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Post by spasticjazzhands on Sept 30, 2019 16:55:54 GMT -8
THE COLLAPSE ( 029 ) LAST MOON “Rushingpaw, do you promise to uphold TwistedClan’s traditions and to protect the Clan with your life?” Morningstar called from the Ceremony Tree.
“I do.” Rushingpaw said, chest puffed out proudly.
“Then, I give you your warrior name, Rushingflame. Remember that no one can extinguish your spirit.” Morningstar rested her muzzle on Rushingflame’s forehead while TwistedClan cheered. Sagefeather’s voice was the loudest.
“I’m so proud of you!” Sagefeather nuzzled her daughter.
PRESENT Cloudpaw was nudged awake by Spottednose. “Huh?” She shook her head groggily.
Spottednose gave one last sniff to her leg. “You’re good to go.”
“It still stings a bit.” She stretched it, wincing as it was still stiff.
“It should be fine with light activity. You aren’t going to get much better just laying here.” Spottednose said. “You can always come back if anything changes.”
Birchwhisker had a long day ahead of her. She was trotting through the forest on a hunting patrol but also had to assess Honeypaw in the hot sun. Next moon, her own kits would attempt their warrior assessment and that thought sent pangs of worry through her body. She was very proud and excited but sending her own litter out into the dangerous world gave her doubts. Plus, Cloudpaw was still feeling a bit ill. What she would do to have Stormstrike by her side once more.
Ruststripe smelled something odd. He immediately was put on high alert. He heard Claystream’s mew of excitement and quickly turned. She had only caught a vole, and he relaxed. Did the vole smell…different? He wasn’t sure but didn’t step closer to look closer. However, he could see saliva dripping from the dead vole’s ajar mouth. “Good catch!” Toadsplash called to his mate. Wolfclaw nodded approvingly. And the hunt continued.
Briarwhisper watched as Sunchaser and Rainsong worked together to stalk a thrush. It was her first moon back on patrols as their kits were now apprentices. “Hey, where’s your mind at?” Stonefrost nudged her shoulder. “Aren’t we supposed to be catching food?”
“I don’t want to tiptoe around us anymore,” Briarwhisper said. “Do you want to be mates?”
“Mates?” Stonefrost sounded surprised. “With you?”
Briarwhisper’s fur burned in embarrassment. “I’m sorry…I must have read our relationship wrong.”
“Not at all!” Stonefrost stammered quickly. “I just wasn’t expecting that at all. I thought you were going to say you didn’t sleep well. I would be very happy to become mates with such a beauty.”
“Hey.” Mallardwing jumped at the sound of Valleyrunner’s voice. She wasn’t expecting the two toms sitting next to her while eating a light breakfast of vole. “Didn’t mean to startle you.”
“Wanna bite?” Mallardwing swallowed her surprise. Crowtalon took her up on the offer and took a large bite.
“We have been discussing your previous offer.” Valleyrunner started.
“Kiphs!” Crowtalon was muffled with his mouth full.
“Kits.” Valleyrunner translated.
“Oh, right!” Mallardwing waved her tail happily.
“And if the offer is still valid, I think it would be a great idea.” Valleyrunner finished.
“I’m still up for it.” Mallardwing said. “I’m glad I could help.”
Sagefeather jumped in the creek. “Come on Willowpaw!” She called. “The water feels nice and cool.” The apprentices were learning swimming today, even Cloudpaw. She had been cleared to do light exercise, so she was out stretching her legs. Toadsplash and Thunderpaw didn’t hesitate to dip their paws in and were soon in the middle of the creek. Willowpaw followed reluctantly. Sunchaser had to nudge Goosepaw into the shallows, and Briarwhisper dragged Maplepaw in by the scruff.
“Come on, Cloudpaw.” Stormpaw said softly. “I’ll go in with you.”
“My head hurts.” Cloudpaw complained. “I’m thirsty.” She had her eyes shut and mouth slightly open. Thick tendrils of saliva dripped down and coated the grass.
“We can get a drink in the creek.” Stormpaw said worriedly.
“It’s too bright.” Cloudpaw’s voice was hoarse. Stormpaw looked to Claystream for help.
“We can cool you off in the shallows.” Claystream nudged her towards the water. She was starting to get concerned.
Cloudpaw took a few wobbling steps and collapsed.
“Cloudpaw!”
Birchwhisker was prepared to see her kits grow up into warriors soon and watch them from a further distance, but she wasn’t ready to bury one of her own kits. Cloudpaw was laid to rest next to Blossomfall, flowers still in full bloom. Morningstar stayed behind with her to sit in front of the grave a bit more.
“I’m sorry.” Morningstar said. “If you need anything, just ask.”
“Why did it have to be her?” Birchwhisker asked. “I would have gladly swapped places.”
“I don’t know why it had to be Cloudpaw, but I do know your other kits still need you know more than ever.” Morningstar said. “TwistedClan will always be here.” She tried not to sound doubtful of that last statement. If this was related to the prophecy, it sure wasn’t over yet.
Galalight watched Spottednose’s hurried actions as he spun around pushing herbs around. “Spottednose, you’re muttering to yourself again.” She said concerned.
“I’m making sure everything is in its place!” Spottednose snapped. She saw that he was taking care to group the poisons still in the back but easily reachable. “If another cat gets dehydrated in this heat, we need to be prepared.”
“Patchkit, it is time for you to be apprenticed. From this day on, you will be known as Patchpaw, and your mentor will be Claystream.” Morningstar paused, allowing for Claystream and Patchpaw to touch noses. “Dovekit, it is time for you to be apprenticed. From this day on, you will be known as Dovepaw, and your mentor will be Crowtalon.” Morningstar continued. “And lastly, Petalkit. It is time for you to be apprenticed. From this day on, you will be known as Petalpaw, and your mentor will be Starlingsky.” Morningstar finished the apprentice ceremony. She approached Starlingsky.
“Thank you for choosing me to be a mentor.” Starlingsky looked as excited as Petalpaw.
“Thank you for being patient.” Morningstar smiled. “Well, mostly patient.” Starlingsky ducked her head and laughed. Morningstar walked to back to the cabin where Ruststripe and her kits were waiting.
“Can we become apprentices yet?” Tigerkit asked.
“In a few moons.” Morningstar chuckled.
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Post by spasticjazzhands on Sept 30, 2019 17:02:25 GMT -8
THE RECONCILING ( 030 ) LAST MOON Birchwhisker followed an ecstatic Honeypaw back into camp. Her news of him passing his warrior assessment sent him barreling back to the cabin…probably to tell Maplepaw first, Birchwhisker smiled to herself. She could tell the two were starting to grow fond of each other. She closed her eyes in relief when the camp entrance came into view; she thought she was back in shape after training an apprentice for six moons, but a full-out sprint proved she still had room for improvement. Honeypaw had stopped in his tracks, causing Birchwhisker to ram into him pushing back the overgrown ferns. She grunted in surprise and pushed him forward sending him sprawling. “Sorry,” She pulled him up by his scruff. “Wasn’t expecting to run into a distracted furball.”
“No, I-I’m sorry.” Honeypaw scurried to the side. Now her path was cleared, Birchwhisker could see a smaller light gray form laying on the ground surrounded by Spottednose, Galalight, and a group of concerned warriors. She took a few steps forward.
“Cloudpaw?” She whispered.
Sunchaser heard her and turned from his position crouching by the apprentice. “She collapsed while training. She’s still alive but…” He softly trailed off. Birchwhisker shook her head. First Stormstrike, now Cloudpaw…which one of my loved ones will be taken from me next?
“Honeypaw, do you promise to uphold TwistedClan’s traditions and to protect the Clan with your life?” Morningstar called from the Ceremony Tree.
“I do.” Honeypaw said.
“Then, I give you your warrior name, Honeytail. Remember that not everything can be solved by friendly chats.” Morningstar rested her muzzle on Honeypaw’s forehead while TwistedClan yelled his new warrior name. “Good job, Honeytail.” Morningstar whispered. Honeytail lashed his tail with his chest puffed out. He could get used to cats cheering his name. Perhaps in time.
Mallardwing was the one to surprise the two toms this time. “We’re going to have kits!” She snagged Valleyrunner’s tail, and he jumped.
“Let’s not start a trend in scaring each other.” Valleyrunner grumbled.
“Yeah, trends end. We can make it a tradition.” Crowtalon suggested. Mallardwing swished her tail happily as she received an unamused glare from Valleyrunner.
PRESENT “Stop, they’re going to be fine.” Sunchaser tried his best to sound soothing.
“I just want to peek at them quick to see how they’re doing.” Rainsong pleaded. “It’ll only be a second.”
“They’re old enough,” Sunchaser placed his tail on her shoulders. “How about we stretch our legs a bit?” Rainsong perked up. “Away from your kits.” Sunchaser added.
“Fine, fine.” Rainsong relented. “I’m not trying to be an overprotective parent…”
“You are.” Sunchaser pointed out. They ducked under the ferns and stepped into the forest.
“I’m leaving it alone now!” Rainsong chuckled. “But I’ll always worry about our kits.”
Sunchaser choked. “Our kits?”
She missed his initial smile. “Right, sorry…I didn’t mean…”
“No, no, no! I love that.” Sunchaser stopped to nuzzle her. “I know they’re not mine, but they are starting to feel like it. They’re wonderful kits.”
“They’re wonderful because you’ve stuck with me.” Rainsong said softly. “I’m very happy you did.”
“I’m just glad I got past my ego and talked through it with you.” Sunchaser said. He paused. “Wait, do you smell that?”
“Is it another fox?” Rainsong quickly sniffed the air. “No, more…cats?”
“To the north.” Sunchaser muttered. Sure enough, there was a trio of cats traipsing through the underbrush. There were two toms and one molly who all seemed to be rather lost. The two TwistedClan cats moved forward with caution.
“Hello!” Rainsong called, causing the new cats to freeze. “Can we help you?”
“Passing through.” The silvery tan tom said smoothly. “Unless you have a problem?”
“It’s just you’re in our territory.” Sunchaser narrowed his eyes. He wasn’t about to be challenged on his own land, even if they were outnumbered.
“I don’t see the harm of walking.” The orange and white tabby tom said loudly.
“We’ll get out of your hair.” The gray molly tried to sooth her companions.
“We can show you to the edge of TwistedClan’s borders.” Rainsong offered.
“TwistedClan?” The loud cat asked. “What kind of Clan is that?”
Sunchaser opened his mouth, ready to launch into a vicious retort. He didn’t enjoy the tone the toms were speaking in, but now Rainsong was the one to rest her tail on his shoulders. “Easy.” She muttered. “Our Clan sits among the twisted trees of this forest. When the trees stop growing gnarled, you’ve gone far enough to get out of our hair.”
“You live with other cats?” The gray cat asked.
“Lots more.” Rainsong said.
“Could I check it out?” She asked. Her two companions shared a confused look.
“Gray, what’re you doing?” One of them said.
“You don’t have to come.” Gray shrugged. “I want to try something new.”
“I’ll at least make sure you aren’t ambushed.” The lighter tom said.
“I can take care of myself, Minnow.” Gray rolled her eyes.
“Come if you want,” Sunchaser said. “No ambushes, promise.” They quickly learned the loud cat was named Wind on the way to the camp. “Right through here,” Sunchaser held branches back for the group. “is TwistedClan.”
