|
Post by FunkyFoxx on Oct 26, 2023 15:48:43 GMT -5
Synopsis + Content Warnings:
"Kin of his own will change the stars forever. The gentle fallen wing will bring destruction to the clan, while the fate of a true warrior will bring peace to the clans like never before"
FallenPaw was destined to be a traitor at birth. Destined to be a murderer. Due to this, FallenPaw struggles to feel welcome in the clan he calls home, even by his own father. Desperate to prove the prophecy wrong, FallenPaw may have to go beyond extremes to prove himself loyal... even if it means changing who he is completely
FatePaw, the tom, the brother, who is meant to end FallenPaws "treachery" with his own claws, has always been respected by all the clan for being a hero. But FatePaw doesn't feel like a hero: he doesn't want to kill his brother. Will he be able to steer his brother towards the right path and prove the prophecy wrong?
DewPaw, who hasn't spoken a word since birth. Determined to become a warrior, DewPaw trains as a warrior apprentice, refusing to let his disabilty pull him down, despite the protests of warriors around him. Being able to scan the emotions of warriors very well, DewPaw may start to realize way more than he ever intended to... How will these three young cats shove past these issues… And save their clan from an impending doom…? M. CONTENT WARNINGS: Blood, death, ableism, drowning, manipluation
|
|
|
Post by FunkyFoxx on Oct 26, 2023 15:52:34 GMT -5
Allegiances THUNDERCLAN
LEADER
OwlStar
A black tom with deep blue eyes
DEPUTY
FinShadow
Muscular brown tom
MEDICINE CAT
BerryBush
MEDICINE CAT APPRENTICE
FatePaw
WARRIORS
ThistleOak
BriarDust
ThrushFur
SandFur
YewClaw
TangleBush
MouseTail
GooseEye
BrightPelt
SwiftClaw
MilkFeather
HollyPelt
WeepingGaze
SilentStalk
Apprentices
FallenPaw
DewPaw
Queens
EchoWish
Elders
PoolWish
LavaBlaze
SHADOWCLAN
LEADER
OceanStar
DEPUTY
IvyThorn
MEDICINE CAT
ShadowPod
WARRIORS
TaintedFur
FoxSong
LostSoul
BristleFlame
FlameWatcher
AceStrike
DappledFur
DarkMoon
MoonLight
APPRENTICES
FicklePaw
BearPaw
ELDERS
ObsidianBlast
WINDCLAN
LEADER
CobaltStar
DEPUTY
TigerStream
MEDICINE CAT
LeafFall
WARRIORS
BrokenFur
NightHeart
SunLeap
MoonFall
DovePelt
AntClaw
FireEcho
GreyBeam
SoulWhisper
ELDERS
BrackenPelt
RIVERCLAN
LEADER
DarkStar
DEPUTY
SweetFlare
MEDICINE CAT
FlaneSpirit
WARRIORS
BrittleClaw
SeaFur
WhisperWind
HeatherHeart
LionFur
DuskWater
WrenLeap
DaisyCream
RavenShout
QUEENS
FreckleNose
SkyClan
LEADER
GullStar
DEPUTY
WrenSwoop
WARRIORS
RidgeSoar
AutummLeap
CedarStep
CypressStalk
JadeStone
NorthRain
OpalHeart
WillowFur
DaisyFall
QUEENS
FawnStep
APPRENTICES
RowanPaw
JunePaw
ROUGES/LONERS
Flare
Fickle
Snow
|
|
|
Post by FunkyFoxx on Oct 26, 2023 16:00:46 GMT -5
I'll post a chapter per day! I already have around 15 chapters posted, but I don't want to spam the thread! If you guys have any better schedule/chapter posting ideas, lmk!
Content warnings: Animal death, blood, drowning
PROLOUGE
The wind howled around camp, screaming like the prey under a warrior's claw. Rain poured down on the camp, soaking up in the green foliage underneath. Water poured down the sandy gorge, swallowing it slowly but steadily.
Warriors streamed out, eyes panicked, as the storm raged on. Tails streaking behind them, the warriors headed towards higher grounds. Older helped the younger, agile helped the slow. A frightened kit let out a wail, dashing around the paws of warriors. It slipped and quickly washed away, wail fading.
A molly dashed forward, screeching, as her kit was dragged away from life. Two others pulled her away from the water, and dragged the helplessly limp molly to safety. A low, mournful keening sound echoed from her. Her claws dug into the dirt as she thrashed, begging to save her only kit.
"MY KIT! My only kit! For the love of Starclan, let me go!" She screeched, a wild light glowing in her eyes. "I ALREADY LOST BLAZEPELT!!! DO NOT LET ME LOSE HER, TOO!!" but her cries were to no avail. Another warrior could not be lost.
StoneStar watched the scene, eyes mournful as he thought of the lost kit. Her name had been PuddleKit. She had been an eager kit, excited to save and serve her clan. Now, she'd only serve the stars.
