briarshine's kits? Shadowtail only allowed me to see them once."
Froastpaw yawned and stretched as she exited the den, she had found sleeping here to be much easier. They always had the den well hidden, sometimes missing it themselves when they returned, and there had been no signs of predators or other cats in the area. "I wonder why this territory hasn't been claimed." She said as she walked up to her brother, ready to go to the river as they talked. She found it very odd, perhaps the river was too deep for Forestclan cats to bother? She yawned again as they walked, thinking hard about her observation.
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Post by Dawnmist on Jan 26, 2022 22:46:40 GMT -5
Morningpaw purred when Aspenpaw came up to her, it was just what she needed. “I know, I’m excited.” She replied to his comment about the gathering coming up. She uses her strong sense of smell to see if Duskpaw or Frostpaw are near the gathering, she knows by now that their scent is different but still hasn't smelt anything. But she’d never lose hope, and she’ll always look for them. “Brairshine and her kits are doing very well,” Morningpaw mewed to her brother before rubbing her pelt against his, “I love you.” She said to him and let out a purr.
Duskpaw shrugged at his sister, “I’m not sure, maybe one day it could be ours.” He mewed and gave his sister a smirk. He thought for a moment and spoke again, “I wonder where the old third clan's territory was.” He observed. Standing up he signaled with his tail to his sister to go down to the water, it was about the time they usually go. As he approached the water he began taking big gulps of water, loving every drop of it.
Bristlefur walked along the Forestclan territory line and noticed two cats by the shore down a small slope. They weren’t in the territory, but since he was alone he was up for conversation. Hopefully they don’t want a fight. He began padding down the slope and about half way down he broke his silence, “hi there! Before you think I want to fight I don’t, my name is Bristlefur.” Bristlefur mewed kindly as he approached the two cats, noticing the colors of their pelts he quickly realized they were the two cats that left Isletclan. He regretted his decision to talk to them quickly, who knows if they would be defensive towards him?
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Post by Reden on Jan 27, 2022 19:05:30 GMT -5
“I love you too.” Aspenpaw purred, then he turned towards the clearing. “We should go get something to eat. I’m starving.” He told his sister was he trotted towards the fresh-kill pile, picking out a shrew for himself before sitting at the usual spot, not seeming bothered that Frostpaw and Duskpaw wouldn’t be joining them. “I wonder if I’ll have my warrior name by then.” He thought out loud, taking a large bite from the shrew as he watched his sister with a curious gaze. Soon Morningpaw would also be finished her apprenticeship as well, making her a full fledged medicine cat.
Frostpaw giggles lightly. “You believe in that story? It’s a tale for kits.” She told him, nudging him slightly. She remembered Silvermist telling Them stories of a third clan that once rules part of the forest and coast, though he did not know the name. It was an old wise tale, warning kits of how scary twolegs were, nothing more than that. The she-cat continued to fool around and tease her brother until she caught an unfamiliar scent, causing her to look around anxiously. She was surprised to see an older tom appear and greet them. Nervously, she looked to her brother for a second before looking back at the tom, shifting on her paws. He was of Forestclan, she recognized the scent quickly, but what was he doing here? She gave the cat a nod in greeting, “Hello...”
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Post by Dawnmist on Jan 27, 2022 21:29:41 GMT -5
Morningpaw followed Aspenpaw closely, only about a tail length behind him. She grabbed a mouse when he grabbed a shrew and laid close to him in their normal spot. “Maybe you will, it would be cool if we got our names together.” She mewed happily to me, it would be a new part of their life and she was ready to start it. “How are you doing?” She asked him, since she was always bugging Silvermist about how he’s doing she might as well be the same way with her brother.
Duskpaw gave Frostpaw a single nod when she looked at him to signal it was okay. The tom was alone and didn't seem a threat. “Hello.. I’m guessing you're from forestclan?” He assumed, given the name and the territory they were in. Duskpaw knew for a fact that they weren’t on their territory, so why was the cat talking to them? He just wanted to appreciate the water and everything they had, instead of being interrupted for nothing.
Bristlefur took a step closer to them to be on level ground, “yes I am, and who are you guys?” He asked the two, impatient to find out what they would say. He could tell they weren’t clan cats, or at least anymore. But he could tell they were the two cats that Isletclan mentioned at the past few gatherings. Since one of their pelts are black and one white with mottled spots, it was too easy to remember.
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Post by Reden on Jan 27, 2022 22:06:06 GMT -5
Aspenpaw gave his sister an eager nod, trying to think of what names they would be given. He just hoped his would be something cool. "I wanna get a frice name!" He told his sister with a dramatic flair to his tone. "Something like Aspenclaw or uh Aspen...fang? I wish father named me something that would give me a bit more flair." He added, narrowing his eyes as he concentrated on what names would sound good. "Like Darkshadow!" He purred, standing up and showing Morningpaw a pose that would look threatening if it wasn't for his goofy grin. "Aspens are just boring trees." He complained, sitting back down. He did like his name, despite his complaints, and could see how his pelt resembled the black and white trees. "They should call you Morningbird, since you're always the first one up." He added with a chuckle. Aspenpaw then tilted his head at her question and nodded. "Yes, I'm fine." He told her, feeling a bit uncertain. "I have Redpaw with me, so it's not that bad. He went through something similar after all."
