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Chapter Text

RIVERCLAN

Leader: Hailstar- Man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a gray cloak.

Deputy: Shellheart- Man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a dappled gray cloak.

Healer: Brambleberry- Woman with blonde hair and blue eyes. She wears a black and whie cloak.

Warriors: Rippleclaw- Man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a black and silver cloak.

Timberfur- Man with brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a brown cloak.

Mudfur- Man with light brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a brown cloak.

Owlfur- Man with brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a brown and whie cloak.

Ottersplash- Woman with blonde hair and brown eyes. She wears a white and yellow cloak.

Cedarpelt- Short man with brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a brown striped cloak.

Lilystem- Woman with black hair and brown eyes. She wears a gray cloak.

Brightsky- Woman with orange hair and brown eyes. She wears a white and orange cloak.

Piketooth- Skinny man with brown hair, brown eyes, and rotten teeth. He wears a brown striped cloak.

Lakeshine- Woman with black hair and brown eyes. She wears a gray and white cloak.

Shimmerpelt- Woman with black hair and brown eyes. She wears a black cloak.

Fallowtail- Woman with light brown hair and blue eyes. She wears a light brown cloak.

Apprentices: Soft- Small girl with brown hair and brown eyes. She wears a white and brown striped cloak.

White- Boy with blonde hair and brown eyes. He wears a white and brown striped cloak.

Nursery: Echoist- Woman with black hair and brown eyes. She wears a gray, white frosted cloak. (Mother to Petal; girl with dirty blonde hair and brown eyes, Vole; boy with black hair and brown eyes and Beetle; boy with black hair and brown eyes)

Rainflower- Woman with black hair and brown eyes. She wears a light gray cloak. (Mother to Storm; boy with light brown hair and green eyes, and Oak; boy with auburn hair and brown eyes)

Elders: Troutclaw- Man with graying black hair and brown eyes. He wears a gray striped cloak.

Tanglewhisker- Man with brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a striped cloak.

Birdsong- Woman with graying brown hair and brown eyes. She wears a white and orange striped cloak.

THUNDERCLAN

Pinestar- Man with auburn hair and green eyes. He wears a reddish brown cloak.

Sunfall- Man with blonde hair and brown eyes. He wears a bright yellow cloak.

Healer: Goosefeaher- Man with black hair and blue eyes. He wears a speckled gray cloak.
Apprentice- Featherwhisker

Warriors: Stonepelt- Man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a gray cloak.

Stormtail- Man with black hair and blue eyes. He wears a blue cloak.

Adderfang- Man with brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a mottled brown striped cloak.

Tawnyspots- Man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a light gray striped cloak.

Sparrowpelt- Big man with dark brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a dark brown striped cloak.

Smallear- Man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a gray cloak.
Apprentice- White

Thrushpelt- Man with blonde hair and green eyes. He wears a gray and white cloak.

Robinwing- Small woman with brown hair and brown eyes. She wears a brown and red cloak.

Fuzzypelt- Man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a black cloak.

Windflight- Man with black hair and green eyes. He wears a gray striped cloak.
Apprentice- Dapple

Speckletail- Woman with light brown hair and brown eyes. She wears a striped cloak.

Nursery: Swiftbreeze- Woman with brown hair and brown eyes. She wears a striped white cloak. (Mother to Leopard; girl with black hair and green eyes, and Patch; small boy with black hair and brown eyes)

Moonflower- Woman with black hair and light brown eyes. She wears a silver cloak. (Mother to Snow; girl with blonde hair and blue eyes, and Blue; girl with black hair and blue eyes)

Poppydawn- Woman with red hair and brown eyes. She wears a dark red cloak. (Mother to Thistle; boy with black hair and brown eyes, Rose; girl with black hair and brown eyes, and Sweet; small girl with dirty blonde hair)

Elders: Weedwhisker- Man with blonde hair and brown eyes. He wears a light orange cloak.

Mumblefoot- Man with brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a brown cloak.

Larksong- Woman with dirty blonde hair and green eyes. She wears a dappled cloak.

SHADOWCLAN

Leader: Cedarstar- Man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a dark gray and white cloak.

Deputy: Stonetooth- Man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a gray striped cloak.

Healer: Sagewhisker- Woman with blonde hair and brown eyes. She wears a white cloak.
Apprentice- Yellowfang

Warriors: Raggedpelt- Large man with dark brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a dark brown striped cloak.

Foxheart- Woman with orange hair and brown eyes. She wears a light orange cloak.

Crowtail- Woman with black hair and brown eyes. She wears a black striped cloak.

Brackenfoot- Man with orange hair and brown eyes. He wears a mottled orange cloak.

Archeye- Man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a gray cloak striped with black.

Hollyflower- Woman with black hair and brown eyes. She wears a dark gray and white cloak.

Featherstorm- Woman with brown hair and brown eyes. She wears a brown striped cloak.

Poolcloud- Woman with black hair and brown eyes. She wears a gray and white cloak.

Elders: Littlebird- Small woman with orange hair and brown eyes. She wears an orange striped cloak.

Lizardfang- Man with light brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a light brown striped cloak.

WINDCLAN

Leader: Heatherstar- Woman with black hair and violet eyes. She wears a pink cloak.

Deputy: Reedfeather- Man with light brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a light brown striped cloak.

Hawkheart- Man with dark brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a dark brown cloak.

Warriors: Dawnstripe- Woman with blonde hair and brown eyes. She wears a light yellow striped cloak.

Talltail- Man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a black and white cloak.

Redclaw- Man with red hair and brown eyes. He wears a dark red cloak.

Elders: Whiteberry- Small man with white hair and brown eyes. He wears a white cloak.

Chapter Text

Wind rattled the branches of the willow trees, tearing through the reedbeds.

“Hailstar!”

Thick storm clouds swirled across the night-dark sky. Rain battered the tightly woven huts where the RiverClan warriors slept.

“Hailstar!”

The RiverClan leader turned at his wife’s terrified cry. His feet sank into the mud, water swirling around his legs. The river had broken the banks and streamed into camp.

“Hailstar!” Echomist cried again. She held a newborn baby in one arm and a toddler in the other. Another child clung to her leg. She was starting at the beds made from clothe and twigs as they spun away in the floodwater. One of them caught the little girl’s leg, sweeping her away.

Hailstar dove for the nest and grabbed his daughter before she was swept away with the river. He handed her to Timberfur, who was chasing after the beds. “Take Petal to the elder’s hut!”

The dark haired man took the dripping girl and hurried for the highest end of camp where the elder’s hut was still untouched by the rising water.

“Take the boys with him!” Hailstar ordered Echomist. She nodded, eyes huge with fear, her long black hair sticking to her face because of the rain.

Hailstar scanned the camp. Figures darted back and forth like fish. A lithe woman was clinging to the remains of her hut, trying to keep it together. A stout man tried to block the foaming channel where beds were swirling into the river.

The sky lit up with a white flare of lightning. Thunder crashed and the wind hardened. Another wave of water surged through the camp.

“Shellheart!” Hailstar called to his deputy. “How’s it look?”

A dark haired man was peering upriver from a beech stump among the reeds. “The water’s rising fast, Hailstar!” he called back. “The elder’s hut won’t be safe for much longer.”

“We’ll have to abandon camp.”

“No!” The lithe women let go of her hut to face the RiverClan leader.

“We must, Brightsky!” Hailstar urged.

“We can’t leave!”

“We’ll come back and rebuild!” Hailstar snapped.

“It won’t be the same!” Brightsky plunged through the floods and grabbed a floating bed.

Shellheart splashed toward her. “We can rebuild it,” he insisted. “But we can’t rebuild anyone who drowns while trying to save twigs.”

Brightsky reluctantly let go of the bed and watched it spin away into the reeds. Then she raced for the high end of camp.

Bubbling water surged around the edge of the elder’s hut. “Get out!” Hailstar called.

Echomist slid through the entrance, now only the newborn in her arms. Her other children followed. “Where should we go?”

“High ground.” Hailstar pointed uphill.

One of the elders followed Echomist out of the hut. “I’ve never seen a storm this bad.”

A woman emerged. “Where are we going?” she rasped.

The man put a hand on her shoulder. “Further inland, Birdsong. We’ll be safe there.”

Birdsong’s eyes widened. “Away from the river?”

“Only for a day or so,” Hailstar promised. “Come on, everyone.”

“Wait!” Shellheart stopped halfway up the slope. “Where’s Rainflower?”

“Here!” A woman with black hair was picking her away through the swirling water. Her stomach was swollen with an unborn child.

“Are you alright?” Shellheart asked.

“I’m fine.” She was out of breath.

A small, young girl followed the woman. “Her water broke. We need to get her to high ground.”

Shellheart’s eyes widened. “The baby’s on its way? At a time like this?”

Rainflower frowned. “I didn’t ask it to, Shellheart. Now go help Hailstar. I’ll be fine.”

Shellheart wasn’t sure. “Rippleclaw?” he called.

“Here!” A dark haired man was holding open a gap in the reeds so his Clanmates could get through.

“Get everyone into the trees.”

Rippleclaw nodded and nudged a graying elder through the gap.

“I can’t go without Duskwater!” The elder growled. “She’s missing!”

“We’ll find her,” Rippleclaw called over the wind. He glanced at his leader, who was rooted on the slopes, eyes wide. “Can you see her, Hailstar?”

Hailstar shook his head. “I’ll check all the huts!” He plunged toward the nursery, peering inside.

It was deserted. He checked the apprentice’s hut, then warriors’ huts, but there was no one. He glanced around camp, fighting to keep his balance as the water tugged his pant legs. Finally, he crossed the clearing to follow his Clan.

“Is everyone here?” he asked, caughting up to his Clanmates.

Rippleclaw scowled. “We can’t find Duskwater.”

Brightsky stepped forward. “I’ll go back and find her.”

Hailstar nodded. “The rest of you get to the trees,” he ordered.

As Brightsly dived down the bank, Rainflower let out a groan, nearly collapsing.

Brambleberry ducked down beside her. “She’s gone into labor,” she announced. “We need to get her somewhere safe.”

“Into the trees,” Shellheart suggested.

“She can’t move that far.” Brambleberry glanced up at the wide, low branch of an ancient oak that hung overheard. “Do you think you could carry her up there?”

Shellheart raised his head. “If I have to.” He grabbed Rainflower, lifting her into one arm and pushing her up the thick trunk.

Rainflower groaned in pain as a contraction made her body spasm.

“Come on!” Brambleberry said briskly. “We don’t have a lot of time.”

Rainflower gripped the bark as Shellheart shoved her up. Panting, she hauled herself onto the wide branch.

Brambleberry climbed up after her, slipping past Shellheart. She glanced at the branch. It was wide enough to hold them, as long as they didn’t teeter. “This will do.” She turned to Shellheart. “Can you get herbs from my hut?”

Shellheart nodded. “I’ll try.”

“Be careful!” Rainflower gasped, but Shellheart had already jumped down from the branch and onto the slippery ground below, racing for the flooded camp.

Brambleberry cleared wet leaves off the branch. “There’s plenty of room,” she said.

“Will he be alright?” Rainflower groaned. She stared into the darkness where Shellheart had disappeared.

“He can take care of himself,” Brambleberry said. She’d only been RiverClan’s sole healer for three months after her mentor, Milkfur, had joined StarClan. This was her first birth on her own.

Rainflower shuddered as another wave of pain passed through her. Brambleberry took a deep breath, laying her hand on Rainflower’s bulging stomach as another contraction gripped the pregnant woman.

Brambleberry scanned the reed bed. “Here.” She broke off a twig and handed it to Rainflower. “Bite down on this.”

Rainflower groaned and pressed the stick between her teeth, shuddering.

Shellheart finally scrambled back onto the branch. “Sorry,” he panted. He was completely soaked. “I had to swim to your hut. All your herbs were washed away.”

Brambleberry closed her eyes, frustrated. Just then, Rainflower cried out, crunching on the stick.

The baby was coming.

Brambleberry leaned down to help ease the newborn onto the rough bark. She unclipped her cloak and wrapped the tiny thing up, then handled it to its father. “Don’t drop it,” she warned.

“Is everything okay?” Brightsky called from the bottom of the tree. Water lapped around her ankles.

“The baby is fine,” Brambleberry reported.

Shellheart looked down. “Did you find Dukwater?”

“No sign of her,” Brightsky replied heavily.

Shellheart nodded solemnly. “Join the others. We’re fine. Come back once the water goes down.”

“It’s a boy,” Brambleberry reported, inspecting the bundle.

“He’s perfect,” Shellheart whispered.

Rainflower smiled weakly. “I think we should call him Storm, for the storm that came when he was born.”

“Babies born into a storm like this one are destined to be great warriors,” Shellheart murmured. He gazed at his wife. “Maybe even leader of RiverClan.”

Chapter Text

Storm edged farther along the slippery branch. Beetle had said he couldn’t get to the end without falling, and he was determined to prove him wrong.

He kept his grip on the frozen bark. From here, he could see all the way downstream, as far as the bend in the river. He could see the stepping stones that sat there. On the far shore was Sunningrocks, its sheer side shadowing the water. Its wide, smooth stones sparkled with frost. Storm raised his head. He’d seen farther than any kid in the Clan! They’d never even see past the reed bed.

“Be careful!” Oak called from the base of the tree.

“Shut up, Oak! I’m a warrior!” Storm looked into the dense forest of reeds that jutted out from the ice cold river. Minnows flitted between the stems, their scales flashing in the sunlight.

He wondered if he could lean down and catch one. He pressed his stomach to the bark, wrapping his legs around the narrow branch, and let his hand fall to the water. His finger tips hardly brushed the top of the reeds.

“What are you doing?” Oak yelped.

“Leave him be!” Rainflower called from the clearing, a smile in her voice. “Your brother has the courage of a warrior.”

Storm clung to the branch. He was born in a storm- he’d be the strongest warrior in RiverClan!

“Storm!” Oak squeaked.

A rush of wind tugged Storm’s brown hair. A flurry of black and white feathers battered his head. Talons scraped his spin.

Storm let go of the branch, surprised by the magpie’s attack. He plummeted into the reeds and crashed through the thin ice. The freezing water stole his breath. Minnows darted away as he thrashed in the water.

River water flooded his mouth, tasting of stones and weeds. Spluttering, he struggled to swim, but the stiff reeds caught his flailing limbs. Panic shot through him as he fought to get his head above the water.

Suddenly, the stems beside him swished apart and Tanglewhisker plunged through.

“I’m okay!” Storm spluttered. Water rushed out of his mouth when the elder tore him from under the surface.

Storm was shivering as Tanglewhisker pushed back through the reeds and dropped him unceremoniously on the bank in front of his mother.

“Nice dive, Storm!” Vole teased.

“Like a kingfisher,” Beetle added.

Storm blushed a the older boys crowded around him. Beetle was only older than him by a month, but still loomed over him.

Echomist crossed her arms. “Don’t tease him, boys.”

Petal pushed past her younger brothers. “I wasn’t teasing!” The pretty blonde girl stuck her nose in the air. “I think he was brave to try!”

Rainflower wiped the water from Storm’s eyes. “Next time, keep your grip.”

Storm batted her away. “I will.”

Tanglewhisker was starting to shiver from the cold water and Birdsong hurried down the slope out of the elder’s hut. “You’ll get sick!” she scolded.

Tanglewhisker turned to his wife. “Was I supposed to let him drown?”

“One of the warriors would have gotten him,” Birdsong retorted.

Tanglewhisker shrugged. “Not soon enough.”

Rainflower smiled. “I think Storm would have found his own way out. He’s strong.”

Storm felt warm from his mother’s praise. He looked around the clearing. This was his home in RiverClan, the greatest Clan of all.

Timberfur and Cedarpelt were carrying bundles of freshly picked dry reeds across the clearing to where Soft and White were weaving them into the apprentice’s hut. Farther along the river’s edge, Shellheart and Ottersplash were gathering more stems. Fallowtail was helping Brambleberry clear out old herbs. Owlfur and Lakeshine were gutting fish by the firepit.

Oak stared up at Storm. “I told you to be careful.” He was younger by two years and still a small toddler.

“I wouldn’t have fallen if that magpie hadn’t attacked me,” Storm growled.

“You wouldn’t have fallen if you’d stayed on the ground.” A deep voice sounded from behind them.

Storm spun around.

Hailstar was staring down at him, looking amused. “Shellheart!” He called to his deputy.

Shellheart raised his head, glancing at Storm. “Is everything okay?”

“You son will make a brave warrior,” Hailstar said. “If he doesn’t drown himself before he’s twelve.”

Shellheart smiled. “We’d better send a patrol after that magpie. Before it goes after the kids again.”

Hailstar sniffed in disgust. Not many of RiverClan liked the taste of bird, but they needed to eat whatever they could find until the fish population recovered from the winter. “Wait for Rippleclaw’s patrol to return,” he ordered.

“I hope they’ve found something to eat,” Tanglewhisker muttered.

“I’m sure they have,” Birdsong said.

As though on cue, Storm heard footsteps racing toward camp. The sedge woven wall rustled as Rippleclaw burst into the clearing.

“Did you catch anything?” Birdsong called.

Rippleclaw shook his head. “Sunningrocks!” he gasped. “ThunderClan has taken Sunningrocks!”

“ThunderClan!” Storm raced for the willow tree and jumped back up the trunk. He scooted along the icy branch that stretched over the river. He could see the scrawny figures of ThunderClan warriors swarming around the huge gray rocks.

“How dare they?” Shellheart growled. The willow shook as he climbed up after his son, peering through the branches. “I don’t believe it! Even Pinestar’s there.”

Storm saw a bulky, red haired man laying on the rocks, arms behind his head.

Rippleclaw was standing in the clearing, arms crossed. “They must think we’ve forgotten how to fight!”

The sedge swished as Mudfur and Brightsky raced into camp. Piketooth followed, a fat carp skewered on his spear. “Who’s going to lead the battle patrol?” he asked Hailstar.

Storm grumbled, wishing he was an apprentice already. Then he could join the patrol and drive off those fiends from ThunderClan.

“What’s going on?” Troutclaw emerged from the elder’s hut, his graying dark hair ruffled from sleep.

“There are ThunderClan warriors on Sunningrocks!” Storm called from the willow tree.

Hailstar looked up. “Get down from there, Storm,” he growled. “Before you fall again.”

Storm backed off the branch and climbed down from the trunk.

Shellheart followed. “Are we just going to let them get away with this?”

“They must know we can see them,” Rippleclaw growled.

“Which means they’ll be ready for an attack.” Troutclaw trotted down the slope. “How can we win a battle when they’re more prepared?”

“We can win!” Storm called.

“Hush, Storm!” Shellheart snapped.

Timberfur crossed the clearing, his eyes dark. “We could lose.”

Cedarpelt joined Troutclaw. “Sunningrocks has always been hard to defend.”

Storm stiffened. “We can’t let ThunderClan have it!”

Shellheart turned on him. “Keep out of this, son. The adults are talking.”

Rainflower hurried over to take Storm’s hand. “Leave them be, Storm. Your bravery will be useful when you begin your training.”

Storm shut his mouth indignantly. One day, he’d be leader, and he could be in all the battle conversations he wanted.

“Brambleberry!” Hailstar called to his healer, who was just emerging from her hut. “Do you think we should fight?”

Brambleberry shook her head. “Not now. Winter has exhausted my herb stores, and I won’t have more for a while now.”

Hailstar sighed. “I don’t want to start a battle if there’s so little chance we’ll win. And I don’t want warriors injured if they can’t be healed.”

Rippleclaw huffed. “So we’re just gonna let them take our land?”

“They only want Sunningrocks,” Echomist pointed out. “They won’t cross the river.”

“But we need Sunningrocks to hunt on,” Piketooth growled. “It took all morning just to find one miserable carp.”

Echomist nodded. “But it’s nearly Spring. It won’t be long until the fish populations soar back up. And right now I’d rather go hungry that lose Clanmates.”

Piketooth frowned. “We can’t give up without a fight.”

“We won’t.” Hailstar crossed the clearing and climbed onto a low, solid branch of the willow. He glanced toward Sunningrocks. “Shellheart, take Rippleclaw, Ottersplash and Brightsky to Sunningrocks. Don’t fight. Warn Pinestar that Sunningrocks belong to RiverClan, and we won’t give them up so easily.”

“Don’t worry. They’ll get the message.” Shellheart nodded to Rippleclaw, Brightsky and Ottersplash, then headed for the camp entrance.

“Come on!” Storm called to Oak before racing to the willow and climbing back up.

Oak followed. “Where are we going?”

“To watch.”

“Watch what?”

“We’re going to watch dad tell Pinestar off!” Storm scooted along the branch. He stopped at the edge and laid against it so Oak could watch. Only four ThunderClan warriors remained on Sunningrocks. Pinestar was still lying on the smooth, flat rock. A blonde man sat beside him, relaxing in the sun.

“That must be Sunfall, the deputy,” Oak whispered. “Vole said he was small and blonde.”

Two lithe warriors stood on either side of the leader and deputy; a dark haired man with a blue cloak and a brown haired man. Their eyes were wide as they stared around.

Shellheart was swimming toward Sunningrocks. Water splashed as Rippleclaw, Brightsky and Ottersplash followed. On Sunningrocks, the blue-cloaked man stepped forward, drawing an axe from his belt.

Pinestar stood, quickly followed by Sunfall. Shellheart emerged, dripping, from the water. He quickly scaled the smooth cliff face.

Storm felt Oak tense where he was leaning over his back. “Will they fight?” Oak breathed.

“Let’s wait and see.” Storm was trembling with excitement as the rest of the patrol followed his father.

“You’re on RiverClan territory.” Shellheart’s booming voice carried across the river.

Sunfall stepped forward. “Make us leave, then.”

Shellheart narrowed his eyes. “This battle isn’t worth fighting,” he said. “We’ve been watching you. We want you to know this is our land, and we’ll defend it.”

The dark haired man laughed. “But not today, I guess?”

Rippleclaw darted forward. “If it comes to battle, it’ll be the one to gut you, Stormtail,” he snapped.

“Rippleclaw!” Shellheart called the warrior back, meeting Pinestar’s gaze. “You can have Sunningrocks. For now. Help yourself. RiverClan doesn’t need the land game. But we’ll take it back when we want it back.”

“You can take him, dad,” Storm murmured. He didn’t understand why they didn’t just attack. The patrols were evenly numbered, and he knew the RiverClan warriors could easily take down those cowards.

Shellheart jumped down to the riverbank and waited while Rippleclaw, Ottersplash and Brightsky dived past him into the water. He glanced back up the rock face once more before following his Clanmates.

“Watch out!” Oak yelped. “The magpie’s coming back!”

Storm looked up and saw a flash of black and white feathers outlined against the gray sky. “Hold on to me!” he ordered.

Oak grabbed his legs as Storm reached out. He lashed at the magpie as it swooped low. Held firm by Oak, Storm batted at the bird until it squawked and took off.

Oak let go. “Nice!”

“Thanks for the help.” Storm looked at the feathers fluttering into the water. “That magpie will think twice before coming back.” He smiled triumphantly. “We’re going to be the best warriors RiverClan has ever seen.”