Poor kit. She deserved so much more. StarClan, can you hear us? The leader whispered to the stars, eyes desperate. Why did they have to be so...cruel? Yet, the storm raged on, filling the tom's ears. StoneStar slouched down, hanging his head as defeat filled him to the core. His heart sunk in his chest as he heard more lost yowls, and he wanted to shut out the sounds. He couldn't do this...he was clan leader...and he was failing his clan. Shoulders hunched, he rose to his paws, staring at the ground.
Warriors streamed past him, barely rushing a glance at the defeated leader as they pelted to safety, letting out mournful yowls. I have failed my clan. OwlHeart will get them to safety. They will follow his lead, better than my own. He has always...been a greater deputy...then I have...
StoneStar had watched the young tom grow up, from kit to deputy. He had started as a shy kit, alone in the dark world as his own parents had been lost to a battle to twolegs. He remembered the mewling kit wailing for its mother and staring up at StoneStar with wide, hopeful eyes.
He had grown strong, and formidable. He would make a wonderful leader.
"StoneStar!!" The urgent voice of FinShadow jolted him out of his misery, and he looked up, head out of paws. Water streamed down the warrior's fur, and his eyes glittered with terror. The wind howled. "StoneStar!" He spat again, his fur rising twice his size in a state of loss. "It's... It's DewStream! She's giving birth!"
StoneStar groaned inwardly, rolling his eyes back with hopelessness. Right now? During a storm like this? It would shake the forest to its roots! "Now?" He echoed, his eyes wide and fur twitching. He shot to his paws, a renewed energy flowing in them as he thought of one of his clan giving birth.
"Come on," FinShadow grimaced. StoneStar nodded, his eyes wide as he started to pace. His tail swayed, and he quickly turned around, ready to dash back to camp. FinShadow did not wait for his leader to follow- he dashed off toward camp.
StoneStar pelted after him, his legs stretching. Why did this have to happen NOW? Why would it happen a moon too early? Frustration edged his thoughts as water streamed down his fur. He saw the desperate gleam in FinShadow's eyes as he caught up to the warrior.
He was naturally worried about his mate. It was no wonder. The two had grown up together, kit to warrior, never leaving each other's side. When DewStream's mother had died in battle, he had promised to never leave her side.
He wasn't about to abandon her now.
The two lean warriors came to a halt once they noticed a great channel of water blocking the way. FinShadow spat his frustration. "Great! Now we'll never get to her!" His hiss ended in a wail. Hunching in despair, FinShadow closed his eyes, wafts of mourning melting from him.
StoneStar frowned. He wouldn't give up on his clanmate so easily. FinShadow was shivering, his eyes wide and emotionless. StoneStar scanned the clearing, and delight fluttered in him. A log! It was skinny. But, it would have to do. It was lodged between two stones, one on each side of the temporary river. Small bursts of water roughly hit the surface.
I just need to tell FinShadow. He thought grimly, eyeing the log. It would be dangerous, with the water. Would FinShadow be able to get out of his despair to safely cross it? He didn't think so. The warrior had his head in his paws, moaning quietly.
But I still need to try. He thought. He walked up to the warrior and reached a paw forward, shaking the tom.
"FinShadow," he whispered, his ears flat on his head. "FinShadow, we can cross on the log," he spoke softly, his voice soothing across the windy storm. FinShadow glanced up, eyes wide with hope. His eyes seemed to ask really? We can cross? StoneStar directed his head towards the log.
Yes, my friend. We can. His thoughts whispered. FinShadow shakily rose to his paws, fur plastered to his sides. Yet, he heaved with determination. He looks like a LionClan warrior...
Ready to face anything.
FinShadow eyed the log, seeming to size his jump. He murmured something quietly and leapt on the log. StoneStar felt his heart catch in his throat as the warrior walked across, claws dug into the log. FinShadow stumbled, and StoneStar felt his heart lurch.
StarClan save him! Don't fall! He thought, eyes wide. What would happen if they lost FinShadow? That would leave the clan medicine cat and StoneStar alone to carry DewStream to safety, safely.
It wouldn't be enough. But FinShadow steadied himself and leaped onto the surface on the other side. Relief-filled StoneStar. They'd be able to do this after all! FinShadow looked at StoneStar, which reminded StoneStar he had to cross too. Mousebrain!
StoneStar leaped onto the log, creeping carefully towards safety. The log was slippery, and StoneStar had to dig his claws in to hold himself upright. He walked forward, and determination filled him. He could do this! He quickened his pace.
Suddenly, FinShadow let out an alarmed yowl, his hackles rising and eyes wide. What could it possibly be about? The wind blocked out all sound. FinShadow's eyes trailed over to the right, and StoneStar slowly followed his gaze, dread pulling his fur. Please don't let it be what I think it is...
