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Chapter Text

The sun was just starting to rise as you were awoken, it was your turn to go on dawn patrol. You yawned and grumbled as your friend woke you up. Firepaw looked eager as ever, while Graypaw was sitting next to him, still sleepy.

You softly batted Firepaw's paw away from you and stood up. Firepaw just smiled and let out a small chuckle at your actions.

"Alright guys, let's get this bread," you say as you quickly walked out of the den, leaving them both tilting their heads in confusion.

Graypaw was the first to catch up to you, roughly nudging your shoulder to get your attention.

"What does 'get this bread' mean?" He asked, the confusion written all over his face. You just snorted and scoffed at his reaction.

"Wouldn't you like to know, GAYpaw!" You jokingly said to him. Graypaw let out an offended huff at the joke, he had been staring at Firepaw's rear ONLY ONCE, and you REFUSED to let it go.

"What's wrong with you?" He growled lowly in irritation. You grinned smugly at him as Firepaw finally caught up to you two. Only StarClan knows why he's so slow.

"What can I say Graypaw? I'm just not like the other girls!" You say as you puff out your chest and place your paw upon it. Graypaw's nose wrinkled in disgust as he stared at you.

"Are you even a she-cat?" A newcomer asked. It was Sandpaw, and she was smart enough to figure out what some of your weird words meant, but that didn't stop her from constantly wanting to claw your tongue out.

You frowned and mulled over her words. She was right. To the confusion of yourself and the other cats, you had no way to determine if you were a she-cat or a tom. IT WAS WEIRD. Sometimes you felt out of place not knowing, but you got over it quick! Screw that! Who needs gender?! Although, you knew if you really wanted to be a she-cat or a tom you would somehow be one. You could feel it in your jellies.

"Don't worry about it my dear Sandpaw " you say as you walk over and softly pat her head. She puffed her cheeks out in annoyance, feeling like she was being looked down on.

"Stop messing around!" A cat hissed. You'd recognize that iconic SSSwarriorcat voice anywhere! It was your mentor, Tigerclaw! You quickly turned around and ran up to him, eager to start your patrol. Behind you Graypaw, Firepaw, and Sandpaw frowned at Tigerclaw. Meanwhile you pranced around him, chanting "Let's get this bread", while waiting for the others to catch up. Even though he found you annoying Tigerclaw found your weirdness also endearing. He figured that you were what happened when half clan cats were allowed to exist. He didn't know if you were a half clan cat or not but he figured that was probably your issue. Poor thing. He thinks back to when you were found.

Tigerclaw had been on patrol with Bluestar, Firepaw, Whitestorm, Redtail, Ravenpaw, and Sandpaw. They were checking the Sunningrocks, to make sure those cursed water cats weren't trying to sunbathe there again. Once they got there they only saw one cat, apprentice size, it was you. Still, Tigerclaw's bullying instincts kicked in and he rushed towards you. He never missed an opportunity to beat up a stranger!

You heard Tigerclaw's large form coming towards you, and your eyes snapped open in alarm. You knew death was imminent, no escape. You closed your eyes and braced yourself for impact. Only the impact never came.

You slowly opened one eye, and saw Redtail standing in front of Tigerclaw. Tigerclaw's face was scrunched up, surprised that any cat would dare stand in his way.

"What did we tell you about BULLYING Tigerclaw!", the younger cat reprimanded Tigerclaw. Tigerclaw hissed but held his tongue. You were then questioned on what you were doing in ThunderClan territory and your response was "lol idk" to everything. What did those words even mean?

Bluestar took pity on you and decided to let you join Thunderclan. For some unknown reason she also decided to make Tigerclaw your mentor, and he had regretted saying he didn't want Ravenpaw as an apprentice. Now Redtail had Ravenpaw and he was stuck with you! He was sure you were cursed. Whenever someone would try to say your name everything would go silent. He discussed it with the other cats and they all said it happened to them too. But they decided to ignore it, since you obviously heard them.

And despite all of that he found himself...warming up to you?? You were weird and charming, and there were times he actually felt a sort of fatherly love towards you. You were a bumbling idiot but you were his bumbling idiot. He almost found it fun seeing what new ways you almost killed yourself and it definitely gave him a workout saving your stupid ass.

Today was definitely going to be an eventful day, he finally trusted you enough to hunt for yourself and it was time to see if you could hunt or if that weird curse would cause trouble.

You eagerly chatted with Sandpaw, Firepaw, and Graypaw as he and Whitestorm led the way, Bluestar in the rear. When they were finally a good distance away from camp they stopped. Everyone turned to you, knowing what this was really about. Were you worth anything or not?

"Hey, listen closely (y/n)!" Tigerclaw said to you. You turned your head to look at him. "Use your senses to find prey. It's time to put your training to use." You nodded eagerly as you went a little ahead of everyone. You stopped, closed your eyes, and opened your mouth. Using your hearing and enhanced sense of smell at the same time. You opened your eyes as you heard grass rustling, looking towards the source of the noise you spot a mouse slowly moving in the grass. You crouch, getting ready to pounce. In your brain a die rolls. You see the numbers in bright (e/c).

20.

You grin. Bunching up your muscles, you launch yourself. Screaming "VIBE CHECK", as you land on the mouse. Unbeknownst to you, all the other cats, except Tigerclaw, facepalm. You skillfully catch the mouse and kill it. Tigerclaw's chest puffs out with pride. The cats lower their paws, surprise on their face as they see the plump mouse in your jaw.

You drop the mouse in front of them. "It failed the vibe check!", you announce happily. They didnt know what that meant but at the moment they didn't care. You had potential!

Chapter Text

After your successful hunting trip you, Firepaw, Graypaw, Sandpaw, and Ravenpaw had a little celebration. Sandpaw gifted you with a big rabbit she had caught and you all sat down to eat your meals.

“I can’t believe you actually caught that mouse!” Graypaw said as he took a big bite out of the bird he was eating. Murmurs of agreement were heard as your fellow apprentices agreed with Graypaw, expecting you to still need a lot more practice. You let out a huff and stopped eating your rabbit. A small frown on your face. Sure you weren’t the best, but did everyone seriously have so little faith in you? No one noticed your frowning, too busy stuffing their faces.

“I’m full,” you announced as you stood. “Here, you can have the rest of my rabbit Fatpaw,” you say with a lighthearted tone. Graypaw thanks you as he drags the rabbit next to his bird.

“What are you about to do, (y/n)?” Ravenpaw asked, sensing your mood shift. You gave him a soft smile.

“I’m gonna find a nice sunny spot to rest after a day of hard work!” you announced with an upbeat tone.

“You call catching a mouse hard work?” Sandpaw scoffed.

“Hey lay off of them Sandpaw! It was their first successful hunt they can be proud!” Graypaw grumbled. You let out an appreciative purr, you teased him a lot but out of everyone you got along with Graypaw the best.

Meanwhile Firepaw had been quietly observing you. He had also noticed your mood shift after everyone announced how they didn’t expect you to catch anything, and he felt bad.

“Do you want any company?” He asked, hoping to apologize in private. You just smiled and shook your head.

“I’ll be fine Firepaw, but thanks for offering.” You said as you finally excuse yourself, heading out of camp.

Once you were a good distance away you started to sniff around and listen for prey. You were determined to prove you were just as worthy, no, worth more than your average warrior! Your heard the soft sound of grass moving, and your eyes locked in on your target. It was a rabbit. Almost as big as Sandpaw’s! You crouch, confident. You could see the 20-sided die in your head again, and as you jumped at the rabbit you saw the number.

Mid leap the rabbit dashes off, startled by a sudden loud noise. You only manage to scrape its side lightly and your tail puffs out in annoyance. You turn towards the source of the noise and freeze up, it’s Tigerclaw and he doesn’t look happy.

“What are you doing here, (y/n)?” He hisses at you. You lower yourself and stare at the ground.

“I was just hunting, Tigerclaw,” you mumbled.

“Did you get my permission?” he asked even though he already knew the answer.

You lift your head up to look into his eyes, regret clear on your face. “No, I didn’t Tigerclaw, but no one thought I could hunt! You all expected me to fail!” You almost wailed the last part, finally letting your sadness show. “I just wanted to prove myself.”

Tigerclaw walked up to you, never breaking eye contact. You were the one to look away as he spoke.

“Do you know why I let you hunt today?” He asked you.

“To see if I was capable of hunting…”

“No, it’s because I knew you could hunt.” At that your head snapped up in alarm and you looked at Tigerclaw again. He had a genuine smile and let out a purr at your shocked face.

“No one else believed in you because they’re fools, you will make a fine warrior someday, (y/n). And I’m proud to be your mentor.”

You let out a sniffle and thanked Tigerclaw, cuddling close to him for comfort. Although it had been a while since Tigerclaw let someone cuddle against him, he let you. He could feel anger bubbling in him. Upset that the others made you sad. He couldn’t deny he cared for you now. He was going to make sure that everyone realized their mistake of looking down on you. But for now you needed a break, you did your job today.

“(y/n),” Tigerclaw said. “Remember this, I’m your mentor. You should only be concerned with what I say. If I believe in you then the thoughts of no one else matters, understand?” You nod and finally stand up, taking a step back from Tigerclaw. “Now you deserve a break for your hard work, so take it.”

“Thank you for the good vibes Tigerclaw!” you happily announce as you run off. He was right, you did good and deserved a break. And so you began to make your way to sunningrocks.

.

.

.

There was a surprise at sunningrocks, another cat there, definitely not ThunderClan. Your fur bristled in alarm. You advanced slowly, but the cat still heard you and opened their eyes. Beautiful bright blue eyes stared back at you, and you let out a surprise “oh!”. Never before had you seen such pretty eyes. The cat let out a light laugh at your reaction and stood. You cleared your throat and approached, tail raised, stern look on your face.

“What are you doing on ThunderClan territory?” You hissed.

“My name is Silverpaw," she responded, ignoring your hiss. “I’m a RiverClan apprentice, and just so you know Sunningrocks belonged to RiverClan first. I have a right to be here.” She said in a snooty tone.

“It’s ThunderClan territory now!” You responded with a growl. At this Silverpaw just shrugged. “ThunderClan likes to sun here, why can’t I do the same? What is the harm if I’m not taking away your prey?”

You were kind of stumped at this. She had a point. Why fight if there was nothing being stolen from ThunderClan territory?

“Well…my name is (y/n). I guess you have a point about that. So I’ll keep you being here a secret between us!” You say as you bounded over to her eagerly. Having a secret friend to sun with sounded exciting!

“That sounds nice, (y/n)!” Silverpaw said with a laugh. “I think I’ll enjoy being friends with you, and who knows? Maybe we can help RiverClan and ThunderClan get along!”

The two of you spend time talking, you learn of RiverClan life and you tell her what little you know of ThunderClan. You also tell her of how you came to ThunderClan, and that you have no memory of your past. Before you know it the sun is starting to go down and you both know it’s time to go.

“Thanks for spending time with me Silverpaw!” You happily say. Silverpaw purrs in response.

“And thank you for letting my stay here, too many cats are so quick to fight over little things.” Silverpaw goes to the river and stares at it before turning to look at you. “Wait there for a minute.” Your ears perk in interest and you sit down to watch. Silverpaw focuses on the river before her paw quickly swipes down. She pulls out a fish and it flops around until she kills it with a swift bite. She takes the fish to you and drops it in front of you.

“A gift to our friendship! Let’s eat before we leave.” Silverpaw happily says. You nod with a grin and you both start eating. Once it’s finished Silverpaw gives you a friendly lick to the ear and thanks you again before leaving. You wave goodbye and then begin making your way back to camp, stomach full and happy to make a new friend.

Chapter Text

You went back to camp after meeting Silverpaw, since the sun was setting you decided now was a good time to lay down and rest. As you made your way into the apprentice den you saw Sandpaw, Dustpaw, and Firepaw. Dustpaw and Sandpaw were loudly talking about their day, obviously trying to make Firepaw jealous. But he just listened eagerly to their words, no jealousy in him. You just sighed and shook your head as you went to lay down in your nest. It was in the back of the den, darker than everywhere else. The darkness brought you comfort. The two older apprentices calmed their loud talking when they saw you tiredly walking past, and Dustpaw snorted.

“You do nothing all day and you’re tired?” Dustpaw sneered at you.

“That’s kittypet behavior (y/n)!” Sandpaw joined in, scolding you for your laziness. “You should leave such behavior to Firepaw!”

Firepaw’s fur started to bristle as he frowned at the words. Not liking his past to be brought up.

“Oh lay off you two. I did my work today, if you have a problem with it take it up with Tigerclaw!” You taunted Dustpaw and Sandpaw, knowing they wouldn’t dare try question him.

“Whatever, weakling” Dustpaw hissed at you. You ignored him, deciding instead to try and sleep.

.

..

.

When you woke up the sun was starting to rise. You felt another body pressed up against you and looked to your side to see Ravenpaw. It wasn’t uncommon to wake up next to the shy cat, you both liked to sleep in the back and you had an easier time staying asleep with another warm body close by. The same was for him, and despite you being boisterous at times inside the den you were surprisingly calm. You smiled at his still sleeping form before getting up. You made sure to not rush since you didn’t want to wake him. You quietly passed by all the other sleeping cats and out the den. You were admittedly full of energy since you spent most of yesterday resting.

Looking to the sky you saw that the stars were still out, the sun barely showing. You looked around and saw the mostly empty camp, most cats were probably still sleeping. You walked to the center of the camp and sat down, wondering what you would be doing today.

“Uh…(y/n)?” You startled at the sound of Firepaw’s voice. You turned to look at him and saw he had a troubled look on his face.

“What’s wrong, Firepaw?” You asked as he sat next to you. He stared at his paws for a moment before speaking.

“I just wanted to apologize for yesterday,” He said as he finally looked at you. “I saw how much you were hurt by no one believing in you. And I should have been the last one to say that! I know how it feels to have no one think you’re capable…” At this he turned his head away again.

You stared at Firepaw in surprise. You didnt expect anyone to bother apologizing and you felt your heart swell at his kindness.

“Thank you for apologizing Firepaw, but I’ve already forgave all of you,” you purred at him. Firepaw looked at you with a smile, and visibly relaxed.

“Thank you, (y/n)” He said with a purr. He reached over and licked your head, and you two shared tongues as the sun rose. As cats started to wake up, you both decided to wake up the other apprentices so you could all start your day. Firepaw woke up Sandpaw, Dustpaw, and Graypaw. While you woke up Ravenpaw, as you seemed to be the only one that could wake him without scaring him. Softly you nudged the black cat until he tiredly opened his eyes.

“Rise and Shine sleepyhead,” you said with a smile. The black tom smiled at you as he got up and stretched. You and Ravenpaw chatted as you both walked to the sandy hollow, the others had already made their way there. While walking Ravenpaw also apologized about doubting you, and you told him it was fine, happy to hear him apologize.

Once you got there you noticed Sandpaw and Dustpaw were gone, while Graypaw, Firepaw, Redtail, and Tigerclaw were there waiting.

“Don’t waste time talking when you should’ve been the first one here, (y/n)!” Tigerclaw said with a growl. You lowered your head feeling a bit bad and Ravenpaw quickly made his way to Redtail.

“The apprentices are allowed to talk, Tigerclaw! It’s good for them to get along.” Tigerclaw looked annoyed at his former apprentice’s comment and let out a huff.

“There’s time for talking and then there’s time for training. Right now it’s time to train.”

“But-”

“We’re going to go patrolling today.” Tigerclaw said, cutting off Redtail. Redtail rolled his eyes in response. “(Y/n), make sure you pay close attention. This’ll be your first time going to the edges of the territory.”

You eagerly nodded, excited to start doing actual warrior activities.

“Ravenpaw, you will be going hunting with Firepaw, Lionheart, and I.” Ravenpaw visibly relaxed once he realized he wouldn’t have to be around Tigerclaw. “Graypaw, you will go with Tigerclaw and (y/n).” All the apprentices nodded as you all set off in your respective directions.

Chapter Text

Tigerclaw led the way, with you and Graypaw right behind him. You had already seen parts of the territory, being found at Sunningrocks, and the other apprentices had all told you bits and pieces about the place. While Redtail led the others towards Sunningrocks, Tigerclaw led you and Graypaw through the center of ThunderClan territory.

“We’ll be going to Fourtrees first, it’s where the clans meet when the moon is highest. The last one had been a few days before you arrived.”

You thought over Tigerclaw’s words, knowing that meant it’d be a little while before the next gathering. Since your little group were deep in ThunderClan territory you and Graypaw chatted, talking quietly so you’d still be alert to the sounds around you.

After walking for a while the thick forest opened up, and you stared in awe at the four oaks that sat at the center of the valley.

“This is fourtrees,” Tigerclaw said as you continued to eye the oaks.

“What do you think of it?” Graypaw asked, excitement in his voice.

“It’s amazing!” You peer down into the valley, wondering if you can spot anything. “Can we go down there?!” Your head snaps to Tigerclaw and he shakes his head.

“It’s good that you’re excited but we’re focusing on our borders today,” your fur deflates a little and you let out a sigh. “Okay Tigerclaw, where to now?” You ask, still full of curiosity about the territory. Tigerclaw smiles at you still being interested in exploring and starts to walk alongside the valley.

“We’ll walk along the edge of Fourtrees, it’ll keep us at the edge of our territory. North of Fourtrees is WindClan, Shadowclan shares the border with us. As we walk make sure to keep your wits about you.” You nod as Tigerclaw starts to briskly walk off, you and Graypaw having a little trouble keeping up with the pace he set.

As you follow the two you hear the sound of bushes rustling and you stop. You once again peer down into the valley, ears pricked as you wonder what was causing the noise. In a flash you see a creature leap out, a fox! Your fur bristles in alarm and you feel yourself tense. In your brain a die rolls and you see the number 9.

The fox charges at you, maw wide open, and you let out a battle cry. No turning back now. As it lunges you charge forward, tackling it. The momentum carries you both down the hill, and Graypaw and Tigerclaw let out yowls in alarm.

You and the fox are locked in battle, fur flying as you both claw and bite at each other. The fox frees itself from your grasp and digs it’s teeth into you from behind. You growl, refusing to scream out in pain and reach behind you to claw at its face. As you feel your claws sink in the fox lets out a yelp. As it backs off you turn to see Tigerclaw biting into its spine. It shakes him off before darting into the underbrush, Tigerclaw giving chase.

Graypaw runs up to you, inspecting you for wounds.

“Are you okay?!” He shouted in alarm, fur bristled in fear. You pushed yourself up and felt your legs trembling, the fear now catching up to you. Thinking of how stupid you were to try and fight the fox on your own. You felt your throat tighten and tears sting at your eyes. Inhaling deeply you willed yourself to calm down.

“Your neck is bleeding. Bad!” Graypaw says in a shaky voice as he looks at where the fox got a good bite.

“I’m fine Graypaw,” you said as you turned to give him a shaky smile. Your eyes widen in shock. Graypaw is freely crying as he stares at you, sniffling and not hiding the fear in his eyes.

“That fox could’ve killed you, ya know?” He said, voice uncharacteristically quiet. At that you felt the tears you were trying to hold back come full force and you leaned your head onto his shoulder.

“I know Graypaw, I…I don’t know why I charged at it like that, I should’ve ran,” you mumbled into his fur. You two comforted and calmed each other down as you both tried to collect yourselves.

“At least you can say you fought a fox, Sandpaw and Dustpaw can’t say they’ve done that!” Graypaw said after a while. His voice was still shaky as he tried to lighten the mood. You let out a soft chuckle as you thought of the two getting jealous. Graypaw purred, happy to make you laugh.

Tigerclaw soon reappeared, coming out of the underbrush.

“I caught the fox and gave it a good beating. It shouldn’t be trying to mess with ThunderClan cats anymore!” Tigerclaw spat, tail still lashing in irritation. He walked up to you and looked you over, most of your wounds were superficial, but the back of your neck caught his attention.

“We’ll continue showing you the territory another time, for now you need to go to Spottedleaf and get yourself checked.” You nodded your head, sad but knowing your wounds needed looked over. As you stood you felt tired, the adrenaline all gone. You were probably weak from bloodless as well. But you started walking, not wanting to show anymore weakness.

“Do you need help?” Graypaw asked.

“No thanks,” you replied.

Graypaw walked next to you, so close your shoulders were touching, while Tigerclaw took up the rear.

.

..

.

When you made it back to camp the clan was alarmed at seeing the blood on your fur. Graypaw escorted you to the med cat den, while Tigerclaw assured everyone you were fine, and reported what happened.

He couldn’t hide the pride in his voice as he stood on Higrock and told the clan what happened. How the fox charged, and instead of running you rushed to meet it. He was sure to mention how you put up a good fight, and gave it clawing in its face that was sure to leave a scar. Telling the cats if they ever seen a fox with a scar across its face it was the one you fought. And how the injuries the fox gave you wouldn’t even leave a scar. The cats listened attentively, and Redtail and the others came back just as he was finishing up. Firepaw and Ravenpaw were quick to wonder what had happened, worried about you and Graypaw. When they saw Graypaw come out of the med cat den Firepaw’s fur bristled in alarm and he ran to Graypaw.

“Where’s (y/n)?!”

“Hush, Firepaw!” Graypaw said in a loud whisper. Ravenpaw also came over, tail twitching in anxiety. “(Y/n) is in Spottedleaf’s den. They got in a fight with a fox but they’ll be fine.”

“Are you sure they’re okay? What if Spottedleaf overlooks something! We should-”

“That’s enough Firepaw, I know you’re worried about your friend but Spottedleaf is a capable medicine cat. Do not doubt her.”

The three apprentices looked in alarm at the source of the voice. It was Whitestorm. He had a stern look on his face, and Firepaw looked at his paws. Feeling guilty about doubting Spottedleaf.

“(Y/n) is in capable hands, let them rest” Whitestorm said as he ushered the three away from Spottedleaf’s den. They reluctantly followed, and Firepaw chanced a look to see Tigerclaw walking towards the med cat den.

.

..

.

During this you were being looked over by Spottedleaf. She looked over you to check for any other wounds besides your neck and then began to apply herbs. You didn’t know any of the things she was putting on the back of your neck. The only thing you knew about was cobwebs, which she wrapped around your neck to keep the medicine in place.

“There! Now I want you to rest here for now so I can keep an eye on your wound and make sure it doesn’t get infected.”

“What? How long am I gonna be here?!” You complained loudly. “I haven’t even finished exploring the territory. I don’t know all our borders yet!!” You complain as you flop on your nest.

“Careful! Don’t move around so much or the cobwebs will come loose!” Spottedleaf scolds you.

“Does it even matter? I’ll never become a warrior at this point!” You continue with your dramatics causing Spottedleaf to lightly laugh.

“You’ll be fine (y/n). Here,” Spottedleaf places some seeds in front of you. “Poppyseed, to help you relax and sleep.” You sigh before eating the seeds, and a few minutes later you let out a yawn and fall asleep.

Spottedleaf settled down in her nest, watching your sleeping form until a noise at the entrance to the den caught her attention.

Tigerclaw walked through, usual frown on his face and his shoulders stiff. Spottedleaf sighed, not wanting to deal with Tigerclaw’s attitude.

“Will they be fine?” Tigerclaw asked as he stopped in front of your sleeping form. Spottedleaf was surprised at how his eyes softened a little as he looked at you.

“They should be back in the apprentice’s den within a few days, Tigerclaw. I’m just keeping them here to make sure their wound heals properly” Spottedleaf responded. She saw Tigerclaw’s shoulders relax, and she was surprised, realizing that he seemed to actually care about you.

“(y/n) seemed a little shaken up from the experience, but overall fine. They seemed really upset they couldn’t finish learning the borders.” Spottedleaf said with a chuckle.

Tigerclaw smiled at hearing that and Spottedleaf perked up at the sight.

“Of course they’d be upset. No good warrior would want to be holed up in a medicine cat’s den when they could be serving their clan,” Tigerclaw said, the pride evident in his voice. He smiled at your sleeping form and then left. Taking his own advice.

Spottedleaf watched him leave then looked at you, feeling herself smile a little. In truth she had never really cared for Tigerclaw, seeing him as nothing but trouble. But from a distance she noticed how you brought out a better side of him. Thistleclaw, Tigerclaw’s now deceased mentor, had did nothing to teach Tigerclaw kindness. Spottedleaf thought back to the shooting star and the message it sent. She had only told Bluestar part of it, wanting more time to think of who the other half was about. Now she was sure that it was about you and Tigerclaw, and she wondered where you came from. Closing her eyes Spottedleaf thought of the prophecy StarClan had sent her.

‘Fire alone can save our clan, but a gift from the stars can save a heart’

Chapter Text

When you woke up you noticed Spottedleaf wasn’t in the den. Tiredly, you pushed yourself up and only then did you notice how stiff your neck felt. You lightly stretched it, trying to remove the feeling. You felt terrible, sleep troubling since you had no one to sleep next to. After your neck loosened up you slowly walked out the den. It was midday, the sun high in the sky. Which meant you slept a long time. You sighed and your stomach rumbled loudly. Sending a reminder that technically you didn’t eat for a whole day! Your brain went into panic mode, screaming at you to find some food. You looked around for the fresh kill pile. There it is the place it's always at of course! You start to walk towards it, wanting your stomach to shut up.

"WHAT do you think you’re doing?!" You heard a voice say in shock. You cringe, which causes your neck to hurt more. You turn to the voice to see Spottedleaf rushing towards you, herbs she had in her mouth dropped. She did not look happy.

“I told you to stay in the den!” She said sharply. You sighed and looked away.

“I’m just hungry Spotty, chill.”

“Spotty?! Are you…me?!” Spottedleaf said in shock as she pointed to herself with her paw.

“Yup, I’m you!” You say. You couldn’t help yourself. You heard some cats chuckling and turned your head to see a group of queens.

“You know what I meant (y/n)! Spotty is not my name! It’s Spotted. Leaf. Now back into the den!” When you didn’t listen Spottedleaf was quick to nudge you to get you moving. “Now.” You whined as you let the irritated med cat push you back towards your prison. Once in the den you went back to your nest and stared at it in annoyance.

Instead of laying down normally you decided to faceplant yourself into the nest, rear up in the air as you let out a frustrated groan.

“You haven’t been in the den for one whole day and yet you’re acting like you’ve been here a moon! Such behaviour is unfit for a warrior,” Spottedleaf scolded you. You turned your head to the side so you could properly speak.

“But Spotty-”

“Spotted. Leaf.”

“What’s wrong with nicknames?”

“What-names?”

“Nicknames, they’re like….shorter versions of your actual name?” You say as you sit up and turn to Spottedleaf fully. She tilts her head to the side in confusion.

“I don’t know where you come from, but our names are important. Chosen by our clanmates and leaders. To go by anything else is just…wrong” Spottedleaf responds with a shrug. “Just like your name, (y/n), it was chosen by Bluestar when she gave you the chance to join our clan. You should have pride in your name, they are something special. “Nicknames” could never have as much meaning.”

You stare at Spottedleaf and sigh, deciding not to tell her how many times you called Graypaw Fatpaw.

“You all really hyperfocus on tradition. There’s nothing wrong with mixing it up every once in a while ya know?”

“Traditions are what keep the clan strong, (y/n),” Spottedleaf said quietly. You notice how her mood seemed to shift.

You decided to let it go, knowing there was no way she’d tell you her thoughts.

“It’s time to look over you wound.” Spottedleaf said. You sigh and sit properly so she could unwrap the cobwebs and remove the medicine.

“How’s it look, doc?” You ask absentmindedly. You could feel Spottedleaf’s glare.

“It’s healing fine so far. And do I even want to know what a ‘doc’ is?”

“A doc is….huh, I don’t know?” You say in confusion. You knew doc was another word for….med cat? But where would you have heard it from? As Spottedleaf moved from behind you she saw the troubled look on your face.

“Are you alright, (y/n)?” You were snapped out of your thoughts by Spottedleaf, and you looked at her and gave a stiff nod of your head.

“Yea….just wishing I could remember where I came from.”

“I’m sure we’ll figure out in time, just rest for now and you’ll be back to the apprentice den soon enough. I have to go collect more herbs, I’ll tell someone to bring you prey from the fresh-kill pile.” You nod and purr at her words, grateful. You watched her leave and then started to clean yourself to pass time.

You were licking your paws to clean the back of your ears when you heard someone come into the den. You faced the entrance eagerly to see Tigerclaw. He was carrying a large pheasant and dropped it in front of you. You let out a thank you before grabbing the prey and eating. Tigerclaw sat in front of you, patiently waiting until you were done. Once you had your fill he finally spoke.

“Did Spottedleaf say how much longer you’ll be here?”

“I’m guessing maybe another day at most? Spotty said my neck is healing fine,” You turn you back to him to show your neck, “See.”

“I don’t see anything! You look completely fine, you shouldn’t be in here.” You could hear the irritation in Tigerclaw’s voice. “And why did you call her Spotty? That sounds like a kittypet name!”

“Uh….accident I guess?” You let out a nervous laugh, not wanting to hear another lecture. “Spott-uhdleaf, already told me about the importance of names please don’t lecture me!” You whined to your mentor. Tigerclaw looked at you and snorted.

“I’m your mentor if I want to lecture you it’s your job to keep your mouth shut and listen,” You let out a huff.

“Fine you meanie!” Tigerclaw chuckled at your outburst before ruffling the fur atop your head.

“I’ll talk to Spottedleaf, you will be leaving here tomorrow, so I hope you’re ready to train.”

“Of course!” You said happily.

“And one more thing, (y/n),” Your full attention was on Tigerclaw as he started to talk. “I’m proud of you, many cats would’ve faltered or ran when facing a fox. You did as a true warrior should and faced it head on. I’m proud to be your mentor.” Your heart swelled with pride as you stared at Tigerclaw, and he gave you a smile as he left.

You energetically kneaded your nest, any doubts you had about your actions fading. You know praise from Tigerclaw wasn’t to be taken lightly, and you couldn’t help how giddy you felt.

You passed time by cleaning yourself, and when Spottedleaf finally returned you looked at her happily. She smiled when she saw how good of a mood you were in and placed the herbs down before she started to talk.

“So, Tigerclaw hunted me down and demanded that you be free to continue your training tomorrow, but I think one more day would do you good.” You let out a whine but knew there’d be no fighting the med cat’s decision.

“If you think that’d be for the best Spottedleaf,” you said with a low murmur. She gave you a small smile as she began to sort the herbs. There was sudden noise at the entrance, and both you and Spottedleaf looked in alarm as Ravenpaw tumbled into the den, an amused Graypaw and worried Firepaw behind him.

“Do any of you need anything?” Spottedleaf asked in confusion, noticing that they all seemed fine. Ravenpaw stared at his paws, tail tucked under him in nervousness. Graypaw rolled his eyes and gave Ravenpaw a soft shove before speaking up.

“We wanted to know if (y/n) could come back to the apprentice den!” Graypaw eagerly announced. Both you and Spottedleaf looked startled at the request and Spottedleaf let out a huff. “(Y/n) is not leaving the den yet, I want to make sure-”

“But they need to!” Graypaw interrupted with a yowl. Spottedleaf glared in annoyance and Ravenpaw’s shoulders hunched as he continued to stare at his paws. Firepaw walked over to him and lightly tapped his shoulder with his tail, causing Ravenpaw’s head to jerk up. Firepaw gave him a reassuring smile and Ravenpaw finally spoke.

“I…uh..couldn’t sleep last night…because (y/n) wasn’t there….”

“They usually sleep right next to each other, and Ravenpaw was constantly shifting and waking up. I think he was having bad dreams,” Firepaw finished for the shy cat.

You looked startled at this, and Ravenpaw went back to staring at his paws. While you, Firepaw, and Graypaw looked at Spottedleaf.

Spottedleaf looked at you with an unreadable expression, but you were sure there was annoyance there.

“You’re gonna be a lot of trouble aren’t you?” You stare at the ground in nervousness, not wanting to be scolded. “First I had to deal with Tigerclaw, and now you three!” Spottedleaf stared at the three apprentices sharply. “But I guess this is StarClan’s way of saying that you’re fine, (y/n). So you’re free to go.” Four heads looked at Spottedleaf in shock, before an excited Graypaw jumped high in the air.