Chapter Text

Storm stretched in his bed, feeling his bones pop. Early morning sunshine filtered through the roof, making the reed walls glow. Three years had passed since ThunderClan had first taken Sunningrocks, and the two Clans had narrowly avoided war by coming to an agreement; ThunderClan would get to use Sunningrocks during the winter for the hunting land while RiverClan would get it the rest of the time. That solution hadn’t entirely solved the problem, however.

“Wake up!” Storm whispered in Oak’s ear.

Rainflower stirred. “Go back to sleep, dear,” she murmured. “It’s too early to be up.”

Storm sat up and poked Oak.

“What is it?” Oak grumbled.

“Let’s go explore.”

“Stay in camp,” Rainflower murmured sleepily.

“Of course,” Storm promised. He poked Oak again.

Oak rolled over. “Don’t you ever sleep?”

“We’ve been sleeping all night. The dawn patrol already left.”

In Echomist’s corner, Beetle sat up. “Is it time for breakfast?”

Vole yawned. “I’m hungry.”

Petal rolled over. “The hunting patrol will bring us something to eat.”

Storm climbed out of the bed and stretched. “We’re going to catch our own food.”

Oak sat up. “We are?”

Rainflower lifted her head. “Stay out of trouble, you two.”

The clearing was already warm and bright, though the sun was barely higher than the willow. Hailstar and Shellheart sat beside the warrior huts, their heads low in conversation. The elders were sitting outside their hut. Timberfur and Ottersplash were poking through the reeds at the edge of the river.

Brambleberry was laying out leaves in the sun, her hands tinged with green.

“What are those?” Storm asked, crossing the clearing. The leaves gave off a sour smell.

“Coltsfoot,” Brambleberry told him. “It helps with coughs.”

“How?”

“You chew it up and drink the juice,” Brambleberry said.

Oak joined them. “Where’d they come from?”

“They grow beside the gorge,” Brambleberry said.

“We can get you more,” Storm said.

Brambleberry giggled. “You still have a few months before you become an apprentice, Storm.”

“I’m sure Hailstar will let us go,” Storm pleaded.

Brambleberry glanced at the RiverClan leader. “Then go ask him.”

Storm scowled. “Maybe later.” He’d tried asking Hailstar if he could leave camp before; several times. The answer had always been the same.

No.

Storm stared enviously at the apprentice’s hut. Soft and White were just a few weeks away from receiving their warriors name. Storm wished he had been born at the same time as them.

“Are we going hunting or not?” Oak asked.

“We are.”

“Where?” Oak scanned the camp. “I bet there’ll be frogs in the sedge.”

Storm straightened his spine. “I want to catch more than frogs!”

“We could hunt minnows,” Oak suggested.

Storm rolled his eyes. “It’s like you don’t want to leave camp.

“I do! But we’re not allowed."

“Oh, come on.” Storm punched his brother’s shoulder. “Let’s go hunt like real warriors.

“What if we get caught?” Oak lowered his voice. “What if Hailstar doesn’t let us become apprentices?”

“RiverClan needs more warriors,” Storm said. “I bet he’ll be glad we’re so eager to hunt and fight. When I’m leader, I’ll let kids go out of camp whenever they want.”

“Hey!” Oak punched him back. “I want to be leader!”

“You could never be leader,” Storm teased. “You wanted to hunt minnows. You can be deputy when I’m leader.”

“Fine.”

“Come on! Let’s go hunt!”

Before Oak could answer, laughter filled the clearing. Vole and Beetle bundled out of the nursery.

“Wait for me!” Petal scrambled after them.

Beetle jumped into the stalks beside Ottersplash. “Have you seen any fish?”

“Don’t scare them off!” Ottersplash grumbled, not taking her eyes away from the patch of water.

Storm nudged Oak. “Come on, before they see us.”

“Which way?” Oak asked. “We can’t just walk out the front entrance.”

“The wasteplace. We can squeeze through the sedges and into the marsh.”

Storm headed toward the wasteplace. He ducked through the frond entrance, Oak behind him. Through the gap lay a sandy clearing dotted with puddles of water. Oak pushed through the sedge. “Through here?”

Storm pushed past, through the stems. They were sharp and stiff, but he was able to break through into the sunshine. A wide marshy plain stretched ahead of him, grassy and lush, filled with reeds, sedge and white flowers.

“It’s huge!” Oak slid out behind Storm, staring around the wetland. It stretched far along the riverbank and sloped up toward a smooth meadow where livestock grazed.

“The river is this way.” Oak pointed.

Storm cocked his head. ‘Don’t you want to explore the marsh?”

“You said we’d go hunting,” Oak reminded him. “There’s nothing to hunt in the marsh.”

“Alright, fine.” Storm’s feet sank into the waterlogged moss. He bounced over it, following Oak along the sedge wall.

“Wait!” Oak halted.

Storm nearly ran into him. “What?”

“We’re near the camp entrance,” Oak whispered.

Storm recognized the well walked grass track that led out from the sedges and weaved between the thick bushes and grass that swathed the riverbank.

“Follow me.” Storm moved ahead, pushing his way onto the path. He kept close to the bushes, trudging through the puddles of water. Then he plunged into the long grass on the other side of the path. The ground fell away and he nearly tumbled down the bank.

He landed on a muddy flat at the river’s edge. Water lapped at his legs as he scrambled up. With a yelp, Oak tumbled after him.

Oak was ruffled as he jumped out. “Nice route,” he muttered.

“I don’t know the territory,” Storm growled. “Hailstar won’t let us explore, remember?” He gazed downriver, watching the water flow away in a lazy brown flood.

“Look! There’s the stepping stones!” Storm pointed to the smooth boulders that broke the surface farther downstream. “We can get to Sunningrocks.”

Oak blinked. “Why?”

“We can take it back from ThunderClan!” Storm answered hotly. He glanced at the far bank. A stretch of sandy shore lay in the shade of Sunningrocks.

“But it’s summer,” Oak argued. “We already own Sunningrocks in the summer.”

Storm glared at his brother. “What if ThunderClan is trying to invade? We need to check it!”

He stiffened, noticing a figure on the water’s edge, tugging at weeds that clung to the rocks and streams in the current.

“Look!” he whispered to Oak.

“It must be a ThunderClan warrior!” Oak gasped.

“A warrior? No way!” Storm huffed. “Look at him. He must be older than Sunningrocks.” The man was unkept, his black hair graying and tangled. His face was covered in a frazzled gray beard.

“What’s he doing?” Oak whispered.

The man was shifting through the weeds along the shore, tugging out leaves.

Storm gasped. “He’s stealing our herbs!”

“They’re just herbs,” Oak said. “It’s not a big deal.”

“Yes, it is!” Storm growled. “We need those herbs.”

“Let’s go tell dad,” Oak said.

Storm stared at his brother. “Are you stupid?”

“He’s on our land.”

“If we tell dad, he’ll know we snuck out.”

“Then what should be do?” Oak asked.

Storm walked toward the shore. “We’ll deal with it ourselves.”

Oak followed. “We can’t take on a full grown warrior.”

“Why not? There’s two of us. And he looks like he’s about to turn to dust!”

“But-”

“Hush!” Storm dropped low, stalking along the riverbank. “We don’t want him to hear us.”

The ragged man was still shifting through the plants.

Storm paused. The stepping stones began a length away from the bank. A narrow stretch of water stood between him and the first rock. The river wasn’t fast, but it looked deep and cold around the base of the stone. Storm tensed, then leaped, clearing the channel and landing on the first stone. It was smooth beneath his feet, worn down by countless centuries of lapping water.

Oak joined him, crashing into him and nearly throwing him off the stone. There was hardly enough room for both of them. “This is a bad idea,” Oak whispered.

Storm put a finger over his mouth, gesturing for Oak to be silent.

The river gurgled between the stepping stones, making tiny whirlpools at the edge of the rock. Storm took a deep breath and jumped to the next stone. He landed hard. The river streamed around the rock so smoothly it seemed for a moment as though the rock were moving. Storm steadied himself, gaze fixed ahead. He jumped to the next rock, then the next. He felt Oak land beside him, holding onto his arm as not to fall. One more stone and they’d make it to the shore.

“He’s gonna see us!” Oak whispered.

“Not if we’re quiet,” Storm said. “We can hide in the reeds.”

He jumped onto the bank and dived into the reeds. Wet sand spattered around him as Oak landed clumsily behind him. Storm froze and glanced at the man.

He was still tugging at the weeds, gaze fixed on the leaves. Suddenly, he looked up, his cold blue eyes boring into Storm.

“Did you think I wouldn’t notice you?” he growled.

“You’re on RiverClan territory!” Storm growled. “Get off our land!”

Oak nodded, standing up tall. “You can’t steal our herbs!”

The man cocked his head. “Your herbs? A Clan cannot stake claim to life-saving plants. That’s idiotic.” He stepped toward them menacingly.

“Run!” Storm turned and scrambled through the reeds. He skidded to a halt on the first stone, then jumped to the next.

Oak landed behind him. “Help!” he wailed as his foot slipped off the stone. Storm grabbed his arm before Oak could slide into the swirling river.

“Thanks!” Oak regained his balance and jumped to the next stone. Storm followed.

“You can’t get away from me so easily!” the old man growled from behind them. Just as Storm was jumping again, a hand snagged the back of his shirt, throwing him backwards. But the man couldn’t keep a grip on him and Storm plunged into the river.

Pain shot through his face as he smashed it against the rock. Cold water engulfed him and the world turned back. Churning, Storm flailed to the surface. Gravel grazed his stomach, then his spine, as the river threw him downstream.

Water stung his eyes. Shadowy shapes raced past him. He struggled against the current, but another rock slammed against his side, knocking his breath from his lungs. His chest heaved as he fought not to suck in the water. Then he saw shapes moving steadily toward him. A woman. Her hair was colored red, her eyes shining.

Had StarClan come to claim him? Terror clawed at his stomach as he fought harder, hoping to find air.

The woman swam closer.

“Be calm, child.” The woman’s voice was a whisper in his ear. “It’s not your time to die. You have a great destiny ahead of you.” Her brown eyes shone through the green water, then she disappeared.

A hand grabbed Storm’s arm. With a jerk, he was above the rushing water, dangling from Mudfur’s hand. The man turned against the current and swam for shore. Storm gulped in the air, coughing and trembling, suddenly aware of an agonizing pain in his cheek.

Mudfur scrambled out of the river.

“Is he okay?” Oak called.

Storm could hear his brother, but couldn’t see him. His entire face felt swollen and hot. He felt liquid bubbling at his lips and the sharp tang of blood.

Mudfur headed along the path toward camp, Storm in his arms.

“What’s wrong with him?”

There was fear in Oak’s voice. Each time Mudfur took a step, it jolted Storm, making pain shoot through his face. Storm tried to open his eyes. He could see grass, sedge and willow stream past in a blur. He could hear his own breathing and feel the terrible cold that gripped his bones.

“Where did you find him?” Rainflower’s shrill voice sounded. “Where’s Oak? Oak!”

“I’m here.”

“What happened?”

“Storm fell in the river.”

Brambleberry’s voice was calm. “Take him to my hut, Mudfur.”

Past the haze of figures. Past the deep olive sedge and into the green calm of Brambleberry’s hut. It was a wide space, almost a clearing, thickly walled by woven sedge and reeds.

Rainflower moved around him, pushing past Brambleberry. “My poor baby!”

“Let me see.” Brambleberry pushed past her.

Storm tried to focus on her, but black dots danced in his vision.

“His face! His handsome face!” Rainflower wailed, sending a wave of terror over him.

“Come on, Rainflower.” Mudfur was bundling his mother away. “You need to check on Oak. He’s pretty shaken up.”

Brambleberry leaned closer to Storm. “Don’t worry, I’ll take care of you.”

Storm lay numb and trembling as Brambleberry left to retrieve something that had a strong, sour smell.

“I’m going to drip juice into the corner of your mouth,” she said. “It’ll taste bad and it might hurt to swallow, but you need to take it.” Her voice was firm. “It’ll make you feel better.”

Storm tried to speak, but his mouth felt thick and strange.

“This has willow sap, thyme and poppy in it,” Brambleberry went on, her voice low.

Storm felt wetness in the side of his mouth, then a stream of liquid. He forced himself to swallow it, despite the agony.

“Good.” Brambleberry moved away. “Get some sleep. When you wake up, you’ll feel better.” As she talked, he felt warm and drowsy. Her words drifted into a low murmur as the green clearing faded into darkness.

Chapter Text

Storm blinked at his mother. “You’re leaving already?”

“I have to,” Rainflower said, glancing at the sky.

She wouldn’t look at him.

“The Clan needs fed."

Oak sat beside Storm. “I’ll stay.”

Storm tried to catch Rainflower’s eye. “I caught a butterfly yesterday.”

He’d been confined to the healer’s hut for over a month. It had been pure luck that the butterfly had wandered into Brambleberry’s hut.

Oak moved closer. “You can tell me about it.”

“It was huge.” Storm looked at his mother, but she was already at the entrance.

“I promised Rippleclaw I’d join his patrol,” she said.

“Rainflower!” Brambleberry emerged from a small space in the sedge wall where she stored her herbs. Fragments of leaf flaked her hair.

Rainflower halted. “What is it?”

“Storm can go back to the nursery,” Brambleberry said.

“Really?” Oak gasped excitedly. “That’s great! Let’s go!”

Rainflower’s eyes darkened. She glanced at Storm. ‘But he’s not fully healed.”

“He’s as healed as he’s going to get,” Brambleberry said sharply. “He can play like any other kid. What more do you want?”

Rainflower turned away. “Fine.”

Storm cocked his head. “Is she okay?”

“She’s just tired from hunting so much,” Oak said.

Brambleberry was frowning. “Yeah.”

Oak grabbed Storm’s arm. “Come on!” He jumped up. “You’ve been lying around too long. We need to get you up again. We’ll be apprentices in two more months.”

“I’m afraid not.” Brambleberry crossed the hut toward them.

Storm’s heart lurched. “What do you meant?”

Her blue gaze was clear. “You’ll need to wait a bit longer, Storm. You broke your jaw, afterall.”

“But it’s healed,” Storm said. He opened and closed his mouth to show her. It still felt stiff and lopsided, and ached if he rested on it at night, but the bones had mended and the pain had gone.

“You can hardly eat,” brambleberry said. “You need to get your strength back before you can start training.”

“It’s okay,” Oak said. “I’ll ask Hailstar if I can wait a bit longer, too.”

Storm stood up on shaky legs. He felt hollow and lean.

“That’s kind of you, Oak,” Brambleberry said. “Someone needs to look after Storm, after all.”

“I don’t need anyone to look after me,” Storm growled. “I’ll get strong again in no time.”

Oak laughed, heading for the hut entrance. “Come on! Everyone will be happy to see you.”

Storm followed him, suddenly excited. “Thanks, Brambleberry,” he called over his shoulder.

“Come back tomorrow so I can check on you,” Brambleberry promised. “Eat as much as you can.”

Storm burst into the clearing, dazzled by the sunshine. The river chattered beyond the reed bed, wind swishing at the reeds. Beetle, Vole and Petal, just recently made apprentices, were tugging old bedding out of the elder’s hut. Mudfur was sitting in the shade with Cedarpelt. Shellheart was sharing a meal with Hailstar.

“Aren’t you finished yet?” Birdsong called to the apprentices.

“It won’t be long now,” Petal called back.

Storm took a deep breath, smelling freshly cooked fish. “Are you hungry?” he asked Oak.

“I ate this morning, but there’s some left.” He pointed toward the pile of fat trout lying beside the reed bed. “Let me get you one.” Oak hurried away.

“Storm!” Mudfur called. The warrior walked across the clearing. “It’s good to see you.”

Vole dropped the bedding in his hands and whirled around. “Storm!” He charged across the clearing. Beetle and Petal followed. Vole gasped. “Uh...h-h-how are you?”

Petal stopped beside her brother. “Rainflower wouldn’t let us see you.” Her eyes glittered, her voice sickly sweet.

Storm frowned. He begged Rainflower for visitors. Why hadn’t she let anyone see him?

Beetle was staring at him. “You look funny.”

“Beetle!” Echomist hurried across the clearing. “He looks just fine. It’s so good to see you, Storm. The nursery was quiet without you.” She glanced at Vole. “Well, almost.”

Vole swallowed. “We made a training corner in the nursery.” He looked away. “You’ll like it. We tied bulrushes in the ceiling.”

“He can see it later,” Echomist said. “Right now, he should eat.”

Storm frowned. “Oak’s getting something for me.”

“Storm!” Birdsong called from the top of the bank.

“Is that Storm?” Tanglewhisker joined his wife.

Storm looked past them to see his father standing and hurrying down the slope. “Storm!” He gathered his son in a hug.

Storm wriggled out of his grasp. “Why are you so excited? You just saw me yesterday!”

“It’s just good to see you up and about! You have so much to catch up on. I’ve been giving Oak tips for when he starts his apprenticeship. I’m sure you won’t take long to learn as well.”

Storm smiled. He glanced around the clearing, wondering where Oak had went.

He stiffened.

Rippleclaw was staring at him from beneath the willow. He looked away when Storm caught his gaze. Softwing and Whitefang were sitting together by the fire pit, murmuring to each other and glancing at him. Ottersplash, coming back from hunting, took sight of him and gasped.

Everyone was looking at him like he’d grown a second head.

Confused, Storm turned back to the friendly faces around him. Everyone kept fussing about how good it was to see them, but they wouldn’t look directly at him. Their eyes were on his shoulder, or over his head, or on the ground.

A cold chill rain through him.

He pushed past Echomist and Mudfur, heading for the reed bed.

“Storm?” Oak was carrying a plate toward him.

Storm stopped at the shore by a patch of clear water.

“Storm!”

The boy in the reflection was hardly recognizable. His jaw was twisted in the corner, sunken beneath his top lip. His nose was crooked and his tongue poked out of one side.

“Oh, StarClan…”

Oak came up beside him. “You’re lucky to be alive,” he said. “Brambleberry thought you’d die of infection. She did everything she could to keep you alive. And dad sat with you every night.”

“What about mom?” She’d hardly visited him. Was it because he was so horrible to look at?

“She was upset,” Oak said.

Storm felt a wave of guilt. “I’m sorry,” he whispered.

“For what?”

“For hurting mom.”

“It wasn’t your fault.” Oak stood up. “Come on. Let’s get you something to eat.”

Storm took the plate of food from his brother. It held a large cut of fish and a few berries.

“Eat,” oak ordered.

Storm took a berry and popped it into his mouth. He could hardly taste it. His tongue kept sliding out of the side of his mouth, and it was awkward to chew. He tried to keep it from dribbling out the side of his mouth.

“I can’t do it,” he whispered.

“Yes, you can,” Oak said.

Storm’s stomach rumbled. He was hungry. He glanced around as he ate another berry, trying to see if anyone was watching. The reed bed was private, concealing them for the most part. No one could see him. Relieved, Storm gulped down his food. Pain raked his jaw, but he didn’t stop chewing. Finally finished, and feeling full, he sat up. Bits of chewed fish streaked the front of his shirt where it had dripped out of his mouth. Storm quickly wiped it off, feeling hot with embarrassment.

Oak smiled once he’d finished. “Come on. I’ll show you the training corner.”

Storm followed his brother into the nursery. At the far end of the hut, the floor was covered in soft cloth. “Wow!”

Oak stepped onto the carpeted floor. “It’s soft, so if we fall it won’t hurt as much.”

“What are those?” Storm looked at the fat brown bulrush heads sticking out of the nursery ceiling.

“Watch!” Oak braced himself, then jumped. He reached up to grasp the thick brown rush, then fell back, landing and throwing it to the ground.

“That looks fun!” Storm felt a surge of excitement. “Can I try?”

“Of course,” Oak said. “Vole helped me find the bulrushes. It’s to practice jumping and hunting. By the time we start training, we’ll be experts.”

Storm braced himself and looked up. A fat bulrush was dangling teasingly over his head. He narrowed his eyes and jumped. Stretching, he reached for the fuzzy head. His hands clapped together in the air and he fell back on the carpet.

“You nearly had it,” Oak said encouragingly.

Storm frowned. “That’s not good enough.”

Oak smiled sympathetically. “We can try again later. We should probably find more bulrushes.”

The hut trembled. “You’re not going to fill that corner with more mess, are you?” Rainflower pushed into the hut and sat in her bed. “Can’t you play outside?”

“Alright.” Oak pushed Storm toward the entrance. “Come on. We can throw a ball.”

Storm followed his brother out of the hut, but stumbled over a pile of loosely woven cloth and reeds. It looked like a hastily made bed. “What’s this?”

Rainflower looked up at him. “It’s your bed.”

“My bed?” Wouldn’t he be sleeping with her and Oak?

“You need your own space,” Rainflower said. “Your jaw must be sore. I don’t want you fidgeting and waking up Oak.”

Storm blinked. “It doesn’t hurt,” he said. “I won’t fidget, I promise.”

“You need your own space,” Rainflower repeated.

Oak peeked back into the hut. “Are you coming, Storm?”

Storm stared at his mother. Was she angry at him for worrying her?

Shellheart pushed in behind Storm. “How are you doing?”

“I have my own bed,” Storm mumbled.

Shellheart narrowed his eyes. “Oak, do you have your own bed?”

Oak looked at the floor.

“Rainflower.” Shellheart’s voice was forcefully even. “Can I speak with you outside?”

Rainflower narrowed her eyes and followed him outside.

Oak came to join Storm by the new bed. Outside, they could hear their parents.

“His own bed?”

“He’s getting too big to sleep with me and Oak,” Rainflower answered. “Besides, he’ll be used to having his own bed after spending so long with Brambleberry.”

Shellheart sighed. “At least you’re still calling him Storm.”

“I can’t believe you won’t let me change his name.”

“You can’t call him Crooked. That’s cruel!”

Storm stiffened.

“It suits him.”

“I won’t let you do this, Rainflower,” Shellheart growled. “He’s my son, too, and I get a say here.”

“I think it would be a great name,” Rainflower went on. “It’ll be a constant reminder not to go off and do something stupid again. If he hadn’t left camp, he wouldn’t be ugly now.”

Storm began to tremble. Rainflower blamed him!

“How could you do this?” Shellheart snapped. “You’re his mother!”

“It’s not my fault he fell in the river. It’s not my problem to deal with.”

Storm’s chest tightened. He felt tears rise into his eyes, a sob threatening to break out of his throat.

“She’s upset,” Oak whispered. “She doesn’t know what she’s saying.”

“You’re a heartless witch, Rainflower,” Shellheart growled. “I can’t call you my wife if you’re going to treat our son like this.”

“He’s not my son anymore,” Rainflower said. “I could never love something so ugly. You can have him.”

Storm couldn’t listen anymore. He jumped up and rushed out of the hut. “Don’t fight! I don’t mind sleeping alone! I don’t mind a new name!” he wailed. But Rainflower was already crossing the clearing. Storm stared at his father. “Don’t break up because of me.”

“It’s not because of you.” Shellheart put his hands on Storm’s shoulder. “It’s because of her.” He stared after Rainflower, angry fire in his eyes. “I won’t let her do this to you, Storm. You were born in a storm, and that’s what defies you. Not your injury.”