It was a wave! Before he could do anything about it, the water crashed into him, throwing him off the log. StoneStar hit the water and shock filled him. Water streamed in his eyes and nose, and he rapidly swam up, trying to keep his nose upright. FinShadow got smaller until he was just a dot in the distance.
He had to keep swimming! He thrust harder, coughing as water filled his mouth and nose. His fur felt heavy in the water, and he sunk down, his legs slowing.
No! StarClan save me! StoneStar pleaded as he sunk below. His muscles strained with weakness, and his lungs screamed for air. Pain pressed his chest, and StoneStar wanted nothing but air.
Great StarClan, it hurt! Suddenly, though, peace overcame him, and everything was silent. StoneStar knew he was dying. He had a good life. Perhaps it was destiny for it to end. He had watched clanmates be born, and clanmates die. He had experienced the thrill of training a young cat, and to grieve of losing those beloved to him. He would finally see them again.
Darkness evolved around him, but all StoneStar felt was peace. Peace and hope.
WoeSpring pelted through the forest, eyes wide with dread. StoneStar had died. Now, he and DewStream's mate, FinShadow, were the only hope for DewStream's survival. And...it doesn't sound like it'll send well... WoeSpring thought, eyes dark. He may be a medicine cat, but even herbs might not be able to save her. How would FinShadow react? My friend has lost enough. He doesn't deserve to loose even more. He reflected on the time FinShadow had lost his best friend, BerryTail, to the harsh reality of sickness. He had grieved for moons and had changed.
He would've been lost, if not for DewStream. She had helped him with his difficult times, like he did for her. She lit a path in the darkness of his own mind and intentions and changed him for the better. FinShadow needed her. If she died... FinShadow had always been bitter when hurt. As if his own soul wilted away at the touch of loss...
Suddenly, light flashed in his gaze of view and his body started to tremble harshly. WoeSpring opened his jaw in a soundless wail as pain coursed its way through him, sickening to the heart. His hearing blurred and screeches seemed to echo around him, filled with the sound of agony and dread. It took WoeSpring a moment to notice it was his own screeching.
The light gave way to darkness as his eyes rolled back, and WoeSpring fell, spasms of pain flashing through him. He dug his claws into the dirt, and suddenly, a voice whispered to him. Kin of his own will change the stars forever. The gentle fallen wing will bring destruction to the clan, while the fate of a true warrior will bring peace to the clans like never before.
Pictures flashed in his head. A newborn kit being washed away, eyes wide. The limp body of DewStream was on the side, eyes lifeless, as two kits struggled to feed. WoeSpring noticed a shadow walk up, unaware of whom it could be. It glared down at one of the newborns, hatred in it's green gaze.
Suddenly the ground beneath WoeSpring's paws raced away, falling down into an endless black void. WoeSpring fell with it, a screech in his throat. He landed in what looked like camp. Thank StarClan! Perhaps it had all been a dream... Perhaps my vision and the flood weren't real! But with a glance at the sky, with a sinking heart, he knew he was still in his vision. The sky was red.
A splatter of blood dripped on WoeSpring's nose, and he flinched. To his horror, more seeping blood poured into camp, filling the clearing with the dead bodies of his own clan. Blood started to soak his fur, pressing against his chest and muzzle. StarClan save me! He pleaded, blood filling his nostrils.
He let out a choking whimper as a corpse walked into camp, seeming lifeless with the way it treaded. It was unmistakable to be one of the newborn kits from before. He walked across camp, unbothered by the blood around him. Deep gashes scoured the toms pelt. He should be dead! The tom was clearly a fighter. But not a gleam of gloating or glee filled in his gaze. Instead, his gaze was broken, as if beyond repair.
Then the voice came back, followed by others as it rose to a wail around the clearing.
Kin of his own will change the stars forever. The gentle fallen wing will bring destruction to the clan, while the fate of a true warrior will bring peace to the clans like never before. It repeated. Over and over again. Suddenly, the vision cleared and he was back in the clearing, FinShadow was staring at him in horror, eyes wide. WoeSpring found himself repeating the words, his voice shrill.
"Kin of his own will change the stars forever. The gentle fallen wing will bring destruction to the clan, while the fate of a true warrior will bring peace to the clans like never before!" He screeched, before sinking to the ground. Blackness edged his view. I'm dying. For the first time, a vision has killed me...my body is of no use, now. Dread pressed his fur as his life faded away, and he had one last thought.
StarClan, save my clan from the coming destruction. No matter what it takes.
|
|
|
Post by FunkyFoxx on Oct 27, 2023 6:51:48 GMT -5
Chapter one T rust. Trust was a concept FallenPaw never really understood. As the apprentice gazed around camp, he could feel the scorching glares of warriors rested on him. A few growls echoed around, untrustful at the sight of FallenPaw. FallenPaw stared at the grounds wishing a hole would open up and swallow him whole.