Morningstar and Ruststripe looked up curiously, their three kits running around. The new cats glanced around, staying close together in their group. Uncomfortable grunts drifted from the medicine cat den; Silverstem must have finally gone into labor. Sagefeather and Wolfclaw were sharing a vole with Wolfclaw looking worriedly towards the sound of his mate. Marsh looked like he was in the middle of a story, hopefully soothing the nerves of the five apprentices about to take their warrior assessments. Mallardwing was laying by Valleyrunner, Nightpelt, and Flameleap, tail curled around her belly. Camp was bustling with life.
“Are you planning on joining us?” Morningstar approached them.
“No.” Wind quickly said.
“Maybe.” Minnow shrugged.
“I think so.” Gray said.
Wind took in the sight of the camp once more and sighed. “Fine.”
“Sunchaser, are they joining us?” Morningstar raised a brow.
“A trial period perhaps.” Sunchaser shifted his weight. Morningstar thought for a second and nodded. “I’ll show them around, then.”
Wolfclaw nuzzled Silverstem and warmly gazed at their newborn kits. “They’re beautiful just like you.” He murmured in her ear.
“They really are.” Silverstem curled up around the suckling kits tightly. “I love you.” Her eyes met his and became concerned. “Is something wrong?”
“Just a bellyache.” Wolfclaw stretched uncomfortably.
“I can call Spottednose back in here.” Silverstem offered.
“Don’t bother him now,” Wolfclaw hurriedly said. “I’ll talk to him tomorrow if it continues.”
“Promise?”
“I promise.”
Briarwhisper gave up licking Stonefrost’s ears and instead rubbed them with her paw. “Hey.” Stonefrost ducked, protesting this rough cleaning.
“How did you get your ears muddy?” Briarwhisper pulled his head closer to her. “It’s gross.”
“I’ve been working hard.” Stonefrost shook his head and bits of dried mud fell to the ground. He gently pushed her away. “It’s fine.” Briarwhisper rolled her eyes but gave up cleaning. “What do you think of the new cats?” Stonefrost brought her attention to the three newcomers all sharing a thrush.
“They’re alright.” Briarwhisper said. “You can tell Wind still needs time to adjust, but they’re good hunters.”
Nightpelt slowly rolled over to face the couple. “Hopefully if he stays, he’ll learn to lower his voice.” He grumpily said. Mallardwing and Flameleap murmured in agreement.
“Will all available cats join me underneath the Ceremony Tree?” Morningstar called. The TwistedClan cats not currently on patrols turned their attention to the front of the camp where the leader was standing with her kits to the side.
“Are we going to be made apprentices now?” Cinderkit tried to whisper but was still very loud.
“Not yet.” Morningstar nudged her towards Ruststripe as the Clan chuckled. She turned to the three cats on her other side: Minnow, Gray, and Wind. “Have you made your decisions?” They all nodded. “Good. We shall have an informal warrior ceremony now. Minnow, are you prepared to defend TwistedClan with your life?”
“I am.” Minnow said.
“Then you shall be known as Minnowflash.” Morningstar said. “Gray, are you prepared to defend TwistedClan with your life?”
“I am.” Gray said.
“Then you shall be known as Graybelly.” Morningstar said. “Wind, are you prepared to defend TwistedClan with your life?”
“I am.” Wind said after slightly hesitating.
“Then you shall be known as Windcall.” Morningstar said. “Welcome to TwistedClan.”
Sagefeather stumbled to the medicine cat den in the middle of the night. She shook the low branches of the bush to awake on of the medicine cats. Galalight was the one to stick her head out, still blinking away sleep. “Something the matter?” She asked groggily.
“Bellyache.” Sagefeather groaned.
Galalight nodded. “Did you happen to eat anything Wolfclaw did?”
“Shared a vole earlier.”
“I’ll make a nest for you. He’s already in here.”
Spottednose tiptoed out of the den, trying his best not to disturb the ill cats. They had finally settled into an uneasy sleep. “Thanks for getting them settled in.” Spottednose said as Galalight yawned. She tossed him a bite of squirrel.
“Not a problem.” She shrugged. “Glad it’s just a bellyache.”
“Me too,” Spottednose chewed thoughtfully. He didn’t sound too sure.
“What? You think it’s like colic or something?”
“I’m not sure. I’m just on edge with…” Spottednose lowered his voice. “…the prophecy.”
“I won’t deny you’re not on edge.” Galalight muttered.
Spottednose sighed. “We’ll have to keep an eye on them closer this time.” His thoughts trailed back to Cloudpaw, and he felt a pang of guilt. He had cleared her for training and look how that went. “Perhaps we should discuss the prophecy with Wolfclaw when he recovers.”
“Will Morningstar be up for that?”
“I’m not sure.” Spottednose said. “I’m not even sure that’s the best option either, but the deputy deserves to know.”
“I know you’ve been sent to babysit me.” Marsh flicked his bushy tail in slight annoyance. “If I want to go on a hike, I should be able to go on a hike in peace.”
“Then pretend I’m not here.” Neritefang rolled her eyes. “I am just following orders.”
“Why?” Marsh asked. “Wolfclaw has a bellyache. Morningstar is taking care of kits. Why does any cat have a right to tell you what to do and when to do it?”
“She’s our leader, and he is our deputy.” Neritefang said. “I do what is asked to be a good warrior.”
“Why?” Marsh had started to sound like a kit stuck in the “questioning everything” phase.
“Why not?” Neritefang snapped. “TwistedClan has given me a good life, and I’m very grateful for them. No one is forcing you to stay with us.”
Marsh walked silently for a good half mile before he spoke again. “I’ve nev’r a place to call my home.” Neritefang narrowed her eyes, wondering where this was heading. “I’m glad y’all found a safe haven in this twisted forest.”
“I suppose.”
“Do ya have family?”
“Nope. Don’t even remember my mother or any of my littermates.” Neritefang said.
“So TwistedClan is yer family?”
“I guess. More family than GraveClan ever was.”
“I used to have a family myself. They got crushed to death by rocks.”
“Sorry to hear that.”
“Don’t be. You nev’r knew ‘em.” Marsh said. “It’s good to move ‘round, though. A cat wasn’t meant to be stuck in one place or get attached.”
“Hm.”
“Ya don’t think so?”
“I’ve always wanted a little family of my own but just never got the opportunity.”
“Trust me, that’s a blessin’. Relationships only lead to heartbreak.”
Petalpaw followed Starlingsky out to a quiet place of the forest. The new mentors had decided to split up to have one-on-one sessions. She was excited to be Starlingsky’s apprentice since she was on the younger side and seemed enthusiastic enough. “Sunchaser already showed us how to properly crouch!” Petalpaw swished her tail and slunk into a pretty good hunting crouch.
“Try to move quieter.” Starlingsky suggested. “Stepping on twigs and leaves will alert the prey, and we’ll go hungry.”
“What if there’s too many leaves?”
“Check if the leaves you’re about to step on are flat or not. If you have to crunch it down, you’ll make more noise than stepping on an already flattened leaf.” Starlingsky gathered up some leaf piles. “Let’s practice on these.”
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Post by spasticjazzhands on Sept 30, 2019 17:12:43 GMT -8
THE DREAM ( 031 ) LAST MOON Neritefang, Minnowflash, and Starlingsky were unsuccessfully trying to make small talk on their border patrol. Neritefang had no use for any trivial conversation, and Starlingsky was having to shake off Minnowflash’s blatant attempts of flirting. “Shush!” Neritefang hissed. “Someone’s here.” Starlingsky was very grateful for the distraction.
“A new member?”
“Perhaps.”
“Hey!”
The molly spun around. “W-who’s there?”
“Oh, she’s pretty too. Although, not as pretty as you.” Minnowflash winked at Starlingsky.
“Nope. She’s prettier. Go after her.” Starlingsky said grumpily.
“Don’t worry, we’re friendly enough.” Neritefang assured.
“I-I’m just l-lost.” The molly said. “Really lost.”
“Where are you from?” Neritefang pressed.
“I came from a house.”
“You’re a kittypet?”
“I don’t know what that means, but I wandered too far, and now I can’t find my way back home.”
“Come with us, then. You can stay in TwistedClan until we figure out how to help you.”
“Did you figure out names yet?” Galalight interrupted Silverstem and Wolfclaw’s conversation.
“I think so.” Silverstem nudged the first kit. “This little one will be Rabbitkit.”
“His ears are pretty big.” Galalight chuckled.
“And Deerkit, Squirrelkit, Mousekit, and Shrewkit.” Silverstem finished.
“And they’re all so beautiful.” Wolfclaw winced.
“Everything okay?” Galalight asked.
“Fine.”
Jewel stepped into the place the strange cats called TwistedClan with widened eyes. There were a lot more cats here than she first expected. The oldest cat that discovered her retrieved a smaller calico that introduced herself as their “leader”. However, she did spot a run-down nature house towards the back. “That’s like the place I live!” She exclaimed. The other cats only seemed amused. “Do you live with Protectors as well?”
“Protectors?”
“They leave out food and brush your fur.” Jewel explained. “They build those houses for us to live in!”
Morningstar scoffed. “We don’t depend on Twolegs for their help. If you want to run back to them, be our guest.”
“I don’t know how to get back.” Jewel’s head and tail drooped. “I tried to but now I’m here.”
“I will allow you to stay with us until you decide to leave or stay, only if you pull your weight hunting.” Morningstar said.
Jewel perked up. “I’m great at hunting! Mice don’t hear me coming.” Starlingsky smirked in disbelief. “Really, I am!” Jewel protested. “I can prove it.”
Morningstar’s whiskers twitched. “Don’t worry, you will.”
Morningstar took a deep breath. This warrior ceremony is going to be long, she thought. “Let all cats able to climb a tree gather here below!” She didn’t need to call TwistedClan’s attention to her as most cats were already milling about in the clearing, but it was now tradition. “Now, we have quite a bit to go over.” She started and got a few chuckles. “Jewel, you’re first.” Jewel had already been briefed on what was expected of her at this ceremony. Since she was joining as an adult warrior, she was allowed to stay on the ground to receive her warrior name. She stood up tall while trying to not let her legs shake from nervousness. “Do you promise to protect the Clan with your life?”
“I do.” Jewel said.
“Then you shall be called Quietstep.” Morningstar was pleased that Quietstep seemed to like her new name as she puffed out her chest. She hoped a warrior name allowed her to be seen as just another new member as any loner. She had already proved to be a worthy hunter, even if she still got turned around in her new territory. “Thunderpaw, please join me.” She waited for the tom to climb onto the same branch. “Thunderpaw, do you promise to uphold TwistedClan’s traditions and to protect the Clan with your life?” Morningstar asked.
“I do.” Thunderpaw said.
“Then, I give you your warrior name, Thundercry. Remember that your opinions matter to the clan and to use your voice.” Morningstar rested her muzzle on Thundercry’s forehead. He leaped down to the ground and Willowpaw took his place. “Willowpaw, do you promise to uphold TwistedClan’s traditions and to protect the Clan with your life?”
“I do.” Willowpaw said.
“Then, I give you your warrior name, Willowbranch. Remember to always remain steady in your decisions.” Morningstar rested her muzzle on Willowbranch’s forehead, and Goosepaw joined them. “Goosepaw, do you promise to uphold TwistedClan’s traditions and to protect the Clan with your life?” Morningstar said.
“I do.” Goosepaw said.
“Then, I give you your warrior name, Goosedawn. Remember to always be caring, even to those who don’t deserve it.” Morningstar rested her muzzle on Goosedawn’s forehead. “Maplepaw,” The apprentice joined her. “do you promise to uphold TwistedClan’s traditions and to protect the Clan with your life?”
“I do.” Maplepaw said.
