|
Post by spasticjazzhands on Sept 30, 2019 12:14:47 GMT -8
THE DOG PROBLEM ( 019 ) LAST MOON Silverstem had an exhilarating first outing since she joined TwistedClan. They had spotted a new bordering clan and found a new apprentice for the ranks as well. She had fallen to the back of the patrol with the young cat off to the side of Morningstar still unsure of everyone, and Rainsong was glancing off to the border every now and then. She was very glad there was no scent of dogs found on their patrol, but her heart sank at the thought of Copperleaf’s patrol finding anything. Silverstem only hoped she was strong enough to handle whatever life threw at her.
Spottednose was quite overwhelmed. Not long after the two dog patrols embarked on their journeys, Birchwhisker had gone into labor. “Just one more push,” He pushed another clump of soaked moss so the panting queen could lick some moisture up. He really hoped Birchwhisker only had this one kit to go; the first five kits already had sapped most of her energy. This better brighten some of the Clan’s spirits, Spottednose grumpily thought. The queen pushed out her last kit with a groan. “Very good.” Spottednose cleaned the kit so Birchwhisker could catch her breath. “It’s over.”
“That,” Birchwhisker whispered with her eyes closed. “was unpleasant.”
“You better have thought of potential names,” Spottednose nudged the six kits towards their mother to start to nurse.
“Stormstrike and I had shared some thoughts early on,” Birchwhisker craned her neck so she could scan over her kits for the first time. The two broke off, however, as they heard movement in the camp. “They’re back.” Birchwhisker narrowed her eyes. “I’ll be fine here for a moment. Go find out what happened.”
Spottednose nodded and headed out. “Copperleaf?” The deputy sized him up. “The verdict?”
“There’s more of them.” Copperleaf responded.
PRESENT Morningstar turned to the old tree next to her. The last time she was up there, Rainpaw become Rainsong. She glanced at her back paw and gritted her teeth. She would make it up there. “Do you need me to..." Sunchaser started.
“No.” Morningstar curtly said. She heaved herself onto the first branch that dipped close to the ground. She sat to recover her breath for a second. She was high enough anyway. “Let all cats that can are able to climb a tree gather below!” Morningstar yowled. TwistedClan gathered in bunches around the roots of the tree. Pebblekit was quivering with excitement. “Pebblekit, come to the base of the tree, please. You are ready to be apprenticed to Sunchaser. Sunchaser has shown excellent level-headedness, and he will teach Pebblepaw to the best of his ability.”
Sunchaser touched noses to Pebblepaw as the Clan welcomed the new apprentice by shouting his new name. Silverstem was the loudest voice of all. Morningstar clumsily slid down back to the ground.
“Congratulations, Pebblepaw!” Rainsong came up behind the new mentor and apprentice. “Sunchaser.” She nodded to Sunchaser, eyes adverted.
“Thanks!” Pebblepaw bounced up and down.
“You’ll have to come and practice with us.” Sunchaser said, but Rainsong was already moving back through the crowd. Morningstar witnessed this and sighed.
Stonefrost quickened his pace as he heard the loud noises of cats. He ducked underneath a low hanging branch as he approached the scents of many cats. He was pretty sure that the voices were shouting at the end of an apprentice ceremony. Thank StarClan, he thought. Another Clan.
Pebblepaw could not sleep the night after he became an apprentice. He was finally free of Silverstem’s constant watch, sleeping by Blossompaw and Nightpaw instead of the queens. Luckily Blossompaw turned out to be quite a heavy sleeper, snoring away through all of Pebblepaw’s tossing and turning. The moon had risen high in the sky by the time Pebblepaw had given up trying to fall asleep, and he tiptoed out of the cabin of sleeping cats. He was surprised to see a silhouette of a cat in the middle of the clearing, head towards the stars. Pebblepaw crept closer and discovered it was Spottednose looking to the sky. He stepped on a clump of crunchy leaves, alerting the medicine cat of his presence. Spottednose’s head snapped in his direction, and Pebblepaw sheepishly came forward. Pebblepaw would have preferred to curl back in his nest undiscovered by the intimidating medicine cat, but it was too late now.
“Cannot sleep?” Spottednose’s attention was fixed back on the night sky.
“No.” Pebblepaw sat a couple tail-lengths away from Spottednose. “Are you looking for something?”
“Can you see anything?”
“Just stars, I guess. Some clouds.”
“Me too.”
“Am I supposed to be seeing anything else?”
“I don’t know.” Spottednose sighed. “I just don’t know.”
“Silverstem is worried about the Clan.” Pebblepaw offered.
“Are you?” Spottednose turned back to the new apprentice. Pebblepaw fidgeted under the scrutinizing gaze.
“I-I don’t know.” Pebblepaw said uncomfortably.
“Hmph.” Spottednose huffed. “You shouldn’t be too concerned now.” He checked the sky once more and stretched his neck. “And I doubt Sunchaser would appreciate you being tuckered out before the first day of training, no?”
Pebblepaw felt like he had just been scolded. “I guess not.”
“Good night.” Spottednose resumed his stargazing position. Pebblepaw padded a few steps back towards the cabin but halted before he reached the entrance. When he turned around, Spottednose was only a silhouette once again.
When Sunchaser finally rolled out of his nest in the middle of the morning, most of the patrols had already left the camp. He didn’t mean to slightly oversleep, but he hoped it wouldn’t set them back. Pebblepaw was not deterred about the semi-late start to the day; actually, Sunchaser did notice he still looked a bit tired. Copperleaf, however, was wide awake and waiting for them by the fresh-kill pile. Blossompaw was nearby, observing Galapaw laying out some herb leaves to dry. Nightpaw was solemnly assessing the different kinds of prey in the pile while Ruststripe was trying to prod him into holding a conversation.
“I was planning on having on all of the apprentices knock out some swimming before the creek freezes.” Copperleaf stood. “And the water levels have decreased.”
Sunchaser was a bit disappointed that the first training session with Pebblepaw would be a joint session, but he didn’t dwell on it. “Perfect. Pebblepaw, let’s go.” Sunchaser’s confidence came back in a rush when Pebblepaw fell in step behind them, and Blossompaw had to be called twice by Copperleaf. I really can do this, he thought. So what if Rainsong has been particularly distant?
Rainsong quickly realized that Patchedmask and she never really set up another time for their next meeting. Her time was now spent on her normal TwistedClan duties and keeping an eye out on their shared border. She had discovered a cool formation of rocks near an old willow tree on the border, so she spent most of her time climbing and sunning herself. Only a few days after they had first spoke, Rainsong caught sight of Patchedmask. She stalked him through the bushes. "Hey!" She hissed to get his attention.
“Rainsong?” Patchedmask twisted around. “I’ve been waiting for you!”
Rainsong headbutted his shoulder in greeting. "Next time we should figure out when we should meet!" She chuckled.
"That might be a bit less stressful." The tom agreed.
"But let me show you something fun." Rainsong led him to her pile of rocks. "Up here I like to watch all the trees sway in the breeze and the leaves fall." The two perched on the rocks together. "I leave all my worries in camp. Up here I can just think about me. What's new in DewClan?"
“Not too much. A new warrior arrived this moon, and Dawnlight, a queen, gave birth. It was unfortunate because she lost a kit, but she’s happy with her three little kits.” He shrugged, and she quickly tried to take in all that information. “So, what’s new with TwistedClan? Last time you said things were tense, but we didn’t have time to discuss anything.” He continued.
Rainsong hesitated. She really didn't know this tom very well, and she didn't want Morningstar to think she was becoming unloyal to TwistedClan. But Patchedmask was being forthcoming and candid, so a little information probably didn't hurt. "Well, in the last few moons we had Stormstrike and Gingerblaze die. Some of us are worried that there might be some sort of curse in TwistedClan." Rainsong saw he was becoming worried. "Spottednose hasn't had any signs from StarClan, but it has been tough times." She added. "I don't know what to think."
Patchedmask frowned. “I’m sorry for your losses. I’m sure things will get better, if it’s a curse, a curse can’t last forever.”
Rainsong nudged his shoulders. "Thanks for the kind wishes." She mewed.
“No problem,” Patchedmask smiled, but it quickly faded.
"But I have to go." Not wanting the tom to protest, she continued. "There have been dogs coming closer and closer to our camp, and today we are finally going to take the fight to them." Rainsong paused, taking in a deep breath. "I promise I'll be back, though."
“Fight dogs? They’ll rip you to shreds! You can’t possibly fight them!” He yowled.
Rainsong looked at her paws. "I know, but we have no choice. They've taken Gingerblaze, and we can't have it happen again." She shuddered. "I hope everyone comes out okay, but life is never perfect. I'm glad I got to spend time with you today, though!" She tried to make her voice light but it only sounded tired.
Patchedmask sighed, resigned to the facts. “Stay safe, and you should get some sleep in if you can before the fight. You look exhausted.” He said gently, touching his nose to her shoulder. “If you can, meet me next moon.”
Rainsong leaned into his touch. "I will. I promise I will." She pivoted, carefully selecting the sturdy rocks to reach the forest floor once more. Patchedmask stayed on the top, watching her move. He looked very steady up there, so sure of himself and his next moves. She took in his silhouette. This might be the last time I see him, Rainsong thought. When she was younger and in the streets, she had seen death in all different shapes and forms, but she had never thought about her own death and how near it might really be. "Goodbye," She whispered once more and disappeared back into the trees to meet with her own Clan.
Ruststripe felt invigorated after taking all of the apprentices swimming, but his good feelings sank as they returned to a pacing Morningstar. Copperleaf and him both approached her.
“It’s time.” Morningstar snarled. “Get ready to bring the fight to those mutts.”
“Who shall I round up?” Copperleaf asked.
“Anyone who is able,” Morningstar decided. “Blossompaw comes. The other two young apprentices can decide for themselves.”
“I’ll ask Nightpaw,” Ruststripe turned and was startled to find his apprentice quietly sitting behind him.
“I’ll come,” Nightpaw responded quietly.
“I want to go too!” Pebblepaw shouted.
“You will not.” Silverstem interjected sternly.
Morningstar fixed her with a glare. “He is old enough to decide himself. If Pebblepaw wishes to fight for his Clan, he may.”
Spottednose approached the leader. “Can I have a word?”
“You may,” Morningstar and Spottednose edged away from the main group. Ruststripe shuffled closer.
“I’ve finally had a dream,” He muttered.
“And?”
“I didn’t see much, only blood on the leaves and barking filled the air.”
“Thank you for the insight.”
“I wish you well, Morningstar.”
“I’ll see you soon, Spottednose. I promise.” Morningstar touched noses to the medicine cat. Ruststripe felt a pang of jealousy and looked away guiltily. He was happy they were getting along again, but he wasn’t completely sure how far their friendship and relationship went. As the leader left, Ruststripe headed towards the other tom on a whim.
“I’ll make sure that she comes back for you.” Ruststripe said.
Spottednose scrutinized him. “I’m sure she would value your one life more than one of hers. Even if she doesn’t know yet.”
Ruststripe tilted his head. “So, you guys aren’t…?”
Spottednose sighed and rolled his eyes. “Definitely not. Go for it.”
Ruststripe smiled, a wave of relief flooding through him as he started walking back to the patrols forming. “Thanks for clearing that up.”
“Ruststripe?” Spottednose called after him. He paused, turning his head back. “I’m more into toms myself.” He winked. Ruststripe chuckled to himself. He felt more confident knowing that he didn’t have to compete with Spottednose anymore. He would bring hell to those dogs.
Nightpaw stood beside a trembling Pebblepaw, staring into the depths of the forest.
“Are you scared?” Blossompaw hissed. Pebblepaw jumped and spun around. The two molly apprentices were behind them. Nightpaw turned lazily.
“I’m not s-scared!” Pebblepaw protested.
Galapaw pushed Blossompaw. “Don’t tease him. I’m sure you’re just as nervous.”
Blossompaw scoffed. “I’m never scared of ugly ol’ dogs.”
“You should be.” Nightpaw jutted in softly. “I’ve seen them rip cats apart.”
Her eyes widened. “You have not!”
Nightpaw shrugged. “It’s not my duty to make you believe me.” He turned back to the forest. He blocked out their nervous squabbling now and calmed his heartbeat with the noises of the trees. What would happen will happen, and he liked to make the most out of every moment. The trees were calming. There would be nothing calming about the dog fight, so he had to make the most of it.
|
|
|
Post by spasticjazzhands on Sept 30, 2019 12:23:11 GMT -8
THE DOG FIGHT ( 020 ) LAST MOON Stonefrost headed up the back of Morningstar’s patrol. The silence was tense, and Stonefrost doubted himself for a second. He had just stumbled upon TwistedClan, and now he was ready to give his life for this Clan. He looked ahead at the other cats on this patrol. Morningstar, the leader of his new home, was at the front, her limp apparent but not hindering at the moment. Ruststripe, a large tom, was a half-step behind her. His demeanor still seemed calm, if not just a bit on edge. Rainsong and Pebblepaw were side by side. The quiet molly already unsheathed her claws; Stonefrost was not sure if she was that uneasy or rearing for a fight. The apprentice was small; he had just received his apprentice name and was eager for an opportunity to prove himself out from his mother’s watch. Stonefrost evaluated all of their motives with his own and decided to stay. He would fight for his new Clan to prove his new loyalty as well.
Ruststripe froze in his tracks. “Dog.” He muttered, gaze focused on figures sniffing around in the distance.
“Hold this position.” Morningstar crouched. “We will wait for Copperleaf’s patrol.” Ruststripe crouched down beside her, Rainsong to his other side, Stonefrost and Pebblepaw close behind. He was already tense from the prospect of fighting the pack of dogs, but they were slowly inching towards the cats. Morningstar straightened her tail to signal for complete silence. Frightened by the movement, Pebblepaw jumped and yelped. Stonefrost squashed him in the dirt but the damage was done. The dogs’ ears perked up, and a couple of them started towards the group.
Morningstar stood. The first dog stopped for a second, and the two made eye contact. Ruststripe didn’t dare to breathe, wondering who would move first. A low growl was heard, and Morningstar’s ears flattened, and her fur fluffed up. “Let’s go.”
Stonefrost and Rainsong sprang into action, racing behind Morningstar towards the dogs. Ruststripe hesitated, staying beside Pebblepaw. “Stay here.” He shoved him towards a bush.
“No!” Pebblepaw’s voice shook. “I will fight.” Ruststripe shook his head. It was Pebblepaw’s choice, and Ruststripe saw it was foolish but couldn’t stop him. Morningstar had given him permission to fight, and Ruststripe did not have authority here. He shook his head and vowed to watch over the young tom.
Rainsong let out a yowl as one of the stocky dogs took a swipe at her side. It missed but only by a whisker. She retaliated by clawing at its face, catching its muzzle and angering it. Stonefrost appeared by her side to assist in attacking the mutt until it turned tail.
“Thanks.” She said, out of breath.
“Save it for after this.” Stonefrost frowned as two more dogs circled them. The smaller of the two lunged and nicked Rainsong’s ear. She tussled with him as Stonefrost and now Ruststripe engaged the other mutt.
Pebblepaw had scampered after Ruststripe as he ran to help Rainsong and Stonefrost but balked before getting to the action. He noticed the other three dogs had focused their efforts on the leader and had her backing up into a corner. “Morningstar!” He yelled. Her attention snapped away from her attackers.
“Wait, Pebblepaw!” She hissed. Noticing its prey was distracted, a dog leaped forward and caught Morningstar’s hind end. Pebblepaw raced forward, and the biggest dog swung towards him. He could see Morningstar struggling to get back on her feet as the dog clamped down on her flank, and then the world started spinning as he flew in the air. He rolled in the dirt as the dog that tossed him approached. He coughed trying to regain his breath.
A different chorus of yowls filled the air. Even though Pebblepaw’s vision was now red, he could still make out Sunchaser sprinting to him. The second patrol was here! They would save Morningstar and-
Pain. Darkness.