Why had they never trusted him was no clue. Surely there was a prophecy about him turning all murdery and evil, but surely they could see past the vision! FallenPaw's shoulders hunched. He would never be welcome.
Ever since he was a kit he had received dirty looks, sparks of mistrust and even more anger. His father tried to be nice to FallenPaw, but he knew just as well that he didn't trust FallenPaw, either. He pretends to love me, for the well of the clan. But I know it isn't true. FinShadow often curled his lip while speaking, and FallenPaw was always aware of the dagger glare rested on his back.
He stared at his paws gloomily, moping. What could he do to prove himself? Nothing. Clans saw cats such as his brother, FatePaw, as great and a hero to the clan. Why can't I be a hero, too? Why do the stars divide me from love? From trust?
He looked up. He spotted his mentor, ThrushFur, across the clearing. She was looking right at him, her gaze impatient as she seemed to be waiting for something. Heat filled the tips of FallenPaw's ears. Uh-oh. She must've called me when I was lost in my thoughts! Cross with himself, FallenPaw quickly hobbled over. Her ear flicked in acknowledgement of his arrival, gaze disapproving. She shook her head with a sigh.
"FallenPaw, please try to at least not get lost in thought. It smells like rain, I'd rather not get caught in it," her gaze watchful of his expression. FallenPaw tasted the air-she was right. Dampness soured the air. Uneasiness glittered in her gaze. No wonder she is so worried. She lost her kit, PuddleKit, in the storm. However, ThrushFur showed no sign of grief. However, he felt was hidden under her gaze. She's a strong warrior. I'm glad to have her as my mentor.
Suddenly remembering he wasn't meant to doze away, he shook his fur, embarrassment burning through his fur. Wanting to smack his fur, he kneaded his paws in the grass. ThrushFur said nothing, and glanced over. Her gaze rested on a pod of warriors. "SandFur! YewClaw! Would you like to join me and FallenPaw on a patrol?"
A sandy-colored tom slowly walked up, gaze calm, while the other stumbled up, eagerness in her eyes. A small lichen black followed, eyes quiet and wary. DewPaw. He's SandFur's apprentice. He walked with a limp, but caught up to the others. FallenPaw murmured greetings to the young apprentice, who nodded in return. My best friend.
DewPaw was mute, but a great apprentice neverless. He was probably the best in training-or at least, that's what the warriors said-- considering he and FallenPaw were the only apprentices who learned warrior training. His inability to speak did not change that. Not one little bit. Although at times he appeared nervous, he was actually quite brave.
The patrol padded out of camp, FallenPaw and his best friend flanking the back. No one exchanged a word, and the patrol headed towards ShadowClan border. FallenPaw quickened his pace, bored by the simple walk towards the border. Perhaps I could have a little...fun while doing this. He spotted a flat, laid-out stone and leapt onto it, making sure to be silent.
He crouched down to leap to another when SandFur glared back coldly, and stared. FallenPaw froze, wondering what he could possibly be in trouble for. All he had done was leap to a stone! It isn't fair! Why is he cross? FallenPaw thought, stung. SandFur's gaze narrowed.
"This isn't a game, FallenPaw." A game? FallenPaw knew that!
"I-I know that! All I wanted to do was..." He trailed off, silenced by the glare of SandFur. He doesn't want me arguing.
"Silence! You will not disrespect me by arguing! I am a senior warrior, I deserve more respect! Especially from the likes of you," he spat. The words struck FallenPaw like claws. He stared down. ThrushFur cut in, her gaze uneasy.
"He didn't mean any harm, SandFur. I am sure he's very sorry," she finished softly, her gaze silently challenging. SandFur muttered under his breath.
"He should know by now that messing around should not be encouraged during a border patrol. He could attract ShadowClan warriors!" He spat back, fur rising. DewPaw just watched, his gaze angry, but nervous. ThrushFur breathed in slowly, as if to stop herself from shredding the toms ears.
"Don't be such an idiot, SandFur. Warriors won't be attracted just because he leapt from a stone," her usually soft voice carried an edge of defense with it. "So I suggest you shut your mouth before you attract a bunch of ruffians with your loud mouth." SandFur stared, speechless, before muttering furiously and walking ahead. Looking pleased with herself, ThrushFur followed.
Feeling grateful for his mentor, FallenPaw grinned, his sour mood lightening. She showed him! Unlike many others, ThrushFur had been supportive of FallenPaw, ever since his kithood. She's like a mother to me. No wonder OwlStar choose her as my mentor. He wouldn't want to choose anyone who'd make me feel hurt. FallenPaw thought appreciatively.
Soon enough, the patrol reached the border. FallenPaw dashed over to a tree, ready to contribute his part to marking the border. He was rubbing his head against a drooping tree branch when the ground beneath his paws started to sink down to the side. Heart skidding, FallenPaw gripped the branch harder as the ground gave way.