“Then, I give you your warrior name, Maplebreeze. Remember to enjoy the path of life you take.” Morningstar rested her muzzle on Maplebreeze’s forehead. “And lastly, Stormpaw. Do you promise to uphold TwistedClan’s traditions and to protect the Clan with your life?”
“I do.” Stormpaw said.
“Then, I give you your warrior name, Stormheart. Remember to keep your family in your heart at all times.” Morningstar rested her muzzle on Stormheart’s forehead while TwistedClan cheered. Morningstar followed Stormheart down from the tree. All five of the siblings gathered around a purring Birchwhisker. “Congratulations.” Morningstar said. “I know Stormstrike and Cloudpaw are proud of you all.”
PRESENT Spottednose tossed and turned in his nest. He had made sure to dig up the softest feathers he could find, but his bones still weren’t happy with the result. He always tried to not diagnose himself, but thoughts of arthritis setting in still floated around in his mind. Sitting up with a final grunt, he looked to the moon. Thankfully, it was on its way back to the horizon, so Spottednose gave up the idea of falling back asleep and stretched. On the way out, he swung by the two ill cats. Wolfclaw and Sagefeather were still curled up in the medicine den complaining of body pains that herbs did not soothe. While Spottednose was growing more worried every day, he figured at some point they would discover a proper treatment. He approached Sagefeather first. She was uneasily resting, her tail twitching in her sleep but didn’t wake up when he rested his paw on her flank. Now he turned to Wolfclaw and put his paw on his chest. Spottednose pressed harder. Yes, there it was. His breathing was very shallow, barely raising his chest. Spottednose now prodded Wolfclaw with his claws. “Come on, wake up.” He muttered in his ear. The deputy stirred but didn’t awake. “Galalight!” He dashed back to claw his apprentice to her feet. He grabbed lamb’s ear and juniper berries from the store, but by the time he reached Wolfclaw once more, his breathing had ceased. By now, Galalight was wide awake from adrenaline and checking Sagefeather. Spottednose started chest compressions to no avail. Wolfclaw had passed and by sunrise Sagefeather had followed him to StarClan.
Galalight was sent to fetch Morningstar at the crack of dawn. The medicine cats didn’t want to announce a warrior and the deputy had died overnight until they had discussed all the options with the leader.
“Well, what are we going to do? Lie and say they went on a walk and just haven’t come back yet?” Morningstar said exasperated.
“Of course not.” Spottednose snapped. “Just we need to figure out how to tell the clan. We can’t have a Stormstrike and Gingerblaze panic again, can we?”
“Why did they die? That’s where we need to start.” There was an uncomfortable silence. “What good are medicine cats if they can’t tell you what the hell is happening!?”
“We’re trying, but we haven’t seen anything like this before! Herbs don’t help. I wish this was just a cough, but it’s not!” Spottednose argued. “I’m supposed to connect the recent deaths to one source, but no one had the same symptoms. Wolfclaw and Sagefeather had a gut ache. That might be all we can attribute this to at this time.”
Morningstar rolled her eyes. “Fine. That is what we tell the clan. And you will tell Silverstem. Not Galalight, you Spottednose.”
“Fair.” Spottednose relented. “But the new deputy needs to be aware of the prophecy.”
Morningstar closed her eyes and sighed. “I will need to appoint one first.” Galalight opened her mouth. “Yes, I will announce it by dusk today.” She closed her mouth. “Let’s go break the news.” The sun was now peeking out from behind the trees, and cats were already stirring.
“Any news on patrols yet today?” Stormheart called cheerily. “Something wrong?” He must have seen the worry on his old mentor’s face.
“He’s dead.” Morningstar said. “Sagefeather too. Let Spottednose tell Silverstem before anyone else.” Stormheart froze shocked and allowed the medicine cat to squeeze past him to break the news to the queen. “I’ll assign patrols for the day. Galalight, can you tell Rushingflame?”
Silverstem buried her head into the small bodies of her kits. “Why?” She whimpered. “I was finally happy again, Birchwhisker.” The older warrior laid beside the grieving queen, called to help after she was told the news.
“I don’t know. Life is never fair.” Birchwhisker licked Silverstem’s head.
“This isn’t unfair, this is cruel.” Silverstem said.
“You’re strong,” Birchwhisker assured. “You’ll get through this.”
“Hey, are you okay?” Quietstep’s soft voice drifted close to Rushingflame’s face. “Were you close to Wolfclaw or Sagefeather?”
“She was my mother.” Rushingflame choked out. “I was her only kit.”
“I’m sorry.” Quietstep wrapped her tail around her shoulders. “I can’t even image losing a mother.”
“You didn’t know your mother?” Rushingflame asked.
“No. Protectors separate us from our litters very young, so I don’t remember very much about my family.” She noticed the shocked look on the warrior’s face. “I didn’t mind, I never knew anything different.”
“How’s it going?” Flameleap joined their duo. “Doing alright?”
“I guess.” Rushingflame shrugged. “I just can’t believe she’s gone.”
“If you need anything, let us know.” Flameleap added. “Anyone.”
“Thanks.” Rushingflame weakly smiled. “I appreciate it.”
“My offer still stands.” Morningstar said to Birchwhisker. “Your kits are grown. What do you think?”
“I’m getting too old.” Birchwhisker said. “And I’m not fit for the job. I’m a good warrior, and that’s where I want to be at this moment.”
“If you’re too old, I’m ancient.” Morningstar smiled. “But I respect your decision, and while I think you would be a fine deputy, you’ll always stay a great warrior, friend, and advisor.”
“Thank you,” Birchwhisker said.
Morningstar got to her feet and started towards the fresh-kill pile but paused. “What would you think about Sunchaser?”
Birchwhisker thought for a second. “He would be great.” She decided.
“Good.”
Minnowflash laid next to Graybelly, Willowbranch, and Goosedawn. “So, who’s going to be the next deputy?” He asked. Graybelly looked at the two native TwistedClan warriors.
“Do you think it’ll be Ruststripe?” Goosedawn said. “I wouldn’t be surprised if he gets it.”
“What about Birchwhisker?” Willowbranch asked. “She was in the running last time, but she was still in the nursery with us? Honeytail, Nightpelt, over here!” The two toms wandered over. “Deputy: Birchwhisker or Ruststripe?”
“Can she pick her mate for deputy?” Honeytail wondered.
“I don’t think there’s any rule against it.” Nightpelt said. “Just that they are appointed before midnight.”
“And she didn’t even follow that last time.” Willowbranch said.
“Oh, did anything bad happen then?” Graybelly said.
“Well, he’s dead now.” Nightpelt said. “That shouldn’t count as a good thing.”
“Would she even announce another tonight?” Windcall surprised the growing group of gossipers.
“She said she would just assign patrols for the day. That must mean a deputy will be appointed tonight.” Stormheart also chimed in. “Have we thought about Neritefang?”
“Too old.” Willowbranch shook her head. “She should be retiring in a few moons anyway.”
“I guess we’ll just have to wait and see, yes?” Neritefang hissed and swiped at Willowbranch’s ears.
“Eep!”
“Hey.” Flameleap caught Nightpelt before they got too far in their day’s patrol. “Can we talk for a second?”
“Make it quick.” Nightpelt flicked an ear back. “I want a big dinner tonight.”
“I wanted to ask if you wanted to watch the sunset by the creek tonight.” Flameleap said. “With me.”
“I don’t know, I want to be here for the deputy announcement.”
“Right, right.” Flameleap stammered. “I forgot about that.”
“Tomorrow?”
“Sounds like a plan.”
Rainsong sat behind her kits, looking up at the Ceremony Tree with Sunchaser sitting beside her. The entire Clan was gathered to hear Morningstar’s announcement and then to hold the vigil for the two dead warriors. She had been sitting in the tree for hours in silence. The sun was starting to creep below the tree line, and TwistedClan was getting restless. Petalpaw and Dovepaw were teaching Tigerkit how to stalk and Patchpaw was telling training stories to Riverkit and Cinderkit.
“TwistedClan, may I have your attention?” Morningstar was now standing tall, her calico coat golden in the setting sun. “I say these words before StarClan, so that the spirits of our warrior ancestors may hear and approve my choice. The new deputy of TwistedClan is Sunchaser.” She said. Rainsong glanced shocked to Sunchaser, who looked just as surprised as everyone else. He stood up quickly and dipped his head in acknowledgement. Rounds of cheering for Sunchaser started up, and Morningstar jumped from the tree to approach her new deputy. “Sorry, I didn’t discuss this with you beforehand.” She said in a low voice. “I thought a younger cat would bring new energy to the Clan.”
“Thank you for choosing me.” Sunchaser said. “I won’t let you or TwistedClan down.”
Galalight gratefully slipped into a deep sleep after the stressful day. Soon however, she found herself in the forest of StarClan. She was surprised when she seemed to be alone. “Welcome, Galalight.” A small voice came from behind her. “Do you remember me?”
She spun and was met with the small figure of Pebblepaw. “Of course.” She smiled. “I’d never forget you, Pebblepaw.”
“You were Galapaw when I was in TwistedClan.”
“A lot of time has passed.” Galalight said. “I’m sorry you didn’t make it. You fought like a warrior.”
“I was quite angry at first, but it’s nice here.” Pebblepaw shrugged. “I do miss Silverstem, though.”
Galalight didn’t want to be rude, but she did want to direct this conversation to something perhaps helpful to TwistedClan. “I haven’t dreamt of you yet.” She started. “I actually haven’t had a specific StarClan dream outside of the Moonpool.”
“Signs are rather confusing to us as well.” Pebblepaw said. “I don’t necessarily understand everything, but we are trying to help.”
“Anything particular tonight?” Galalight asked.
“Just that it’s no one’s fault. This sickness, if you will, it races across lands not bothering to stop for any border markings. Don’t blame yourselves for events out of your control. Even StarClan does not have control on most things. The forces of nature will always prevail.” Pebblepaw took a deep breath, or whatever dead cats do when they are tired of speaking.
“I understand.” Galalight flicked her tail back and forth thinking. “Thank you for the insight, Pebblepaw. I’ll tell Silverstem that you’re doing well.”
“And say hello to her new kits.” He said excitedly. “I’m glad she’s moved on.”
“She’s trying at least.” Galalight said. “Is Wolfclaw coming too?”
“He’s working hard to interpret the stars. That’s why they sent me tonight. Just a messenger of larger things.” Pebblepaw paused. “But it’s nearly sunrise. Good dreams, Galalight.”
Galalight blinked open her eyes. Sure enough, the sun was starting to bleed golden rays into the dawn sky. She rolled over to shake Spottednose awake. “Get up!” She hissed.
“Hmpf.” Spottednose huffed. “Is someone dying?”
“No.”
“Then let me sleep!”
Galalight rolled her eyes at the cranky old cat. She could tell him after he had eaten breakfast; he would be in a better mood then.
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Post by spasticjazzhands on Sept 30, 2019 17:19:09 GMT -8
THE HINTS OF LOVE ( 032 ) LAST MOON Finchflight and Thistlefur had travelled so far from their original home by the sea that their pads were starting to peel and bleed. Every day, they walked slower and less distance. The tom didn’t know how much more he could travel, but his companion seemed determined to get as far away from WaveClan as possible. Now, they were in a dense forest with leaves crunching all around them. Thistlefur tiredly looked to the sky. Through the branches and leaves, he saw night setting in. “Before it gets too dark, do you want to find a place to rest?” Thistlefur stopped, hoping to get a good night’s rest.