Spottednose had his eyes closed, listening to the faint yells of his Clanmates in the distance. Birchwhisker startled him by stepping on his tail.
“Sorry,” She apologized. “I was just thinking that I could join up with-“
“Definitely not.” Spottednose snapped. “Your kits deserve a mother. An alive mother.”
“That’s harsh.” Birchwhisker narrowed her eyes. “Just because you would rather sit and do nothing, doesn’t me I should.”
“Well, I am going to do something. Galapaw,” Spottednose called and his apprentice appeared from the nursery. “We are going to collect supplies for the wounded.”
“Okay, but Birchwhisker is out there, and I am currently watching the kits.” Galapaw awkwardly glanced back and forth between the two older cats.
“I get the hint.” Birchwhisker rolled her eyes and disappeared back to care for her new charges.
“Hurry up,” Spottednose rushed Galapaw. “We have to be back before the patrol returns.”
Silverstem howled as she saw her son die in the jaws of a looming mutt. Her only surviving kit had just been tossed around like a plaything.
“Focus!” Copperleaf nipped at the distraught queen. “You are a warrior. You have to fight.” Silverstem stumbled, and the deputy shoved her again. “UP!”
She raised her eyes and saw Sunchaser jump at the offending dog’s throat. Something in her mind snapped. That dog would pay for what it did to Pebblepaw. And Silverstem wouldn’t rest until it was dead. Copperleaf and Silverstem rushed to the small warrior’s aid in driving the dog away. After a few well-aimed strikes at its underbelly by the mollies, the dog was whimpering and backing away submissively. However, Silverstem wasn’t satisfied. She kept clawing at the mutt, trying to reach its throat. After one blow landed and blood started to seep from its throat, it retreated into the distance. Sunchaser held her back so she wouldn’t race after it once more.
“The others need assistance.” Sunchaser wiped blood from his face. She wasn’t sure if it was his own blood or not.
“It killed my son.” She growled.
“And it regrets that.” Sunchaser passed her to join Rainsong to send another dog off for the hills. Silverstem grimaced. She would have time to mourn later.
Nightpaw and Blossompaw pushed towards the two dogs now pinning the leader to the ground. Nightpaw wasn’t sure if she had already lost a life or not, but he assumed she would lose at least one today. Blossompaw screeched as she cannonballed into the side of the dog closest to them. It let go of its grip on Morningstar, so Nightpaw focused on the other larger one. He batted at the muzzle holding on to the calico. As the dog was turning its attention onto him, Copperleaf suddenly shoved him away. Nightpaw fixed her with a puzzling glance.
“Leave her, she has lives to spare.” Copperleaf growled. There was a malicious glint behind her eyes. Nightpaw was taken aback. Out of the corner of his eye, he could see Morningstar struggling and then lie still. He ignored the deputy and pushed past her to nudge Morningstar’s body. The dog advanced on the three cats. Copperleaf bared her teeth in an odd grimace. Nightpaw continued to tap the fallen leader, trying to awaken her before the dog pounced once more while Copperleaf darted to the side leaving him. As Morningstar was regaining consciousness, he witnessed the other mutt, now being attacked by Sunchaser and Blossompaw, miss and claw the fleeing Copperleaf. Blossompaw screeched again as her mentor crashed to the ground, bleeding and motionless.
Nightpaw spun back to Morningstar. She was now struggling to her feet, major injuries healed for her next life but disoriented. “Get up.” He blocked an incoming blow from the large dog, and it ripped his tail. Pain shot through his body, and he curled his torn tail around his leg. He tried to retaliate, but he was now off balance. Thankfully, Rainsong, Silverstem, Ruststripe, and Stonefrost now had finished off the mutts they were tangling with and attacked the remaining mutts from their other side. With the help of the remaining warriors, the last of the dogs were finally chased off.
“Thank you, Nightpaw.” Morningstar rasped. “You all did great today.” She addressed the ragged group of cats surrounding her. “Now let’s regroup back at the cabin.”
“What about Pebblepaw?” Silverstem’s voice shook.
Morningstar’s expression darkened. “The fallen shall be honored for their warrior sacrifice. Let’s go home.”
Sunchaser and Silverstem walked back to camp side by side leaning on each other. Silverstem was carrying Pebblepaw with her head down, and Sunchaser couldn’t help thinking that he could have prevented his death. They were the first cats to enter the clearing. A pacing Spottednose greeted them. The medicine cat quickly ushered the two near the medicine store bush. There were herbs still being laid out by Galapaw to ready for the onslaught of possible injuries. Silverstem laid down her kit and curled around him. Galapaw sniffed the distressed queen. “Only superficial scratches here.” Galapaw reported.
“Good, bring some oakleaf and cobwebs for Sunchaser.” Spottednose pushed Sunchaser into a laying position. He grunted as his open shoulder wound was dressed. Galapaw met the next group of cats that straggled in. She rounded up more injured Clan members. Sunchaser was now joined by Nightpaw and Morningstar. Spottednose looked up from patting down the last of Sunchaser’s cobwebs. “Okay, Galapaw. What should you use for Nightpaw’s tail?”
The medicine cat apprentice slightly prodded the new jagged tip of Nightpaw’s tail who hissed in pain. “Cobwebs for sure.” She said.
“Obviously.” Spottednose now focused on checking over Morningstar. Deeming her fit enough to rest with no further attention, he joined his apprentice. “What else?”
“Um,” Galapaw nervously hesitated. “Thyme?”
“Why thyme?” Spottednose inspected the tail closer.
“For shock?” Galapaw shuffled her feet.
“Very good,” Galapaw straightened up by the rare praise from the old medicine cat. “Now go get them and some poppy seeds as well.” Galapaw retrieved the herbs and treated Nightpaw’s tail under her mentor’s scrutinizing eyes. As she finished wrapping the tail, Spottednose weaved around the rest of the patrol gathered around him. There weren’t any other outstanding injuries thankfully. Morningstar stirred beside him.
“Prepare for a burial.” The leader ordered.
“Yes, Morningstar.” Spottednose nodded to Ruststripe. “Move the dead for the vigil if you would.” Ruststripe moved to attend to the two bodies. “Being your medicine cat, I am going to recommend you sitting out for some of the vigil to get some rest.”
“No.”
“Your decision,” Spottednose hadn’t expected any other answer. “Get ready for the vigil.”
PRESENT
Silverstem approached Morningstar in the early morning. “May I have a word with you?” Morningstar didn’t seem very surprised to see the still grieving queen and nodded. “I was wondering if I could go back to being a queen. I don’t think I’m cut out to be a warrior.”
“I support your decision.” Morningstar assured her. “I also think Birchwhisker would be glad having another set of eyes to watch over her litter. They’re starting to become a pawful.”
“Thank you, Morningstar.” Silverstem ducked her head. She might still ask to be put on the occasional patrol, but nurturing was more her style.
Morningstar found Sunchaser alone at TwistedClan’s burial site. He was laying by the graves resting his head on his paws. She sat next to him for a while without saying anything. The flowers were shriveling up in the leaf-fall weather, but the grass and bushes still had a green tinge to them. It was a somber sort of beautiful.
“You didn’t kill him, you know.” Morningstar broke the silence.
“I could have argued or done something.” Sunchaser sounded defeated.
“No,” Morningstar said. “I gave him permission to make his decision, and he made it.”
“I still feel like I failed him.” Sunchaser shook his head. “And Silverstem.”
“You’re entitled to feel however you want,” Morningstar said. “but you have to move on. That’s what I’ve learned the past few moons. We deserve time to grieve and mourn, but life continues.”
“Thank you for giving me a chance, Morningstar.” Sunchaser stretched.
“You deserve another one. Since Copperleaf is gone, I am trusting you to continue Blossompaw’s training. Although Ruststripe will take her out this moon to give you rest.” Morningstar got to her paws and rested her muzzle on his head. “You’ll do fine.”
“Thank you.” Sunchaser closed his eyes. “I think I’ll stay out here a little longer.” She left him to his thoughts.
Birchwhisker watched her six kits clumsily explore the camp clearing. Thunderkit and Cloudkit were the natural ringleaders of the group. They felt brave enough to travel farther away from their mother and were Birchwhisker’s main concern about finding trouble. Maplekit and Stormkit were close behind them, not wanting to be left out. Goosekit was content finding his own space to sit and watch daily Clan life unfold in front of him. Willowkit was the most anxious and stayed within a couple tail-lengths of Birchwhisker. Now that Silverstem had become a permanent queen, Birchwhisker had some of her own time back, but her litter still took up a majority of her day. Morningstar limped up to the new queen. Willowkit automatically circled back, thinking they were going to get in trouble.
“Why don’t you go see if Goosekit wants to go bother Blossompaw?” Birchwhisker sensed Morningstar wanted to discuss something important and didn’t want a little one to get in the way. Not wanting to disobey an order, Willowkit scampered off to bother the apprentices.
“How are the little ones doing?” Morningstar tried to spot them all, but they were spread out in every corner of the camp.
“They’re too fast.” Birchwhisker chuckled. “But none of them have tried to go into the forest yet, so I don’t worry too much.”
“I’m sure soon they’ll be anxious to explore more.” Morningstar meowed.
“Don’t remind me.” She shook her head. “Have you thought about a new deputy yet?” She had guessed that’s what the leader wanted to converse about.
Morningstar sighed. “To be honest, I would choose you.” Birchwhisker just nodded. “But that’s not an option.” She continued. “I’m going to wait a moon to choose the next deputy.”
“Is that wise?” Birchwhisker had no intention of becoming deputy, but she did remember the warrior code saying a deputy must be chosen right away.
“That is going to be my decision.” Morningstar sighed. “Unless I lose six lives in one entire moon, it will be fine. I’ll just go back to deciding patrols, and a lot of cats are out of commission for a while to rest.”
The sun started to sink down in the sky. “I better roundup my little ones before dark.” Birchwhisker rose. “I’m always here if you need anything.”
Rainsong had finished her patrol with Morningstar and snuck away to wait on her and Patchedmask’s rock. She wasn’t sure if he was going to come today, but her heart ached to see him again to show she really was okay. She had been spending a lot more of her free time sitting on this rock; it let her feel free of her thoughts. Luckily, she heard pawsteps crunching on the fallen leaves, and he appeared. He leaped up next to her excitedly.
“Rainsong!” He exclaimed. “You’re okay!” He licked her cheek. She found herself purring content. She had been exhausted after chasing off the dogs as well as emotionally drained.
“Hey,” She nuzzled up against him. “I’m glad I got to see you again. How’s DewClan?”
He smiled and shrugged. “Okay, I suppose. Nothing much has happened.” He meowed. “It’s fortunate the clan isn’t suffering, but it’s kind of boring with nothing happening, you know? How’s TwistedClan? Did you win against the dogs?”
Rainsong leaned against the older tom. “Sometimes boring is better.” She shuddered and closed her eyes. “We got them chased away but Copperleaf, our deputy, and Pebblepaw died.” She sighed. “Morningstar lost a life too.”
Patchedmask frowned. “I’m sorry about your clan’s loss. They died honorably.”
Rainsong got to her feet and stretched. “Let’s go on a walk instead. Get our mind off our Clans, and we can just think about ourselves.” She playfully nudged him and leaped off to the rocks onto the ground. “Coming?
“Coming!” He joked. “Take the lead.”
Rainsong started walking along the underbrush. Patchedmask was trailing behind, and she kept her tail resting near his cheek. “I’ve never been this way before!”
“A little adventure sounds fun.” He chuckled.
She looked back and allowed him to catch up. “We can explore together.” She stopped suddenly however, and the tom ran into her. “Sorry!” She said. “But look!” She pointed her muzzle towards a giant willow tree looming in the path before them. The branches were hanging close to the ground and most of the leaves hadn’t fallen in the leaf-fall air yet. “It’s beautiful!” She gasped. This was a fun place.
Blossompaw plopped down beside Nightpaw who was sunning himself near the fresh-kill pile. The apprentice glanced at her out of the corner of his eye, but he didn’t make any other acknowledgement of her presence. This was not enough for Blossompaw, however, so she sighed loudly and shuffled around.
Nightpaw slowly blinked. “Yes, Blossompaw?” He succumbed to her antics.
“I don’t want to go out with Ruststripe to train.” She whined. “He’s gonna make me climb trees again.”
Nightpaw flicked his ear. Her voice was getting higher with every word. “Then climb a tree.” He rolled his eyes.
“I can’t!” She squeaked. “I don’t want to fall. Trees are so high up.” When Nightpaw didn’t respond, she continued. “Sunchaser is still resting so Ruststripe is taking me since your tail still is nasty. What’s he like as a mentor?”
“Straight. To the point.” Nightpaw rolled over to sun his other side. “You should feel lucky that you get to have Sunchaser as your new mentor, anyway. He’s much more attractive.”
Blossompaw scoffed. “I would rather just have Copperleaf back. At least I knew if she gave me a compliment, she really meant it since she rarely said anything nice.” She stopped talking when she saw Galapaw return from collecting herbs with Spottednose. Without saying a goodbye, she trotted off in their direction. Nightpaw resumed sunning himself in silence like he had intended to and was content.
|
|
|
Post by spasticjazzhands on Sept 30, 2019 12:32:52 GMT -8
THE RECOVERING CLAN ( 021 ) LAST MOON Rainsong returned from one of her and Patchedmask’s excursions feeling guilty as usual. It’s not like they had been doing anything explicitly wrong, but she did know their relationship wasn’t allowed either. Morningstar met her at the camp entrance. “Mind patrolling with me?” She asked, and Rainsong followed her right back out. “You’ve been out of camp a lot lately. Enjoying the leaf-fall scenery?”
Rainsong practically froze. “I guess.” She squeaked out. “Just taking more walks than usual.”
“If that’s all you are doing,” Rainsong could hear the edge coming out in the leader’s voice. She just looked at the ground and continued on.
“Who is it?” Morningstar called into the underbrush. A black and white tom stepped out into view. Rainsong bristled at the newcomer.
“Wolfstar of HollowClan.” The new cat responded.
“HollowClan?” Morningstar asked.
“We disbanded.” Wolfstar’s eyes were filled with sorrow. “We moved on. Is this a Clan?”
Morningstar nodded. “This is Rainsong, and I am Morningstar. You are welcome to take refuge in TwistedClan for the time being. But take note that you cannot continue to be Wolfstar.”
“Understood.” Wolfstar came closer. “I can go by Wolfclaw if that is alright.” The calico agreed, and the trio continued the border patrol swapping stories.
Nightpaw stirred from his sunning position when Sunchaser returned from his private vigil. He kept his eyes on the tom as he approached Silverstem and sat down next to her. Is he getting attached to her or still feeling guilty about her son? Nightpaw pondered. Rainsong has seemed to move on but has Sunchaser? Nightpaw stretched and shook dirt from his sleek black fur. His thoughts were interrupted by his mentor and Blossompaw returning from her climbing session. Her fur was still bushed from climbing up high, but Ruststripe seemed pleased enough with her progress.
“Lucky you got to lounge around all day,” She hissed as she passed the quiet apprentice.
“Lucky you didn’t fall and break a leg.” Nightpaw muttered back. Blossompaw huffed and stalked off.
“Be nice,” Ruststripe cuffed his apprentice’s ear. “She’s had a rough day.”
“I was being nice,” Nightpaw rolled his eyes. “She enjoys snarking.”
PRESENT Thunderkit was on point in his patrol. He could hear muttering behind him, and he turned and shushed the rest of his warriors.
“I am being quiet!” Stormkit protested.
“Not anymore.” Willowkit shoved her brother. They started to tussle in the dirt.
“We should go back to Birchwhisker.” Maplekit whined.
“No!” Thunderkit stopped her from turning back around. “We are almost outside of the camp’s boundaries. Just come a little further.” He pressed.
Cloudkit shoved Maplekit and Goosekit forward, and the four kits left their fighting siblings behind to step into the rustling forest. Thunderkit was lost now. He had thought Birchwhisker would have turned back to the group at the last second. He didn’t know what to do now.