The roaring sound of a river made him grip harder. ThrushFur glanced over at her apprentice, and panic filled her gaze.
"FallenPaw!" She screeched. "Hold on!" FallenPaw looked below him, eyes growing wide as the water churned beside him. A part of the branch cracked off and stumbled into the water, and was slammed into stone a moment later. Breathing heavily, FallenPaw dug his claws into the damp treebark. StarClan help me!
He shut his eyes, legs dangling in thin air. His claws threatened to slip, slowly easing off. FallenPaw gasped and lurched himself up, trying to keep his paws on the bark. Hurry! I don't want to fall in! ThrushFur ran over, as well as DewPaw, and they started to tug the branch towards land. YewClaw glanced at SandFur.
"We need to help!" YewClaw's eyes were wide with terror and worry. But all SandFur did was stare. What is he doing? FallenPaw thought, eyes stretching wider. Why wasn't he helping? A tiny whimper escaped FallenPaw as his grip loosened. SandFur hesitated, before slowly asking,
"Should we...really save him?" Shock drained from FallenPaw. Dizziness filled his head, as horror coursed it's way through FallenPaw's body, right to his heart. Perhaps he just doesn't want to risk his fur. It isn't because I'm FallenPaw. He tried to tell himself. But he knew it wasn't true. If I were any other warrior, SandFur would've helped. He knew with a certainty.
SandFur had never trusted FallenPaw. Ever since he was a kit. He had always been cold towards him, even judging. But I didn't think he'd let me die! FallenPaw thought, dread worming through his fur. He was going to die. Misery filled FallenPaw. Would ThrushFur or YewClaw say something?
Shock filled YewClaw's eyes, and she backed away from SandFur, eyes dark.
"You aren't who I thought you were." No anger edged her tone. Only regret. It filled the air. YewClaw glanced at SandFur before walking beside ThrushFur to help. ThrushFur however, looked like she was about to snap. YewClaw rested her tail on ThrushFur's shoulder. "Wait for after we save FallenPaw." ThrushFur relaxed, turning her attention to FallenPaw.
"We'll get the branch over land! When I say jump, jump!" She informed him, voice stern. But underneath the sternness was panic. FallenPaw numbly nodded, but he could barely notice his surroundings. His mind was on the fact this his own clanmate would let him die. All because of some mousebrained vision!
He almost failed to notice the yowl, "Jump!" FallenPaw glanced at the ground beneath him, and let go. He crashed against the floor and skidded towards the river. He dug his claws into the grass, steading himself. Ease filled him. He remained on the floor, dazed. ThrushFur ran to him.
"FallenPaw, just rest. We will return to camp soon enough, don't worry." She reassured, before whipping around to glare at SandFur. He then seemed very focused on a pebble by his paws. ThurshFur grew stuff and she growled. "SandFur."
The sandy colored tom glanced up, gaze defiant. Defensiveness glittered in his wary gaze and ThrushFur curled her lip in disgust. FallenPaw watched. He really feels the need to defend himself for letting me almost die! Bitterness tainted his heart.
"I had reason to not help!" SandFur said timidly. ThrushFur glowered at him. SandFur returned the glare. "You know what StarClan said about him! He's a curse! He'd be better dead. He's already a destined traitor." FallenPaw righted himself to his paws.
"I'm not destined to be evil. I can make my own choices! I don't care about some stupid vision! I won't let it stop it!" He spat, eyes damp. SandFur scowled, gaze full of anger.
"That's exactly what a traitor would say!" He whipped back to ThrushFur. "I don't know why you defend him so much. But of course, you've always been a bit daft." YewClaw shoved forward, eyes alight with rage.
"Take that back! She isn't daft, and FallenPaw certainly isn't a traitor!" The usual softness and eagerness of her tone was gone in a heartbeat. DewPaw watched, eyes wide. He drew his paws over his ears, shaking. It's not the fight that's scaring him; its the thought that he almost lost me. He doesn't want to be reminded...
"Yes. He. Is. StarClan said so! He will kill everyone, mark my words. He is a monster!" ThrushFur stared coldly.
"Then perhaps we shouldn't depend on StarClan as much as we do." Shock filled SandFur's gaze and he took a pace back, gaze dark. His eyes narrowed and he whipped away. Silence filled the area. It pressed against his fur. FallenPaw broke the silence.
"Can...can we go back home now?" He croaked. ThrushFur nodded, and the patrol walked back to camp. DewPaw was staring at the ground, his eyes filled with guilt. He feels bad for not being able to defend me. FallenPaw realized. He walked over to his friend.
"Hey, it isn't your fault. Please don't feel bad for not being able to help," FallenPaw pressed, butting his shoulder with his own. "ThrushFur handled it fine!" DewPaw nodded but stared at the ground. His tail dragged. A light breeze hung in the air.