“I suppose,” The molly said. Gratefully, Thistlefur sank into a pile of leaves with a grunt. Finchflight curled up beside him as the air was starting to become chilly and the warmth of a buddy helped rid the cold. Thistlefur laid awake for a while, and Finchflight snored away beside him when he heard the sound of pawsteps crunching across the forest floor. Thistlefur’s head shot up, not stirring Finchflight.
“Anyone there?” He whispered. The pawsteps paused. “I hear you.” His fur was starting to stand up. “Hello?”
“I’m not a threat.” A soft voice drifted from the right.
Thistlefur rose into a crouch. “We’re not either.” He whispered. “Finchflight is even asleep.” A small figure stepped into the moonlight. It was a young molly, beautiful long-haired. “Are you alone?” She nodded. “You can sleep by us if you want.” She padded over.
“My name is Tally.” She said and curled up next to him. “Good night.”
Thistlefur was surprised at how trusting she was. They had known each other for about twenty seconds, and she was already fast asleep. He only wished he could slip into his dreams that quickly.
Rushingflame headed her border patrol with pride. Sure, it was only five other young warriors, but Sunchaser had still put her in charge. She soon discovered that Thundercry and Honeytail together make the most noise as possible, either pouncing into leaf piles or loudly arguing about the best fighting move. Goosedawn and Stormheart were in the back, teasing Maplebreeze of her obvious crush being obnoxious. “Guys, could you not let the entire forest know where we are?” She finally snapped back.
“Oooh,” Stormheart murmured. “Somebody’s uptight!” Rushingflame just rolled her eyes, but they did quiet down significantly.
“Do you hear that?” Maplebreeze asked suddenly, ears pricked forward.
“I want to hear nothing.” Rushingflame muttered.
“No, seriously I hear something too.” Goosedawn said.
Now Rushingflame was paying attention. “Another fox perhaps? I don’t smell anything.”
“Through there!” Honeytail pointed. “Cats!”
“Excuse us!” Rushingflame trotted forward. “Anything we can help with?” The group of three cats looked startled to see a bigger group heading towards them.
“Just wandering.” The older molly said. “Leaving WaveClan in search for a new home.”
“WaveClan?” Stormheart said. “Haven’t heard of it.”
“TwistedClan could become your new home.” Rushingflame suggested. Her first border patrol was very successful; it wasn’t everyday someone found two new warriors and an apprentice.
“Sunchaser, a word?” Morningstar called from the camp’s entrance. “Let’s make it quick, the kits and Ruststripe are getting restless.” Sunchaser gave one last nuzzle to Rainsong. As he pushed the branches out of the way, he saw Spottednose and Galalight waiting for him as well. The four went to the Burial Site to have their private conversation.
“What is this about?” Sunchaser asked unsure. “Have I already done something wrong?”
“It is us that have done the wrong thing.” Morningstar started. “We kept something important from Wolfclaw, and they,” she gestured to the medicine cats. “talked some sense in me.”
This made Sunchaser nervous. “Details later. What is it?”
“There is a prophecy.” Galalight said. “The raging foam will spread like fire and boil blood with fear.”
“What does that mean?” Sunchaser asked.
“Your guess is as good as ours.” Spottednose shrugged. “But the recent deaths must be connected somehow.”
“What can we do?”
“Nothing for now.” Morningstar said. “Just keep your eyes and ears open.”
“Does Ruststripe know?”
Morningstar paused. “No.”
PRESENT Neritefang led another hunting patrol through the forest. While she had been insisting she was still fit for warrior duties, she could feel every bone and muscle protesting full extension. “All right up there?” Finchflight, a new addition, called out.
“Fine.” Neritefang hissed back.
“Are you sure?” Ruststripe asked quietly over his shoulder.
“Just sore.” Neritefang snapped back. “And if you say a word, you will regret it.”
The other warrior shrugged. “As long as you say it’s fine.” But he mentally noted to suggest to Sunchaser to assign her a lighter load of patrols.
Minnowflash watched Quietstep intently. Even though she had been a kittypet, she had been an asset to the Clan. She always came home with a bite of prey and had started to keep up with the climbing of TwistedClan cats. Her expressions, however, were different from a native forest cat. Every emotion flashed on her face, so it was extremely easy to tell what she was thinking. And her expressions were…softer somehow. Excitement made her beautiful as she came to life. Sorrow didn’t make her look helpless, it made her look silent but determined. Annoyance showed in her eyes, but she never let it pass them keeping her attitude positive. Quietstep and Graybelly, also a wonderful molly and travelling companion, were sharing a squirrel, and they were laughing lightly. “Sunchaser sent me to tell you that you’re heading a patrol today.” Stormheart jolted Minnowflash back to reality.
“Okay.” Minnowflash debated going over to the two mollies but decided not to right now. He didn’t want Graybelly there; if Quietstep wasn’t vibing with him, Graybelly could be his next target.
“You checking them out?” Stormheart said quieter, raising one eyebrow.
“Was it that obvious?”
“A bit.” Stormheart lightly nudged him. “Quietstep and I watched the stars last night. Very romantic. Are you and Graybelly a thing?”
Minnowflash hid his annoyance. He hadn’t known Stormheart was already moving in on the kittypet. “No, we just came from the same Clan.” He frowned. Stormheart winked and walked over to the two mollies. Minnowflash wished he would have interrupted their lunch. Now, Minnowflash only got to watch as Stormheart cozied up to Quietstep and even grabbed a bite of squirrel. Scoffing, he turned to corral the remainder of his patrol. At least now I don’t have to waste my time talking to Quietstep if Stormheart is already sniffing after her, Minnowflash thought. And while grooming Graybelly later and having a nice evening chat, Minnowflash told himself that again. But he couldn’t help glancing at a certain kittypet across the way.
Softpaw followed the three other apprentices down to the creek. Her long fur billowed out behind her, and she observed the other cats’ coats. Everyone else had short coats that dried quickly and didn’t weigh them down in the water. “Don’t worry.” Valleyrunner seemed to read her thoughts. “I’ll go easy on you for your first training session.”
“Don’t go easy on me, just don’t let me drown.” Softpaw said.
“That’s always a good goal.”
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Post by spasticjazzhands on Sept 30, 2019 17:24:33 GMT -8
THE BADGER ( 033 ) LAST MOON “You can do it, Mallardwing!” Galalight pushed another soaked moss ball towards the straining queen. “Almost there.” Crowtalon and Valleyrunner paced nervously in the nursery opening. Mallardwing had been in labor for over half a day, and they were getting anxious to meet their kits. Mallardwing groaned loudly as the first kit entered the world.
“Good,” Spottednose murmured while pressing on her belly. “A couple more to go.” Soon two more kits were born, and Crowtalon and Valleyrunner had two daughters and one son.
“What are you going to name them?” Galalight ushered Crowtalon and Valleyrunner inside the nursery.
Valleyrunner gently licked the black and white molly kit. “Raven. She looks just like you, Crowtalon.”
“Ravenkit.” Galalight corrected. She saw the warrior’s annoyance with the proper kit name, but he didn’t argue further.
“The brown tom can be Mountainkit.” Crowtalon said.
“And the last molly?”
“Mallardwing? Do you want to name her?” Crowtalon asked. Mallardwing had her eyes closed, still catching her breath.
“Are you sure?” She panted.
“You played a part in this too.” Valleyrunner said. “You can name her.”
“She’s black and white too.” Mallardwing said softly. “Do you like the name Twilightkit?”
“It’s wonderful. Thank you.”
Starlingsky pulled Petalpaw out from under the current of the water once more. She was coughing and snorting trying to get water out of her nose and mouth. “It’s just like running, just in the water.” Starlingsky pushed her apprentice to the shore where she stood shaking in the chilled air. Petalpaw watched her siblings and Softpaw clumsily paddle in the creek. “Let’s try again.”
“I can’t stay afloat,” Petalpaw pouted. “I can’t do it.”
“Try once more and we can always come back again after bare-leaf.” Starlingsky said. “It will help you practice patience. I’ve had firsthand experience with that.” Petalpaw took hesitant steps back in the creek, ungracefully sinking under the water once more. Starlingsky grabbed her scruff and plopped her back on the edge. She got out herself and shook water from her fur. “That was a good enough try for now. Don’t be too discouraged.”
PRESENT “Tigerkit, it is time for you to be apprenticed. From this day on, you will be known as Tigerpaw, and your mentor will be Thistlefur.” Morningstar paused, allowing for Thistlefur and Tigerpaw to touch noses. “Cinderkit, it is time for you to be apprenticed. From this day on, you will be known as Cinderpaw, and your mentor will be Nightpelt.” Morningstar smiled as Cinderpaw got too excited and smashed her nose to Nightpelt’s. He wasn’t amused. “Riverkit, it is time for you to be apprenticed. From this day on, you will be known as Riverpaw, and your mentor will be Finchflight.” TwistedClan’s joyful yowls filled the air.
“Ha, I got Nightpelt!” Cinderpaw bragged to her littermates.
“That’s not fair. Finchflight is so old.” Riverpaw hissed quietly.
Flameleap overheard and winked to Nightpelt. “You’re popular.” He said.
“Apparently.” Nightpelt seemed uninterested. “Though, Thistlefur is much friendlier and more energetic.”
“But you have that mysterious factor.” Flameleap joked. “And a troubled past.”
“My past isn’t troubled.” Nightpelt grumbled. Flameleap laughed and watched the new apprentices scurry off. “Though training an apprentice will certainly be interesting.”
“I have to admit, I’m a bit jealous.” Flameleap said. “Especially Cinderpaw. She has so much enthusiasm already.”
“Be my guest to take her out.” Nightpelt said. “It’ll be nice to have a friend available to help.”
Flameleap’s heart sunk. “Friend….”
“Are we not friends?” Nightpelt looked at him quizzically. “I enjoy hanging out with you.”
“Best friends.” Flameleap smiled weakly. Did I just get friendzoned?
Graybelly gave a toothy grin to Minnowflash. She took a large bite of the vole he had brought for her. The flirty tom had been paying a lot of attention to her lately, and she was starting to enjoy it. While his gaze lingered on other mollies, she still thought he looked at her a bit differently. “How was your border patrol today?” She asked.
“Very quiet.” Minnowflash said. “It seemed a little strange and foreboding. The leaves crunching seemed very loud in the silence.” He was distracted by Quietstep’s laugh from across the camp. Stormheart had swept leaves over her back, and she was shaking them from her pelt.
“Hey,” Graybelly poked him to get his attention. “Do you want to go someplace quieter then? We could see if the forest is still quiet.” She had to sharply poke him once more to get a disgruntled answer.
“You can go, I think I’ll just stay in camp tonight.” Minnowflash avoided her gaze.
“C’mon, it’ll be fun.” Graybelly persuaded. “Just you and me, away from distractions.”
Minnowflash finished what was left of her vole in two bites and licked his lips. Graybelly butted his shoulder. Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed Stormheart and Quietstep slip behind the cabin and sighed. “Sure,” He stretched. “I can’t believe I almost passed up an opportunity to be alone with such a pretty molly.” Graybelly blushed and intertwined his tail with hers.
“I’m glad I talked some sense into you.” She chuckled.
“I’m glad too.” He licked her ears once. “I won’t throw my chance away this time.”
Spottednose received a sharp kick to his ribs and jolted awake. Galalight had rolled out of her own nest and was twitching on the dirt. He pinned her legs down until she had calmed once more, however, her sleep still seemed disturbed as her ears were still pinned back and her lips curled in a slight snarl. Before Spottednose could come to a decision whether to wake his apprentice up or not, she gave one final lunge and threw herself clear of his grasp. She sat panting and shaking. “What was that?” Spottednose asked sharply.