Frostpaw pressed into her brother slightly and eyed the mysterious cat, watching for any signs of aggression or trickery. She stepped forward, a paw step in front of her brother. "We are just loners trying to make ends meet. We don't want any trouble." She told him politely, making sure to not have her tone come off as a possible threat. She just hoped he understood that she had no intention of chatting with him if she could help it. He seemed friendly enough, but so did Azreal when she guilt tripped Duskpaw into leaving with her. "From our understanding, there are no scent markings around here. Did we perhaps make a mistake?" She added, figuring the Bristlefur would be less friendly if he was trying to move them, however, Forestclan could be trying to expand right now, so perhaps he was scouting. Now that she can fish with confidence, they would be fine to follow the river further away if needed, but that would take them away from Isletclan, and the gathering spot.
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Post by Dawnmist on Jan 27, 2022 23:20:03 GMT -5
Morningpaw giggled at Aspenpaw as he talked about his name, “I bet you’ll get something like Aspenleaf,” she teased him. “I’m joking.” She said and took the last few bites of her mouse. “That’s good..” she replied to him, she was glad his brother had Redpaw but she wished they talked to each other more. Redpaw did go through something similar but Aspenpaw and Morningpaw went through the same thing, literally. “I know you think you can’t bug me because I’m busy, but truth is I’ll always be busy. But I make time for you and father, we all need to stick together…” Morningpaws voice trailed off, it felt like she was glueing the pieces back together as everyone else takes it apart as she goes.
Bristlefur took a small step back, “you’re right, the territory line is just up this slope.” He mewed and turned towards the slope, it was best that he leave the two to what they were doing. “Sorry I bugged you,” he mewed and made his way up the slope to continue his border patrol.
Duskpaw watched the tom leave and stepped away from Frostpaw, “so you’re just going to stand in front of me like I’m a kit?” He accused her, taking offense from her stepping in front of him towards the Forestclan warrior. “Well I’m not, I can protect myself.” He snapped and turned back towards the water, irritation growing slowly in the back of his mind. Either she thinks I’m useless or I’m gonna start a fight with everyone.
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Post by Reden on Jan 27, 2022 23:46:00 GMT -5
Aspenpaw groaned at her name suggestion. "Leaf? Too boring." He told her. "Anyways, I'll bug you more if Owlwing stops being so grumpy, how does he expect anyone to go to him for healing if he acts like you just made dirt in his nest? He's worse than the elders." Aspenpaw whisper, making sure the medicine cat wasn't nearby. He had been lectured before by the older cat about respect and order and blah blah blah. "I don't know how you are always in a good mood." He grumbled as he finished his shrew, swiping his pink tongue across his lips with a happy purr. He gave his sister a quick lick on the shoulder to calm her down, noticing how tense she was. "We will be fine, we will see them soon, I can feel it. I'm going to train super hard and bring them home to us." He told her with confidence. He was determined to one day become leader, then he could use his power to find his siblings and keep them safe, as well as the rest of the clan.
Frostpaw's eyes lingered on the slope for a moment after the tom disappeared only relaxing when she was sure he was gone. Her brother's words caught her off guard, causing her ears to pin back. "Pardon?" She asked with a stern tone, walking ahead of him and standing in his way. "Duskpaw, you pointed out that he was from Forestclan. He knows that we are the missing clan cats now." She told him with irritation in her voice. "I'm sure he had already suspected it but now it's confirmed. We needed to get rid of him so I spoke. Like it or not, I'm going to make a judgement call when it needs to be made. If you have a problem with that then keep it to yourself." She added with confidence, making sure he was listening to what she was saying. "I know you aren't happy with how things are, but you don't get to talk to me like that. We need to stick together."
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Post by Dawnmist on Jan 28, 2022 0:06:42 GMT -5
Morningpaw chuckled at Aspenpaws comments about Owlwing, “because me and Owlwing have a different relationship than say you and him. He trained me and now we work side by side quietly, it’s like we communicate without speaking sometimes.” She explained to her brother, but she was sure many other cats wondered the same. She enjoyed her relationship with Owlwing, they got along well. Morningpaw nodded once he talked about their siblings, “I can’t wait to see them, and you don’t even need more training. Look at you,” she teased referring to his now rather built body, they both had grown a lot in the past few moons. It made her wonder how big Frostpaw and Duskpaw are now, she assumed Duskpaw was as big as Silvermist. “But yes, we will bring them home.” Morningpaw mewed to Aspenpaw and gave him a look of hope, one day things would be right.
Duskpaw watched the water and let out a low growl as Frostpaw argued back to him, “okay I get it, but can you not act like I’m going to go off the rails and attack everyone. Is that who you see me as? Or do you see me as your little brother you have to protect?” He defended himself but didn’t look away from the water. Her argument about needing to stick together was more than correct, but he couldn’t stand the thought of his sister protecting him. He was supposed to protect her, not the other way around. He wasn’t one to stay angry like this, but Azreal lit a fire inside of him he never knew he had. Easily offended and irritated, which wasn’t alike the old him.