FallenPaw flinched as a raindrop hit his nose. Then another. Soon enough, it was raining. Pelts soaked, DewPaw and FallenPaw rushed ahead, guilt forgotten. I was hoping not to get wet! FallenPaw thought, irritated. The sky was dark. ThrushFur looked at the sky and her gaze grew dark, and she quickened her own pace. She flinched when thunder boomed.
YewClaw silently padded up to ThrushFur and rested her tail on her shoulder, whispering something to her. ThrushFur relaxed a bit and the two mollys went ahead. They really do care for each other. FallenPaw thought wistfully, wishing his clanmates treated him like that. He frowned. ThrushFur and YewClaw seemed very close, closer than clanmates. He tipped his head.
Was it love? He wasn't so sure, really. It confused him. The patrol arrived to camp and ThrushFur walked to OwlStar to report. YewClaw started to follow but then glanced FallenPaw. She beckoned him over.
"Are you alright? That must've been a great scare," she murmured softly. FallenPaw just nodded. YewClaw went on, "I'm sorry SandFur did that. I never expected my brother's friend to do something like that." FallenPaw nodded again, but his heart lifted. Some cats did care.
"SandFur!" It was OwlStar. His tail twitched and rage settled in his usually calm gaze. Uneasiness filled SandFur's eyes and he padded forward. The camp fell silent. SandFur looked up at OwlStar, emotionless. OwlStar went on, "Is it true of what I heard? Did you refuse to save FallenPaw?"
Gasps filled the hollow. GooseEye eyed SandFur uncertainly and backed away as SandFur looked at him for support. A moment of fear reflected SandFur's gaze before it was replaced with cold determination.
"Yes, I did. But why should I care for what happens to FallenPaw. He's a traitor!" FallenPaw wanted to block all the sound out. He shrunk under his pelt as he felt accusing glares rest on him. Crouching down, he looked pleadingly at his father, FinShadow. But all FinShadow did was coldly stare back.
FallenPaw lifted his muzzle, eyes narrow with hurt. He wouldn't hide his anger, this time. His claws dug into the dirt. OwlStar stiffened and dashed down, eyes narrowed in fury. SandFur took a pace back.
"How could you?! He's a clanmate! A vision shouldn't change that!" He yowled. SandFur didn't respond. GooseEye walked up beside SandFur and looked at his leader.
"He's right, though. He's destined to be a murderer! He should've been killed when we had the chance!" Yowls of support greeted his words. Only a few remained silent.
OwlStar hissed again. "We can give him a life! Prophecies have been proven false before! More than once!" A few of the supporters of SandFur's claim seemed to back down. A few of them nodded in agreement. "I will not stand by and let you judge my warriors! This is over, I will hear no more of it!" He whipped around and walked into his den, tail down.
The clan fell silent, and warriors padded away. SandFur stood tensely for a moment before turning away aswell, muttering under his breath. They stirred around FallenPaw, a few looking at him with sympathy.
This is what it's like to be visioned to be evil. It's the worst feeling in the world.
|
|
|
Post by FunkyFoxx on Oct 27, 2023 19:32:43 GMT -5
Chapter Two authors note: The writing gets better, I promise. The first few chapters are really dramatic and not greatly written but it gets better!
CW: Heavy blood, animal death, abuse
FatePaw had always been destined to the stars. When he was born, the deceased medicine cat had received a prophecy about him and his brother. If you ask me, it all sounds very silly. FatePaw thought, shaking his head.
Why follow a prophecy that turned the clan against a clanmate? FatePaw knew better than to ask though. FinShadow would claw his fur off! Still, he wondered. Ever since his birth, warriors had treated FatePaw with respect. Everyone. They always made sure he'd been comfortable, often attempted to bring him offerings and there had even been an argument that medicine cats should have a chance to become leader!
At least, they had. Now they treated him more harshly, as if thinking he should have already done his "duty".
They also expected him to kill his brother, some day. Uneasiness pricked his pelt, sparking his fur. I don't want to kill my brother... And yet, everyone expected him too. They treated him like he had done so already!
He shook his head again, heaving a sigh. The heavy scent of rain filled his nose, and he couldn't resist the urge to look outside. The sky was dark, and rain poured down at a steady beat against the floor. A bright light suddenly flashed, followed by the clash of thunder. FatePaw jumped, startled. He then shook his head, musing. He needed to get back to work! The young tom was sorting herbs, arranging dock leave inside the top crevice. His nose wrinkled at the foul taste, and he quickly spat them into their holding area. Yuck! His muzzle curled in disdain, and he sorted the herbs some more. At least I don't have to stand out in the rain. His fur bristled as thunder struck again and he leapt. Fear plummeted him and he quickly dashed to the corners of his den.
Guilt edged his whiskers. What kind of medicine cat was he? A coward? Medicine cats aren't meant to be cowards. Not like me. He needed to get over his stupid fear if he wanted to help his clan. A snarl broke out from camp.