“Yes! So this means (y/n) is free to train tomorrow?!” Graypaw asked excitedly.

“Yes,” Spottedleaf responded with a light laugh, not able to help herself as she saw the joy on the apprentice’s faces. Graypaw started to eagerly nudge you, and you allowed yourself to be pushed by your friend while laughing.

“But make sure you come back here if you have any problems!”

“I will Spottedleaf, thank you!”

The four of you made your way out the den and you were surprised when Ravenpaw walked to your side and roughly pressed himself up against you. You heard the soft rumbles of his purr and you couldn’t help but nuzzle him.

You then proceeded to roughly press back against him, almost toppling him over, but he pushed back just as hard and you two began to giggle as you stumbled over the place. Graystripe, never the one to be left out of fun, swiped at your back legs, causing you and Ravenpaw to fall over. He then quickly jumped to the side of Firepaw, and as you and Ravenpaw looked at the two Graypaw pointed at Firepaw as if he was the culprit.

“Firepaw! How could you do such a thing? I’m hurt!” You gasped as you put your paw on your chest.

“You think that’s bad?” Firepaw responded with a laugh. The orange tabby then pounced on you, taking you by surprise. The both of you proceeded to battle, laughing as you play fought. Ravenpaw let out quiet giggles, while Graypaw loudly laughed at the two of you.

“What do you think your doing?” All of you immediately quieted down, turning to face the cat who spoke. It was Lionheart.

“Oh, we were just playing Lionheart, Spottedleaf said (y/n) was good enough to train again!” Graypaw eagerly told Lionheart the news, and the older tom smiled at the four of you.

“Well I’m happy to hear that, (y/n). Tigerclaw told us of how well you fought the fox. I’m sure I speak for everyone when I say we’re eager to see what type of warrior you’ll become,” Lionheart said. You felt your chest puff out with pride, and your three friends were quick to praise you too.

“But it is late, and you four should be sleeping. Save that energy for tomorrow,” Lionheart said with a smile.

“Yes Lionheart” all of you said at once. The four of you proceeded to race to the apprentice den, Ravenpaw winning. As you all entered you heard a hiss and turned to see Sandpaw and Dustpaw. The two looked annoyed, but you just shrugged it off as them being sleepy. You went over to your favourite spot in the back. Ravenpaw bounded over to you, excited to have his sleeping buddy back, and curled up against you. You smiled and closed your eyes as Graypaw and Firepaw settled down, Ravenpaw’s purrs lulling you to sleep.

Chapter Text

A week had passed since you were allowed to leave Spottedleaf’s den, and there was a big difference in how some of the clan cats viewed you. It was almost overwhelming how they looked to you with respect in their eyes. You didn’t care much for the sudden attention and kinda wished they went back to looking down on you.

Sandpaw seemed to have a problem with you. Ever since you returned to the apprentice den she went out of her way to ignore you. Dustpaw already ignored you so he didn’t bother you much, but there were times you and Sandpaw would have little talks, and it hurt that she seemed to dislike you now.

And finally, Darkstripe. Like Dustpaw he used to ignore you but now there were times you felt his heated glare, and to have the ire of a warrior had you wary.

“Pay attention!”

Tigerclaw’s sharp voice snapped you out of your thoughts and you barely had time to dodge Graypaw’s attack.

Right.

You were training! Now was not the time to get lost in thought.

You made a quick comeback, ramming into Graypaw at full speed and making him topple over. You tried to pin him but he kicked you off with his back paws, causing you to land on your back. He quickly pinned you, and try as you might you could not get free. You tapped your paw on the ground twice, signaling you give up, and the gray tom got off of you.

“That was a good try, (y/n)!” Graypaw said.

“Good if you’re interested in being crowfood!” Tigerclaw hissed. You cringed and looked at the ground, knowing you were about to be scolded.

“I hope fighting one fox didn’t go to your head,” Tigerclaw spat.

“No Tigerclaw, I’m sorry and I’ll be sure to succeed next time,” you said with a bow of your head. Tigerclaw decided to back off, sensing your determination.

“Then prove it. Graypaw, (y/n), again!”

.

..

.

By the time training was over you were sore. Ever since the fox battle Tigerclaw had been pushing you harder. You knew your mentor had high hopes for you, you just wished he’d ease up. You quietly made your way to Sunningrocks.

A surprise awaited you there. Across the river was Silverpaw! You eagerly started to walk towards the river but halted when you saw a few other cats appear. Three warriors and another apprentice. Silverpaw looked startled to see you, and you stood on the sunningrocks, not sure what to do.

“So ThunderClan sends apprentices to patrol their borders now! Are they that weak?” One of the cats said, her voice full of mock.

“Or maybe they think we’re weak!” Another hissed. “Maybe we should set an example with this apprentice!”

“Or, and this is just an idea so don’t get your panties in a twist!” You started.

You took note of their expressions, which let you know that panties was probably not a word the clan cats use.

Wait, what was a note? And panties?

You shook your head as you made your way to a rock being hit by the sun, and finally started talking again, “This apprentice just wanted to use the Sunning. Rocks. you know, what it’s named for.”

Silverpaw and the warrior yet to speak started laughing, while the other apprentice looked horrified.

“You looking for a fight?” The cat that had spoke after the she-cat hissed at you as he jumped onto one of the rocks in the river.

In response you jumped up, fur prickling with anxiety at the thought of fighting a full fledged warrior. You were not Firepaw and you had no collar to save you when a cat decided they wanted to rip your throat out!

Huh.

Maybe you should get one of those?

“Piketooth, stop!” The warrior that had been laughing with Silverpaw yowled. You were snapped out of your thoughts of getting a shiny collar that sparkled and suddenly remembered that you were being threatened by a warrior!

‘Pay attention!’

Tigerclaw’s words echoed through your head. You really needed to take that to heart.

The tom, Piketooth, snapped his head back to the other cat, glare on his face.

“You’ll let a ThunderClan apprentice show such disrespect?!” Piketooth spat at the other tom.

“Does that cat look like that much of a threat to you?” The tom said, his voice full of amusement.

Piketooth’s tail fluffed in embarrassment and he took one last glance at you before jumping back over to his clanmates and stalking off in irritation.

“Piketooth, wait!” The she-cat warrior called to the tom as she ran after him. “Come along Vixenpaw,” you heard her voice call faintly. The other apprentice was quick to follow the voice and you were left with Silverpaw and the tom.

The two just sat there and stared at you, not making any noise. Silverpaw gave you a wave with her paw. You sat down confused and gave a small wave in return.

“Okay they’re gone!” The tom had blurted out after a little while.

“Finally,” Silverpaw almost screamed. “Uncle, this is the cat I told you about! Their name is (y/n),” Silverpaw said excitedly.

“I figured,” Silverpaw’s uncle responded. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a brazen apprentice! …besides you of course,” he added, looking at Silverpaw. Silverpaw’s chest puffed out with pride and she quickly bounded across stones to you.

“(Y/N), that’s my uncle, Oakheart! He’s really nice so you dont have to be worried.” You looked at the tom and greeted him with a wave of your paw and a smile.

You were startled when the tom jumped over as well, wondering how you were going to hide the scent of a full-grown tom on ThunderClan territory.

“I want to apologize for Piketooth’s behaviour. He’s going to be retiring soon and is itching to get one last fight in.” Oakheart bowed his head, and out of respect you did the same.

“It’s fine, thanks for stopping him!” You responded with a smile on your face.

Oakheart smiled back and sniffed the air, causing you and Silverpaw to watch him curiously.

“I sense no other ThunderClan cats, and I’ll make sure no RiverClan cat bothers you two. Silverpaw make sure you’re back in camp before sundown, and (y/n), make sure you don’t smell of RiverClan when you go to your camp. Got it?” He then bounded off, quickly disappearing into RiverClan territory before either of you could respond.

“He’s. so. cool!” You excitedly announced with a jump. Now you were kinda wishing you had an uncle like that. Like yea the ThunderClan warriors were nice but they weren’t chill.

“I know! I’m so lucky he’s my mentor!” Silverpaw spoke with happiness. “Speaking of mentors, how’s Tigerclaw and your training going?”

“I fought a fox!”

"You what?! Deets. Now.

You let out a gasp at Silverpaw’s choice of words. Becoming a bit emotional. “Did you just say deets?!”

“Yup, now talk!”

.

..

.

“And I tried being strong but then I saw Graypaw crying so I started crying!” You spoke as Silverpaw listened.

“Awww, he sounds so sweet!” Silverpaw said with a giggle.

“He’s really nice! And then Tigerclaw came back and we made our way back to camp! While I was in Spottedleaf’s- oh, that’s our medicine cat! Den, Tigerclaw was telling everyone how good I fought!”

“I wish I was there! I bet that fox will be too horrified to show its face anytime soon!” Silverpaw said. Voice filled with excitement.

“You bet!”

A ravens cawing alerted the both of you and that’s when you noticed the sun going down. It would be night soon.

“Oops! I really gotta go!” Silverpaw quickly bounded onto one of the rocks in the river before going stiff. You looked at her in alarm before she let out a huff and turned to face you.

“But first we need fish!” You chuckled, relieved that there was no trouble.

Just like last time you watched as Silverpaw caught a big fish. And the two of you started eating when she brought it back to you.

“Hey, (y/n),” Silverpaw started, grabbing your attention. “How about next time I try teaching you how to fish? I think you’ll be really good at it!”

“I think I’d like that, fish taste really good!” You responded in-between mouthfuls of food. The two of you continued to eat, no longer talking and enjoying a comfortable silence.

Once finished you cleaned your paws and nuzzled Silverpaw, thanking her for the food. She happily nuzzled you back before saying goodbye and running off.

When Silverpaw disappeared you began to clean your fur, doing your best to remove any scent of RiverClan on you. Once you were satisfied you made your way back to camp.

You felt relaxed. Thanking the gods-er, StarClan for a friend like Silverpaw. So many cats seemed dead set on following the rules and traditions, so it was nice having another free spirit as a friend.

Chapter Text

Tigerclaw finally let you go after you bested Graypaw. He had a feeling that the apprentice went easy on you out of pity and to say he was irritated was an understatement. He wanted you to win by your own merit not because someone decided to show pity. That word made Tigerclaw want to claw something. It was a word he hated with a passion.

When he dismissed you and Graypaw you started to walk off in the direction of Sunningrocks. Tigerclaw noticed how fond you seemed of that place, as you made your way there anytime you could. The thought of that made him frown. But the Sunningrocks was where you were found, so he figured it probably gave you a sense of comfort.

Tigerclaw decided to go hunting to cool off and let loose some of his frustration. As he started to hunt he zoned out. Nothing mattered besides him and his prey.

He didn’t realize how much time had passed until he was on the outskirts of ThunderClan territory, the stench of twolegs snapping him out of his focused state. He picked up the squirrel he just killed and decided it was time to head back. The irritation was gone, for now. He knew he’d get irritated again later on.

He started to make his way back to camp, digging up the prey he hunted. Mouth and back both full he carefully walked, not wanting to drop anything. As the sky darkened he saw you running back to camp, coming from Sunningrocks. Your damp fur caused his eyes to narrow in suspicion. Thoughts started to cloud his mind again. How much you enjoyed Sunningrocks. He shook his head. It was a place many cats liked, you going there was no different.

‘But why was (Y/N’s) fur wet?’ A voice hissed in his mind.

You could’ve easily slipped in the water, you were clumsy!

‘But what if they didn’t? (y/n) was found near Sunningrocks, what if they’re a spy’

Tigerclaw let out a hiss, the prey he was carefully carrying falling out of his mouth. At that he snarled, shaking his head, wanting that voice to go away.

“Are you alright Tigerclaw?” Tigerclaw snapped his head around, the force of his movement knocking some prey off his back, his claws unsheathing as he looked for the source of the voice. It took a moment for him to realize the words said to him, and the cat who said it. Whitestorm.

“I’m fine,” Tigerclaw gruffed. Whitestorm walked up to him, stopping at his side and picking up the prey that fell off Tigerclaw’s back and carefully putting it back.

“How fine can you be if you’re dropping your prey? Or are you that scared of me?”

“Why would I be scared of a warrior like you? You’d be crowfood if we ever fought!”

“Are you sure about that? From what I remember, when we were appre-”

“Shut Up!” Tigerclaw nearly yowled. Whitestorm started laughing at his outburst and Tigerclaw turned his head away, huffing in embarrassment.

“Just relax Tigerclaw. We were denmates since birth, I can tell when something is bothering you.” Whitestorm looked at the sky as he considered his next words. “Just…remember I’m here if you ever need anything.”

Tigerclaw hissed at him. “I don’t-”

“Need my pity. Yeah, yeah Tigerclaw. Everyone in the clan knows you’re our strongest warrior. Just relax. Let me help you.” There was silence as Tigerclaw glared at Whitestorm, he did not need help. Tigerclaw’s glare hardened when Whitestorm’s eyes lit up, knowing the white tom was planning something.

“As a matter of fact….I can help you right now!”

Before Tigerclaw could respond Whitestorm took some of the prey on Tigerclaw’s back into his mouth and started to briskly walk off. Tigerclaw’s fur bristled at Whitestorm’s boldness but he couldn’t stay angry for long when the white tom turned to look back at him. He saw the amusement in Whitestorm’s eyes and despite trying he just couldn’t get angry at him.

Tigerclaw picked up the prey that he dropped from his mouth and started walking, Whitestorm slowing down so they could walk side by side. Tigerclaw always found it amusing that a cat with such a calming presence had storm in his name. The two walked back to camp in a comfortable silence.

.

..

.

When they entered camp Tigerclaw could feel a gaze on him. He turned his head to see Darkstripe. He didn’t look at him for long, as Whitestorm came through the camp entrance and stood next to him, obscuring his view of the dark tom. Tigerclaw started to walk to the fresh-kill pile, Whitestorm right next to him. He didn’t notice how Darkstripe’s eyes darkened when Whitestorm appeared, or how Whitestorm met Darkstripe’s gaze with a light glare.

As they were putting the prey in the fresh-kill pile some of the cats looked to them with awe at the amount of prey, making Tigerclaw’s chest puff out with pride. He took himself a large squirrel and walked away from the pile before settling down to eat. Whitestorm soon joined him, and upon noticing that Whitestorm was eating a bird he caught, Tigerclaw opened his mouth.

“Yes, yes, thank you for the meal, oh great Tigerclaw!” Whitestorm spoke before a word could get out of Tigerclaw’s mouth. Whitestorm chuckled when he saw Tigerclaw’s face, scrunched up like he just smelled something unpleasant. Deciding there was no point in responding Tigerclaw started to eat.

“Why do you think (y/n) likes Sunningrocks so much?” Tigerclaw blurted out after taking a few bites of his food. Whitestorm took a moment to consider Tigerclaw’s words.

“Are you worried about their loyalty or do you just not like how much time they spend there? I admit their scent is always there each time I patrol, more than any other cats.”

“It’s….their loyalty. What if they’re a RiverClan spy?” Hearing that Whitestorm sat up straight, looking Tigerclaw in the eyes.

“Even if they were one I think we have nothing to worry about. (Y/n) enjoys their time here and has become a vital member of our clan. They’re close with the apprentices and I think they’re too emotional to try and betray clanmates.” Tigerclaw considered Whitestorm’s words before nodding his head.

“You’re right. I’m just over thinking things.” Tigerclaw quickly gulped down the rest of his meal then walked off to the warriors den, ready to get some sleep. He walked into the den and went to his nest, kneading it before lying down. He let out a huff, knowing what would happen as soon as he closed his eyes. Regardless he needed to at least try getting some rest.

He took a look around him and saw the other warriors in the den sound asleep. His lips curled in disdain as he thought of how easy they had it. Lying his head down Tigerclaw slowly drifted off to sleep. Lionheart’s light snoring helping.

.

..

.

When Tigerclaw opened his eyes he was no longer in the warriors den. Instead he was in the open, tall trees towering over him while glowing mushrooms grew through cracks in the hard ground. The air was heavy enough to smother a weaker cat, but it was a heaviness that Tigerclaw knew and usually welcomed.

But not tonight.

He started to walk deeper into the dense forest, it was always the same, the direction he took didn’t matter as his end destination would never change.

He came upon a small clearing where no trees grew, but the branches and leaves of the surrounding trees still blocked any sort of sky light from reaching. In the clearing a group of cats sat. He looked around, frowning as the cats eyed him.

“Tigerclaw.” One of the cats spoke, her voice reminding him of a bitter leaf-bare wind. She was at the base of one of the trees, faded pelt almost completely blending in while sharp yellow eyes stared him down.

“What do you want, Mapleshade?” Tigerclaw questioned the ancient feline.

“You know what we want,” another cat hissed, his bad breath wafting around the clearing. Tigerclaw growled in disgust, nose curling at the smell.

“Why have you yet to bring your apprentice?” Mapleshade questioned.

‘Because they’d die just from smelling Maggottail’s breath!’ Tigerclaw screamed internally.

“I will bring them when I feel they’re ready.”

“Didn’t you say the same about Redtail?” A cat spat. It was Silverhawk. “And now look where he is, a deputy that obeys StarClan! Just imagine what we could have accomplished by now if we had a deputy on our side!”

“Don’t make me laugh!” Tigerclaw spat back. “Thistleclaw was your apprentice and you didn’t bother trying to help him become deputy!”

Silverhawk snarled at Tigerclaw, unsheathing his claws as his fur bristled.

“Do you forget who you speak to, Tigerclaw?”

“I can ask you the same thing. You lot need my help!” A cacophony of hisses rose around the clearing at Tigerclaw’s bold words. A few of the dark forest cats standing with hackles raised. Tigerclaw stood his ground, tail held high, fur bristling. He wasn’t going to back down to these cats.

“Now is the perfect time to bring your apprentice,” another cat spoke up. It was Thistleclaw, Tigerclaw’s former mentor. “Are you scared? Is your apprentice weak?”

“(Y/n) is NOT weak!” Tigerclaw hissed.

When Thistleclaw approached his former apprentice, face twisted into a snarl, Tigerclaw was hit with anxiety, a feeling he hadn’t felt in a while. He knew what Thistleclaw was going to say next, the very the words he said to you that morning being thrown in his face.

“Then prove it!”

Chapter Text

When you woke up the first thing you did was go to the fresh-kill pile, an embarrassed huff coming from your mouth when your stomach started rumbling. You hope no one noticed. At the fresh-kill pile a plump grouse was atop everything, light hitting it at the perfect angle to make it appear like it was glowing. That grouse was definitely demanding to be eaten. And who were you to say no?

With the grouse in your mouth you found a place to sit down and eat. As you enjoyed your meal you looked around the camp, gaze landing on Whitestorm and Spottedleaf. The two were sitting outside the medicine cat den, talking. A grimace was on the Spottedleaf's face as she talked, while Whitestorm looked upset. Was a cat sick? Or was Spottedleaf having trouble finding herbs? Whitestorm suddenly turned his head, and for a moment your eyes locked with the warrior. His amber eyes seemed filled with sadness, and for some reason it felt directed towards you . You snapped your head away, suddenly having an interest in the intricate patterns on the grouse you were eating.

.

..

.

It had been some days since you last seen Silverpaw. You tried visiting the Sunningrocks anytime you had the chance, hoping to see your friend again. Or at least her uncle. You were sure he would be kind enough to tell her you said hi. But you were always unlucky, and instead would spend time soaking up the sun.

When it came to training Tigerclaw continued to push you as usual, although he seemed to be constantly stressed. Ever since you had your fight with Graypaw you no longer trained with the other apprentices. Now it was just you and Tigerclaw, and fighting Tigerclaw was not fun. He insisted on fighting with claws out! At first you didn't believe him, but that quickly changed when he almost clawed your side off .

But today was different. You finally had a new training partner! Exciting! Except it wasn't. The cat he brought for you to train with? Darkstripe.

You still felt uneasy around the tom, unsure on why he seemed to hate you. But not wanting to cause any problems or earn a lecture about how 'Your mentor knows what's best for you', you decide to keep your mouth shut. Instead scowling at Darkstripe as a form of silent protest.

"Remember what I taught you, (y/n)," Tigerclaw's voice snapped you out of your thoughts. "Right now Darkstripe is from an enemy clan, do not hold back."

You nodded your head, although you were filled with anxiety. Darkstripe always looked at you like he wanted to skin you alive, now he had permission!

Tigerclaw stepped back, and you and Darkstripe started to circle each other. You hoped to see the die roll in your head again, hoping to have some sort of idea on how well you could fight the warrior. But no die came, and you glumly accepted that you'd have to just see the end result.

Darkstripe made the first move, lunging at you you with maw wide open. The only thing you saw were the fangs of that fox, so intent on killing you.

You narrowly dodged his attack, and since you were so close to him quickly countered. You claws dug into his haunches, blood and fur getting caught under them. Before he could do anything else you rammed into him, putting all your weight on his newly injured leg. Darkstripe hissed and fell over, while you jumped away. Fur bristled and tail raised, still on guard.

Darkstripe looked at you balefully, while Tigerclaw's chest puffed out with pride.

"Good job, (y/n)!" Despite feeling sick as your mind focused on the feeling of another cat's blood under your claws, you gave Tigerclaw a smile. Tigerclaw then looked at Darkstripe, "You were so easily downed by an apprentice, do you really deserve to call yourself a warrior?" Tigerclaw hissed. Darkstriple flinched, you winced. That was so unnecessary. Yeah Darkstripe made you uncomfortable but he didn't deserve that !

"I'm sure he wasn't using his full strength on me! I'm still an apprentice and-"

"Hah! I doubt it," Tigerclaw sneered as he interrupted you. "That's enough training , for now you can rest (y/n). We'll be training more later so don't overwork yourself." You nodded although you were sure Tigerclaw didn't notice. As soon as he was done talking he seemed to get lost in thought, walking off without sparing you or Darkstripe a second glance.

You turned your focus to Darkstripe. The warrior was glaring at the ground, and you were sure if he could he'd be burning that ground with his gaze alone. You took a look at the wound you gave him before walking off, searching for cobwebs. After swiping a few you made your way back to Darkstripe, who was still in the same spot as before, still glaring at the ground. You dropped the cobwebs in front of his paws before backing up to give him space.

"Uh....thanks for training with me Darkstripe. Tigerclaw is just mean like that sometimes, I'm sure he didn't mean it!" You said, hoping to make the warrior feel better.

"You and I both know he doesn't say things he doesn't mean! I've known him longer than you, don't forget," Darkstripe spat at you. Your mood deflated even more at Darkstripe's response, and you just nodded your head.

"Well I'm sure if Tigerclaw's words held much meaning you wouldn't be a warrior right now, everyone else sees that you're capable." After saying your piece you walked off, wanting to get the blood from under your paws. Unknown to you Darkstripe's eyes softened a little as he watched you leave.

.

..

.

As you walked through the forest you were self concious about the blood under you claws, hoping that it didn't leave a trail. The first puddle you sighted had you running over, quickly dipping your paws in to remove the blood. You double and triple checked your claws, and when you couldn't see blood, cleaned them one more time just to make sure. Guilt overcame you as you stared at your paws. You weren't a violent cat! Anytime you would fight Tigerclaw you would sheathe your claws before they made contact. Hurting a clanmate was the last thing you ever wanted to do.... but the look in Darkstripe's eyes had reminded you of that fox...

"(Y/n)! Are you alright?!" You jumped as a voice startled you out of your thoughts, looking up to see Ravenpaw and Firepaw. Faces filled with worry.

"I'm fine?" You said with a tilt to your head.

"But...the look on your face..." Ravenpaw's tail twisted back and forth in anxiety.

"The look? What do you mean?"

"You look sick," Firepaw spoke up, "Do you need to see Spottedleaf?" You couldn't help your smile, heart melting at the concern your friends showed. You instantly felt better just being around them.

"I'm fine, just a little tired from training. It's been tougher lately! Besides, even if I was sick I wouldn't be going to Spottedleaf with you Firepaw, I know you just want an excuse to see her!" Firepaw let out an offended gasp as Ravenpaw accidentally snorted, the shy cat covering his face as he tried to hold back his laughter.

"Really?! That's low (y/n), why would I want to see Spottedleaf?!" Your lighthearted jab had the intended effect, as the two no longer were worrying over you.

"Oh please, Graypaw told me all about how you were looking at her, like a lovestruck kit!"

"Not true!" Firepaw growled. "Next time I see that overgrown mess of fur we're fighting!"

"We can worry about Graypaw and your crush later, Firepaw!" Ravenpaw suddenly spoke up, causing both you and Firepaw to look at him in shock.

"You too, Ravenpaw?!"

Ravenpaw covered his mouth and turned his head away, his body shaking as he quietly laughed. Firepaw let out a hmph as he sat down, obviously pouting. You couldn't help but shake your head as some more laughs left you.

"I've been training so hard lately I haven't had time to hang out with any of you", you started speaking, getting their attention, "is there anything you two would like to do?"

The previous topic was completely forgotten as your two friends brightened up at the question, Ravenpaw speaking up.

"We can!...uh,...race, hunt, train, eat???" Ravenpaw said, naming all the things that crossed his brain in rapid succession. "Oh! how about tree climbing!"

"That sounds good to me"

"Yea!"

The three of you began looking through the trees, deciding on an oak with a trunk so high you couldn't see the top.

"Ok the first one to-"

"The first one to do what?!" The new voice caused all of you to turn around, startled, as Graystripe came in the clearing through a bush.

"Wait...you two are hanging out with (y/n).....WITHOUT ME?!" You, Ravenpaw, and Firepaw, all cringed at Graypaw's screech, as a hiss sounded from near him. All the prey in Thunderclan had to be hiding after hearing that!

Graypaw ran over to the three of you, looking genuinely upset. Lionheart, who was rubbing his ear, and Whitestorm came right behind him. An unhappy Sandpwa trailing behind.

"We didn't mean to! You were still training with Lionheart and we didn't want to interrupt your training!" Firepaw explained.

"....Fine...I guess I forgive you all", Graypaw huffed as he turned his head away in a snooty manner. You rolled your eyes while Lionheart laughed at his apprentice.

"You can take a break, Graypaw." The gray apprentice visibly perked at this news, even his fur puffing out in excitement.

'That fur moves like he's in a Studio Ghibli film....' you thought absentmindedly, only realizing you had no clue what a 'Studio Ghibli film' was. You tilted your head to the side in confusion, just what was up with your brain?

Your mind only came back into focus when Whitestorm called your name, causing you to look at him.

"We haven't seen you lately, how is your training going? Tigerclaw isn't pushing you too hard is he?" Whitestorm's voice was filled with concern, and you had a feeling he wanted to ask more than that.

"I'm doing fine, Tigerclaw's training has been harder than usual but it's nothing I can't handle!" You smiled at Whitestorm, and he gave a smile in return, but the worry in his eyes didn't go away. you wondered if you should tell him about Tigerclaw wanting you to use your claws.

"Why don't you join them Sandpaw?" Whitestorm turned to his apprentice, who shifted uncomfortable at the question.

"I'd rather train, Whitestorm."

Whitestorm shook his head in response, "Spending time with your denmates is an important part of apprenticeship, but we'll talk more about that later." He made his way to the bushes the group originally came from, disappering from sight as Sandpaw followed him.

You started to doubt your thoughts, wondering if it was actually Sandpaw's reluctance towards hanging out with any of you that had him worried. You were pulled from your thoughts when Lionheart started speaking, telling the four of you to have fun before walking off.

"So, what are we doing?" Graypaw asked excitedly. You decided to put your worries to the side for now.

.

..

.

The four of you started to make your way back to camp as the sun set, all of you tired. You were sure not to overwork yourself, remembering what Tigerclaw said. You wondered what he had planned, but figured it was going to take place tomorrow since it was getting late.

"(y/n)!" You stopped when you heard your mentor calling you, turning your head to see him coming from the camp entrance.

"Go on without me," you told your friends as you started walking towards your mentor. "Do you need anything Tigerclaw?"

"It's time for more training, follow me."

Together the two of you left camp, Tigerclaw leading the way.

Chapter Text

You followed Tigerclaw into the forest, wondering where you'd be training today. Your tail swished anxiously as you wondered if you'd be stuck fighting Darkstripe again.

"Listen closely (y/n), tonight you're going to be training in a place known as the Dark Forest," You opened your mouth to speak but closed it when Tigerclaw gave a flick of his tail. "Do not let your guard down around these cats, do you understand?" 

You gave a nod, realizing a second later that Tigerclaw couldn't see your head. "I understand Tigerclaw." A frown was on your face as you wondered who these cats were, and why no one else mentioned this 'Dark Forest'. The two of you soon came to a bush, and when Tigerclaw went inside and sat down you tilted your head in confusion. 

"The only way to get there is by sleeping, once you're there make sure you stay by my side." Hearing the explanation made you want to scratch your head. Why couldn't you just sleep in the apprentice den? But there was no point in questioning Tigerclaw so you joined him in the bush, sleep coming fast thanks to your earlier activities.

.

..

.

When you woke up the first thing you noticed was how thick the air was. You started to breathe heavily, gasping for air as everything seemed to weigh you down. Your legs gave out and try as might, you couldn't lift yourself up. The first thought that came to your brain was how strong the gravity was in this place. Your lungs constricted as you felt the blood travelling down to your legs, and the pressure of the air hurt so much. It felt as if you had the world on your shoulders! And was the pain coming from your bones all in your mind or real?  No, it had to be real, it felt as if they'd snap any second!

"Calm down," your thoughts were interrupted by a familiar voice. Forcing your head to turn you looked at Tigerclaw, eyes wide with fear as your lungs tried to fill with air. "It's all in your head, fight it. You are not weak!"

You grit your teeth even though it felt as if they might break under pressure at any second. Having no other option you closed your eyes and repeated Tigerclaw's words in your head.

'It's all in my head, fight it, fightitfightitfightit!'

You were suddenly able to take a big breath of air, shooting up and feeling wobbly as vertigo hit you hard. You stumbled backwards, Tigerclaw putting himself behind you to keep you from falling. He kept you upright as you tried to gather yourself, legs shaking and head hurting. When you finally trusted your legs to move you looked to your mentor, "I'm Ready." No, you really weren't, but Tigerclaw didn't need to know that! 

Tigerclaw gave a smile and with a flick of his tail signaled for you to follow. "I knew you could do it!" The tom said with pride as the two of you walked. You still felt queasy but was just relieved that it didn't feel like this place was going to squash you. The air was still heavy, but tolerable, and slowly your bones stopped aching.

No longer immobilized you started to take in your surroundings. Looking up, you could see no sky, only tree branches stretching so far that nothing but blackness remained.  Despite the darkness above there was still light, a gentle blue glow coming from shrooms that dotted the ground and trees, along with fireflies that floated lazily in the air. Although you couldn't see any you could hear the scuttling of insects, spiders and centipedes the first things to come to mind.

' Spiders aren't insects!'  Your brain suddenly threw at you. But if they weren't then what were they? 

 The ground randomly went between harsh rock and a slimy substance that squished between your paws. Overall you felt you would actually feel comfortable in this place if it wasn't for the smell . The stench of damp, dark places, filled with mold and rot. You had originally guessed the softness under your paws was from moss, you hope it's from moss. 

As for the smell of rot? You had no idea where it could be coming from. The forest had an eerie quiet to it, and there was no prey to be seen.

Studying the trees you took notice of a black sap slowly dripping from a tree and down onto a mushroom that seemed to be growing from it. Curiosity took over and you walked closer to the tree, but once close you quickly flinched and backed away. That sap, that's where the smell of rot was coming from! You quickly ran back to Tigerclaw, who had paused to watch you wander. Your stomach churned. You were definitely not going to stray from his side again!

The forest finally opened up into a clearing, but the branches of the trees still stretched above, blocking the sky. A group of cats were there, some easy to see, but others?  You were squinting and tilting your head to try and get a better look. Why were they see-through?