“Something’s not right in this forest.” Galalight looked a million moons older than her age. “And we are in the crossfire.”
Morningstar surveyed the quiet camp. It was an uneventful morning as all of the daily patrols were sent out already, leaving few cats behind. Silverstem had taken her five kits out to play with the fallen leaves with Briarwhisper close behind to help supervise. Maplebreeze and Goosedawn were chatting nearby, and Toadsplash was finishing up a mouse. It was Morningstar’s first moon back as full-time leader. She thought she would enjoy her complete freedom, but there were now three little parts of her that would always be exploring the world without her. “Morningstar,” Galalight startled her. The medicine cat looked ragged and dazed.
“What happened?” Morningstar leapt to her feet. What could possibly happen now?
“Where are all the cats?” Galalight’s eyes were widened. “Where are they?”
“Patrols.” Morningstar craned her neck trying to catch Spottednose’s attention. His apprentice was having a mental breakdown apparently, but he was pacing by the camp’s entrance not paying attention to them. “What is wrong?”
“Bring them back!” Galalight insisted. “We need cats at camp.”
“Silverstem, could you herd your litter back into the cabin?” Morningstar pushed past Galalight. Galalight was too stressed to say anything worthwhile at the moment, but Morningstar got the just from her panic. Prepare for….
“Badgers!” Spottednose yowled. Briarwhisper shoved Silverstem’s litter out of the way and stood with her fur fluffed. Morningstar took one look at Galalight, still slightly swaying, and pushed her back a few steps. Spottednose scrambled backwards as he was not equipped to fend off badgers by himself. Toadsplash rushed to his aid as now the big lumbering steps of the badgers could be heard clearly.
“Meet them outside the entrance!” Morningstar ordered. “Don’t let them come in the clearing!”
Toadsplash was now head of the sprinting cats. A dark stout muzzle followed by sloping shoulders crashed through the brush, and Toadsplash met it with his claws. A low grumble erupted from its throat, beady eyes trying to focus on its attacker. The other badger was met with an angry Goosedawn and Maplebreeze. It didn’t seem to be very coordinated, shaking its big head in annoyance. The two badgers didn’t even react to the claws and fangs the TwistedClan cats threw at them. Morningstar reared on her back legs, careful of her twisted paw, and tried to strike one’s eyes while Toadsplash clawed at its ears. The badger stumbled backwards, catching Goosedawn under its thick legs crushing him without even a thought. Maplebreeze let out a shocked cry as her brother did not get back on his feet. Briarwhisper grabbed his scruff to save him from being crushed anymore. The badger whipped around, lunging at the two cats. Briarwhisper sustained a bite out of her shoulder but was successful in getting Goosedawn out of the way. Toadsplash got its attention once more by aiming for its neck, making a good-sized cut that started trickling blood. The badger latched onto him, and a loud snap was heard. When Morningstar jumped onto its back and raked her claws down its pelt until it let Toadsplash go, the warrior remained limp. Morningstar reached around to the front of the badger’s head and scratched at its eyes until it bucked her off. The blinded badger stumbled around, and Maplebreeze bit at its heels, driving it away from camp. The other badger swiped at the struggling leader on the ground, winded and sore, creating a gash across her chest and belly. Maplebreeze let out another shriek. Morningstar dragged herself out of the direct path of the badger but did not attempt to rise. Briarwhisper limped to Maplebreeze’s side, still willing to fight, but Sunchaser just returned with his hunting patrol. He, Neritefang, Finchflight, Claystream, Ruststripe, and Birchwhisker made quick work at driving away the remaining badger. Ruststripe and Birchwhisker followed the trail of blood to finish off the other.
“He’s dead!” Maplebreeze wailed, now able to mourn her fallen brother. Claystream wordlessly crouched beside her dead mate.
“Morningstar?” Sunchaser rested his paw lightly on her chest as Spottednose rushed over with some herbs. “She’s not breathing.”
Spottednose reaffirmed that Morningstar was in fact not breathing and nodded. “That cut was too deep anyway. Stay with her, and I’ll focus on Briarwhisper.” He left to help Briarwhisper back into camp. Sunchaser laid down resting his head on Morningstar’s flank. As the other warriors slowly carried the fallen warriors to the middle of camp for a vigil, Sunchaser waited for Morningstar to come back to the forest once more. Birchwhisker and Ruststripe trotted back, winded from their mission.
“One is dead and the other will soon be dead.” Birchwhisker reported. “Did Morningstar lose another life?”
Sunchaser shifted to let Ruststripe take his position. “Unfortunately, yes.”
“How many does she have left?” Birchwhisker softly asked.
“Five.” Ruststripe was the one to reply. “Only five left.”
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Post by spasticjazzhands on Sept 30, 2019 17:44:00 GMT -8
THE INCIDENT ( 034 ) LAST MOON Minnowflash watched Quietstep and Graybelly exit the camp for their hunting patrol and gathered up his own hunting patrol. He was disappointed he didn’t get to go with his molly targets, but at least Stormheart was stuck with him as well. However, he soon wished the tom had just stayed in camp as he sauntered up. “Quietstep and I were talking last night, and she had the greatest idea! Why don’t you and Graybelly come with us to stargaze by the creek. I think Quietstep is going to talk to Flameleap and Nightpelt about coming along too, and Honeytail and Maplebreeze are coming for sure.” Stormheart offered.
“I’ll ask Graybelly.” Minnowflash muttered. Graybelly is just as pretty as Quietstep. And more confident. Why did he feel cheated out of something that never happened in the first place? Minnowflash grumpily thought.
“Sweet, we’ll probably go next moon. Nightpelt will take some convincing, and I want to see if Rainsong and Sunchaser want to come along too.” Stormheart happily continued.
“Why do you want them to go?” Minnowflash thought inviting the deputy and his mate would kill any sort of fun mood.
“Don’t you want to know if he has any ideas about all the recent deaths?”
Minnowflash pondered this. “That would be interesting.”
“That’s why I want Nightpelt to come too. Since Sunchaser was his mentor, I bet he would be more likely to talk to him.”
“Hey, chatterboxes!” Honeytail’s voice drifted from the front. Minnowflash’s head snapped up. He didn’t notice with all their planning, they had fallen to the back of the patrol and were now missing out on talking to a strange cat. “Come meet Jay!”
Thus, Jaywhistle was invited into TwistedClan.
Briarwhisper laid with her paws over her head. This position made the badger bite ache, but it was better than letting more sunlight in her eyes. She had a massive headache and the brightness was overwhelming. Spottednose rubbed a poultice on her bite, and she groaned.
“Can I see her?” Stonefrost’s voice was heard near the front of the medicine den. Galalight must have let him past because her mate now was curled up beside her. She buried her head into his fur. “You fought bravely.” He murmured. “I’m glad you’re safe.”
PRESENT The trees had lost most of their leaves already, and it seemed the bark was peeling off along with the leaves. It had been breezier than usual, although that might just be the cats projecting their uneasy feelings onto the forest. The wind did seem to howl louder at night sounding close to screams, making it hard for TwistedClan to sleep peacefully.
You’ll go mad if you stay awake, but are you safe asleep?
Stormheart nuzzled Quietstep. “The stars are especially bright tonight.” He murmured in her ear. “All of StarClan is shining for you.”
“StarClan?” Quietstep asked.
“When we die, we go to StarClan to watch over the other cats.” Stormstrike explained. “My father, brother, and sister are already waiting for me there.”
“How did they die?” Quietstep asked with widened eyes.
“You knew Goosedawn. Cloudpaw got too dehydrated after she got injured.” Stormheart continued. “And my father drowned before we were born. I was named after him; he was Stormstrike.”
“That’s a nice name.” Quietstep sounded a bit alarmed by all the deaths he listed.
“Everyone says he was a great warrior, so I want to be just as good as he was someday. Living in the forest comes with the price of danger, but it makes it all the more exciting.” Stormheart looked closely at her face. “I don’t want to scare you off or anything.”
Quietstep shifted her weight. “I have to admit that that does worry me. Am I really cut out for this?”
“You’re doing great so far, but that’s for you to ultimately decide.” Stormheart let her lean on him, looking around at the other cats gathered by the creek for their stargazing night. He smiled at Minnowflash who kept looking their way, but the other warrior only nodded back, turning back to groom Graybelly.
“Ugh, why are your paws so rough?” Maplebreeze protested as Honeytail kneaded her shoulders. She shook him off.
“They’re just my paws! What are you talking about?” Honeytail inspected them for any rocks or splinters but they were normal.
“They’re just so rough.” Maplebreeze continued and pulled his paws closer for her to inspect them. “See, mine are much softer.” She showed him her paws. “Flameleap, come here.” She waved the tom over. “Show Honeytail your paws.” Confused Flameleap also showed off the bottom of his paws.
Honeytail carefully felt both of them. “Don’t your feet hurt stepping on rocks?”
“Where are you rock-climbing? We live in a forest with soft leaves and dirt.” Flameleap laughed.
“Well, where did you live before here?” Nightpelt appeared next to Flameleap. He was standing close enough that their pelts were brushing, and Flameleap looked very happy. “If you weren’t born in a forest, it would make sense.”
“See those mountains?” Honeytail gestured.
“It’s too dark.” Maplebreeze butted him. “We’re looking at stars not mountains.”
“Well, they’re there, and there’s some really sharp stones up there.” Honeytail said. “Your paws would be a bloody mess after ten steps since they’re so used to being coddled by moss and leaves. Nightpelt, aren’t you supposed to be questioning Sunchaser?”
“I helped you make your point.” Nightpelt narrowed his eyes. “He won’t tell me anything even if he knows something. I don’t have a right to know.”
“It is our right if it is affecting us.” Maplebreeze said. “Two of my littermates are dead, and I would like to know why.”
“Can you at least try?” Flameleap asked softly.
Nightpelt took a deep breath and rolled his eyes. “Whatever.” He huffed but slowly made his way towards the deputy and his mate.
Rainsong was lying next to Sunchaser with eyes half-closed, content in the cool night air. “Are you having fun chaperoning tonight?” She asked Sunchaser.
“I’m having a nice time being with you,” Sunchaser sighed. “Making sure young cats don’t do anything too stupid unfortunately comes with it.”
Rainsong chuckled. “I cherish these moments together. I regret my past mistakes, but I’m happy where I am now.”
“Don’t regret them. Acknowledging them is enough.” Sunchaser murmured in her ear.
“When did you get so old and wise?” Rainsong teased. Sunchaser just shook his head. He himself didn’t even know. “Sunchaser…” He rolled over, looking at her from the ground. “I know everyone already assumes we are mates, but I don’t think we ever officially decided anything amongst ourselves. Would you be willing to be my mate?”
“Of course,” Sunchaser purred. “I’m the luckiest cat in the world.” Rainsong snuggled closer to her now official mate and became slightly annoyed when Nightpelt interrupted the couple. “Are you having a nice night?” Sunchaser felt Rainsong tense up and flicked his tail across her chest, hoping he could shoo Nightpelt away with boring small talk.
“So far, yes.” Nightpelt sat down. “It’s nice to have a break from all of the stress of everything going on.”
“Are patrols finally getting to you?” Sunchaser joked.
“That’s not the stress I mean.” Nightpelt fixed him with a knowing look. Rainsong shifted uncomfortably. She was enjoying this night away from camp, but now Nightpelt was pushing for sensitive information she was sure Sunchaser knew but wasn’t even willing to tell her.
Sunchaser sighed. “Then let’s just enjoy this night, Nightpelt.”