FatePaw dashed out to see what the commotion could be about. His heart sunk. It was SandFur. And he was glaring at FallenPaw with hatred in his eyes. SandFur had never trusted FallenPaw, FatePaw realized. He had always shone some scorn towards FallenPaw, even when he was a kit. It was like he thought FallenPaw was a murderer already!
FallenPaw seemed to shrink under the gaze of SandFur, tail drooping in the dirt. His eyes glittered with hurt, but shock too. His fur was ruffled, and his pupils darted around as if someone were going to leap at him and rip his throat out. Something must've happened at his patrol, FatePaw told himself. A tom only looked that frightened and angry after something eventful happened. And that something was most likely involved with SandFur. FatePaw knew with a sudden jolt that he had worried about his medicine duties so much that he hadn't even noticed FallenPaw leave for the patrol. Shame filled his heart. They had always said goodbye to each other before patrols! And I forgot... ThrushFur was already standing protectily close to FallenPaw, her gaze asking for a challenge. She stood tall, muzzle in the air as her tail lashed. Her eyes seemed to taunt SandFur silently. SandFur returned the look of concept, his tail brittle and still. He was clearly angry. FatePaw's heart pounded so loud he was afraid the whole clan would hear it and turn over to look at him as though he'd sprouted wings. I am scared. Again. And it isn't even me who is getting glared at by a warrior. Discomfort at himself fringed his pelt, and FatePaw was sure it would burn.
"Yes, I did! But why should I care for what happens to FallenPaw? He's a traitor!" SandFur yowled loudly, as if answering a question. Rage burned FatePaws fur, as well as dismay. What had SandFur done? He noticed FallenPaw look over to FinShadow, eyes wide with hope, but FinShadow had no attempt to stand up for his son. FallenPaw stared at the ground as if he wanted it to swallow him whole. But then looked back up, gaze angry.
OwlStar pelted down, swift as a rabbit. He was angry, really angry. FatePaw could feel the rage sizzling from his pelt.
"How could you? He's a clanmate! A vision shouldn't change that!" He yowled, voice rising above the wind. SandFur suddenly stepped back uneasily but relaxed as GooseEye stood beside him.
"He's right though! He's destined to be a traitor! We should've killed him when we had the chance!" A few cats turned accusing glares at FatePaw, disappointment in their eyes. It was as if they had expected him to kill FallenPaw already! What was he meant to do? What had they thought he could've done? Poison him? Claw his throat? Drown him? He's my brother, for StarClans's sake! I can't just kill him! He avoided the grudgeful glares of his clan, wanting to wail to the stars. Why me? Why do they want me to kill my brother? But the stars couldn't respond. Clouds covered them as it rained.
"We can give him a life! Prophecies have been proven false before! More than once!" OwlStar protested, voice commanding and loud. A few warriors stood back "I will not stand by and let you judge my warriors! This is over, I will hear no more of it!" He then whipped around, stalking into his den, leaving a trail of mud behind him. SandFur hissed in rage and turned away.
All FallenPaw did was stare, his gaze blank with shock and cold. He shivered, soaked. While the others had slunk away for shelter, he stood there, as if lost in thought. His claws dug into the dirt. Concern filled FatePaw and he dashed over to the herb store. Comfrey...marigold...thyme! He grabbed the thyme leaves and dashed out, setting them by FallenPaw. This caught FinShadows attention, and his ears pricked as he leaned forward to observe.
FallenPaw ate the herbs, and the shock from his eyes died down. He shook his fur out and smiled lightly at FatePaw, before turning away. Pride filled FatePaw. He had treated shock and had healed his clanmate from shock. Perhaps he could be a medicine cat! But his pride fizzled away as FinShadow walked over, gaze annoyed and bitter.
"FatePaw!" He growled, his voice stern. "Why didn't you kill him? You could've fed him deathberries, and the clan would be safe!" Dismay filled FatePaw. FinShadow wanted his son dead? He was kin! FatePaw knew the two had never shared the bond that a father and son should have, but he didn't think FinShadow wanted his son dead!
A wail built up in FatePaw's throat, although he knew it must sound like whining to FinShadow. "He's my brother! I can't kill him!" FatePaw whimpered, voice shrill. FinShadow looked at FatePaw, disappointment in his eyes.
"What have you become? A coward! A coward who's too scared to kill his brother that will ruin our clan." He hissed the last words through gritted teeth.
"I'm not a coward! I just...how can you expect me to kill my brother?" A bit of irritation ran through his pelt.
"Because you're a medicine cat! You should be able to give up everything for them! It's the clan's safety that matters. It's not about if you feel all sad." FinShadow spat. FatePaw felt the urge to cover his ears with his paws. Dismay rooted him to the ground, and he gazed at his father hopelessly, eyes wide and ears flat. Mud built up on his tail as it rained, soaking his pelt. There was silence. Silence of a voice, only wind breaking it. Rain flowed down his neck and back, cold and penetrating. But it wasn't as cold as his father's anger.