"So this is your apprentice?" A gray-white tom spoke. He had extremely spiky fur and you wondered if it worked like porcupine quills. He was clearly not impressed with you.

"Is there a problem, Thistleclaw?" Tigerclaw growled at the cat.

"That weakling could barely stand just a few minutes ago! And you think they're worth anything?" A hiss came from Tigerclaw as he glared at the cat.

"If you two start arguing....," another cat hissed. You looked around for the source of the voice. But nothing was in the direction it came from. You looked at all the cats in the clearing, and even turned around to make sure there wasn't a cat behind you, but still, nothing. 

"Over here little one," the voice spoke with a chuckle. You looked in the original direction the voice came from, and saw faint movement. As the cat came closer you had an easier time seeing them, their golden eyes standing out the most.

"I am Mapleshade," the cat's whisper like voice sent a chill down your spine. From her sharp yellow eyes, to her voice, to her movement, it all made one thing come to mind. Snake.

You backed away on instinct, placing yourself behind Tigerclaw where it was safe. The cat sneered as she looked at you, sharp teeth clear despite how faded the rest of her was, "Are you scared, (y/n)?" Tigerclaw tensed at the question, and turned his head to look at you, the cats waiting for an answer.

"I'm not scared, just...wasn't expecting to see ghosts? Ya'll are ghosts right?" Mapleshade hummed in response.

"Well, (y/n), you're here because we think you're worth training." Mapleshade walked towards you, pushing Tigerclaw out the way so she could stand in front of you. "You'll learn important things here, things that StarClan is too cowardly to share."

This place still made you uneasy, Mapleshade's piercing gaze sending off alarm bells in your head, but you couldn't help your curiosity.

"What are those things?" You asked with a tilt to your head.

"How to properly fight," Mapleshade raised one of her paws and unsheathed her claws, causing you to look down at them, "defeat any enemy that dares cross your path." 

You backed away from Mapleshade a little, and opened your mouth to speak, "I don't think-"

" Tigerclaw ," Mapleshade interrupted, "is the respected cat he is today thanks to my help. If you have what it takes you can be just like him."

Your gut told you to run and never look back, this wasn't worth it. But Tigerclaw... there wasn't a single cat that didn't have respect for him. No cat ignored his presence, if these cats were responsible for that then maybe....

"Where do I start?" You couldn't help yourself as your tail started to swish in excitement.

Mapleshade let out a sharp laugh at your response, "I can see why Tigerclaw sees such potential in you. That eagerness to succeed will serve you well little one." The tortoiseshell she-cat walked away from the two of you, signaling you to follow her. You looked to Tigerclaw for permission and started to follow Mapleshade after he gave a tense nod. It felt as if ants were crawling along your pelt, the worry you had starting to return. Tigerclaw was nervous.

Mapleshade sat at the center of the clearing and you stood in front of her, wondering what would happen next.

"Houndleap!" 

A small, scrawny black cat quickly made their way to the clearing and looked to Mapleshade, standing a little distance from you.  "Yes, Mapleshade." the cat responded, his voice reminding you of claws scratching rock.

"(Y/n), this is the cat you'll be fighting." Mapleshade nodded her head towards Houndleap as she spoke. "We need to see how strong you are." 

"Uh...can....I touch him?" You scratched your head as a few chuckles were heard from the ghost cats. "I mean...he's a ghost" You pointed at Houndleap, who looked offended, and turned to look at Mapleshade.

Mapleshade's face was scrunched up as she held back her own laughter. " Yes , (Y/n), You can touch us. It is your spirit that's here, not your physical body." Mapleshade placed her paw on your head for emphasis, and you tensed as you felt her claws unsheathe a little.  

You looked up at her, concerned and confused. She looked down at you with a smile and a dangerous glint in her eyes, her meaning clear. No more stupid questions.

You wanted to protest, it was your first time here it's not your fault that you had no idea you could touch ghosts! But knew that she would probably dig her claws into your head. Instead you nodded your head and back away from Mapleshade, immediately looking to Houndleap to size him up. He was scrawny and looked underfed but his muscles were defined.

The two of you circled each other, your movements stiff, while Houndleap's were the exact opposite, him moving in an almost graceful manner. The die rolled in your head, 10 appearing. The battle could go either way.

You tried relaxing your muscles, but sensing your nervousness Houndleap decided to make the first move. He launched at you, startling you into action. You scrambled away from him in a near panic, not expecting him to be so quick.

Cats scoffed at your actions, while you turned to face Houndleap, feeling enough distance should be between the two of you. But as soon as you turned Houndleap was upon you, his speed once again taking you by surprise. You let out a hiss as the two of you clashed, his claws sinking into you. You unsheathed your claws in response, letting out an angry yowl as you dragged your claws down his chest. Houndleap let out a screech, rearing on his back legs. You could tell he was about to bring his forepaws back down, with the goal to force the air out of your lungs, thinking quickly you kicked your back legs out, successfully hitting Houndleap's back legs and knocking him off balance.

A startled mrow came from your opponent as he toppled over onto his back. He was quick to right himself, but before he could fully raise you jumped at him, taking notes of his earlier attempt to make you breathless as you put all your weight in between his shoulder blades. Houndleap let out a wheeze as he hit the ground again, and you stayed on his back, keeping him pinned to the ground. 

It was odd to you that he seemed breathless. Apparently even ghosts need to breathe? But hey, it helped knowing these ghosts didn't have endless reserves of energy!

Houndleap let out an enraged yowl, you so lost in your thoughts you almost jumped off him in alarm. But luckily you didn't, your claws still in the tom.

'You're fighting you damned idiot !'  You screamed at yourself. Once again your stupid brain was distracting you! You quickly put all your weight back on the tom, but he didn't stop thrashing, hissing and cursing at you in the process, and you knew his vicious shaking would shake you off sooner or later. Fearing his anger if he were to break free you did the only thing you could think of, sinking your teeth into his neck.

A sharp gasp came from Houndleap's mouth as he immediately stilled himself. A heavy fear scent coming from him, it mixed with the scent of all the cats around the two of you, filled with excitement, and one with apprehension. You were confused, wondering what they were all waiting for.

" Kill him!" A cat hissed, and that's when it hit you. They wanted you to kill...a ghost?

Could ghosts even be killed? Your first thought was no but there was no mistaking Houndleap's fear scent, and you quickly let go of the tom and backed away from him, fur standing on end. It felt like there was a rock in your throat, the unbearable heaviness of the air starting to come back.

Houndleap glared at you warily as he picked himself up off the ground.

"I-I wasn't going to kill you! I would never... never kill another cat!" Your voice shakes as you speak. Growls and hisses echoed around you as the cats expressed their displeasure.

"Weakling!" An angry yowl took over the noises of the other cats. And the cat Tigerclaw growled at earlier, Thistleclaw, came charging towards you and Houndleap. You froze in fear.

Suddenly Tigerclaw was in front of you, but to the surprise of you both it was Houndleap that Thistleclaw tackled, and once again you could smell the fear scent as Houndleap stared ahead, looking at you as he was immobilized by the larger cat.

"You lost so easily to that weakling , you don't deserve to be here," Thistleclaw sneered at Houndleap. Houndleap's pupils became pinpricks as he opened his mouth to scream, but it was your screams that filled the clearing as Thistleclaw broke Houndleap's neck. Quickly killing him. You could suddenly feel all the blood on you, and the mix of blood and fur under your claws, as your wounds started to burn along your pelt.

You could only stare in shock as Houndleap's body slowly started to fade, a small tree sprouting where he once was. And then you fainted.

Suddenly your eyes opened again, but you weren't in the Dark Forest, you were back in the bush, a concerned Tigerclaw staring at you.

You let out a whimper, ignoring your body's protests as you buried your face in Tigerclaw's fur, tears streaming down your face. Tigerclaw stiffened at your actions, but quickly relaxed himself and gently placed his paw on your back. The warrior didn't know much about giving comfort but seeing you so upset made his chest hurt.

"I'm...sorry," Tigerclaw whispered. He felt his throat tightening as he saw your blood covered fur. You looked up at your mentor and saw genuine regret in his eyes.

"It's okay Tigerclaw....." You mumbled your reply, staring down at your paws. You raised one to wipe the tears from your face, taking deep breaths to try and calm yourself.

Once you calmed down it was then you noticed you were still bleeding and looked to your side in shock to see one of the wounds Houndleap gave you. Tigerclaw stepped out of the bush and looked back towards you, your face twisted in fear.

"The wounds you get from the Dark Forest... they stay with you. I'm sorry (Y/n) I didn't expect that to happen." Tigerclaw's ears were flat against his head as he frowned. "We need to go to Spottedleaf so she can look at your wounds." 

You stepped out of the bush, wincing at the pain that came each time you put pressure on your right leg.

"What am I supposed to tell Spottedleaf?" you asked, wondering how you could explain your injuries.

Tigerclaw opened his mouth to speak but before he could say anything you both heard a hiss, and a voice filled with rage.

"I knew it."

Chapter Text

You and Tigerclaw both looked to where the voice came, ears pricked in alarm, to see Spottedleaf with Whitestorm right next to her. The pure rage on Spottedleaf's face made you flinch, never expecting the soft spoken medicine cat to have such a look of hatred in her eyes. All directed towards Tigerclaw. Whitestorm on the other paw looked concerned as he saw the blood and dirt on you.

Tigerclaw let out a deep growl at Spottedleaf's glare, causing her to hiss in response.

"You had the nerve to take (y/n) to the Dark Forest?!" Spottedleaf yowled at the large tom.

"Mind your business!" Tigerclaw snapped back.

"Mind my business?! When it's my job to look over the clan, everyone's business is mine, Tigerclaw. Or are you suggesting I ignore wounded cats?"

Tigerclaw's ears flattened against his head, he had no rebuttal.

"And you...." Your chest tightened as you saw the look of pain on Spottedleaf's face. "I told you of those cats Tigerclaw, how they only care for blood. How could you put (y/n) in such danger! Look at them, wounded and covered in dirt and blood!" Spottedleaf's voice cracked at the end, sounding like she was on the verge of crying.

With attention now being put on you, you looked to Tigerclaw only to see him purposely looking away from all of you.

"It's not his fault, I-" you started, wanting to defend Tigerclaw.

"Do. Not." the pain in and anger in Spottedleaf's voice caused you to flinch again, the sharp movement causing your wounds to sting. "You're just an apprentice, it's not your fault! Tigerclaw is the one who took you there, Tigerclaw is the reason you're covered in wounds!" Spottedleaf walked over to you, softly nudging you. "Come with me, (y/n), we need to clean your wounds."

You looked to Tigerclaw, who still wasn't looking at any of you. In the same position he was since Spottedleaf told him to look at you. Sensing your reluctance to leave Whitestorm stepped forward and gave you a lick on your head.

"Get yourself looked over (y/n), I'll stay here with Tigerclaw." Knowing you didn't really have a choice in the matter, you were in pain after all, you limped after Spottedleaf.

.

..

.

Spottedleaf wasn't walking in the directed of the camp, instead going towards Sunningrocks, which confused you.

Sensing your confusion Spottedleaf spoke up, "We're going to Sunningrocks to wash the blood and dirt off, it's closer and the Dark Forest causes wounds to get infected faster." You nodded your head out of habit, forgetting the medicine cat couldn't see you, and became lost in thought. Worries clouded your mind, wondering what would happen to Tigerclaw and thinking of the Dark Forest cats.

"We're here," Spottedleaf's announcement snapped you out of your thoughts, and the she-cat moved to the side so you could join her at the river's edge.

"Mouse dung! I forgot moss, there should be some nearby. Stay here and start cleaning yourself, be careful not to disturb the wounds too much," Spottedleaf spoke in a rush before bounding off.

You dipped your paw in the ice cold water, snapping it back quickly due to the coldness. You braced yourself before dipping your paw back in, then taking it out to start cleaning yoursef, lightly dabbing your fur to remove blood and dirt. Your stomach flipped as you watched the blood get swept away by the water. A loud gasp startled you out of your thoughts and you snapped your head up to see Silverpaw, one of the RiverClan apprentices you saw before next to her.

"(Y/n)! What happened to you?!" Silverpaw shouted, not hesitating to jump into the water to get to you.

The other cat frowned at Silverpaw's actions, tail twitching back and forth in irritation. She didn't like Silverpaw's friendliness towards you.

You waited until your friend was out of the water to start speak, "I got in a fight with a rogue," you lied. But was it really a lie? The Dark Forest cats didn't belong to any clan after all.

"You're so dirty, let us help you!"

"Us?" Her clanmate loudly scoffed at her words.

"Yes, Vixensong, they can get all this blood off faster if they actually went in the river! And the cold will help numb the pain."

You paused at that, in the river? You'd drown! Seeing how stiff you became Silverpaw quickly spoke.

"Don't worry, Vixensong and I will be on either side of you to make sure the current doesn't take you away. Right, Vixensong?"

The black she-cat across the river growled before jumping in, stopping at the edge of the riverbank. Silverpaw got on the other side and slid in, leaving enough for you to get inbetween them.

Trusting Silverpaw you slowly slipped into the water, the movement causing pain. But the cold current quickly brought relief, numbing the aches in your body. A loud sigh escaped your mouth as you closed your eyes and rested your head on the stony bank in front of you.

"You owe me Silverstream," the black she-cat snapped at her clanmate. Wait....

"Silverstream?!" you suddenly screamed, eyes snapping open and head jerking up. The sudden movement startling the two cats. "You're a warrior?!" You gaped at your friend.

"Yup!" Silverstream laughed, "My name's Silverstream now. Me, Vixensong, and our sibling Grasswhisker became warriors recently."

"Why didn't you tell me!"

"Well...you are covered in blood, I figured that was a more important issue."

"False! You being a warrior is definitely more important. Congratulations! To both of you!"

Both cats thanked you, Silverstream's coming out as a laugh and Vixensong's a huff.

"What in Starclan are you doing?!"

You and your company look up to see a bewildered Spottedleafe, confusion was clear on her face as she battled between being calm and concern. In her shock she dropped the moss she had been carrying onto the ground, reminding you of the time you tried leaving the medicine cat den.

"Oh it's okay Spottedlead! Silverstream and her sister were helping me clean off, being in the water helped get rid of the blood and dirt faster."

Spottedleaf continued to stare at you, still bewildered, but a laugh started to bubble in her throat, soon becoming louder as she was no longer able to hold it back. You and the two Riverclan cats stared at her with concern. Did she go mad?

You clambered out of the water, Silverstream giving you a boost to make sure you didn't slip back in, and then Silverstream and Vixensong climbed out behind you. You walked over to Spottedleaf, the she-cat finally calming down once you reached her. She wiped tears from her eyes and looked at you with a smile on her face. The warmth radiating from her reminded you of a mother looking at her kit, and despite the cold you felt warm, giving her a smile in return.

"You're very resilient, (y/n)." Spottedleaf said, admiration in her voice. "And thank you for helping them you two," Spottedleaf said as she turned to look at Silverstream and Vixensong, "I hope it wasn't too much trouble for you, Vixensong? I know Silverstream had to be the one to make you do this."

"Sure was!" Siverstream laughed.

The three of you started simultaneously shaking your fur, water splattering everywhere including Spottedleaf and each other. Spottedleaf backed away with a jump, her fur prickling at the cold wetness. She was going to scold all of you, but decided to hold her tongue.

"Come on (y/n), let's get you warmed up and those wounds wrapped."

"Okay Spottedleaf," you turned to Silverstream, giving her a nuzzle, "Thank you for the help Silverstream."

"Anytime (y/n)," Silverstream purred as she nuzzled you back.

"And you too, Vixensong," you said as you turned to the black she-cat, giving her a bow. A mumbled 'you're welcome' was her response before she turned, bounding across the stones. Silverstream gave you a quick goodbye before following her across the stones.

'Huh, even RiverClan cats get tired of the water' you mused.

Turning to face Spottedleaf she gave you a smile and the two of you began the walk back to camp.

Chapter Text

I always wondered what fanfic authors thought about their “abandoned” works, feel like now I have some idea. It’s been almost 3 years since I updated this fic but I don’t think there’s been a single day I wasn’t thinking of it!! I’ve revisited the fic a few times, the first few chapters especially putting a smile on my face. Sometimes I get the urge to try and rewrite the first few chapters, but never do. No matter how silly the fic wouldn’t exist without them as they are, and I just love them too much.

And I haven’t stopped working on this believe it or not!

I’m just slow. Chapters 11 and 12 took the longest for me to do, since they’ll contain serious topics I’ve obsessed over making sure I handled them good. Then lots and lots of thinking how to piece things together, which involved going back to some (unposted) chapters to add details to help things flow. >_>

I am right now on Chapter 19/20 with an outline on how I want the last few chapters to look!

Another thing that gave me pause was chapter titles. I think I’ll just rename them to just Chapter 1, 2, 3, etc because those are the only things I think I have a genuine dislike for when it comes to this fic.

Last issue I had was that as I was rereading the book while working on this: I came to find that to me there’s nothing more boring than writing the exact same scenes except with Reader added. It was a huge killer for my motivation. Of course, there’s some scenes where it’s inevitable, but a lot of thought went into making sure Reader’s story is actually focused on the Reader as another character. My goal for this fic is for people to be able to reread the main books and this side-by-side, and not feel as if they’re just reading the same thing except some extra character is there to steal everything from Firepaw. I want Firepaw to still be the Fire that saves the Clan! 

I also might rename the fic to ‘Into the Wild’. And making a collection called ‘The New Apprentice’. So each fic for TNA will follow each book if I can push myself to do all that! I hope I can. 

I don’t really have anyone whose brains I can poke in regards to this fic. I’ll be honest I feel it cringy to bring up that I write a reader insert :X but I do have one friend who’s been able to help me and give me ideas, for this and possible future fics(all not wc related though)

At first I was gonna try to finish ALL the chapters before posting again, but I’m thinking, maybe posting again will be the push I need to work towards things? So, I'm gonna try posting 1 chapter a week. Maybe every Monday. And I hope my writing isn't a jarring change, since it's been a few years I overall feel my writing has became a lot better? I could be wrong though! 

If you’ve read all this, thank you! I hope readers are ready because things are gonna get rough. Because Brokenstar. That asshole. I do my best to keep a few silly things but I had forgot how fast things went downhill towards the end of Into the Wild. Hopefully everyone will enjoy how the characters are written and how I go about Tigerclaw not really being the villain anymore!

Chapter Text

As the two of you started the walk back to camp the throbbing in your shoulder intensified, a limp now in your walk. Spottedleaf pressed against you, "Lean on me, (y/n)." You had no strength to argue, gratefully putting your weight on the she-cat. As the two of you neared camp your stomach started to turn. What would the cats standing guard think?

"Don't worry," Spottedleaf spoke up, sensing your concern, "Whitestorm and Tigerclaw are the ones who will be guarding the entrance tonight." Your head lowered. Because of you the camp was left unguarded. Anything could've happened! Your stomach was in knots as your brain came up with scenario after scenario. What if the silence was because everyone was dead?

But as the two of you reached the top of the ravine you could see no damage to the tunnel, smell no blood or foreign or panicked scents. Safe. The relief that overcame you almost made your legs give out.

Spottedleaf helped you down the ravine, being directly in front of you just in case you slipped, once at the bottom she went to the entrance and started to swipe at the tunnel, widening it. There was no care of the damaged branches, as her focus was solely on making enough space for you to go through. You grunted as you forced your body to move, pawsteps heavy. You quickly became thankful for her actions, as any stray brambles that brushed against you caused you to whimper.

On the other side you looked around at the camp illuminated by the half-moon. There were no cats outside their dens, and you welcomed the silence, not wanting to see the faces of concerned clanmates. Spottedleaf was next to you again, and went back to supporting most of your weight as the two of you walked to her den. Once inside you plopped down onto the first nest available, a wheeze coming out as your wounds burned. You could feel fresh blood dripping and matting your fur. Just great.

Dutiful as ever Spottedleaf immediately got to work. Paws gently separating your fur, any wounds that had new dirt or debris carefully cleaned before being wrapped. Your eyes lazily followed her movements, most of the attention on her face. Each time a new wound was found she seemed closer to crying.

It felt as if most of your body was wrapped by the time Spottedleaf finished. And even after she couldn't find any new wounds she looked you over at least three more times before finally sighing and taking a step back. You continued gazing at her as she sat in front of you, her own gaze hardened while looking down at her paws.

"Was there a cat named Thistleclaw there?" She finally spoke in a whisper.

Your eyes widened as you thought back to the Dark Forest cats, recalling the spiky furred tom and his interaction with Tigerclaw. Then recalling-

No.

You weren't going to think about that right now.

"Y-yes...he was talking to Tigerclaw." You saw Spottedleaf's muscles tense, so tight her body started to shake. She could tell there was something that you were too scared to talk about.

"You must never go there again. Those cats care for blood and nothing more," you could hear the desperation in her voice, and your chest tightened.

"I know," you murmured, "But...what made you ask about Thistleclaw?" You couldn't help but ask, as you recall the many faces. You felt bad when she flinched at your question, shifting in her spot as her face went through a range of emotions. She closed her eyes and let out a heavy sigh.

"He was the one to take me to the dark forest," Your ears pricked up at this as the she-cat opened her eyes to finally look at you. "He would visit me when I was a kit, and I trusted him... When I was an apprentice he tried to lead me down that path, with promises of love ," Spottedleaf spat out the last word like it was poison. And you felt bile rise to your throat as you quickly understood what she meant. "By the time I realized how dangerous he was, I didn't know how to get away from him. My only choice was to become a medicine cat. It's against the code for us the have mates, so I knew I'd be safe. But I should've known he'd lead Tigerclaw down that same path! And now it's affecting you..." Spottedleaf's face was twisted into a snarl as she glared at the empty walls of the den, expression so unlike the medicine cat you were used to.

"Was there no one you could turn to?" Why did no cat help her? Spottedleaf's expression changed to sadness as she looked at you again.

"At the time? I thought so. And I didn't realize the dangers of him going after me, I just knew I couldn't be with such a bloodthirsty cat. But now? I know he would've been punished, if I just had the courage..." You could sense regret in her voice, making you wonder if she missed what her life could've been if she had been a warrior. You put your tail on her paw to offer some comfort.

"Do you ever regret becoming a medicine cat? You can't have kits or a mate..."

Spottedleaf gave a small smile, "For a time I did, but the feeling faded. And as of now I no longer have any regrets. I don't need to give birth to have kits. Besides, let's say the code was to change and I could have some, it's... embarrassing to admit, but I feel they could never compare to you, as you're everything I could ever want in a child."

Your eyes widened at her words. Once again you felt the warmth of a mother, and that warmth filled you with happiness. You didn't remember your past but still, somehow you knew you had never felt so loved. You softly thanked her, a purr coming from you.

Silence filled the air as you both became lost in thought. But you were the one to break it as your thoughts drifted back to your mentor.

"What will happen to Tigerclaw?"

"Tomorrow I will report his actions to Bluestar, you won't have to worry about him any-"

"No!" You spoke up in alarm, Spottedleaf jumping a little and looking at you in surprise. "N-No?" She spluttered. "You could have died (Y/n)!" There was fear in her eyes and you understood why she was scared. But you had to try and make her understand.

"Please Spottedleaf, he didn't mean to hurt me! He apologized after everything. And when he thought Thistleclaw was going to hurt me he was ready to fight him."

The fur on Spottedleaf's back raised, "What made him think Thistleclaw was going to hurt you?"

You inhaled sharply, you didn't want to speak on it but... you owed it to Spottedleaf after she told you of her past. "The cat I fought, Houndleap" your voice cracked as you said his name, "I won the fight, and the cats wanted me to kill him Spottedleaf. I could never do such a thing so I backed away and that's when..." You took in a shaky beath as you recalled everything, letting it all out in one go. "Thisteclaw was angry and he started charging at us and Tigerclaw had jumped in front of me ready to fight him but it was Houndleap he was after and he...he"

"That's enough (Y/N), I'm so sorry," The medicine cat laid down next to you and started to lick your head as tears fell from your eyes and you shuddered. You buried your face in her fur as you tried to calm yourself down.

"I can't turn a blind eye to this,"

"I-"

"But ," Spottedleaf said sharply. "I will trust your judgment. But you have to promise, if he tries to take you back there, tries to teach you any of their fighting, you must tell me."

"Spottedleaf I promise! And thank you!" You said as you looked at her, eyes filled with gratitude. You sniffled before letting out a small purr, and Spottedleaf softened.

"Now you must get some sleep," Spottedleaf said as she gave another lick to your head. You nodded, once again burying your face into her fur. Within minutes you were sleep.

.

..

.

There was a cacophony of yowls around you, causing you to open your eyes. You were in a cage, just one of the many cats stuck here. The humans had trapped you, taking you from the spacious streets to this small, cold, and enclosed place. A shelter they called it. The nests you were provided didn't give you much comfort, and you constantly ripped at yours in frustration. It was impossible to be heard, you could barely hear yourself think, and many were unwilling to talk. Some of the cats would constantly yowl, making you wonder how their voices weren't hoarse, while others were complacent, used to being trapped. You heard voices– not of cats, but humans– approaching your section of the shelter. When they came into view you saw a human child standing next to a much older one. And in front of them one of the humans that worked here.

Your eyes widened at the sight, recognizing the child. But you also felt disconnected, as if you were having an out of body experience. This was a memory of yours, but...also not? You were never fond of people. Only that child who had always showed you kindness when no one else did. You remembered when you were starving and the child brought you food after you had been abandoned by your mother. Letting you eat despite their own stomach’s loud rumbling. And they began to do it everyday. Every morning stopping at the alley you called home, sitting on the dirty ground, and the two of you would share a meal. But while you recognized the things around you. Remember this place vividly. You felt as if you were on the wrong side of things. The elder human next to the child. You knew them. But you also never saw them before in your life.

For once, you were near the front of your cage, letting out a loud caterwaul, catching the atte ntion of the humans. The child’s eyes brightened when they saw you, and they rushed towards you. The worker let out a sharp yell– which you couldn’t blame them for, as you clawed any that tried to approach you– but the child wasn’t deterred, pushing their hand through the bar, patting your head. A deep serenity overcame you when the child touched your head, feeling complete, and you closed your eyes.

When you opened your eyes you were at Fourtrees, the sky above covered in stars but no sign of the moon. It was empty until a fawn-and-white she-cat bounded up onto the Great Rock. "Doestar!" you meowed excitedly, trotting up to your....former leader? You tried to gather your thoughts, confused as to how you knew this cat, and knew the area you were in. You had only seen the outskirts of Fourtrees when you....when you what? You couldn't remember. You could feel your mouth moving, and Doestar was talking as well, but everything seemed to be in a haze, the words fuzzy and unintelligible. But suddenly Doestar's words were crystal clear.

"One of your kits, a tom, has a shadow over his destiny."

"What do you mean?" You demanded as your claws pricked the earth. Your belly was tight with anxiety, almost making you topple over at suddenly being able to feel all your emotions and hear everything being said. "What kind of shadow?"

Your leader looked to the side. "The worst kind," she murmured, you had to strain to hear her voice from so high up. And then she looked back to you, "He will be born with the power to destroy ThunderClan."

Your heart was beating fast as you opened your mouth to scream at her. How could she know that! But then you felt as if your belly flipped on itself, as the Great Rock suddenly became smaller, but with that you became smaller as well! You were now in ThunderClan, looking at the High Rock as a cat spoke. He was Pinestar, your father. You had a hunch you shouldn't know this but couldn't figure out why. Once again you couldn't make out anything being said, but as your father jumped down from the High Rock and began to make his way to the gorse tunnel your mother, Leopardfoot, darted forward. She blocked his path, tail lashing in frustration.

"What about our kits?" As you made your way towards you parents you could suddenly hear everything again. As your parents talked you playfully attacked your father's tail. When he pulled his tail away you stared up at him and a tiny growl came from your throat.

"Be strong my son, serve your clan well," He whispered before leaving.

Once again the scene changed, you were back in the nursery cuddled up to your mother as she cried. Your sisters had died the same night your father left the clan, and nothing you did could console your mother. You buried your face into her black fur, falling asleep as you wished for her tears to stop.

You were suddenly woken up by a wet feeling, only to see your mother still crying. You became alarmed as you noticed where the wetness was coming from. Water was all around you and your mother, and it continued to rise as she cried. You waded over to her face as best you could, alarmed and meowing at her to stop. Your tiny paws pressed against her face, trying to push her tears back inside of her, but they wouldn't stop and you became panicked as the tears finally overtook you and your mother disappeared.

Your tiny lungs tightened as you could no longer breath. Your mouth opened in a helpless scream. You didn't want to die! You couldn't leave your mother! You couldn't do what your father did!

As blackness clouded your vision you suddenly felt teeth sinking into your scruff, and then air was filling your lungs. You could breathe! You coughed and gasped as your tiny body tried to fill your lungs with air and rid itself of the water at the same time. You shivered and sniffled.

"You poor thing," a voice said, making you shoot up on wobbly legs. You turned to the voice but couldn't make out the face of the cat, "It's alright little one, I know the pain of losing what you hold dear. Let me help you, and you'll be able to be what your father failed to. Powerful. Strong enough to keep your clan safe, to not fall into the trap of kittypet life."

You wanted to say no. The voice was familiar, but where have you heard it? You've never met this cat and never visited this place before. Your brain was screaming at you to run, but you couldn't control your body! You stared at the cat whose face you couldn't see and smiled.

Power.

That was what you needed.

No! Wanting power is what got you....got you what? You couldn't remember. Power was what you needed. Yes. To protect ThunderClan. To keep your mother happy. You would become the strongest. You would become Tigerstar!

"You promise?" You asked the mysterious feline.

"I promise," the voice purred.

And suddenly everything was clear. You realized where you were. The smell of rot making you want to retch, the cat's face suddenly becoming clear.

Mapleshade.

.

..

.

You woke with a yowl, causing Spottedleaf to yelp and jump up. She looked at you in alarm as you hyperventilated. Your head hurt and you felt dizzy, your pelt feeling wet as if you were actually in water. But looking at yourself there was no wetness. Your limbs still had a fuzzy feeling, and you felt disconnected from everything.

"Just...just a bad dream..." You mumbled to ease Spottedleaf's worries. Your voice was scratchy, and clearing your throat caused it to seize in pain. The discomfort you felt when you spoke was obvious to Spottedleaf, who immediately set to get herbs to help your throat. You let out a cough, covering your snout to not spread germs.

The dreams were on your mind, doing your best to recall everything before they were forgotten. You didn't know what to do about them. Were they true? You felt the dreams, the emotions, more than you remembered details or names. The one sticking in your memory the easiest being the last. While the first, the happiest and one you felt you knew deeply, was fading quicker than you could hold onto it. This was something you couldn't speak about, not yet at least. You had a lot to think about.

Chapter Text

A thick silence overtook the clearing after you and Spottedleaf left, neither of the toms knowing what to say to the other. Whitestorm knew Tigerclaw was on edge, and he could smell the mix of anger and fear scent coming from his friend.

On the other paw, Whitestorm was filled with frustration. Even after dying his father was causing trouble. Spottedleaf said that Tigerclaw's Dark Forest mentor was most likely a cat named Mapleshade, as cats weren't allowed to train their own apprentices there. But he knew whatever convinced Tigerclaw to go there Thistleclaw had a part to play. He looked at Tigerclaw, whose head was still turned away, in the same position it was since Spottedleaf told him to look at you.

"I told Bluestar that you'd join me in guarding the camp tonight. We should head back."

"So you and Spottedleaf already knew?" Tigerclaw hissed, his tail thrashing back in forth.

"No. I didn't know at first. But Spottedleaf had her suspicions," the white tom wanted to be honest. "She came to me concerned when she overheard the apprentices complaining about (y/n) not training with them anymore.

Tigerclaw let out another hiss, of course they'd complain. And it was probably that kittypet that did the most!

"Tigerclaw we should start walking," Whitestorm approached Tigerclaw and brushed against him, he wanted to let Tigerclaw know it was okay. But... he also needed to let him know that he wasn't afraid to fight if the time ever came. For now, patience.