Chapter Text

“Can I sleep with Storm tonight?” Oak asked Rainflower. His eyes glistening in the moonlight. “It’s my last night in the nursery.”

“No.” Rainflower laid down, ready for bed. “He needs to sleep alone so he can get a good night’s sleep.”

Storm flinched. It had been two years since his injury and the pain in his heart hadn’t gone away. Oak had tried to delay his apprentice ceremony as long as possible, waiting for Storm to get better, but Hailstar had decided they’d waited long enough.

Storm wished he’d never left camp. Then Rainflower would still love him. Instead, she acted like his ugliness was contagious. He’d tried to please her, to make up for his accident. He’d cooked her food until she’d told him to stop. He’d offered to clean out her bed, along with his own.

Storm’s stomach rumbled. He could hardly eat without the pain stopping him from chewing. If he couldn’t eat, how would he become an apprentice?

“Storm!”

He heard Vole calling for him. Storm blinked his eyes open. The sun shone through the walls. Rainflower’s bed was empty. Had he missed Oak’s ceremony?

“The dawn patrol is back.”

Storm struggled groggily out of his hut, his legs trembling as he stumbled out of the nursery.

Shellheart looked up from the firepit. He slapped a huge cut of fish onto a plate and brought it to Storm. “You should have breakfast.”

Storm took the plate and watched as Shellheart walked away toward Hailstar’s hut. He sucked back the drool dripping down his face. “Did Oak have his ceremony yet?” he asked Vole, who was waiting by the nursery.

“Not yet.” Bole glanced at Hailstar’s hut. “Rainflower has been talking to him all morning.”

Hope flared through Storm’s stomach. Perhaps she was asking him to make Storm an apprentice as well.

Vole looked at the trout meat in Storm’s hands. “Are you going to eat that?”

Storm hesitated. He was hungry, but he didn’t want to eat in front of anyone. “You can have it.” he handed it to Vole.

“Thanks.” Vole sat down to eat.

“Let all those old enough to swim gather in the clearing!” Hailstar was walking out of his hut.

Cedarpelt emerged from his hut. Fallowtail hopped down from the ancient willow, along with Softwing.

Tanglewhisker poked his head out of his hut. “A ceremony? In the morning?” he grumbled as he trotted down the slope. Birdsong and Troutclaw followed.

Piketooth hauled himself out of the reedbed with a bundle of stems. River water streamed over his dark clothes. Shimmerpelt followed him with another bundle. She dropped the reeds and flipped her black hair over her shoulder.

Brambleberry emerged from the healer’s hut and sat beside Lakeshine.

Whitefang hurried out of the waste place. “Did I miss anything?”

Timberfur sat down. “Not yet.”

Storm wondered where to sit. Shellheart was beside Hailstar. Rainflower stood with Oak, whose eyes sparkled. Storm wanted to race across the clearing and wish him luck, but he knew Rainflower would glare at him.

“Sit with me,” Brambleberry called.

As he settled beneath the willow, Echomist joined them. “You must be proud of your brother.”

Storm smiled. Oak would be the strongest apprentice in the Clan. “He’ll be a great warrior.”

Hailstar nodded. “Oak, come here.”

As Oak walked forward, Hailstar called to his deputy. “Shellheart!”

Storm blinked in surprise. Shellheart would be Oak’s mentor? Parents almost never mentored their own children. He stared at Rainflower.

She had planned this.

Hailstar’s gaze swept the Clan. “Shellheart and Oak share courage, strength and loyalty.” He nodded to his deputy. “Strengthen those talents in your apprentice, Shellheart, and make Oak a warrior who will lead RiverClan to greatness.”

“Oak!” Rainflower was the first to raise her voice.

“Oak!” Vole and Petal joined in. Timberfur and Brightsky stood up as they called Oak’s name.

“Oak! Oak!” Storm shouted louder than anyone. He hoped StarClan would make him a great warrior.

As the cheering died down, Oak approached him.

“Thanks,” Oak said. “I hope we get to train together soon, big brother.”

Storm smiled, any jealousy melting. He loved Oak, and wanted his brother to be happy. He just wished Rainflower loved him.

Oak’s eyes shone as he turned back to Hailstar. “I’ll be the best warrior I can be.”

Rainflower crossed the clearing. “Well done, dear,” she said to oak.

Shellheart pushed past her to embrace his son. “I’ll expect you to train harder than any other apprentice,” he warned. “Don’t think I’ll go easy on you just because you’re my son.”

“I won't!” Oak puffed out his chest.

Shellheart glanced at Storm. “And I’ll show you a few moves as well,” he promised. Excitement fizzed through Storm.

“Don’t be silly.” Rainflower crossed her arms. “He’s too small.”

Storm stared at her. Was he small? He was eating as much as he could, and he had nearly outgrown his bed.

Petal and Vole crowded around Oak. “Well done, Oak!”

Storm backed away.

“Yeah.” Beetle pushed in front of his older siblings. “Well done. Now I know why I didn’t get Shellheart as my mentor.”

Petal rolled her eyes. “What makes you think you deserve Shellheart? Dad gave us mentors who he thought would be best.”

Beetle huffed. “Then why’d I get Ottersplash?”

“Hush!” Vole hissed.

Ottersplash had crossed the clearing, standing behind her apprentice. “Maybe because you needed to learn some respect,” she growled.

Beetle spun around. “Sorry!”

Ottersplash’s gaze was steady. “You can spend the afternoon cleaning out the elder’s hut.”

Beetle frowned. “Fine.” he walked away, slouching.

Petal hurried after him. “I’ll help!’

“You can help, too,” Shellheart said to Oak.

“My first assignment!” He charged away.

“So,” Rainflower said sharply. “Aren’t you going to thank me?”

Shellheart narrowed his eyes. “What for?”

“For making sure you got to mentor Oak.”

Shellheart’s eyes widened. “You did that?”

“Hailstar agreed it made sense for the strongest warrior to train the strongest apprentice,” Rainflower said with a shrug.

Shellheart leaned closer to her, voice low. “You witch! You knew I wanted to have Storm as my apprentice. How could you do this to him?”

Rainflower’s eyes were narrowed dangerously. “As if he’ll ever become an apprentice.”

Shellheart opened his mouth to argue, then glanced at Storm, as though seeming him there for the first time. “Um...why don’t you go see if Oak needs help?” he said.

Storm glanced between them, then walked away. He wished he’d never left camp. Then, his parents wouldn’t hate each other.

“Oak?” Storm stuck his head through the neatly woven entrance of the elder’s hut.

Petal looked up from Tanglewhisker’s bed. “He went to find feathers.”

“I’ll help him,” Storm offered.

“He’s outside the camp,” Petal said.

“Oh. I can help you, then.”

A bundle of soiled linen hit him in the face.

“You’ll just get in the way.” Beetle was tearing up Troutclaw’s bed.

“Why don’t you go play?” Petal said kindly. “We can handle this.”

Tanglewhisker was patting down his bed. “Let him help. He needs to learn, anyway.”

“He can learn later.” Beetle tossed aside another ball of clothe. “We don’t need some little kid getting in our way.”

Storm narrowed his eyes. “We’re the same age!” he snapped.

“And you're five years smaller,” Beetle retorted.

Storm ducked out of the hut and stomped down the slope. Maybe Piketooth and Shimmerpelt needed help.

“Can I help?” he called from the edge of the reed bed. The water lapped at his feet, cool and refreshing.

Piketooth backed out of the thick reeds. “Careful!” he warned.

“Can you teach me how to swim?” Storm asked.

Piketooth shook his head. “You’re too small for that.”

“Minnows are small!” Storm wanted to jump into the water and just teach himself.

Shimmerpelt waded out of the river, carrying an armful of reeds. “I know you’re bored,” she said sympathetically. “There aren’t any other kids to play with. Maybe you could practice in the nursery?”

Storm frowned. Didn’t anyone want him around?

Brambleberry was watching him from outside the healer’s hut. “You can help me sort herbs.”

“I want to be a warrior, not a healer!” Storm snapped. He turned and stomped across the clearing. Oak was walking into camp with a wad of soft feathers.

Shellheart called to him. “Oak, once you’re done with that, I’ll take you on a tour of the territory.”

Storm raised his head. “Can I come?” he called hopefully. He was older than Oak. Even if he wasn’t an apprentice, he was old enough to leave camp now.

Shellheart sighed. “One day.” He watched Oak race up the slope, hand the feathers to Beetle, then dash back. “Ready?”

Oak nodded. Storm sat at the edge of the clearing and watched them disappear through the entrance.

Rainflower was sitting in the shade, eating with Lakeshine. She lifted her head to stare at Storm. “I’m moving back to the warrior’s huts tonight. Lakeshine and I will share a hut.”

Storm’s heart fell. Would he be all alone in the nursery? His Clanmates would be chatting and sleeping together while he was on his own- an outcast. Maybe Rainflower would stay if he could impress her. Maybe he could make her love him again. He stood up and raced for the willow, climbing up the trunk. He skittered along one of the jutting branches.

“Look, mom!” He reached the end and stood up, putting his arms out for balance. “Look at me!”

Rainflower blinked. “Get down before you fall. And stop showing off.”

Chapter Text

Somewhere in the woods, a warbler shrieked. Storm sat up in his bed. The Clan was asleep. Through the walls of the nursery, he could hear their snores. Storm felt wide awake. His heart ached too fiercely for him to sleep. He paced around the empty hut.

He thought about the red haired StarClan warrior who’d once visited him in the river, two years ago. He scanned the shadowy edges of the hut, willing her to appear. He wished StarClan was here to comfort him. Brambleberry was always saying they were looking after him. If that was so, why couldn’t they be here for him to see?

If StarClan wouldn’t come to him, then he could go to them. He could visit the Moonstone. Brambleberry often told him about the journey she took twice a month to share dreams with their warrior ancestors. The path led upstream and through WindClan territory. Afterwards, Highstones would be easy to find. It was bigger than Sunningrocks and sharper than a blade.

He had to know why StarClan hadn’t let him die in the river. Why couldn’t they have just let him drown? Then, his Clan would have mourned him, and his mother would have loved him. He wouldn’t have lived long enough to disappoint her.

He peered out of the nursery. The clearing was deserted, covered in silver moonlight. Storm slid out of the hut and walked silently across the clearing.

The sedge swished as he headed out of camp. Gentle rain fell as Storm followed the grassy path. The river glittered beside him. He’d have to cross the river and head upstream toward the moor.

Which meant he’d have to cross the stepping stones.

He felt sick. He hadn’t been back to the stepping stones since his accident.

Pushing through the bushes, he slide down the bank onto the muddy shore. The river was shallow and lazy, dappled with rivets from the raindrops. It looked harmless, lapping at the stones, but Storm knew it was deceitful.

Ahead, the stepping stones were wet with rain. The drops pattered their surfaces softly. Storm took a deep breath and jumped onto the first stone. The river flowed below him as he jumped to the next. He was bigger than last time. He felt more sure footed on the stones, and they didn’t seem so far apart. He focused on the far shore and crossed the rest of the stones without hesitating, landing on the other side with a sigh of relief.

Sunningrocks rose into the dark, drizzly sky. Clouds hid the moon, bathing the land in an unnatural darkness.

Storm headed upstream, following the shore and sticking close to the bushes. The path began to climb a slope steadily. He was deep in ThunderClan territory. Every few lengths, he stopped at a carved marker, covered in the zigzagged symbol of ThunderClan. Beyond the gurgling river, he heard water thundering. He must be near the gorge.

The path grew steeper, following the river. The shore was a rising cliff that grew higher and higher. Storm peered over the edge. Far below, the river rushed past, swirling past jutting rocks. The thundering grew louder, echoing off the rocks. Storm rounded the corner and spotted the waterfall of the gorge. Higher than any tree, it threw droplets toward the moon, plunging straight down where the land fell away.

Storm stiffened, aware of how narrow the path grew. Sheer rock rose on one side and plummeted down on the other. He flinched away from the precipice, flattening himself to the cliff face. The gravel path was sharp beneath his feet and the wind whipped his brown hair back and forth.

As he reached the top of the falls, the roar of water faded. The path flattened and the river became smooth once more, brimming the shore. Storm gazed across the swath of land that stretched out beside him. It rose toward the moors and beyond, so he could see the distant cliffs. Were those Highstones?

Suddenly, the zigzagged markers of ThunderClan were replaced with smooth, swirling shapes. He must be on WindClan territory now. His heart quickened as he turned away from the river and headed upslope. The soft bushes gave way to heather and gorse. Storm weaved among their stems, staying low.

At the top of the slope was a large pile of rocks in the heather. Storm climbed onto the lowest rock and looked at the stones above him. If he could get higher, he’d be able to see his surroundings better. He glanced up at the sky, wishing the clouds would clear. Rain spattered his face. He reached for the next rock, curling his fingers in a crack. Finding one, he hauled himself up and scrabbled onto the next boulder. He was above the heather now. It stretched out ahead of him, and in the distant darkness he could just make out the jagged shape of Highstones.

Wind tugged at his damp hair as he heard a low voice in the distance. It was vaguely familiar.

Storm climbed to the top of the outcrop.

“Did you hear something?”

A deep voice sounded from below. Clinging to the wet stone, Storm crept forward and peered over the edge. Two figures sat in the heather below. Storm gasped.

He recognized Fallowtail in the half light. She was with a dark haired man. Storm shot backward.

“Is someone here?” Fallowtail sounded frightened.

“I’ll look,” the man growled.

Storm froze, hearing grit shower down as someone climbed the rocks. He moved over the edge of the boulder and landed clumsily on the ledge below. He pressed himself into the shadows.

“I don’t see anyone,” the man said.

“Let me look.”

Someone else climbed up.

“I sense RiverClan!” Fallowtail gasped.

“But there’s no one here,” the man said. “And there’s no where for someone to hide.”

“What if someone followed me?” Fallowtail said. “We need to go.”

Storm pressed himself into the crack as the two warriors slid past him. Sweaty with fear, he stared at the warriors as they hurried down the moor. Once they were gone, he crept out of the crevice and dropped down from the rock. He walked around the outcrop and kept going toward Highstones.

His mind whirled. What was Fallowtail doing here? Had Hailstar sent her on a secret mission? But who had she been with? Storm didn’t recognize the man, but he wore the cloak of a Clansfolk.

The rain eased and the clouds drifted away until the moon was a scar of silver in the black sky. Storm crested a short, steep rise that rose like an island in the heather. Highstones towered in the distance, sharply etched against the sky, but still far away. Storm gazed in dismay at the wide space between the moorland and the Moonstone. It was broken by bushes and meadows with looming dark shapes he figured must be houses.

He couldn’t travel that far! His stomach growled with hunger, and he wished he knew how to hunt. Maybe he could teach himself. It couldn’t be too hard. Rainflower and Echomist used to gossip about townsfolk hunting on the edges of their territory. If a couthy could do it, so could he. He headed down the rise.

Ahead, he spotted a wide, dusty path. It must be a Thunderpath, the road townsfolk used to take them between towns. He looked up and down, but couldn’t see anything, so he crossed cautiously.

Highstones was ahead of him, still distant beyond the rolling fields. Storm straightened up and followed the bushes. Keeping to the edge of the meadow, he pushed on, his stomach growling and jaw aching. The moon climbed over Highstones and slid down beside them. Storm paused. The stars were disappearing as the sky turned pale. He couldn’t make it to Highstones before dawn.

Ahead, a huge building rose, four-sided with strips of black wood covering the walls and a curved roof. Its entrance consisted of two smooth slabs of wood, which were slid open, leaving a small crack just big enough for him to squeeze through. It could be a safe place to rest. Feeling exhausted, Storm walked up to the small opening. He could just make out piles of dried stalks stacked high in the giant space. There was no sign of life. Storm found a comfortable, warm corner and gave in to sleep.

Chapter Text

“Storm!”

Storm opened his eyes, finding himself in a dark clearing. Trees crowded around him, their trunks wet with moss, roots snaking over the slimy soil. Mist swirled through their branches, hiding the sky.

“Storm!” the voice called again. Brown eyes gleamed in the shadows. “How could you leave your Clan?”

“I wanted to visit the Moonstone,” Storm said. The eyes flashed and a red headed woman stepped forward. “What is this place?”

The woman paced around him. “You’re dreaming.”

“Dreaming?” Storm blinked. Why would he dream of a creepy place like this?

“Why go all the way to the Moonstone to speak with StarClan?” The woman stopped in front of him. “You can ask me anything here.”

“So you are a StarClan warrior!” Storm gasped.

“My name is Mapleshade. What did you want to talk to StarClan for?”

“My destiny,” Storm burst out. “Why does everyone hate me? Will it get better?”

“Everything that happens is part of your destiny.”

“Was I supposed to have my accident?”

Mapleshade started pacing around him again. “You poor thing,” she sighed. “Your path won’t be easy to travel on, but StarClan wouldn’t give you such a hard life if you weren’t strong, brave and loyal.”

“Really?” Storm asked. “So I’m special?”

Mapleshade nodded. “Of course you are.”

“But how?”

“I can’t tell you.”

“Why?”

“You must return to your Clan.” Mapleshade’s eyes darkened. “A true warrior is loyal.”

“I was only going to the Moonstone.”

“There’s no need.”

“I guess not.” Storm glanced at the ground. He’d been looking forward to telling his Clanmates he’d visited the Moonstone. “What will I tell everyone?”

“That you’re sorry and you’ll never leave again.” Mapleshade put a finger under his chin, lifting his gaze. “They need to know you’re loyal.”

Storm straightened. “Of course I’m loyal!”

“Then you’ll go back?”

Storm nodded. “Which way is home?” He glanced around the forest.

Mapleshade laughed breathlessly. “Close your eyes. When you wake, you’ll know where to go.”

Storm closed his eyes.

Chapter Text

Storm rolled over and stretched. The air was stiff. He sneezed, rubbing his itchy nose, then opened his eyes to loose dry grass. Sun streamed into the building, dust dancing in the rays.

Sitting up, Storm yawned. Mapleshade had told him to go back, but did he really want to? Rainflower hated him and Oak was too busy to spend time with him. No one wanted him around or took him seriously.

Suddenly, his stomach growled.

He wondered if there were birds around here to hunt.

Then, he felt something press into the square of his back, along with a chachuking sound.

“What if God’s name are you doing in my barn?”

Storm whipped around to face a huge, orange haired man. He was taller than Hailstar and twice as fat. He held a long, complex looking stick in his arms, one hand on a small lever near the end.

“I was just sleeping here for the night,” Storm said, eyeing the strange stick.

The man looked him up and down, then pulled back the stick. “What’s your name, kid?”

“Storm.”

“I’m Maurice. Why are you in my barn?”

“I was going to the Moonstone.” Storm took a few steps back, trying to figure out if this man was a threat. He wasn’t from a Clan, but he was big.

“You must be from a Clan,” Maurice said. “That explains the jaw. Did you hurt yourself in a fight?”

Storm looked away. “I fell into the river.”

“Scary river,” Maurice said. “My uncle had a smashed jaw. He fell from the barn loft.”

“The barn loft?” Storm echoed.

Maurice pointed up to a high platform on the wall. “He fell from up there.”

“Where is he now?”

“Who? Uncle Dominic?”

“Is he the one who broke his jaw?”

“Yeah. He’s dead now.”

“Dead?” Storm’s eyes widened.

Maurice frowned. “Not from his jaw. He was just old. Died last winter. He looked odd, like you. He learned to eat using one side of his mouth.”

Storm looked around the barn. “Is anyone else here?”

“It’s just me and my wife now,” Maurice said. “We’ve got a few kids. My oldest is about your age, I reckon. They’re probably playing in the cornerfield.”

“Is that where the nursery is?”

“Nursery?” Maurice stared at him. “None of them have been in the nursery since they were newborns. Now, I suggest you get off my land, please. I have to go. I promised to watch the kids while Mitzi went to the market.”

Storm blinked. “Market?”

“It’s where townsfolk get their food and other stuff,” Maurice explained. “We trade with each other.”

“I could help you watch the kids,” Storm blurted. Maurice could have killed him if he wanted to, but he was being kind.

Maurice laughed. “They’re a handful,” he warned.

“I can handle it.”

“Alright. Let’s go.”

Outside, the sun was still climbing. Storm figured he could stay a little longer here and help Maurice with the kids. Then, he could head home when it got dark.

Storm followed Maurice out of the barn. Green meadows lay on either side of the path and the blue sky stretched overhead. The track was speckled with pebbles, winding downhill toward a golden field. Storm gazed at it, eyes wide. It shone like the sun and rippled like water.

“That’s my cornfield,” Maurice said. “The kids love to play in it.” They followed the track down as it wound around the cornfield. Maurice veered onto a tiny path that was nearly invisible. Pushing through the long grass, he hopped and ditch and pushed into the golden stalks.

Storm stopped, watching as Maurice disappeared into the corner.

Maurice reappeared. “Are you coming?”

Storm needed to go home, but he’d promised to help. He followed Maurice into the long grass, peering into the ditch. It was wide and deep with water trickling along the bottom. Curiously, Storm wondered what Maurice’s kids were like. It wouldn’t hurt to just say hi. Taking a deep breath, he jumped the ditch and plunged into the forest of corn, weaving through the stems. The stiff stalks reminded him of the reed bed. Their heavy heads rattled in his ears as the wind tugged at them. Storm followed Maurice through the corn, noticing where the stalks were bent from people using the path regularly. He caught up where the field sloped into a dip.

They emerged into a small clearing, enclosed by a wall of rustling yellow stalks. A woman with black hair looked up from where she sat on the edge of the hollow. Four children of varying ages were playing in the center of the clearing.

“Who’s this?” the woman asked.

“His name is Storm,” Maurice said. “He’s from a Clan.”

Mitzi narrowed her eyes. “What’s he doing here? Are there others with him?”

“He came alone. I found him sleeping in the barn.”

Mitzi frowned, looking over Storm. “He’s too young to be out here on his own.”

Maurice nodded. “He’s going to the Foodstone.”

“Moonstone!” Storm corrected.

A tiny girl with black hair stopped her playing. “Is that where the moon lives?” She stared at Storm. She looked exactly like her mother.

“Chloe, hush,” her mother chided.

Chloe must have been half Storm’s age. She was tiny compared to him. “Does the moon live there?” she pressed.

“No,” he said, amused. “It’s where we visit our ancestors.”

Mitzi stood up. “I need to go before the best meat’s been taken for the day. Watch them.” She pointed to the children.

“I’ll help,” Storm offered.

Mitzi glanced at her husband. “He’s fine,” Maurice reassured her.

Mitzi crossed her arms. “He’s hardly more than a kid himself.” She pushed past Maurice and into the corn.

Storm slide into the hollow. The four children scurried to him excitedly.

The black haired boy stared at him. He was the tallest, although not quite reaching Storm’s height. “Where’s your mom?”

“She’s back at camp,” Storm said. “What’s your name?”

“I’m Dorian.”

“And I’m Piper!” Another black haired girl pushed past her brother.

“Is there a Foodstone, too?” The last and smallest kid had black hair, just like the others. It seemed they all took after their mother. “Can we go there?”