"You...don't care for me, don't you? You only care for the me that will kill FallenPaw, don't you?" FatePaw sniffled, eyes avoiding the gaze of FinShadow. His shoulders sagged. "You don't care for the part of me that's real. The real me, normal me...like a normal son?" His voice broke into a quiet sob, and small shivers shook his body. His sobs went on as he crouched to the ground, screwing his eyes shut.
FinShadow's hiss broke the silence. "Shut up! I lost my mate and my best friend in that storm! I've lost a lot, and all you care about is whether I love you or not." He sounded broken, but angry, too. FatePaw dug his paws into the muddy ground. FinShadow scoffed. "You won't even answer me! You're too scared to kill your brother, and you are too scared to talk to me. I don't know why the stars chose you."
"But do we... really need to listen to the stars?" FatePaw asked, the question in his mind coming out. He waited for an answer. Claws scored his cheek.
"Never say that again! I lost so much due to that prophecy, so it better come true!" And with that, he was gone. Pain sliced his cheek, but FatePaw didn't care. He padded to his den. Hunching miserably, he curled up in a tight ball. His tail drifted over his nose, and he closed his eyes. Sleep quickly found him.
FatePaw woke up in a starry clearing. He dug his claws into the ground, eyes wide. What was this place? Shaken by the sudden dream, he paced. Stars filled the sky, and the grass was a beautiful green. Trees were circled around him, stretching towards the sky and the stars.
His eyes grew wide. Was this StarClans hunting grounds? He suddenly had an image of StarClan warriors pelting towards him, eyes wide and mouth open with the endless wails of a prophecy. Dread surged his pelt. With the way his clan had expected of him, what if StarClan told him to kill his brother now? He couldn't! FallenPaw had done nothing wrong.
He swallowed, afraid that StarClan would know that he was shunning their all-knowing prophecy. He stood there, unable to speak, and then realized that if StarClan were mad at him, they'd have told him by now. You're a medicine cat apprentice for goodness sake! You shouldn't be scared of them!
Then...are you really a medicine cat? The voice inside whispered, outlining his own doubts. "Yes! Of course, I am!" FatePaw said out loud, trying to convince himself. "I treated FallenPaw! I am a medicine cat!"
"What in the stars made you talk out loud?" A voice grumpily responded. FatePaw whipped around, startled by the voice. His pelt pricked nervously as he saw the molly. She had a flat, broad muzzle, and deep amber eyes. A scar was across her nose. FatePaw glanced at the molly wearily.
"Who are you?" FatePaw nervously asked, heart thudding in his chest when the warrior walked closer. Her amber gaze was unreadable now. Stars covered her pelt. She was a StarClan warrior! His heart leaped in his chest.
"My name is YellowFang. I am here to talk to you about FallenPaw." YellowFang! She was practically a legend in ThunderClan! She had blinded her son, BrokenTail, and had killed him in the great battle. YellowFang seemed to read his mind. Her eyes glittered sadly, and she grew stuff.
"Yes, I did kill him. I was the cause of his other death, too." Her voice carried trauma, and her eyes seemed haunted. She'll never forgive herself for killing her own son. Even if it were the right thing to do. Was she here to tell him to kill FallenPaw?
"I won't do it! I'll fight you if I have too!" He said defensively. YellowFang just shook her head, but her face remained grave.
"I'm not here to tell you that. I'm here to tell you how you can change his path. Be there for him, always." FatePaw stared at her, gaze wide. He knew she knew there was a chance the prophecy could come true. But unlike other cats, she believed it could change.
Pictures flooded his mind. FallenPaw hunting, training, becoming more respected. Falling in love with a tom, raising adopted kits. Grinning as his kits knocked him over, eyes happy. His kits growing up, him training his kit, a rather unusual pairing. Then FallenPaw on a rock, much bigger and more determined as he puffed out his chest, looking down at ThunderClan. He was happy.
But then the bad ones came. FallenPaw leaving, gaze angry. Cats glaring. Blood soaking the camp, FallenPaw walking through it, gaze broken but bitter. Cats lay dead, eyes glazed. Throats torn out. stomach's bleeding. Then himself, leaping at FallenPaw. The vision ended. He looked at YellowFang, who looked back gravely.
"Any one of those could happen. You need to be there for him, always." She started to fade away, but her voice remained. "Be there for him, and help him. And perhaps, just perhaps, it'll save his destiny." Then her voice was gone, and FatePaw woke. Hope surged his pelt.
Perhaps I can change it. If a StarClan warrior believes me, then perhaps, real ones will too.
|
|
Aroace
adderfang
Hey I'm Adders. Might not be on a lot... but you can call me a friend! :3
Pronouns: She/her/they/them
|
Post by adderfang on Mar 24, 2024 18:50:41 GMT -5
This is a great story!
|
|