Tigerclaw brushed past Whitestorm, walking briskly. He held his head high in an attempt at bravado. But his movements were stiff. Whitestorm sighed and started to follow. The forest was quiet as the two walked, the only noise being the bugs and an occasional hoot from an owl. They followed a path well worn from generations of ThunderClan warriors, and soon were at the top of the ravine.

Looking down they could see Spottedleaf was at the entrance with you, moving branches out the way. And seeing you made Tigerclaw deflate. All the bravado left him as he watched you limp your way through the gorse tunnel, his head lowering and tail falling listlessly to the ground.

Whitestorm walked past Tigerclaw, brushing against him again before making his way down the ravine and sitting by the entrance.

Tigerclaw shook himself before following Whitestorm and sitting on the other side, and a heavy silence ensued.

Watching the night sky, Whitestorm thought to himself. He didn't want to argue with Tigerclaw or make him angry but they needed to talk about what just happened.

"Whatever you want to say just say it," Tigerclaw spat. "I'm not some weak-willed kit!"

"Always perceptive," Whitestorm gave a humorless chuckle. "But I need time to gather my own thoughts."

Tigerclaw eyed the other tom warily, wondering what he was going to say.

"Do you know what happened to Spottedleaf, Tigerclaw? Her reason for becoming a medicine cat?"

"No."

"It was because of my father," Whitestorm started, the sudden anger and venom in his voice putting Tigerclaw on edge and causing him to slightly bristle. "He was trying to make her his mate, and brought her to the dark forest. It was then Spottedleaf realized Thistleclaw put violence above all else. She was afraid to confront him, and decided it would be best to become a medicine cat, so that she would be protected by clan law."

Tigerclaw tensed, claws pricking the earth and stomach churning at the thought of his mentor preying on someone so young.

"Why are you telling me this? That was not my intentions when I took (y/n) to the Dark Forest!" Tigerclaw's pelt began to bristle even more, was Whitestorm accusing him of being like Thistleclaw?

"I need to make sure you understand. When Spottedleaf told me this, I saw red Tigerclaw. Never in my life, before or since then, had I felt such rage. Knowing how he treated my aunt, and then learning of what Spottedleaf went through...I want..." Whitestorm's eyes widened and he let out a shaky breath as memories he buried deep began to resurface. "I want to let you know what I did, Tigerclaw."

Tigerclaw's ears pricked at this, full focus on Whitestorm.

.

..

.

The sun was shining brightly, warming Whitestorm's fur as he stepped out of the warriors den. But the warmth went unnoticed. The night before the tom had questioned Spottedleaf on why she had decided to become a medicine cat, and after making him promise to not get angry, the she-cat told him of what happened between her and his father, Thistleclaw.

The normally calm and reserved cat spat in anger, glad the clearing was empty as he rubbed angry tears from his eyes. He was restless that night, unable to sleep. He knew Spottedleaf didn't want any fighting to be done because of her. But his chest had grown tighter and tighter as the night went on, his heart a ball of fire scorching his chest, and he didn't know how to quell it.

"There's a fire in your eyes Whitestorm, and all this time I thought Bluestar's softness got to you!" Whitestorm cringed as his father's voice filled the clearing. "I'm about to go patrol, come with me and see if we can find any intruders !"

It was then that Whitestorm got a look at Thistleclaw, and noticed the blackness of his sclera. The blackness he saw the day his mother left. He didn't understand it at first, no one had saw what he did. But as time went on he understood. The blackness appeared on the greatest of leaders, like Sunstar, to the tiniest of kits, like Mosskit. Something only he could see. Something that meant death.

His blazing heart suddenly calmed, becoming an ember that brought only warmth. This feeling... it scared him, his father was going to die soon, yet... he felt happiness and relief! The pain Thistleclaw caused his own clanmates, the bloodshed he always wanted to start. It'd all go away, they would be free. And the bloodcrazed tom would be sent to the deepest parts of the Dark Forest.

"Lead the way Thistleclaw," Whitestorm said with a smile.

Thistleclaw eagerly did just that, quickly making his way through the gorse tunnel , fur spiked even more than usual in his excitement. He was eager for a battle and hoped to have a good fight with his son. The look in Whitestorm's eyes screamed murder and if they came across an enemy patrol? Thistleclaw almost salivated at the thought, he and his son striking fear in their enemies! Then he could take Whitestorm to the Dark Forest with him, finally shedding the softness that Bluestar fostered. Thistleclaw sneered as he thought of the she-cat. Imagining the look on her face when her nephew became rougher, deadlier. Once he lost that softness passed down onto him he would finally be worthy of his warrior name.

The spiky tom's pace increased at the thoughts, eager to find intruders on their territory. Whitestorm chased after him in alarm. The two racing across the forest, Thistleclaw leading and Whitestorm following.

Irritation overcame Whitestorm as he chased his father. He claimed he wanted ThunderClan to be great, but was so obsessed with violence that he was scaring away the prey! Now the hunting patrols would have to work harder to catch anything this side of ThunderClan. His thoughts drifted to his aunt, Bluestar. He had always been a curious cat, and had asked her if she would trade her leadership if it meant her kits would still be alive. She didn't hesitate when she gave her answer, no. She was at peace with the loss of her kits, it was the path StarClan set for her, to prevent endless bloodshed coming to ThunderClan.

He didn't understand at first what she meant. But seeing his father in a new light he understood. For her to think of losing her kits as a good thing. All because of his father!

Then he thought of Spottedleaf. His friend since he was an apprentice. He remembered how Thistleclaw would invite her to train with him and Tigerpaw. She had always been so eager, so ready to serve ThunderClan as a warrior. And then there was a shift, she dropped everything to become a medicine cat. All her ambition suddenly gone. It was true she had an interest in herbs and often helped Featherwhisker, but she had still wanted to be a warrior. He was confused but accepted it at the time, but now knowing it was his own father that caused such things?

Whitestorm's claws unsheathed as he ran, leaving claw marks on the ground. As he ran after his father it looked like Thistleclaw was running away, fearful of his son. When Whitestorm's forepaws were in the air, stretched their farthest, his claws lined up perfectly with Thistleclaw's back. He couldn't help but imagine digging his claws in and filling the earth with Thistleclaw's favorite thing. But suddenly the forest had opened up, and yowls filled the clearing.

There were RiverClan cats sunbathing at the Sunningrocks, and Thistleclaw didn't hesitate to pounce, reaching the top in one go and startling the group of four. Whitestorm stopped at the edge of the forest, so lost in thought he hadn't noticed they had gotten so close to Sunningrocks or the scent of the RiverClan cats. He willed his body to move, scrambling up the rocks and joining his father. He would let fate take Thistleclaw, in the meantime he would defend his territory.

It was two against four but Whitestorm was confident. He recognized one of the RiverClan warriors, Rippleclaw, fighting against his father. Whitestorm felt claws raking his side, and immediately turned to confront a brown and white tom. But then a cat was on his back, biting into his spine. He wrestled free of the teeth and whirled around, facing a white and ginger she-cat, and tackled her. He slashed the she-cat across the face before bucking his back legs out, he heard a satisfying click as his rear paws made contact with the tom's jaw, forcing it to painfully close. The tom fell back from the pain and Whitestorm turned to leap at him. But he quickly fled into the water. Seeing the brown and white tom's retreat quickly caused his clanmates to follow. Rippleclaw being the last to go as he and Thist le claw grappled, the spiky furred tom refusing to let go of the RiverClan cat.

Rippleclaw finally managed to tear himself away and fell ungracefully into the water. Whitestorm's ears pricked in alarm as Rippleclaw could barely keep himself afloat, one of his clanmates jumping back into the river to help him cross. Thistleclaw loudly jeered and taunted the fleeing cats, and when they were gone the only noise left was Thistleclaw's laughter.

Whitestorm looked at his father in disbelief, vision going blurry. Thistleclaw had a nice amount of wounds but nothing that would kill him. His sharp, excited, movements and loudness went against everything Whitestorm knew. His father, sclera still black, walked past him, almost hopping with how energetic he was.

When Thistleclaw finally looked at Whitestorm he became annoyed at the shock on his face . Was his son truly that soft? That almost seeing a RiverClan cat drown shook him so? He snarled at Whitestorm.

Whitestorm saw his father's mouth move but couldn't hear anything as he stared at Thistleclaw's blackened eyes. Was fate mocking him? Did StarClan have something else planned for his father? It wasn't fair! Thistleclaw caused his own clanmates to suffer. Whitestorm felt his claws unsheathe as he started to tremble. The flame in his heart starting to flare up again, becoming hotter than before, an unbearable heat that he needed to tame.

Thistleclaw angrily approached his son, disgusted at him showing so much weakness, unaware of Whitestorm being unable to hear him.

And then Whitestorm was moving. His claws sinking into his father. Thistleclaw let out a yowl full of rage and alarm, Whitestorm returning a yowl of his own, his voice overtaking his father's. The two became a blur of fur and claws, more blood filling the clearing as they fought.

When Whitestorm finally pinned his father down, Thistleclaw stared up at him, pupils blown wide. To Whitestorm, his eyes looked like a vast empty pit, his wide pupils and black sclera blending together. Whitestorm felt disconnected from his body as he bared his fangs at Thistleclaw.

This wasn't real.

It couldn't be real.

Whitestorm would never turn on a clanmate!

But as he backed away he felt the blood dripping from his maw, the hole he ripped in Thistleclaw's throat causing him to choke and gasp for breath that wouldn't come.

Thistleclaw stared back, his shock reflected on his son's face as he felt his life fading. Whitestorm's white fur stained red. Thistleclaw tried to speak, only coughing up blood. But after a few more coughs and a raspy chuckle he finally got the words out, a crazed smile on his face.

"I'm... proud of you.... my son..." and then he was gone.

.

..

.

Whitestorm's head was low as he finished. Revealing something he kept close to his chest as tears stung his eyes. That day he had stumbled back to the camp, too weak to carry his father, and told them of the RiverClan cats at Sunningrocks, of the battle that occurred. But didn't say that it was Thistleclaw's own clanmate, his own son, that brought him to his end.

Tigerclaw's pelt prickled at the news, the fur along his spine raised in uneasiness. But he walked over to the white tom and sat next to him, his pelt brushing against Whitestorm's.

"Tigerclaw," Whitestorm's voice was weak, but became stronger as he went on, "I'm telling you this for your own good, I will not let you hurt any cats in ThunderClan." His gaze met Tigerclaw's, filled with tears but clearly daring the tabby to challenge him.

Tigerclaw met his gaze evenly. "My loyalty is to ThunderClan, and I will keep my apprentice safe," he hissed. "No cats, dead or living, will change that."

Whitestorm closed his eyes and leaned against Tigerclaw, feeling his answer was sufficient.

Chapter Text

For days you remained in Spottedleaf's den, sick and barely able to stay awake. You had vague memories of cats visiting you, a stressful Ravenpaw wanting to be next to and comfort you. Firepaw and Graypaw were usually always with him, checking on you but also making sure the black tom didn't get too close.

Lionheart had visited you as well, bringing flowers. You had been convinced it was a dream, but was surprised to wake up to the sweet smelling flowers he brought to help keep the air clear of the sickness and herbs.

And then there was Tigerclaw, he was never one to skip his duties, but every night he would visit you. Whitestorm was always there to keep an eye on him and see you as well, and many cats were surprised at the tom's daily visits. None recalling the last time he showed so much care to a cat that wasn't his mother.

You didn't remember all the times he visited, but knew by the freshness of his scent that he had been there. One of the times you were vaguely aware of, was a night you were plagued by nightmares. That night Tigerclaw laid beside you, resting his head on your side until you calmed down. Whitestorm allowed him, even though no cats were to go near you to make sure the sickness didn't spread.

No one talked of Tigerclaw’s constant sneezing for days afterwards.

As the week came closer to ending you were more conscious, and slowly grew more and more restless. To keep you entertained Spottedleaf had you help sort herbs, and you did your best, but wasn’t good at it. You constantly mixed the names of the herbs, and for the ones that looked similar – which, to you at least, almost all the green leaves did – had trouble telling them apart by scent. Spottedleaf seemed to enjoy trying to teach you though, saying it was good practice for when she did get her own apprentice. She also kept you updated with clan life. The clan had been told that you were attacked by a rogue that fled to twolegplace, which had put everyone on alert. Bluestar sent cats to mark the borders along the fence more strongly, and some cats had jumped on top of the fences, caterwauling warnings for kittypets and rogues alike to stay off ThunderClan territory.

Firepaw had been given Bluestar as a mentor, and ThunderClan had a prisoner, a cat named Yellowfang. ShadowClan's former medicine cat. Firepaw had been the one to encounter her, and not only had he fed her, but he had also eaten before providing for the clan. As punishment it was his job to care for the grumpy elder. And despite the term prisoner being used Spottedleaf assured you that Yellowfang was receiving fair treatment. With her appearing so soon after your attack many cats were wary, but Tigerclaw had assured the clan it was a tom you fought, and the clan had no reason to doubt his words.

All this news fascinated you, and you couldn't wait to leave the medicine cat den.

.

..

.

When the day finally came where you had trouble staying still and focusing, and already knowing how you were the last times you had been in there, Spottedleaf finally said you could go.

You didn't hesitate to burst out of her den, kicking up the moss in your nest at the speed with which you left. You zoomed around the clearing. Finally! It felt so good to stretch your legs again! As you felt the blood pumping through your body you began to chase your own tail.

You heard a snort of laughter and stopped, ears pricked, to see Lionheart. One of his large paws covered his mouth as he looked at you with amusement. In response you crouched, before launching an energetic pounce at the warrior. Lionheart laughed as he jumped away from you.

A game of cat and mouse began, causing some of the other cats in the clearing to laugh at the large warrior running from you.

Lionheart ran past the leader's den, and as you followed a few tail-lengths behind him a cat had stepped out between the two of you. You crashed into the cat, knocking the both of you over, three startled mrows! were heard, and as you blinked and untangled yourself from the other cat you noticed their blueish gray fur.

Wait...

At the realization you rammed into Bluestar you jumped up with a yowl, stammering over your words as you tried to apologize, ears flat and tail fluffed out and tucked under you.

Bluestar had picked herself up, shaking her fur out as she stared at you. You were too panicked to notice the amusement in her eyes, and Lionheart trotted over to you and placed a heavy paw on your shoulder.

"Relax, (y/n), Bluestar won't hurt you over an accident," Lionheart purred. He then turned to Bluestar, "I hope you'll forgive them Bluestar, Spottedleaf just released them from her den, and they have a lot of energy. We were playing."

"It's fine," Bluestar said as she waved her tail dismissively. "It's good to see you so full of energy, (y/n), you must be eager to train again."

You visibly relaxed at Bluestar's state, happy she wasn't mad. "I am!" you replied with a small jump, tail up in the air as all your previous energy came rushing back.

"Well then, I won't keep Tigerclaw any longer," Bluestar looked at the tabby warrior, who you hadn't even noticed at the entrance of her den, and gave him a nod before walking off.

You looked at Tigerclaw, excited to see your mentor again. The tom was tense, worried about how you'd act around him, but seeing your smile made him relax. But as you stared into his eyes you were reminded of something. A kit crying in the darkness, almost drowning, but then being saved by her. You shuddered as the dream came back to you.

Tigerclaw became alarmed at the sudden blank look on your face, and gave you a nudge, knocking you out of your stupor. He flicked his tail, telling you to follow him as he began to walk to the entrance. You shook yourself before eagerly trotting after him.

The forest was quiet as the two of you walked through it, fresh smells of recent patrols letting you know cats were still out. Sniffing the ground you could sense your trio of friends, Whitestorm, and Redtail.

When the scents diverged from your current path you couldn’t help feeling sad.

"We'll be going to ThunderClan's border along ShadowClan, so that you can know the rest of our boundaries." Tigerclaw spoke up. You perked up at this. After all, how could you become a ThunderClan warrior when you didn't know all of the territory?

The walk was quiet as you both were lost in thought. Well, you guessed Tigerclaw was lost in thought. You? You had no clue what you mind was doing! It was a random mashup of whatever crossed your mind, and a tiny voice that made sure you didn't go chasing after every leaf, or butterfly, or whatever else caught your attention. You were so lost in thought that when Tigerclaw called your name you jumped in alarm, turning to face him mid jump.

"Are you okay?"

"I'm fine Tigerclaw, was just thinking."

"I'm sorry, (y/n)." You looked at Tigerclaw as he stared straight ahead with a somber look. "If at any moment you don't want me as your mentor that's fine. Don't feel the need to pretend."

You tilted your head to the side at that, not being able to help the irritation that started to course through you. "What makes you think that?" You huffed. "If I didn't want you as my mentor Spottedleaf would've clawed your hide out before you could even get near me!"

Tigerclaw chuckled at the thought. "You're right, I'm just mad at myself. What kind of mentor am I if I allow my apprentice to get hurt so often?"

You couldn't argue with that reasoning so you just shrugged. "I know you're sorry Tigerclaw. I got hurt but you were there for me. Even when I was sick." You became silent as you thought of your dream, and soon the two of you were at Fourtrees.

Tigerclaw sat down, and you took a seat next to him, figuring he just wanted to take a break.

"How did you..." You faltered as you wondered if you were crossing boundaries, but you started, no going back. "How did you meet Mapleshade....if you don't mind me asking..." Your voice became a whisper when you spoke the she-cat's name, your pelt suddenly becoming cold.

"I was just a kit but she saved me from drowning." You were surprised at the straightforward answer, Tigerclaw still staring ahead. You stared at the ground as you thought things over. In the dream you had been in the Dark Forest, but it didn't seem like it until you could make out Mapleshade's face. Was it possible Mapleshade could make the Dark Forest look like something else?

"Thank you for telling me Tigerclaw." Your mentor let out a hum in acknowledgment.

You glanced down at Fourtrees before looking at the sun. You soon began looking all around, paws shifting as you wondered why the two of your were still sitting there. You then looked at Tigerclaw, who was cleaning one of his paws. His eyes were closed but he could sense your anxiousness.

"We're waiting for Whitestorm."

"Why?"

The tom ignored your question and went back to cleaning his paws, making you huff.

Just then a cat burst through the bushes, causing you to jump. It was Whitestorm, panting and out of breath. You and Tigerclaw waited for him to catch his breath.

"You know you weren't supposed to leave with (y/n) unless someone was with you," Whitestorm huffed with a stern look directed at Tigerclaw. Tigerclaw gave a dismissive snort and went back to facing forward.

"I was waiting for you to get here."

"Don't worry Whitestorm, Tigerclaw just wanted to apologize!" You butted in. Whitestorm let out a chuckle and Tigerclaw went stiff with embarrassment, standing up.

"Enough time has been wasted, let's get going," Tigerclaw said as he started to walk off. And you excitedly followed behind him with Whitestorm taking up the rear.

Tigerclaw led the two of you away from the Fourtrees, and passed a stream that allowed a clean jump across. You picked up on a sour cat-scent as you got closer to what had to be ShadowClan territory. Remembering what your friends told you, your fur prickling. But then there was a new sensation, a rumbling that unnerved you. There would be brief, unorganized pauses of the rumbling before continuing at random. A chaotic mess. You didn't know how but you knew those sounds deeply. And it unsettled you. Whitestorm became concerned as the closer your small group got to the Thunderpath the more your fur bristled. It was clear you didn't notice how you were on high alert.

"This is the Thunderpath," Tigerclaw announced as the three of you reached the edge of the forest, where you could see through a bush.

There was a ringing in your ears you couldn't place as Whitestorm joined Tigerclaw, staring out at the Thunder-

Road.

It was a road.

Just then, what your friends had called monsters, hulking beasts that always followed the Thunderpath, roared past, and you jumped back, unintentionally hissing. The two toms looked back at you and your panicked state.

"Relax, (y/n), the monsters never leave the Thunderpath," Whitestorm used a gentle tone, trying to calm you.

Lies.

Cars didn't always stay on the road!

The car that had drove past caused strong scents to assault your memory. Fire. Gasoline. Blood. You didn't know where they were coming from but you knew them intimately and it terrified you. And it didn't just stop at smells, there was a feeling along your spine, as if your pelt was on fire. You heard crackling, screeching, breaking.

Your eyes were wide, fear scent coming off of you in waves startling the two toms. Whitestorm approached you, and when you didn't respond to him calling your name, he instead grabbed you by the scruff and pulled you away from the road. Tigerclaw followed next to him, sniffing you and trying to snap you out of whatever catatonic state you were in.

You didn’t even realize you were being dragged, lost in sensations you couldn’t fully comprehend. It wasn’t until a different smell hit your nose, like a shock to your system, causing you to spring into action. You yanked yourself from Whitestorm’s grasp, startling the two again, and flung yourself face first into that scent.

Softness surrounded you, and the scent – musky and sweet at the same time – helped your heart slow. You took a deep, shuddering, inhale as you felt everything calm. New memories came to you, warm summer days, flowers ranging from yellow and red surrounding you, always a sign of happiness, of safety.

You opened your eyes, already knowing what flowers you would see.

Marigolds.

Both toms waited – quiet and anxious – noticing how you calmed down with each inhale. You started to come to, recognizing your surroundings, the rumbling of the cars now distant, and the memories already slipping from your grasp, as you finally rose onto shaky legs.

"(Y/n), what happened?" Tigerclaw asked. But you could only stare at the Marigolds, trying to piece together your memories.

"I...I don't know…"

Chapter Text

It had been a few moons since you first came to the clan, and today you would be having your official assessment! The one early on had been to see if you could actually be of use, as you had been unsteady on your paws, constantly tripping, and could barely even meow right. You remember one of the queen's saying, "It's like they don't remember being a cat!" Which, you didn't. So she wasn't wrong.

But now you were with Graypaw and Ravenpaw near the stump, waiting for Firepaw. It was lightly drizzling and Graypaw was sitting, his long fur clumped together due to the dampness of the air, while Ravenpaw was pacing in circles around the tree stump, his tail twitching. You were on the stump, following Ravenpaw's movement, spinning in a circle as you kept along with him.

It took a minute but the jumpy cat finally sensed he was being watched, and when he saw how you were following him his mouth twitched upwards, while his tail stopped its twitching. His eyes then had a mischievous glint to them, and he began to walk around the stump again. You followed him, and seeing you follow he sped up, starting to run. Determined to not lose the sudden game you continued to spin in circle, becoming lightheaded but not stopping.

"So you're joining us today!" At Graypaw's excited voice you and Ravenpaw stopped. The suddenness made vertigo hit and you fell off the stump. Ravenpaw let out a startled yelp and went to check on you, while Graypaw laughed and let Firepaw know what you and Ravenpaw had been doing.

Once he was sure you were okay Ravenpaw spoke up, "Come on! We should get going," at that the four of you trotted out the camp, quickly making your way to the Sandy Hollow. Seeing Tigerclaw wasn't there the four of you sat under a pine tree, talking and keeping each other warm. At first the conversation focused on calming Ravenpaw's anxiety, before evolving into idle chatter about training, your mentors, and wondering how the assessment would go.

When Tigerclaw finally arrived the rain had stopped, and the clouds were white. There was still a chill in the air but you knew the sun would warm things up. Tigerclaw gave you all a quick greeting before getting straight to business.

"Lionheart, Redtail, and I have spent the past moons trying to teach you how to hunt. Today you'll have a chance to show me how much you have learned. Each of you will take a different route and hunt as much prey as possible, and whatever you catch will be added to the fresh-kill pile."

The four of you looked to each other in excitement.

"Ravenpaw will follow the trail beyond the Great Sycamore, as far as the Snakerocks. You, Graypaw, will take the route along the stream, as far as the Thunderpath."

"Great, wet paws for me!" Graypaw complained, but didn't say more at Tigerclaw's stare.

"(Y/n)," you looked to your mentor eagerly, "you will hunt at Sunningrocks, and along the river that divides RiverClan and ThunderClan."

You gave a nod as Tigerclaw then turned his focus to Firepaw.

"And finally you, Firepaw. What a shame your great mentor couldn't be here today to witness your performance herself," you noticed the bitterness in Tigerclaw's voice, and remembered Spottedleaf telling you how Tigerclaw was against Firepaw becoming Bluestar's apprentice. "You shall take the route through the Tallpines, past the Treecut place, to the woods beyond."

You stood up, ready to go to your assigned area.

"And remember, I will be watching all of you."

Ravenpaw was the first to leave, sprinting away towards Snakerocks, and Tigerclaw took his own path in the woods.

You didn't waste time, running off towards Sunningrocks.

.

..

.

Being assigned to hunt near the Sunningrocks had you excited. You wondered if you'd see Silverpa-stream ! You corrected yourself. She was a warrior now! But then you remembered Tigerclaw's words. He'd be watching. So now you were hoping you didn't see your friend.

When you made it to the area you hid among the bushes separating the Sunningrocks from the forest, parting your mouth to smell the air, listening to the sounds around you, and surveying the area. The sensations of the forest filled your senses and you couldn't help but flex you claws in excitement.

A bird landed on one of the rocks, back turned to you, and you immediately focused, slowly starting to approach. You wished you had more assurance but ever since the Dark Forest fight you hadn't seen the die.

The bird was preoccupied with a crack in the rocks, most likely doing some hunting of its own. As soon as you were close enough you leaped. The bird didn't even have time to cry out as you grasped it in your teeth and quickly put it out of its misery. You looked down at your kill, tail high and smiling. When you first joined ThunderClan you couldn't walk without alerting the whole forest of your presence. But now? You were well on your way to becoming a warrior.

After burying the bird you followed along the river, hunting numerous prey. You took a break on top of the Sunningrocks, watching the river flow, and thought back to Silverstream catching the fish.

Should you?

Noticing a fish swimming close you decided yes, you should. You jumped down the rocks onto the bank below, getting ready to grab the fish until a vividly distinct memory – of a cartoon-ish fox fiercely slapping the surface and scaring the fish away – made you pause.

Cartoon-ish?

But there was no point in trying to decipher the thought, already knowing if you didn't know it the Clan cats wouldn't either. Frowning, you stared at the fish, who was still unaware of your presence.

You then thought to Silverstream, remembering her catching the fish. You didn't see her paw movements, being behind her and all, but you tried to mimic her position, raising your paw as you stared with determination at the river. Your paw darted in, claws outstretched, and you felt as your claws sank into a scaly body.

Yes!

You quickly pulled the fish out, throwing it onto the sandy bank. It flopped aggressively and you put a paw on it, giving a quick bite to its neck to put it out of its misery. It wasn't a large thing but a catch was a catch.

Including the fish you caught a total of 6 pieces of prey before sunhigh, and after noticing the time you began to make your way back to the Sandy Hollow, the fish in your mouth and a pep in your step.

On the way you noticed some green leaves, and remembered seeing some similar in Spottedleaf's den. Taking a moment, you stooped down and sniffed the herb, enjoying the smell that overcome your senses. It was definitely one of the herbs, although you couldn't recall its name. Using your teeth, you gently snipped some leaves, doing your best to not cause any damage to the plant itself, before placing it on top of your fish and carrying both back to the Sandy Hollow.

As you neared the Hollow you overhead Graypaw's loud "Yuck!" and quickened your pace, not wanting to be the last one back. As you came through the bushes Tigerclaw narrowed his eyes, staring directly at the fish and leaf you held in your mouth before looking in the direction of the Snakerocks. You noticed Firepaw's fur was prickled and wondered what had him upset.

"Ravenpaw's late," Tigerclaw observed.

You felt anxiety course through you and Firepaw spoke your fears, "What if he's been bitten by an adder?"

"I will search for him if he doesn't return soon," Tigerclaw responded.

The four of you waited in silence, and you carefully placed the fish and herbs between your paws as your tail restlessly twitched. It was Firepaw that first scented Ravenpaw, and he jumped to his paws right before Ravenpaw leaped into the clearing. Seeing your friend you jumped up as well. He looked pleased, and dangling from his maw was an adder.

"Ravenpaw!" You shouted with relief.

"Are you okay?" Firepaw called out as Graypaw rushed forward to get a look at the snake.

"Did that bite you?" Graypaw spoke with awe in his voice.

"I was too quick for it!" Ravenpaw loudly purred, and you trotted forward to nuzzle him and admire the catch as well. Ravenpaw looked to Tigerclaw and the stern warrior blinked at him but then gave a nod of his head. If it was possible the normally shy apprentice looked even prouder.

"Come on," Tigerclaw started speaking, "Let's collect the rest of your prey and get back to camp."

.

..

.

The four of you entered camp behind Tigerclaw, each of you proud of your catches. You still carefully carried the herbs in your mouth, having put the leaves in between two pieces of prey to make sure you didn't accidentally crush them. Ravenpaw kept tripping over his snake, although it did nothing to lessen his pride. As your group emerged from the gorse tunnel some young kits had scrambled out the nursery to watch you all pass.

"Look! Apprentices back from hunting!" One of them, a tabby, spoke up. With him were a fluffy gray kit, a black kit, and a tortoiseshell kit.

"Isn't that the kittypet, Firepaw?" The gray one squeaked.

"Yeah! Look at his orange fur!" The black one mewed

"Mama said he's a good hunter," the tortoiseshell added. "He looks a bit like Lionheart, think he's good as him?"

You watched with a smile as Firepaw lifted his chin higher and you followed behind him and the others to to the Fresh-kill pile.

"An adder!" Graypaw mewed as the four of you dropped your prey into the pile. You tuned out the conversation the three started as you grabbed the leaves and ran off to Spottedleaf's den, walking through the fern tunnel and stopping in the small, grassy clearing. You took a deep a deep inhale, the herb filled air bringing a sense of calm over you. Hearing a cat come into the den Spottedleaf emerged from the cracked rock that she stored herbs in.

"Spottedleaf!" You eagerly called to the she-cat through the mouthful of leaves. You trotted to her and gently placed the herbs down in front of her. "I just got back from my assessment, I caught 6 things and this!" Your chest puffed out as you gestured to the leaves with your tail. "I recognized it from when you let me help sort herbs."

Spottedleaf's eyes softened and she let out a soft chuckle. "I'm glad to hear your assessment went well, (y/n), but you should focus on becoming a warrior."

You couldn't help but pout at that, "I can do both! You're the only medicine cat shouldn't we help you?"

Spottedleaf looked at you fondly and touched her nose to your head, "I appreciate the thought, but these were picked too early, they won't be as effective."

You immediately felt your body temperature rise, your pelt feeling hot as you backed away from Spottedleaf, ducking your head down and staring at your paws. "Oh...I- I'm sorry Spottedleaf."

Spottedleaf lightly laughed at your reaction, stepping forward and resting her head atop yours. "It's alright, (y/n), there's still plenty of this herb in our territory. There was no harm done. I appreciate you trying to help, next time I need help gathering herbs you'll be the first cat I go to."

Her words calmed your embarrassment and you stepped away, giving a bashful smile.

"Ok Spottedleaf, I promise I'll be the best helper you could ask for!"

"I know you will, now go, (y/n), join your friends."

You nodded to Spottedleaf before running out the den, making your way back to the stump. You saw your three friends laying beside the stump and talking. Graypaw was the first to see you and he perked up.

"(Y/n)! Guess what?" Graypaw's excited voice was infectious and you bounded over to him.

"What is it?"

"Bluestar said the four of us are going to the gathering!"

Chapter Text

When night came Bluestar gathered the cats going to the gathering and you all set out. You and your friends were excited, this would be your first time going, and the first gathering since WindClan's disappearance. The trip to the fourtrees was quick, and when you reached it you were in awe. The trees glowed in the moonlight, and were nothing like your memories of a dark and daunting place that held a fox in its shadows.

You overheard your friends talking as you scanned the clearing below, seeing many cats. There was a large tom with a broken jaw and you knew that had to be Silverstream's father, and leader of RiverClan, Crookedstar. Oakheart was next to him, looking irritated by something. There was a large, dark brown flat-faced tabby on the Great Rock. That had to be Brokenstar. Silverstream had described her father, and the leaders of ShadowClan and WindClan to you. And now seeing the cat you could tell she had given you a rather accurate description of him—although she couldn't stop throwing in how ugly he was the whole time. The only leader you didn't see was Tallstar, the black-and-white WindClan leader. You soon spotted Silverstream, the moonlight complimenting her shiny and sleek coat, making her seem to shine. Even among the other RiverClan cats she stood out. Seeing a friendly face let you know where you would be going when Bluestar gave the signal.