“Well, come on!” Cloudkit ran forward.
“Wait up!” Maplekit called, scared she would get left behind. Thunderkit and Goosekit sprinted to catch up to their sisters.
“Eep!” Maplekit shrieked and cannonballed into Goosekit. The four froze. Two tortoiseshell mollies were standing nearby a twisted tree. The strangers heard the sound of small kits and tried to spot the source of the noise.
“Get back!” Cloudkit hissed at her siblings. The kits scampered backwards, but the two adults easily found them. One of the tortoiseshells was a lot older than any of the cats back at camp and small scars littered her pelt. The other was younger and gave off a friendlier vibe.
“Do you have a mother somewhere close by?” The older of the two surprised them by softly asking. Maplekit’s eyes squeezed shut, and she nodded vigorously. “Okay, let’s go find her, shall we?”
Briarwhisper did not envy the kits they had returned to their mother in TwistedClan’s camp. She had immediately started scolding and lecturing the four that had actually ventured out of the safety of the camp, and it looked like the remaining two already had listened to their share of the scolding. A few other Clan cats gathered around. Briarwhisper felt slightly uncomfortable with all the staring; it was like she was on display.
“Thank you for bringing back some escapees.” The calico nodded to them. “I am Morningstar of TwistedClan. You are…?”
“Neritefang.” Her companion said. “Formerly of GraveClan but sick of their lifestyle.”
“Briarwhisper of RoseClan. Disbanded.” Briarwhisper introduced. “We met up near the beginning of the forest and decided to walk together.”
“If you would like to stick around for a while, you may. Or move on if you wish.” Morningstar offered.
Neritefang took in her surroundings. The camp seemed peaceful enough for her taste. “I will take you up on that offer.” Briarwhisper seconded. “Only if I remain as a warrior.”
“I don’t see why not.” Morningstar flicked her tail. “Welcome.”
Ruststripe approached Morningstar close to dusk. “Something on your mind?” He asked gently.
“Would you be terribly offended if I appointed Wolfclaw as deputy?” She closed her eyes in thought.
“Not at all. Why would you think that?” Ruststripe said.
“Because you were my first choice for the job.” Morningstar said. “But Wolfclaw has experience leading already and…” She trailed off.
“And?” Ruststripe pushed her to continue.
“I didn’t want it to feel like favoritism if we ever did, you know, have a relationship or anything.” Morningstar looked away from the tom, embarrassed.
Ruststripe purred. “I think Wolfclaw would be a wonderful deputy. And I would much rather be your mate than your deputy.”
“Gross. Don’t be so sentimental.” Morningstar pushed him away. “Go bother some other molly.”
“But I just want to bother you,” Ruststripe jabbed back. The two laughed and walked off together.
Rainsong did not feel right. Something felt off and she couldn’t figure out the cause of her discomfort. Eventually, she dragged herself to Spottednose’s den even though she wanted to avoid it. The medicine cat pushed a bundle of berries back into their spot and looked at her expectantly.
“Um, I don’t feel good.” She stammered.
“We’re going to need more than that.” Spottednose sniffed. He gestured to Galapaw who took the hint and started inspecting her. After a few sharp prods, Galapaw returned to her mentor to murmur something.
“Can’t you tell me what you found?” Rainsong asked worriedly. She didn’t even feel like the apprentice had the opportunity to find any ailment in the first place.
“Calm down.” Now Spottednose approached her. He also checked her out, finishing with pressing on her belly in multiple areas. “Is this slightly uncomfortable?”
“Y-yeah.” Rainsong shuffled away from his touch. “Not much but different.”
“Congratulations.” Spottednose said. “You better go tell Sunchaser the good news.”
Her heart sank. “Good news?” She didn’t want to hear the response but asked anyway.
“You’re expecting kits, of course.” He turned to Galapaw. “Well done.”
Rainsong ducked outside before he could ask any more questions. She couldn’t be expecting kits! This was definitely against all the rules because they were not Sunchaser’s like everyone would assume. She suddenly ran into a wall of fur.
“Hey, are you okay?” Birchwhisker righted the frazzled molly. “I’m taking a walk while Silverstem watches the kits. Do you want to join me?” Rainsong nodded, following the older queen outside of camp. “So, what did scary old Spottednose tell you today?”
Rainsong debated on telling the truth. “I-I’m going to have kits.” She decided someone else needed to know.
“Oh, that’s wonderful! I’m glad you and Sunchaser are getting along now.” Birchwhisker rested her tail on the younger’s shoulder. “I know it seems daunting, but we will all help you two along.”
“Thank you.” Rainsong’s voice came out unnaturally high. She stayed silent for the rest of their walk.
Neritefang was catching the last few sun rays before the leaf-bare weather took over and sent mounds of snow to the forest. She was adjusting to TwistedClan very well as Clan life had returned to a normal routine once more. She was content attending to hunting and patrolling her new borders and coming back to watch the bustle of cats and kits. She especially found herself fond of the six kits that initially brought her and Briarwhisper to TwistedClan. Birchwhisker also seemed grateful when the older warrior could entertain them with stories. It was therapeutic to retell some of the stories from GraveClan, but she made sure to leave out the most gruesome details.
Stonefrost padded up to Briarwhisper. “Hey.” He said and startled her.
“Oh, hey.” She laid her fur flat again. “Sorry, I wasn’t expecting someone to speak.”
Stonefrost ducked his head. This was not the good first impression he had hoped for. He considered just leaving but instead stayed awkwardly. “I was just wondering how you were doing. I know that coming into a new clan feels weird for a bit.”
“Alright, I guess.” Briarwhisper shrugged. “I still miss RoseClan.”
“I recently came from CherryClan myself.” Stonefrost said. “But now I really feel like a TwistedClan cat myself.”
“Really? I’m glad someone else came from a different Clan. It seems that Neritefang just blended right in, but I still feel like the odd one out.” Briarwhisper shrugged.
“It’ll get better. I promise.”
Sunchaser and Ruststripe were discussing potential training plans for their apprentices. Nightpaw was definitely behind by starting late and becoming injured. Sunchaser now had to debate whether to give Blossompaw her final assessment or hold her back for at least another moon. She had enough training sessions, but the dog attack also affected her training. By the time they finished speaking, he was ready to have the unpleasant conversation of waiting one more moon. Rainsong intercepted him before he could get to his apprentice, however. He was pleasantly surprised. They hadn’t been talking recently, and he had found that he missed that.
“We need to talk.” She muttered in his ear. Sunchaser followed her after saying goodbye to the other warrior.
“How’ve you been?” He asked. “We haven’t hung out in a while.”
“I’m expecting kits.” She blurted out.
Sunchaser was taken aback. “What?”
“And everyone is assuming they’re yours.”
“Well, they’re not!”
“I know, but…” Rainsong paused. “I don’t know. It would be easier if you went along with it.”
“But they’re not mine!” Sunchaser yelled.
“I know!” Rainsong tried to calm him down. “But please? For me?”
“Why should I?” Sunchaser spat. “You cut me off, and this is the first time you’ve directly spoken to me in moons and it’s just to ask for a favor.”
Rainsong ducked her head in shame. “I’m sorry. You weren’t listening to me, though. But I’m sorry.”
“I wasn’t going to stick around you spouting off conspiracies.” Sunchaser turned to walk back to camp, but Rainsong held him back.
“You don’t have to say anything then.” Rainsong countered. “Just don’t deny anything.”
“I don’t want to pretend to be a father when I would rather just be the father.” Sunchaser didn’t face her. “I loved you, Rainsong. I thought we were going to actually have a family together.”
“I loved you too.” Rainsong said quietly. “The timing just wasn’t right for us.”
“I don’t even know whose they are.” Sunchaser turned to face her. “You need to tell me if you expect me to do this.”
“I can’t.” Rainsong protested.
“Then that’s it.” Sunchaser prepared to walk away for good. His heart would hurt for a while, but they had moved on from each other. Her especially. He half-expected her to call out or try to stop him once more. But she didn’t. And he didn’t stop either.
And his heart cried.
After Rainsong's argument with Sunchaser, she decided that Patchedmask deserved to know. The kits were his too. Still panicking, she waited near their rock but eventually took up pacing beside the border, hoping to flag his attention in some way. Eventually, Rainsong was relieved to spot Patchedmask padding towards her, but he seemed slightly aggravated as well. Without waiting for him to cross the border, she ran up to him. "Thank StarClan you're here!" She sounded delirious. "You tell me what's wrong with you in a bit." She licked his face, knowing she was freaking him out and got a nuzzle in return. "But I'm expecting kits, and I don't know what to do!" She started to calm down but was still breathing quite hard.
He stared in shock for a moment but eventually broke into a grin. “We’re going to have a family! I’m going to be a father!” He was ecstatic. “Oh, isn’t it great, Rainsong? We’ll have kits!”
She leaned against the tom. She was happy that he was excited, but did he not see the glaring issue before them? "I haven't really even thought about being a mother yet." She muttered almost to herself. "Will I even be a good mother?" She closed her eyes and sighed. If only she had never spoken to Patchedmask, but she didn't like that thought either. "I just don't know what to do."
He rested his chin on her head. “You’ll be a fantastic mother!” He purred. “I couldn’t imagine any other molly carrying my kits.” They stood together for a moment before Patchedmask gulp, now realizing the gravity of the situation before them. “D-do you know any toms in TwistedClan who would be the foster father?” He whispered.
Rainsong adverted her eyes. "I think I could talk Sunchaser into doing it. We just argued over this, but I don't think he'll deny any claims. The Clan already thinks they're his anyway." She took a step back from him. "What should we do about us?"
Patchedmask looked to his paws. “Rainsong - I love you. nothing will ever change that,” he murmured. “but, if you think it’s better for the kits, for us...” he meowed, trailing off.
Rainsong looked into his mismatched eyes. "I love you too, but I don't see how we could ever work." She wanted to go up to him and sit with him forever, but she kept her distance. "I wish we weren't from different clans, but we are, and we can't change that."
Patchedmask gave her a final nuzzle. “I love you.” He murmured in her ear and looked away.
Rainsong now avoided his eyes. They stood there in silence for a moment. "I shouldn't keep coming to see you anymore, however much I want to." Rainsong took a deep breath. "When the kits are old enough, I'll take them on a walk so you could see them. I'll make sure they know that it's you. And that you are special to them." Rainsong promised.
Patchedmask cast one last glance at Rainsong. “I’d love to meet them.” He choked out. “Goodbye, Rainsong.” They both turned to leave.
Rainsong left to walk the long trek back to the center of her camp. She found she did not regret her actions but only regretted that they were not allowed. Whether or not Sunchaser would ever accept any forms of friendship or anything further was not terribly important anymore. She might not have any cemented ties with Patchedmask anymore, but the memories would always be in the back of her mind, tugging and wanting to be pulled back out to the surface. Sometimes perhaps she would let them come and flood her thoughts once more, maybe even entertaining thoughts of what might have been if they didn't have to split apart. But that would come with time, and she still had her own duties to her own Clan. Rainsong would forever to loyal to TwistedClan, but a piece of her heart would always be just across the way with one mismatched tom, and she was perfectly okay with that.
|
|
|
Post by spasticjazzhands on Sept 30, 2019 12:40:06 GMT -8
THE LOYALTY REQUIRED ( 022 ) LAST MOON “I’m ready, Morningstar.” Wolfstar said. The two of them were heading out to the Moonpool to strip his remaining lives from his HollowClan. It still seemed surreal that instead of leader of his own Clan, he was now becoming deputy of another. He hadn’t expected such a rebound and was pleased that TwistedClan already trusted him enough to help lead.
The Moonpool was glistening in the moonlight. “It’s beautiful.” He murmured. He followed Morningstar around the edge until they stopped at the dip. They both touched their noses to the surface, and Wolfstar soon spiraled into sleep. A starry tom approached him and introduced himself as Rainstar.
“Are you prepared to give up your leader’s lives and only have one life remaining?” Rainstar asked.
“Yes,” Wolfstar nodded.
“Very well.” Rainstar rested his nose on Wolfstar’s head. A sharp pain rushed through his body, and he rocked back and forth trying to stay on his feet. After an eternity, the pain ceased and Wolfstar, now Wolfclaw, reopened his eyes. “Welcome to TwistedClan, Wolfclaw.”
Wolfclaw blinked open his eyes and found himself still laying by the Moonpool. Morningstar was already sitting and cleaning her claws. Her eyes shone with unshed tears.
“How were your dreams?” Wolfclaw instantly regretted asking that personal of a question, but he was just concerned.
“Very nice actually.” The leader replied. “I got to speak with an old friend.”
PRESENT Rainsong had sectioned herself off from the Clan. She ate alone. She sat alone. She laid alone. The other cats were starting to become worried, but she didn’t care. She wondered what Patchedmask was doing back in DewClan, but she also knew she would soon have to forget about all that. That was the part of her life in which she should never revisit, however much she wanted.
As she was grabbing a shrew one night, Neritefang beckoned her over to where she was sitting. After debating whether or not to sit with her, Rainsong padded over.
“Stop moping,” The older cat skipped a normal greeting catching Rainsong off guard. “You can’t change anything now, so you better just keep your head up high and run with it.”
Rainsong looked at her paws. “I screwed up.”
“Do you want to know why I left GraveClan?” Neritefang asked. “I was too old for their standards, and it seemed like every other day there would be another cat killed. At first, I beat myself up because of how long it took me to finally stand up and leave, but I can’t change that. I can, however, change how I live now and my future. Understand?”
“I think so.” Rainsong needed more time to take everything in.
“Alright,” Neritefang stood. “Look at the bright side. Whether or not the father is in the picture doesn’t matter. You are going to have your own kits to love and take care of.” She sounded a bit bitter.
“I guess.” Rainsong said.
“Don’t guess, that’s a fact and you can’t change it.” Neritefang left her to think about the conversation.
Sunchaser hated the prying eyes following him around camp. He tried to participate on every patrol and trained with Blossompaw excessively to be out of the Clan’s curiosity. He was honestly dreading Blossompaw’s warrior assessment since that would eliminate an excuse to be out in the forest. However, Blossompaw was very excited for her chance to become a full warrior, so he couldn’t keep putting it off. Ruststripe was tagging along to help assess her.
On a sunny, yet still snowy day, Sunchaser could not put off the warrior assessments anymore and was sent to collect the apprentices. Galapaw waited by the exit. “Good luck, Blossompaw!”
Blossompaw’s fur puffed out a bit more filled with confidence. Ruststripe sent the two apprentices to go hunt, and the warriors trailed behind out of sight.
“So how are you and Rainsong doing?” Ruststripe asked quietly as Nightpaw was trying to blend in to the surroundings. It was difficult for her this time of year since her black and white coat stuck out against the white snow.
Sunchaser watched Blossompaw intently, not knowing how to answer that question. The last conversation they had ended in a lot of yelling. “A little rocky.” He finally admitted.
“I’m sure you will get past it.” Ruststripe offered. Sunchaser wasn’t so sure.
Starlingpaw picked her way through the snow. She separated from the main group of BearClan cat refuges when they all started to split in different directions. She didn’t regret leaving, but in the cold winds she did miss Squirrelheart. Now scrambling over a low-hanging twisted tree branch, she spotted a line of paw prints in the snow. They seemed to be also heading in her chosen direction. Should she try to catch up? At the very least, trying to spot the other cats from afar couldn’t hurt, so Starlingpaw picked up her pace. Eventually, she saw a group of three cats in the distance. There seemed to be two fully-grown cats and one young cat about the same age as her. They seemed to be a family. Starlingpaw did not interrupt the trio but still kept pace behind them. It wasn’t until they had stopped to rest that they heard Starlingpaw step on a stray twig and alerted them of her presence. The adult molly beckoned her over invitingly. “We won’t bite!” She called. Starlingpaw hesitantly came closer.
“Sorry,” She said. “I don’t where I am headed.”