“I don’t think so, Robin,” Maurice said to his son. “Besides, you’re too young to be traveling so far.”

Robin suddenly coughed, body shuddering.

Maurice frowned. He picked up his son in his big arms. “You’re still sick?”

Storm blinked. “You should give him coltsfoot. Brambleberry, my Clan’s healer, says it helps coughs.”

“Coltsfoot?” Maurice frowned. “I’ve never heard of it.”

“Brambleberry says you crush the leaves to get the juice out, then drink it.”

“Well, I know herbs grow near the road,” Maurice said. “What’s it look like?”

Storm thought for a moment. “It has yellow flowers, like dandelions, and the leaves have a woolly underside.”

Maurice nodded. “I’ll try to find some.” He headed into the corn, putting Robin down. “It won’t be long!” he called. “Be good!”

“We will!” Dorian replied.

Robin looked up at Storm. “Do you want to play with us?” His voice was croaky.

Storm smiled. He hadn’t played with any other kids since Oak had become an apprentice. Happily, he nodded.

There was no rush to go home. Besides, he was far more useful here than at home.

Chapter Text

The forest loomed around him, dark and eerie. He shivered as the damp air seeped through his skin and straight to his bones.

“You’ve been away from your Clan for a whole month!” Mapleshade glared at him.

Storm met her gaze. “They haven’t missed me.” Fog weaved around his ankles. “Don’t you think they were glad to get rid of someone so useless?”

“You’re not useless!”

“I know!” Every day, Storm helped look after the kids. He’d started teaching himself how to hunt the birds that tried to steal corn, much to Maurice’s delight. Mitzi liked it when he babysat, and Maurice liked it when he protected the crop fields from pests. He wasn’t useless when he was here.

Mapleshade’s eyes blazed with anger. “Then prove yourself to them!”

“Why should I?” Storm growled. “They stopped believing in me!”

“Every warrior must prove himself,” Mapleshade argued. “You must go home! Your destiny lies with your Clan.”

Storm heard pleading in her voice. “I’ll go back when I’m big and strong so I can become an apprentice.”

“You’re already big and strong!” Mapleshade pressed. “These couthy farmers feed you so much you’re as fat them!” She roughly poked Storm’s slightly jutting stomach. “You’ve probably forgotten what fish taste like.”

Storm sighed, missing the taste of fish. Then he shook his head. He liked living on the farm. He liked feeling needed. He liked how Dorian respected him and Robin looked up to him. He liked how Chloe always clung to his arm and Piper helped him spot birds in the fields.

Besides, what if Mapleshade was wrong? His great destiny could lie here. “What if my Clanmates never see past my jaw?” he whispered. “What if Hailstar never makes me an apprentice?”

“He won’t if you stay away much longer,” Mapleshade growled. “You’re a loner.”

Storm glared at her. “I’m a member of RiverClan.”

“Then go home and prove it.”

Chapter Text

Storm awoke with a gasp, feeling sweaty yet cold at the same time.

He heard shuffling near the front of the barn and stood up quickly.

Maurice was just pushing the door open, grunting with the effort. He blinked in surprise upon seeing Storm. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to spook you.” In his hands, he held a small plate of cooked egg, along with the boiled leg of a chicken. “I brought you breakfast.”

Since coming to the farm, Storm had taken residence in the barn. Maurice had given him blankets to lay on, along with a large, soft slab of fabric stuffed with feathers.

Storm’s mouth watered at the amazing smell. Townsfolk had a much more diverse menu than the Clans.

The dazzling sun shone through the windows as Storm sat down to eat. Although he missed the taste of fish, the food Maurice always brought him was just as warm and just as filling.

Maurice was watching him. “Do you ever miss your family, Storm?”

“A little.” Storm swallowed his mouthful and met Maurice’s gaze. “But they don’t need me like Mitzi and the kids do.”

“I can take care of-”

Storm stood up and pushed past Maurice before he could finish. Maurice caught up as Storm was emerging out of the barn. Storm glanced at him anxiously. Was the farmer going to tell him he didn’t want him around anymore?

Maurice caught up, gazing over the meadows. “The weather’s been nice, lately.”

Sunshine glared over the farm track as they headed into the cornfield. The crest of the hill cut into blue, cloudless sky. The hedgerows spilled over, blossoming and lush.

Suddenly, a strange noise stirred the air. “What’s that sound?”

Rumbling sounded in the distance.

Maurice halted. “Must be the combine.” He continued walking for a long moment, then halted, eyes wide. “The combine! What’s it doing out here? The harvest isn’t until tomorrow!” His voice was edged with panic. He raced off down the path.

Storm stared after him. “What’s the harvest?” he called.

“They’re cutting the corn!” Maurice shouted. “The kids are playing out here!”

Horror gripped Storm. He shot after the man.

Maurice stopped abruptly. Storm skidded to a halt beside him, staring into the corn. A huge, green machine was roaring through the corn, sucking up the golden stems into huge, spinning blades.

“Mitzi!” Maurice shouted.

Storm charged forward down the path, clearing the ditch. He shot through the hedge with Maurice on his heels, charging into the corn. The combine rumbled toward them, heading straight for the clearing where the children liked to play. Storm heard screaming as he neared the hollow. He burst into the clearing. Mitzi stood there, eyes wide, Piper in her arms and Robin at her side.

Maurice followed, running to his wife. “Where’s Dorian and Chloe?”

“Dorian’s at the house,” Mitzi said. “Chloe ran into the corn.” Her green eyes were wide with terror.

“I’ll find her.” Storm glanced at the machine. He could see its head advancing over the corn. “Which way did Chloe go?” he demanded.

“I didn’t see!” Mitzi gasped.

Robin pointed at the corn. “That way!”

Storm dived into the stems. He sneezed as dust filled his nose. “Chloe!” he shouted. The roaring machine was blasting closer. He plunged deeper into the corn. With a rush of hope, he spotted a few bent stems. He followed the path, heart pounding.

It lead straight toward the combine.

Storm weaved onward, following the bent corn stems. The combine howled closer. Storm glanced up and gasped, seeing the green body just a few lengths from him, the spinning blades dangerously close.

“Help!” Chloe’s scream was shrill against the roar. She was just visible through the golden corn. She was closer to the combine.

Storm dived through the corn and shoved Chloe into the corn. The stalks whipped his face so hard he tasted blood on his lip. Pain jarred his jaw and he fought back panic as the combine whirled past. Once they were clear of its path, he stopped, trembling.

He fell to his knees. Chloe leaned over him, quivering. As the combine rumbled away, footsteps crunched the broken stalks.

“Is everyone okay?” Maurice crouched beside them, eyes wide.

“Yeah,” Storm panted. “Let’s get her to the house before that monster comes back.”

“One of the farmhands got the days mixed up and thought we were starting the harvest today.” Maurice picked up Chloe and waited for Storm to stand. “Did it hurt you?”

Storm wiped the blood off his split lip. “I’m fine.”

“Storm saved me!” Chloe gasped.

Storm frowned at her. “Next time, don’t run off.” He followed Maurice back across the cut path and through the corn to the edge of the field. Mitzi was huddling the others close to her. She sighed with relief upon seeing them.

“Storm reached her just in time,” Maurice explained.

Mitzi stared at him, eyes warm. “You saved my daughter,” she whispered. “You really are a warrior.”

“You could have been killed,” Maurice grunted.

Storm glanced over his shoulder. The combine was heading back toward the shed where it usually slept. Its blades were still now, but he imaged them slicing into RiverClan’s camp, destroying everything he knew.

He shuddered. “I need to go home.”

“I won’t let something like that happen again,” Maurice said apologetically. “You don’t have to leave.”

“It’s not that,” Storm said. He had to go back and become a true warrior. He had to protect his Clan. He was glad he’d saved Chloe, but this was only the beginning. He was destined to be great. The greatest warrior the Clans had ever seen. He didn’t care if his Clan thought he was small or ugly. He would make them see that his heart was brave and loyal.

He nodded to Maurice.

“I’ll never forget you,” he promised. “I wish I could stay, but I don’t belong here. I’m a Clan warrior. It’s time I went home.”

Chapter Text

The path sloped down and the roar of the waterfall filled Storm’s ears. He’d walked all night, across the Thunderpath and through WindClan’s territory. The sky was growing pale beyond the trees. RiverClan would be awaking soon. He hurried down the path beside the gorge. It seemed narrower than last time he’d passed through here. He’d grown. He was also more sure-footed and didn’t peer over the edge, keeping his gaze fixed ahead until he could make out the river that snaked through RiverClan territory.

He wondered if Dorian, Chloe, Robin and Piper were awake yet. Perhaps Mitzi had gone to the market again while Maurice watched them. Were the kids asking about him, wondering where he’d gone and if he’d come back? Storm’s heart twisted.

He missed them already.

The path flattened out onto the bank and the bushes grew lush. Mist shrouded the river, protecting the reed beds that surrounded camp.

The stepping stones were hardly visible in the mist, each stone only appearing as he reached the one before. He landed on the pebbly shore and scrambled onto the grassy path.

“Storm?” A voice hailed from the mist and the dark shape of Mudfur emerged onto the path ahead. Rippleclaw and Echomist flanked him.

“You’re alive!” Echomist called joyful, rushing to grab him into a hug.

“I’ll get Shellheart,” Mudfur said, darting back to camp.

“Where did you go?” Echomist asked, pushing him away to look down at him. “We were worried sick. We thought a bear took you.”

Storm stared at the ground, hot with shame. Had everyone really been worried about him? “I’m sorry.”

Rippleclaw narrowed his eyes. “So you did run away?”

Storm nodded. “But I came back.”

“Why?”

Echomist turned on him. “Don’t be cruel, Rippleclaw! He’s safe, and that’s what matters.”

“RiverClan doesn’t need warriors who run away-”

The pounding of footsteps cut him off as Shellheart burst out of the mist. “You’re alive!” he gasped, staring at his son. His eyes shone. “And you’ve gotten bigger.”

Oak darted past his father and dived on Storm, nearly toppling him over. “Where have you been?”

“I went to find the Moonstone,” Storm explained.

“Did you get lost?” Oak asked.

“Come on,” Shellheart interrupted. “Hailstar wants to see you.” He wrapped an arm around Storm’s shoulders, leading him back to camp. Through the mist, Storm could see his smile.

Storm felt butterflies in his stomach when he saw the familiar woven reed walls of the camp. “How’s mom?” he whispered to Shellheart.

“She’s fine,” he reassured. “Everyone’s fine.” He ducked into camp. Storm followed, Oak and Echomist following.

Hailstar was already in the clearing. Mudfur stood beside him, eyes bright. Troutclaw, Tanglewhisker and Birdsong were padding down the slope from their hut. Brightsky and Lakeshine exchanged excited whispered.

Fallowtail hurried from her hut to see them. “I can’t believe he’s back,” she murmured.

Piketooth and Shimmerpelt sat together, staring at Storm. Timberfur emerged from the reed beds, dripping wet. Ottersplash slid out of her hut, yawning.

“Softwing, Whitefang, wake up!” Ottersplash called. “Look who’s here!”

Storm watched them emerge sleepily from their huts. From the apprentice’s hut toppled out Vole, Beetle and Petal.

“Storm’s back!” Petal raced to him.

“You’ve gotten bigger!” Vole said.

Beetle narrowed his eyes. “He’s chubby.”

“I am not!” Storm had gained plenty of weight in the month he’d been away, but he wasn’t out of shape.

“Who’s been feeding you?” Beetle challenged.

Storm lifted his chin. “I’ve been hunting for myself.”

“Really?” Hailstar walked toward him. “Not bad.”

Storm searched the RiverClan leader’s gaze, relieved to see warmth brimming in him brown eyes.

“You’ve had everyone very worried,” Hailstar growled. “But it’s good to see you home.”

Rippleclaw walked into camp. “You’re letting him back into the Clan?”

“Of course!” Tanglewhisker called. “Storm is one of us.”

Birdsong leaned against her husband. “That’s right. We would never turn on our own Clanmate. Besides, he’s just a boy. We can’t send him out of his own.”

“He’s been doing fine on his own, by the looks of it,” Rippleclaw grunted.

Cedarpelt stepped forward. “Where has he been?”

“His aura is different,” Lakeshine said. “Like dry grass and dust.”

“He’s been away for so long, of course it’s changed,” Shellheart said.

Cedarpelt and Rippleclaw exchanged a glance. “How can we trust him not to leave again?”

“Yeah!” Beetle scowled. “While he’s been away getting fat, some of us have been busy training.”

“I’ll start my training whenever you want me to!” Storm stared hopefully at Hailstar.

Suddenly, Brambleberry hurried out of the healer’s hut. She stopped in front of Storm. “Are you okay?”

“I’m fine,” Storm said. Why did she look so worried?

Brambleberry smiled softly. “Thank StarClan you’re home.”

Hailstar narrowed his eyes. “I would like to know where you’ve been.”

“I went looking for the Moonstone,” Storm said.

“The Moonstone!” Shellheart gasped. “That’s so far away!”

Footsteps scuffle the clearing. “He was always too adventurous for his own good.”

Rainflower’s voice made Storm shiver. He turned to face his mother, trying to read her expression. Her eyes were narrowed, arms crossed.

Storm turned back to Hailstar. “I wanted to ask StarClan if there was anything I could do to fix my life. I was upset about my jaw and not becoming an apprentice.”

Hailstar narrowed his eyes. “What did StarClan say?”

“I never reached the Moonstone,” Storm confessed. “But I found my answer. My destiny is to be a RiverClan warrior.”

Brambleberry frowned. “How did you find your answer if you didn’t reach the Moonstone?” she asked. “Did StarClan visit you?”

Storm hesitated. He didn’t want the Clan to know he’d disobeyed StarClan by not going home immediately. “I helped a farmer save his children and realized I should be helping my Clan.” He turned to Hailstar. “I’m sorry I ran away. It was dumb and childish. It’ll never happen again. I want to be the best warrior I can be.”

Hailstar’s eyes flashed with amusement. “Better than Shellheart?”

Storm glanced at his father. “If I can.”

The RiverClan leader nodded. “Alright, then. RiverClan needs strong warriors.”

“Welcome back, Storm!” Petal rushed to congratulate him. Echomist, Birdsong and Tanglewhisker weaved around him.

“Can I welcome back my son, please?” Rainflower was waiting behind Birsong. The elder scuttled out of the way. ‘Welcome home.” She placed her hand gently on the top of Storm’s head. “I’m glad you’re safe.”

Storm swallowed back his emotion. “Me too.” He looked up, but she was already moving away.

“Can I join your patrol?” she called to Rippleclaw.

“Of course.” Rippleclaw signaled to Echomist and Mudfur. “We still need to check the border.”

“I can’t believe you went all the way to the Moonstone by yourself,” Petal said.

“Not all the way,” Storm corrected.

“I bet you didn’t even make it past WindClan territory,” Beetle scoffed.

Vole’s eyes were round. “How far did you get?”

Rippleclaw paused at the entrance. “Petal, Vole, come with us. Mudfur wants to assess your hunting today. We might as well do it now.”

Ottersplash crossed the clearing. “You too, Beetle. We’re practicing hunting in the beech copse.”

“Can Oak come, too?” Beetle’s eyes flashed. “I always learn more when there’s someone to compete with.”

“You can compete with your siblings,” Ottersplash said.

“But they’re easy to beat.”

“That’s not true!” Vole snapped.

Storm watched them follow their mentors out of camp, then turned to Oak. “Do you have to train, too?”

“We can’t waste time,” Shellheart said gently. “You can tell us about your adventures tonight.”

Storm nodded. He’d caused the Clan enough disruption for one day. “Okay,” he said. “I’ll see you later.”

“You can clean out the elder’s hut,” Shellheart suggested, walking away with Oak at his side.

Tanglewhisker scratched his nose. “We could use a change of bedding.”

Storm stifled a sigh. He’d learned more and traveled farther than any apprentice, but he still had to stay in camp and clean out huts. Becoming a warrior would take quite a while.

Chapter Text

Mist shrouded the earth and trees rose around him with smooth gray trunks that soared so high the leaves disappeared into the darkness above. Mapleshade emerged from behind a trunk, disturbing the mist. “They took you back.”

“Of course.” Storm stared at her. “I’m a member of RiverClan.”

“I was worried you’d forgotten.”

Storm narrowed his eyes. “I came back,” he growled. “Isn’t that good enough?”

Mapleshade sat down and crossed her legs. “You’ve got guts, kid.”

“What do you want with me?” Storm asked. He’d come home, so what more did StarClan have to say?

“I want to help fulfill your destiny.” Mapleshade leaned forward.

“What is my destiny?”

“If you obey me and train hard, I can make you leader.”

“Leader?” Storm gasped. “But I’m not even an apprentice yet!”

Mapleshad nodded. “You were hoping Hailstar would be so impressed by your journey, he’d make you an apprentice. Am I correct?”

Storm flinched. “I can hunt,” he insisted. “And I’m big now.”

“Hailstar can’t reward disobedience,” Mapleshade pointed out. “He’ll make you an apprentice soon.”

“I don’t get why he can’t do it now,” Storm complained.

Mapleshade’s green eyes flashed. “I can train you,” she offered. “But you’d have to keep it a secret.”

Storm leaned forward. “You could?”

“It’s been a while since I’ve had an apprentice.”

“If you make me your apprentice I’ll work hard, I’ll do anything you tell me.” Storm moved forward as Mapleshade stood. “I’ll meet with you every night and you can show me how to hunt and fight.”

Mapleshade thought for a moment. “First, you’ll have to learn some patience.”

Storm crossed his arms. “I’ll do my best. I’ll train harder than any apprentice.”

“Alright,” Mapleshade said slowly. “But you have to promise me something.”

Storm nodded. “Anything!”

“I can do more than make you leader. I can give your everything you’ve ever wanted,” she said. “Power over your Clanmates. Power over all the Clans!”

Storm’s eyes widened. “I promise!”

Mapleshade laughed. “You don’t even know what you’re promising yet.” She lowered her voice seriously. “You must promise that you will be loyal to your Clan above all other things. What you want for yourself is nothing compared to the needs of your Clan. Absolutely nothing. Do you promise?”

Storm’s heart quickened. “Yes! I promise!”

Chapter Text

“No! No!” Mapleshade snapped. “Keep your knees bent or you’ll lose your balance.” She pushed Storm until he was kneeling. “Do it again.”

Concentrating hard, Storm brought his hands up and punched the air in front of him, keeping his knees bent and on his toes.

“Much better. Now try it on me.”

Storm blinked. “What if I hurt you?”

Mapleshade barked a laugh. “You can try.” She faced him.

Storm’s thoughts whirled with excitement as he reached forward to strike Mapleshade. But she was too fast, moving under him and pushing him up. With a shout of surprise, he was on the ground.

Mapleshade stood over him. “Don’t lose your focus. I could see your eyes. Your thoughts weren’t on the battle in the present.”

Storm stood up, feeling soggy. “Can I try again?”

Pain gripped his stomach. He could still feel where Mapleshade had hit him when he opened his eyes. Dawn light filtered through the nursery roof. Fallowtail was snoring lightly. Storm had only had the nursery to himself for a few months before Fallowtail had moved in. Her twins daughter slept in her arms. They were four years old now.

He longed to ask what she’d been doing on the moorland all those years ago, but he didn’t want to barge in on a secret. It was warrior business.

Although he was well past the age a child was made an apprentice, he was still in the nursery.

For four years, he woke every morning hoping Hailstar would make him an apprentice. At least his Clanmates weren’t treating him like a useless baby anymore. He cleaned out the elder’s bedding and helped patch the warrior’s huts in the winter. Piketooth had taught him how to swim and how to catch minnows in the reeds. He ate with his Clanmates, neater than before. He’d learned to tilt his head to one side, letting all the food in his mouth fall to the even side of his jaw. He didn’t care if he looked odd- as long as he kept getting bigger.

Brambleberry kept saying he’d be an apprentice soon. He was getting too big for the nursery.

After Willow and Gray had been born, that had seemed even more true. Storm helped Fallowtail stay comfortable while she took care of the twins. He’d had to clear away the training wall to make room for his own bed. He wondered who the twins’ father was. He’d never visited and Fallowtail had yet to name anyone. She wasn’t even married.

People were starting to whisper.

Outside, it was snowing lightly.

“Can we go play?” Willow begged.

Fallowtail looked at Storm, who was throwing out his old bedding. “Would you take them outside, please?” she begged. “I need to clean out my bed, too.”

Storm smiled. “Sure.” He slid out of the nursery, sinking to his ankles in the high snow. Thick gray clouds promised more. “We can’t stay out for long,” he told the twins as they climbed out behind him. “You’ll freeze.”

Willow waded through the snow. “Can you carry us?” she squeaked.

Storm crouched down so they could climb on his back. He straightened awkwardly and plodded through the snow.

“Why are you still in the nursery if you’re so old?” Willow asked.

“Hush!” Gray chided. “Mama says we’re not supposed to ask about that!”

“But I’m curious,” Willow said. “Oak’s been an apprentice since before we were born. And aren’t you older than him, Storm? Why aren’t you an apprentice?”

“I broke my jaw,” Storm said, pushing through the snowy clearing.

“But you’re better now,” Willow pointed out.

“He ran away,” Gray whispered to her sister. “None of the warriors want him to become an apprentice.”

Storm pretended not to hear. Was that true? Did the warriors think he wasn’t loyal? “Where do you want to go?”

“To the reed bed,” Gray chimed. “Petal told us the water freezes when it’s cold and you can walk on it.”

“Only if a warrior tests it first,” Storm warned. “It could break.” He waded through the snow where it had piled beside the apprentice’s hut and headed for the frost-stricken reeds.

Rippleclaw and Brightsky were discarding all the spoiled meat from the food storage. With the river so cold, the hunting patrols had started scouring the land for food. Birds and frogs went bad quicker than fish.

“There.” Storm dropped the twins off by the river. A thin frosting of ice coated the surface.

Willow peered over the bank. “Can we walk on it?”

“It’s too thin.”

“Then let’s play warriors!” Willow rushed away, sinking to her knees in the snow. Gray chased her, scooping up a handful of snow and hurling it at her sister.

Storm laughed. He wanted to join in, but Rippleclaw was watching him. It was bad enough being called a child without acting like one.

A shadow flitted over the clearing. Storm looked up. An eagle was circling. Its great wings flapped, dark in the pale sky. Its beak was sharp like a spear. His heart lurched when its beady eyes landed on the twins. They were small enough to get picked up by a big, hungry bird.

“You be WindClan,” Gray said to Willow. “I’ll be RiverClan. Try and invade my camp.” Gray was in the center of the clearing. She was piling snow around her in a makeshift wall.

With a shrill battle cry, Willow threw herself at the wall. “Invasion!” she said, jumping on top of Gray.

The eagle drew into a tighter circle over the clearing.

Storm stiffened. “Gray.” He tried to keep calm. He didn’t want them to panic and go running off. “Willow, come here.”

“Get away, WindClan!” Gray cried as Willow got her in a head lock. “You won’t take my camp!”

“Willow!” Storm waded through the snow. “Gray! Let’s get back inside.”

“Why?” Willow let go of her sister.

“We’re not even cold!” Gray complained.