"This is a good opportunity to meet your enemies," Bluestar suddenly spoke, looking in the direction of you and your three friends, "Listen to them, remember what they look like and how they behave. There is a great deal to be learned from these meetings."

"And say little," Tigerclaw warned, "Don't give away anything that might be used against us once the moon has waned."

"Don't worry, we won't!" Firepaw hastily spoke up. You noticed there was a tenseness in Firepaw, one that Tigerclaw didn't reciprocate, as he met Tigerclaw's eyes.

Bluestar then stood, holding her tail high before flicking it from one side to the other. You rose with the rest of your Clan, and all of you bounded down into the Fourtrees. You lagged behind some, waiting to see what the others did. When the Clan paused at the edge of the clearing you slowed to a walk, moving closer to the front of the group. Bluestar was sniffing the air, and was about to nod when—

"(Y/n)!" You perked up at the familiar voice and saw Silverstream bounding towards you and the other ThunderClan cats.

"Silverstream!" You mewed happily, running to meet your friend. Excitement making you forget the warning you just received. And that technically, you shouldn't know Silverstream. You didn't notice the looks and reactions from the cats all around, Oakheart holding back his laughter with a paw over his mouth, or Tigerclaw's clear rage and Bluestar's muted anger. Her tail swishing back and forth in irritation. You and Silverstream gave each other a friendly nuzzle before the RiverClan cat stepped back to look you over.

"You look much better than last time!"

You purred in response but felt your pelt bristle at the icy voice that spoke your name and, with ears down and tail tucked, you turned to look back at Bluestar.

"How do you know a RiverClan cat?" Bluestar asked evenly, and you felt yourself shrink down at the intense stare both her and Tigerclaw were giving you. While Silverstream gave the two an annoyed look, brazenly placing herself in front of you.

"I can answer that," Spottedleaf stepped forward, making you relax a bit. "When (Y/n) got in a fight with the rogue," she gave Tigerclaw a pointed stare and he turned his head away from her. No one noticed the way Brokenstar perked up at that. "I took them to Sunningrocks to clean their wounds. I forgot moss and while searching for some Silverstream and her sister were patrolling, and when they saw (y/n), helped them clean off." Spottedleaf stopped next to the two of you and bowed her head to the RiverClan warrior, "I've been wanting to thank the two of you again, I'm sure (y/n) wouldn't have healed as quickly if it wasn't for the help."

Silverstream purred an "anytime!" and with the question answered tensions relaxed. You felt boneless, relief making your legs almost give out on you. You muttered a thank you to Spottedleaf and she let out a soft purr and gave a lick to your head before walking off. You watched as the other ThunderClan cats started to intermingle with the other Clans. Tigerclaw walked off with a group of warriors, Firepaw sneakily trailing after him, causing you to tilt your head. You knew you were going to get an earful later, if not from Bluestar, then definitely Tigerclaw. You hoped Firepaw wouldn't be spotted, knowing the other Clans would judge ThunderClan's apprentices with your actions alone.

Or use it as proof that outsiders shouldn't be welcome into Clan life.

You let out a snort and pushed the thought away. Looking for your other friends you saw Graypaw bounding off towards Lionheart, and Ravenpaw going towards other apprentices.

Using her tail, Silverstream tapped your shoulder, pulling you out of your thoughts. "Come on!" And walked off. You took one more look around before bounding after Silverstream, who led you to a group of cats who you could tell be scent were other RiverClan cats. You quickly recognized Vixenleap, who gave an irritated grunt at your presence, while a brown tabby next to her perked up.

"Finally! I get to meet the cat that had old Piketooth in a huff!"

Silverstream laughs and pointed to the cat that spoke, "That's Grasswhisker." You recalled Silverstream mentioning to you once before that she had two sisters, at the time named Vixenpaw and Grasspaw. You purred a 'Hello!' that Grasswhisker happily returned and you quickly became swept up in conversation with the small group of RiverClan cats.

During a lull in conversation you looked around, still partially listening to the cats. You noticed Firepaw finally reappear from behind the Great Rock, looking troubled.

'Did Tigerclaw notice him?'

You slipped away from the small group and made your way over to Firepaw.

"Is everything okay, Firepaw?" Firepaw grumbled, looking at his paws for a second before looking at you.

"During our assessment, I was sent to hunt near my old home. Tigerclaw saw me talking to Smudge, my old friend from when I was a kittypet. I know he had to do it on purpose" The two of you sat down, a bit of distance from the other cats as Firepaw continued to talk in a hushed voice. "Do you think...he doesn't trust me?" Firepaw hissed the last part, the fur along his spine slightly bristling in anger. Part of him felt he shouldn't speak on this, considering you were Tigerclaw's apprentice. But you were Firepaw's denmate. That should count for something!

You ran a paw over his back to settle his raised fur. And closed your eyes, opening them after thinking for a moment. "You remember where I was first found, right?" Firepaw nodded, "At Sunningrocks, and that was where I was sent to hunt. If Silverstream would have seen me she would've immediately called out to me. I dread to think of Tigerclaw's reaction!" You shuddered at the thought. "Don't forget we're both outsiders. I think a little suspicion and loyalty tests are warranted. Things are tense right now!"

Firepaw thought over your words before letting out a sigh. "You're right, and I do think it did me a favor. I was happy to see Smudge again but... it also made me realize that I wouldn't trade this life for anything." You saw the honesty in Firepaw's eyes and smiled.

"But I don't think you have to worry about Tigerclaw being suspicious of you," Firepaw continued to speak, and you tilted your head to the side. "I followed him to behind the Great Rock. He was bragging about you fighting the fox and the rogue and how you beat them!" Firepaw huffed and flopped over. "At this rate you'll become a warrior before any of us!"

Your chest puffed up and you let out a pleased purr at the thought. To be the youngest but first to be a warrior? You would boast for days!

"Careful Firepaw, you don't want to speak things into existence!" Noticing the smugness in your voice Firepaw gave you a flat look before his hind leg darted out, giving you a harsh jab to your side and causing you to fall over.

"Hey!"

Firepaw laughed at your startled shout and you couldn't help as you started to laugh too, standing up and shaking your fur out. Firepaw rose as well, stretching his back legs as you looked around. You saw Graypaw bounding away from Lionheart and a group of cats that also had Spottedleaf.

"Let's see where Graypaw's off to," Firepaw said and the two of you ran off to meet up with the gray apprentice.

"What's got you running from Lionheart?" You asked Graypaw as you and Firepaw reached him.

Graypaw gave an annoyed look. "Ugh, they were talking about the ancient Clans and when I said SpottyClan instead of LeopardClan Lionheart said I should pay more attention when elders tell stories, blah, blah, blah," with each 'blah' Graypaw exaggeratedly stuck his tongue out and tilted his head side-to-side, causing you to let out a huff of amusement. "I was on my way to see where Ravenpaw's gotten to."

The three of you then proceeded to make your way over to Ravenpaw, who was in the center of a group of apprentices as he was telling them stories. The three of you settled down towards the back, not wanting to interrupt Ravenpaw. Right now he was quite different from the anxious cat you were used to, voice clear and full of confidence.

"Well seems like someone has been paying attention to the elders" Firepaw whispered as he gave Graypaw a nudge. Ravenpaw in the middle of telling how TigerClan got their stripes. "At least (y/n) and I have the excuse of not being from the Clans, what your excuse, huh?" Graypaw let out a gasp of mock offense and pinched Firepaw, causing the orange tom to squirm away from him. You were barely able to hold back your laughs as you quietly hissed at the two to calm down.

There was suddenly a yowl calling for all the cats to be quiet. And as silence fell across the clearing you looked up towards the Great Rock, where three cats sat. Bluestar, Crookedstar, and Brokenstar.

"Surely they won't start the meeting without Tallstar?" Firepaw, hissed under his breath.

"I don't know," Graypaw muttered in response.

"Haven't you noticed?" A RiverClan apprentice next to Firepaw spoke up, "There isn't a single WindClan cat here."

There were hushed whispers among the cats as everyone settled beneath the Great Rock.

"We can't start yet," yowled One-Eye. "Where are the WindClan representatives? We must wait until all the Clans are present."

Bluestar stepped forward. "Cats of all Clans, welcome," she spoke, her voice clear. "It is true that WindClan is not present, but Brokenstar wishes to speak anyway."

Brokenstar then stepped up to stand beside Bluestar, surveying the crowd for a few moments, as if searching for something. His eyes reminded you of fire— nothing like Firepaw, whose fiery pelt and kind personality reminded you of a warm ray of sun on a cold day—but the kind that destroyed everything in its path. Brokenstar took a deep breath and began to speak. "Friends, I come to speak to you tonight about the needs of ShadowClan—"

But he was interrupted by cats among the crowd. From their voices you could tell they were elders.

"Where is Tallstar?"

"Where are the WindClan warriors?"

Brokenstar straightened himself to his full height, looking far more imposing as his tail lashed from side to side. "As the leader of ShadowClan, it is my right to address you here!" he yowled, voice full of menace. The cats fell into an uneasy silence, and there was fear in the air.

Brokenstar yowled again. "We all know that the hard time of leaf-bare, and late newleaf, have left us with little prey in our hunting grounds. WindClan, RiverClan, and ThunderClan lost many kits and queens in the freezing weather that came late this season. ShadowClan did not, we are hardened to the cold North Wind. Our kits are strong from the moment they are born. And so, we find ourselves with many mouths to feed and too little prey to feed them."

Everyone was silent as Brokenstar continued to speak.

"The needs of ShadowClan are simple. In order to survive we must increase our hunting territory. That is why I insist that you allow ShadowClan warriors to hunt in your territories."

Growls of shock rippled through the crowd, your own pelt bristling in unease.

"Share our hunting grounds?" Tigerclaw called out, voice outraged.

"It is unprecedented!" cried a queen from RiverClan. "The Clans have never shared hunting rights!"

"Should ShadowClan be punished because we thrive?" Yowled Brokenstar from the Great Rock. "Do you want us to watch our young starve? You must share what you have with us."

“Must!” Smallear spat furiously from somewhere behind you.

“Must,” repeated Brokenstar. “WindClan failed to understand this. In the end, we were forced to drive them out of their territory.”

Snarls of outrage burst from the crowd, but Brokenstar let out a loud caterwaul. “And if we have to, we will drive you all from your hunting grounds in order to feed our hungry kits.”

The threat caused immediate silence. And there was a nagging in your brain. You don’t know how or when but you had experience with the likes of Brokenstar before. Those who would use children as scapegoats for their own greed.

Satisfied that he had every cat's attention, Brokenstar continued. "Each year, the Twolegs spoil more of our territory. At least one Clan must remain strong, if all the Clans are to survive. ShadowClan thrives while you all struggle. And there may come a time when you will need us to protect you."

"You doubt our strength?" Tigerclaw hissed. His amber eyes glaring at the ShadowClan leader, his claws unsheathing as his shoulders rippled with tension.

"I do not ask for your answer now," Brokenstar ignored the challenge, and you noticed the way Tigerclaw's tail thrashed at the disrespect. "You must each go away and consider my words. But bear this in mind: Would you prefer to share your prey, or be driven out and left homeless and starving?"

Cats of ThunderClan and RiverClan looked to each other in disbelief. In the anxious quiet that had followed Brokenstar's words, Crookedstar stepped forward. "I have already agreed to allow ShadowClan some hunting rights in the river that runs through our territory," he said quietly.

You could sense the horror and humiliation that rippled through the RiverClan cats.

"We were not consulted!" A RiverClan cat cried out, voice full of indignation.

"I feel that this is best for our Clan. For all the Clans," Crookedstar explained, voice full of resignation. "There are plenty of fish in the river. It is better to share our prey than to spill blood fighting over it."

"And what of ThunderClan?" Smallear croaked. "Bluestar? Have you, too, agreed to this outrageous demand?"

Bluestar met the old cat's gaze. "I have made no agreement with Brokenstar except that I shall discuss his proposal with my Clan after the Gathering."

You faintly overhead Graypaw mutter something in Firepaw's ear.

Brokenstar spoke up again, his voice arrogant and strong after Crookedstar's surrender. "I also bring news that is important to the safety of your kits. A ShadowClan cat has turned rogue and spurned the warrior code. We chased her out of our camp, but we do not know where she is now. She looks like a mangy old creature, but she has a bite like TigerClan."

You couldn't help the unease you felt, you were certain all of ThunderClan knew who he was speaking of.

"She is dangerous. I warn you—do not offer shelter to her. And"—Brokenstar paused dramatically, making you want to roll your eyes—"until she is caught and killed, I urge you to keep a close eye on your kits."

Nervous growls rippled through the ThunderClan cats, and although you didn't have much experience with the she-cat, being injured most of the time and all, you never felt any murderous intent from her. If anything you were more certain of Brokenstar being a danger to kits.

The ShadowClan warriors began to push their way out of the throng of cats. Brokenstar leaped down from the rock, and his warriors immediately surrounded him and escorted him away from Fourtrees, back into ShadowClan territory. The remaining ShadowClan cats followed quickly behind. But one thing that stood out were the apprentices—they looked tiny and undernourished, more like kits than full-fledged apprentices.

You faintly recalled a book with pictures of cats. ShadowClan's "apprentices" reminding you of the big-headed kits. And you instinctively knew, those were kits. But after the thought you tried desperately to recall what a book was, and how life-like creatures were on the....wood? But it couldn't be wood. It was too light and flexible for that.

Despite RiverClan's own problems Silverstream pushed through the throng of cats, calling your name. You turned to look at her.

"The cat Brokenstar was talking about, is that the one that attacked you?" You could hear the anger in her voice and knew if she ever came across your attacker she'd rip him to shreds. Which in reality would be impossible, since he was d—

Nope.

Not thinking about that.

Your eyes had glazed over for a minute but you shook yourself. "No, the cat that attacked me was a tom. He was chased off to the Twoleg dens and hasn't been scented since." Silverstream's eyes darted back and forth, searching your own for any kind of deceit. Finding none she sighed and seemed to relax and stepped back.

"Alright, well I have to go. Try not to get injured again alright?"

"I'll try my best. I hope everything works out with your Clan." Silverstream thanked you before disappearing into the crowd

Tuning back in to the conversations happening among your own Clan you picked up on Darkstripe's voice.

"”I tried to tell you she was a danger to us,” he hissed. “Bluestar has to listen to reason now and get rid of her before she harms any of our young!"

You noticed Firepaw slowly backing away.

Tigerclaw strode up to the group. “We must return to camp at once and deal with this rogue!” he yowled.

With Tigerclaw’s yowl the young tom darted up the hillside, away from the group. You kept quiet as your pelt prickled with unease. Was he rushing to protect Yellowfang? Or did he feel guilt for being the one that found her?

Chapter Text

With the gathering over, and riled up ThunderClan cats, Bluestar began to lead the way back to camp. You, Graypaw, and Ravenpaw took up the rear, and while running in-between the two you couldn't help but to voice your thoughts.

"Did you see Firepaw run off?"

"Yes, I think he ran to warn Yellowfang." Graypaw replied with a huff, "He really cares for her."

You let out a hum as the three of you raced after your clanmates. So he wanted to keep her safe.

"I don't think anyone noticed, will you tell Tigerclaw?" Ravenpaw asked, voice nervous. You could tell that both of your friends were tense, waiting for your answer.

From what Spottedleaf told you Yellowfang was a warrior turned medicine cat. And even from a distance anyone could tell her age. She had to be with ShadowClan a long time. it just seemed illogical that now she would decide to hurt kits. Especially as a medicine cat. Spottedleaf spoke highly of her. And Brokenstar, from what Silverstream told you, hadn't been leader for long. And those "apprentices" were nothing more than kits a few moons old. With the threats made tonight it was clear to you who the enemy was. And maybe, the tom wanted to get rid of a cat that knew so many ShadowClan secrets.

"No."

You left it at that, you weren't sure what the right option was, if there was any. But you could understand Firepaw's strong will and didn't want to betray the trust he showed you earlier that night by ratting him out to Tigerclaw. Besides, it was a decision Bluestar should be making.

"Whew!"

Graypaw's relief caused you to snort, and you noticed the sigh Ravenpaw also let out. Just like earlier tonight, you hoped Firepaw wouldn't get caught. Him being Bluestar's apprentice would save him from Tigerclaw's scolding but not his overall irritation. The mess made you want to scream.

It wasn't long before the cats ahead began to disappear from view, down the ravine in a rush. The scents of fear, anxiety, and aggression were certainly overwhelming, and you stopped at the top of the ravine as Ravenpaw and Graypaw bounded down. But noticing you didn't follow the two stopped to look back up at you.

You were standing atop the ravine, looking at the moon. Alone at the top, you didn’t feel the emotions of your clanmates as strongly. A breath of fresh air.

But then there was a shout of your name, and you scrambled down to join your friends. Ignoring the anxiety that came with.

When you came down the two started going through the tunnel, and you followed.

As the three of you came into camp Firepaw immediately made his way over to the three of you.

"You went to warn Yellowfang, didn't you?" Graypaw whispered when Firepaw reached your small group.

"I did," Firepaw admitted, "But she won't leave, she trusts Bluestar to treat her fairly. Did anyone miss me?"

Firepaw looked at you out of the corner of his eye. You almost wanted to smack the three. You were Tigerclaw's apprentice not his minion!

"Only us," Ravenpaw replied.

"And I'm not telling Tigerclaw anything," You growled out, irritation clear. You didn't mean to but seriously. Your three friends faltered and Firepaw ducked his head.

"Uh, sorry." You just huffed in response to Firepaw's apology.

Around the camp cats began to wake up, having to have scented the aggression and tension in the voices of the returning cats, for they all came running to the clearing, their tails high.

"What has happened?" A tabby warrior named Runningwind called.

"Brokenstar has demanded hunting rights for ShadowClan in our territory!" Longtail yowled loud enough for all the cats to hear.

"And he warned us about a rogue cat who will harm our kits!" Willowpelt added. "It must be Yellowfang!"

Meows of anger and distress rose from the crowd.

"Silence!" Bluestar ordered as she leaped onto Highrock. Cats below coming closer for the impromptu meeting.

A loud screech made every cat turn their heads towards the fallen tree where the elders slept. Tigerclaw and Darkstripe were dragging Yellowfang roughly from her nest. The old cat shrieked furiously as they hauled her into the clearing and dumped her in front of the Highrock. You noticed Firepaw tense, eyes blazing to life, he dropped into a crouch ready to strike.

You couldn't help the low hiss you let out at his actions.

"Wait, Firepaw," Graypaw growled into Firepaw's ear. "Let Bluestar deal with this."

"What is going on?" At Bluestar's words your attention was drawn back to the leader, who jumped down from Highrock and gave Tigerclaw and Darkstripe an intense glare. "I gave no order to attack our prisoner."

You were quickly reminded of the power Bluestar held over ThunderClan as Tigerclaw and Darkstripe instantly dropped Yellowfang. The old cat crouched in the dust, hissing and spitting.

Frostfur then appeared from the nursery and pushed her way to the front of the crowd. "We got back in time," she gasped, "The kits are safe!"

"Of course they are!" Bluestar snapped.

Frostfur was taken aback. "But...you are going to throw Yellowfang out, aren't you?" She asked Bluestar, blue eyes wide with worry.

"Throw her out? We should kill her now!" Darkstripe spat as he unsheathed his claws.

Bluestar gave Darkstripe a piercing look. "And what has she done?" The icy calm in her voice reminded you of earlier when she questioned you for knowing a RiverClan cat. And you shuddered.

“You were at the Gathering! Brokenstar said she—” Darkstripe began.

“Brokenstar said only that there is a rogue in the woods,” Bluestar countered, her voice menacingly quiet. “He did not mention Yellowfang by name, and the kits are safe. For as long as she is in my Clan, Yellowfang will not be harmed.”

Everyone was quiet, and Firepaw went slack with relief, a sigh coming from him.

Yellowfang looked to Bluestar, narrowing her eyes in respect. “I will leave now, if you wish it, Bluestar.”

“There is no need,” Bluestar replied. “You have done nothing wrong. You will be safe here.” Bluestar then lifted her head to gaze at the crowd.

“It is time we discussed the real threat to our Clan: Brokenstar. We have already begun to prepare for an attack by ShadowClan,” Bluestar began. “We’ll carry on with those preparations, and increase border patrols. WindClan has gone. RiverClan has given hunting rights to ShadowClan. ThunderClan stands alone against Brokenstar.”

You could sense the energy coming from the other ThunderClan cats. All of you were ready to fight.

“Then we’re not going to agree to Brokenstar’s demands?” Tigerclaw asked, satisfaction in his eyes.

“Clans have never shared hunting rights before,” Bluestar answered. “We have always managed to support ourselves in our own territories. There is no reason this should change.”

Tigerclaw nodded in approval.

“But can we defend ourselves against a ShadowClan attack?” Smallear asked, a shake in his voice. “WindClan didn’t manage it, RiverClan won’t even try!”

Bluestar met his old eyes with a steady gaze. “We must try. We will not give up our territory without a fight.”

All around cats nodded in agreement.

“I shall travel to the Moonstone tomorrow,” Bluestar announced. “The warriors of StarClan will give me the strength I need to lead ThunderClan during these dark times. You must all get some rest. There is much to do when daylight comes. I wish to talk with Redtail now.” Without another word, she turned and strode towards her den.

You watched as a buzz of excitement filled the air, and cats started to gather in groups.

“What’s the Moonstone?” Firepaw asked Graypaw, you turned to listen in, curious as well.

“It’s a rock deep underground that shines in the dark,” Graypaw whispered with awe in his voice. “All Clan leaders have to spend one night at the Moonstone when they’re first chosen. There, the spirits of StarClan share with them.”

“Share what with them?” Firepaw asked.

Graypaw frowned. “I don’t know, I know only that the new leaders have to sleep near the stone. After that they have the gift of nine lives, and take the name ‘star.”

You noticed Firepaw’s attention shift to Yellowfang, and looking at her you noticed her limping. You felt bad for the old cat. Lingering for a moment before joining Firepaw and Graypaw making their way to the apprentice den. Ravenpaw tagging behind with a yawn. You could sense the anxiety in him.

“So what happened?” Dustpaw eagerly spoke up as he popped his head out of the den. Much different than the often rude cat you were used to. But then again, he and Sandpaw loved gossip.

“It’s like Longtail said. Brokenstar demanded hunting rights…” Graypaw began, Sandpaw and Dustpaw listening eagerly. Ravenpaw slinked his way into the den, and you looked around, seeing Bluestar and Redtail talking urgently outside the leader’s den.

You turned your attention back to your denmates, thinking of following Ravenpaw to sleep, but out of the corner of your eye you noticed Redtail approaching. It seemed Firepaw and Sandpaw did as well, and Sandpaw straightened up as the deputy approached.

“It seems that Firepaw, Graypaw, Ravenpaw, and (Y/N) are about to reach another important stage in their training.”

“What’s that?” Graypaw asked, looking excited.

“Bluestar wishes you four to accompany her to the Moonstone!” You flashed a look towards Sandpaw and Dustpaw, Dustpaw’s disappointment clear. Sandpaw’s was only a brief moment, before she shook herself and sat up straighter. Her mouth a thin line and face betraying nothing. Redtail turned to address the two.

“Don’t worry, you two; you’ll make the journey soon. For now ThunderClan needs your strength. I will be here as well.” Redtail then turned his attention back to you, Firepaw, and Graypaw. “She wants you to rest for now, but first go to Spottedleaf for traveling herbs. It’s a long journey, past WindClan’s territory. The herbs will give you strength and keep your hunger at bay.”

Graypaw nodded and Redtail looked around before speaking up.

“Where’s Ravenpaw?”

“He’s in his nest already,” Firepaw replied.

“That’s fine, leave him to sleep. One of you three can fetch herbs for him. Afterwards sleep, you leave at dawn.” He left with a flick of his tail, walking back towards Bluestar’s den.

After he left Sandpaw spoke up. “Well then, you’d better go and see Spottedleaf.” You looked at Sandpaw, her voice was quiet and emotionless, her eyes seeming glazed over. Dustpaw nudged her before going back into the den, Sandpaw following.

You put the information in the back of your head, instead focusing on your new task. You turned and ran towards Spottedleaf’s den, hearing your two friends behind you. Going into the fern tunnel, the excitement of today left you, and instead there was a calm feeling. The tunnel was quick to open up, and the clearing was lit by moonlight. Spottedleaf smiled as the three of you approached.

“You have come for the traveling herbs?”

“Yes, please,” Firepaw answered. “And I think Yellowfang needs more poppy seeds, she seems to be feeling her wounds.”

“I will take her some after you have gone. Your traveling herbs are ready.”

Spottedleaf pointed with her tail to four bundles. “Enough for the four of you. The dark green herb will stop hunger pangs during the journey. The other will give you strength. Eat them just before you leave. They’re not fresh prey, but the taste won’t last long.”

Thanks Spottedleaf,” Firepaw purred as he picked up one of the bundles. Graypaw picked up two and then you stepped forward. But seeing both Graypaw and Spottedleaf, you were reminded of earlier in the night and looked to Spottedleaf.

“So, thoughts on SpottyClan?”

Graypaw gave a snort, almost causing himself to choke on the two bundles he had in his mouth. Spottedleaf gave you a flat look and flicked you with her tail, causing you to giggle as you picked up your bundle of herbs.

Having gathered the herbs the three of you turned to head back through the tunnel.

“Good luck!” Spottedleaf called out to the three of you. “Travel safely.”

The three of you made it to the apprentice den, and Firepaw and Graypaw dropped their bundles as they began to talk. You grabbed the second bundle Graypaw had been carrying before slipping past the two and into the den, making your way to the back where Ravenpaw lay, already asleep. You carefully laid the herbs down before curling up next to him and letting sleep overtake you.

Chapter Text

You awoke to the sound of Tigerclaw’s voice, barely registering his growled ‘Wake the others’ before shooting up in excitement.

Today you and your friends would be going to the Moonstone!

You eagerly turned towards Ravenpaw and started nudging him, it was harsher than what you usually did, but your excitement could barely be contained. Ravenpaw awoke, groggy and with a loud yawn.

Firepaw woke Graypaw and after a quick explanation to Ravenpaw the four of you were outside the den. The sky glowing as the sun was just beginning to rise. The air had a chill now, but you could tell it’d be a warm day once the sun rose.

You and your three friends quickly ate the traveling herbs. Tigerclaw and Bluestar already ready to leave, watching the four of you.

“Ugh!” Graypaw complained, “I knew they’d be bitter. Why couldn’t we eat a fat, juicy mouse instead?”

“These herbs will keep your hunger at bay longer,” Bluestar began, “And will make you strong. We have a long journey ahead of us.”

You kept quiet, honestly not minding the bitterness and finding it overall tasty.

“Have you eaten yours already?” Firepaw asked Bluestar.

“I cannot eat if I’m going to share dreams with StarClan at the Moonstone tonight,” Bluestar replied.

The six of you went through the gorse tunnel and out of the camp, just as Lionheart was returning with a patrol.

“Safe journey.”

Bluestar nodded. “I know I can trust you and the other senior warriors to keep the camp safe,” she responded.

Lionheart then turned to look at Graypaw, dipping his head. “Remember, you are almost a warrior. Don’t forget what I have taught you.”

Graypaw looked back to his mentor with affection. “I will always remember, Lionheart,” he said as he nudged his head against Lionheart’s flank.

After that the six of you were off, retracing the route to Fourtrees as it was the quickest way to WindClan territory. You felt relief at not having to confront the “Thunderpath”. Your group went down into the clearing, the smell of last night’s Gathering still lingering in the air. It was quick and easy to pass through the grassy clearing, and you began to make your way up the bushy slope, into WindClan territory. The slope becoming steeper as you all climbed, and soon, rockier. Leaving you all to jump boulder to boulder up a craggy cliff face.

Tigerclaw was the first to reach the top, pausing and turning around, ensuring you and your friends made it up safely.

Once at the top, the ground was flattened into a wide plateau, a steady wind blowing. There was a faint, unfamiliar cat scent lingering. You figured it had to be WindClan scent. But much stronger was the scent of ShadowClan. Despite this you were in awe of the fields, colorful plant life sprouting at random intervals. The most noticeable being the purple of the heather.

But the wildflowers also caught your attention. Random reds, yellows, purples, and soft baby blues that reminded you of something. You couldn’t remember what exactly. But it felt strongly of another life, in a different time, with grayer skies and things far more dangerous than ShadowClan cats. And a voice rang in your ears.

‘Hey, you’re finally awake.’

You violently shuddered and shook the thought away, your harsh movements catching Ravenpaw’s attention. He pressed into your side with a calming purr.

“All Clans are entitled to safe passage to the Moonstone, but ShadowClan seems to no longer respect for the warrior code, so be alert,” Bluestar warned. “We mustn’t hunt outside our territory. We’ll follow the warrior code, even if ShadowClan doesn’t.”

You all then set off across the plateau as the sun rose in the sky, following tracks through the heather. It was a different feeling, running through the open air with the sun beating on your back. It was enjoyable, and with the breeze you felt as if you could live on WindClan territory yourself. You looked next to you and noticed Ravenpaw seemed to be just at ease as you.

Suddenly Tigerclaw stopped dead. “Watch out!” he hissed. “I smell a ShadowClan patrol.”

At this all of you lifted your noses to sniff. And fresh ShadowClan scent was being carried by the wind.

“They are upwind. They won’t know we are here if we keep moving,” Bluestar spoke, “But we must hurry. If they are ahead they’ll detect us. But it’s not far to the edge of WindClan territory now.

You all moved quickly, now rushing to avoid detection. Leaping over rocks and pushing through the sweet-smelling heather. You noticed how every few steps Firepaw would sniff the air and glance over his shoulder, and Ravenpaw was constantly sniffing. Both on the alert for ShadowClan. But gradually the odor grew fainter and fainter, causing you all to relax some.

Finally reaching the edge of the uplands, the landscape had a dramatic change. Now altered beyond recognition by humans. Wide earth tracks crisscrossing green and golden meadows, and the land dotted with small woods and houses scattered among the fields.

But in the distance you saw a familiar path. A streak of gray standing out against its colorful surroundings.

“Is that the Thunderpath?” Firepaw asked.

“Yes,” Bluestar spoke, “It runs up from ShadowClan territory. Can you see the Highstones behind it?”

You and your friends looked at the distant horizon, where the land rose sharply up to a point, jagged and barren.

“Does this mean we have to cross the ro—the, the Thunderpath.” You voice had a hoarseness to it, and you could already feel your legs shaking just staring at it in the distance.

“Yep,” Graypaw responded, voice vastly different from yours. Filled with confidence and sounding almost happy.

“Come on!” Bluestar spoke as she bounded forward, “We can be there by moonrise as long as we keep up the pace.”

You all followed behind Bluestar, you taking up the rear. Tigerclaw fell behind until he was keeping pace with you.

“Relax, (y/n),” he hissed at you. You could only nod your head, your mind buzzing with anxiety and leaving you unfocused. Tigerclaw wasn’t satisfied with your response but could do nothing but huff as he kept alert.

Entering the territory of humans, referring to them as such was jarring, it was full of much more life than WindClan’s territory. Your group stayed near the hedges and were now walking. Tigerclaw this time being the one in the rear, making sure you didn’t fall behind. You could smell prey-scent from the bushes, but the herbs kept the hunger away. Sights and smells assaulted your nose. Things you felt you shouldn’t know, but did. Words the Clan cats wouldn’t recognize flooding your brain. These things, ‘proper terms’ your subconscious told you, came naturally. You knew them much deeper than anything the Clan cats told you. And it was another jarring reminder that you had a life before this.

Skirting a house that stood on white stone—‘Flagstone’ your brain once again spoke up, with sheds around the edges. Keeping low, all of you crept past the fence that surrounded it. A sudden barrage of snarls and barks causing you all to spin around.