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Post by Reden on Jan 28, 2022 17:42:49 GMT -5
Aspenpaw tilted his head from side to side as she spoke, trying to imagine what she meant. "I mean, I guess." He said in response to what she said about Owlwing. He just thought that medicine cats should always be friendly and kind, unlike Owlwing. He did have memories of the older cat taking care of them but if you so much as looked at him wrong he would lecture you from sundown to sunhigh. He thought Morningpaw was the perfect example of what a medicine cat should be. She was kind and caring while still able to hold her own. He nodded at the idea of being reunited with his siblings. "I still wonder how Azreal convinced them.."He told her, looking at his paws for a moment. When he really thought about it, often it did seem like Frostpaw and Dusckpaw were always dragging their heels behind Morningpaw and himself. Was he just making up excuses now or were his siblings struggling more than he had realized. "Part of me thinks that maybe it will let them find themselves, you know? Like Duskpaw always just pulled pranks on us and Frostpaw would just sit and watch the world go by. Maybe they will get a chance to find out who they really are out there? Then when they come back we can all work together to make Isletclan the best clan this forest has ever seen!" He told her, clearly making up his own narrative, not wanting to think that maybe his siblings hated them, or were hurt or worse.
Fristpaw kept her ears and turned away from him without another word, lapping up some of the water. If he didn't want her to help him out, then she won't. He can fish for himself. She walked over to the smooth river rocks and laid down to sun herself like she normally did. Paying him no mind. She had promised her Father she would protect Duskpaw, and she will keep that promise, even if he is so bothered by it. Frostpaw wondered if he was irritated because they would be almost done their warrior training now, and would be receiving their names if they hadn't left the clan. She groomed her face with her paw while she watched the river. Truth be told, she wasn't minding life outside of the clan, this life at least. It was quiet and peaceful, no cats eyeing you or whispering rumors. No need to fight on the behalf of those same cats that stared at her with distrust due to her quiet nature. If their was trouble, she could just leave, it was simple.
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Post by Dawnmist on Jan 28, 2022 18:41:09 GMT -5
Morningpaw looked down as Aspenpaw spoke of their siblings, reflecting again on everything that had happened. But the thought of Azreal made her lip curl, the she-cat was a no good liar. “Azreal is a liar, she’ll go to any extent to get her way.” She replied to Aspenpaw, “and I suppose you’re right.” She gave the tom a loving stare, she knew their siblings had to be okay. They were trained warriors, regardless if they finished all of their training. Of course they would train together so they could defend themselves? She tried to shake the thoughts away, thinking about it wasn’t going to give them answers. “I’m sure they are fine, like you said this gathering is the one. I can feel it.” Morningpaw said excitedly.
Duskpaw tried to shake off the irritation that occupied his mind, he didn’t need her protection. He couldn’t figure out why it was getting to him so easily, but it was. He stood and glanced around searching for a space to hunt. He craved a fish but knew it wasn’t worth the soaking wet pelt, so he turned away from the water and went off to hunt. Duskpaw returned shortly and dropped a finch in front of Frostpaw without saying a word. He laid a few tail lengths away from the she-cat and enjoyed a thrush he caught, catching birds was now his forte.
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Post by Reden on Jan 28, 2022 20:05:10 GMT -5
Aspenpaw gave Morningpaw a confidant nod. "Yeah." He mewed in agreement, standing up and stretching in the sunlight. "I wonder if they look any different." he mentioned, looking off to the side as he tried to envision what Frostpaw and Duskpaw may look like now. It hadn't been very long, but he wouldn't be surprised if they both grew alot. He felt like there was no difference for himself and Morningpaw, but he did see his sister everyday, so he could just be ignorant to the change. "Do you think Duskpaw will be bigger than me?" He added, not hiding his concern, he was always proud that he was the largest in the litter, though Duskpaw's fluffy often caused strangers to think otherwise.
Frostpaw just eyed the bird for a moment before glancing away as she slowly pulled it closer to herself with her fore paw. "Thank you.." She mumbled, just loud enough for her brother to hear. She was irritated that he was being so nice after what just happened, but her anger subsided very quickly. After a while of eating in silence, she spoke again. "Are we set on going to the gathering?" She asked, even though she knew the answer. Part of her was nervous and needed confirmation that they will be going and that it will go well. Her tail flicked anxiously as she waited for Duskpaw to speak, hoping his bad mood didn't change his answer.
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Post by Dawnmist on Jan 28, 2022 20:28:06 GMT -5
Morningpaw shrugged, “I think they’ll look different, and smell different. And as for Duskpaw probably.” She mewed, Duskpaw was always the biggest, and fluffiest. Quickly she remembered it was about time to take Owlwing some prey, so she stood up and stretched towards Aspenpaw. “Duskpaw may be bigger, but I bet you’ll be leader one day.” She teased and rubbed her pelt against his as she walked towards the fresh kill pile. She picked up a large shrew and padded towards the medicine den, making sure to walk in quietly in case the tom was sleeping. “Good morning,” she whispered as she entered the den.
Duskpaw stopped eating and looked up at Frostpaw, “we are set on going,” he mewed and finished up his food. He watched out into the water as he laid in the sun, he felt so free. The only noise he could hear was the rustling in the trees and the birds singing songs, it was hard to stay angry in such a beautiful spot. A sudden thought came to him and he quickly looked at his sister, “Frostpaw, we need to give ourselves warrior names.” He said eagerly and stood up. They couldn’t be called Duskpaw and Frostpaw forever, at least he didn’t want to be.