“Even the forest seems stressed.”
“It might be a tough leaf-bare.”
“It’s already a tough leaf-fall.”
“I think Flameleap is waiting for you. Why don’t you move along now?”
Nightpelt flicked his half-tail, a product of a different panic in TwistedClan. It caught Sunchaser’s eye. “Good night, Sunchaser. Rainsong.” He dipped his head and returned to his original posse. Rainsong leaned up against Sunchaser in hopes of him returning to the calm state he was at beforehand.
“Nightpelt is just being Nightpelt.” Rainsong tried to assure him, but she didn’t sound very convincing. “Like you said, it’s just been a tough couple seasons.”
Sunchaser couldn’t look her in the eyes. “Of course.” He muttered. Rainsong snuggled up to him more but more doubt started to blossom in her mind. She knew he was hiding something but didn’t know how to make him tell her.
And would I even want to know the secret to begin with? She thought.
“What did he say?” Maplebreeze leaned in and hissed.
“Nothing important.” Nightpelt ignored her annoyed eye rolls. “But he seemed to be dodging my concerns.”
“Perhaps he was just dodging you.” Honeytail grumpily said.
Flameleap bristled. “I didn’t see you do anything useful.”
Nightpelt only shrugged. “Do what you will with my information. I don’t think we will get anything concrete from him anytime soon.”
Thump. Thump. Thump. Briarwhisper’s aching body was all she could think about. She wanted water. She needed water. She painfully uncurled her body into a sitting position but couldn’t bring herself to move any more. Her eyes narrowed into slits, blinking away a nagging headache. Thump. Thump. Thump. She needed a drink. She hadn’t had any water in moons, she was sure of it. A figure moved out of her focus. It was making noise. “Water?” Briarwhisper croaked. The figure left, she assumed as it was too bright to see clearly, and Briarwhisper staggered to her feet. She was going to get water herself. She could push through the pain. All it took was one step to bring her crashing to the ground; her shoulder harboring the festering badger bite would not support her weight. Thump. Thump. Thump. Noise was again coming from the entrance of her den, her safe spot. What was coming in? What was going to harm her? Something was approaching. Thump. Thump. THWAP. It was attacking! Now something was at her feet. She carefully prodded it with her claw. It was damp. Water! Water! Water! She shakily moved her head closer to the wad of moss holding the sweet, sweet escape from pain. Thump. Thump. Thump. As soon as her tongue touched the water, her throat convulsed, and Briarwhisper threw herself backwards spitting wildly. She heard a protest and footsteps approaching. A heavy paw rested on her good shoulder. To an outside eye, this might have been a comforting action, but Briarwhisper knew she was being subdued. Thump. ThuMP. THUMP. Lunging, she was satisfied when her mouth met a lot of fur, and when she drew back, blood and fur hung from her jaws. Her assaulter jolted back with a grunt. THUMP. THUMP. THUMP. Her body dropped into an unsteady crouch gathering strength for another strike, but she never got a second chance.
Birchwhisker lazily stretched. She wasn’t going to be an elder anytime soon, but she sure wasn’t getting any younger and this chilly air did not help her joints. However, she was very thankful that her occasional aches and pains didn’t compare to Neritefang’s constant stiffness. It didn’t help that the old warrior insisted on being regularly assigned to patrols. She understood where Neritefang was coming from, next moon she would officially retire to the elder den with Marsh and give up her independent lifestyle. Birchwhisker thought if she could convince Spottednose to give her some herbs for aching joints and act like she had been given too much, Neritefang would be more likely to take the extra for herself and spend her last moon somewhat happier. All that flew out of her mind when she turned the corner and the medicine cat den came into view. Something dark was seeping out of the entrance. “Spottednose?” She called out. “Everything alright?” There was no reply. She padded closer. “Spottednose?” The branches shook as Spottednose stepped out into the sunlight. He had blood dripping down his neck, and his paws were doused in blood. Birchwhisker rushed forward. “What happened?” She yowled.
“Don’t.” Spottednose closed his eyes and shook his head wildly, sending droplets of blood flying. “Don’t come closer.” But Birchwhisker of course did not listen and was greeting with the sight of a wheezing Briarwhisper lying on the ground with her throat slit.
“Spottednose, what did you do?”
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Post by spasticjazzhands on Sept 30, 2019 17:50:26 GMT -8
THE ASSISTED DEATH ( 035 ) LAST MOON Morningstar was having a rough morning. She spent the majority of dawn trudging through snow, patching up cold drafts sneaking their way into the cabin with Ruststripe and Sunchaser. She finally plopped down to get some rest when Birchwhisker rushed over to drag her away once more. Birchwhisker was somewhat hysterical which was unusual for the level-headed molly, and she wouldn’t explain what was wrong. Morningstar was led to the back of the medicine den where Spottednose was standing drenched in blood. “What happened?” She yowled.
“B-B-Briarwhisper tore m-my th-throat.” Spottednose sputtered. He craned his neck to show the spot where the dead warrior had bitten. The blood was mostly clotted now but most of the fur was ripped out and still clenched in Briarwhisper’s jaws. “She went cr-crazy.”
“Get Sunchaser, please.” Morningstar ordered, and Birchwhisker quickly returned with Sunchaser and a trailing Marsh.
“Lawrdy, wha’ happened here?” Marsh drawled.
“What is he doing here?” Morningstar hissed through gritted teeth.
“I came ‘cus ev’ryone looked so worried and wondered if I could help.” Marsh shrugged. “An’ looks like I can, I reckon.”
“You cannot.” Morningstar insisted. The elder just sat down, as stubborn as the first day he arrived and refused a clan name.
“We know more this time, I think.” Spottednose muttered quietly. His eyes were only half-open, slightly swaying on his feet. “Cloudpaw collapsed outside of camp. I didn’t really get to see her before it was too late. Wolfclaw and Sagefeather started with the same complaints of Briarwhisper, but they went quietly. Not peacefully but at least quiet.”
“Quiet?”
“Briarwhisper went loudly.” Spottednose’s eyes rolled up and he promptly fainted. The cats jumped.
“I’ll get Galalight.” Sunchaser stood but Morningstar roughly stopped him.
“Don’t.” She said gruffly. “Marsh and I will get him cleaned up. You and Birchwhisker bury Briarwhisper.”
“Won’t they wonder about a vigil?” Birchwhisker asked softly. She did not want to aggravate the molly, but she also did not agree with keeping more cats in the dark. “Morningstar…”
“We’ll figure that out later.”
“We need to do it now.” Sunchaser said.
“I said no!” Morningstar yowled, now on the edge of hysteria. Spottednose started to stir from the noise, and Marsh gently roused him. “Just-just…” Morningstar shut her eyes. “Just do it and blame me for any repercussions later.”
“As you wish.” Sunchaser dipped his head. “Come on, Birchwhisker.” The older warrior wanted to protest but couldn’t find the words to do so. The two hoisted Briarwhisper onto their backs and carefully carried her out of camp to be secretly buried. While Spottednose was conscious, he was still very dazed, and Morningstar and Marsh essentially had to carry him to the creek. It took a while with them rubbing blood off of his fur in the water for Spottednose to become more aware of his surroundings.
“I’m sorry to cause such trouble.” Spottednose mumbled, pushing the two away from him. He laid down to allow the creek to clean off his neck. A jagged bite mark was now visible. “I didn’t even mean to kill her.”
“You did what you thought was best in that situation I’m sure.” Morningstar still looked concerned, however.
“How did she act?” Marsh asked in a low voice.
“Unstable.” Spottednose said. “She was weak and asked for water. I got her some. She reeled back and lashed out. She was surprisingly strong in the end.”
“Shush.” Morningstar didn’t want to stress him more than necessary, but Marsh continued to press him.
“She didn’t hav’ her wits ‘bout her?”
“She asked for water first.” Spottednose repeated. “I tried to give her water. Why didn’t she want the water?”
Marsh sighed. “He’s just babbling now.”
“Leave him alone; he’s not in his right mind.” Morningstar hissed under her breath. “Spottednose, why don’t we go back to camp?” The molly carefully led the now shivering medicine cat out of the creek.
“I’ll run ‘head and alert Galalight.” Marsh could be surprisingly spry when needed, and by the time the two arrived at the medicine cat den, Marsh and Galalight had already made headway with cleaning up the gore. Galalight rushed forward, eyes widened with concern.
“Let me get a poultice for you!” She scanned his neck, quickly evaluating what herbs would be needed.
“Leave it.” Spottednose snapped.
“Wh-what?” Galalight took a step backwards in shock.
“Leave it alone.” Spottednose growled. “I doubt it would do any good anyway.”
Noise came from the front of the cabin. “Morningstar, are you over here?” It was Ruststripe. He and Stonefrost rounded the corner to stumble across the frazzled group. “Is everything…okay?”
“Briarwhisper has passed on. She fights with StarClan now.” Morningstar stood in front of the faint blood stains hoping they wouldn’t notice. Stonefrost’s face crumpled. “I’m sorry, Stonefrost. She died peacefully.” Morningstar felt uncomfortable about lying but the truth was ugly.
Minnowflash was once again leading his rowdy patrol to mark all the borders. This time he was more lenient towards the loud conversations as his mind was once again occupied with thoughts of Quietstep and Graybelly. He knew which one he preferred but her heart might already be settled on someone else. Or at least for the moment. A small flash of movement caught his eye for a second. He paused and scrutinized a crouching ball of white behind a rock. “Guys, quiet down.” He hissed to his patrol and approached the furball.
“Who is it?” Rushingflame asked.
“Hello,” Stormheart bounded forward. “Would you be willing to join TwistedClan?”
“Can everyone not talk all at once?” Honeytail yelled over the noise.
“What is even happening?” The new white tom asked.
“I said quiet!” Minnowflash lashed his tail at his fellow warriors.
“Don’t worry, we don’t bite.” Willowbranch smiled.
“Come follow us back to camp!” Thundercry offered. The white tom decided just obeying whatever the young cats were saying would be easier than trying to argue. He also didn’t mind his name changing from Snow to Snowstorm.
PRESENT Flameleap sat next to Nightpelt, gathered at Morningstar’s orders. “Neritefang looks pretty peeved.” He whispered.
“Haven’t you met her?” Nightpelt raised one eyebrow. “I bet she would rather keel over on a patrol than spend one second as an elder.”
“Do you think she’ll get along with Marsh?”
“I bet Marsh will think they’re getting along at least.” Nightpelt said. The two both were quieted from a sharp look from Sunchaser at the base of the tree. The elder ceremony was about to commence.
“Neritefang, is it your wish to give up the name of a warrior and join the elders?” Morningstar asked loudly.
“It is.” Neritefang said with an annoyed lash of her tail.
“TwistedClan honors you and all of the service you have given us. I call upon StarClan to give you many moons of rest.” Morningstar bowed her head to the new elder.
“Neritefang!” TwistedClan cheered. Neritefang slowly made her way down the trunk of the tree and was greeted by a purring Marsh.
“It’ll be nice to hav’ some company ‘round here.” Marsh said enthusiastically.
“Right.” Neritefang sighed.
“A promising start.” Flameleap snorted.
Spottednose did not attend the elder ceremony. He stiffly sat staring up at the sky. His body ached and the brightness of the sunrays were not helping his headache, but he remained in his position. He obviously had the illness that Briarwhisper had been infected with, and he guessed that the recent deaths were related to this as well. Galalight quickly returned after the cheers for Neritefang had quieted down. “How are you doing?” She asked quickly. “Don’t you want to lie down?”