Firepaw was quick to arch his back, fur bristling from nose to tail. While Tigerclaw padded forward and peered through the fence. “It’s all right, they’re tied up!”

You looked through the fence too, looking at the dogs scrabbling against the stone. They were desperate, a strong killing intent coming off them in waves. Hunting dogs. You remembered something. Pictures of them in more of those things made of light and bendable wood.

There was a shout that startled you out of your thoughts. As clear as day you understood it. “Shut up!” But it wasn’t spoken by the cats around you, and, the dogs listened. Quieting down to grumbles. You moved on.

The sun was beginning to set, your nerves becoming more and more on edge the stronger the smells and the rumbles of the Thunderpath became. And Tigerclaw was next to you, trying to keep you calm.

But as you got closer, you could only freeze as the fumes caused a stinging in your eyes and throat. The road still terrifying you. A distant burning once again along your pelt.

All of you were in the bushes, just ahead the Thunderpath stretching out, the smell of oil and gasoline strong and the disorganized rumbles once again overtaking your senses. While you had managed to finish seeing the territory, Tigerclaw still couldn’t get you used to the Thunderpath in the short amount of time. And now here it was. A glaring reminder to the both of you.

“Since this is the first time of crossing for you four, pay attention closely, I will show you how it’s done.” You could hear the smooth confidence of Bluestar’s voice, and she stared at you as she spoke. Ravenpaw and Graypaw went to your side, both pressing against you with low purrs.

You watched as Bluestar padded to the edge of the road, looking both ways. She was calm as one monster after another flew past and ruffled her fur. Then, when the roars of motors paused for a moment. She raced across to the other side.

You held your breath as she ran, and let out a sigh of relief when she safely made it across. To the surprise of all of you it was Ravenpaw that rose next, there was a fear-scent from him, but he moved with confidence as he turned towards you. “See you on the other side?”

You couldn’t even nod your head.

Ravenpaw looked sad then shook himself, turning back towards the road. He did as Bluestar had, looking both ways. A car was speeding down the road, causing Ravenpaw to shrink back, but as soon as it was past him he darted out. A car raced past in the opposite direction, throwing up dust where Ravenpaw had just been.

You were now openly panting in a panic. Graypaw gave you a nudge as he got up. His crossing easy thanks to a temporary lull.

Lucky fucker.

Tigerclaw nodded to Firepaw, “Go on then.” Firepaw looked at him, you, the Thunderpath, and then walked out from the bushes, waiting at the edge like Bluestar had done. You watched as another car started to approach, not realizing you were holding your breath. Looking at the car, you noticed, and it seemed Firepaw did too, that the car had veered off the road. Heading straight for him. You panicked as Firepaw leaped backward, claws out. The car almost hit him, only missing by a whisker. Firepaw was in a crouch, trembling, and you were about to call out to him but he scrambled up, darting across the road through a lull.

You heard Graypaw loudly exclaim from the other side. And saw Firepaw turn to look across the road. It was just you and Tigerclaw now.

“We can cross together,” Tigerclaw gave you a nudge, trying to move you from the spot you were anchored in. But another car went past, this time letting out a loud honk, and it caused you to jump back. Tigerclaw was quick to turn towards you.

“I...I can’t! Tigerclaw I’m sorry!” Your eyes were still wide, you now shaking all over. It was then Bluestar reappeared, giving you a look over before sighing.

“(Y/n) must go back.” You were startled out of your thoughts by Bluestar’s words.

“Bluestar, they can—” With a wave of her tail Bluestar silenced Tigerclaw, whose eyes showed a light panic.

“No, Tigerclaw. Now is not the time for risks.” Tigerclaw grit his teeth, letting out a low growl before sighing and looking at you.

“’m… sorry Tigerclaw…” Your eyes were wet with unshed tears as you felt shame, and Tigerclaw softened as he approached you, nuzzling the top of your head. “No, Bluestar is right. You’ve done nothing wrong.”

You gave the two a guilty look. But already, despite the shame, being even this small of a distance away from the road you felt your senses coming back.

“Tigerclaw, take—”

“No.”

Both cats looked at you in shock as you spoke up. Your voice still wavering, but your forced yourself to stand straight, ignoring the shake in your legs as another car went past.

“I can make it back on my own. I know I can! I already caused enough trouble.”

Bluestar’s eyes narrowed and you bowed your head.

“Please trust me. I….the Thunderpath scares me. But I know I can handle the journey back.”

“Tigerclaw, do you think your apprentice is capable.”

You looked towards your mentor at that, and seeing the determination in your eyes he nodded his head.

“Very well, we’ll see you when we return.” With that Bluestar disappeared, leaving to cross the road again. And Tigerclaw approached, wrapping you in a hug that you didn’t expect.

“Be safe, I better see you at camp when we return.” You nuzzled into him, purring out an ‘I will be!’ before he let you go and ruffled the fur on top of your head.

Then he was gone as well. And you were left alone.

Chapter Text

Despite the kind words from Bluestar and Tigerclaw you still felt the heat of humiliation. You had the urge to turn around. To prove yourself capable of making it to the Moonstone. And you also couldn’t ignore the jealousy that burned your pelt. It felt as if fate were laughing at you. Just last night Firepaw was lamenting the possibility of you becoming a warrior before all of them. But now here you were, too pathetic to cross a road. You grit your teeth. Tigerclaw had to be embarrassed.

No.

You shook the thoughts away.

After all, wouldn’t this also be a good test? You would be going back to ThunderClan on your own, from beyond WindClan territory, while ShadowClan was making a mess of everything. Even if you couldn’t cross the road, this would still be proof of you being useful. There was no road to fear in ThunderClan territory after all! Crossing the road would be a battle left for another day.

You stretched, preparing yourself for the journey. You could do this!

You retraced your steps, following the scents of you and your clanmates. It made things much easier, and you made sure to keep to the hedges like before. The farmhouse was in the distance, and you were about to leap through a fence, out of the cornfield, when you heard a “Stop right there!”

Your pelt immediately bristled as you scanned the area. The call felt unfinished. Your mind supplying a ‘where have I seen you before?’ Once again reminding of a different life, grayer skies. Stuck in a conversation you couldn’t leave. Accusations of crimes you did commit. But bounty too low for the guards to care.

Like the last time such thoughts came to you, you shuddered, just as a stout black-and-white cat appeared from the other side of the fence.

No Clan scent. They had to be a rogue.

“I’m just passing through,” you spat at the cat, pelt bristling.

“I mean no harm,” the cat started to speak, his voice level. “There are dogs here, you should go through the cornfields, not the yard.”

“But they’re tied up.”

At your words, the cat sniffed the air, scenting you out, before his eyes flashed with recognition.

“What’s a ThunderClan cat doing all the way out here?”

You were shocked the cat knew of your Clan. “I—,” should you be telling a rogue this? What if he was working for ShadowClan? “Um…”

Seeing your unwillingness to talk the tom shrugged. “My name is Barley. The dogs are let loose at night, to guard the Twoleg’s nest. The cornfield is safer.”

You nodded your head and took a step back from the fence. “Okay… thank you Barley.” The cat nodded his head and you looked away, left conflicted. Should you?

You let out a sigh as you looked back to Barley and spoke up again. “I- my clanmates. They will be heading this way too. I’m not sure when but… when you see them, could you let them know? About the dogs?”

You shot the cat a hopeful look and he blinked at you before nodding. “I can do that. I’m guessing you’re an apprentice then? Trip to the Moonstone with Bluestar? I don’t recall a cat ever being sent back alone.” He looked at you with curiosity. Which only reminded you of your failure to cross the Thunderpath.

“First time for everything,” you grunted.

Barley could tell you didn’t want to speak on it. “All right, but you just watch yourself.” You turned, pelt bristling. Your mind again “finishing” his sentence with a ‘Next time, I might not be so lenient.’ Another threat from a different life. It wasn’t Barley. But the voice sounded so similar to his, and you were grumbling as you trotted back into the cornfields, leaving the farm cat behind.

You were nervous, planning to retrace your steps through scent. You had considered asking Barley for help but went against it. This was something you said you could do on your own. And Barley’s comment was a sour reminder of the Thunderpath. And those weird thoughts of harmless words reminding you of threatening ones. Thankfully, the cornfield wasn’t too difficult. There was a dip in the ground, a ditch it seemed. But you avoided it. Keeping closer to the fence you were able to make your way through quite easy. And sure enough, the dogs were loose. You shuddered, hopefully Barley would warn your clanmates.

You continued, muscles burning with tiredness. But you couldn’t stop now, not until you were safe in Camp. It wasn’t long before you were once again at the outskirts of WindClan’s territory. You sniffed the air, trying to smell for any ShadowClan cats. But the wind was against you this time. You’d have to play it safe. You pushed through the heather, jumping atop boulders when you could to scan the area, eyes alert for stalks of heather that moved unnaturally or ShadowClan scent, but it was largely uneventful.

Until you were almost to Fourtrees.

It was then you heard movement, smelled ShadowClan, and you hunkered down, ignoring the burn of your muscles. Hoping the ShadowClan cats wouldn’t scent you. You strained your ears to listen, eyes widening when you heard the voices.

“ThunderClan scent!”

“We gotta tell Brokenstar!”

The voices were so young. 

“Hah! Not even the warriors reported this. We’ll definitely earn our warrior names for noticing!”

You felt sick. But an idea quickly formed in your head.

“Don’t be so sure about that,” you growled as you stalked out of the tall grass. The kits jumped in alarm, eyes wide and claws unsheathed.

“Do you think you’re gonna stop us?” One of them hissed. Both were only skin and bones, obviously starving. Even better for you.

You sat back and began to clean a paw. “No. I won’t. But, I don’t think Brokenstar would be too happy if you reported to him now, would he?”

Both kits tilted their heads in confusion. “Why wouldn’t he?” The second one spoke up this time.

You stood, chest puffed out and doing everything you could to look even bigger.

“Because, ThunderClan scent is now fresh. I’m sure he won’t be happy to know two of his potential warriors didn’t stop to fight me.”

The kits looked alarmed, and ready to fight. But there was a clear difference that even they could notice. Not only were you bigger, you were well-fed and had the muscle to prove it. And the two started to tremble.

“But we...we can’t just not report it!” One of them squeaked, there was clear fear in his eyes and you couldn’t help the guilt you felt.

“Then wait!” You offered the suggestion to the kits. “Leave, and don’t report me yet. After I’m gone you can come back, and then report it. That way your scent is fresh while mine isn't!”

The kits turned their backs to you, talking in hushed, excited whispers and glancing back every so often. They then turned back to you, giving excited nods. “That’s a great idea! Thank you!” You gave the two a smile as they moved out of your way, allowing you past. You didn’t hesitate to run past them, and start making your way down the slope and into Fourtrees.

You felt sick.

Brokenstar had to go.

Hopefully your idea would work, and the kits wouldn’t be punished. And there was a new silver lining to you returning. Your scent and pawprints would make it obvious you’re returning to ThunderClan. Hopefully that would cause ShadowClan to falter. Or... maybe they would see it as a challenge, ThunderClan trespassing on WindClan territory so soon after Brokenstar’s threat.

Entering Fourtrees you passed the Great Rock before stopping to look up at it. Here by yourself, you remembered the dream you had. A cat, Doestar, giving ‘you’ a prophecy about Tigerclaw. But unlike the dream, the moon was shining, illuminating the clearing. You pushed the thought away as you continued walking through, forcing yourself up the slope and finally into ThunderClan territory.

It was as you were passing the Owl Tree that you heard noise, causing you to pause. You sniffed the air, only ThunderClan scent. And so you started to pad forward, quiet and curious. You peered through some bushes.

There was a cat, alone and sniffling with their ears flat against their head. The moonlight shined down, highlighting the wet fur on their cheeks.

It was Sandpaw.

“Sandpaw! What’s wrong?” Seeing her in distress made you forget your own tiredness as you pushed through the bushes. Sandpaw jumped and let out a startled hiss.

Oops.

“What are you doing here?” She snarled with a glare. But she was still crying and her legs were still trembling.

“That doesn’t matter, what’s wrong?”

She grit her teeth. “It’s nothing an outsider would understand,” she spat at you.

Ouch. But it was obvious she was deflecting. So you bounded over.

“Try me, Sandpaw,” You replied with a hopeful look on your face. She sneered and looked away, but you had saw the sadness and tears in her eyes. “Please, Sandpaw. We’re clanmates and… if it’ll help...the reason I’m back is because I was too cowardly to cross the Thunderpath.” You felt the embarrassment come back. And a fear. Would she hold it over your head instead of seeing it as an olive branch?

Sandpaw’s eyes widened in shock before she let out a ‘tch’. “Fine. If you want to know that bad I…” She sat down and flicked some dirt off herself with her tail, “It’s just...it’s not fair.”

You sat next to her as you waited for her to continue.

“First Firepaw comes along, and then you, and then all I hear is talk about how you fought off a fox and a rogue on your own! And then Firepaw helps an outsider and is rewarded! With Bluestar becoming his mentor!” Sandpaw snarled as she stood up, pacing back and forth as she finally let loose her frustrations. “Bluestar has only ever taken the children of deputies as her apprentice! Redtail is my father! Everyone was so sure that I would be under Bluestar, but I’m not. And Redtail never gives me any attention he just always focuses on Ravenpaw! And Whitestorm is my mentor but he seems more concerned with you lately! And now me and Dustpaw were left behind while the four of you went to the Moonstone! And I understand why! It’s just...I just…”

Sandpaw finally stopped her pacing and crouched with her back turned to you, body shaking as she started to cry again. You got up and approached, crouching down next to her, letting out a low purr in hopes to calm her.

“You’ve been holding that in a long time huh?”

Sandpaw laughed lightly, but it was in a self-deprecating way. “I...yea. Maybe it’s just proof I’m not ready to be a warrior.”

“No,” you shook your head before pressing closer to Sandpaw,” You put yourself to the side for the needs of the Clan. If you ask me that’s proof enough you’re a warrior, no magic rock will change that.”

“I…” Sandpaw choked a little before clearing her throat. “Thank you. And, I’m sorry for how I’ve been treating you.” Sandpaw backed away and gave a small, tired smile. You returned it.

“It’s okay. And now I’m glad I came back. You shouldn’t have to deal with that alone.” You sat up as an idea came into your head. “Hey! how about I talk to Redtail for you?”

Sandpaw’s fur bristled at that and she looked mortified. “No! I’d just look like a mewling kit especially with everything going on right now!”

“What if I wait until after everything calms down? Besides, he was given Ravenpaw as an apprentice for a reason! I’m sure Redtail would understand.”

Sandpaw still had a sour look on her face.

“Please,” your voice was soft, as you gave your best...puppydog...kittycat...kittypet?? eyes. Sandpaw gave a glare and a sigh before nodding her head.

“Fine! But if things go wrong I’m blaming it all on you. Got it?”

“Yup!” You excitedly replied, purring and rubbing up against Sandpaw. Making her chuckle.

“Well, if you’re going to be helping me how about I help you?” You pricked your ears, looking at her. “With the Thunderpath. Even if we can’t cross it, can try helping you get used to being near it?”

You thought it over before nodding. “I’d like that.”

Sandpaw seemed please and gave a stretch and a yawn. “We should head back in, I’ll show you where I snuck out!”

The two of you snuck back into camp, which you were more than happy to do. You didn’t want to risk any disappointed stares from telling your Clanmates you were too scared to cross the Thunderpath. Dustpaw was sound asleep when you and Sandpaw entered the den, and you made your way to the back, curling up in your nest.

You fell asleep in an instant, body too tired to register or care about the lack of Ravenpaw.

Chapter Text

You woke to a painful, nearly bruising, jab to your ribs, and a harsh hiss.

‘Wake up! Protect Redtail.’

The voice was unfamiliar, and you jolted awake, seeing Dustpaw look at you with confusion before darting out the apprentice’s den. Sandpaw was already ahead of him, you only catching a glimpse of her tail.

Through the tired haze you began to register things. Yowls. Blood heavy in the air. ShadowClan scent!

You jumped up and ran after your denmates.

The outside was a mess, cats locked into battle all around. Your brain was unfocused, but you rushed to the side of the closest cat, Brindleface. Fiercely fighting a tom despite being close to kitting. You rammed into the cat, sending him toppling as you and Brindleface proceeded to rip and claw at him until he retreated. Brindleface didn’t hesitate to run off to fight another ShadowClan cat, and you went your own direction.

You saw as Darkstripe was locked in battle with a black ShadowClan warrior, Frostfur fighting a large gray tom and Goldenflower jumping in. Smallear, Patchpelt, and One-eye were defending each other from a tortoiseshell who was much quicker than the three elders.

But then you remembered that voice. Protect Redtail!

Your forced yourself to focus, now having a specific target, and saw Redtail chasing off a ShadowClan cat before another attacked him from behind and bit down onto his neck. It was a larger cat with a scar-covered pelt and face. You were moving before you had time to register it. And you were left with fear, as by the time you realized what you were doing, the die, after being gone so long, made itself known.

5.

The scar covered tom was able to register what you couldn’t, as you pounced he was quick to roll, now under Redtail, with powerful legs he pushed the deputy away harshly, legs free and ready to grab you.

There was no way you could dodge. Your pelt bristled and you clashed with the tom as Redtail let out a shocked call of your name. He dug his claws into you, making your muscles burn more than they already were, and you were stuck in his much stronger grip, his maw opened wide, heading straight for your throat with such quick, killer precision you were reminded of the Dark Forest. But despite his speed he was stopped, claws digging into his face, harsh, pulling his deadly fangs away from you, and surely adding to the scars he already had. He kicked you off harshly with a yowl, and you were left winded, lungs hurting as you forced yourself up. Only to stare in shock.

It was Spottedleaf.

The medicine cat backed away as soon as the ShadowClan warrior had tossed you, placing herself in front of you as she hissed at him. Redtail had also regained his breath, and he and the ShadowClan warrior looked just as surprised to see who saved you. Just then you heard a yowl, and turned to see as Tigerclaw and Firepaw burst into the clearing, immediately setting off to fight. They were followed by Ravenpaw and Graypaw, and then, a limping Bluestar. Your heart clenched, seeing they all had wounds, you wondered what caused them.

The tom let out a hiss before running off into the undergrowth. And Spottedleaf looked off to the side, eyes widened, gasping before she ran off in that direction. You looked to Redtail, who gave you a nod before rejoining the fray. And you yourself went back to fighting as well.

With the addition of Tigerclaw, your friends, and Bluestar—who despite her injury was quick to best the warrior she was fighting, the ShadowClan cats were beaten. Whitestorm and Darkstripe chasing the last two intruders out of camp.

Finally able to take a break you sat down with a heavy breath. Mind a fuzzy haze. The smell of blood was strong in the air, splattered around camp along with tufts of fur. Some of which still drifted in the air, kicked up by movement and wind. The walls of the camp were destroyed, large gaping holes left in the defenses. Cats started to gather beneath the Highrock, and you joined them on shaky legs.

You saw your friends, Graypaw and Firepaw sitting next to each other, Ravenpaw laying down and licking a wound on his tail. As you made your way over, Ravenpaw got up and met you half way, rubbing against you with a purr.

“We were so worried! I’m glad you made it back to camp.”

You purred back, taking comfort in his closeness. “What happened, how did you all get hurt?”

“Rats.” Ravenpaw simply replied as he sat next to you. You grimaced.

“Ugh, I didn’t come across any. Where did they come from?”

“In the cornfields, we were passing by a ditch.”

Sounds of joy and mewing hit your ears, and it only then registered that the kits could have been harmed.

Frostfur appeared from the nursery, followed by Yellowfang. They stopped beneath the Highrock, Frostfur addressing the Clan.

“Our kits are all safe, thanks to Yellowfang. A ShadowClan warrior killed brave Rosetail and was trying to steal them from their nest, but Yellowfang fought him off.”

“It was no ordinary ShadowClan warrior either,” Firepaw put in, “I saw him, it was Blackfoot.”

“The ShadowClan deputy!” Brindleface hissed.

There was a stir as Bluestar finally made her way through, going over to you and your three friends with a grave expression that made your stomach drop.

“Spottedleaf is with Lionheart,” she spoke softly, but loud enough for the Clan to hear. “He was injured in battle, it looks grave.” She turned her head towards a shadow on the far side of Highrock where Lionheart lay, motionless. Spottedleaf was next to him.

Graypaw let out a high-pitched wail as he ran over to his mentor, and you noticed a quick look of shock pass on Firepaw’s face at Graypaw’s cry. Frostfur was next to rush over, panic clear on her face. Goldenflower, Lionheart’s sister, was already laying beside him, and Frostfur went next to her. Spottedleaf stepped back to give the grieving cats room, and when Spottedleaf moved you noticed the blood, and the tear in Lionheart’s throat.

You trembled as you touched your own throat, thinking of the tom’s teeth. How close you were to dying. Despite your battle with the fox, with Houndleap, the roads, journeying through WindClan territory alone, you had never felt so close to death.

‘But you did’ Your subconscious spoke up. And you remember the burning sensations along your pelt the first time you saw the road.

It was Graypaw’s cry of “He’s gone!” That brought you back to the present. And you watched as cats silently moved forward to join Graypaw in mourning. You were stuck in place as Ravenpaw and Firepaw joined him.

Did you have a right to join them?

Your paw was still on your throat as you recalled how Spottedleaf had ran off. Now that you think about it, she had been running to Lionheart. What if you weren’t there? Would she have been able to save Lionheart? You felt a burning guilt, were you responsible for his death?

“It’s not your fault.” You were snapped out of your thoughts again. This time by Redtail. Only now noticing you still had your paw over your throat. Redtail was staring directly at it. “The only ones to blame are the cowards that attacked our camp. Do you understand?” You blinked at Redtail before nodding your head. Remembering the voice that woke you up, and how the scarred tom had taken Redtail by surprise. You have to focus on what you were able to do. Redtail then nudged you forward, “Now go, your friend needs you.”

You stood up, wincing at the pain of tiredness and wounded muscles blending together. But you still felt numb, like your head was full of clouds and everything was distant. Firepaw was looking around and when he saw you approaching moved to the side, allowing you to place yourself next to Graypaw. You mumbled an apology in the gray tom’s fur. He only pressed his face harder into Lionheart’s pelt.

You stayed for a bit, but it still felt wrong to be there, and you lifted your head, noticing Spottedleaf tending to the wounds of the other cats. You got up, walking over to her. “Can I help?” Spottedleaf looked at you, looked at your the wounds on both your shoulders, still lightly bleeding.

“You are the one that needs help, (Y/n).” You couldn’t bring yourself to argue as Spottedleaf cleaned and wrapped your wounds. And sat alone, watching as she went to Bluestar, only to be sent away. Tigerclaw shared tongues with Lionheart, and when he walked away was approached by Redtail. You couldn’t hear their conversation, but afterwards Tigerclaw came to sit next to you. He didn’t say anything, but his presence alone brought you comfort. And it wasn’t until Spottedleaf treated the others that Bluestar finally let her wounds be looked at.

Graypaw, Ravenpaw, and Firepaw were still with Lionheart, and you decided to join them again, this time a little behind your three friends. You still felt out of place, you weren’t here as long as the others, even Firepaw had been here longer than you. Other cats came to sit vigil as the moon passed overhead. Bluestar made her way over last, sitting a bit away from Lionheart’s body. There was a hollow sadness in her eyes.

At dawn, a group of elders came to take Lionheart’s body to be buried along with Rosetail’s. Graypaw, Goldenflower, and Frostfur following to help dig the holes. You gave Graypaw a nuzzle before he left.

Your body ached more than ever, and you looked at Firepaw as he yawned and stretched.

“I’m glad you’re okay.”

You could only nod, too tired to speak. Were you really okay? Then you thought to Lionheart and Graypaw, Goldenflower and Frostfur, and felt even worse. How could you not be? It wasn’t like you or Spottedleaf or Tigerclaw died. You began to walk to the apprentice den, Ravenpaw and Firepaw giving each other concerned looks before following after you.

Inside you curled up in your nest, Ravenpaw joining and curling himself around you. And for once it felt like Ravenpaw was trying to give you the comfort that you usually gave him.

“Wake up!”

You startled, jumping up and panting before you were even aware of what you were doing. Your pelt bristled, the words reminding you of the voice that woke you up yesterday. Ravenpaw was already awake, upright with ears pricked, staring at you with wide, alarmed eyes. Firepaw seemed to have just been waking up himself, and Graypaw was stirring, both quickly getting up due to your panic.

Dustpaw blinked at you in confusion, “Bluestar’s called another meeting,” he hissed before disappearing.

Ravenpaw let out an inquisitive mew, rubbing up against you and purring to try and settle you. You ducked your head, licking the ruffled fur on your chest as your friends stared at you concerned.

“I’m fine,” you finally spoke, feeling silly. Graypaw was the one everyone should be worried about.

The four of you crawled out of the den, it was already past Sunhigh, and there was a chill in the air. Leaf-bare was getting ever closer. Firepaw shivered as his belly growled. And it was a reminder of your own hunger. With everything that happened none of you had the time to eat. The four of you joined the cats gathered below Highrock. Ravenpaw right up next to you the entire time. You appreciated the comfort.

Atop the rock, Redtail was speaking, Bluestar next to him. “During the journey to the Moonstone, Bluestar lost another life. Now that she has only four left, she will be appointed bodyguards to stay at her side constantly. We discussed this with Tigerclaw and Whitestorm, and have decided that Darkstripe and Longtail will be her guards.” Redtail turned to look at the two as he said their names, and they both sat taller.

Bluestar now spoke, her voice calm. “Remember, no cat should hesitate to approach me, I am happy to speak to anyone with or without my bodyguards. As the warrior code says, the safety of the Clan is more important than the security of any single member.”

Tigerclaw stood up from his place in the crowd, tail held high. “ShadowClan attacked while we were away from camp,” he said with a growl. “They chose their moment well. How did they know the camp would be so poorly defended?”

The unspoken words were clear in the air. The threats of a potential spy. Too dangerous a situation for Bluestar to be approached without her guards. And you thought of the kits you came across.

If the attack was your fault, you’d own up to it. You straightened up and stepped forward, catching the attention of all your Clanmates.

“I think I know what happened.” Your pelt burned as murmurs rippled through the crowd and you stared at your paws. Could feel how intensely Tigerclaw was staring at you.

“Well?” Bluestar prompted you to speak.

“When I was sent back, there were ShadowClan apprentic—no...kits,” You refused to call the tiny things you saw apprentices. They were too young. “They were patrolling and planned to tell Brokenstar of our scent.” You were now looking up at Bluestar. She stared at you evenly with an unreadable expression. “Before they could run off I confronted them, and was able to convince them to wait until after I had left. To trick Brokenstar, so he wouldn’t find out the two let me go instead of fighting me.”

You stomach was twisting with anxiety. But Bluestar gave a gentle look, and you felt yourself relaxing.

“If it weren’t for you, Barley would not have warned us about the dogs, and ThunderClan would have been attacked long before we returned. Good thinking, (Y/n).” You couldn’t help the ways your eyes lit up at the praise as you stood taller. You turned to look at Tigerclaw who looked proud.

With that resolved, you went back to your spot in-between Firepaw and Ravenpaw, and Bluestar looked over to Firepaw as she spoke her next words.

“And now, I wish to invite Yellowfang to join ThunderClan.”

Surprise rose from some of the warriors, and you felt Firepaw’s pelt bristle with excitement. Bluestar looked at Frostfur, and the queen nodded her agreement.

“Her actions last night proved that she is brave and loyal. If she wishes it, we will welcome her as a full member of this Clan.”

Yellowfang, seated at the edge of the crowd, looked up at Bluestar and replied, “I am honored, Bluestar, and I accept your offer.”

“Good,” Bluestar spoke in a firm voice. There would be no arguments. Firepaw was purring and nudged you in his excitement, and you gave him a smile.

“Last night,” Bluestar began to speak again, “we successfully defended ourselves against ShadowClan, but they are still a great threat. The repair work we began this morning will continue. Our boundaries will be patrolled constantly. We must not assume that the war is over.”

“We still have a while before sunset,” Redtail was speaking again. “We must concentrate on rebuilding our camp.”

With a flick of her tail Bluestar dismissed the Clan, and her and Redtail began to talk.

The cats separated and began to move around the camp, assessing damage and forming work groups.

Firepaw called to Ravenpaw, but the apprentice was already on his way to Halftail and Whitestorm.

“Let’s go and help him,” Graypaw suggested to you and Firepaw. His voice was flat and exhausted, and his eyes were dull.

“You two go, I’ll be there in a moment,” Firepaw responded. “First I want to check on Yellowfang, see if she’s okay after her fight with Blackfoot.”

As he walked off you went next to Graypaw, and the two of you made your way over to Halftail and Whitestorm.

“How can we help?” You spoke up for the both of you.

Whitestorm looked at the small amount of twigs at his paws. “The two of you can continue to patch this hole, I sent Ravenpaw to fetch more twigs. When he returns he can help.”

With that Whitestorm and Halftail left to work on other areas, leaving you and Graypaw to work. It was quiet, the silence near uncomfortable as the two of you started to patch the wall and you wracked your brain for conversation ideas.

“How was the Moonstone?” You hoped it wouldn’t hurt to mention.

“It… was nice. Firepaw was allowed to go see the Moonstone with Bluestar. He said it really does glow,” his eyes had a brief light to them as he began to speak. “And, thank you, for telling Barley to let us know about the dogs.”

You nodded your head, “I just wanted to make sure you all got back safe.”

“If it weren’t for the rats we would have got back sooner,” there was a bitterness in his voice as he glared at the hole, “Tigerclaw saved Bluestar but she still lost a life. And Barley saved Ravenpaw but then got attacked by Tigerclaw.”

“What?” You gasped at the new info.

“Tigerclaw thought it was a trap, and said that if you weren’t at camp when we got back he’d hunt Barley down.”

You shook your head at that. Tigerclaw was always eager to fight. The Dark Forest came to mind, but you pushed it away.

“Bluestar stopped him though.”

“I’m glad she did! He was just trying to help, warning about the dogs should’ve been proof enough.” Graypaw nodded in agreement.

“Are you...talking about Barley?” A new voice spoke up, muffled. You and Graypaw turned to see Ravenpaw, eyes twinkling as he dropped twigs in-between you and Graypaw.

“Yup, Graypaw was just telling me how Barley saved you before Tigerclaw attacked him.” You had the strong urge to apologize but held it in. You weren’t responsible for his actions.

Ravenpaw let out an uncharacteristic huff of irritation, “He was being a bully for no reason! Barley was really nice to us.”

There was a fondness in Ravenpaw’s voice that made you smile. Barley really did seem like a good cat.

Ravenpaw began to help the two of you patch the wall, looking more somber as he worked. “Besides,” his voice was low as he began to speak, cautious and uncertain, “it just seems nice. To live life without fear of being attacked by enemy Clans… to just hunt and be free…”

You and Graypaw stopped, looking at each other in surprise before turning your attentions to Ravenpaw.

“You...you’re not thinking of leaving, are you?” Graypaw’s voice was full of fear.

“No! At least...I don’t think so… I just… We shouldn’t have to fight…” Ravenpaw mumbled, staring at the patch in the wall. “We shouldn’t have to fear other cats.”

There was a heavy silence, you and Graypaw at a loss for what to say.

By the time Firepaw joined the three of you had patched up a nice amount of the hole.

“How’s Yellowfang?” Graypaw asked as Firepaw trotted up.

“She’s fine. She said wild garlic would be good for my rat bites. I was on my way to find some, but Dirtstripe ordered me to stay in camp.” You couldn’t help but snicker at the jab.

“Wild Garlic?” Graypaw mewed. “I wouldn’t mind trying that, my leg still stings.”

“I could sneak out and get some,” Firepaw offered. “No one would notice if I slipped out of this hole. It’d only be a couple of rabbit hops.” You looked at the hole, a nice amount patched up, Firepaw might have a bit of trouble squeezing through.