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Post by Reden on Jan 28, 2022 20:58:03 GMT -5
Aspenpaw sulked for a moment but was quick to regain his confidence, "Well, I guess I just have to train to be faster than." He said playfully. As he watched his sister walk away he shouted a goodbye. "Redpaw and I will bring you something good for dinner!" He told her with a grin, quickly turning back to the apprentice den to wake up Redpaw, ready to try his best today. He was really hoping to have his warrior name before the gathering, especially if there was a chance that Frostpaw and Duskpaw would be there. May that will convince them to come home..
Owlwing was checking the paw pad of Shadowtail when Morningpaw walked in. "Bee sting, you take care of it while I eat." He told her as he moved away from the black and white warrior. He took the shrew from her and mumbled his thanks, moving outside of the den to enjoy his meal. He was confident that she could handle this. She did well with Briarshine's kitting and towards the end he allowed her to do most of the work. He thought hard for a moment, deciding that maybe a trip to visit starclan was in order soon, though the thought made him nervous.
Frostpaw released a sigh of relief at his answer. She wanted to see how everyone was doing. Especially her father. She was sure Aspenpaw was fine after a while, but she did fear the Morningpaw felt as though she was to blame because of the visions. Of course, none of it was her fault. When her brother mentioned their warrior names, she wasn't surprised, she felt that had been on his mind for a while. "We aren't warriors." She told him simply, taking another bite of their food. Choosing their own warrior names would be an insult to Starclan, something she did not want to risk. "If you don't want to be Duskpaw then just go by Dusk, but just know that if we change our names now, then Azreal will think we did it because of what she said."
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Post by Dawnmist on Jan 28, 2022 21:35:31 GMT -5
Morningpaw dipped her head at Owlwing and looked towards Shadowtail giving him her full attention. “Hi Shadowtail how are you?” She asked him before she started to search the medicine storage for blackberry leaves. “Ah ha!” She mumbled quietly to herself once she found the leaves. She grabbed them and sat near Shadowtail, “I’m going to chew up these leaves into a poultice and put it on your bee sting.” Morningpaw told the tom and waited for his reply before beginning.
Duskpaw sighed and laid back down to sulk, “you’re right..” Just in case they run into Azreal again he didn’t want her to think they changed their names because of her silly opinion. His guilt had eased since they have been staying in their new den, but thinking about his warrior name made it all real again. They would be apprentices for the rest of their lives because he made them leave. “I’m sorry, just another thing that’s my fault,” Duskpaw finally mewed, his amber eyes focused on the water once again.
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Post by Reden on Jan 29, 2022 11:24:25 GMT -5
Shadow tail nodded as he watched the she-cat at work. “Broarshine told me that you did very well during the kitting.” He mewed, giving the silver she-cat a thankful purr. He could remember when aged and her siblings were the same size, tiny little things. Aspenpaw, Redpaw and Duskpaw would follow him around asking for stories of his adventures outside the camp. He would always make them sound scary, though Aspenpaw often took that as a challenge. “Your brother is becoming a fine warrior.” He added, unsure on how to make conversation. He hard hardly ever gotten the chance to speak with Morningpaw since she m on bed from the nursery. “Briarshine mentioned that Owlwing is having you see most of the cats that come in here now. I’m sure both of you are excited that you are almost done your apprenticeships. I remember my naming ceremony to this day.” He added fondly, feeling nostalgic.
Frostpawgave Duskpaw a gentle look, seeing his frustration. “It will be okay.” She told him, unbothered by the names. Though she could sympathize with her brother, he probably feels as though they lost out on everything they had been looking forward to. “We should find out where the Forestclan border is.” She told him, pawing at a small stray pebble in front of her. She had a vague idea from what that warrior said, but she was worried that they were too close for comfort. There was nothing stopping them from chasing her brother and herself away if prey gets hard to come by. The one thing they had was the river but that wouldn’t be a reliable source for food in the winter if it freezes. “We may have to move back to the twoleg place in leaf-bare.”
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Post by Dawnmist on Jan 29, 2022 12:25:55 GMT -5
Morningpaw let out a smile when Shadowtail mentioned that Brairshine said she did well during the kitting, she had done everything she knew and could to make Brairshine feel comfortable. A sense of pride washed over her, she couldn’t make her siblings come back home but at least she was doing something right. “Thank you, I’m lucky to have been trained by Owlwing,” she mewed and began licking the poultice onto Shadowtails bee sting, listening to the tom while he spoke. She finished up and looked up to him, “Aspenpaw is, he’s going to be a great warrior.” Morningpaw replied to the tom and paused for a moment before continuing, “I am so excited to get our names, I hope we get to have our naming ceremony together.” She mewed excitedly at the thought, she hoped they would get their names before the next gathering. She wanted their siblings to be proud of them, those two were now rogues living a whole new life. Surely they’d be happy for them getting their names?
Duskpaw looked at Frostpaw as she spoke, “can we not worry about that now? It’s just the beginning of green-leaf.” He mewed and glanced back to the river, “besides, that tom was way off from his territory, and you know how big Forestclans territory is.” He mewed as he thought of the clans' territory lines, both clans and had quite a lot of land. Duskpaw wouldn’t let anyone run them off from their spot, the clans had plenty of land with prey. His mind running with thoughts he side eyed Frostpaw, “what we should find out is if the third clan tale is just a tale, or if it’s true.” He mewed curiously, the elders that told the stories always seemed so serious. Maybe it was a tale for kits because no one else wanted to believe it was true.