Suddenly, the eagle dived. Its piercing cry split the air.

Storm dove for the twins.

The air whistled above him as the eagle screeched.

He closed his eyes, expecting to feel sharp talons rip apart his spine.

Then the eagle cawed in pain.

Storm raised his head. Ottersplash had grabbed its legs, hauling it to the ground. Beetle leaped on the eagle, holding it down.

The eagle turned to peck at Beetle’s eye. With a yelp, he jumped back, letting it flutter off into the sky. He frowned, wincing as he watched it escape.

“Get back here, coward!” he shouted after it.

Ottersplash stood up, shivering and covered in snow. She turned to Storm. “That was fast thinking! We were lucky you saw that bird first.”

Brightsky darted toward them. “Are the twins okay?”

The nursery shook as Fallowtail burst out of the entrance. Trembling with relief, Storm sat up, letting Willow and Gray stand with him.

“What was that for?” Willow whined.

Fallowtail skidded to a halt, kicking up snow. “What happened?”

“It’s okay, they’re safe,” Ottersplash reassured her.

Hailstar emerged from his hut.

“Storm saved the twins,” Ottersplash called to him.

“An eagle dived at them.” Rippleclaw walked closer. “Storm shielded them.”

“He nearly crushed us!” Gray complained.

Ottersplash glared at her. “He risked his life to protect you!”

“Thanks for fighting it off,” Storm said to Ottersplash and Beetle. “I thought it would shred me.”

Fallowtail wrapped her arms around the twins. “Thank you, Storm.”

Hailstar held his head high. “How big was the eagle?”

“Huge!” Ottersplash gasped.

“I didn’t get to see it!” Gray complained.

Willow frowned. “That’s because Storm nearly smashed us!”

“You saved the twins,” Hailstar said to Storm, his eyes glowing. “I should have done this a long time ago, but your Clan needed to see your courage and loyalty. Today, you risked your life to save your Clanmates. It’s time you began your training.” He raised his head. “Let all those old enough to swim gather to hear my words!”

Storm’s heart soared.

The elders were already hurrying out of their hut. Shellheart walked into camp, then paused. “What’s going on?” He stared at his Clanmates as they gathered in the center of the clearing. Storm proudly met his gaze.

Oak raced across the snow. “We can train together!” He hugged Storm tightly, careful not to brush his crooked jaw. “We’ll be warriors soon! I can’t wait! I promise as soon as I’m leader, I’ll make you deputy.”

“Not if I become leader first,” Storm laughed.

Hailstar glanced around his Clan, his eyes landing on Cedarpelt.

Storm’s heart sank. Cedarpelt despised him.

“Cedarpelt!” Hailstar called. “You distrusted Storm when he first returned. You will demand more of him than any other mentor.”

Storm didn’t think that was true. No one could be as nitpicky as Mapleshade.

“You will make him into a fine warrior. One day, I hope his honor and bravery will match yours,” Hailstar continued.

Even if Cedarpelt wasn’t the mentor he would have liked, Storm couldn’t help but grin. Oak and Shellheart excitedly babbled around him.

Brambleberry raised her head. “Storm! Storm!” The healer’s eyes shone with pride.

Beetle, Vole and Petal joined in. Troutclaw’s raspy voice made the air shudder. As his Clanmates called his name, Storm looked around for Rainflower Had she seen him become an apprentice?

She was standing beside Shimmerpelt, staring at him silently.

Shellheart and Oak were the loudest of the crowd. “Storm! Storm!”

Storm met Rainflower’s gaze. Finally, she raised her voice.

“Storm!”

Chapter Text

“Sweep your cloak back!” Mapleshade ordered.

Storm threw his brand new light brown cloak away from his legs. The move unbalanced him, making him stagger.

“You’ve got two mentors and you can’t even keep your balance,” Mapleshade growled. “Again!”

Storm glared at her. ‘What’s the point of sweeping my cloak back?”

“The less your enemy can grab, the better,” Mapleshade explained.

“But I get distracted by it.”

“You’ll just have to keep practicing.” Mapleshade paced around him, hands folded behind her back. “Try again.”

Concentrating, Storm got into a defensive stance. He swept his cloak up and punched at the air, his muscles burning, but he staggered back.

“You’re getting better,” Mapleshade encouraged.

“But it’s not good enough,” Storm grunted. He tried again.

“Keep going!” Mapleshade ordered.

“I have to train with Cedarpelt during the day,” he grumbled. “I’m tired.”

“You want to be the best warrior in RiverClan, don’t you?”

“Of course,” Storm snapped. “But I need rest.” He gazed around the shadowy forest. “Can you show me around StarClan territory? Cedarpelt showed me RiverClan territory on my first day as an apprentice.”

“Not until you learn this move.”

“I can learn it tomorrow night.” Storm crossed his arms. “I want to see StarClan.”

“No!” Mapleshade snapped. She moved in front of him. “You’re not ready.”

“That’s not fair!” Storm growled.

The slap caught him off guard, stinging his cheek.

“What was that for?” he gasped. His twisted jaw ached.

She glared at him. “Remember your promise!” she growled. “You must be prepared to do anything for the sake of your Clan.”

“What’s that have to do with exploring StarClan territory?” Storm retorted.

Mapleshade narrowed her eyes. “You’re not here to ask questions, you’re here to learn.”

“But how can I learn if I can’t ask-”

Storm gasped awake, staring at the dark roof of the apprentice’s hut.

“Are you okay?” Oak had rolled over to look at him. “You were mumbling in your sleep.”

Storm sat up. Sometimes he wished he could tell Oak about his StarClan mentor, but Mapleshade had made him swear not to tell anyone. He couldn’t disobey StarClan.

Rain drummed the top of the hut. Beetle, Vole and Petal were still asleep. Bones aching, Storm stood up. “Has the dawn patrol left yet?”

Oak shook his head. “They’re in the clearing.”

Storm poked his head out of the hut.

Cedarpelt stood in the middle of the clearing. “Are we going to mark Sunningrocks?”

“We need to,” Lakeshine said. “It’s our turn to take them back.”

Mudfur’s voice was gruff. “Why is there so much drama over a bunch of rocks?”

“It’s our land!” Cedarpelt snapped. “We can’t give it up.”

Beetle groaned in a wide yawn. “Is the patrol out there?” He sat up.

“I’m going!” Petal shot up. “What about you?” She looked at Storm. “Cedarpelt’s going.”

“I hope I am,” Storm said. He glanced at Oak. ‘What are you doing today?”

“Shellheart’s taking me fishing with Vole and Rippleclaw.”

Vole yawned and stretched. “If it keeps raining like this, the river will bring the fish straight to us.”

“If only,” Storm laughed. Through the haze of rain he saw Shellheart assigning patrols beneath the willow tree. Echomist, Timberfur, Brightsky and Owlfur clustered around him.

Cedarpelt stood by the wall of camp while Lakeshine and Mudfur huddled close to each other, watching Hailstar’s hut. Its draping moss quivered as the RiverClan leader emerged.

Petal excitedly hurried out of the hut to join them. Storm followed.

Cedarpelt moved to block his path. “Next time.”

Storm stopped, nearly slipping on the muddy ground. “Why not this time?”

“We’re checking the borders,” Cedarpelt said. “You’re not ready for a battle.”

“I can fight!” This could be his chance to show off Mapleshade’s moves.

Cedarpelt narrowed his eyes. “You can fight when I say you can fight.”

“Come on!” Lakeshine called from the camp entrance.

“I’ll give you an assessment this afternoon. I promise.” Cedarpelt turned and headed through the sedge.

Storm sighed. Behind him, he heard a small splash.

“No!” Willow cried as he turned around. She had accidentally stomped into a puddle.

Gray came up behind her. “She was trying to sneak up on you.”

“I nearly had you!” Willow huffed.

Storm snorted, amused. “Shouldn’t you be inside?”

Gray lifted her chin. “We’re members of RiverClan. We like being wet.”

“There’s a difference between being wet and drowning.” Brambleberry’s stern voice made Gray jump. The healer was heading over from her hut. “I don’t think your mother will appreciate you trudging mud into the nursery.” She stopped beside Storm. “If you’ve nothing better to do, you could get me coltsfoot.”

“From the waterfall?”

“You remembered!” Brambleberry sounded pleased. “We need a fresh stock. Rain in the winter always brings colds and fevers. Do you remember what it looks like?”

“I’ll know it when I see it,” Storm promised.

“Can we come, too?” Willow asked.

Storm shook his head, smiling sympathetically. He knew all too well how it felt to be trapped in the camp. “Sorry. There’s a reason children aren’t allowed outside of camp.” He pointed to his twisted jaw.

“We’ll be careful,” Gray promised.

“Yes, you will,” Brambleberry said. “From the safety of the nursery. You be careful, too, Storm. The path will be slippery.”

“I will.” Storm raced for the camp entrance. Brambleberry was depending on him.

There wasn’t much shelter on the riverbank now that the bushes had died out for the winter. But the rain was easing by the time the path sloped up to meet with the gorge. Storm climbed the wet stone track, pulling his cloak over his head to ward off the mist of the waterfall. He spotted the waxy leaves of coltsfoot and glanced at the sky. He was relieved to see it was brightening. The clouds were thinning, stretching to show patches of blue. He stopped beside a fragrant green clump on the edge of the path. Beyond, the cliff dropped away into swirling water.

The coltsfoot was brown with frost, but a core of rich leaves still curled in the center. Storm plucked at the wet leaves, laying the sprigs on the path behind him.

“Are you Brambleberry’s apprentice?”

The husky voice made Storm jump. Heart lurching, he spun around and saw three WindClan warriors standing at the top of the waterfall. Storm backed away, grabbing the coltsfoot.

The three warriors followed him. “You’re on RiverClan land!” Storm growled, panicking. How was he going to fight off three fully grown warriors by himself? He couldn’t run and risk leading them into camp. He eyed them nervously. Their eyes were wide, shoulders slack. The lead of the patrol, a tall man with brown hair, stared at him steadily. Besides him stood another man and a small woman.

“l’m Reedfeather, the WindClan deputy. I need to speak with Hailstar.”

Storm frowned. “Why?”

Reedfeather nodded to his Clanmates. “Go back to camp,” he told them. I’ll be fine.”

The two warriors darted back up the path, disappearing over the crest of the falls.

Reedfeather nodded to Storm. “What’s your name?”

“Storm.”

“Are you Brambleberry’s apprentice?”

Storm shook his head. “Cedarpelt’s.”

“A warrior apprentice?” Reedfeather narrowed his eyes. “I haven’t seen you at a Gathering yet.”

“I’ve only been an apprentice for a month.” Storm shifted uncomfortably. Was he supposed to take an enemy warrior into camp just because he’d asked?

“You lead,” Reedfeather instructed. “I’ll follow.”

Storm stared uncertainly at the WindClan warrior.

“Here.” Reedfeather unsheathed his spear and threw it to the ground a few feet away. “I’m unarmed. I just want to talk.”

Storm stared uncertainly at the WindClan warrior.

“You can take me as prisoner if you must.”

After a moment of hesitation, Storm drew the spear from off his back and pointed it at Reedfeather, who calmly walked in front of him down the path. Storm jabbed the spear into his back, trying to make sure the deputy knew he was in charge.

As the river narrowed, Storm guided Reedfeather onto the shore. At the current, Reedfeather stopped, wincing as the spear poked his spine.

“Aren’t there stepping stones?” Reedfeather asked.

Storm halted. “They’re farther downstream.” He didn’t think WindClan knew about the stepping stones.

“Can we cross there?” Reedfeather asked. “I don’t know how to swim.”

Storm backed away, letting Reedfeather get back onto the path. He took the deputy to the stepping stones and stood back to let him cross first. Swollen by rain, the river ran fast and brutally around the boulders. Storm followed, happy to be back on the wet sand on the shore. He immediately raised his spear again.

“Get moving!” He growled, pushing Reedfeather onto the grassy path.

As they neared camp, his stomach tightened. He was guiding an enemy warrior into the heart of their territory. What if all the warriors were out of camp? Who would defend the elders and children?

At least it looked like he had taken Reedfeather prisoner, even though the deputy had completely consented to it.

“Storm!” Vole called behind him.

Storm turned. “I thought you were swimming.”

“The river’s running too fast,” Vole said, halting as he caught sight of Reedfeather. “You captured a WindClan warrior!”

Storm glanced at Reedfeather. “You could say that. He said he wanted to talk to Hailstar.”

“WindClan!” Shimmerpelt charged out of her hut in alarm. “What’s he doing here?”

Reedfeather walked into the center of the clearing, a calm stride in his movements. The elders crowded out of their hut, staring at him from the top of the slope. Ottersplash and Lakeshine stopped weaving twigs into the gaps of the apprentice’s hut. Piketooth and Whitefang looked up from their meal. Oak was just emerging into camp, holding a carp. He dropped it in surprise, staring at Reedfeather.

“Reedfeather?” Shellheart was sitting by the willow tree. He stood up. “What are you doing here?”

Reedefeather nodded to the RiverClan deputy. “I need to speak with Hailstar.”

“He’s out on patrol.”

Reedfeather sat down in the middle of the clearing, crossing his legs. “Then I’ll wait.”

“No, you won’t!" Birdsong bustled down the slope, her face red with anger. “You’ll go home where you belong.” She glanced anxiously at the nursery where Fallowtail was peering out, eyes dark.

Storm wondered if Fallowtail knew why Reedfeather was here. He studied Reedfeather closely. His voice seemed familiar. Was he the one Fallowtail had been with four years ago?

The sedge rustled and Rippleclaw raced into camp. He skidded to a halt in front of Reedfeather. “I knew I sensed WindClan!” Hailstar followed him, along with Cedarpelt, Petal and Beetle.

Shellheart nodded to his leader. “Storm found him by the border,” he reported. “He wants to speak with you.”

Reedfeather stood up with a grunt. Storm noticed one of his legs seemed injured. Not so badly to hinder him, but enough to be noticeable. “I’ve come to ask for what is mine.”

Willow and Gray tumbled out of the nursery. Fallowtail tried to grab them, but they were too fast.

“I’ve never seen a WindClan warrior!” Willow gasped.

Gray stared at him. “His aura is strange!”

“Hush!” Birdsong shielded the twins from the deputy.

Cedarpelt crossed the clearing to stand beside Fallowtail and Birdsong. Storm lifted his chin, proud of his mentor for being so protective of his mother and sister.

Reedfeather nodded. “I’ve come to take my daughters home.”

Cedarpelt stiffened. “Your daughters?”

Storm stared at Reedfeather.

“You can’t!” Fallowtail cried.

There was a gasp from the clearing. Storm looked around, starting to put pieces together. No man had ever stepped forward as the twins’ father. Storm had once seen Fallowtail in WindClan territory eight months before the twins had been born.

Was Reedfeather their father?

Rippleclaw glared at Fallowtail. “You courted the WindClan deputy? You shrew!”

Fallowtail flinched away. “It was a mistake! I haven’t seen Reedfeather since the twins were born. I love them more than my own life and I wanted to bring them up as RiverClan warriors.” She stared at Reedfeather. “You can’t take them away from me. I’m their mother!”

The WindClan warrior returned her gaze. “They are as much mine as they are yours.”

Willow stared at her mother. “He can’t be our father,” she whimpered. “He doesn’t even look like us.”

Hailstar approached Fallowtail. “Is this true?”

Fallowtail stared at the ground.

Shellheart sighed. “If he’s the father, he has a right to them.”

Storm’s heart twisted.

Shimmerpelt crossed the clearing. “You can’t make her give up her children.”

Piketooth nodded. “They should be with their mother!”

“We can’t give them up!”

“They were born in RiverClan!”

“We can’t let WindClan take them.”

“How can we trust them?” Rippleclaw shouted. “They’re half WindClan.”

Tanglewhisker glared at the warrior. “Watch your tongue, boy. Those are my granddaughters you’re talking about.”

Gray squirmed away from her grandmother. “We’re RiverClan!” she cried. “We’ve always been RiverClan.”

“You’re WindClan, too,” Reedfeather said. “I will take care of you,” he promised. “We have plenty of food, and Dawnstripe has agreed to watch them in the nursery.” He scanned the clearing. “You have enough mouths to feed. What if there’s another flood? Or the river freezes over? It’s happened before.” His gaze returned to his daughters. “They’ll grow strong in WindClan.”

“No.” Hailstar shielded Fallowtail from Reedfeather.

Reedfeather narrowed his eyes. “If it comes to war, WindClan is prepared to fight for them.”

Hailstar returned his hard gaze. “RiverClan isn’t scared by your threats.”

“You should be,” Reedfeather said. “Don’t think the other Clans haven’t seen how you give up Sunningrocks every winter. RiverClan is weak. You make treaties instead of fighting for what’s supposedly yours. My Clanmates will join me in fighting to take what is mine. You should fear us, old man.”

Tension spiked through the air.

Fallowtail’s sob broke the silence. “I can’t let you all risk your lives for my mistake. It’s not worth it.”

Storm felt sick. She couldn’t just give up her children! He stared in disbelief as Fallowtail pushed away from the twins.

“Mama?” Willow blinked at her mother.

Gray spun to face her. “What are you doing?”

Hailstar stared at the woman, shocked. “Are you sure?”

She nodded. “We can’t risk war over something I did. The Clan shouldn’t be punished for my poor choices.”

Gray tried to reach for her mother, but Hailstar gently pushed her away. “You’re going to live in WindClan,” he said softly.

Willow stiffened. “He’s not our father! We’ve never seen him before!”

“I don’t like him!” Gray flinched as Reedfeather bent to examine them.

“You’ll be well taken care of,” he said. “WindClan is looking forward to meeting you.”

Willow turned to her mother, but Fallowtail was staring at the ground.

“No!” Gray screamed in terror as Reedfeather scooped her up. “Mommy!”

He walked toward the camp entrance.

Willow stared around at the Clan. “Why are you just standing there? Do something!”

“Willow!” Gray struggled in Reedfeather’s arms. “Don’t let him take me!”

Stumbling, Willow followed. “I’m coming, Gray! I’m coming!”

As they disappeared through the tunnel, Hailstar walked slowly to his hut.

Birdsong took Fallowtail against her chest, petting her daughter’s hair. “They’ll never forget you.”

Shimmerpelt wiped the woman’s tears away. “You’ll see them again. They’ll always be your daughters.”

Fallowtail tore away from them and rushed to the nursery, wailing in sorrow.

Rippleclaw rolled his eyes. “Why would she want to go in there?”

Ottersplash spun around. “Shut up, you brute!”

Storm darted after the grief-stricken mother and squeezed into the nursery after her. He searched for words to comfort her as she collapsed into her bed, sobbing brokenly.

How could anyone separate a mother from her children? His heart ached for the broken family. The twins must be terrified in WindClan. He sat down next to Fallowtail.

“We’ll get them back,” he promised. “No matter what, they will come back.”

Chapter Text

“No, no, no!” Cedarpelt shouted.

Storm straightened. “What?”

A lump of snow dropped from an icy branch overhead, landing on his head. He dusted it from his hair. He could see the meadow and the snow covered moorlands from here. The frosted beeches were stark against the gray sky. The marsh meadow stretched below, smoothed by snow, and the small clearing beside the beech copse was icy.

Cedarpelt sighed. “How many times do I need to tell you? When you’re attacking, bunch your shoulders and make yourself look big. StarClan gave you wide shoulders for a reason.”

“But the other Clans already know that trick,” Storm said. Mapleshade always told him to look smaller so his opponent would underestimate him.

“In the heat of battle, you don’t think about tricks,” Cedarpelt insisted. “All your opponent will see is someone bigger than them.”

“Fine,” Storm snapped. He bunched his shoulders up his neck, holding out his arms. “Big enough?” he couldn’t wait for his first battle so he could see which mentor was right.

Cedarpelt snorted in amusement.

“What?” Storm frowned.

“It’s like your neck disappeared.” He shook his head.

Storm’s irritation dissolved. “Make up your mind!” As he relaxed, a sound made him turn.

“What is it?” Cedarpelt walked over to him, scanning the marsh.

Storm could see figures moving across the snow. He sighed in relief, recognizing them as his Clanmates.

“Piketooth!” Cedarpelt called.

Beetlenose ducked ahead of his Clanmates to reach the beeches first. “How’s training, Storm?” he called. “Getting the hang of it?”

Storm scowled. Although Beetlenose was the same age as him, he’d already been made a warrior. At least now he was out of the apprentice’s hut. Storm didn’t miss his boasting, but he did miss Voleclaw’s stupid jokes and Petaldust’s kindness. At least Oak was still there.

Storm’s heart sank. Would Oak become a warrior before him? He’d be alone again. There were no more children in the nursery, so he’d be alone until he was a warrior. He’d have to train by himself.

“How’s hunting?” Cedarpelt asked Piketooth.

“River’s frozen,” Piketooth said. “Any sign of birds around here?”

Cedarpelt shook his head.

“We were just at the WindClan border,” Piketooth said. “Reedfeather said the twins are doing well.”

Cedarpelt perked up at the mention of his nieces. “That’s good to hear.” He turned to Beetlenose. “Will you practice some battle moves with Storm? He knows my moves too well.”

Storm rolled his eyes. “What makes you think Beetlenose can surprise me?”

Beetlenose glared at him. “We only ever trained together twice.”

“That was twice too many,” Storm growled.

Piketooth stood between them. “Let’s be civil.” He glanced at Storm. “You still have plenty to learn. Perhaps Beetlenose could teach you something.”

Cedarpelt sighed. “Storm thinks he knows everything.” he nodded to Beetlenose. “Can he try his leg sweep on you?”

“He can try.” Beetle dropped into a defensive stance.

Storm ducked down as well, energy surging into his muscles. He raced forward. Beetlenose leaned back and raised his hands. Storm adjusted his balance and swept his cloak up, punching at Beetlenose. He blinked with surprise as Beetlenose ducked under his fist and darted behind him.

Turning, Storm saw Beetlenose’s hands clapped together where we’d tried to grab his cloak. With a rush of satisfaction, he grabbed his own fist and slammed them down onto Beetlenose’s back. The young warrior was knocked flat on his stomach.

Beetlenose cried out and jumped up, rubbing his chin. It was red from the hit and the cold of the ground.

“Storm!” Cedarpelt’s voice was sharp. “This is just practice!”

“I didn’t draw a weapon!” Storm protested. “And we were supposed to be practicing the leg sweep. He was trying to trick me!”

“So?” Beetlenose stood up. “A warrior should be ready for anything!”

“Then why weren’t you prepared for my counterattack?” Storm snapped.

“You grabbed your own cloak!” Beetlenose shouted. “That’s not fair! Who does that?”

Cedarpelt’s gaze darkened. “ThunderClan does,” he said. “Where did you learn that?”

Storm puffed out his chest. “I just thought it made sense.”

Cedarpelt narrowed his eyes. “It’s not fair to play tricks.”

“It wasn’t a trick!” Storm growled. “I taught him a new move.”

“Show some respect!” Cedarpelt snapped. “Beetlenose is a warrior. You’ve been an apprentice for two months. You’ve never even gone to a Gathering.”

Beetlenose was glaring at Storm. “You’ve always thought you were better than everyone.”