“Can she come with us?” The young cat asked who Starlingpaw assumed were her parents.
“If she wants.” The adult molly said.
“If it’s okay. I’m Starlingpaw.” She introduced herself, still a bit nervous.
“Another Clan cat!” The young cat exclaimed. “I’m Mallardpaw.”
“Nice to meet you, Starlingpaw. I’m Claystream.” The molly said.
“Toadsplash.” The tom said.
“Let’s continue on our way.”
“Where are you guys headed?” Starlingpaw asked as the group started to move again.
“Away from GraveClan.” Mallardpaw walked beside the other apprentice. “Anywhere but there.” The two of them jumped when an orange and white cat peaked his head out from a snow-covered bush. The adults turned interestedly towards the stranger.
“Are you guys going to TwistedClan too?” The small cat’s voice was slightly nasally.
“TwistedClan?” Starlingpaw tilted her head.
“Starry cats showed me where I could find a warm home, and I’m on my way.” The cat said. “I’m sure you would be welcome too.”
Ruststripe nuzzled next to Morningstar underneath the winter night. She sighed and leaned into his warm fur. “What’s on your mind?” He murmured. “You’re holding something back.”
“Rainsong.” Morningstar shut her eyes tight. Ruststripe understood immediately and grunted in response. “I could have been there for her more after Stormstrike died. And listened to all of their worries. And not abandoned my Clan for selfish reasons. Then she wouldn’t have felt so alone.”
“You know you still cannot blame yourself for every little thing.” Ruststripe kneaded her back.
“But I could have helped her somehow, but I left her and TwistedClan.” Morningstar sighed once more. “I’m afraid she’ll do something she’ll regret.”
“If she was going to leave, she would have already.” Ruststripe assured her. “Even if Sunchaser and Rainsong never rekindle their friendship, they’ll both find other cats that catch their eye. As long as it’s not you.”
Morningstar groaned. “Don’t be sappy.”
“I love you.”
“I love you too.”
Mallardpaw was exhausted after walking all day and halfway into the night from their old clan left far behind. When their group staggered into the camp the “starry cats” had shown the nasally cat known as Flame, she was content just curling up in a snowdrift for some sleep. She could not do that though, since the tortoiseshell and a gray tabby were on night watch and spotted them. The tortoiseshell that eventually introduced herself as Briarwhisper was the first to reach them. The tabby had slipped away, presumably alerting the rest of the cats.
“We seek shelter.” Claystream said. “Three of us are from GraveClan.”
Briarwhisper’s eyes widened. “GraveClan? Would you happen to know Neritefang?”
“Yes, she fled a few days before we did.” Claystream said.
“Is she here?” Mallardpaw asked excitedly.
“Who’s Neritefang?” Starlingpaw whispered in her ear. Flame also leaned in to listen.
“She was an older warrior in our Clan. She was very outspoken against the discrimination against the older cats, but she told the best stories.” Mallardpaw explained. The group did not get to listen to any of the old warrior’s stories that night, but they did get to curl up in the warm cabin and that was enough.
|
|
|
Post by spasticjazzhands on Sept 30, 2019 12:45:50 GMT -8
THE FORBIDDEN KITS ( 023 ) LAST MOON Toadsplash stayed a step behind Morningstar and Sunchaser on his first border patrol. These cats were nice enough, but there seemed to be a bit of tension with the smaller tom. “Are you excited about Rainsong?” The calico asked Sunchaser. From what Toadsplash assumed, Sunchaser and Rainsong were going through a bit of a rough patch which was unfortunate. He was glad that him and Claystream only had little spats that never ended up in any bad blood between them.
“Very.” Sunchaser had stuttered out. That’s good, Toadsplash thought, mates shouldn’t stay mad at each other.
“Stop.” Morningstar halted the patrol. Sunchaser looked terrified, but she had only spotted two cats in the distance. “Let’s see if they’re alone.” Toadsplash squinted and made out two calicos. Their fur stood on end, but they didn’t flee. The patrol introduced themselves.
“A Clan?” The older cat said. “Sounds interesting.”
So, Toadsplash had two new companions to walk beside on the way back to TwistedClan: Sagefeather and Rushingpaw.
Morningstar scrambled up onto the ceremony tree in the cold evening. That’s what we’re going to call it, she thought. “Attention! All cats that can are able to climb a tree gather below!” TwistedClan gathered around, slightly shivering in the chilly air. “We welcome our new members Sagefeather and Rushingpaw.” She nodded to the new cats from the border patrol earlier today. “And we also welcome a new warrior from our own ranks.” Blossompaw shakily joined Morningstar on the branch. “Blossompaw, do you promise to uphold TwistedClan’s traditions and protect the Clan with your life?”
“Of course.” Blossompaw responded.
“Then, I give you your warrior name, Blossomfall. Remember that even warriors are fallible and need help.” Morningstar rested her muzzle on Rainsong’s forehead, and the Clan yelled her new name. “Congratulations, Blossomfall.”
Blossomfall retreated back to the ground. Galapaw greeted her enthusiastically. “If only Spottednose would give me my full medicine cat name.” She rolled her eyes.
“You’re never going to get it if you keep messing around.” Spottednose hissed behind her. Galapaw jumped and looked away sheepishly.
PRESENT “I don’t see why I can’t take my warrior assessment too.” Starlingpaw moaned to the apprentices. “I’m a moon older than Mallardpaw, and she’s taking hers now.” Flamepaw and Rushingpaw murmured in agreement.
“I’m going to become a warrior when I’m much older as well.” Nightpaw lazily flicked his half tail. “It’s gonna happen at some point, so why worry about it?”
Starlingpaw rolled her eyes. “I want to be a warrior now, obviously.”
Stonefrost walked by the huddled group. “Instead of complaining, how about you go clean out the nests?” He looked pointedly at Starlingpaw.
Stifling a sigh, she stood. “Who’s coming to help me?”
“He didn’t ask me,” Nightpaw received a glare in return. “Fine, I’ll come.”
“I’ll help!” Flamepaw eagerly said. Rushingpaw didn’t say anything but she tagged along. She enjoyed her new clan but wasn’t comfortable enough speaking up just yet.
Birchwhisker wished more of her kits were dark colored as the lighter ones blended into the snow piles easier. It was hard enough wrangling six antsy kits to begin with, but half of them were now properly camouflaged in the leftover new-leaf snow. She was looking forward to having them out of her nest next moon as apprentices. Eventually, she gave up trying to keep an eye on all of the at once and just laid down looking in the general area of camp. They hadn’t been very keen on leaving camp after running into Briarwhisper and Neritefang, so Birchwhisker decided to trust them. She must have been laying out of sight because Sunchaser and Rainsong started to have a heart to heart talk a few bushes over. If she tried to get away now, they would certainly notice, and she might ruin their chance to make up. She flattened her ears as she wouldn’t want someone else to eavesdrop on her conversations, but she still could make out their words.
“Why did you drag me all the way out here?” Rainsong muttered. “I feel like I’m about to burst.”
“I wanted privacy.” Sunchaser snapped. “Or did you want Silverstem to know that those kits aren’t mine?”
“Don’t be so snappy!” Rainsong said. “So, I assume you will continue to avoid me.”
Sunchaser sighed. “I can help out if you want, but I am not your mate. Are you okay with that?”
“Yes,” Rainsong got quiet. “I can live with that. I don’t want you to feel stuck with me.”
Birchwhisker flattened herself while the two passed her spot once more. She would pretend she didn’t hear that conversation, but who on earth is the father of Rainsong’s kits?
Wolfclaw returned from his patrols and training session with Rushingpaw feeling productive but worn out. Deputy duties along with training a new apprentice was more difficult than he originally thought. He decided to enjoy a nice plump squirrel when he bumped into Silverstem reaching for the same piece.
“Pardon me,” He said and nudged the prey in her direction.
“Why don’t we just share it?” The queen suggested shyly. Wolfclaw accepted the offer and carried the squirrel to a sunny spot where the two sat together. He hadn’t had a chance to talk to Silverstem very much yet; he was still somewhat new to the Clan, and since she was a permanent queen, he didn’t assign her to any patrols. She was rather quite pretty with all her actions being purposeful and graceful. “You alright?” She was looking at him strangely, and he realized he must have been staring.
“Just hungry,” Wolfclaw leaned forward and took a bite. The squirrel was delicious, and he couldn’t help purring contently.
“That good, huh?” Silverstem’s whiskers twitched in amusement. Wolfclaw nodded in embarrassment, but the molly seemed to find that endearing. “I can’t wait to try a bite then.” Wolfclaw rolled his eyes good naturedly. He made a mental note to branch out and perhaps share a meal every now and then with this lovely queen.
Sagefeather settled into TwistedClan a lot faster than her daughter. She was always on the hunt for adventures ever since she was a small kitten, and a new Clan was the perfect activity. Briarwhisper and Stonefrost where taking turns grooming each other out in the new-leaf sun. Sagefeather waltzed over. “I was thinking about going on a walk, care to join me?” Briarwhisper got to her paws and stretched.
“Sounds good to me.” Stonefrost said. As the three left camp, Starlingpaw watched them intently. Stonefrost noticed and yelled over his shoulder, “You can be done with those nests.”
“Thank you!” Starlingpaw pranced off to tell the others helping the good news.
“Where did you and Rushingpaw live before?” Briarwhisper asked.
“We just travelled wherever the tastiest prey was.” Sagefeather shrugged. “But we avoided plains or anything too open. I was never fast enough to catch hares.”
“I prefer less gamey prey as well.” Briarwhisper said.
“I feel like I have more freedom when I can run through the tree branches.” Stonefrost took one giant leap and landed on a thick, twisted branch. “Let’s go!” The two mollies shared a glance and followed Stonefrost. The walk turned into a tree run, and Sagefeather never felt more alive.
Toadsplash and Claystream were also on a new-leaf walk, but they were on a much more peaceful one. “I really hope Mallardpaw passes her assessment.” Claystream said. “She was very excited that Morningstar let her test so soon in this new Clan.”
“I’m sure she will.” Toadsplash interwove his tail with hers. “I’m so proud of how far she’s come.”
“I’m glad she still has her little waddle.” Claystream snorted. “It’s cute.” The two laughed. They enjoyed the quiet forest noises.
Neritefang herded Birchwhisker’s kits to the nearby moss-laden trees. They were just out of the camp clearing, but their mother had given them permission to collect their own piles if they listened to Neritefang. She already had to separate Thunderkit and Stormkit from clawing at each other, but it wasn’t anything she couldn’t handle.
“Neritefang!” Willowkit yelled.
“Yes, dear?” Neritefang swiveled to make sure everyone was okay.
“What’s a nerite?” Willowkit asked.
“Moss!” Goosekit pounced forward as the moss trees were in view.
“Beat you there!” Cloudkit sprinted forward with Thunderkit and Stormkit.
“Wait for the rest of us!” Neritefang called.
“What’s a nerite?” Willowkit asked louder.
“I stepped in mud, Neritefang. Can we stop so I can clean up?” Maplekit whined.
“We’ll stop when we get to the trees.” Neritefang said.
“What’s a nerite!” Willowkit batted her tail to get her attention.
“Yes, Willowkit.” Neritefang sighed. “A nerite is a snail.”
“Gross!” Maplekit scrunched up her nose.
“Neritefang! Look!” Stormkit was shredding the moss with his small claws.
“Don’t shred the moss like that.” Neritefang lightly pushed him back from the tree. “Watch.” She slowly raked her claws on the edges of the moss to preserve the softest parts. “If you do it carefully, it’ll actually be nice to put in your nests.”
“Cool!” Thunderkit ran to a different tree. “I bet I can get more than you!”
“You can’t!” Cloudkit retorted and readied at her tree.
“Neritefang?” Willowkit prodded her once more. “What’s a snail?”
Rainsong laid next to Birchwhisker who was taking a nap while Neritefang babysat in the forest. She tried to get comfortable, but her belly was too big to find a good spot. Suddenly, her stomach convulsed. She cried out, and Birchwhisker sprang to action. “Spottednose!” She ran out to fetch the medicine cat. Rainsong didn’t know if she was ready for this, but she didn’t have a choice anymore.
|
|
|
Post by spasticjazzhands on Sept 30, 2019 12:56:02 GMT -8
THE GROWING CLAN ( 024 ) LAST MOON Sagefeather pushed through the bushes and grass; behind her was Claystream and Morningstar, but they were back further. Sagefeather quickly learned that border patrols were more about chatting then running around. While the other mollies were balancing on the thick branches, Sagefeather scented a new cat. She leaped on a low branch to get a better vantage point and spotted a white cat with an orange tail and markings. “Morningstar, there’s a new face up here!” Sagefeather called. The rest of the patrol hurried to her spot, and the young cat cowered.
“Don’t worry, we won’t hurt you.” Claystream assured the young cat.
“I’ll leave!” The white cat backed up a few steps.
“Are you alone? You could come back with us.” Morningstar offered.
“I-I’m Ranger.” He introduced. Now this was an interesting patrol, Sagefeather thought.
PRESENT Morningstar butted Birchwhisker. “Are you glad you are finally out of the nursery?”
Birchwhisker let out a big sigh. “Yes and no. I’ll miss them, but they were finding new ways of getting on my nerves every day.”
Morningstar chuckled. “I swear we will be outnumbered by young ones eventually. But at least you have Honeypaw to keep your mind off of them.”
“I’m out of shape. I’ll be scrambling to keep up.” Birchwhisker purred. “I hope you can wrangle Stormpaw yourself.”
“I’ll do my best.” Morningstar found Stormpaw in the middle of the cluster of apprentices keeping them entertained. “I felt selfish taking him for myself, but he’s just so much like his father.”
Birchwhisker’s eyes shone with tears. “I know. I hope he’s proud of them.”
“I know he is,” Morningstar assured her. “and he’s proud of you as well. He made sure to tell me at the Moonpool.”
“Thank you, Morningstar.” Birchwhisker nuzzled her friend.
Ruststripe approached the two. “Ready to chase around apprentices?”
“I’ve been chasing around six kits for the past six moons. This will be a piece of cake.” Birchwhisker stretched. “I better go save Honeypaw from the mob.” The older apprentices had already escaped from the new apprentices, but Honeypaw and Flamepaw were still surrounded.
“You wish we had some little ones to run around with, don’t you?” Morningstar leaned against Ruststripe.
“We don’t have to have any.” Ruststripe lowered his eyes.
“What if I want some?” Morningstar asked.
Ruststripe perked up. “Really?”
“Really.”
Flamepaw grabbed the last thrush, knowing it was Nightpaw’s favorite prey. He picked around the feathers waiting for the black cat to notice. Nightpaw kept looking the other way towards the nursery where Sunchaser and Silverstem were standing. Eventually Sunchaser finally disappeared into the nursery, and Flamepaw got his attention by coughing up a feather. Flamepaw tried to get himself under control before the black cat arrived, but he was still flustered.
“Mind if I have a few bites?” Nightpaw sat across from him.
“Of c-course not.” Flamepaw pushed the feathers far away. “I don’t mind at all.”
“If you don’t choke to death before then.”
“I’ll try my best.”
Silverstem lingered in the nursery entrance. She didn’t want to eavesdrop, but she also wanted to hear what Sunchaser thought of his kits. She herself had been alone when she raised her own kits and knew how difficult that was, so Silverstem did not want Rainsong to be alone.
“How are they doing?” The tom asked.
“Fine,” Rainsong sounded exhausted. “They squirm around a lot.”
“Do you like them?” Silverstem heard Sunchaser shuffle his feet.
He’s hopeless, Silverstem thought. He’s trying but not very good at being a father yet.
“Of course, don’t be silly.” Rainsong snapped. “What kind of mother would I be if I didn’t like them?”
“Just checking.” Sunchaser said.
Silverstem moved away from their conversation. She would let them quarrel in private. Wolfclaw snapped her out of her thoughts. “Care to join me for a walk?”
“Sure.” Silverstem flicked her tail happily. “I haven’t been out of camp for a while.”