“No,” Spottednose shut his eyes tight and looked down. “Moving hurts, light hurts, thinking hurts.” He reported.
“Can’t I put anything on your neck?” Galalight’s eyes moved over the scabbed bite mark. “It might help.”
“It’s too late.” Spottednose met her eyes. “Bring me water, please.”
“Water?” She hesitated.
“I want to see what happens.” Spottednose’s voice was gravely. “But don’t worry.” He gestured to a dark berry laying on a leaf in front of him. “I’ll take care of myself. You just need to observe.”
“You can’t be serious.” Galalight’s heart quickened.
“I’m dying, Galalight. And I am going on my own terms.” Spottednose carefully got up to stretch his legs one at a time wincing. “Could you hurry? My thoughts…. they are getting…spotty, if that is the correct term.”
“Should I bring Morningstar?” Galalight asked. She didn’t want to watch her mentor die, and she thought the calico could talk some sense back into him.
“No, she doesn’t need to see this.” Spottednose said. “Water, please.” Although Galalight was distressed, she did return alone and with a big wad of wet moss. She tossed it towards him and scurried backwards. He bent down. He was quite thirsty before, but now the thought of actually drinking the water seemed to repulse him. He forced himself to take a few laps of the water. The first swallow went down fine, but his throat spasmed and he painfully choked on the rest. He started coughing and hacking, a foam forming on his lips.
“…you…alright?” Her voice seemed distant. It hurt his ears. It bothered him. Where did that sound come from? Could he silence it? Through his narrowed eyes, he could see the moss that he was drooling on. He batted it away with a snarl. His eyes now rested on the single deathberry. Would he be able to choke it down? Did he want to? He really didn’t. He threw his head up and was now eye-level with the orange molly. She looked fearful. He thought it was because of him; it made him… satisfied. Ouch, taking a step sent aching pains from his paw all the way up to his brain.
“Spottednose…” Galalight’s voice cracked. “….okay?”
For a split second, his own rational mind broke through the painful fractions. He remembered the first day when he met Morningstar. It was just her and Stormstrike then. He didn’t think TwistedClan would have made it this far at the start to be honest. Then it was the uneasy period of Copperleaf and the dogs. Silverstem’s horror as both of her kits died before warriorhood. Did he miss the old days when the Clan was small and intimate? When Rainsong was still a shy apprentice and Sunchaser just an easy-going warrior? When TwistedClan seemed carefree? Everyone had to grow older, but they all seemed to harden as time went on. Cats don’t live in the wild to have fun; they survive. And survive they would, just without Spottednose. A twinge of regret shot through him. Would they remember him? He stretched to carefully bring the deathberry into his mouth. It was juicy and bitter. It was a battle to swallow, but he did manage to choke it down. A sharp spasm sent him to the ground. His gaze returned to the sky.
Goodbye, TwistedClan… he fought to keep his sight from blurring. I wish you well, Morningstar.
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Post by spasticjazzhands on Sept 30, 2019 17:54:10 GMT -8
THE INSIGHT ( 036 ) LAST MOON A pattern was starting to emerge in TwistedClan. While the cats did not know the direct causes of deaths, even the apprentices could tell that something eerie was occurring. Spottednose’s vigil was held in uneasy silence, cats spreading out in little clusters rather than sitting close by the body. Morningstar was the only one with her face pressed in her friend’s stiff fur. She did not heed the warning from Galalight. “The dead are dying for a reason,” The sole medicine cat hissed. “We might not know the reason but that doesn’t mean completely ignore it!” Morningstar only dismissed her with a sharp glare and tail whip. She wasn’t getting any younger and if need be, she could spare a life to honor her friend. But it didn’t come to that.
“Let all cats able to climb a tree gather here below!” Morningstar’s voice cracked from no use. She still wasn’t really in the mood for talking but normal clan-life must go on. It was unfortunate that Dovepaw didn’t pass her final exam, but she was sure with another moon of fine tuning with Crowtalon, Dovepaw would receive her warrior name very soon. That didn’t stop the feisty molly from sulking away from her siblings and Rainsong. Sunchaser gave Dovepaw a stern look from his place at the base of the Ceremony Tree that clearly said suck it up. Patchpaw was the first to approach Morningstar. “Patchpaw, do you promise to uphold TwistedClan’s traditions and to protect the Clan with your life?” She called from the Ceremony Tree.
“I do.” Patchpaw said.
“Then, I give you your warrior name, Patchnose. Remember that to always follow your gut.” She rested her muzzle on his forehead, and Petalpaw replaced him. “Petalpaw, do you promise to uphold TwistedClan’s traditions and to protect the Clan with your life?”
“I do.” Petalpaw said.”
“Then, I give you your warrior name, Petalfall. Remember that taking a break is sometimes the best option.” TwistedClan called their new names as she rested her muzzle on Petalfall. “Go easy on Dovepaw.” She murmured. “I’m sure she’s frustrated.” Petalfall blinked and joined her brother on the ground. Morningstar stayed on her branch watching the Clan cheering happily. Her Clan. Would they even survive this? Could they pull through?
PRESENT “Hey.” Graybelly softly jabbed Minnowflash. “I’m not stupid, you know.”
Minnowflash raised a brow. “I never said that.” He licked her ear. “What are you talking about?”
“I see the way you look at her.” Graybelly had followed Minnowflash’s line of sight. “If you love her instead, go after her.” She said gently.
“I don’t.” Minnowflash choked out. “I only have eyes for you, Graybelly.”
“And eventually another molly that catches your eye?” Graybelly softly smiled. She had known him long enough to realize that his heart would never be fully hers. But, she did figure she could settle with loving him for however long he could.
He stuttered. “That’s not necessarily true.”
“It’s okay. We don’t have to define ourselves.” Graybelly leaned into him. “Just know that I do love you.” She felt a sharp pain of hurt when he didn’t say ‘I love you’ back but wasn’t surprised either.
“Sunchaser? I don’t mean to interrupt anything, but may I have a word?” Galalight asked quietly. Marsh still overheard, but she figured the old cat would leave them alone. She was in fact wrong as it seemed Marsh would take no hints of social awareness. Or perhaps he noticed but just did not care. Now that Galalight thought about it, she figured it was the latter. Sunchaser rose to follow her to a more secluded area but stopped him when Marsh also got to his feet. “Whatever.” She was too tired to deal with this now. He knew what really happened with Briarwhisper anyway. “Let’s talk here.”
“Please tell me this is good news.” Sunchaser looked many moons older than he was. Becoming deputy of TwistedClan at this point of time was a stressful job.
“Unfortunately, it is not.” Galalight said.
“Is it ‘bout Spottednose?” Marsh drawled. “I’m old, not dumb.” He added when Galalight shot him a surprised glance.
“Well…yes.” She started slowly. “Spottednose did not die in his sleep. He ate a deathberry.”
“This sounds like information that Morningstar needs to hear.” Sunchaser stopped her.
“I think she will need to know in time but not right now.” Galalight picked her words carefully. “It’s not very pleasant to process, and she is still heavily grieving.” She got a nod allowing her to continue. “He was infected with whatever Briarwhisper caught. And probably what Wolfclaw and Sagefeather had. Maybe even Cloudpaw. It seemed that he experienced all of their general complaints: headache, body aches, dehydration. He didn’t seem…completely all together for a few days before he…well. And that day it was a lot worse. It wasn’t like he forgot what he was doing at times, he didn’t seem to even recognize me. That might be why Briarwhisper did attack Spottednose if she was that sick.”
“I-I’m sure that’s good information to know for treating cats, but how is this going to help the rest of us?” Sunchaser sounded strained.
“It gives us something to look out for. I don’t have any way of treating something we still don’t understand. Honestly the most effective herb so far was the deathberry!” Her voice was getting shriller.
“If I can put my two cents in…” Marsh ignored the annoyed looks and continued. “…when I was a young lad livin’ in some trees, I reckon as this forest. By was some grassland…or maybe the prairie? Hm, I don’t particularly recall, but I reckon it’s not very important. Anyway, there was a period o’ time where both prey an’ predator would jus’ go outta their minds. Cats would go mental on family. Prey would be dead on the ground an’ no one was eating ‘em. No one knew who would get The Craze next. The symptoms are somewhat similar.” Marsh finished his story.
“What did you do?” Galalight didn’t realize she was whispering. “What happened to the forest?”
“Everything was dead or moved.” Marsh said quietly. “No one could figure out the cause or how to fix the crazed. I moved to a hilly valley. I was probably around twenty moons ol’ then and haven’t seen anything like that since. Thought I would never again.”
“What does that mean for us?”
“Time will tell.”
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Post by spasticjazzhands on Sept 30, 2019 17:58:18 GMT -8
THE CHANGE OF TONE ( 037 ) LAST MOON “I give you your warrior name, Dovestrike. Keep up your perseverance.” Morningstar rested her muzzle on the new warrior’s head. TwistedClan cheered and Petalfall and Patchnose were the loudest. Morningstar let the sound of her cats wash over her. What started off as happy cheering soon morphed into ominous chanting in her ears. She could have sworn low growls even were mixed in with the chanting. Her eyes snapped open. There were no monsters, no beasts. Just joyful cheering. But that didn’t help the lump of dread hidden in Morningstar’s mind.
PRESENT The air could be cut by a claw with all of the tension held in camp. Graybelly was expecting Minnowflash’s kits, but the tom did not seem very excited about the prospect of becoming a father. Sunchaser seemed cagey, trying to avoid any heavy topics and stick with small talk about weather. Morningstar was still lethargic and tense with everyone, including Ruststripe. Neritefang was sulking in retirement even snapping at the kits at times. Stonefrost still hadn’t recovered from his mate’s death, spending most of his time at the Burial Site. The only boisterous sounds were from the scuffling of the older kits and the laughing apprentices. Even the youngest warriors were subdued by the uneasy tensions. Something was happening in their forest but what?
Morningstar led her patrol in the new-leaf breeze mostly in silence. They were looking for materials to patch up the cabin to prepare for any rain or storms. Following behind her was Finchflight, Thistlefur, Petalfall, Dovestrike, and Jaywhistle. Thistlefur exclaimed “Here’s a dead bush, we can snag some twigs!” Petalfall and Dovestrike bounded over to collect as many as they could carry.
Finchflight stretched her neck. “Should we check down by the creek for some clay?” She asked the others. “Then we’ll have something to hold everything in place.” Morningstar gave a sharp nod. Before the three cats could continue, a deep growl sent their fur bristling. “Did you here that?”
Morningstar surveyed the area, only now catching the soft glint of eyes staring from beyond the brush. “There.” She murmured, pointing her tail to the culprit. She willed the other half of the patrol to quiet down as they had not realized anything was off yet. Too late, Morningstar sneered in annoyance. Petalfall had just turned to show off the amount of sticks she had gathered when a loud bark (more like a deep BOOF) sent the twigs spilling onto the dirt. “Dog!” Morningstar shouted. She didn’t want to even look when the beast stepped into view if its voice was any indicator of its size. However, she could not fight it off with her eyes closed, so she also stepped towards it. The dog was quite large, larger than the first dogs they had run off of the territory. The dog seemed to be alone, its head twitching from side to side and face already scratched from stumbling around in the bushes. It swayed on its feet and a white foaming substance dripped from its maw. Its once sleek black and brown coat was caked with dried mud. BOOF. It took a second, but its eyes eventually locked on the small calico with a twisted paw. Morningstar stood still in its path, wanting the beast to swipe at her first rather than her clanmates. It only took one swipe from the lumbering beast to knock her to her feet, but Finchflight and Jaywhistle were quick to jump to her defense. Jaywhistle was surprised to find the dog did not have a tail and without a longhaired coat to snag onto, he was left swiping at its lanky legs. Finchflight jumped for the throat but she received a bite on her back, instantly breaking her spine leaving her dead on the grass. Thistlefur, Petalfall, and Dovestrike ran to join the fight as well. Morningstar shook drops of blood and foam from her head. “Go for the throat!” She ordered. Dovestrike leaped up leaving a good claw mark on the dog’s heaving chest and sustained a ripped ear with a shriek. Petalfall snarled and attacked its shoulders, letting her sister escape its reach. The dog scuttled away in a crouch and took a second to refocus its beady eyes. It lunged once more, and Morningstar twisted to avoid its jaws. The beast’s weight landed on her back legs, sending her sprawling. A sharp slice to her belly left her there bleeding, just waiting for StarClan to reclaim another one of her lives. As the world was fading to black, she witnessed Jaywhistle and Petalfall coming at the dog with teeth and claws bared from both sides.