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Post by Reden on Jan 29, 2022 14:56:18 GMT -5
Shadow tail nodded as she spoke, sensing her excitement. “I’m sure that’s what Moonstar will do.” He told her with a flick of his tail. When she was finished he looked at his paw for a moment before saying thanks. He turned and walked out of the den, making sure not to rub off any of the medication. “A fine apprentice you have there.” He told Owlwing as he passed.
“I know, I know. Now stop stepping on bees, you take up the whole den when you come it.” Owlwing snapped in response, annoyed that his meal was disturbed and even more annoyed when Shadowtail laughed it off as if Owlwing made some sort of joke. Owlwing grumbled as he watched the warrior walk away. “Every, single greenleaf...fox dung for brains, I swear.” He said to himself as he continued to eat his shrew.
Frostpaw shifted onto her side as he brother spoke. “Well we need to make sure we don’t fool around if you want to stay here. If the river freezes then we may have to hunt close to the borders.” She stated. She gave Duskpaw her complete attention as he spoke, tilting her head as he once again mentioned the legendary third clan. She glanced around as she tried to remember the tale, she never really paid attention to it. “Well, all I know is that they used to be where the twoleg place is...supposedly.” She told him, wondering why he was so curious about it. “No one even knows the clan name or anything though. It just a ‘There was once a third clan...blah blah blah.’” She added, rolling onto her back to enjoy the sun some more.
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Post by Dawnmist on Jan 29, 2022 16:44:39 GMT -5
Morningpaw cleaned up the leaves and poultice left over and exited the den shortly after Shadowtail did. She looked at Owlwing and put her ears slightly back, “could I talk to you? I think I got another omen..” She mumbled the last part, but genuinely wanted his opinion about it. She had come up with some sort of conclusion about it, and that was that something bad was going to happen to Duskpaw and Frostpaw.
Duskpaw rolled his eyes, “you don’t believe anything.” He slightly teased Frostpaw and laid on his side. Feeling his fur soaking in all of the sun, he closed his eyes to enjoy the moment.
Azreal could smell their faint scent, Frostpaw and Duskpaw that is. She was now in the forest and was getting closer to finding them, she had a plan and had everything ready. Approaching the river their scent got stronger, she narrowed her amber eyes and got a glimpse of them by the water. She took a deep breath, preparing herself. She broke into a run towards them, “Duskpaw! Frostpaw! I need your help! It’s Foxspots,”
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Post by Reden on Jan 29, 2022 20:29:00 GMT -5
Owlwing stopped eating and sat up as soon as Morningpaw spoke. His ears pinned back as he thought about what she said. He normally would never question StarClan, but it seemed as if they were torturing this poor kit...no, not kit, Morningpaw was nearing her 12th moon, he could no longer look at her as if she was a hopeless kit without a care in the world. “Another..” he said under his breath. He glanced around the clearing before standing up all the way. “We should go tell Moonstar, I don’t want to delay.” He told her, making his way to the leader’s den quickly, though making sure he would not be noticed by others. “I want you to tell us everything, any feelings you had, sensations, what you saw...all of it.” He told her before announcing their arrive to Moonstar.
Frostpaw tolled her eyes at Duskpaw’s words. “I’m just being realistic, that’s all.” She told her brother. She enjoyed the moment of peace before jumping to her paws at the sound of paw steps, she was ready to fight when she saw Azreal trotting towards them. Frostpaw watched the dark tabby closely, not surprised by her sudden appearance. She wanted to question the she-cat, ask why it would concern them but she held her tongue, remembering how upset Duskpaw had gotten earlier. If Azreal noticed any tension between the siblings, Frostpaw was sure that she would dig her claws in and meddle. The pale she-cat glanced to her brother, a look of irritation on her face as she sat down.
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Post by Dawnmist on Jan 29, 2022 21:25:59 GMT -5
Moonstar dipped her head at Owlwing and Morningpaw at they entered her den, “hey you two, how has Brairshine and her kits been?” She mewed and sat down facing them. They obviously came in to tell her something, but she was curious about Brairshine and the kits. Since the kitting she wanted to give the she-cat some space. But she couldn’t help to notice Owlwings disturbed expression on his face, “is everything alright with you two?” Moonstar asked, slightly observing them with her blue eyes.
Morningpaw dipped her head back at the leader and sat down, “Brairshine and the kits are great,” she replied to her. She thought back to her dream, knowing she was going to have to explain every detail to both of them. “Everything is fine, it’s just that I got an omen last night. I think it was about Duskpaw and Frostpaw.” Morningpaw paused for a moment, her mind racing once she mentioned the two. “It was like the last time, but I didn’t see four fish, I saw two. Which I am assuming is Frostpaw and Duskpaw. The fish appeared out of nowhere with bloody scratches all over them. I think something is going to happen to them..” She trailed off and looked at Owlwing, waiting to see what the tom was going to say.
Duskpaw jumped up at the sight of Azreal, anger once again pulsing through his veins. What did Duskpaw and Frostpaw have to do with Foxspots? He took a step towards Azreal and let out a low growl, “unless he’s bleeding out I couldn’t care less, and even then, I care very little.” He snapped at the she-cat and took another step towards her.
Azreal wanted to roll her eyes at their reaction but she had an act to keep up. What selfish kits, she thought as Duskpaw took a step towards her. “Well good guess because he is,” she growled under her breath, “please help me.” She mewed, trying her best to sound sincere. She looked to the ground as if she were begging for their help.