“Or,” you began to speak up as an idea formed in your head. “We can just go over Darkstripe’s head.” The three looked at you questioningly. “I can ask Spottedleaf and gather some wild garlic with her. Darkstripe would have no choice but to let Spottedleaf through!”

Firepaw thought the idea over before nodding his head. “I’d like to see the look on his face.”

With that, you ran off to Spottedleaf’s Den. Happy to have an excuse to get away from rebuilding the wall. You quickly made your way through the fern tunnel and into the opening, seeing Spottedleaf sorting herbs with her back turned. When she saw you enter she immediately made her way over to you.

“Is everything alright, (Y/n)? Is your wound bothering you?” You shook your head.

“No, but Graypaw and Firepaw’s rat bites are bothering them. Yellowfang suggested Wild garlic but Darkstripe wouldn’t let him past.”

Spottedleaf let out an amused huff, “So you want to use me to get past him, huh?”

“Yup!”

Spottedleaf chuckled. “Very well, let’s get going then. I was planning on restocking the herb anyways.”

You followed Spottedleaf out of her den, and once the two of you reached the tunnel Darkstripe appeared. “No one is to leave the camp tonight.” He eyed you with a hard glare before looking in the direction that Firepaw was, knowing you had originally been over there.

“I need to restock on herbs, to make sure we’re prepared for another attack.”

“It’s not safe.”

“I’m sure I’ll be safe enough with (Y/n), or do you doubt Tigerclaw’s training?” Darkstripe immediately faltered at that. It made you feel a bit bad. But only a bit. Your friends needed the herbs after all, and he was just throwing his weight around.

“Fine.” Darkstripe backed away, letting the two of you pass. Before you disappeared through the tunnel you looked back to see an amused Firepaw, Darkstripe glaring in the direction of your three friends.

Chapter Text

Once through the tunnel you and Spotedleaf shared a look and giggled.

“I guess you’ll be helping me sooner than expected!”

You purred at that, and followed Spottedleaf as she started to walk. Instead of going straight up the ravine the two of you circled the camp’s boundary and went up a much calmer hill.

The wild garlic really wasn’t far, just a few tail lengths away from the ravine. Spottedleaf snipped some of the strands down to the base, bundling them and using a spare strand to wrap the bundle together. She then snipped a smaller amount and dropped them near you, “Give these to your friends, then we can continue collecting herbs.”

You nodded, bending to grab the garlic. But up so close, the smell invaded your senses and memories came back. Cold winter days. Inside a house, the same one you saw in your dreams, but this time the Marigolds were gone from the weather. Despite the winter weather you were warm inside the old, run-down house. Body warmed by soup stuffed full of nutritious foods.

“(Y/n)?”

Spottedleaf’s soft call of your name snapped you out of your daze, your eyes clearing. You grabbed the wild garlic, letting out a muffled sorry as you quickly turned and went down the slope, bounding over to the almost patched hole. The first thing you saw was Firepaw’s excited, green eyes, and he backed away, allowing you to push your head through.

Graypaw snorted at your appearance, and you could only imagine how silly you looked. A golden lion cub with a mane of leaves coming to mind.

“Thanks (Y/n)!” Firepaw purred before carefully grabbing the wild garlic from your mouth. Out of the corner of your eye you noticed Darkstripe snap his head towards you, glaring daggers. Tigerclaw and Longtail were with him, and upon seeing you Tigerclaw started to make his way over.

“What are you doing?” Your mentor asked roughly as Firepaw divided the wild garlic between he and Graypaw, both rubbing the herb on their rat bites.

“I’m helping Spottedleaf gather herbs!”

“You’re not her apprentice,” he spat in irritation, “don’t forget you’re training to be a warrior.” You could see a slight panic in his eyes and you just huffed at him, narrowing your eyes. Your huff caused the tom to narrow his eyes in return, irritation replacing the panic.

“Spottedleaf needed help and thought since I’m your apprentice I’d be more than enough. But if you think you’re training’s not good enough you can have Sandpaw swap places with me.” Your snarky response left your three friends slack-jawed and Tigerclaw wide-eyed. And you tried to keep a straight face, but started to giggle at all their responses. Tigerclaw roughly shook himself before your view was blocked, as a heavy paw shoved your face out of the hole, making you fall backwards.

On your back, you openly laughed now, Tigerclaw poking his head through, ruining some of the work your friends did as he looked down at you. “You should choose your words lightly,” it was supposed to be a reprimand, but came out less threatening than intended, your happiness infecting him. You got up, shaking yourself off before looking at Tigerclaw.

“Not ordering me to come back? So you do think I’m capable!” You said with a smug look.

Tigerclaw rolled his eyes, “Of course I think you’re capable. I wanted to make sure that time in her den didn’t make you herb crazy.”

“I already know to not try and turn your apprentice into a medicine cat, Tigerclaw,” a voice came from above. You and Tigerclaw turned to look up at Spottedleaf, the she-cat having a gentle smile on her face. “But the faster we collect these herbs, the faster we can focus on the defenses and repairs.” Spottedleaf paused a moment, taking a look at some of the barrier that broke away thanks to Tigerclaw. “That you seem to be ruining, Tigerclaw.” She finished with a playful purr.

“Oh! Sorry for taking so long!” You called out as you ran up to join the she-cat, walking past her. She gave a nod of her head, turning to look back towards Tigerclaw with a soft look before turning to join you.

Tigerclaw felt his pelt heating up and he tried pulling his head out, only to realize it was stuck. With a twist of his head and hard pull he freed his head, destroying more of the barrier.

He looked down at the mess, “Ugh, clean that up,” he spat at the apprentices, walking off as thoughts clouded his mind. Was he getting too soft?

.

..

.

You and Spottedleaf began collecting herbs, well, more like she collected. You stood guard and helped carry them. Sometimes the two of you would circle back to a tree to bury the herbs, before setting out for more.

“Why collect so much?”

“ShadowClan was brave enough to attack our camp. It’s a miracle they didn’t go out of their way to destroy our herbs.” Spottedleaf replied.

“I guess it shouldn’t be so shocking...they’re willing to steal kits after all. But isn’t that a step too far? The lack of herbs would lead to death.” The thought horrified you.

Spottedleaf’s eyes darkened, “This wouldn’t have crossed my mind if ThunderClan itself wasn’t guilty of such things.”

You stopped in your tracks, looking at her with wide eyes. “You- you’re kidding right?”

She looked back at you with a sigh, shaking her head. “I wish I was. It was a time before even I was born. When Bluestar was still an apprentice…” You had a conflicted look on your face at the news. “Don’t worry, from what I know the attack was a fail, and ThunderClan was punished harshly. Not just by the Clans but StarClan as well.”

“What would even give anyone such an idea?” You asked as the two of you started to walk again.

“Prophecies. But to this day I still don’t know if they were misinterpreted.”

“They had to be!” You exclaimed as Spottedleaf stopped to grab some herbs.

“That or it was an attempt to stop things set in motion by fate itself.” Spottedleaf sighed, “I still don’t know what that old cat was seeing, I just know his attempts to stop them, led to bad outcomes.”

Spottedleaf noticed your soured mood and shook her head. “But that was the past. ThunderClan is strong and honorable now,” she spoke as she nudged you, “We’re almost done, the last thing we need are Marigolds.”

You couldn’t help but perk up at that, “I know where some is!” You excitedly announced.

“Lead the way, (Y/n).” Spottedlead said with a smile.

In your excitement it slipped your mind that Spottedleaf, the medicine cat, would know where the flowers were located. But she happily followed as you led the way. The two of you passed the small stream, and getting closer to the boundary, were on alert. But ShadowClan scent remained faint, and soon you spotted the Marigolds and ran over to them.

“Here they are!” You proudly announced before burying your head into the bed of flowers, taking a deep sniff. Spottedleaf smiled at you, carefully snipping a few of the flowers before sitting down and letting her tail curl around her paws, the flowers she collected next to her.

You were almost lightheaded, the scent bringing back memories of…

August.

That was the word. The scent reminded you of August. You clung to it, repeating the word in your head. You hoped to one day remember what it was, and why it meant so much to you.

When you finally had your fill of the scent you stepped back, only then remembering Spottedleaf, “Uh...sorry.”

“It’s fine,” Spottedleaf said with a chuckle. She looked down at the Marigolds before looking at you, “We don’t share this with others, but us medicine cats have always discussed what we think each flower represents.”

You tilted your head as you sat next to Spottedleaf. The concept scratched something in your brain. You felt it was something you once knew. “Do you have on for Marigolds?”

Spottedleaf nodded, looking down at the flowers. “They have a strong, often overwhelming smell. Sweet and bitter at the same time. They’re hardy and grow almost year round and so, we feel they best represent life, death, and prosperity. As long as the Marigolds grow we know good times are ahead.”

Yeah, you definitely heard that before. You wish you could remember when.

“But lately? They remind me of you. So vibrant and full of life, doing everything to persevere despite hardships. I’m proud of you, (Y/n).”

The words left you in shock, your throat closing up as you felt tears burn your eyes, and you looked at Spottedleaf.

“I...thank you, Spottedleaf,” you said softly, she gave you a smile before softly nudging you as she stood. “We shouldn’t stay so close to the border.” You nodded, clearing your throat as she picked up the marigolds, and the two of you began the trek back to the tree where the other herbs were stored.

Once there the two of you began wrapping the bundles of herbs in leaf wrappings, yours clumsy compared to Spottedleaf’s quick and efficient movement. But they got the job done. Afterwards the two of you began using cobwebs to stick the wrappings to Spottedleaf, and seeing the she-cat covered in so much green amused you.

“Are you sure you don’t want me to help?” You asked. In your mind a die rolled a 3, confusing you.

“I already took up enough of your time. And I don’t want to hear Tigerclaw’s complaining if he sees you wrapped in herbs.” Spottedleaf responded.

You were about to respond but thinking of the die the words died. With how low it was...more time would be wasted trying to convince her. Instead you just gave a nod of your head.

As Spottedleaf led the way back to camp another die rolled. 0. Just confirming your thoughts that it would have been a waste of time.

At the top of the slope you noticed Redtail, a bit in the distance and stopped, thinking of Sandpaw. “I just remembered I need to talk to Redtail.”

Spottedleaf tilted her head inquisitively but didn’t ask any questions, “If Tigerclaw asks I’ll be sure to let him know where you are,” Spottedleaf said. You purred, giving her a nuzzle and thanks before running off in the direction Redtail went.

Following his scent, it wasn’t hard to find him. And you were happy to see he was alone.

“Redtail!” You called out to the tom. He straightened, turning to look at you.

“I was wondering who was following me,” he calmly meowed. “Is there something you need?”

“I wanted to talk to you.”

“Can it wait?”

“No, it’s really important!”

Redtail gave a heavy sigh but nodded his head. “Alright, but walk with me. We can just patrol.”

As the two of you walked you were nervous. You didn’t really have a plan on what to say, it was a spur of the moment thing. Should you tell him you changed your mind and just leave?

“Is it anything to do with Tigerclaw? I was his apprentice too, I know how he can get. And Spottedleaf told me of her concerns. Don’t be afraid to approach either of us.”

You sighed at that. Of course Spottedleaf would tell her deputy brother!

“It has nothing to do with Tigerclaw, it’s just,” you looked down at your paws, trying to think of how to word things.

You were so lost in thought you didn’t realize you passed Redtail, the tom following slowly behind you and wondering when you were going to speak.

“Did I teach you to be so weak-willed? If you have something to say spit it out!” A deep voice spat. You let out a yelp of alarm, spinning around with wide eyes. You looked around, expecting to see Tigerclaw, but only saw a rather proud looking Redtail.

“Impressive isn’t it? I’ve gotten Darkstripe a few times with that.” He preened while you just stared at him in shock.

“You!” You glared at the tom, but it quickly fell away to giggles as the panic left you. “Okay, I gotta admit that was good.”

“I know! Now, what did you want to speak about?”

The sudden rush of emotions left your mind more relaxed, and you finally felt ready.

“When I was sent back that night, I came across Sandpaw near the Owl Tree. She was crying.”

Redtail’s eyes widened in alarm as he approached you. “Why?”

You closed your eyes, recalling what she said. “She was frustrated, felt like she was being left behind. Uh...first it was everything with Tigerclaw. Because Whitestorm had been worried about me too. And with you being deputy and having an apprentice you never really had time for her. Then Bluestar taking Firepaw as an apprentice… She didn’t want to worry anyone so she was holding it all in. She didn’t want anyone to see her as weak. I think Firepaw, Graypaw, Ravenpaw and I being chosen to go to the Moonstone is finally what made it all hit her.” You finally finished, opening your eyes to look at Redtail whose face was twisted with worry.

Redtail let out a small sigh as he sat back. “No cat in ThunderClan would think she’s weak. Over leaf-bare we lost many cats, queens and kits were the most affected. Even my mate…” Redtail blinked slowly, “Toms aren’t usually that involved in their kits lives, but with so much loss, maybe I should have been there more…”

“Well, you can start now?”

Redtail looked at you with a smile, giving a nod of his head. “You’re right, better late than never. Thank you for telling me (Y/n), Sandpaw is lucky to have a friend like you.”

You purred at the compliment, happy the issue could be resolved. “I knew you’d understand!”

With that the two of you continued patrolling, keeping alert for any foreign scents. It was on the way back you asked another question.

“How did you become Tigerclaw’s apprentice? He’s not much older than you.”

Redtail nodded his head, “You’re right, he’s not. I had another cat as a mentor before him, Halftail, but after he lost his tail in a badger attack he had to retire to the elder’s den. Tigerclaw already had Darkstripe as an apprentice, but he had a lot of energy so Sunstar, our previous leader, gave him me as an apprentice as well. To take some of the load off of Darkstripe.”

Your first thought was of Halftail. “Was he like...set up by fate or something? Why was he named Halftail if he didn’t have a half tail?”

Redtail chuckled and shook his head. “His name was Sparrowpelt before that. It was changed after the injury.”

You stopped at how casually Redtail mentioned that, face scrunched up. “Why would anyone do that?”

Redtail just shrugged, “Sometimes it happens. I’m sure if he didn’t like the change it wouldn’t have happened.”

You sighed at that, shaking your head. “And what of Sunstar? I thought Pinestar was the previous leader.”

Redtail raised a brow at the question, “Did Tigerclaw tell you about him? He was the leader before Sunstar but stepped down. Sunstar wasn’t our leader for long.”

“I, uh, heard others talking about how good of a warrior was compared to Pinestar,” You quickly responded. Redtail just hummed in response as the both of you finally reached the camp boundary. Bounding down, the two of you entered the camp, and you saw Tigerclaw with Whitestorm. When he saw you he gave a nod of acknowledgment before going back to his conversation. Despite the long day you had you went back to working on repairs, wanting to help build up the defense as much as possible.

.

..

.

“Graypaw!” Firepaw hissed into the sleeping tom’s ear. You and your friends had been allowed to rest all morning after working on repairs for most of the night. But Tigerclaw had ordered you all to be ready for training at sunhigh, and it was almost time.

Firepaw hissed Graypaw’s name again, but he was still in a deep slumber. He had eaten two poppy seeds before going to sleep.

A deep voice growled outside the den. “Training is about to start!”

You, Firepaw, and Ravenpaw jumped.

“Graypaw wake up!” This time Firepaw poked Graypaw with a paw, “Tigerclaw is waiting!”

Graypaw finally lifted his head, still groggy, eyes heavy with sleep.

“Are you ready yet?” Tigerclaw called.

With Graypaw finally awake the three of you crawled out the den first. Tigerclaw was sitting beside the tree stump.

“Is Graypaw coming?” Tigerclaw asked.

“Yes,” Firepaw quickly replied, “He’s only just woken up.”

“Training will do him good,” Tigerclaw replied.

Firepaw stared directly at Tigerclaw, locking eyes with the warrior. You could once again sense a tenseness from Firepaw, one that Tigerclaw didn’t reciprocate as Graypaw scrambled sleepily out the den. Was he still upset about Tigerclaw testing him?

“Bluestar will be ready for you in a moment, Firepaw,” Tigerclaw announced, and the tenseness evaporated from Firepaw as he shivered with excitement, eyes bright.

“Graypaw, you can join Redtail and Ravenpaw’s training session.” With a flick of his tail he pointed out the direction Redtail was, the deputy having recently emerged from Bluestar’s den. The two began to make their way over to the tom and Tigerclaw finally turned his attention to you.

“We will be training with Whitestorm and Sandpaw.” With nothing left to say the tom stood up and began to walk off. You mouthed a good luck to Firepaw before following your mentor.

You expected the Sandy Hollow but was surprised when led away to a different clearing, seeing Sandpaw waiting with Whitestorm.

Seeing the two of you arrive Whitestorm started to speak, “Today the two of you will work on fighting together. You will be facing warriors with more experience, and with killing intent.”

Tigerclaw spoke next, “Whitestorm and I will be attacking the both of you, you must work to defend yourselves and each other,” the tabby tom finished.

“But there’s no guarantee we’ll be fighting together?” Sandpaw spoke up, you were confused yourself.

“It will still teach you to be more aware of your surroundings and your clanmates,” Whitestorm replied.

You and Sandpaw were uneasy at the idea of fighting both warriors, but this was a necessary thing to learn. The two of you went to the center of the clearing and turned your backs to each other, backing up so that your rears were almost touching.

With the two of you ready your mentors got into position as well. Whitestorm going to face you, and Tigerclaw facing Sandpaw, causing you both to falter.

You were given no warning, and with a lightning quick strike, faster than anything Tigerclaw ever did, Whitestorm swiped out and knocked your front legs out from under you, causing you to fall face first. The yelp you let out startled Sandpaw and she turned to face you, only to be knocked flat from Tigerclaw’s blow.

“Pay attention!” Tigerclaw hissed.

“You must use your other senses Sandpaw. Keep your eyes on your opponent.”

The two of you got up, and looking at Sandpaw you could see she was already frustrated, you were too. The two of you got back into position, you were nervous about Whitestorm’s speed but knew you had to adopt. He wasn’t the first quick cat you fought.

When Whitestorm moved to attack he was going for your paws again. You expected this and quickly reared onto your back legs, jumping over Whitestorm. You turned mid-air, expecting to attack the tom. But as you landed you realized your mistake.

The attack was a fake-out.

He went straight for Sandpaw who let out a surprised ‘mrow!’ as you gasped in shock. Only to be suddenly knocked over and pinned beneath a heavy weight.

You let out a heavy sigh as you looked up, already knowing you’d see Tigerclaw.

“Leaving your clanmate open to attack allows both opponents to easily switch targets. Next time, remember to protect your clanmate.”

You huffed as he let you up, eyes narrowing. You couldn’t help but think of yesterday, eyes widening as you thought of what you said to him. You snapped your head to Whitestorm.

“Hey, why did the two of you decide to have me and Sandpaw train together?” Sandpaw shot you a look of offense, “I’m just saying because you’ve trained more with Dustpaw!” You quickly supplied.

“Tigerclaw actually suggested it last night,” Whitestorm responded.

You just huffed and looked at your mentor.

He was sooo petty.

You went back over to Sandpaw, muttering a ‘sorry.’ The she-cat nodded her head in response as the two of you got back into position.

It was well past sunhigh by the time you and Sandpaw were moving more in sync, the practice starting to pay off. The two of you had taken to intertwining your tails, to force yourselves to keep each other’s back covered.

When the two warriors finally called off the training you were relieved, flopping over.

“The two of you did good! Go back to camp and get some rest,” Whitestorm replied. You were about to happily comply before Sandpaw decided to speak up.

“Actually, I wanted to go hunting with (Y/n), if they’re up for it,” your denmate shot you a look of playful challenge, and you immediately shot up, reinvigorated.

Tigerclaw raised a brow while Whitestorm’s eyes widene, “Oh, yes! Of course you can!” The white tom let out a pleased purr, “I’m glad you’ve decided to spend more time with your denmates.”

Sandpaw ducked her head and looked away, “It’s just hunting!” And then she was up and running off, calling out a ‘come on!’ You were quick to follow after her.

When the two of you were a good distance away she finally stopped, and you stopped next to her, staring eagerly. She gave you an annoyed look before starting to speak.

“Redtail spoke to me last night. He apologized and promised to spend more time with me. So...thank you, (Y/n).” You let out a purr and rubbed against Sandpaw harshly, causing her to laugh as you knocked her over.

“I told you he’d understand!”

“Yea, yea,” the she-cat rolled her eyes before standing up. “So now it’s time to keep my end of the deal.” You shifted nervously at that, losing your excitement as you gave her a nervous smile.

“Is there anything that helps keep you calm?”

You thought for a moment, but it didn’t take long for the answer to come up. “Flowers, Marigolds specifically. I’m not sure why but they immediately calmed me down when I smelled them.”

Sandpaw’s eyes lit up, “There’s some not too far from the Thunderpath, let’s go!” She was quick to start running off, causing you to grumble. But you couldn’t back out now, so you followed after her.

The two of you quickly made it to the Marigolds, and you immediately thought of yesterday, feeling relaxed already. Sandpaw sniffed at the flowers before wrinking her nose a bit. She used her teeth to snip one of the flowers, and you tilted your head at her. “What are you doing?”

She walked over to you with the flower in her mouth, before grabbing it in her paw and slapping it onto your nose, causing you to sneeze and the Marigold to fall off. The two of you stared at the Marigold on the ground before Sandpaw let out an exaggerated sigh and picked it up, placing it on your snout again, this time more gently.

The bridge of your nose tingled, reminded you of how it felt to wear glasses for the first time. But like with many things, you were left wondering what glasses were.

You were about to move, but Sandpaw’s hissed ‘stay still!’ kept you in place. She got up, wandering around some bushes before coming back with a wad of web on her paws. She studied the bridge of your nose, before deciding to lift the flower up, place the sticky web in it’s place, and then placing the flower back on top. The petals fell in a way that also covered your nostrils, allowing you to breathe in the scent.

“There!” She seemed satisfied with herself. And you really, really, wanted to scratch your nose.

You raised a paw.

She glared.

You lowered your paw.

Satisfied with your obedience she turned around, “Now let’s see if it helps,” and began to walk, head and tail high with a strong sense of determination. You followed behind rather glumly. But you didn’t realize how close you were to the road until the smell hit you, and you saw spots of gray beyond the bushes. It was quiet as no cars were going past. But now so close the smell clashed with the Marigold you had been so intently focused on. Your pelt bristled at the sour smell, and Sandpaw, sensing your panic, roughly pressed against you with a purr.

“Relax, it’s not that bad,” she purred. You closed your eyes, trying to focus on her purrs and the smell of the Marigold. As the ground started to rumble a gasp escaped you, but you remained in place. Sandpaw purred louder, curling her tail over your back. Visions danced behind your closed eyes, things you couldn’t make out but were at the tip of your tongue. It was all in chaos, the smell of Marigolds, bringing about pleasant memories of gardens and an old house, run down, overcrowded with flowers, but full of happy memories. Then a strong gust of wind came, rumblings from a car going by reminded you of blood, your blood, the taste of it metallic and heavy in your mouth. A ringing in your ears so loud it deafened the world around you, pain so intense it felt like you were burning, surrounded by flashing lights and movement you could barely track, it all melting together into a sensory overload.

Then the car left, the marigold would came back, and you’d once again notice Sandpaw’s purrs and body heat, the garden of Marigolds would reappear, and you could feel yourself relaxing.

You kept your eyes closed as these things looped, your shock getting quieter, and quieter, until you finally felt Sandpaw pull away from you. It was only when you opened your eyes that you realized you had been crying, and you reached a paw up to wipe at your eyes.

Despite being so close to the ro-

No.

Maybe it would be best to refer to it as the Thunderpath, the cars as monsters – different beasts than what your mind so intimately knew.

Despite being so close to the Thunderpath, the Marigolds and Sandpaw’s presence helped. A lot. You took in a deep breath, holding it for a few seconds before slowly releasing it. Sandpaw took to licking your face, purring as she removed any traces of tears. When another ca-monster, you quickly corrected yourself. When another monster passed Sandpaw purred louder, her purrs mixing with the rumbles.

You thought back to when you went to the Dark Forest, Tigerclaw’s words of everything being in your head, to fight it. You had to fight it. You weren’t going to be beat by vague memories, wasn’t going to allow yourself to constantly cower. You owed it to not just yourself, but your Clan. When you stood up Sandpaw gave you an inquisitive look, head tilted slightly.

“I… I want to get closer.” She looked alarmed but you looked forward towards the Thunderpath resolutely. Seeing your determination she nodded, pressing against you. The two of you walked forward. A monster went blaring past, loud. Your heart jumped to your throat. You froze. But you didn’t back away.

The two of you walked in sync, and soon you were in the bushes, the only thing separating you from the Thunderpath being the small stretch of slick mud and grass. Sandpaw poked her head out, looking both ways before giving you a nod. No monsters were coming. You took a deep breath, and reached a paw out. Touching the Thunderpath.

Your fur bristled as the texture brought back memories. The smell of blood and burning skin mixed with gasoline. But you pushed them away. Focus on the present.

Whatever your past was. It didn’t matter. You felt the rumbling, looked to see the monster coming, but it was on the opposite side, and so, you kept your paw in place. In a show of solidarity Sandpaw put a paw on the Thunderpath as well, right next to your paw. Body pressed against yours as she kept purring. You kept your eyes open as the monster passed. The fumes from it burning your eyes. They began to water but you stayed put. And it was only when the rumbling faded, the Thunderpath quiet, did you finally remove your paw. Sandpaw removed hers as well and the two of you backed away, back into the safety of the forest. Only then did everything fully register, and you stumbled as you let out a loud gasp. But Sandpaw was there for you, pressing into your side with more purrs, nuzzling you and keeping you upright.

You were tired, feeling as if you had just battled ten cats, your body heavy with exhaustion. But you were satisfied. Whatever happened, you knew you’d be able to confront the Thunderpath now.

.

..

…

..

.

Chapter Text

That night you and Ravenpaw went to bed before the other apprentices, but as the night went on the black tom’s twitching pulled you from slumber. Suddenly, Ravenpaw leaped to his paws. You jumped up too, startled to full awake, and looked at your friend. Ravenpaw’s eyes were wide with terror, fur standing on end and back arched.

“Ravenpaw!” Firepaw’s call alerted you, not realizing he was in the den too. “Calm down. You’re in our den, there’s only us here!”

Ravenpaw looked around wildly, blinking, finally taking in his surroundings, he went slack. “Sorry…” The tom mumbled tiredly. You and Firepaw approached, giving Ravenpaw nuzzles and purrs as he settled back down. You laid next to him, and Firepaw in his own nest, and soon the three of you were fast asleep.

When you awoke again it was dawn, to the sound of a cheerful “Hi!” You lifted your head, seeing Firepaw already awake, “You sound better,” the tom purred to Graypaw.

Graypaw licked Firepaw’s ear, “Spottedleaf put some gunk on my cut and made me lie still for hours. I must’ve fallen asleep.”

“How’d you get cut?” You asked with a yawn.

“Fishing, I stepped on a sharp stone in the–“

“Shut up,” Sandpaw growled, “Some of us are trying to sleep.”

Graypaw rolled his eyes. “Come on you two,” he mewed, “Brindleface had her kits. Let’s go visit them.”

Firepaw purred at the announcement, and you carefully pulled away from Ravenpaw, bundling up some of the bedding around him to help bring comfort. You were excited to see the kits. What would Brindleface name them? You exited the den after Graypaw and Firepaw, happy the gray tom seemed to be in much better spirits. As the three of you made your way across the clearing, Firepaw paused to stretch, soaking in the warmth of rising sun.

“Stop showing off!” Graypaw called to the tom. Firepaw finished stretching and rushed to catch up to the two of you.

Whitestorm was sitting outside the nursery, some of the queens and kits outside as well. “Have you three come to see the new kits?” He asked as your small group approached.

Firepaw nodded.

“Only one at a time, and you’ll have to wait, Bluestar’s with her now.”

“You two can go first,” Firepaw offered. “I’ll go and see Yellowfang while I’m waiting.” He dipped his head to Whitestorm before heading off to Yellowfang’s nest.

Soon, Bluestar came out the nursery, and Whitestorm gave a nod of his head as Graypaw stepped back, allowing you to go first. You squeezed into the entrance, it was quite a tight fit, but a strong defense was needed in times like these. Brindleface purred a greeting as you padded over to her.

“Thank you for helping me fight that tom,” the she-cat purred as she looked down at her kits. There were four of them, three pale gray with darker flecks like their mother, and one a dark gray. Their eyes were shut tight, and they mewled and squirmed.

“Anytime,” you purred in response, crouching down to get a closer look at the kits. “They’re so cute and tiny!” You’d surely be a warrior by the time they were apprentices. Would you be able to mentor one of them? Your tail quivered in excitement as you straightened up, wishing Brindleface luck as you made your way out the den. Whitestorm was talking to Bluestar, but paused to give Graypaw permission to enter the nursery. As Graypaw entered Firepaw came over, Bluestar’s attention changing to him.

“Firepaw, have you come to see ThunderClan’s newest warriors?” You noticed the tiredness in Bluestar’s voice, a hint of sadness there as well.

“Yes I have,” Firepaw replied.

“Well when you’ve finished, come and see me in my den.”

“Yes, Bluestar,” Firepaw mewed as Bluestar slowly walked away, and Firepaw went to sit next to you. You noticed Frostfur laying down a bit to the side of the nursery, her kits playing next to her as she started to drift off.

“Why are the queens outside the nursery?” You asked Whitestorm.

“To give Brindleface some space as she gave birth, and so the new kits have time to settle.” You nodded your head at the response. It made sense, the strongest warriors were in camp and the older kits probably had a lot of energy after being cooped up so much.

“How’s Yellowfang?” You asked another question, this time to Firepaw.

“She was cleaning behind her ears, think we’re going to get rain?” The tom asked, his whiskers twitching with amusement.

“Ugh, we’ll probably get stuck with a downpour! The older the cat the heavier the rain.” Firepaw chuckled at your response, and Graypaw finally crawled out the nursery.

“They’re really cute,” he mewed, “But I’m starving. I’m off to find some fresh-kill. We’ll save some for you if we find any!”

“We?” You asked, wondering who Graypaw was going to hunt with.

“Yes, we,” the gray tom responded with a smile as he started nudging you away from the nursery. You snorted at his insistent shoving, pushing back against him to knock him off balance before bounding off towards the entrance, Graypaw running after you.

“Where should we hunt?” Graypaw asked after the two of you got out the gorse tunnel.

“Hm...how about sunningrocks?” You suggested. “With all the patrols on the other side, prey will probably be hiding.” 

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..

.

On the way you noticed a finch, excitedly signaling for Graypaw to stop moving as you crouched. The gray tom stayed back, quietly lowering himself as you slowly stalked forward, inching closer. The lack of a die didn't concern you, you were an experienced hunter by now. But there was a sharp crack! the sound of a twig snapping in the underbrush startling the bird. It began to fly up, but you weren’t willing to give up just like that, so you ran and jumped, strong back legs sending you high into the air. You could feel the tail feathers between your teeth, but they slipped through. You landed with a heavy thump and growled at the failed catch.

“Wow! That was a high jump,” Graypaw marveled as he came over to you. He gave a quick lick to your ear, and the compliment made you feel a bit better.

Once at Sunningrocks you and Graypaw spent time shoving your paws into tiny nooks to grab the mice and shrews hiding among the rocks, piling a few of the rodents on top the Sunningrocks. Once you felt enough were caught, the two of you rested on the rocks. They were relaxing to lay on even when the clouds were blocking out the sun.

“Firepaw said Yellowfang was cleaning behind her ears.”

“Ugh, wouldn’t need an elder to see a storm’s coming.” Graypaw grumbled. You laughed a little as you laid next to your friend, it was a comfortable silence, until you spoke up.

“Do you think Ravenpaw will try to leave?” You asked, worried. Graypaw looked up at the sky as he thought over your question.

“I don’t think so. We’re his friends! And Dustpaw is his brother, they’re all they have left.”