Cedarpelt marched past the warrior. “Let’s get back to camp,” he growled. “It’s freezing.”

Storm watched his mentor stomp down the slope, following. Guilt tugged his stomach. He hadn’t meant to show off. Beetlenose was just annoying.

They trekked back to camp in silence. The sedge tunnel was covered in snow and Storm had to duck to get inside. The camp glowed purple in the setting sun. Snow draped the walls and the huts. It had been swept from the clearing, but was still drifting down. The clearing was crisscrossed with footprints.

Cedarpelt headed for Hailstar’s hut. Storm’s heart sank. Was his mentor going to report his disobedience?

Beetlenose slammed his shoulder into Storm. “Serves you right!” He headed for the firepit, where Petaldust and Voleclaw were cooking a fish. Storm’s stomach growled. The freshly cooked meal smelled delicious.

“Don’t worry.” Piketooth paused beside Storm. “You’re not the first apprentice to have gotten in trouble, and you won’t be the last.” He walked across the clearing to sit beside his wife, Shimmerpelt.

“Storm!” Cedarpelt called from Hailstar’s hut. “Hailstar wants to talk to you.”

Storm trudged across the clearing. “I’m sorry.”

Cedarpelt shook his head. “We’ll start over tomorrow.” The stout man emerged from Hailstar’s hut.

Storm turned toward Hailstar. “I didn’t hurt Beetlenose on purpose,” he began.

Hailstar was sitting in the shadows of his hut. “He’ll be fine. I realize you’re in a hurry to finish your training-”

“I’m trying to be patient. Really! It’s just…” Storm stopped, realizing he’d interrupted his leader. “Sorry.”

“You mustn’t rush,” Hailstar began again, undeterred. “Take your time to learn what you need.”

Storm wanted to argue. He already knew so much! He was being trained by StarClan.

“You’ll be a warrior soon enough. Enjoy your training. Have some fun before taking on the responsibilities of-”

Hailstar was cut off by the distant scream of a child. Mudfur darted onto the frozen river, careful on the ice.

“What is it?” Brightsky followed her husband.

“A kid from town!” Mudfur called back. “Upstream. He’s fallen through the ice.”

Echomist rushed to Brightsky’s side, staring upriver. “He’ll drown!”

“There’s others with him,” Mudfur reported. “They’re pulling him out.” He backed onto the shore. “He’s fine.”

Echomist sighed. “Let’s hope that’s the most trouble they cause for the rest of the winter.”

Storm raised his head. Footsteps pounded through the snow beyond the sedge. Petaldust turned away from the river. Piketooth narrowed his eyes.

Shellheart thundered into camp, eyes bright. Oak and Owlfur followed. Softwing was the last to enter camp.

Softwing’s eyes were wide with excitement. “Oak saved us from a bear!” She skidded to a halt, sending snow spattering over her Clanmates.

“Report, Shellheart,” Hailstar said.

Piketooth straightened. “What happened?”

Shellheart turned to him. “We were attacked by a bear.”

“A bear!” Brightsky gasped. “Where was it?”

Softwing was bouncing with excitement. “We were patrolling beyond the marsh, near the border with town. It came out of nowhere and went straight for us.”

“How big was it?” Hailstar asked.

“Huge,” Shellheart said. “Three times my size.”

Brambleberry emerged from her hut. “Any injuries?”

“None,” Shellheart reported. “Oak was too fast.”

“He was so brave,” Softwing cooed.

Rainflower crossed the clearing and pushed Softwing out of the way. “Are you okay?” she asked Oak.

Oak took a step back, putting his hands up. “I’m fine.”

Brambleberry was checking on everyone in the patrol.

“It nearly got me!” Softwing’s eyes were round.

“It ripped your cloak!” Owlfur pointed to three long strips missing from Softwing’s striped cloak.

“But Oak distracted it before it could cause any real damage,” Shellheart said. He was gazing proudly at his son.

“He ran right at it and slashed its face,” Softwing said.

“It was more surprised than hurt,” Shellheart said. “But while it was distracted, we had time to climb a tree.”

Oak blushed, looking down at the ground bashfully. “I thought it was the right thing to do.”

Rainflower’s eyes glowed. “You saved your Clanmates.”

Oak shrugged. “If I hadn’t, I’m sure dad would have.” He glanced around. “Or Owlfur. Or Softwing. I was just the fastest.”

Hailstar raised his head. “You did well, Oak. But if a bear is on our territory, we must be wary. Let all those old enough to swim gather to hear my words!”

Storm pushed between Oak and Shellheart to sit down. “Nice work,” he whispered.

Shellheart was grinning. “I wish you could have seen it, Storm.”

Storm shot a warm glance at his brother. Even if he hadn’t seen it, he still knew Oak must have been brave.

Brambleberry sat beside them. “Courage must run in the family,” she murmured.

Rainflower had pushed Brambleberry out of the way to sit beside Oak. “I’m just glad you’re not hurt.”

Troutclaw walked stiffly down the slope. “What’s going on?”

“A bear attacked us,” Softwing called.

“Bear?” Tanglewhisker emerged from the elder’s hut with Birdsong. “Where was it?”

“In the marsh,” Owlfur explained. “Oak fought it off.”

Fallowtail slid out of her hut. She was thin, her dark hair spiked and unkept. “Did it follow you home?” she asked.

Echomist hurried to her side. “No, it’s gone.”

As the Clan gathered, Hailstar walked into the middle of the clearing. “Oak showed bravery today that has made him worthy of his warrior name.”

Oak gasped. Storm stared at him in astonishment. He was going to be made a warrior!

“Go on, Oak.” Shellheart nudged him forward.

“Oak.” Hailstar nodded to the boy. “From this moment on you will be own as Oakheart. StarClan honors your courage and intelligence, and we welcome you as a full warrior of RiverClan.” He pressed his forehead to Oakheart’s. “Serve your Clan well.”

Storm felt a surge of pride for his younger brother. His Clanmates raised their voices to call Oakheart’s name. But as he joined in, his voice caught in his throat.

Why was it so easy for Oakheart? He’d been made an apprentice on time, Rainflower adored him, and now he’d earned the respect of his Clanmates and his warrior name. Meanwhile, Storm was having petty squabbles with his Clanmates and getting scolded by his mentor.

He quickly pushed the thought away.

It didn’t matter how lucky Oakheart was. Storm would be a warrior soon, too, and they’d be fighting side by side.

“Oakheart! Oakheart!” He raised his voice to the dark sky.

Smiling, Oakheart walked into the clearing and stopped beside Storm, his eyes shining. “This is amazing!”

“Well done, Oakheart.” Shellheart put a hand on Oakheart’s shoulder.

Rainflower wrapped her son in a tight hug. “I’m so proud of you!”

Oakheart caught Storm’s eye. “It’s your turn next,” he said.

Rainflower rolled her eyes. “That doesn’t matter,” she murmured. “He’ll never be as good as you.”

Her words sliced through Storm’s heart like a knife.

Shellheart turned to glare at her, eyes flaming with rage. “Can’t you keep your thoughts to yourself for once?”

Storm tried not to glare at his mother. Why did she have to ruin everything?

“Ignore her,” Oakheart urged, taking Storm’s arm and pulled him away. His eyes were bright. “Guess what’s tomorrow!”

Storm thought for a moment, glancing at the sky. He noticed the moon, fat in the black night. “The full moon?”

“The Gathering!”

Storm felt a surge of excitement. Now that he was an apprentice, he could go. He glanced anxiously at Hailstar.

“Hailstar has to let you come,” Oakheart said, slapping his back. “You’re an apprentice and I’m a warrior. Hailstar has to let us go!"

Chapter Text

Storm’s breath billowed in the cold air. Frosted snow cracked underfoot as he followed his Clanmates down the shore. His stomach was flipping with excitement. Tonight was his first Gathering!

“Will we use the bridge?” he asked Oakheart.

Hailstar was leading the patrol along the shore toward a wooden structure build over the river by the townsfolk. The frozen river was silver as it snaked through the gorge.

“It’s the safest option tonight,” Oakheart whispered.

Warriors hardly ever used the townsfolks’ paths if they could help it, but the frozen river was dangerous and the stepping stones were too icy. Hailstar stepped onto the bridge, churning the snow. Brightsky followed, holding onto the frosty handrail. Petaldust and Beetlenose followed.

“Hurry up, you two!” Cedarpelt called over his shoulder.

Storm and Oakheart hurried down the bank. Owlfur and Ottersplash walked just ahead of them. Brambleberry moved like a ghost behind them, her white cloak wrapped around her.

Shellheart paused beside Cedarpelt as Storm and Oakheart caught up. “I hope it’s peaceful at the Gathering.”

Cedarpelt huffed. “Do you think ThunderClan will break the full moon truce?”

As the two warriors fell behind, Storm glanced over his shoulder. “WindClan might,” he predicted.

“Those two have been at each others throats more often than usual,” Oakheart agreed. “Do you think something happened?”

Shellheart followed them into the bridge. “Don’t gossip, you two. You’ll give yourself bad images of others.”

Storm nodded. “Do you think anyone will mention Gray and Willow?”

Shellheart glanced at Hailstar. “Not if we can help it.”

Storm peered over the side of the bridge. Moonlight glared on the ice. He looked up to see his Clanmates streaming up the slope toward ThunderClan territory. “Aren’t we going to follow the waterfall path?”

Oakheart shook his head. “There’s a truce,” he reminded him. “We can cross ThunderClan territory straight to Fourtrees.”

Storm was out of breath by the time they reached the steep rise. Oakheart had already disappeared into the trees. Storm gazed at the looming trunks.

“How do you like it?” Brambleberry waited for him at the top of the hill.

“It’s so dark.” Storm shivered. Every few lengths they passed sticks that had been hammered into the ground.

“Are you excited about the Gathering?” Brambleberry asked.

“Of course I am!”

“I’m very proud of you,” she murmured. “After you broke your jaw, I thought you’d never become an apprentice.” She glanced at him. “But you’ve grown so big and strong, I hardly recognize you.” She smiled, quickening her pace to catch up with the rest of the patrol.

Storm watched her go. Drifts of snow hemmed the trail, even though the sky was hardly visibly.

“No wonder ThunderClan wants Sunningrocks,” Storm muttered to himself. “They must never see the sun here.” He was relieved when they broke out of the forest.

Ahead, the patrol was stopping. The land sloped away at Storm's feet, opening into a wide valley. In the middle, four great oak trees stood guard around a clearing.

Fourtrees.

Brightsky stopped at the crest of the slope. “We’re the last to arrive.”

“But it’s so quiet,” Petaldust whispered.

Storm narrowed his eyes. Countless figures swarmed like ants between the four oaks and around a huge boulder.

“They’ve already started,” Hailstar growled. He plunged down the slope, snow flying in his wake. Owlfur and Shellheart followed, Beetlenose and Mudfur on their heels.

“Come on!” Oakheart raced after them.

Storm hesitated.

Cedarpelt stopped beside him. “Are you ready?”

Energy fizzed through him. “Let’s go!” Storm leaped down the slope, catching up beneath a gigantic oak. He stared up through the branches, eyes wide. It was bigger than any tree in RiverClan territory. It was even bigger than ThunderClan’s trees. He felt dizzy. Did the branches touch the stars?

“Come on.” Hailstar pushed into the crowd.

Storm scanned the crowd. Oakheart slid into the gathering and disappeared as Hailstar climbed onto the Great Rock, where three other people waited.

Storm looked at Cedarpelt. “What should I do?”

“Follow me.” Cedarpelt pushed between two dark haired men.

The men parted to let his pass.

Storm had never seen so many people in one place. Where were his Clanmates? His heart lurched as he noticed Reedfeather. The WindClan deputy sat under the Great Rock with the other deputies.

“Watch out!” A young dark haired girl jumped out of the way as Storm bumped into her. “You nearly knocked me over!” she growled. Catching sight of his face, her jaw dropped open in shock.

For the first time in months, Storm remembered his twisted jaw. He blushed deeply as she stared at him. “Hi,” he greeted softly. “I’m Storm.”

“Just Storm?”

Her blue eyes were wide. He was just about the age of a warrior. It must be strange that he didn’t have his full name yet. “My mother once tried to change my name to Crooked,” he said.

She was still staring at him.

He swallowed back irritation. Were all ThunderClan members this rude?

“If my leg goes the same way, Hailstar might consider it,” he said.

The girl shifted awkwardly. “Sorry!” Guilt suddenly sparked in her eyes. “You just surprised me.”

Storm lifted his chin. “I guess I should get used to it, until everyone gets used to me.” Why bother being upset when he couldn’t change it. “So, what’s your name?”

“Blue.”

Storm looked her up and down. “You don’t look very blue.”

She giggled. “I was named after my eyes.” She lifted up her dark cloak. “This is blue, but it doesn’t look like it at night.”

Storm glanced around the Clans. “Is this your first Gathering?”

Blue shook her head.

“So you know what we’re supposed to do?” he asked. “What do the leaders talk about?”

“If you listen you might find out!” Cedarpelt snapped.

Storm sat down beside Blue. “Which one is Pinestar?”

Blue pointed to a large man with auburn hair. Storm recognized him from Sunningrocks. The ThunderClan leader’s green eyes shone in the moonlight.

“How come you’ve never been here before?” Blue asked curiously. “You must be older than me.”

“I was apprenticed late,” Storm whispered. “Because of my jaw. But I’m better now. And bigger.”

Blue smiled, her eyes warm.

“Hush!” a pretty blonde woman scolded them. “The leaders are speaking.”

“Sorry.” Storm waited for her to sit back. “Which one’s Heatherstar?” he whispered to Blue.

“The woman. Cedarstar’s beside her.” Blue pointed to a small group of people gathered by the Great Rock. Brambleberry sat with them. Storm guessed they must be the healers. “That’s Goosefeahter, our healer.”

Storm blinked. It was the same old man who’d chased him onto the stepping stones. He scowled. If that rat hadn’t chased him, he’d be a warrior by now.

Blue interrupted his thoughts. “The woman with blonde hair is Sagewhisker, from ShadowClan.” She shuddered, pointing to the man beside Sagewhisker. “That’s Hawkheart.”

“You don’t like him?”

“He killed my mother.”

Storm blinked. At least Rainflower was still alive. Without thinking, he wrapped an arm around Blue to comfort her. “Who are the deputies?”

A man in front of them turned to glare. “Hush!” he growled.

Storm rolled his eyes as Blue giggled. Storm turned to watch the leaders. The Great Rock was sunk deep into the earth.

Heatherstar stood at the edge. “We’ve restocked our medicine supplies.” Her eyes flashed at Pinestar. “And all our elders and children have recovered from being unprovokedly attacked by ThunderClan.”

“We didn’t hurt any elders or children!” A ThunderClan man shouted.

“Or stole any,” Ottersplash murmured harshly, staring at Reedfeather.

A WindClan man snapped his head around to glare at Ottersplash. She met his gaze, her chin high. Owlfur scooted through the crowd to sit beside her.

“Calm down,” Cedarpelt warned. “Don’t forget about the truce.”

Owlfur narrowed his eyes. “Like Hailstar forgot about Willow and Gray?”

“It’s a good thing Fallowtail’s not here,” Beetlenose whispered.

Storm’s hand instinctively went over his head, hovering over his spear. Tension was rising into the air. Blue tensed, staring at the leaders on the rock.

“Great StarClan! It’s cold!” Storm leaned against Blue, hoping to distract her. She flinched, then relaxed.

Pinestar stepped forward. “ThunderClan is thriving despite the snow.”

Hailstar came forward next. He shot a warning glance to each of his warriors. “RiverClan has been free from any trouble since the snow came.”

“Except that kid from town,” Ottersplash murmured.

“He won’t be back for awhile,” Owlfur added.

Storm laughed. “That’ll teach them to slide on the ice.”

Blue gasped. “Did someone fall in?”

“They were fine,” Storm reassured her. “It was just some stupid kid. Even RiverClan newborns know to stay off the ice unless an adult tests it first.”

“Fishing is good, despite the ice,” Hailstar said. He scanned the clearing. “And we have a new warrior. Welcome, Oakheart!” WindClan cheered. ShadowClan’s voices soon joined them.

“That’s my brother,” Storm told Blue.

She blinked. “Who?”

“Oakheart,” Storm explained. “He’s my little brother.”

Blue stretched to get a better look. “If he’s younger than you, why are you still an apprentice?”

“I told you, I was apprenticed late.” Storm ignore the comment. “Oakheart is great. He caught a fish on his first day as an apprentice. He says when he becomes leader, he’ll make me deputy.”

“I have a sister,” Blue said. She pointed to a young girl with snowy blonde hair. “She’s a great hunter, too.”

“Maybe if they both become leader we could be deputies together,” Storm said politely.

Blue frowned. “Deputy? I’m going farther than that. I want to be leader.”

Storm agreed.

“Hush!” a ThunderClan woman growled. “How many times do we have to tell you?”

“Sorry.” Blue ducked her head.

Storm turned back to the Great Rock. Cedarstar was speaking. “I’m sad to announce our deputy, Stonetooth, is moving to the elder’s hut.”

A thin man with black hair, standing at the foot of the rock, nodded solemnly as his Clan called his name.

“He doesn’t look that old,” Blue whispered.

The man had a snaggled tooth at the front of his mouth. “No,” Storm said. “Just a bit long-toothed.”

Blue elbowed him, trying not to laugh. “He can’t help it.”

“Raggedpelt will take his place,” Cedarpelt went on.

A man with dark brown haired stalked through the crowd and into the pool of moonlight below the rock.

As the leaders climbed down from the Great Rock, he watched the Clans melting into their separate groups.

“Come on.” Cedarpelt beckoned for him. “Let’s go. It’s too cold to stay much longer.” He threw a look at WindClan as they climbed the other side of the hollow, heading to the moors. “And I don’t think anyone wants to sit and chat tonight.”

Storm followed his mentor. “Are the Clans always this angry with each other?”

Cedarpelt was frowning. “Winter brings hunger, and hunger makes tempers short.”

“What did you think?”

Oakheart’s voice made him jump.

Storm smiled as his brother fell in beside him. “It was great,” he replied. “I met a ThunderClan apprentice. She wants to be leader.”

“Every apprentice wants to be leader,” Oakheart answered airily.

“Does that mean you’ve changed your mind about wanting to be leader?” Storm teased.

“Of course not!” Oakheart quickened his pace, following his Clanmates up the slope. “Come on! I’ll race you back to camp!”

Chapter Text

Storm blinked his eyes open. He stared into the forest, surprised that he was dreaming. He’d been so energized after the Gathering, he’d spent hours staring through the small cracks in the huts at the snowy clearing.

“So you’ve moved among the other Clans,” Mapleshade said through the mist. She slid out from the shadows. “What did you think?”

Storm smiled. “It was great! I met a ThunderClan apprentice. She was really nice.”

Mapleshade’s eyes blazed. “No one from any other Clan is nice!”

“She was just a little girl,” Storm said. “I wonder what it’s like to live in a forest.”

Mapleshade took a few steps forward until her nose was nearly brushing his. “RiverClan is the only Clan you are to care about! The other Clans are dust for you to walk on. Did you forget your promise?”

Storm shook his head. “Of course not,” he said. “I’ll always put my Clan above everything.”

“Then start practicing!” She backed away. “Left hook!”

Storm raised his fists and punched at the air.

“Keep your eyes forward!” Mapleshade growled as he glanced at her.

Storm gritted his teeth and punched again. Each time, the punch was even more powerful as he got into the rhythm. This was the training it would take to become leader. He wondered if Blue was being trained by StarClan. Was Oakheart?

Was this how leaders were truly chosen?

Chapter Text

“Let all those old enough to swim gather to hear my words!”

Storm raised his head, tearing his spear out of the shallow water near the river bed. He’d been trying to skewer fish. With the river frozen, it was harder to fish in the main channels. Snow flumped down from bulrushes as he pushed through the reeds and into the clearing.

He wondered what Hailstar wanted. The sun was sinking, turning the sky a pale pink. Storm ached all over, sore from training with Mapleshade all night and hunting birds with Cedarpelt all day. At least the cold weather was starting to dwindle. It had been two weeks since the Gathering and the air was growing warm once more. The river would be flowing again soon.

Oakheart came to meet him. “There you are!”

“What’s going on.” Storm glanced at Hailstar. The RiverClan leader stood in the clearing, eyes glittering and arms crossed. Shellheart stood beside him, glancing around as the Clan gathered.

Oakheart lowered his voice. “I don’t know. Hailstar’s been talking with Shellheart, Rippleclaw and Mudfur all day.”

Rippleclaw and Mudfur sat at the side of the clearing. Timberfur walked over to join them.

“They even had Brambleberry there for a while,” Oakheart whispered.

“Is someone sick?”

Oakheart shrugged. “I heard Birdsong and Brightsky have colds, but that’s it.”

Beetlenose walked over from the willow tree. Petaldust pushed past him, stopping beside Storm. “What’s going on?”

Beetlenose caught up. “Maybe he’s finally going to rename Storm as Crooked.”

Storm glared at him. “Then he’d have to rename you to Uglynose.”

Voleclaw darted out of his hut. “Did I miss anything?”

“Not yet,” Petaldust reassured him.

Troutclaw and Tanglewhisker had reached the clearing. Birdsong peered out from the elder’s hut, eyes dull with fever. Huts rattled as Rainflower and Echomist emerged. Lakeshine, Softwing and Shimmerpelt clustered together at the edge of the clearing. Piketooth, Owlfur and Ottersplash were murmured expectantly. Cedarpelt emerged from the reed bed to sit with Whitefang.

Brambleberry was peeking into Fallowtail’s hut. “Come on,” she coaxed. “RiverClan needs all its warriors.

Fallowtail poked her head out. “What’s going on?”

“Come on.” Brambleberry took her arm and guided her into the clearing.

“We all saw ThunderClan at the Gathering,” the RiverClan leader began. “Winter has left them hungry and thin. They look weak, while we are strong. At sunset, the treaty ends. We will take back Sunningrocks for good!”

Owlfur blinked. “How? Are we going to move the markers?”

“More than that,” Hailstar said. “The only markers we'll leave will be ThunderClan’s blood!”

“About time!” Ottersplash called.

Whitefang cheered. “I’ll gut any ThunderClan warrior I get my hands on!”

Hailstar nodded. “ThunderClan won’t forget this day.”

“What’s the plan?” Lakeshine asked.

“A battle patrol will occupy Sunningrocks and wait for ThunderClan.”

“What if they don’t come?” Shimmerpelt said.

“They’ll come.” Rippleclaw stepped forward. “They’ll want to seem tough by accepting our challenge, but they’re weak.”

Timberfur nodded in agreement. “There’s no way we can lose.”

“Victory will be ours!” Hailstar’s eyes blazed. “We’re put up with ThunderClan’s arrogance long enough. Sunningrocks belongs to us.”

The Clan cheered.

“I’m gonna bring home a ThunderClan cloak!” Beetlenose announced.

Petaldust looked nervous. “We’ve never been in a real battle before.”

“But we’ve trained hard,” Storm reminded her. “We know what to do.”

Petaldust lifted her chin. “I’ll fight to the death if I have to.”