Duskpaw scoffed, “too bad it’s not you bleeding out,” he commented with a smirk on his face. He looked back to Frostpaw, “I suppose we could help the tom?” He asked her for her opinion, if she didn’t want to they wouldn’t. It was simple.
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Post by Reden on Jan 29, 2022 21:54:45 GMT -5
Owlwing stayed silent while Morningpaw spoke, listening to every detail. When she was finished, he thought for a moment before looking to Moonstar. "I would like to take Morningpaw to the moon stone." He told their leader, though his tone was not asking for permission. He was concerned as to why starclan was sending these messages to Morningpaw in the first place. They were unclear, and seemed to serve only as vague warnings. Where Frostpaw and Duskpaw a danger to the clan? Why did they appear before her covered in scars? So many questions left unanswered. "I would like to leave tonight if possible." He added, this time actually asking for permission. Briarshine's kits were very young, and the journey would cause them to be away for an entire day. Morningpaw was completely unable to go without him as well. However, if there was a danger, they needed to know soon. He glanced to the two she-cats with an unreadable gaze, clearly deep in thought.
Frostpaw was taken aback when Duskpaw asked for her opinion, but also by Duskpaw's words. She had never seen him so aggressive, or wish death upon anyone. She glanced to Azreal, not believing a word the she-cat was saying. However, she worried that if Foxspots were to die, Duskpaw would be unable to forgive himself. She glanced back to her brother as she examined him quickly, taking in his posture and expression. Releasing a small sign, she stood, looking to Azreal as she stepped forward, only a whisker away from Azreal. She wanted to question why Azreal would even think to come to them for help, but she recalled Morningpaw showing them her training when they were kits. Frostpaw doubted that any rogues or loners would have even that basic knowledge. Frostpaw went against her gut instincts, not wanting her brother to become anymore tainted than he already was. "If you try anything, then I will kill you." She hissed to her mother under her breath, hoping her brother could not hear her words. She looked to Duskpaw. "You go ahead and I'll bring up the rear. Azreal will stay in the middle." She suggested.
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Post by Dawnmist on Jan 29, 2022 22:52:39 GMT -5
Moonstar listened to Morningpaw as she described her omen, thinking of the possibilities of what it could mean. The she-cat was so young to be receiving so many omens, so she was quick to agree with Owlwing. “Of course Owlwing, I trust your opinion.” She mewed and dipped her head at the tom, she respected the tom greatly since he had always had such good judgement. “Brairshine and the kits will be fine, it’s been a few days already.” Moonstar reassured the two medicine cats standing in front of her.
Morningpaw nodded at Owlwing, she had always had trust in him. So she knew he was making a good choice, and it was time to find out what the omens meant. She dipped her head at Moonstar and stepped out of the leader's den. She waited for Owlwing and stood next to him, “when do we leave? I’ll make sure everything is done before we go.” Morningpaw mewed to him, she would need to spend a bit of time with Aspenpaw and Silvermist before they leave.
Duskpaw nodded at Frostpaws agreement and took the lead. He asked Azreal where he was going and listened to her directions, taking them out of the thickness of the forest and towards the twoleg town. They approached the first house with a tall wooden fence, which Azreal instructed to jump onto. He quickly questioned himself as to why he was listening to her. He could hear the faint barking of dogs in the same yard. He shook his pelt and jumped onto the fence, Azreal jumping up after him. Duskpaw seen two fairly large dogs run towards the fence they were standing on, he puffed out his fur and flashed an angry look to Azreal, “Where’s Foxspots?” He growled.
Azreal felt fear pump through her as the dogs ran up the fence, but she kept her cool and looked at Duskpaw. She signaled towards the house, where Foxspots body lay on his side covered in blood. “There’s a small hole under the fence over there, you should see if you follow the fence. Me and Frostpaw will distract the dogs,” Azreal said with her voice shaking.
Duskpaw dipped his head, hoping they would be able to distract the dogs. He jumped down from the fence and quickly trotted along the fence looking for the hole Azreal was referring to.
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Post by Reden on Jan 29, 2022 23:23:31 GMT -5
Owlwing didn't give Morningpaw even a glance as they left the den, his amber eyes burned with determination. He had a bad feeling. "Right now." He told her, walking past the entrance of the medicine cat den. "Everything will be fine, let's go." He told her, not wanting her to race off to try to fix or finish anything, they didn't have a lot of time. It took a long time to get to the moonstone, especially since they could not take any herbs to help with the exhaustion. Unlike when warriors go, a medicine cat must go a slow, cautious pace. A run in with an angry fox or rogues could cause one to never see their destination. "Do you remember your first journey to the moonstone?" He asked, referring to when she had first became his apprentice many moons ago. Unlike then however, they will not be able to walk across the frozen river, they would have to be selective of the path they took.
Frostpaw could not prevent her shocked expression as she saw the broken body of Foxspots. She narrowed her eyes to try to see if he was breathing, but she could not make out if he was alive or dead. She gave Duskpaw a reassuring nod, feeling glad that she had made the decision to follow Azreal. She watched as her brother disappeared and took a deep breath. She glanced over to Azreal and looked back to Foxspots. "I'm sorry for what I said." She told the she-cat, feeling regret for her previous words. What if she had caused Azreal to give up and leave, Redpaw's father would have no chance of survival. She dug her claws into the wood, jumping slightly as the dogs snapped their jaws at the two cats. She released a hiss anytime they seemed to start to lose interest, quickly gaining back their attention. "How did he even end up in there?" She asked her mother, trying to hid her fear as the hounds growled and barked, nipping and clawing at the fence.