You wanted to agree. For as long as you knew him Ravenpaw was anxious, but apparently he hadn’t always been so. Sandpaw said it was like one day he woke up a different cat, confused and feeling as if something was wrong when nothing was. It had been to the point he thought Tigerclaw was his mentor! And didn’t remember Firepaw joining the Clan. It seemed his memories came back, slowly, but he was still left on edge after that. Then a few days later you were discovered at Sunningrocks. And to every cat it seemed as if Ravenpaw had come across an old friend with how quickly he relaxed around you. He was able to focus again, and you recall Ravenpaw once telling you, when you appeared, it suddenly felt like everything would be okay.

But now it seemed the stress was getting to him. More than usual. Sure, Dustpaw was his brother, but despite being the same age the brown tom was farther ahead with his training. Ravenpaw should have technically been ready to become a warrior with Dustpaw and Sandpaw, but the shift in behavior is when he started to fall behind. What if he saw it as proof he wasn’t meant to be a warrior?

You let out a soft sigh, keeping your concerns to yourself.

The breeze picked up, and your fur bristled as the wind carried a strong, bitter, scent.

ShadowClan.

You sat up with a growl.

“They’re probably fishing upstream,” Graypaw grumbled, also unsettled.

“We should get back to camp,” you said as you turned to pick up half the prey you and Graypaw caught. Graypaw got up, stretching before taking the other half, the two of you setting a quick pace.

The wind picked up by the time the two of you made it to the top of the ravine. Despite that the two of you could hear the screech that had suddenly pierced the air.

“My kits! Someone has taken my kits!”

Your blood ran cold. The voice was Frostfur’s!

“No!” Graystripe cried out, dropping the prey from his mouth as he bounded down the ravine, you dropped your half of the prey as well in your rush, pushing into camp right behind him. Tigerclaw was next to Frostfur, giving orders and telling cats where to look. Graypaw bounded over to the apprentice den, and you raced to the next closest, Spottedleaf’s.

You pushed your way inside, sniffing around. There was no smell of kits, but still you nosed your way through, slipping into the cracked rock to see if the kits were in the herb storage. You knew kitscent was far fainter than an older cats. But you saw nothing, and slipped out. You circled back to the camp entrance, searching the camp boundary for any signs.

Why? Surely no one had been able to sneak into camp! The kits had to have just slipped off. You couldn’t help but to think of how Frostfur was dozing. They just wanted to play a prank on their mother. That had to – Tigerclaw’s loud yowl cut off your train of thought, sending a chill down your spine. You immediately stopped what you were doing and ran towards the source, behind the nursery. Being near the entrance the rest of the Clan was much closer. You started pushing your way forward, hearing a grief filled wail that you couldn’t recognize. The sound sickened you. The kits couldn’t have been hurt, they were okay, everyone was –

Behind the nursery Spottedleaf lay motionless.

The unfamiliar wail had come from Redtail. The normally calm and composed tom shoving his face into his sister’s fur. She was unnaturally still, body completely limp. The noise around you became faded, muffled as if you were underwater.

Whitestorm and Tigerclaw were also near the she-cat, Tigerclaw turning to look at you with a panic in his eyes.

You could only stare, completely silent.

“No no no no this is a trick! Spottedleaf, please, you promised!” Redtail’s grief shook you to your core as you remained frozen, unable to process the scene in front of you.

“Yellowfang is gone!” A cat loudly yowled from the back, bringing you out of your daze. You turned to try and see who spoke.

“I always knew she was a traitor. Now we know how she managed to fight off the ShadowClan deputy. It was a setup to let her trick her way into our Clan!” Tigerclaw hissed as he lashed his tail.

“Yellowfang has killed Spottedleaf and taken my kits!” Frostfur screeched as the other queens rushed to her side to try and calm her, but Frostfur pushed them away and wailed her grief to the darkening sky. “Lionheart! Our kits are in danger!”

As if in reply lightning crackled overhead, punctuating Frostfur’s wail with a glaring flash and a clap of thunder.

Above the noise Darkstripe loudly meowed, “Bluestar! What do you say?”

Silence fell as cats turned to look at their leader. Bluestar looked back at all of you, her gaze going over the crowed until it landed on Spottedleaf. Rain slowly started to fall as Bluestar closed her grief filled eyes, taking a moment to compose herself. When she opened them again they glittered with a fierceness and she held her head high. “If Yellowfang has killed Spottedleaf and stolen Frostfur’s kits, she will be hunted down without mercy.” She start speaking, meows of approval coming from cats in the crowd. “But we must wait,” she continued, “There is a storm coming, and I am not prepared to risk more lives. If ShadowClan has our kits they will come to no immediate harm. I suspect Brokenstar wants them as recruits for his own Clan, or as hostages – to force us to let him hunt in our territory. As soon as the storm has passed, a patrol will follow Yellowfang and bring back out kits.”

“We can’t waste time the scent will be lost in the rain!” Tigerclaw protested.

“If we send out a hunting party now our efforts will be wasted anyway. In this weather the scent will already be lost by the time we are ready. If we wait until after the storm we stand a better chance of success.”

There were murmurs of agreement, and Bluestar turned to her deputy.

“Redtail we must–“

“She promised she wouldn’t leave me…” Redtail’s weak voice cut through, causing Bluestar to grit her teeth and close her eyes as she looked away.

“Tigerclaw, Whitestorm, to my den!” She called to the two tom’s. Both got up to follow her orders, Tigerclaw pausing to give you a lick.

“Stay strong,” he softly murmured before moving on.

You finally went over to Spottedleaf, sitting in front of her, but at a distance like you had done with Lionheart. Redtail was still at her side, crying his grief into her fur. You felt sick as you stared down at her, the rain causing her fur to become glossy, almost making her seem as if she were still alive.

But she was dead.

You stayed put as cat’s surrounded her to share tongues one last time. It was the sound of thunder crashing down, rain becoming heavier, that made cats start to scatter. Your claws unsheathed.

Cowards!

You grit your teeth as you finally moved closer, so that now you were right next to Spottedleaf, and it was then that you noticed.

Her eyes were open.

She...she saw the way her clanmates just… abandoned her! All because of a few drops of rain!

You growled, the sound drowned out by another crack of thunder. You carefully closed Spottedleaf’s eyes.

Was this what it meant? That 0? Did it appear just to mock you? Couldn’t warn you in any way to prevent her death?!

You barely registered Firepaw appearing, burying his face into Spottedleaf’s fur and murmuring a farewell before walking off. Redtail had finally quieted, now in a more catatonic state as he kept his head resting on his sister.

You noticed movement in your peripheral, turning to look you saw Firepaw sniffing around the camp boundaries. The gathering came to mind. You had a hunch on what Firepaw was trying to do, and your body moved before you could even think.

The speed of your movements made you almost crash into the tom, startling Firepaw. He looked into your eyes, seeing a burning rage. “What are you doing?” You hissed.

“I’m going to find Yellowfang,” He replied. He felt it best to be honest with you, no matter how it made you feel.

“You’re going to help her after she killed Spottedleaf?!” Your yell didn’t travel, drowned out by the heavy ran.

“Bluestar asked me to bring her back.” Firepaw replied earnestly, keeping eye contact with you. He then pressed his head against yours, murmuring, “(Y/n), if she’s guilty I won’t let her get away. I promise.”

You let out a whimper at the gentle touch, and the anger left your body. Not getting the response you wanted you shrunk, crouching down. “I should have stayed in camp. She trusted me to keep her safe! If I was there…”

And yet, despite everything. A part of you felt like a hypocrite. Did you hurt this much when Lionheart died? Think of how Graypaw felt? No. You were more concerned with wanting him to go back to how he was. Your mind swirled, lost in a cloud of grief, disgust making your paws feels sticky as if they had blood on them.

“Firepaw! I’ve been looking for you. What are you two doing?” Graypaw asked as he made his way over. He snapped you out of your thoughts, and you turned to look at him. Graypaw gave you a nuzzle and a lick atop your head, muttering a soft ‘sorry’.

“Bluestar asked me to bring Yellowfang back,” Firepaw told Graypaw.

“What! On your own?” Graypaw asked with concern. “Tigerclaw’s the best tracker in the Clan. Why you?”

Firepaw shook his head, “Tigerclaw’s out for revenge. He would just kill her.”

“But if she killed Spottedleaf and took the kits…”

“Then Bluestar will make sure she faces justice.”

“I’m going with you,” Graypaw told Firepaw, and the orange tom’s eyes were grateful.

“Thank you.”

You looked at the two with tired eyes, finally standing up, “Be safe,” you spoke as you nuzzled them. The two wrapped themselves around you tightly before running off towards the camp entrance.

You made your way back to Spottedleaf. Sandpaw was next to Redtail, leaning against her father. From your spot you quietly studied Spottedleaf and it was then you noticed her paws, tufts of fur between them. You carefully studied it. Despite the heavy rain making the fur darker you could tell it was..brown. You got closer, moving in a way that made it seam like you just wanted to share tongues with the she-cat. You laid, your head angled away from Redtail and Sandpaw’s view. You took a sniff of the fur caught in her claws.

You forced your fur to lie flat as you made out the scent. It was faint, but all too familiar. You wouldn’t so soon forget the scent of the cat that almost killed Redtail, almost killed you. The one Spottedleaf stopped.

.

..

…

..

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Chapter Text

As the rain finally started to let up cats came out their dens and began to gather around the Highrock. The air was thick with tension, everyone wanting to save the kits and get revenge. You watched, still next to Spottedleaf, as Bluestar emerged from her den. Whitestorm and Tigerclaw following behind her.

“We have decided Whitestorm will lead a patrol. Darkstripe, Mousefur, Runningwind, and Willowpelt will go with him. The queens and their kits will go to my den, as it has the best defense. Tigerclaw will remain here, to help protect the remaining kits.” Bluestar’s voice carried across camp.

You got up on sore legs, you had to go. Had to get revenge for Spottedleaf. Pushing your way through the crowd you looked up at Bluestar, “Can I join the patrol?”

Bluestar raised a brow at your request, studying your eyes.

“What is your goal?”

“I…” If you mentioned that Yellowfang was innocent, that would lead to them taking a look at the fur. If anyone recognized it as the cat that had attacked you and Redtail, your chance was gone. “Spottedleaf died protecting the kits. I want to help save them, in honor of her.”

“And the Thunderpath?”

“It will not stop me today.” When you spoke your eyes were full of confidence, will resolute.

Bluestar thought for a moment before speaking. “You already fought a fox and a rogue, journeyed back to ThunderClan on your own, and used your wits to delay an attack on the Clan. You can join.”

Despite the grief and rage clouding your emotions you gave a genuine smile. “Thank you Bluestar.”

Queens were carrying and ushering their kits into Bluestar’s den, and you noticed Tigerclaw helping to carry two of Brindleface’s kits, dropping them off at the entrance of Bluestar’s den before stepping away. A black and white kit, maybe about 3 moons old, eagerly began to try and help bring the two kits into the den as Tigerclaw stepped away. He began to make his way over to the nursery, and you trotted over to the tom, confused.

“Shouldn’t you be near Bluestar’s den?” You asked.

Tigerclaw shook his head, “No. The strongest warrior being there would quickly let them know something’s up. My position will be a decoy, and if they go for Bluestar’s den I can quickly join in the fight.”

Your eyes widened. “I would’ve never thought of that! I guess that’s why she’s leader.” The brown tom opened his mouth to say something, then closed it with a huff. Instead he pressed his head atop yours, and wrapped a paw around you. “Be safe, we’ve suffered enough loss lately. Don’t let yourself be lost too.”

In the warmth of his comfort you almost wanted to confess. How Yellowfang was innocent. Your real plans. But you steeled yourself, you had to be strong.

For Spottedleaf.

What you were doing was for her. You’d save the kits, avenge her death. You had to.

Tigerclaw pulled away, nudging you to the already gathering patrol before he continued his way to the nursery. You made your way to the gathered cats, and after making sure everyone was accounted for, Whitestorm started to head out. You followed, behind all the warriors except Willowpelt who took up the rear.

Your patrol set a quick pace, and it felt like you made it to the Thunderpath in the blink of an eye. You braced yourself, it was silent, there were no monsters. You reminded yourself. They were monsters.

Even so – as the cats ahead of you raced across the Thunderpath – your heart and body simultaneously stuttered when making contact, risking you freezing in the middle. A sharp nip to your tail startled you into motion, giving you the kickstart needed to keep running. After making it across you looked behind you, giving Willowpelt a grateful look. The she-cat gave you a smile and nod.

The patrol raced through ShadowClan territory as the clouds overhead finally let up, the moon starting to rise in the distance. None of you cared about noise, no attempts made to disguise your presence.

“Someone’s behind us!” An alarmed hiss from Willowpelt had the patrol stop, all of you turning around, fur bristled, ears pinned, and teeth bared. But you immediately relaxed when you saw who it was.

“Firepaw!” Whitestorm growled, “What are you doing here?”

Firepaw was out of breath, “Bluestar sent me!” he panted out in-between breaths, “She wanted me to find Yellowfang before-”

“Ah!” Whitestorm interrupted, more relaxed now. “Bluestar told me I might find a friend out here. Now I understand what she meant.”

“Is Tigerclaw nearby?” Firepaw asked.

“Bluestar needed him to remain at camp, to protect the kits.”

Firepaw nodded, relieved. Knowing the truth you couldn’t blame him. “Whitestorm I need your help. I can lead you to the kits. Graypaw and Ravenpaw are waiting for me, will you come?”

“Of course we’ll come!”

“It will mean raiding the ShadowClan camp,” Firepaw warned.

“You can lead us there?” Runningwind eagerly asked.

“No, but Yellowfang can, And she promised to bring help from old allies.”

Mousefur glared, her tail thrashing angrily, “You found her?” She hissed.

Whitestorm opened his mouth to speak but you cut him off.

“Yellowfang didn’t take the kits.”

Your clanmates gave you shocked looks, Firepaw’s eyes filled with relief.

“How do you know that? Why didn’t you mention this back at camp?” Darkstripe growled, shooting a glare Firepaw’s direction.

“I...didn’t want time to be wasted figuring out who killed Spottedleaf. I didn’t smell any traces of Yellowfang around her and-”

“The rain would have washed it away!” Mousefur snapped.

“The fur caught in her claws wasn’t gray!” You snapped back, fur bristled in irritation at being interrupted. Mousefur gave you a harsh glare. “Sorry,” you muttered, not sorry at all. Mousefur lowly growled.

“Now’s not the time for fighting,” Whitestorm scolded. He studied you like Bluestar had earlier, and you turned your gaze away from him, causing the tom to sigh. “I will take Firepaw and (Y/n)’s word. We can check Spottedleaf later to fully confirm.” He then turned his attention to Firepaw, “Lead the way.”

.

..

.

Firepaw led the patrol to an ash tree, where Graypaw and Ravenpaw were pacing restlessly around its rotten trunk. But upon noticing the patrol the two stopped. Instinctively, you and Ravenpaw approached each other, the black tom pressing into you with a soft purr. The two of you sat down, and Graypaw joined in on the cuddling, sitting on the other side of you.

“Any sign of Yellowfang?” Firepaw asked.

“Not yet,” Graypaw answered.

Some of the cats from the patrol bristled.

“We don’t know how far it is to the elder camp,” Firepaw quickly spoke up.

“The elder camp?” you asked.

Firepaw nodded, “Brokenstar kicked the elders out of the Clan and forced them to hunt and survive with only each other.” Your lips curled at the news as you heard Whitestorm growl out a ‘disgusting!’ You couldn’t agree more. “She will come back.”

“Well said, young Firepaw,” Yellowfang spoke as she stalked out from behind the ash tree, causing you and Ravenpaw to jump up, startled. “Remember the day we met? You were looking in the wrong direction that time too.”

Three other ShadowClan cats appeared from behind the tree and settled themselves on either side of Yellowfang, and the cats from your patrol bristled, alert and suspicious.

There was an uncomfortable silence as the cats stared each other down, but you were impatient. “What’s the plan? How will we save the kits?” You demanded, breaking the silence as you looked at the cats from both groups.

“First, let me introduce my old friends,” Yellowfang meowed, weaving her way around the ShadowClan cats. She brushed past the gray tom first, “This is Ashfur.”

She circled a battered black tom next, “And this is Nightpelt, a senior warrior before Raggedstar was killed.” The cat didn’t look as old as the ones around him, not ready to be an elder. But...there was a sickly look about him that reminded you of the ShadowClan medicine cat, Runningnose.

She then went to the last cat, a small tabby. “And this is one of the elder queens, Dawncloud. Two of her kits died driving out WindClan.”

“I don’t wish to see any more kits die,” she spoke up.

Whitestorm gave his chest a quick lick to smooth down the fur before speaking, “You all are clearly skilled warriors if you managed to creep up on us like that. But are there enough of you? We need to know what we’ll face when we raid the ShadowClan camp.”

“The old and sick of ShadowClan are slowly starving,” Ashfur meowed. “The casualties among us are more than we can cope with.”

“But if ShadowClan is such a mess,” Darkstripe spoke up, “how come you’ve shown so much strength lately. And why is Brokenstar still your eader?”

“Brokenstar is surrounded by a group of elite warriors,” Ashfur started to speak, “They are the ones to fear, because they would die for him without question. The other warriors only obey his orders because they are frightened. They will fight by his side as long as they think Brokenstar is going to win. If they thought he would lose…”

“They would fight against him, not for him!” Darkstripe finished, voice filled with disgust. “What sort of loyalty is that?”

The hackles of the ShadowClan cats began to rise.

“Would you willingly follow a leader that forced kits to fight to the death?! ThunderClan doesn’t exactly have a spotless record either,” You hissed, shocking the cats around you as you turned to glare at Darkstripe. The black tabby snarled but said nothing.

Whitestorm on the other paw, closed his eyes as he struggled to keep a straight face. Forcing a frown. Despite the tense situation he wanted to laugh, Darkstripe totally deserved that.

“ShadowClan wasn’t always like this. Our strength used to come from the warrior code and Clan loyalty,” Yellowfang sighed. “If only Raggedstar lived long.”

Firepaw then spoke up, “Is there any way of taking the kits without alerting the Clan?”

“Brokenstar will be expecting ThunderClan. Open attack is your only hope.”

“Then we must concentrate our attack on Brokenstar and his inner guard,” Whitestorm meowed.

“The ShadowClan elders will lead me into camp,” Yellowfang started, “They will say they captured me, to bring Brokenstar and his warriors out their dens. Once they’re all out in the open, I’ll give the signal for you to attack.”

Whitestorm was silent for a moment as he ran the plan through his mind, then nodded, face grave as he committed his warriors to the attack. “Very well, Yellowfang. Please lead the way to ShadowClan camp.”

.

..

.

The air was tense as Yellowfang led the way through the bracken, worries of chill forgotten as all of you were eager to rescue the kits.

Yellowfang guided you all to a small hollow surrounded by thick undergrowth, and pointed out the entrance to the ShadowClan camp. The brambles were a tangled mass, the camp boundary filled with holes and gaps, and the stench of rot wafted from it.

“You eat crow-food?” Graypaw whispered, curling his lips.

“Our warriors are used for attacking, not hunting,” Ashfur replied, “We eat whatever we can find.”

“ThunderClan, hide in that clump of bracken over there,” Yellowfang hissed. “It’s full of toadstools that will disguise your scent. Wait there till you hear me call.”

She stepped back to let the other ShadowClan cats lead the way, tucking herself into the center of the group as though she were their prisoner. They headed silently into the camp.

The rest of you settled among the toadstool, the smell so strong you could practically taste it. You all were ready to pounce at a moment’s notice, Ravenpaw next to you with wide, anxious, eyes. Firepaw on the other side of you, fur prickled, and next to him, Graypaw was panting with barely suppressed excitement. You dug your claws into the soft, damp earth, filled with a calm determination as you glared at the entrance.

A yowl came from the ShadowClan camp, and without hesitation all of you sprang from the bracken and headed straight for the entrance.

Your patrol assessed the situation, the elders were in a well-trodden, muddy, clearing – wrestling with vicious looking warriors. You quickly recognized Brokenstar’s flat face, and the deputy Blackfoot. All the warriors had patchy fur and were underweight, but the muscles underneath their fur was well defined. Around the clearing malnourished and underweight cats watched, eyes full of anxiety and confusion at the fighting. Waiting to see what moves they should make.

With confirmation it wasn’t a trap, Whitestorm gave the signal to join the fray. Your eyes scanned the clearing, looking for the tom that killed Spottedleaf, not noticing the way Whitestorm kept an eye on you with his peripheral vision.

But you saw no sight of him, and quickly joined the battle. You rushed, ramming into a cat that was attacking Nightpelt. You dug your claws into the she-cat, causing her to screech. She delivered a strong blow to you, but you manged to deliver one in return. And then she let out a yowl as Nightpelt sunk his teeth into her flank. She twisted, lashing at him and darting off as soon as he let go.

As Graypaw and Mousefur chased off another warrior, an angry screech came from behind Graypaw, and the tom leaped out the way. Yellowfang was gripping Brokenstar with muddy, bloodstained paws. His was bleeding from several wounds, and his ears were flat against his head as Yellowfang overpowered him.

Seeing the old she-cat had the upperpaw, you focused on fighting off more warriors. You ran to help Ashfur, who was being battered by one of Brokenstar’s warriors, but seeing you approach the warrior fled, not wanting to risk more injury. You helped Ashfur up to his paws, looking over his wounds. They were harsh, but wouldn’t kill him.

“I never thought you would be harder to kill than my father!” Brokenstar snarled from across the clearing. Your head snapped towards the two, eyes wide, while Ashfur let out a shocked gasp.

Yellowfang’s face twisted in shock, eyes wide with grief as she loosened her grip. Brokenstar didn’t hesitate, instantly throwing her aside.

“You killed Raggedstar?” Yellowfang wailed, eyes wide with disbelief.

A cat launched themself at you, using the shock of the situation to their advantage. You were knocked flat but twisted onto your back, using your back legs to claw at their underside. And Ashfur dug his claws into the toms side, ignoring the burn of his own wounds as he dragged the tom off of you.

Brokenstar sneered, “Did you not recognize my fur between his claws?” His voiced carried across the fighting, loud and taunting, as Yellowfang stared at him in horror. “He was a soft and foolish leader. He deserved to die!”

“No!” Yellowfang hissed, her head dropping. Then she gave herself a shake and looked at Brokenstar, arching her back. “And Brightflower’s kits? Did they deserve to die too?!” She rasped. The tom you and Ashfur were fighting stopped at that, backing away and looking at his leader with wide, confused eyes. You were quick to get up and looked back over to the scene yourself.

Brokenstar growled and launched himself at Yellowfang, knocking her over. She didn’t struggle, her mind clouded with grief as he dug his sharp claws into her.

“Those kits were weak,” Brokenstar hissed. The cat that had attacked you and Ashfur let out a hiss himself. “They would have been no use to ShadowClan. If I hadn’t killed them, some other warrior would have.”

A wail of grief came from a ShadowClan she-cat, and some of them began to bristle. The enemy tom near you let out a soft ‘no!’ before running off into the bracken. The news of the kits broke the ShadowClan cats, with rage they joined the fray, slashing at some of Brokenstar’s warriors and quickly turning the tide.

“Firepaw!” You heard Dawncloud screech, “Watch out! Clawface is-” You turned to see a tom, Spottedleaf’s murderer, crash into Firepaw. Attacking the orange tom the same way he had attack Redtail. Your eyes blazed to life, and you darted towards the two. You jumped onto Clawface’s back, this time catching him by surprise. He let Firepaw go with a snarl, and quickly reared onto his hind legs. Firepaw took the chance to dart off. Clawface began to fall back, intending to crush you with his weight, but you let go and rolled out the way as he hit the ground hard enough to leave himself winded. You began to attack Clawface, the tom not able to effectively block your attacks or land ones of his own. Instead he focused on defense, keeping his throat protected, causing you to become angrier.

You bit down on one of Clawface’s forepaws, giving a harsh bite that went straight to the bone. You didn’t hear Ravenpaw’s frightened call of your name as Clawface let out a yowl, trying to slash at you and leaving his throat open.

“I should have killed you when I had the chance,” Brokenstar raged at Yellowfang. “I was a fool to let you leave ShadowClan alive!” He lunged to sink his teeth into her neck.

There was no hesitation in your movements as you dug your claws into Clawface’s chest, anchoring yourself to him as you went for his throat, revenge your only goal.

Before Brokenstar could sink his teeth into Yellowfang, Firepaw reached the two. Brokenstar’s matted fur made it easy for Firepaw to dig his claws in and drag the leader off the exhausted medicine cat.

And like Brokenstar, you were yanked off of your target. Teeth dug into your scruff, and you were flung off the tom, a trail of blood flowing with you as your claws were harshly ripped out of his chest. You looked up to see Whitestorm.

“Do not do things you can’t take back!” He snarled. Clawface took the opening and ran off on three legs.

You got up, ears pinned and looking away from Whitestorm, trying to see if there were more warriors to fight. But thanks to the ShadowClan cats, the rest of Brokenstar’s warriors were sent fleeing.

Brokenstar broke away from Firepaw, spitting at him. “Don’t waste your time apprentice! I shared dreams with StarClan. You will have to kill me nine times over before I join them.” He spoke with confidence, and Whitestorm started to run over to Firepaw.

“Hey!” A tiny voice called, and you looked down, seeing one of the kits that you had met on the outskirts of WindClan territory. “The kits are over here!” She excitedly called out as she turned and ran. You took a look behind you, the ShadowClan cats were all slowly circling Brokenstar as he stared down Firepaw. You turned to follow the kit and was led to a poorly dug hole covered by leaves and twigs, and could hear mewling as you started to move the foliage out the way.

Brokenstar nervously flicked his tail once he realized he was outnumbered, crouching and backing away.

“This isn’t over,” he hissed before turning tail and fleeing into the forest.

Ravenpaw and Graypaw appeared next to you, hearing the noises from the hole. “The kits are here!” Graypaw called out as the three of you dug into the foliage. Mousefur rushed over to help, and when the kits were revealed you looked at them softly. They were dirty, and definitely had to be hungry. The four of you scooped the kits out of the pit, setting them down gently.

“Are they okay?” Whitestorm asked as he made his way over, tail twitching with anxiety.

“Only a few scratches, but this one has a nasty cut on his ear, can you take a look Yellowfang?” Graypaw called out to the she-cat.

Yellowfang, who had been licking her wounds, immediately stopped and trotted over to the tabby kit. Mousefur gathered the other three kits around her, giving them licks and caresses to comfort them.

“We need to stop the bleeding,” Yellowfang meowed after looking at the torn ear.

“Already got some cobweb!” Runningwind meowed as he appeared from the bushes, his forepaw coated in it. He passed it to Yellowfang, and she thanked him as she began to treat the kit’s wound.

You looked to the ShadowClan kit that led you to the four, “Thank you.” You purred. She looked up at you, happy and unbothered by the carnage around her. She looked to be the same age as Frostfur’s kits, but already had more strength, and scars that no kit should.

“You’re welcome! I don’t know why they were brought here, they’re too weak to be ShadowClan warriors!” She loudly proclaimed, chest puffed out with pride at her strength. You looked at her softly. “I’m sorry.”

It was all you could offer, knowing she was too young to understand that she had her kithood ripped away from her far too soon. The kit gave you a confused look and frown. “For what?”

You just shook your head, “Don’t worry about it. I’m sure you’ll be the best warrior when the time comes, but you still have many moons to go.”

The kit grumbled at that, ears pinned. You felt bad for ruining the kits mood.

“Don’t be too sad. One of the greatest leaders is Crookedstar! And he was an apprentice for much longer than any other cat. It just means more training and more experience,” The kits eyes went wide.

“So if I’m an apprentice for longer I’ll become leader?!” She asked in excitement.

“Not exactly, but with more experience you’ll be more likely to,” you offered, and it seemed to be good enough of an answer for the kit as she excitedly ran off, launching herself at a random feather lying on the ground.

Nightpelt approached your group, “You helped ShadowClan rid itself of a brutal and dangerous leader, and we are grateful. But it is time you left our camp and returned to your own. I promise your hunting grounds will be free of ShadowClan warriors as long as we can find enough food in our own territory.”

Whitestorm nodded, “Hunt in peace for one moon, Nightpelt. ThunderClan knows you need time to rebuild your Clan.” He then turned his attention to Yellowfang, “And you, Yellowfang?” He asked. “Do you wish to return with us, or stay here with your old comrades?"

Yellowfang glanced at a deep gash on Whitestorm’s hind leg. “I will make the journey back with you. Your Clan will need a medicine cat.”

“Thank you,” Whitestorm purred. With a sweep of his tail he started to lead the ThunderClan cats out of the clearing. Mousefur and Willowpelt helped the kits, who stumbled exhausted and bewildered. Yellowfang staying close to them and helping the injured tabby kit.

“Wait Yellowfang!” And orange tabby she-cat with a flat face like Yellowfang’s called out. Yellowfang turned to look at the tabby, but didn’t meet her eyes. “You should be here, with ShadowClan.” The tabby pleaded, trying to look Yellowfang in the eyes.

“My time here has long passed.”

“I’m so sorry Yellowfang, I shouldn’t have believed him.” But Yellowfang turned back around, ears pinned as she looked to be holding back tears. The orange tabby sank to the ground as she started to cry, and you realized she had been the cat that cried out earlier when Brokenstar revealed that he was the one to kill the kits.

You and your three friends quietly followed Yellowfang out the camp, Firepaw and Graypaw ahead of you and Ravenpaw. You took note of the way Ravenpaw trembled, and it wasn’t long before the tom stopped, gasping as if he couldn’t catch his breath.

“Ravenpaw, are you hurt?” You looked him over, wondering if one of his wounds was deeper than it seemed.

“Were you going to kill that cat?” Your fur bristled a bit at the question.

“I...yes.” Ravenpaw’s eyes widened, fear clear in his eyes. “That...that was Spottedleaf’s killer Ravenpaw. He killed a medicine cat.”

“I met a cat in my dreams,” Ravenpaw let out a hiss, “She said that you, you’d be just like Brokenstar.” You looked at your friend shocked.

“I’m nothing like that cat!” You screeched, causing the cats of your patrol to realize the two of you were falling behind.

“Are you sure about that? You looked a lot like him when you were trying to kill Clawface,” Ravenpaw let out another low hiss, as his eyes began to wet with unshed tears.

“What’s going on?” Whitestorm was the first to make it over, Firepaw and Graypaw with him. He told the rest of the patrol to go on ahead to get the kits home, only Yellowfang staying behind.

“This fighting, it’ll never end!”

“What do you mean? Brokenstar is gone, things will get better now!” Graypaw spoke up, going to give Ravenpaw a nuzzle. But the black tom pushed him away.

“Will it?” He growled, giving you a pointed look.

“Ravenpaw I’m sorry! I won’t do it again, I promise!”

But Ravenpaw just shook his head. “You wouldn’t understand. StarClan showed me my path, If I had left sooner Spottedleaf wouldn’t have died! And if I stay you-” The tom grit his teeth. “My place isn’t here, I have to leave!”

Before anyone could respond Ravenpaw turned tail and bolted.

“Ravenpaw!” You screeched the tom’s name as you darted after him. But once again you were stopped by Whitestorm. You thrashed in the tom’s grip, but he held tightly to your scruff before forcefully pinning you onto your stomach. “Let me go! I can stop him!” You yelled in a panic as you tried to pull yourself from Whitestorm’s grasp.

“You can’t force someone to have the heart of a warrior!” Whitestorm yowled, his voice overtaking yours. He then hauled you up by your scruff. “You’ve suffered enough loss today, (Y/n), we must get you home.”

“How could he…” You heard Graypaw whisper, voice filled with pain and disbelief.

You planned to fight again, you could still reach Ravenpaw, knew he had to be going to Barley’s barn. But as the wind blew – in the forest of pine – maple leaves flew past you. And the rustling of the pine leaves sounded more like hissing, mocking, laughter. You could only stare ahead in silence as Whitestorm finally let you go, and Graypaw and Firepaw pressed themselves on either side of you.

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