Cedarpelt turned to look at them over his shoulder. “Don’t talk like that. You shouldn’t throw away your life for a border dispute.”

Whitefang laughed. “I remember my first battle,” he sighed. “I was ready to take on every member of WindClan.”

“Were you scared?” Petaldust’s eyes were wide.

“Of course!” Whitefang said. “I’m not stupid. Battles are dangerous.”

Cedarpelt nodded. “As long as you remember your training, you’ll be safe.”

“Shellheart,” Hailstar called. “Call together those who will join the battle patrol.”

Shellheart lifted his head. “Timberfur, Rippleclaw, Owlfur, Ottersplash.”

The warriors came forward at their names. Storm leaned forward.

“Oakheart, Beetlenose, Petaldust, Whitefang, Shimmerpelt, Softwing.”

Oakheart glanced at Storm as he walked away.

“Piketooth, Rainflower, Voleclaw, Cedarpelt and Storm.”

Storm jumped up excitedly and darted after Cedarpelt.

“Wait!” Brambleberry blocked his path. “You mustn’t fight!” The healers eyes were round.

“Why?” Storm stared at her, bewildered. “I’m an apprentice now. I’m big and strong. I’m bigger than Beetlenose!”

She shook her head. “Please stay in camp.”

“I’m not passing up this opportunity.”

The battle patrol was already heading out of camp.

Brambleberry frowned deeply.

Storm sighed. “You don’t have to worry about me anymore. I’m ready for this. I won’t be left behind.”

He had to go. He’d promised Mapleshade he’d fight for his Clan. This was his chance to prove he’d make a great leader. He pushed past Brambleberry and out of camp.

Outside, the patrol was hurrying along the shore. Storm hopped down onto the bank and saw them heading onto the ice. He caught up as they crossed the frozen river, walking slowly so they didn’t slip. They stopped at the foot of Sunningrocks.

“Ready?” Hailstar turned to the patrol, eyes dark.

“Ready,” Shellheart replied.

Storm’s stomach was tight. His hand hovered over his spear as his Clanmates started to climb the rocks.

Cedarpelt put a hand on his shoulder. “Be careful and remember what I taught you.”

Storm nodded, hoping Mapleshade was watching, too.

“Good luck.” Cedarpelt jumped up to get a grip on the rock.

Storm reached up and grabbed at a crack in the rock. He pulled himself up, swinging a leg to catch on the edge and rolling onto the top. The fiery glare of the setting sun lit the stone, making it glow. Beyond Sunningrocks was a dark and silent forest. Storm stood up with his Clanmates, who murmured restlessly to each other.

Rainflower caught his eye. “I told Oakheart to keep an eye on you.”

“No need.” Storm avoided her gaze. He didn’t want her coldness to throw him off. Then he stiffened as a bush trembled near the trees.

Hailstar nodded to Shellheart. “Get everyone prepared.” His gaze swept over Beetlenose, Petaldust and Voleclaw. “This is your first battle.” He glanced at Oakheart and Storm. “Don’t take any chances. Everyone already knows you are strong and capable warriors. There is no need for lives to be lost over a border battle.”

Shellheart gestured for the patrol to spread out along the rock. Storm backed into place between Oakheart and Shimmerpelt. He glanced down the line, pride making his heart soar. The warriors stood together, eyes narrowed. Hailstar walked up the line, taking his place in the middle and glaring into the shadowy trees. Storm listened closely, hearing footsteps approaching.

Oakheart drew his sickle. “Good luck, Storm.”

The footsteps grew louder. Storm swallowed as the ThunderClan patrol broke out of the trees, blades ready.

Hailstar stepped forward. “The treaty is off!” he shouted. “Sunningrocks belongs to RiverClan!”

Pinestar walked onto the rock. “Never. ThunderClan, attack!”

As ThunderClan surged forward, Pinestar lunged at Hailstar. The two leaders rolled across the stone. Oakheart dove forward into the mass of warriors, turning on a black haired man, shouting with fury. Storm was shocked by the screams of rage. He spun around as his Clanmates tumbled into combat. Confused and scared, he didn’t know what to do.

Then a fist slammed into his hip. He turned to meet a strike to his face.

He turned to face the man who had attacked him. Storm caught his fist this time and delivered a left hook with so much force it sent the man backward. Staggering, Storm felt the rock disappear from beneath him. With a yelp, he fell, tumbling down the side of Sunningrocks and landing in the snow.

Anger pulsed through him. He looked up the sheer rock face. The pink sky arched above, calm over the loud battle. He darted around the rock, skidding around the corner to find himself face to face with a ThunderClan apprentice.

An enemy.

But he stumbled to a halt when he recognized her face.

“Thank StarClan,” Blue sighed in relief.

“You’re on RiverClan territory!” Storm put his fists up, eyes narrowed. The other Clans were nothing but dust. “We’re enemies.”

Blue blinked in surprise.

Storm knocked her into the snow. Before she could get back up, he grabbed her shoulders and slammed his knee into her spine. She screamed and twisted, trying to grab at his face. Storm yelped as she nailed a hit on his jaw. He kicked her away, pain searing his face. Blue tumbled toward the icy river, before righting herself and racing back through the snow toward him.

She crashed into him with a shout of rage. Shocked, he staggered. Blue drew her sword, slashing at his ankles.

Energy shot through Storm like a bolt of lightning. He grabbed his spear and blocked her slashing.

Panic lit her eyes and she swung again. Storm blocked each blow easily. She staggered, off balance and Storm hit her bluntly in the stomach. She caught his nose with a punch but he hit back, batting at the side of her head.

A shout sounded behind them.

“Snow!” Blue called to her sister.

Storm’s eyes widened as Snow plunged forward and to stand with her sister. Fielding blows from four hands, Storm fought harder. But the blows kept coming, relentless and fast. His arms started to weaken. His muscles screamed for rest. Hits came to his face, his shoulders and his stomach. The flurry was too fast for him to beat. He started to back away, slipping in the snow.

Storm tried to force his way between the girls, but Snow darted forward. Pain coursed through his stomach as he landed an even blow. A blade sliced his shoulder. Blue had jumped onto his back. Panic rising, he tried to shake her off while escaping from Snow. But Snow knocked out his legs. Tumbling, Storm shouted with rage. Blue clung to him like a burr. Agony coursed through him. Finally knocking Blue off, he dove for the frozen river and fled onto the ice. He raced for the safety of RiverClan territory.

A shout split the air. “Forward, ThunderClan!”

Blue and Snow exchanged an excited glance. They pressed against the rock as RiverClan warriors plunged down the cliff and charged across the river. Storm watched in shock as Hailstar raced past him, leaving drops of blood in his trail. Ottersplash and Shimmerpelt followed.

RiverClan was retreating.

Shellheart, Rippleclaw and Timberfur were stabbing at the ice on the far side of the river, smashing it into pieces. They broke open a channel of icy water and swam to the far shore. ThunderClan slid down the rocks in pursuit, stumbling to a halt at the edge of the racing water.

“Cowards!” Adderfang shouted as Shellheart dove after his Clanmates.

“Storm?” Shellheart went straight toward him. “Are you okay?”

Storm raised his chin. “I’m fine.”

Shellheart frowned. “You must have fought like a warrior.” He wiped a small blood trail from Storm’s cheek. “Come on. You’ll need to see Brambleberry.”

“You ordered us to retreat!” Rippleclaw stared at Shellheart, dumbfounded. “Why?”

Shellheart walked around his Clanmates, checking their injuries, handing out praise and encouragement. Dawn colored the sky and birds were beginning to sing.

“We didn’t have a choice,” Shellheart said.

In the camp, the injured warriors gathered so Brambleberry could check their wounds. No one had been hurt badly, aside from Hailstar, who had disappeared into the healer’s hut. His wounds had been deep.

“We were winning!” Lakeshine said.

Whitefang sighed. “If only Stormtail hadn’t brought a second patrol-”

Rippleclaw cut him off. “Why didn’t Hailstar think of that?”

“He can’t see the future,” Shellheart snapped.

“But he’s leader,” Timberfur growled. “Leaders should know how to win battles.”

“Shut up!” Petaldust cried. “My father might lose a blessing!”

Storm stood up, his wounds burning.

Oakheart looked up. “Where are you doing?”

“I’m gonna get Brambleberry something to eat.” He wanted to see how Hailstar was doing. Petaldust and Voleclaw had been beside themselves with worry for their father. Beetlenose had disappeared into his hut as soon as they’d gotten home. “She’s been so busy, she must be hungry.”

“But we don’t have any food,” Oakheart pointed out.

“I’ll find some minnows.” He walked over to the reed bed. The ice creaked beneath his feet. It would melt in a few days. He quickly caught a few minnows. Back on shore, he crossed the clearing.

Rainflower was cleaning her wounds. She looked up as he passed. “Well done, Storm,” she said, then turned back to wipe a cut with a wet rag.

Storm’s mouth dropped in surprise. Rainflower had praised him! His heart lifted. He ducked into Brambleberry’s hut. “How is he?”

Hailstar lay on his back in a bed near the wall. Echomist sat beside him, combing her fingers through his hair.

“The bleeding has stopped,” Brambleberry murmured. “But he lost a lot of blood.”

Echomist stiffened. “He’s not breathing!”

Brambleberry darted to the bed and pressed her ear to Hailstar’s chest. She sat up slowly, then sighed in relief as Hailstar took a shuddering gasp. “He lost a blessing,” she said softly.

Echomist’s eyes glistened. “Then he’s on his last.”

Brambleberry rubbed the woman’s back. “I’m afraid so.” She glanced at Storm. “You should go.”

Storm nodded and headed for the entrance.

“Thanks for the fish,” Brambleberry called.

Storm emerged into the clearing. Rainflower was limping toward her hut. Oakheart was resting his head in his hands. Shimmerpelt was dipping a pot into the reed bed, gathering ice cold water. None of them knew their leader had lost a blessing, and it wasn’t Storm’s place to tell them.

He wish he’d fought harder. Mapleshade would never think he was worthy of becoming leader if he couldn’t even beat a little girl! Next time, he’d fight like a lion.

He wouldn’t let his Clan down again.

Chapter Text

Storm blinked his eyes open, disturbed by a sound he couldn’t place. He sat up and yawned. The apprentice’s hut was dark. He could hardly see the walls. He stood up and slipped into the clearing, looking up at the sky. The moon was hardly more than a sliver. Dawn light creeped over the distant moorland. The camp was muddy now that the snow had thawed. The reeds drooped and moss was growing on the rocks again. It squelched as Storm walked over to the reed bed. He peered over the stiff stems. A fresh set of footsteps led toward the entrance to camp. Storm paused to focus.

Hailstar and Timberfur had been by here recently. So had Ottersplash, Owlfur and Rippleclaw.

Storm wondered if he should follow. Suddenly, a shout split the air. Storm spun around. It had come from the other side of the river.

He could hear Ottersplash shouting.

Storm darted across the clearing and climbed up the willow trees. He scooted along the jutting branch until he was above the reeds. He looked up the river to the distant bank. Ottersplash and Owlfur were racing down the slope from WindClan territory. Rippleclaw and Timberfur followed. They held dark shapes close to their chests. Storm’s heart skipped a beat.

“The twins!” Storm shouted into camp. “Rippleclaw and Timberfur have the twins!”

Hailstar followed them, a WindClan warrior on his heels. Reedfeather! Four warriors sped after him. Timberfur and Rippleclaw were nearing the river.

Below the willow, the Clan was stirring.

“What’s happening?”

“Who’s shouting?”

“What’s this about the twins?”

Footsteps squelched through the wet moss. Oakheart joined him on the branch. It dipped under their weight. “What’s going on?”

“Look!” Storm pointed at the fleeing patrol.

“To the river!” Hailstar shouted. Timberfur and Rippleclaw leaped into the shallows.

Willow cried out. “It’s cold!”

Hailstar slowed and turned to face Reedfeather. The WindClan warrior stopped. “You can’t steal my daughters!”

Hailstar glanced over his shoulder, his eyes lit with triumph. “We already have!”

Reedfeather struck the RiverClan leader with a blow so fierce it sent him crashing to the ground. He charged at the shore, wading in. Ottersplash and Owlfur turned to meet their pursuers with a flurry of punches. Knocking one WindClan warrior back, Owlfur spun around and sent another floundering with a mighty blow. Ottersplash jumped on a dark haired man, sending him lurching off balance. As their Clanmates held off WindClan, Rippleclaw and Timberfur plunged toward RiverClan territory, helping Willow and Gray swim through the water.

Reedfeather stared after the RiverClan warrior as they pushed his daughters onto the marshy bank. His Clanmates struggled back onto WindClan land. “We can’t give up!” he shouted in dismay. “Those are my daughters!” He whirled around and jumped into the river. “Give them back!”

Behind him, Hailstar was heaving himself up. He struggled to his feet and chased after Reedfeather. With a grunt, he tackled the WindClan deputy into the water.

As Reedfeather surfaced, spluttering, Hailstar grabbed his head, forcing him back under the water. The other WindClan warriors backed away from the slope, eyes wide.

Bubbles rose around Hailstar’s arms as Reedfeather fought for his life.

“Hailstar, stop!” Owlfur splashed over to his leader. “You’ll kill him!”

Hailstar gazed at his Clanmates, dazed. He released the deputy and staggered back. Owlfur tugged Reedfeather out of the river and onto WindClan territory.

Storm climbed down from the willow tree to meet the twins.

“Get blankets!” Rippleclaw shouted as more of RiverClan came to meet them. “We need to get these two warm.”

“Is he dead?” Willow was staring at her father.

Suddenly, Reedfeather coughed, twisting to throw up the river water.

“He’s alive!” Willow’s eyes shone. “Is he going to take us back?”

“Never!” Fallowtail exploded out of the reeds. She skidded to a stop, staring at her daughters. “You’ve gotten so big!” Her voice cracked.

“Mama!” Gray pushed away from Timberfur and raced to her mother, diving into her arms.

Fallowtail laughed happily, tears of joy rising into her eyes. Willow rushed to join her. On the far shore, the WindClan warriors were helping Reedfeather up the slope.

Owlfur slid into the water and swam home. Hailstar followed. Storm shivered. Hailstar had been prepared to kill Reedfeather. Not out of self defense, but for his Clan. Hailstar truly believed the twins belonged in RiverClan.

Storm stood tall. One day, he’d show RiverClan that he could fight like that, as well.

Chapter Text

“Willow! Gray!”

The cheers of the Clan rang through the golden morning air as they welcomed the new apprentices. Fallowtail called the loudest, blue eyes wet with emotion.

Storm was excited to have someone else in the hut again.

Willow stood in the center of the clearing, brown eyes shining as Owlfur stepped up beside her. Brightsky was cooing proudly over her new apprentice, Gray.

Hailstar stepped back, chin high. “WindClan’s loss is our gain!”

In the five years since RiverClan had taken back the twins, a lot had changed in the Clan. They had left Sunningrocks alone for the duration, mostly avoiding the border. No one wanted to talk about their shameful defeat. Both Lakeshine and Shimmerpelt had moved into the nursery, heavy with unborn children. Meanwhile, spring was promising new life. The willow tree was covered in soft green buds. The reeds had lifted and were thick with growth. The river was slowly starting to lose its chill.

“What are we going to do first?” Willow asked Owlfur.

Owlfur glanced at Cedarpelt.

“What’s going on?” Storm looked at his own mentor.

“We’re going to the Moonstone,” Cedarpelt told him. “I probably should have taken you sooner, but I thought you’d like to go with other apprentices.”

Although Storm was grateful, he was also a bit annoyed. He was well past the age when apprentices became warriors. Didn’t Cedarpelt know how impatient he’d been to continue on with his life?

But excitement was pushing away that irritation. The Moonstone!

Gray’s eyes widened. “We’re going, too?”

Cedarpelt nodded.

“Really?” Willow seemed anxiously. “Then we’ll have to travel through WindClan territory. What if they try to steal us back?”

Storm cocked his head, surprised. “Would you let them?”

“Of course not!” Willow growled.

“WindClan follows the warrior code,” Gray said. “They wouldn’t stop us from traveling to the Moonstone.” She and Willow exchanged a knowing glance. Although they’d been happy to return to RiverClan, they never criticized WindClan and took any opportunity to defend their father’s Clan.

Beetlenose often teased them for it, calling them rabbit-breath and Wind-shrews. Storm would always make him stop, angry for his bullying. Although the twins didn’t give him a reaction, Storm knew it bothered them.

He knew how they felt. It had took him a long time to gain his Clanmates’ respect and trust when he’d come back from the farm.

Now that they were apprentices, they could show everyone how much they loved being apart of RiverClan.

“When are we leaving?” Storm asked Cedarpelt.

“Go see Brambleberry,” Cedarpelt ordered. “She has traveling herbs for her.”

Gray stuck out her tongue.

“You’ll be thankful for them by noon,” Owlfur said. “We have a long way to go.”

Storm hurried to Brambleberry’s hut, but Willow darted ahead of him and made it there first. Three piles of herbs had already been laid out for them.

Brambleberry was sorting out the stale herbs from her supplies. “I’m glad it’s finally spring,” she muttered. “I hardly have anything good left.”

Storm picked up one of the leaves in the herb piles. It smelled sour. “Do we swallow these?”

“Yep.” Brambleberry threw a handful of shriveled mallow on the floor. “They won’t kick in until you digest them.”

Storm gulped down the herbs, shuddering at the bitter taste.

Gray gagged as she swallowed hers.

Willow winced. “How far away is the Moonstone?” she asked Brambleberry.

“You’ll be there by nightfall if you keep up a steady pace.” Brambleberry shrugged. “The journey’s not hard, just long. The hardest part will be Mothermouth. It’s a dark tunnel that leads to the Moonstone.” She looked up. “Keep close to your mentors.”

“What does the Moonstone look like?” Willow asked.

“Is StarClan friendly?” Gray asked. “Even the warriors who were in other Clans?”

“The Moonstone is beautiful.” Brambleberry sighed wistfully. “StarClan is wise. Listen carefully to what they tell you.” She looked at Storm. “Let them guide you to the right path.”

Before Storm could say anything, she began shooing them out.

“Hurry up. You need to get there by midnight.”

“Why?” Gray asked.

“You’ll see.” With a knowing smile, Brambleberry turned back to her herbs.

Cedarpelt, Brghtsky and Owlfur were waiting by the entrance. Storm hurried to join them. “Dn’t you need herbs?”

“We had some earlier,” Brightsky explained.

Owlfur nodded to Willow. “Are you ready?”

“Yes.” Her voice was small and squeaky. She was overwhelmed by the idea of traveling so far on her first day as an apprentice.

Storm felt a surge of excitement. He’d traveled half of this journey before, and this time he wouldn’t have to do it alone. And now, finally, he could meet the rest of StarClan.

Chapter Text

They kept close to the edge of WindClan territory, wary of patrols.

“WindClan won’t disrupt us, I’m sure,” Cedarpelt said. “But there’s no need to cause drama by marching these two right past their camp.” He gestured to the twins.

Storm was relieved when they reached the border. Beyond was the rest of the world. The wide valley between the moor and Highstones was green with new growth. The sun warmed Storm’s skin as they walked along the bushes that bordered town.

Storm could see a golden mass in the distance and knew it must be Maurice’s cornfield. He wondered if the children were out playing right now.

Willow was staring at him. “It must be strange, coming back after so many years.”

“Yeah, it is.”

She slowed to walk with him. “Are you thinking about Maurice?”

“Were you thinking about Reedfeather when we were traveling across the moor?” he countered.

She looked away. “Is there something wrong with that?”

Storm sighed. “You can care about people outside your Clan and still be loyal.”

“Storm!” A loud voice made them both turn.

A young girl with black hair stood on the track, one hand in the air waving back and forth.

“Chloe?” Storm gasped.

The young girl walked down the track. She was taller than Willow. “I didn’t think you’d come back!”

“We’re going to the Moonstone,” Storm explained.

Cedarpelt’s rumbly voice came from behind them. “What’s going on?”

Storm whirled around, heart lurching. “This is Chloe. I met her when I...when I lived on the farm.”

Cedarpelt glowered at him.

“Wow!” Chloe gasped. “A real warrior!” She stared at Cedarpelt, her green eyes wide. “You’re so muscular.”

Cedarpelt glared at her.

Storm stepped between them and met Cedarpelt’s gaze. “She’s no more than a kid. She won’t hurt us.”

Cedarpelt didn’t seem convinced. “Don’t be long.” He stalked back to the others up the track. “Leave them alone, Willow! It’s bad enough having one apprentice hanging out with farmers.”

Storm ignored him. “How are you? How’s your family?”

“Great!” Chloe said, then paused. “Dorian’s married now. He moved out with his own family. Mom and dad were sad, but they’re fine. What about you? Are you a warrior yet?”

Storm shook his head. “Not yet. But I’m an apprentice now.”

Chloe blinked. “Is that good?”

“It’s great!”

“Hurry up!” Cedarpelt called.

“I’d better go.” Storm felt a tug on his chest. He wished he could go visit the farm family.

“I’ll tell mom and dad I saw you,” Chloe promised. “They’ll be happy to know you’re okay.”

“Come on!” Cedarpelt shouted again.

Storm backed away. “It was good to see you.”

“Same to you!” She waved farewell as Storm turned to join his Clanmates.

“Is everything alright?” Willow whispered.

Storm nodded, keeping an eye on his mentor. Cedarpelt couldn’t tell him who to be friends with. Chloe and her family had made him feel wanted when his Clanmates hadn’t. He’d never forget that.

Highstones reared above them, the setting sun dripping onto its peaks. The earth was dark here, the course grass giving way to bare, rocky soil.

“Look!” Willow pointed upward.

Storm shielded his eyes with one hand. As the sun disappeared, the shadowed slope lightened and he could make out a square black hole beneath a stone archway.

Gray gasped. “Is that Mothermouth?”

“Yes, it is.” Owlfur sat down on a wide, smooth stone. “But we’ll have to wait until midnight.”

“I’m hungry,” Willow complained.

Brightsky shook her head. “We can’t eat before we visit the Moonstone. It wouldn’t be wise.”

As the moon rose into the sky, Cedarpelt stood up. “We should go.” He walked up the slope toward Mothermouth. Owlfur fell in behind.

Brightsky stood. “Come on.”

Willow’s eyes were sparkling. “Are you excited?” she asked Storm.

Storm nodded, climbing up the steep stone slope. His heart quickened. As he neared the shadowy entrance, he shivered. Cold air whirled out of the tunnel.

Cedarpelt had paused while the others clustered around him. “Ready?” Everyone nodded. “Stay close.” He disappeared into the shadows.

Storm followed. The tunnel sloped down, so cold it gripped his bones. This air had never felt the sun. Storm gave up trying to see anything a few lengths into the tunnel. He could hear Brightsky’s footsteps behind him. His shoulder hit stone and he veered away, careful of the opposite wall. The tunnel bent and twisted.

Suddenly, the air became fresh. Storm took in a deep breath. There must be a hole somewhere close. “Where are we?”

“We’re in the Moonstone’s cave.” Cedarpelt stopped ahead of him and guided Storm forward. A distant drip echoed through the rock.

“Where’s the Moonstone?” Willow’s voice echoed off the walls.