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Post by Dawnmist on Jan 30, 2022 0:12:38 GMT -5
Morningpaw nodded disappointedly as she walked next to Owlwing as they now began their journey to the moonstone. She thought back to what Aspenpaw had said this morning, that they would have dinner together with Silvermist. She shook the thoughts away, everything would be okay. Surely Moonstar would tell them if they got worried enough. She glanced over to Owlwing when he questioned her, “I do, it was a long and cold trip.” Morningpaw scoffed slightly, reflecting back to the trip many moons ago, it was leaf-bare and they crossed the river by walking over it since it was frozen. She wondered how they would get over this time, but she would worry about it once they got to that point.
Azreal looked over to Foxspots, only feeling a bit of guilt. Surely he wasn’t dead, right? She thought back to how she got him to go into the fence, she had somehow convinced him that the twolegs always threw away the best food in the trash. Ha, what a fool. She glanced over to Frostpaw and watched how scared she was of the dogs, wanting to let out a laugh but held it in. “Well we were hungry, and the twolegs here throw out great food..” Azreal watched the dogs closely, waiting for the perfect moment. She caused herself to lose her balance and grabbed onto Frostpaw, then using all of her strength she pushed the small she-cat forward towards the dogs. Letting out a laugh as she watched the she-cat fall into the barking dogs.
Duskpaw found the opening quickly and put his body halfway through the hole and looked over to where Azreal and Frostpaw were, making sure they were still distracting the dogs. He squeezed his body all the way through but had a feeling to keep his eyes on the two she-cats on the fence. The dogs were jumping maybe a whisker away from them, making him feel nervous. Suddenly he sees Azreal lose her balance, he takes a step forward anxiously as she grabs onto Frostpaw. Next thing he knew Azreal had pushed Frostpaw into the yard at the dogs, panic and rage surging through every inch of his body. Duskpaw threw himself forward, running as fast as his legs could take him. Not thinking a single thought he jumped at one of the dogs, raking his claws down the dogs back. Too many yowls and yelps he couldn’t tell if Frostpaw was okay, panic making his heart beat out of his chest. Once he made sure his sister was okay Azreal had it in for herself.
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Post by Reden on Jan 30, 2022 0:36:17 GMT -5
Owlwing nodded at her response, eyes remaining forward as they traveled over the stones. He could sense how disappointed she was about them having to leave now, but it was an unfortunate thing that she would have to get used to. Medicine cats must always place the clan before themselves or their family. You gave soul and body to starclan and the clan, something that many struggled with. "How are you with swimming?" He asked, wanting to figure out what route would be best for them to take. Either way was about the same, but he found the water kept away rogues and foxes. Forestclan had always been respectful whenever he would run into them, so they were of little concern. The brown cat continued to think about what the message meant, he had never seen one so vague before. He wanted to ask Morningpaw more, but felt it would be best to allow her to figure it out with Starclan herself. He could only guide her at this point.
Frostpaw didn't have time to react before she found herself falling into the yard. The two dogs had jumped back, surprised by the hiss she had released out of instinct when she felt claws dig into her pelt. The she-cat landed on her side with a thud, feeling air leave her lungs. Quickly, she jumped onto her paws and attempted to scramble up the fence, feeling the hot breath of the dogs on her back as they growled and barked. She stared up at Azreal with wide eyes, halfway up the fence within a second of when she had been thrown, however, she broke eye contact with her mother as soon as she found herself suddenly no longer able to climb further. She turned her gaze to see herself eye to eye with the dog, her tail clamped tightly in it's jaws. The realization of what just happened caused pain to flood her senses. frostpaw released a yowl of pain and free in response. She felt herself be torn away from the safety of the fence and the world became a blur as she was tussled by the creature. However, it soon released it's grip with a loud yelp, causing her to once again fall to the earth. The second dog raced to her, Frostpaw once again rose to her feet and hissed but the intense pain left her slow to react, and she was pawed away by the creature.
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Post by Dawnmist on Jan 30, 2022 1:38:16 GMT -5
Morningpaw shrugged as she trotted next to Owlwing, “I used to love swimming when I was a kit.” She replied to him, “so I should be alright at it.” She smiled. They began to enter the forest, the trees now blocking the sun. Green leaf where they live got fairly hot, even though it was just the beginning of the new season the shade still felt nice on her pelt. “Are you planning on swimming across the river?” She asked the tom curiously.
Duskpaw pulled back on the dog, tightening his grip. He now had Frostpaw in his full view, he could see her trying to climb up the fence. Come on you got it, his thoughts ran as he watched her. His body felt as though it had deflated as he watched the second dog bite her tail off, feeling weak from all of the blood. How could I have let this happen? Suddenly the anger rushed through him again and he tightened his grip on the dog once more but the dog threw him off. The dog hovered over his body, it’s slobber dripping onto Duskpaws pelt. He looked for an escape but before he knew it the dog snapped at his face, he moved his face to the side but the dog was quick and bit his muzzle. Letting out a howl, Duskpaw lashed out viciously and repeatedly at the dog's eyes, not taking a second to think. He could feel blood from the dog trickle down his paws and heard it yowl as it jumped back. Duskpaw jumped onto his feet quickly facing the dog, blood now dripping from the dog's face, as well as his own.