Wolfclaw headed up the incline behind the camp. He had found a nice grove of pine trees and thought Silverstem would enjoy the scenery. “How is the new litter?”
“Rainsong is doing well although a little overwhelmed perhaps.” Silverstem grew quiet when they arrived at the grove. There were small patches of flowers near some of the bases of the pines.
“Isn’t this a beautiful spot?” Wolfclaw pressed her. He was impressed at himself for finding this area and really wanted her to enjoy it.
“Yes,” Silverstem said quietly. “These are our burial grounds.”
Wolfclaw’s heart sunk. It would have been nice to know that before he took his romantic interest to a cemetery. “I didn’t realize.” He whispered.
“It’s fine.” Silverstem led him to the biggest pine tree. “This is where my daughter, Bluekit, is buried.” Wolfclaw didn’t know what to say. “And that tree,” Silverstem gestured to another tree. “is where Pebblepaw lays.”
“The flowers are lovely.” Wolfclaw choked out.
“Thank you for taking me here.” Silverstem rested her head on his shoulder. “I haven’t visited this place in many moons. I always thought I would be too sad but instead this has brought back happy memories.” The two stood leaning on each other for a while, listening to the new forest life sing.
Goosepaw was thrilled to be training with Honeypaw instead of his other littermates. It wasn’t that he didn’t like his siblings, he just was looking forward to not competing against them. He walked beside the new apprentice, and Sunchaser and Birchwhisker were ahead of them.
“How are Rainsong’s kits?” Birchwhisker asked.
“Fine.” Sunchaser’s reply was short.
“Why don’t they like each other, but they have kits together?” Honeypaw murmured in Goosepaw’s ear. He only shrugged in reply. His mother had told them that they do get along, but they were just having an argument. Apparently, it was a long argument.
“Now we are going to learn how to hunt.” Birchwhisker and Sunchaser stopped in a little clearing underneath a couple old oak trees. “Sunchaser will demonstrate the crouch like so.” Sunchaser slunk forward stalking a pretend squirrel. “He keeps his tail and hind end down, so he is hidden.” Sunchaser pounced on a leaf ending his demonstration. “Now you try.”
The warriors watched as the apprentices unsteadily crouched down. “A little lower, dear.” Birchwhisker called.
“Don’t call me ‘dear’!” Goosepaw whined. Honeypaw’s whiskers twitched and Goosepaw felt his fur get hot. Now, he would rather be fighting with his littermates instead.
The four oldest apprentices were out on a swimming lesson overseen by all of their mentors. Even in the nice new-leaf weather, the creek was still pretty chilly and none of them seemed particularly eager to step into the water.
“Well, we aren’t going to get any warmer staring at the water.” Neritefang bit the bullet and waded in first. “Come on, Flamepaw.”
Flamepaw cast a pained glance behind him and joined his mentor. “Oh, I hate this!” He complained. Next Stonefrost nudged an unwilling Starlingpaw in.
Nightpaw was already dipping a paw in the water, testing its temperature. “Isn’t this where Stormstrike died?” The group became quiet and the only noise was the rushing water in the creek.
“Yes.” Ruststripe finally responded. He quickly realized that he was the only one in this group that had known him. Not even Nightpaw had joined TwistedClan before Stormstrike had drowned. “That shows why we learn how to swim. Anything could happen to anybody.”
“That put a damper on the mood.” Rushingpaw muttered.
Wolfclaw swiped at her ear. “You’re not even in the water yet.” He pushed her towards the bank.
“Yeah, thanks for making us all sad, Nightpaw.” Starlingpaw sarcastically added. He retaliated by splashing her with a large wave. “HEY!”
Neritefang hissed as she also got splashed. “We’re swimming, not playing like kits.”
“Rushingpaw isn’t even in here yet.” Flamepaw narrowed his eyes. He was feeling rather cold and didn’t appreciate all the arguing. Wolfclaw must have gotten tired of her still on dry land too because he grabbed her by the scruff and set her in the water.
Toadsplash and Claystream were having a bit more success with their new apprentices as they didn’t have to persuade them to jump in water. However, Thunderpaw and Cloudpaw were turning everything into a competition. Thunderpaw had a better crouch, but Cloudpaw had a better leap, so they were both just waiting to see who caught the first piece of prey. It was going to be a long day.
Rainsong curled around her three new kits. She was thankful that they all looked mostly like her so no one would become too suspicious, but she still couldn’t help herself. She had named the black and white tom, Patchkit. She cleaned them all again. She wasn’t completely sure what else she was supposed to do. Silverstem had been going on frequent walks with Wolfclaw, and Birchwhisker was free of her kit duties. Rainsong stretched out, causing angered mewls from her dislodging them from their milk source. What she would give to visit Patchedmask once more.
Briarwhisper, Sagefeather, and Morningstar brought their apprentices near the eastern border. Along with it being an easy place to practice hunting techniques, Morningstar also wanted to reinforce the lesson of borders. They bordered DewClan up here, and there were too many traces of TwistedClan cat scent close to the border for her liking.
“What do you do if a mouse runs across to DewClan?” Morningstar questioned.
“Run faster.” Stormpaw said with a smirk. Willowpaw snickered.
“Leave it.” Morningstar growled.
“What if a mouse runs to our side?” Maplepaw asked.
“Then you can catch it.” Briarwhisper answered.
“What if a DewClan warrior runs across the border?” Maplepaw asked.
“Then you claw them.” Stormpaw swiped at his sister.
“No.” Morningstar narrowed her eyes. “Tell your patrol.” She tried her best to not show her amusement. However boisterous Stormpaw could be, he would never outdo his father. But, Morningstar thought, a little spunk in the Clan was alright.
Blossomfall and Mallardwing trotted over to the medicine bush. Galapaw stuck her head out and shushed them. “What do you need?” She hissed.
“We were going hunting if you want to come.” Blossomfall said. “What are you doing? We can help sort herbs or something.”
Galapaw glanced behind her. “I doubt you’d be much help.”
Mallardwing chuckled. “Come on, Spottednose can’t hold you hostage!”
“I know, but I have to check on Rainsong and throw out old herbs. Go on without me.” Galapaw frowned.
“If you’re done before we get back, come find us.” Mallardwing turned, tail held high. “See you later, Galapaw!”
Blossomfall touched noses with the medicine cat apprentice for a brief second, and Galapaw’s heart soared. “’Bye Galapaw.” Galapaw turned back to see her mentor with a distressed look in his eyes.
“Galapaw, forget cleaning out the medicine store and follow me.” Spottednose didn’t give her a chance to argue and left camp at a quick pace. Galapaw was worried since Spottednose’s preferred method of traveling was just staying in the same spot. As soon as they were out of earshot of others, Spottednose started to speak while keeping up his pace. “If you wish to receive your full medicine cat name, you have to make a choice, Galapaw. Do you understand?”
“I’m not sure I do.”
“It’s either Blossomfall or Galalight.” Spottednose said bluntly. “You can only have one, but you have complete freedom to choose. Understand?”
Galapaw stayed silent for a few moments. “I understand.” She said quietly.
“Good. I’ll check on Rainsong while you take time to think about it. You don’t have to make a decision today, just soon.” Spottednose stopped and caught her eye. “Just make sure you’re happy with whatever you decide.”
Stonefrost reentered camp still damp from the swimming lessons. He had stayed out after finding Briarwhisper’s training group and offered some insights from afar. The apprentices had sprinted back to camp saying something about not missing a story? Stonefrost wasn’t sure what that was about but as long as he had a place to dry out, he would be happy. It turned out the story was a tall tale from Neritefang. All of the apprentices, and most of the Clan for that matter, were huddled around the tree where Morningstar usually addressed them. Stonefrost shared a glance with Briarwhisper. “Fancy a story?”
“Don’t mind if I do.”
Vixendream never seemed to stay out of trouble. One day she would be reprimanded for running off on patrols outside of Clan territory and the next she would be lectured for screwing up hunting patrols by daydreaming. She really only had two moods: restless or lazy. After one of her excursions lasting three full days of running around on the prairie, Aspenstar had had enough of Vixendream’s antics. He sent her to find a place where dreams were created, figuring he could get rid of her permanently and quietly. When she never returned, the other cats would assume she only ran away tired of staying in one place. Vixendream did not understand Aspenstar’s intent, however, and was excited to be trusted with a seemingly important task. So, one new-leaf night Vixendream set out on her quest.
She traveled across the open plains, through thick forests, over rocky ground, and swam across streams. New-leaf quickly turned into Greenleaf which rolled into Leaf-fall. Vixendream was beginning to tire of her adventure and wanted to find a good place to rest. She came across a place she assumed old Twolegs had abandoned. Here a section of grass was sectioned off by strange sticks stuck straight into the ground. Inside the fenced off area were rows of stones varying in sizes and heights with strange symbols etched into them. Thinking this was a safe place to spend the night, Vixendream slipped through the sticks and shivered when they brushed against her fur. They were unnaturally cold. She weaved between the stones and finally laid down in the overgrown grass.
However much Vixendream tried, she could not seem to fall asleep. The cold wind kept her awake and eventually she reopened her eyes. To her surprise, there was mist swirling around the blowing tree branches and etched stones. Vixendream shot up, completely awake and now trying to chase down the mist. The wind started to pick up and the mist started to blow upwards towards the tree line. Vixendream leaped once more swiping her claws through the air but soon realized she was floating in midair. This didn’t dissuade her, and she used this power to follow the mist.
As she ascending to the sky, Vixendream became more translucent and eventually she was the mist itself. Through the night, Vixendream twisted through the grasslands, forest, and rocky grounds, dipping down to each wildlife to grant whisper in their ears leaving behind goodwill and sweet dreams. Eventually she drifted back to her old Clan and visited Aspenstar. He was rather surprised to see her return in mist form and was not as pleased as Vixendream thought he would be. Vixendream lashed out in a fit of anger, and he was struck with a violent nightmare. Every night Vixendream visited each creature and granted them pleasant dreams making them feel rested and ready for the next day. However, if she noticed that a being was being vile, then they were immediately struck with a nightmare every night until they repented.
Over the seasons, Vixendream lost her original name as she lost her Clan ties. She is now known as The Weaver or The Catcher. Beware of your own actions because you never know what she has witnessed and when she will deem it necessary to strike you with nightmares.
The entire Clan was gathered around the tree all entranced by Neritefang’s tale. Spottednose shuffled his paws uncomfortable at the mention of nightmares. He hadn’t done anything wrong but yet nightmares still plagued him. StarClan had been deathly silent since Morningstar and Wolfclaw traveled to the Moonpool, and Stormstrike had visited Morningstar. Next moon, he planned to take Galapaw to the Moonpool if she decided to continue her medicine cat duties, so whether StarClan liked it or not, Spottednose was planning on getting answers.
|
|
|
Post by spasticjazzhands on Sept 30, 2019 13:03:03 GMT -8
THE PROPHECY ( 025 ) LAST MOON Galapaw cleared her head after her conversation with Spottednose by visiting the Burial Site. She raked up the remainder of the dead leaves and clawed out weeds poking out in between flowers sprouting. Soon her paws were clogged with dirt and sore to the touch. She carefully made her way towards the creek where she could clean off her hard work. As soon as her mind wasn’t preoccupied with busy work, her thoughts drifted back to Blossomfall. Her favorite part of the days was always sharing a meal with the warrior and discussing the latest patrols. Medicine cats can have friends outside of just the other medicine cat! Galapaw thought angrily. But then she thought of all the secret looks and smiles they shared, and how her heart ached every time Blossomfall did something sweet for her. Were they really only just going to stay friends? But how could she give up her medicine cat status? She had devoted her time both in LambClan and now in TwistedClan to becoming the best medicine cat she could be. Spottednose now gave her more compliments than reprimands, and the younger cats felt more comfortable with her around than only the moody Spottednose. And I would be Galalight, Galapaw thought.
Blossomfall hummed to herself as she swept some dirt off of the cabin front. Flamepaw and Honeypaw were dusting out the inside of the cabin while rest of the younger apprentices carried out the old and musty bedding. As she had a coughing fit from the dirt swirling around, Galapaw leaped up on the landing behind her. “Can we talk?” Galapaw whispered.
Blossomfall sneezed. “Of course.” They squeezed into a corner where they wouldn’t be interrupted.
“I am going to receive my medicine cat name next moon.” Galapaw started.
“That’s great!” Blossomfall purred.
“It is, but that brings me to my next point.” Galapaw paused. “I can’t fall in love with you. I have a choice, and I need to make it.”
“Why can’t we have both?” Blossomfall hated how she sounded whiny. “It won’t affect your medicine cat duties at all.”
“It will.” Galapaw sighed. “I wish it didn’t, but it will.”
“Shouldn’t I get a say in this?”
“I’m really sorry,” Galapaw met her eyes. “but no.”
Nightpaw was sitting in the back of the cluster of cats, stifling a cough. It was enough that Ruststripe had to drag him out from under the water during the lesson, but now he was getting ill. A sharp prod interrupted his negative thoughts. Spottednose jabbed his tail towards the medicine cat den. Nightpaw took the hint and followed him back to the herb store. The medicine cat shoved a leaf towards him. “Eat this.” Spottednose instructed.
“A leaf?” Nightpaw rasped. “There must be something else that’s actually edible.”
“This is perfectly fine to eat. It’ll help your throat.”
“I’d rather have a cough, thanks.”
“You’ll spread it around. If I grab honey instead will you stop complaining and leave?”
“Sure.”
PRESENT Rainsong sat with her three kits outside behind the cabin. They were basking in the nice weather, and Sunchaser for once sat next to her without much complaints. “They’re starting to move around better,” Sunchaser said as Dovekit rolled over to bat at Patchkit.
“They are.” Rainsong snuck a glance at the tom. He seemed to be enjoying watching the kits. “Soon I’ll take them so their father can see them.” The tom tense, but Rainsong had expected that.
“Are you serious?” Sunchaser asked. “It’s enough that one is named…”
“I promised.” Rainsong interrupted. “And no one will know any better. We’ll just go for a walk together and…”
“We?”
“I was going to ask if you could help me. I do really appreciate what you are doing for us.” Rainsong tried to sweet talk him.
“I see.” Sunchaser was distracted by Patchkit batting his tail with his sharp claws. He flicked it back and forth as Patchkit tried to pin it to the ground. Dovekit and Petalkit soon joined in on this game, and Sunchaser was soon overwhelmed by tiny claws and fangs. Rainsong chuckled, enjoying herself for the first time in a while. Sunchaser gently knocked them away, and they soon got distracted by chirping beetles in the dirt. “Do you still love him?” Sunchaser asked very quietly while staring hard at the ground in front of him.
“I’ll always love him,” Rainsong said. “but I’m not in love with him anymore.”
“Good.” Rainsong took a chance and rested her tail over his. He didn’t move it, and they watched the kits play in the dirt.
“Wake up, sleepyhead.” Morningstar whispered in her mate’s ear. “All the prey will already be caught if we don’t get out there.” Ruststripe rolled to his feet and the two left the camp in the early morning sunshine. “It’s a nice day to be running around.”
“It’s always a nice day when I’m around you.” Ruststripe said cheekily.
“It’ll be even nicer when I tell you the good news!” Morningstar said.
“Don’t keep me in suspense!” Ruststripe had an inkling as to what the news would be and couldn’t wait.
“I’m expecting kits.” Morningstar turned to him. He nuzzled her in delight.
“Now it’s an amazing day!” Ruststripe purred. “But are you still going to the Moonpool later? Shouldn’t you stay here?”
“I’ll be fine going on a walk.” Morningstar assured him. “I still have my legs.”
“If you say so,” Ruststripe paused. “We need to tell someone! This is wonderful.”
Morningstar laughed. “I’ll let you break the news to the Clan then. Wolfclaw already agreed to take over some leadership duties while I’m in the nursey.”
“You told Wolfclaw before me?” Ruststripe exclaimed.