Morningstar refused any help making it back to camp. She half-dragged herself all the way back to the cabin, following Thistlefur and Petalfall carrying the fallen Finchflight. Dovestrike trailed behind Morningstar, blood covering the right half of her face where most of her ear was missing. “Are you alright?” Silverstem yowled in surprise. She shooed Mallardwing away with her kits and rushed to meet the frazzled patrol. “Galalight!” The medicine cat ushered them back to the medicine cat bush to be treated. She first wrapped Dovestrike’s ear, or rather what was remaining of it, and then prodded at Morningstar’s back legs. One leg could be easily set, but the other was too mangled to help. The entire lower half of her leg was almost twisted completely backwards and stiff.
“I’m not sure what I’ll do with your right leg but let me set the other.” Galalight grabbed a stick for a brace.
“Don’t bother with the other.” The leader’s voice was gruff. “It doesn’t matter anymore.”
“Don’t be ridiculous!” Ruststripe had pushed past the crowd that was now forming around the injured cats. “Do whatever you feel necessary.”
“LEAVE ME BE!” Morningstar yowled at the top of her lungs. “Obviously I am not fit to be any sort of leader and StarClan has made it clear that they want me to suffer. Leave me alone.” Sunchaser shooed the gathering clan back.
“Is she going to be okay?” Tigerpaw asked quietly. Cinderpaw and Riverpaw also watched the deputy with sad eyes. They all knew how much stress their mother was under, but she usually kept up appearances for the cats.
“She’s just…” Sunchaser was going to give some excuse about shock, but he couldn’t find it in his heart to lie. “I’m not sure. She’s having a really hard time right now. Why don’t you go comfort the younger apprentices? I’m sure they’re just as confused.” He noticed Ruststripe now standing at his shoulder. “Sorry if I overstepped any boundaries.”
“That’s alright.” Ruststripe sighed. “You know Morningstar better than I do now anyway.” The deputy opened his mouth to apologize once more but he stopped him. “No, I understand it’s nothing like that.” Ruststripe assured. “I just want to be able to support her more, but she won’t let me.”
The two toms stood silently. Sunchaser kept trying to turn his thoughts back to Morningstar and her mental breakdown, but he kept replaying the amount of blood on Dovestrike’s face. Would she become…Crazed as Marsh was recounting? Because there was something dark happening in their forest, and it seemed that even when cats didn’t die from their injuries, they eventually succumbed to…something. Rainsong would be devastated if one of her kits, who just became warriors as well, died. And Sunchaser would be too. After all, he did help raise them and everyone assumed he was their father in the first place. But now with Morningstar not in the right mindset, only Galalight and himself knew about the prophecy, and Galalight already had a lot of responsibilities thrusted upon her. Sunchaser came to his decision. “Ruststripe, would you mind going somewhere more private? I have some information that may be important for you to know…”
“Let all cats able to climb a…” Morningstar scowled. This usually call wouldn’t do as she could not even climb to announce anything from the Ceremony Tree anymore. “TwistedClan, gather here before me!” The cats streamed out of the cabin, slightly confused at the summons this early in the morning. Sunchaser and Ruststripe took their places off to the side of the leader, and it was clear that even they didn’t know what Morningstar was going to say. “I know everybody is unsure about TwistedClan’s future. I am as well.” She paused making sure she said her words correctly. “I will not step down as leader. I have four lives left and am more than willing to lose those lives for TwistedClan. However, I am no longer Morningstar. That name doesn’t represent me anymore. I chose the name Morningstar at the dawn of a brand-new clan, and now that clan is not the bright, happy clan it once was. I shall take the name Twistedstar signaling I have fought for my clan and will absolutely die for my clan.”
There was one new calculating face in the crowd of TwistedClan. Darkmist, formerly Darkstar of Lucid Shadows, had found the clan recovering from the latest attack. Her eyes narrowed. Could an opportunity to regain her leader status be approaching?
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Post by spasticjazzhands on Sept 30, 2019 18:01:59 GMT -8
THE DESERTERS ( 038 ) LAST MOON “Morn…uh…Twistedstar?” Galalight corrected herself. “Why don’t you eat these?” She pushed a bundle of dried oak leaves and feverfew towards the leader. “You’ve been pushing yourself rather hard for your weak condition lately.”
The calico regarded the herbs with a skeptical gaze before finally lapping them up. Ruststripe flicked his tail happily. “Dear, I know you’re trying your best, but you cannot do that if you are dead.”
Galalight nodded vigorously. “You are on bedrest until further notice. The Clan is already restless as it is, we don’t need you to lose any more lives.”
PRESENT There was quite a commotion in the center of camp. Dovestrike had fallen ill, and Sunchaser was extremely anxious although he wouldn’t talk about it. Darkmist had been assisting Twistedstar and Sunchaser with their duties since “I know what it was like to be leader, and I would want someone to help me out if it was me”. Birchwhisker and Ruststripe had taken shifts to make sure Twistedstar wasn’t overexerting herself. So when there was a loud argument taking place in camp, they were all relieved it wasn’t Twistedstar working herself up.
“I’m not going to wait here to die off one by one!” A tabby tom was yowling at his black mate. “I actually want our family to survive together.”
“Valleyrunner…” Crowtalon pleaded. “We aren’t going to die! Our kits finally became apprentices, we can’t leave now.”
“I’m not Valleyrunner, I’m Geronimo! We were heading to the mountains, why did we even stop here? There’s something happening in this forest, and I want out!”
“Can we talk about this privately?” Crowtalon asked. “We can debate like always and make a decision together.”
“I’ve had enough.” Valleyrunner dropped his voice. “You can stay, but I’m taking our kits far away from this place.” All the attention turned to the three apprentices sitting on the sidelines of the argument with wide eyes. “Come on, Ravenpaw, Twilightpaw, and Mountainpaw. You’re coming with me.” Valleyrunner urged them. Ravenpaw and Twilightpaw took a few uncertain steps towards their angry father, but Mountainpaw stayed sitting.
“I don’t want to go.” Mountainpaw softly said. “I want to stay and become a warrior.”
“Are you really leaving?” Crowtalon’s voice broke. “We’ve known each other practically our whole lives.”
“Come with us.” Valleyrunner urged. “Please, Crow.”
“I’m going to stay Crowtalon.” He said. “I’ve chosen my path, and it’s here.” As he watched his mate and two kits walk out of camp into the unknown, his heart ached. Turning, he slowly went to his nest which still smelled of Valleyrunner. When it came time for the apprentices to switch out the bedding, Crowtalon still kept a small chunk of moss from his old nest even though Valleyrunner’s scent was long gone.
Softdapple was quietly cleaning herself before going on her first patrol as a warrior. She was taking Valleyrunner’s place in Snowstorm’s hunting patrol and was patiently waiting for the sun to fully peak out from the trees. A snap of a twig turned her attention to the brush beside her. “Rushingflame? Why are you sneaking around? Most of the clan is already awake.”
“I guess this does work out better if I tell somebody.” Rushingflame whispered. “I’m leaving.”
“Like leaving-leaving?” Softdapple softly exclaimed.
“I think Valleyrunner had a point. My mother already was killed by this forest, and I don’t want to be next.” Rushingflame said.
“Where will you go?” Softdapple asked. She wasn’t prepared for telling the rest of the clan how she just let a warrior leave just like that.
“Anywhere.” Rushingflame shrugged. “I’m not very picky.”
And that was that. The fluffy calico was gone. “Ready to go?” Snowstorm’s deep voice soothed her.
“Rushingflame is gone.” Softdapple said. “She left.”
“I wouldn’t be surprised if she wasn’t the last to leave.”
It turned out Snowstorm’s prediction was correct. With Dovestrike’s health deteriorating and having Twistedstar get around by half-dragging herself across the dirt, TwistedClan was becoming increasingly anxious. Claystream departed without Mallardwing, causing yet another heartbreaking goodbye. She did trust her daughter to stay strong, but this place was filled with bittersweet memories with Toadsplash. Galalight was worried about Stonefrost leaving since he never bounced back from Briarwhisper’s death, but he walked out of camp without any doubts. Jaywhistle took a more secretive route to disappear, and TwistedClan assumed he had ditched the clan since his body never was found on a patrol. Windcall, despite his loud and obnoxious personality, had lost a significant amount of weight from stress and tried his best to announce his departure with dignity. A day later, Galalight assisted Dovestrike’s journey into StarClan with a foxglove seed as her condition deteriorated into the Crazed state that Marsh had talked about. However, it seemed the wave of fleeing cats had ceased. Rainsong and her kits mourned Dovestrike, but their faith remained steady in TwistedClan.
Quietstep turned her head slightly as pawsteps approached her. “How’s Graybelly doing?” She asked Minnowflash brightly. She swore she saw an annoyed look flit across his face for a second before he answered.
“Still doing fine.” He responded curtly. “I’m glad you haven’t left TwistedClan yet.”
“Yet?” Quietstep’s voice hardened. “I’m not a kittypet anymore. I’m a warrior.”
“I know,” Minnowflash backpedaled. “I didn’t mean it like that. I’ll try again…I’m glad you’re still here.”
Quietstep huffed. “That’s a bit better.”
“Hey, I grabbed a squirrel for us to share!” Stormheart came trotting towards the two. “Oh, hi, Minnowflash! Wanna bite?” He offered.
“No thanks.” Minnowflash dipped his head and stood. “I should bring something to Graybelly. She’s grouchy if she’s hungry.” Quietstep watched the tom leave. His sleek figure moved easily throughout the bushes.
“Did I miss anything fun?” Stormheart watched her with his mouth full.
“No, just talked about Graybelly.” Quietstep turned her attention to her friend and meal. Although perhaps if Stormheart didn’t show up, their conversation would have become a bit more fun.
“Are you okay?” Honeytail asked Maplebreeze. “You seemed quiet lately.”
“I just can’t get Cloudpaw out of my head.” Maplebreeze shut her eyes. Honeytail held his breath. He hadn’t heard any of the siblings mention Cloudpaw or Goosedawn in a while. “And how helpless we all are.”
“You don’t want to leave do you?” Honeytail loved Maplebreeze and would go if she wanted to, but he also wanted to stay in the first place that really felt like home to him.
“I don’t think leaving would make it any better. Cloudpaw, Goosedawn, and Stormstrike are already gone. Birchwhisker can’t take another loss.” Maplebreeze leaned against him. “I’m glad I have you to confide in. Willowbranch and Thundercry want to jump into doing something right away instead of thinking with a level head like you.” They intertwined tails.
“I love you.”
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