Azreal watched the fighting unfold and made the decision to retreat, she jumped down from the fence feeling a sense of satisfaction. She would come back to see the aftermath of the fight, she knew it couldn’t end well.
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Post by Reden on Jan 30, 2022 2:11:11 GMT -5
Owlwing nodded. "As long as you feel confident, if you aren't positive then it's best to go through the forest on the south side of the mainland." He told her. If she got swept away by the river, it would just add more time than if they went through the trouble of going through forestclan territory. However, he was sure she would be fine, she was an isletclan cat after all. Kits are often better at swimming than running by the time they are apprentices. The isle made everything safe, but did not provide much room for running around. The brown cat continued to lead the way, not slowing his pace as they talked, there was no time for them be idle.
Frostpaw yowled again as she dug her claws and fangs into the dogs leg, drawing blood. She was going off instinct, her mind was blank as she just focused on not dying. She was completely unaware when a large white tom appeared on top of the fence, opposite of the the hole that Duskpaw had used earlier.
The cat watched for a moment before moving forward, jumping into the yard behind the dogs, his white fur bristled as he hissed, gaining the dogs' attention. "Run!" He told Duskpaw, ignoring Frostpaw and Foxspots, surely they were both goners. The Orange and white tom was either dead of drawing his last breaths and the she-cat would likely bleed out by tomorrow morning. He arched his back as the dogs approached him, making sure to gain all of their attention. When they moved to strike, he dashed to the side, before leaping onto the fence. The cat walked along the fence, striking and hissing at the dogs while he waited for Duskpaw to escape. He lead them as far from the hole in the fence as he could, growling insults to them between strikes.
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Post by Dawnmist on Jan 30, 2022 3:49:07 GMT -5
Something urged Morningpaw to go with the option of going through the forest, even though she was fine to swim. The urge was too much to ignore, “I think it’s best we go through the forest,” she mewed, hoping it wouldn’t irritate the tom to take the longer way. She remembered how fast the last omen had come into place, that same day she got the omen everything fell apart. Could it be happening now?
Duskpaw didn’t even turn when he heard a voice tell him to run, he focused his gaze on Frostpaw and ran over to her. “It’s okay, it’s okay,” he whispered to her as he hovered over her bloody body. How did it come to this? He would do anything to protect her, yet here she was bleeding out in front of him. He grabbed her by scruff and began dragging her to the hole he had come in from.
Mara scrambled through the small hole to find Duskpaw dragging Frostpaw towards her. She turned around and began frantically digging at the dirt to make the hole bigger so it would be easier to drag the she-cat through. She turned as Duskpaw approached, “I’ll go to the other side and pull her through.” She mewed and easily made it through the hole to the other side, she poked her head back through and grabbed Frostpaw by the scruff, dragging her through the hole with Duskpaw following.
Duskpaw looked up at the black she-cat that had just helped him help his sister, almost speechless. He was out of breath and adrenaline was pulsing through his body, “Th-thank you.” He mewed as he stared at her, her black pelt gleaming in the sun. He looked down to his sister, who was his main concern. He began to lick her face, “Hey are you alright? I’m going to get you help.” He promised her. He wouldn’t let her go, not this soon.
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Post by Reden on Jan 30, 2022 13:16:56 GMT -5
Owlwing said nothing, unbothered by the change in her decision. "We have to be careful then, unlike us, most creatures in the forest struggle during leaf-bare. Many cubs have left their dens by now, they tend to be brave but stupid, fearing the hungry they felt when they were first brought into this world." He told her. Isletclan often got fat on fish every leaf fall, allowing them to during even the coldest of seasons, leaving many of the young cats ignorant of hunger and desperation. Many newly born foxes and badgers remember the struggles of hunger during the first few moons of their lives, and will attack anything they can. Once they learn that the forest could provide them with easy prey during greenleaf, however, they usually avoid attacking anything the size of the two cats and seek out rodents and rabbits instead. He proceeded with caution, keeping and eye out for any dangers. He had experienced a run in with a young fox that was too aggressive for it's own good, a quick swipe to its' muzzle made it run off to it's den.
Frostpaw remained limp, feeling her body shake as she realized what had just happened. "I'm fine, I'm fine." She stated, her voice heavy with shock. She glanced around without lifting her head, staring up at the she-cat, for a moment, she thought it was Azreal coming back to mock her. She attempted to sit up, but her body was too tense to move. She shallowed hard, it all was so painful.
Henry jumped down from the fence and looked at the three cats. He walked past Frostpaw and to Duskpaw. "Would you like us to help you take her home?" He asked the tom quietly. The black cat seemed strong, sturdy build and knew how to fight. Henry was intent on bringing him to the group as soon as he could, and extending this curtesy would do just that. He was sure the cat would want his sibling to die where she felt safe, and that would also Henry more information on the two cats to help win Duskpaw over. "The other one is gone, but she should at least be comfortable." He added, glancing to Frostpaw. The she-cat was in rough shape, gashes on her body, her tail mangled, he shook his head. It was a shame, she had also been quick to react and fight back- another addition to his group he would have loved to have. He moved over to Frostpaw, and effortlessly picked her up by the scruff, glancing at Mara to help support her body. He gave Duskpaw a nod, wanting the cat to show him the way.
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