“Wolfclaw wasn’t asleep.” Morningstar poked him. “I promise he’s the only one I told. Well, Spottednose knows obviously, but that’s it.”
Ruststripe sighed dramatically. “I guess that’s fine.” They chuckled. “Now let’s go tell the others.”
Spottednose knew that Galapaw had been avoiding him over the past few nights leading up to his Moonpool visit. He still was not sure if his apprentice was going to continue on her medicine cat path or step down to stay with Blossomfall. Morningstar was also coming along to the Moonpool to ask StarClan for an elder and to hopefully witness Galapaw’s ceremony. The sun was starting to sink towards to the horizon after the warm day. Morningstar approached Spottednose. “Isn’t Galapaw supposed to be accompanying us?”
“She is around here somewhere.” Spottednose stalled. “She has been very busy lately running around, doing last minute errands for me, and checking on the nursery…” Thankfully, he was saved from rambling on with other excuses by Galapaw sprinting up.
“I’m ready to go to the Moonpool.” Galapaw coughed out. Spottednose tilted his head expectantly. “Yes, I’m ready to go.” She confirmed.
“Perfect. On we go.” Spottednose nudged her along, and Morningstar limped along beside them. “Have you had many dreams lately?” He breached the topic with the calico.
“Any specific dreams?” Morningstar asked. “I have chased a squirrel or two without my back paw bothering a few nights ago but nothing special comes to mind.” Spottednose didn’t know what to think about that.
“Then what have you been dreaming?” Morningstar pressed.
“Nothing special.” Spottednose said quickly.
“Galapaw? Is that the truth?” Morningstar’s tone was light but had a sinister undertone to it.
“Uh,” Galapaw didn’t know how to respond.
“I take that as a ‘no’, then.” Morningstar looked at Spottednose. “What have you really been dreaming?”
“I’m hoping to figure that out myself tonight.” Spottednose said. “My dreams have not been the most pleasant lately consisting of snarling and the scent of decay.”
“I would count that as something ‘special’ and important to tell me.” Morningstar flicked him with her tail. “Understand?”
“Yes.” Spottednose was the first to leap up onto the rocky outcropping and ducked under the overhanging boulder to squeeze into the passageway that led to the Moonpool. Galapaw was close behind with Morningstar taking a bit more time with her twisted paw. Spottednose waited for the two others at the dazzling Moonpool. The moon was still rising, so they had time to finish the medicine cat ceremony first. “Galapaw, are you ready?”
“I’m ready.” Galapaw stood face-to-face with her mentor.
“Then I, Spottednose, medicine cat of TwistedClan, call upon my warrior ancestors to look down on this apprentice. She has trained hard to understand the ways of a medicine cat, and with your help she will serve TwistedClan for many moons. Galapaw, do you promise to uphold the ways of a medicine cat, to protect all cats equally even at the cost of your life?”
“I do.”
“Then by the powers of StarClan I give you your true name as a medicine cat. Galapaw, from this moment on you will be known as Galalight. StarClan honors your values and kind nurturing attitude, and we welcome you as a full medicine cat of TwistedClan.” Spottednose let her rest her muzzle on his shoulder.
“Congratulations, Galalight!” Morningstar purred.
“I’m proud of you, Galalight.” Spottednose murmured. “Though, you are still technically my apprentice.” He added louder.
“Thank you.” Galalight whispered.
“Ready?” Morningstar already laid by the Moonpool. She was anxious to go to sleep to get some answers.
“Yes.” Spottednose sat beside her but allowed the leader to touch the Moonpool first.
“Are you worried what StarClan might say?” Galalight asked.
“I’m worried that they might not say anything.” Spottednose muttered. He and his apprentice touched their noses into the Moonpool. Spottednose soon blinked open his eyes and took in the magical starry forest that was StarClan. He would never tire of visiting. Galalight awoke behind him.
“Where’s Morningstar?” She stretched.
“Over here.” Spottednose spun around. He hadn’t heard that voice in a long time.
“Stormstrike?” Spottednose took in the sight of his old friend standing by Morningstar. He looked exactly like he used to, and it was strange to talk to him once more. “Why haven’t you spoke to me sooner?” He felt slightly betrayed. It had been nine moons since Stormstrike had passed, and Spottednose hadn’t heard a single word from the warrior.
“I’m sorry.” Stormstrike said. “It wasn’t the right time.”
“Not the right time?” Spottednose shook his head. “I find that hard to believe.”
“Dark times are approaching, Spottednose.” Stormstrike stepped closer to the two medicine cats. Galalight stepped backwards, unsure, but Spottednose stood nose to nose with his old friend. “A storm is coming, ready to swallow TwistedClan.”
“If you waited until now to tell me, you better be more specific.” Spottednose said.
“The raging foam will spread like fire and boil blood with fear.” Stormstrike said. “Be ready.” He touched noses with Spottednose. “Tell my kits I’m excited that they’re apprentices now.” Before any of the cats could respond, the dream started to fade to black, and they woke back up next to the Moonpool.
“Was that a prophecy?” Galalight asked quietly.
“I believe it was.” Morningstar looked at Spottednose.
“StarClan help us.”
Nightpaw had a new orange and white shadow. Flamepaw volunteered to join the same patrols as him and made sure he was picked to assist with the same apprentice chores. Nightpaw wasn’t sure what to think of this development. It did make it easier for him to practice fighting moves as he always had a willing volunteer. “Okay, now you attack me first.” Nightpaw crouched, leveling the remainder of his tail for balance.
“How should I attack?” Flamepaw asked crouching as well.
Nightpaw stood up exasperated. “I’m not going to tell you since that would ruin the…” Flamepaw sprung at him in the middle of his sentence. The two rolled in the dirt; Flamepaw latched on to Nightpaw’s chest while Nightpaw battered his belly with his back paws. Nightpaw threw Flamepaw off and shook his head to get rid of the dirt.
“Did I surprise you?” Flamepaw asked excitedly.
“Yes, it was very good.” Nightpaw was impressed and annoyed at himself. “Where’d you learn how to jump like that anyway?”
“I used to live around the Two-legs’ nests. They had giant stone structures that I liked to climb on to overlook their entire camp. Some of the highest ones were way taller than any tree I’ve ever seen. I couldn’t jump to the top of those ones, but I could still figure out how to get pretty high.” Flamepaw cleaned his ears. “Where’d you live before this?”
Nightpaw shuffled his feet. He hadn’t ever talked about his past before, and it made him uncomfortable. The past was the past so why did it matter? “I don’t know. Just wherever my sister and I wanted to go.”
“You have a sister?” Flamepaw asked.
Nightpaw chastised himself. He didn’t mean to share that. “Yeah, I used to. A dog got to her.”
“I’m sorry.” Flamepaw rested his tail on Nightpaw’s shoulders. “I don’t remember if I ever had any family. I guess I do, but I only grew up alone and fighting for scraps with the other rouge cats.”
“It’s better to have no ties.” Nightpaw shrugged. “It’s easier to get over problems if they arise.”
“I would have to disagree. I think it’s easier to deal with problems with someone you trust.” Flamepaw said.
“And what if the cat you trust is the problem?”
“You find another. Eventually.”
Briarwhisper, Stonefrost, Toadsplash, and Claystream waded out in the creek. The unforgiving sun was beating down on the forest and the cooling water rushing past them was a relief. Stonefrost dipped under the water quick to cool off his head. Briarwhisper looked at him like he was crazy. “See for yourself.” Stonefrost dunked her mostly under the surface of the water. She came up sputtering.
“Hey!” She protested.
“It’s much cooler if you’re all wet.” Stonefrost shrugged. Toadsplash swam under the surface, batting at fish. “Toadsplash has the right idea.”
“Why do you think both of us have water names?” Claystream said. “We were some of the better swimmers of GraveClan.”
“I never had a reason to swim.” Briarwhisper made sure to keep her head firmly above the water now. “I might just prefer to stay hot.”
Wolfclaw had already delegated the day’s patrols and was now sharing a piece of thrush with Silverstem. “I’m excited Morningstar is finally having kits,” The queen was saying. “I know Ruststripe was really hoping for a chance of becoming a father.”
“It’s easy being a father. They don’t have to do the hard work.” Wolfclaw said offhandedly.
“Oh, please. Having kits is almost the easy part. The making sure they stay safe is the hard part.” Silverstem grew quiet.
“I’m sure it is.” Wolfclaw nudged her. “I never had the pleasure of being a father. Or knowing Pebblepaw.”
“He was very excited to become an apprentice.” Silverstem leaned into the tom.
“Would you ever consider having more kits?” Wolfclaw whispered.
Silverstem intertwined her tail with his. “Maybe one day.”
Mallardwing snuck behind a sulking Blossomfall. She snagged her tail, and the black and white warrior hissed and batted at her. Mallardwing reeled back. “Don’t be so moody.” Mallardwing said.
“You’re the one who clawed me.” Blossomfall huffed.
“That’s not what I was talking about.” Mallardwing sat next to her. “You’ve been even more annoyed all moon.”
Blossomfall raked the ground. “It just isn’t fair.” She complained.
“What’s not fair?”
“None of your business.”
“That doesn’t help me.”
“I don’t need your help.”
Mallardwing hooked her claws on her fluffy tail once more. “I’m not your therapist. I wanted to tag along training Stormpaw, but if you are going to mope around for no reason then I’ll ask Wolfclaw if I can take over his training.”
“What?” Blossomfall stood up angrily. “Morningstar appointed me as his mentor not yours!”
Mallardwing shrugged. “Not if you don’t work with him.”
“Well, I am right now! Stormpaw!” Blossomfall called. The black apprentice poked his head out of the cabin. “We’re going hunting!” He excitedly scrambled towards them. Blossomfall nudged him to enter the forest, and Mallardwing tagged along behind. “Why are you following us?” She snapped.
“I’m coming with, grumpy.” Mallardwing skipped happily.
Blossomfall sighed. “Fine.”
Honeypaw, Maplepaw, and Goosepaw were collecting moss for the nursery nests. Honeypaw’s legs were sore from crouching in a hunting position all afternoon. Birchwhisker was actually pretty intimidating during training. She didn’t like it when he complained she was being too harsh either and had to stay out in the hot for longer. He raked the moss quickly, keeping some dirt on the soft underside. Goosepaw glanced at his pile. “That looks a bit messy.” He said.
“It just needs to get done.” Honeypaw was too tired to argue. “I’m sure it’ll be fine.” Goosepaw didn’t say anything else. As soon as their piles became hip high, they gathered up the moss and dragged it back to camp. When the three were distributing the moss into the separate nests, Birchwhisker came over to scrutinize their work.
“Honeypaw, put all of yours in one nest over there. Since you worked so hard, all of it will go in Morningstar’s new nest. You know how tired she is after traveling to the Moonpool last night, and she would really appreciate a comfortable nest.” Birchwhisker said. Honeypaw looked at his dirty moss pile. “Unless you would rather toss that out and go collect a better pile.”
“Okay,” Honeypaw said sheepishly. “I’ll get some more.”
“Good decision.” Birchwhisker nodded. “I’ll tell Morningstar you made her a special nest, then.” Honeypaw hurried back out to the moss laden trees. As he started collecting moss more carefully, a soft voice spoke behind him.
“I can help you,” Maplepaw offered. “If you want.”
Honeypaw was grateful for the offer. “Thanks a bunch.”
“I can tell you’re having a long day.” Maplepaw shrugged. “I would want some help if I was you.”
|
|
|
Post by spasticjazzhands on Sept 30, 2019 13:13:14 GMT -8
THE SECRET ( 026 ) LAST MOON Stonefrost and Briarwhisper were casually flirting when they were interrupted by two arguing cats. The tuxedo cat was the louder voice and the brown splashed tabby only seemed to be humoring the other one. The two groups of cats both seemed surprised to see the other.
“I told you we should have avoided this forest, Geronimo!” The tuxedo cat mewed.
Geronimo, the less interested cat, said, “We’re out of the sun, it’s fine.” He turned to the Clan cats. “I’m Geronimo, and that’s Crow.” He introduced.
Stonefrost nodded. “Nice to meet you.” He shared a look with Briarwhisper. “Are you two alone?”
“It’s just us.” Geronimo assured. “Are you two wandering mates? You could travel along with us if you’d like.” Crow huffed but didn’t say anything.
“W-we aren’t mates.” Stonefrost stuttered embarrassed.
“Actually, we live in a Clan.” Briarwhisper saved her companion. “You two would be welcome to join us, I’m sure.”
“A Clan?” Geronimo echoed. “I don’t know, we were planning on going further to the mountains in the distance.”
“We could check it out.” Crow surprised his partner by speaking up. “Take a small break from travelling.”
“Are you sure?” Geronimo asked. “We said we were going to the mountains.” He sounded annoyed. Crow shrugged. “Fine.” Geronimo eventually relented.
“Camp’s back this way.” Briarwhisper pointed her tail in the direction of TwistedClan.
The four cats started to head back. “Are you two brothers or something?” Stonefrost curiously asked.
Crow snorted. “Definitely not. Mates actually.”
“I figured.” Briarwhisper laughed. “You two bicker like a couple.”
Thus, Crow became Crowtalon and Geronimo became Valleyrunner, warriors of TwistedClan.
Starlingpaw rushed ahead of the two other apprentices. She was becoming bitter that younger apprentices were now warriors and she was still stuck training with the native apprentices. Flamepaw was close behind her, a natural climber. Rushingpaw was slightly struggling along behind them. Wolfclaw and Neritefang were on either side, encouraging them further. After a few short leaps and a few long leaps from tree to tree, the warriors seemed satisfied enough at their climbing abilities. Flamepaw leapt down from his low branch, and Starlingpaw hugged the tree backwards until she was on the forest floor once more. Rushingpaw hesitantly climbed down, daunted by the height. A couple feet from the ground, Rushingpaw slide past a branch and it caught in her fur. She winced and had a small cut slowing oozing blood. “You’ll want Galalight to look at that when we get back.” Wolfclaw said. “It doesn’t look too bad though.” Rushingpaw agreed and the five cats returned from their training session. Rushingpaw went directly to the medicine cat den where Galalight was thankfully awake.
“I cut my leg.” Rushingpaw showed her leg.
Galalight sniffed it. “On a branch?” The apprentice nodded. “It’s not very deep. We should get by with only cobweb to stop the bleeding. If you step to the side, I’ll go get it.” The orange medicine cat ducked underneath the leaves to grab the cobweb. “Sorry, Spottednose is taking a nap, otherwise you could go in too.” She expertly wrapped the cut up. “Good as new!”
Rushingpaw flexed her leg. The wrap felt nice and secure. “Thanks, Galalight!” She exclaimed.
“Happy to help!” Galalight saw a disgruntled Blossomfall from across the camp. “I’m glad I’m now a full medicine cat.” She said less confidently.
“Me too,” Rushingpaw smiled, and Galalight felt marginally better.
PRESENT Nightpaw scrutinized Ruststripe and Morningstar sharing a shrew. After those two finished their meal, Nightpaw was scheduled to attempt his warrior assessment. He was looking forward on getting away from Starlingpaw’s annoyance and the boisterous young apprentices. However, he was surprisingly anxious of failing. He enjoyed being able to complete tasks, and even going out again with Ruststripe to relearn swimming was embarrassing enough. Having to take a second warrior assessment would be mortifying. Nightpaw raked the dirt with his claws.
“Nervous?” Flamepaw surprised him since all of his attention was directed elsewhere.
“I suppose.” Nightpaw narrowed his eyes. “I just want it over with.”
“I wouldn’t be that worried if I were you.” Flamepaw laid next to him. “I’m sure you’ll pass.”
“And if I don’t?” Nightpaw spat.
“Then we train together for a moon, and you try again next time.” Flamepaw said. “Not the end of the world.”
“See you later,” Ruststripe touched noses with his mate. “I’m taking Nightpaw out now.”
“Wish him luck from me.” Morningstar purred. She watched him leave and then dragged her and her big belly towards the medicine den. Galalight poked her head out as she approached.
“Everything okay?” She asked worriedly.
“I’m fine,” Morningstar said. “I needed to talk to you both about this prophecy. Do you guys have a minute to discuss this?”
“I think so, let me check with…” Galalight got cut off.
“I was listening.” Spottednose said. “Come in.”
“You were lurking.” Morningstar teased. “Step aside, very pregnant cat coming through.”
“I haven’t had any more dreams or signs from StarClan yet.” Spottednose hadn’t even waited until the two mollies had settled in. “I have been reading into all that I can…”
“Becoming increasingly paranoid.” Galalight muttered.
“…but nothing has caught my eyes.” Spottednose glared at his apprentice. “Being overly cautious seems better than being too lax.”
“Our stock of poisons is now split up into different sections of the camp.” Galalight pointed out.
“So one of us will ingest poison by accident?” Morningstar wasn’t amused.
“So we don’t have all our birds in one tree.” Spottednose argued.
“Put them back,” Morningstar ordered. After a brief staring contest, Spottednose relented.
“What is our next step?” Galalight brought back the conversation to the more important topic.
“I think we will have to wait and see. Nothing thankfully seems amiss at the moment. Wolfclaw hasn’t noticed anything wrong from any of the training or patrols.” Morningstar said.
“Have you told him?” Spottednose tilted his head.
“No,” Morningstar shook her head. “I haven’t told a soul. And I think we should keep it that way for now.”
“That might be best. We cannot allow another panic to run through the Clan. Especially when we have so many young cats.” Spottednose sighed. “I’m keeping my eye out, but only time will tell.”
Honeypaw, Maplepaw, Thunderpaw, and Willowpaw trekked through the forest. They had spent the majority of the day training and were taking turns complaining about their least favorite parts of the day. Honeypaw made sure to steer clear of bashing on his mentor too much since Birchwhisker was their mother.
Sunchaser chased a squirrel through the forest. It was a squirrelly one and kept ahead by a claw length. He grunted in frustration. If he didn't catch it now, it would be lost across their border. A burst of speed sent him directly on top of it, killing it instantly. He skidded to a halt, panting heavily. Trying to catch his breath, he looked around and saw a black and white tom looking his way. Tired and annoyed his glared at him. "I'm still on my territory!" He hissed in warning. He took in the stranger. Something about him seemed eerily familiar, yet he was sure he hadn't met him before. He hoped the tom was alone since his hunting patrol had split up to search for prey, and he was by himself.
“I said nothing to you about borders,” The tom walked closer. “Unless you’re looking for a fight?” He added evenly.
Sunchaser made sure they were still both on their own territory. “I’m just making sure you stay in your place.” Sunchaser flattened most of his fur down but was still on guard. “Why is a DewClan cat so close to our border in the first place?”
The tom flattened his ears. “I didn’t cross the border, and I’m allowed to stay as close as I’d like if I’m on DewClan territory!” He retorted.
Sunchaser snorted. The cat wasn't wrong, but he still didn't trust any intention the cat might have. "Sunchaser! You catch anything?" Neritefang called from the distance.
"Just a squirrel!" Sunchaser yelled back. He didn't think she could see the encounter he was having, and she didn't come any closer. The two toms were silent for a moment, but no one else appeared. "Well, just make sure you stay on your side. We don't need any more problems from DewClan." Sunchaser couldn't help sounding bitter. "Our nursery is full enough." He muttered.
The tom now seemed interested in what Sunchaser had muttered. “It seems like kits are abundant now; Marigoldstep and Fallowfur just had a litter.”
Sunchaser hesitated. Now he knew information about DewClan. "I suppose," he said slowly. "Rainsong's three are a handful at times, and Morningstar's litter will join them next moon." He took a step back. "I think my patrol will be missing me in a few moments." He was starting to feel uncomfortable.
“Wait!” The tom whispered. “What’s your name?”
"Sunchaser?" Now the orange tom was getting concerned. The strange warrior got too excited too quickly. Did he say something to set him off again?
“So you’re Rainsong’s…mate?” The tom asked awkwardly.
"Of sorts." Sunchaser narrowed his eyes. So this was the tom Rainsong had fell in love with. He wasn't unattractive he guessed, but what had she seen in him that was so special? Why couldn't she had just stayed on their side of the border, not bringing her complicated relationship in between them? "What's it to you, Patchedmask?"
“Rainsong made me a promise.” Patchedmask meowed. “There’s no reason to get snappy. I see that her and I have both moved on.”
Sunchaser thrashed his tail. He guessed he understood Patchedmask’s want to see his own kits, but he didn’t have to be extremely pleased about it. Rainsong and him were finally getting along again, and the kits really enjoyed playing with him. He assumed the kits even thought Sunchaser was their father, just like the rest of TwistedClan. “I don’t know what she will say to the kits, but you can see them at least.” Sunchaser finally responded. “I was supposed to help bring them out anyway.”
“I can meet here next moon?” Patchedmask asked.
“I suppose that could work.”
“I’ll be here.” Patchedmask nodded. “Don’t blame her for the mistake we made. We were both young and dumb, just give her time.” He added and padded back in his own territory.
Sunchaser didn't say another word. He had things to think about and trotted along to rejoin his hunting patrol. "Where's that squirrel you caught?" Neritefang asked him as he approached. Sunchaser froze. He had forgotten it in all the chatting.
"It ran through a decaying rabbit before I got to it. It was really gross." Sunchaser said weakly. She looked doubtful but only introduced him to the new cat they found instead. Sunchaser had more important thoughts on his mind. He decided to swing by the nursery after the patrol returned to camp.
“Sunchaser, could you take us hunting with you?” Petalkit squealed. She pounced on his tail as soon as he entered the nursery. “Please, pretty please!”
He raised his tail out of her reach. “A baby sparrow would just snatch you up.”
“We’re big enough!” Dovekit ran circles around him. “We can catch a sparrow!”
“He just came back from hunting, leave him be.” Rainsong was trying to unsuccessfully rest her eyes. Silverstem had been out with Wolfclaw, so she was all alone in the nursery.
“How about I take them outside and show them a proper hunting crouch?” Sunchaser offered.
Rainsong shot him a grateful look. “If they are too annoying, send them back.” She curled up and was snoring softly a few moments later. Sunchaser doubted she would wake up even if he shook her, so he herded the three kits outside.
“Keep your front end low.” Sunchaser instructed. “Your hind will also remain low, but if you’re stalking it’s harder to keep to the ground.” The three kits were now stalking around camp.
“How am I doing, Sunchaser?” Patchkit called.
“Good.” Sunchaser wasn’t really paying attention. His thoughts were now elsewhere focusing on the problem of Patchedmask. He and Rainsong were now getting along better, and he didn’t think another meeting would help their relationship at all. He considered just never telling her about their conversation, perhaps even embellishing the story to say Patchedmask wanted nothing else to do with any of them. However, if he wanted his relationship to improve with Rainsong, lying did not seem like the way to achieve that. The afternoon seemed to quickly fade to evening, and Sunchaser had to practically drag the kits back into the nursery. They were very restless and clearly were not ready for a nap. Rainsong was still dozing when they entered. Silverstem had returned from her excursion, so Sunchaser handed off kit duty to her. He carefully prodded Rainsong awake. “I need to talk with you outside. Silverstem has the kits.” He muttered. Still groggy, she didn’t argue and slipped outside with him. He quickly debriefed her on his meeting with Patchedmask.
“He has another mate?” Rainsong asked.
“That’s what you got out of this conversation?” Sunchaser exclaimed exasperated.
“I’m just glad he moved on.” Rainsong flicked his side. “I did too, you know.”
“Sometimes I’m not sure.” Sunchaser hung his head down low. “I miss when we were just a small Clan hanging out. No worries and no problems.”
“I don’t.” Rainsong placed a paw on his. “I only miss how happy we were together. I want to be happy with you again.”
“I want that too.” Sunchaser whispered. He intertwined his tail with hers. They sat for a while in the evening breeze. “You never mentioned he had different colored eyes.” He said after a while.
Rainsong snorted. “I didn’t think you’d appreciate me mentioning that. What, did you like them?”
“It’s not like they made his appearance worse.” Sunchaser muttered. Rainsong burst out laughing and eventually he did as well. Perhaps they could work through this after all.
Neritefang, Wolfclaw, and Toadsplash had split off from their main hunting patrol and was scouring for signs of prey. Neritefang’s joints were starting to hint at stiffness but was putting off a visit to the medicine den to avoid any pity or claims that she was uncapable of remaining a warrior. She knew her time lounging around, having ticks picked from her pelt from the misbehaving apprentices was nearing, but she wanted to put those thoughts far from her mind. TwistedClan allowed her the freedom to patrol without judgements about being much older than the other cats, and she didn’t want to waste the chance. She took off after a stray mouse, ignoring the sharp flashes of pain from her shoulders and haunches. Bursting through a bush, she tackled an unsuspecting cat and tumbled into a heap. Her old bones really hurt after this rough landing, but she couldn’t show any sign of weakness in front of this potential threat. The stranger was longhaired, mostly white with brown snips on his face.
“I didn’t recall asking to be plowed into the ground.” He groaned and wiped dirt from his face. “Where are you going in such a hurry?” He drawled.
Neritefang tsked in annoyance. “I was hunting. You were in my way.” The other two of her patrol came up behind her.
The white cat bristled. “What is this?”
“A hunting patrol.” Wolfclaw started off a lot more diplomatic than Neritefang. “Don’t worry, we aren’t an ambush.”
“Good, I’m too old for a three on one fight.” The cat still kept his sharpened claws in the view of the others. “But if I’m pushed, I don’t mind spilling a bit of blood.”
“You just passing through?” Wolfclaw asked.
“If you’ll allow me.” The cat shrugged. “I was planning on staying in this forest overnight and leaving later, but if more cats are going to barrel into me, I can wander out faster.”
“How about spending the night with us?” Wolfclaw offered. “We have a shelter with a clan of cats.”
“Y’all a clan?” The cat asked. “I’ll be darned. I reckon I can check it out. I’m Marsh.”
The TwistedClan cats shared an amused look. Marsh must have come from very far away; his dialect was very strange. Briarwhisper and Stonefrost were surprised to meet a new cat when they met back up carrying their catches but quickly warmed up to him. Sunchaser was the last to show up, and they all made their way back to the cabin.
Morningstar just wanted to take a nap. She felt huge. She looked huge. But Wolfclaw wanted to brief her on the day, and there was a new cat joining them. Ruststripe wasn’t back with Nightpaw yet, so she couldn’t even pass it off on him. The tom was older, and Morningstar figured he might join them as an elder.
“Howdy, I’m Marsh.” He introduced.
She was taken aback by his strange words. “Greetings. I’m Morningstar, the leader here.” She ran through a bunch of suffixes in her head. “I assume you are staying with us permanently?”
“For a night or so at least.” Marsh shrugged.
Morningstar narrowed her eyes. “That doesn’t help me.”
“We’ll just see where our paths take us, hon.” Marsh casually said.
Her eyes narrowed into slits. “That is not my name. And if you stay, you’ll have to change yours.”
“Change my name?” Marsh didn’t sound so pleasant anymore. “Why would I do that?”
“You’ll receive a clan name. Marsh is fine for the first part of the name, but we’ll add something else to it.” She gestured to Crowtalon a few feet away. “His name was originally Crow, but now he is Crowtalon.”
“Well, I don’t like the sound of that.” Marsh huffed. “I have had my name for my entire life, and I’m not about to change it.”
Wolfclaw could tell Morningstar was getting very annoyed. “We can discuss this at another time.” He interrupted. “Let’s give you a tour. I’m sure you’re tired, Morningstar, so I can take it from here.” He said apologetically.
“Whatever.” The leader closed her eyes. “I’m going to bed. Send Ruststripe to me when he returns.”
|
|
|
Post by spasticjazzhands on Sept 30, 2019 16:46:43 GMT -8
THE FIRST BITE ( 027 ) LAST MOON “Good, Nightpaw!” Ruststripe purred. Nightpaw landed with the bird he snatched out of the air hanging from his jaws.
He raised an eyebrow at the tabby. “I thought you were supposed to be hidden.” Nightpaw spat out a feather.
“That was a great catch to end on,” Ruststripe continued. “It’s getting late in the evening. We can head back now.”
“Did I pass?” Nightpaw didn’t want to assume anything even though Ruststripe seemed very pleased.
“Of course, you did.” Ruststripe grinned. “I wasn’t worried you would fail anyway.” Nightpaw swished his tail back in forth happily. “I’m proud of you, Nightpaw.” Ruststripe continued. “I’m proud to call you my apprentice.”
Nightpaw’s fur became uncomfortably hot. He wasn’t used to this level of compliments. “Thanks.” He said awkwardly.
Ruststripe laughed. “You can run ahead if you want. I’m sure Flamepaw will want to know how today went.”
This didn’t make Nightpaw less embarrassed but the short run through the forest helped. He was surprised by a new tom sniffing around the camp. Flamepaw, Rushingpaw, and Starlingpaw ambushed him before he could ask Wolfclaw what was going on. “Did you pass?” They all yelled. Nightpaw nodded. “I knew it!” Flamepaw said.
“Lucky.” Starlingpaw said, just a bit bitterly.
“You’ll be taking yours next moon. You both will.” Nightpaw shrugged. “What’s up with the old man?”
“His name is Marsh.” Starlingpaw explained. “You missed him and Morningstar arguing about changing his name.”
“And he talks weird.” Rushingpaw added.
“And he’s not deaf.” Marsh stood behind the group. Wolfclaw did not look happy at their gossiping.
“Sorry,” Rushingpaw’s tail drooped.
“Why don’t you go gather moss for his nest?” Wolfclaw shooed the apprentices away. “How’d you do, Nightpaw?”
“Good,” Nightpaw took this time to take in the new elder. “I passed.”
“Nightpaw took his warrior assessment today.” Wolfclaw explained to Marsh. “Tomorrow he will receive his warrior name.”
“I bet if you ask, you can keep the name ‘Nightpaw’ if you want.” Marsh told Nightpaw.
“I’ve worked hard to not be called Nightpaw.” He shrugged. Wolfclaw nodded at him.
“Well, I’ve lived long enough to be called whatever I want.” Marsh huffed. “And that’ll be Marsh.” Nightpaw excused himself. He wasn’t up to arguing with them; he just wanted to curl up in his nest.
“Nightpaw do you promise to uphold TwistedClan’s traditions and to protect the Clan with your life?” Wolfclaw called from the Ceremony Tree.
“I do.” Nightpaw said.
“Then, I give you your warrior name, Nightpelt. Remember that your Clan is always there for you even in the darkest times.” Wolfclaw rested his muzzle on Nightpelt’s forehead while TwistedClan cheered.
Morningstar congratulated him from her spot at the base of the tree, but her mind was spinning at the words Wolfclaw had used. He said very appropriate words for the possible issues to come.
PRESENT Cloudpaw ducked under Stormpaw’s paw swiping at her head. Countering his attack, she darted forward throwing her weight into his shoulders, knocking him off balance. She had now thrown him off his rhythm. “Good, Cloudpaw!” Claystream encouraged her apprentice.
“Roll with her and grapple with your back legs.” Blossomfall suggested to Stormpaw. Stormpaw snagged her with his claws and brought them both tumbling to the dirt. His back paws scratched at her belly as she batted his ears.
“Regain control.” Claystream called, but Stormpaw had already heaved Cloudpaw off in a heap and she rolled into a bush. She laid there for a second trying to make the world stop spinning until she heard a soft growling. She spun her head to notice she was facing a salivating fox stepping near her. She shrieked and bolted as the fox lunged at her. The fox grazed her leg drawing a bit of blood, but she escaped to the clearing. The warriors hissed in surprise and sprang into action. Birchwhisker, Claystream, and Blossomfall were the closest to the fox, so they were the first to attack. The fox got a hold of Blossomfall’s neck and pulled her closer. Claystream slashed at the fox’s nose, and Birchwhisker attacked its flank. Toadsplash and Sagefeather attacked from the other side and overwhelmed the fox. It staggered away, lurching back and forth on its feet.
“Should we finish it off?” Toadsplash panted.
“It’s weakened and won’t survive for long. Let’s take care of Blossomfall first.” Wolfclaw looked at the warrior bleeding on the ground. Her eyes were closed, and she was breathing unevenly. “Should we move her?”
“I don’t think we have a choice. She’ll bleed out before Spottednose or Galalight gets here first. Here.” Birchwhisker hoisted Blossomfall up, and Wolfclaw and Claystream helped support her weight. The three slowly moved towards the camp. Sagefeather saw the apprentices were horrified and tried to regain their attention.
“Cloudpaw, did you get cut?” She asked. Toadsplash started to sniff the other apprentices, making sure everyone else was unscathed. Sunchaser and Briarwhisper took off following the trail of blood to track the fox.
“Yes, it got my leg.” Cloudpaw showed the cut. “It stings a bit.”
“Rushingpaw? Can you and Honeypaw take her back as well?” Birchwhisker sent the three back to camp. “Everyone else okay?”
“Everything else looks good.” Sagefeather said. “It’s odd how we didn’t really scent it beforehand.”
“Sunchaser did mention smelling a rotting smell, but we wrote it off as an old piece of prey. It didn’t really smell like a fox.” Toadsplash frowned.
“Is it going to come back?” Maplepaw meekly asked.
“Of course not.” Sagefeather assured. Sunchaser and Briarwhisper returned out of breath.
“It’s dead.” Sunchaser said.
“And smells awful.” Briarwhisper wrinkled her nose. “It must have been sick with a fever or something.”
“Let’s just head back.” Sagefeather cut her off. She didn’t want to frighten the apprentices any more.
Crowtalon was making light chit chat with Rainsong, Mallardwing, and Valleyrunner while Morningstar was in labor. Her groans were echoing from the medicine cat den. “What’s wrong with her?” Patchkit asked her mother.
“Bringing kits into the world hurts.” Rainsong said. “Go play with your sisters; you don’t have to be worried about her.” Patchkit ran off. “He is always worrying about something.” She returned her attention to the group.
“That’s cute he’s so concerned.” Valleyrunner laughed.
“I can’t wait until I have kits.” Mallardwing said.
“They’re great, but I also have not gotten a good night’s sleep without a claw stabbing me somewhere.” Rainsong said.
Crowtalon laughed. “That’s nothing if you have to put up with his snoring every night.” He flicked his tail on Valleyrunner’s side.
“Hm,” Rainsong grunted. “I’m sure kits are exactly like snoring.”
“It’s not like we’ve had some of our own.” Crowtalon said.
“Don’t start an argument now.” Valleyrunner shot him a look. “I deal better with your debates with a full stomach.”
“I was just saying that kits aren’t the only thing that keeps cats awake at night.” Crowtalon said. “I’m not saying that to discredit you or anything…”
“I could have your kits.” Mallardwing interrupted. The three stopped in mid sentence and stared at her. “What? It’s not like I have my own mate yet or anything. And if you guys want some, then it’s a win-win for all of us.”
“We’d have to think about it.” Valleyrunner said slowly. “But we’ll definitely consider it.” Crowtalon nodded. They were all quiet for a moment, allowing them all to immediately notice something wrong. It wasn’t just them that grew silent in the natural lull of conversation, but the entire forest seemed to sense something was wrong. The unnatural silence was broken by Birchwhisker, Wolfclaw, and Claystream carrying Blossomfall. Rainsong knew something was not right and hurried to herd her kits away from witnessing the chaos.
“Get Spottednose!” Wolfclaw ordered. Mallardwing and Crowtalon both jumped to their feet, now smelling the stench of blood. However, Spottednose had heard his name yelled and poked his head out briefly to assess the situation.
“Stay with Morningstar.” He ordered Galalight on his way to grab a mouthful of herbs. He sprinted to where the warriors set Blossomfall down. Her eyes were shut, and her breath rattled in and out heavily. Her throat was torn open and blood bubbled out with each breath, dying the grass red. Spottednose pressed his paws lightly to her gash but didn’t reach for any of the herbs he grabbed.
“Do you need me to do anything?” Claystream crouched by the herbs he brought.
“No,” Spottednose rested his head above Blossomfall’s face. “It’s too late for her.” He held his head above her muzzle until her breath stopped moving his whiskers. “She’s with StarClan now.”
“A worthy warrior.” Birchwhisker lowered her head. The next group from the training session returned to camp. Rushingpaw and Honeypaw were supporting Cloudpaw between them.
“Go wash the blood off.” Spottednose told the warriors. “Cloudpaw, what’s wrong?”
“A fox grazed my leg.” Cloudpaw winced. “It’s stinging.”
Spottednose spun a cobweb around her leg. “We’ll see how this holds up. It should stop bleeding soon.”
“Is she…?” Rushingpaw stood on her tiptoes to look at Blossomfall.
“She’s dead.” Spottednose said. “Go to the cabin until we know what is going on.”
“No need.” The last of the training group had arrived. “It’s dead too.” Briarwhisper said. “And we didn’t find a trace of another one.” Thunderpaw, Willowpaw, Goosepaw, Stormpaw, and Maplepaw scurried off to check on their sister. Rainsong beckoned Sunchaser over to her, still shielding the kits from the gore. She licked his face quickly, making sure he was okay.
One last groan was heard throughout the camp. Ruststripe poked his head out of the medicine den happily. “We have kits!” He called. His face fell when he took in the bloody scene in front of him. “What happened?”
|
|
|
Post by spasticjazzhands on Sept 30, 2019 16:49:30 GMT -8
THE CURIOUS ILLNESS ( 028 ) LAST MOON Wolfclaw, Spottednose, and Sunchaser delivered Blossomfall to her final resting place at the Burial Site. Colorful wildflowers dotted the field, swaying in the gentle breeze. Neritefang, Toadsplash, and Sagefeather had already dug out a grave to lay the fallen warrior in, and Galalight transferred a large group of flowers to the area. Morningstar and Silverstem had stayed in camp with Morningstar’s three new kits: Tigerkit, Riverkit, and Cinderkit. Cloudpaw also stayed behind resting her leg. The warriors and apprentices sat somberly, as Blossomfall was laid to rest. Even Rainsong’s kits sat quiet in the back.
“Tonight, there will be one more shining star in the sky.” Wolfclaw said. “Blossomfall died fighting for the safety of TwistedClan, and she will be greatly honored.” He turned to Sunchaser. “Would you like to say a few words?”
The orange warrior nodded. “I was only Blossomfall’s mentor for a few short moons, but she was the strongest, most opinionated cat I’ve ever met. I am proud to of had such a brave warrior fighting beside me.” He took a pawful of dirt and tossed it into the grave. Galalight was the next to push dirt in, followed by Wolfclaw, Spottednose, Mallardwing, and cycled through all of TwistedClan present. Soon the dirt was packed back down.
“How are you holding up?” Spottednose quietly asked Galalight on their trek back to camp.
“I just can’t believe that she’s actually gone.” Galalight said.
“She may be gone from TwistedClan, but she’s not gone from our lives.” Spottednose responded. “I’m sure she’ll be excited to visit you from StarClan.”
“Are you sure she’ll visit me?” Galalight asked. “You mentioned Stormstrike was silent for many moons after he died.”
Spottednose’s mood darkened. “I’m assuming StarClan will be more talkative with the new prophecy, but I’m sure they’ll still follow their own agenda. Did you ever meet Gingerblaze?”
“Briefly.”
“I would be on the lookout for him as well. Him and Pebblepaw.”
Birchwhisker sat watching the warrior ceremony close to Sunchaser, Rainsong, and her kits. She hadn’t told anyone that she knew those kits weren’t Sunchaser’s, and now it seemed like she would never have to. They were starting to get along like they used to once more.
“Stop fidgeting.” Rainsong scolded Dovekit.
“I’m bored.” She complained. “I want to be made an apprentice.”
Birchwhisker chuckled to herself. It was crazy how they grew up so fast. In two moons, they would be apprentices, and her own kits would be taking their warrior assessments then. She was so proud of each of her kits, but she really wished Stormstrike could be here with her. She knew he was watching from StarClan, but it’s just not the same. She shook her head trying to focus on the present. Morningstar was presiding over this time, Silverstem watching her young kits.
“Starlingpaw, do you promise to uphold TwistedClan’s traditions and to protect the Clan with your life?” Morningstar asked in the Ceremony Tree.
“I do.” Starlingpaw said.
“Then, I give you your warrior name, Starlingsky. Remember that if you continue practicing your patience, good things will still come.” Morningstar rested her muzzle on Starlingsky’s forehead. Then she turned to Flamepaw. “Flamepaw, do you promise to uphold TwistedClan’s traditions and to protect the Clan with your life?”
“I do.” Flamepaw said.
“Then, I give you your warrior name, Flameleap. Even though your jumping skills worked against you this past assessment,” Morningstar paused as everyone chuckled. “remember, to always use your strengths.”
“Starlingsky! Flameleap!” TwistedClan welcomed the new warriors. Morningstar and Flameleap both awkwardly slid down to the ground with both of their foot injuries. Flameleap was just glad his wasn’t permanent.
“Do you want to come meet the kits?” Morningstar asked Birchwhisker.
“Of course,” Birchwhisker purred and followed her into the nursery. The three tiny kits curled up by Silverstem, their eyes still shut. “They’re beautiful.”
“Thanks, I’m to blame for that.” Ruststripe said from behind the two.
“Sure you are.”
Silverstem slipped out of the nursery. “Did you see the kits?” She asked Wolfclaw.
He looked at her tiredly. “I’ve been pretty busy lately.” He sighed. “There’s two?”
“Three.” She corrected. “How was the burial?”
“It went well. Galalight made sure everything looked really nice.” He said. “It was hard burying such a young cat.”
“It really is,” Silverstem said quietly. “I hope Cloudpaw will be alright.”
“She should be; it’s just a small bite on her leg.” Wolfclaw sounded hopeful. “And Sunchaser didn’t see any other signs of predators.”
“I hope so. I would want a safe place to raise a family.” Silverstem said.
Wolfclaw pricked his ears forward. “What are you saying?”
“I would like to try to have a family again if you would too.” Silverstem offered.
“Only if you’re sure.” Wolfclaw said.
Silverstem leaned up against him. “I’m sure.”
“I love you.”
“I love you.”
PRESENT Flameleap and Starlingsky watched Rushingpaw spar with Nightpelt. The apprentice was tiring, but she still blocked most of his attacks. “Why are you even concerned?” Starlingsky asked. “You’re doing great.”
Rushingpaw paused to answer, and Nightpelt took that cue to bowl her over. “You never know what could happen.” She said on the ground.
“Starlingsky, can you take over now?” Nightpelt asked. He calmly walked over to sit down and cleaned his paws and ears. Starlingsky took his place, and they quickly began fighting.
“What do you think of the fox?” Flameleap asked, eyes still on the two mollies.
“Well, what about it?” Nightpelt paused with his paw still over his ear.
“Do you think there’s more foxes out there?” Flameleap asked.
“Sunchaser didn’t think so.” Nightpelt shrugged. “I’m sure there will always be a stray fox or two somewhere nearby.”
Rushingpaw knocked Starlingsky to the ground and let out a celebratory yowl. The toms’ attention was brought back to the training apprentice. Starlingsky shook dust from her pelt. “Again?” Rushingpaw asked, but the older warrior shook her head.
“You’ll do fine.” She assured her. The four started back to camp, but Flameleap held back a few tail lengths, and Nightpelt looked back curiously.
“I like you.” Flameleap said nervously.
“I know.” Nightpelt faced front once more. “Coming?”
Maplepaw, Willowpaw, Stormpaw, and Honeypaw planned their excursion would just be hanging out, but Stormpaw and Willowpaw wanted to explore near the training grounds.
“What if there’s a den of foxes nearby?” Maplepaw asked nervously.
“They didn’t find any.” Willowpaw said.
“And if we find a den, we’ll get made warriors early!” Stormpaw waved his tail excitedly. Maplepaw balked.
“Don’t worry.” Honeypaw said smoothly. “I’ll protect you.”
“Barf!” Willowpaw gagged. Stormpaw snorted. Maplepaw ducked her head, trying to hide her smile. Willowpaw ran ahead. “I think this is where the fox died!” She called. The other apprentices hurried to see her discovery. The ground was stained dark and smelled like a sickly death. The body was disposed of by a group of warriors, but the spirit still seemed to linger. The entire area felt wrong, uneasy.
“I don’t smell anything fresh.” Honeypaw said.
“Should we look around?” Stormpaw tried to make this question sound offhand, but he still glanced left to right looking for any danger.
“I don’t think there’s anything to find.” Maplepaw’s voice was shrill.
“We already checked this place out.” Willowpaw said quickly. “Nothing here.”
“I guess we’ll go back.” Stormpaw suppressed a sigh of relief.
“And you have your warrior assessment coming up next moon.” Maplepaw pointed out to Honeypaw.
“Right, let’s go.”
Cloudpaw remained in the medicine cat den, resisting Thunderpaw and Goosepaw’s urges to come eat with them. She eventually shooed them away, agreeing to eat after her nap. She didn’t know if she really would, she wasn’t terribly hungry, and she just wanted her headache to go away.
“We need to talk.” Valleyrunner turned to his mate. They were lying beside the creek, dipping their paws in to cool off.
“Oh,” Crowtalon brought a damp paw to his face and let droplets drip down. “Elaborate.”
“Are we really going to stay here?” Valleyrunner asked. “A cat just got mauled.”
“It was handled nevertheless.” Crowtalon raised an eyebrow. “Do you want me to argue the side of staying or switch it up?”
Valleyrunner sighed. “I don’t want to debate. This is serious, and I want to have a discussion. That could have been you or me.”
“Even if we had travelled to the mountains like we planned, that still could have happened.” Crowtalon said.
“Yes, but…” Valleyrunner paused. “At least we would have been doing whatever we wanted and not be ordered to go on patrols and whatnot.”
“We could leave, I guess.” Crowtalon said. “But I would prefer to stay. And what about Mallardwing’s offer? We can’t necessarily have kits by ourselves, and we’ve always talked about finding a way to have a family.”
Valleyrunner ran his paws over the river pebbles in thought. “That is a plus. Can I think about it some more?”
“Of course.” Crowtalon smiled. “And when you are ready for that debate, just let me know.”
Marsh was minding his own business when Rainsong’s three kits came tumbling near him, kicking up dust. “Why don’tcha play a quieter game?”
“We’re not playing!” Dovekit exclaimed. “We’re practicing our fighting moves!”
“Do you know any?” Petalkit asked.
“Perhaps.” Marsh said.
“Would you please show us?” Patchkit asked.
“Maybe when my joints aren’t as stiff.” Marsh sat down with a grunt. “It’s gonna rain soon.”
“How’d ya know?” Petalkit asked.
“I get sore when rain’s a’comin’.” Marsh said.
“Can you tell us a story?” Dovekit asked.
“I’ll tell you about the first time I met a fox.” Marsh said, lowering his voice to a storytelling tone.
“Like the one that killed Blossomfall?” Patchkit said.
“Yes.” Marsh nodded. “It was a stormy night in the middle of newleaf. I was young and growing too confident in the easy hunting of the prairie I was livin’ in at the time. My guard was down, so when I saw a small cave opening, I dashed in to get outta the wind and rain. But! There were two big green eyes staring back at me. I dunno know which one of us was more surprised, but we both ran out of the cave into the dark night. Being young, I chased it down since it ran from me. It was young but still a bit larger than I was, but I didn’t care. The bushy tail but lithe figure intrigued me, but eventually it turned around and gave me a few good scratches. Later on, seeing even larger ones made me warier of strange creatures. It’s a good lesson to remember, I reckon: don’t mess with things you don’t understand.”
|
|