Suddenly, a blinding flash of light hit up the cave. Storm instinctively ducked down and covered his head.

“Wow!” Gray gasped.

Storm blinked his eyes open. A huge rock loomed over him, glittering with the light of a thousand stars.

In the cold light reflecting from the stone, he could make out the shadowy edges of a cavern. The Moonstone rose from the middle of the floor, taller than any man. Far above was an opening in the roof that revealed the sky. The moon was casting a beam of light through the hole and onto the Moonstone, making it sparkle.

Cedarpelt walked forward and turned to lean against the stone. Brightsky did the same, sliding to the floor.

“Come on.” Owlfur beckoned the apprentices forward.

Storm went first, giving the twins courage to follow. He sat down beside Cedarpelt and touched the stone.

The world shifted underneath him. Storm cried out, finding himself in the forest where he trained with Mapleshade. It wasn’t in the usual clearing, however. The muddy ground sloped and the trees were tightly packed toward.

“Welcome.” Mapleshade stepped out of the trees.

“Where’s StarClan?” Hope fluttered through Storm’s chest as he scanned the forest.

“Why don’t you come see?” Mapleshade invited.

Storm snapped his head around to look at her. “You mean it?”

Mapleshade nodded. “Just stay close to me.”

Storm followed her into the forest, eyes wide. “Is this really StarClan’s territory?” He frowned. Did they hunt anything? All he could smell was musky water.

“This is where the greatest of warriors come when they die.” Mapleshade walked up the slope “And if you keep your promise, this is where you’ll reside one day.”

A shadow moved between the trees at the corner of Storm’s vision. He turned to see someone moving in the half-light. Then he saw another figure, and another. Slowly, he realized people were filling the shadows, walking through the gloom. Storm narrowed his eyes. This wasn’t how he imagined StarClan.

Suddenly, a man with a shaggy gray beard ambled out of the shadows toward them.

“Leave us alone.” Mapleshade stepped between Storm and the man.

Storm blinked in surprise, recognizing Goosefeather. Had the healer recently died?

Goosefeather stood his ground. “Is this a newcomer?” he growled.

Mapleshade glared at him. She opened her mouth to speak, then glanced at Storm, seeming to think better of it.

Just as Storm was about to ask what was going on, he jolted awake.

The cave was dark. The moon had passed and left the Moonstone as nothing but a dull stone.

Storm stood up stiffly. Dawn light was seeping through the hole. Gray and Brightsky were stirring beside him. Cedarpelt was stretching while Owlfur had already been up, standing by the tunnel entrance. Willow was still asleep peacefully.

Storm looked at each of them in turn, wondering what visions they’d had.

Chapter Text

“How was your trip to the Moonstone?”

Storm looked up as Hailstar stopped in front of him. He scrambled up. He felt well rested from sleep, but his limbs were sore. “It was great.” He wondered if Hailstar knew he was destined to become leader.

“Walk with me.” Hailstar led Storm out of camp and toward the willow grove.

“Is something wrong?”

“I just thought we should talk.” Hailstar stopped and sat down on a mossy log. Soft evening light filtered through the leaves. Bee buzzed sleepily through the flowers. “Are you enjoying your apprenticeship?” he asked.

Storm nodded. “It’s great!” He wondered if Hailstar had asked Oakheart and the others this same thing.

“Your journey to becoming a warrior has taken longer than most.”

“Six years,” Storm replied. “Plus being in the nursery for an extra two.”

He was on his twentieth year. Most apprentices were made warriors by the time they were eighteen.

“Are you jealous that your brother is already a warrior?”

“Jealous? Not really. Oakheart’s a great warrior, and I will be too.”

“Is that all you want?” Hailstar asked softly.

“What else is there? I want to look after my Clan. That’s more important than anything.”

“Really?” Hailstar blinked.

Storm nodded. “Of course!”

Hailstar looked away. “Brambleberry’s worried.”

“About what?” She didn’t have anything to do with his apprenticeship. She mixed herbs. She didn’t train warriors. “I’ll do whatever task you want. Any assessment. I’ll fight any battle to show I can be a great warrior.”

“I know you would.” Hailstar narrowed his eyes. “But there’s more to being a warrior than just courage and skill.”

“Is there anything I can do to prove myself?” Storm asked, trying to stomp down his irritation. What had Brambleberry told him?

Hailstar shook his head and stood up. “You can’t prove anything I don’t already know.” He turned and walked away.

Storm took a few steps back, then raced into camp and into the healer’s hut.

Brambleberry looked up from a poultice she was mixing. “Storm?”

“Hailstar doesn’t think I can be a warrior!” Storm snapped. “Did you tell him there was something wrong with me?”

Brambleberry wiped her hands on her skirt. “Of course not!”

“Then why are you worried about me?”

“I worry about all the apprentices.”

Storm glared at her. “Oh, really? Is Hailstar going to ask Willow if she’s jealous of Gray? Or if there’s more to being a warrior than honor and courage?”

Brambleberry stared at him helplessly.

“Exactly,” Storm growled. “So then what’s wrong with me? I always trusted you! I thought we were friends!” His stomach tightened. “Am I doing something wrong? You tried to stop me from fighting on Sunningrocks and warned me when I went to the Moonstone. Did you receive an omen?”

Brambleberry’s eyes flashed with fear.

“What is it?” Storm demanded. “What did you see?”

“You wouldn’t understand,” she said quickly. “You could be a great warrior. You just have to follow the right path.”

“Am I not following it now?” He stared at her. He trained day and night. He was being taught by StarClan. What more could she want? “You don’t know anything about me!” he snapped.

He turned and stalked out of the hut, barging past Gray, who was carrying a fish across the clearing. He raced out of camp, hurtling blindly along the shore. Why did he bother training so hard if everyone was going to doubt him?

He’d prove them wrong.

Chapter Text

The days were growing longer and warmer. The river was overflowing with fish and the Clan feasted every night. Shimmerpelt and Piketooth sat by the reedbed. Shimmerpelt’s stomach was swollen with an unborn baby, due within a month. Whitefang was eating by the fire pit. Cedarpelt and Lakeshine sat close, cooing over their newborn son, Frog. He was only a few days old.
Birdsong stretched as she exited her hut. “This would be a perfect day to sunbathe on Sunningrocks.” She looked wistfully over the reeds.

Softwing was stripping the scales from a bony trout. She called over to Brambleberry. “I’m making dinner. Do you want anything?”

“Thanks.” She settled beside Softwing to help.

Storm scowled at her.

Hailstar was lying in front of his hut with Echomist. He’d been watching Storm closely ever since their talk, coming to his trainings and patrols. It had pushed Storm to do better, to show Hailstar he was loyal.

A bear roared in the distance. It was becoming a familiar sound in RiverClan. The bear had moved into a small cave near the marsh.

Storm looked through the reed beds. “Are Willow and Gray back from training?”

“No yet.” Fallowtail walked to the reed bed to look out over the river. “Do you think they’re okay?”

Shellheart was sitting outside his hut. “They’re training at the beech copse. The bear won’t wander that far from its den.”

“Brightsky and Owlfur are with them, too.” Timberfur was sharing a meal with Rippleclaw. “They'll be fine.”

Storm stood up. “Why don’t we just hunt down the bear?”

Hailstar climbed to his feet.

“We could at least scare it off,” Storm said. “Softwing’s the fastest runner in the Clan. They could lure it out of its den and into the meadow. We’d be waiting for it in an ambush.”

“I might just work,” Oakheart said with a shrug.

“I like it.” Whitefang jumped up.

“Let’s try, then,” Hailstar said.

“Right now?” Cedarpelt blinked.

“Right now. Before dark.” Hailstar turned to Softwing. “Are you quick enough to outrun the bear?”

Softwing nodded.

“Good.” Hailstar glanced around the Clan. “I’ll lead the attack patrol. Shellheart, you follow Softwing. Keep her safe.”

Shellheart nodded. “She’s in good hands.”

Hailstar nodded. “Cedarpelt, Whitefang, Rippleclaw, Beetlenose, Oakhart, Ottersplash, Rainflower, Piketooth and Storm will be in my patrol.”

Fallowtail stood up. “I want to come.”

“Alright.” Hailstar led his Clanmates out of camp.

Storm’s heart was racing as he followed them through the reeds. Hailstar led them up the slope and around camp toward the meadow. They skirted the beech copse, which sat at the top of a hill arching over the meadow. Brightsky was calling out instructions to Gray.

“Where are you going?” Willow called to them, but no one answered. They crossed the meadow.

Oakheart fell back to join Storm. “Nice plan, Storm,” he said.

“I just hope it works.”

Hailstar halted in front of them. Out in the marsh was a single hill that rose out of the brown water like an island. It held a single large rock that jutted out from the ground, a black hole lead into the cave beneath. A large, brown shape was just visible.

“Are you sure about this?” Hailstar asked Softwing.

“Of course!” Softwing said.

Shellheart joined her. “I’ll try to keep up.”

Hailstar turned to Storm. “Where should the attack party wait?”

Beetlenose rolled his eyes. “Why are you letting an apprentice tell warriors what to do?”

“It was his plan.” Hailstar glared at his son.

Storm looked around, then pointed to a thicket of willow trees. “We could climb those and drop down when the bear comes.”

“Hide in trees?” Beetlenose narrowed his eyes. “Do we look like squirrels to you?”

“It won’t be for long,” Storm urged. “And willows are easy to climb.”

Piketooth was already heading toward the thicket. He climbed up the slim trunk and clung to one of the branches. It swayed beneath his weight, but held him well enough. “It’ll do fine,” he said.

Fallowtail and Cedarpelt followed. “Give us some time to get ready,” Hailstar said. “Then lure the bear toward us.”

Storm climbed into the willow. Through the leaves, he could see the cave entrance. Hailstar climbed up the willow beside him. Oakheart teetered onto his branch.

“I hope this works,” he muttered.

Storm held on tight. “It’ll work.” Heart in his throat, he stared at the cave, waiting for Softwing.

Softwing waded through the marsh. Keeping low, she crept onto the island. Beyond her, the bear was snoring loudly. Slowing to a halt, Softwing shouted as loud as she could.

Storm leaned forward, energy making him shudder. The bear jolted, then raised its snout to poke out of the cave.

Then it lumbered into the open and turned on them.

Softwing flew over the grass, hardly touching the ground. She shot toward the willow thicket.

The willows shuddered as the attack patrol braced themselves. The bear gave chase onto the meadow. Softwing was already far ahead of it. Storm noticed Shellheart keeping pace in the long grass nearby.

Softwing was nearing the thicket.

“Come on!” Softwing shouted as she shot beneath the waiting patrol.

“Attack!” Hailstar called.

Storm dropped from the tree, landing in a crouch. His Clanmates joined him, blades at the ready. The bear yelped and stumbled to a halt. It stared at them, then turned and pounded away.

“It’s heading for the beech copse!” Fallowtail screamed.

Storm broke away from the warriors and ran after the bear. It was taking a line straight for the beeches.

“Willow! Gray!” Storm shouted.

“Bear!” Owlfur’s panicked shout sounded from the top of the hill. Footsteps scrambled as the copse exploded into screams.

Storm crested the slope. Gray, Owlfur and Brightsky were halfway in the beech branches, staring helplessly into the clearing. Willow was cornered against another tree, the bear lumbering toward her. Her eyes were wide in fear.

Storm leaped on the bear’s back, gripping its dark fur. The bear roared in anger and reared, trying to throw him off. Its huge paws churned the air. Storm pressed himself into its fur, trying to keep his grip as it bucked and roared.

Storm dared to let go with one hand, fumbling for the spear on his back. Finally, he felt the carved wood in his fingers and pulled it from the sheath, stabbing the blade into the bear’s neck. It gave a low groan before collapsing to the ground, sending up a dust cloud that matted its thick fur.

“You killed it!” Willow’s shout made Storm sit up.

He panted heavily, ripping his spear from the limp bear and rolling off of it onto his back. He laid on the ground, looking up at the sky. He was too exhausted for grace.

Willow’s face appeared in his vision, eyes wide with admiration. “You saved my life!” She knelt beside his head. “Thank you!”

Storm took in a deep breath, finding his voice. “It was nothing.”

Suddenly, footsteps came running up the slope. Storm turned his head to see Oakheart and Hailstar racing under the beech copse.

“Storm killed the bear!” Willow said.

Owlfur’s jaw dropped with shock. “We all ran for the trees. I didn’t realize Willow wasn’t behind me. If Storm hadn’t been there…”

“He was so brave!” Brightsky cut in. “He jumped on his back and wrestled it.”

Fallowtail pushed past her Clanmates. “Thank you,” she breathed. “I can't stand the thought of losing her.”

Oakheart grabbed Storm’s arm and helped him up. “You were amazing!”

“I did what any warrior would do,” Storm insisted.

“Yes, you did,” Hailstar said. “A warrior indeed, and I think this event proves you’re ready to become one.”

Storm’s heart leaped into his throat, his exhaustion forgotten. By now, the rest of the Clan was catching up.

“Storm,” Hailstar started. “You have more than proven that you are a capable warrior. From this moment forward, you will be known as Stormstrike. StarClan honors your loyalty and courage.”

The Clan took up their call. “Stormstrike! Stormstrike!”

Stormstrike stared at his leader, joy fizzing through him like stars.

“Well done!” Cedarpelt came forward, sound relieved.

Stormstrike smirked at him. “Glad to be rid of me?” he murmured.

“It’s hard to teach someone who already knows everything,” Cedarpelt answered.

Stormstrike frowned. “I’m sorry.”

Cedarpelt laughed. “I like to believe I taught you something.”

“You taught me so much!” Stormstrike insisted.

“And you have plenty more to learn.” Shellheart’s voice made Stormstrike turn. His father was gazing at him proudly.

Oakheart dashed past his father, tackling Stormstrike. “You’re a warrior now! Do you want to share my hut? I’m sure Whitefang won’t mind.”

“Congratulations.” Beetlenose said stiffly. “Took you long enough.”

Stormstrike met his gaze. “Nervous now that you’ve got competition?”

Before Beetlenose could answer, hands wrapped around Stormstrike’s arm. He looked down to see Willow pressing herself against him, eyes glittering. “I’ll miss sleeping beside you.”

Stormstrike smiled at her, then raised his head. He looked around until his gaze fell on Rainflower. She was staring at him from the edge of the beech copse. She and a few other warriors had come out to see what was happening. Lifting his chin, Stormstrike brushed Willow off and approached his mother.

She glared at him.

“I’m sorry I can’t make you proud of me,” Stormstrike said. “But I’m not done yet. I’ll make you glad I’m your son.”

Rainflower stared at him silently. Stormstrike swallowed back the emotion in his throat.

He lifted his chin and turned so she could see his twisted jaw. “You’ll never make me ashamed of who I am or what I look like. I was born in a storm, and that’s what defies me, not my jaw.”

He turned away.

Oakheart dashed over to him. “You’re right, Stormstrike.” He glanced at at Rainflower. “If our mother doesn’t want you, it’s her loss.”

“We want you,” Willow said.

“So do I.” Hailstar’s voice made him turn. The RiverClan leader was approaching them. He turned to address the Clan. “In a few days is the new moon, the darkest night of the month. That night, under the cover of darkness, we will take back Sunningrocks!”

“What if he lose again?” Rippleclaw called.

“We can’t lose a battle if we don’t fight,” Hailstar announced. He looked up at the waxing moon. “We won’t fight, but we will reset the border.”

Timberfur took a few steps forward. “Won’t ThunderClan just set them back?”

“Then we’ll keep resetting them until ThunderClan gets the message,” Hailstar answered. “And if it comes to battle, we’ll be ready!”

Chapter Text

A heron called from the far bank, its wings thrumming as it lifted into the air. Stormstrike saw the flash of its belly as it flew over the reed bed upstream. He’d been listening to the bird fishing. He wrapped his cloak tighter around himself, gazing around camp.

“Stormstrike.”

Stormstrike turned. “Is someone there?”

A pale shape appeared in front of him. “Stormstrike.”

“Mapleshade!” Stormstrike blinked in surprise. “What are you doing here?”

“I’ve been waiting for you,” she growled. “But you never went to sleep.”

“I’m sitting vigil.”

“You’re training doesn’t stop just because you’re sitting vigil.”

Stormstrike glared at her. He was a warrior now, and she’d have to respect that. “I can’t talk,” he whispered. “I’ll train tomorrow night.”

Mapleshade’s gaze hardened into pure anger. Then, she was gone, disappearing into the wind. Stormstrike glanced over his shoulder to make sure no one had heard. He was alone in the clearing.

He was shivering by the time dawn began pushing at the sky. The apprentice’s hut rustled and WIllow slipped out. She crossed the misty clearing to sit beside Stormstrike. “You must be cold.”

“Stormstrike!” Whitefang had awoken first, Oakheart sleepily following him. “How was the vigil?”

“Long!” Stormstrike stood up, feeling numb. “And cold.”

“Try it during the winter,” Oakheart joked.

Hailstar emerged from his hut. “How’s the newest warrior?” he called.

“Ready for patrol!” Stormstrike stretched stiffly.

Shellheart ducked out of his hut. “Owlfur! Brightsky! Let’s go!”

Willow stood up quickly. “Oh, I forgot! Gray and I are joining the dawn patrol! Then Owlfur promised to teach me a new battle move.” She darted back to the apprentice’s hut. “Gray, wake up! It’s time to go!”

Gray appeared in the entrance to the hut, yawning. “Already?”

Willow rolled her eyes. “Why do you think it’s called the dawn patrol?” She led Gray to where Brightsky had joined Shellheart. Owlfur was sorting through what little food they had left.

“Take something to Lakeshine and Shimmerpelt,” Shellheart ordered. “They’ll be hungry.”

“And thirsty.” Brambleberry emerged from her hut and gestured to Echomist. “Will you sit with Frog while they get something to eat?”

Echomist smiled. “I’d love to.”

“Let’s go, Gray!” Brightsky called. Shellheart was already leading the way out of camp. Gray hurried across camp to catch up with her mentor.

Stormstrike felt a tug of disappointment, watching them disappear. Then, excitement thrilled through him. He was a warrior now, and could do what he wanted. He glanced at the food storage, noticing the large hole was empty. He could go hunting. The Clan could feast tonight.

Chapter Text

“Nice catch, Stormstrike!” Shimmerpelt called across the clearing.

Shellheart laughed. “I don’t think he left any fish in the river.” He sat with Timberfur and Whitefang, sharing pieces of a pike. Stormstrike looked proudly at the food storage. He’d caught nearly ever fish.

Brightsky laid down. “The rest of us might as well retire,” she said. “Now that Stormstrike’s a warrior, we don’t need to do anything.”

Stormstrike stretched his arms to the sky, feeling his bones pop. “It’s nice to hunt in the Spring.”

Willow poked his rib. “Even without me?”

“It’s even better,” he teased. “You steal all the best fish.”

“Jerk!” She laughed.

“Hey, don’t be so rude to the guy who saved your life just yesterday,” he teased. Although it had only been a day, the bear attack had become less scary and more humorous.

Birdsong walked down from the slope toward the firepit. She glanced at them with a look of amusement. “Willow, dear,” she said. “Could you go help your grandfather get out of bed? If he doesn’t get up soon, he’ll miss the best of the fish.”

“No problem.” Willow jumped up, ruffling Stormstrike’s hair. “See you later.”

Stormstrike patted his hair back down and yawned. The sun had disappeared behind the willow tree, turning the camp blue.

“Your bed is ready,” Oakheart called.

“Thanks.” Stormstrike was looking forward to a good night’s sleep. He walked into Oakheart’s hut. The cocoon of woven reeds and sticks rested against the side of the camp. It was just big enough for three grown men. Stormstrike went to the farthest bed and sat down. It was soft and clean. Oakheart must have spent hours working on it. Stormstrike felt a jolt of affection for his younger brother. Oakheart had never lost faith in him. He’d always been there with words of encouragement.

He laid down and closed his eyes.

Only to find himself in the shadowy forest.

Mapleshade’s eyes blazed through the gloom. “Have you forgotten your promise?”

Stormstrike stared at her. “What?”

“Your promise!”

“Are you still upset I didn’t come to training last night?”

“No, you idiot! I saw you with Willow. I saw the way she swoons all over you. Do you remember what you promised?”

“To look after my Clan.” Stormstrike took a step back, confused.

She lunged at him, slapping him so hard across the face he staggered. “You promised to put your Clan before everything! That includes feelings for some pathetic girl.”

He stared at her. “You mean Willow?”

“You want to be a great warrior, don’t you?”

“Of course!” Stormstrike rubbed his jaw. It was hot with pain.

“Then forget about love and friendship and what you want, you selfish fool. You promised to put your Clan first!”

“I have put my Clan first.” Anger surged through him. “I saved Willow, and the rest of the Clan, from that bear. So what if she has a little crush? She’s like half my age. I’d never...not while she’s still an apprentice.”

Why was Mapleshade making such a big deal about this? Stormstrike had become a warrior. Wasn’t she proud? Confused, he turned and fled into the trees.

He swerved around the dark trees, racing through the tangling, slippery undergrowth. Mist swirled around him as he slipped and staggered, fighting to keep his balance in the mud. The undergrowth seemed to grab at his ankles, willing him to slow down. Heart pounding, he slowed. He was tired and wished he could just wake up. He wanted to get some real sleep. He stumbled to a halt, leaning his hand against a tree and catching his breath.

“You’re back.”

The croaking voice made him jolt. Stormstrike spun around to see a shape in the shadows. It shambled toward him.

“Goosefeather?” Stormstrike squinted through the darkness.

Goosefeather nodded. “You must be Mapleshade’s apprentice. I’d heard rumors about you.”

Stormstrike took a step back. “From who?”

“StarClan.”

“Is that why you’re here?” Stormstrike asked.

“I suppose so.”

“What does StarClan say about me?”

Goosefeather walked around Stormstrike. “That you could be a great warrior.”

“Get away from that old fool.” Mapleshade’s voice sounded from behind him. She’d caught up, although her breath was steady.

Goosefeahter glanced at her in amusement. “I may be an old fool, but my heart is still true. I’m no bitter shrew shriveled by the need for petty revenge.”

Stormstrike blinked. “What does that mean?”

“Watch yourself, Mapleshade,” Goosefeather said. “A destiny shouldn’t be played with like a toy.”

Mapleshade pushed past Stormstrike to stand between him and Goosefeather. “Ignore him, Stormstrike. His mind has been addled by years of being StarClan’s vision dump.”

Stormstrike met her gaze. “At least he speaks to me like an equal.”

Mapleshade laughed. “You’re not upset with me, are you?” She took his arm and guided him away from Goosefeather. “Maybe I was harsh, but I was afraid you’d forgotten your promise. I want you to be the greatest warrior the Clans have ever known. Willow is sweet, but love is dangerous.” She turned to face him. “It’s a distraction. She’ll make you soft and forget your destiny. You still want to be a great warrior, don’t you?”

“Yes!” Stormstrike said.

“Good.” She looked up at him, smile sickly sweet. “Everything I do, I do for you, Stormstrike.”

Chapter Text

A warm wind set the four great oaks whispering above the clearing. They were thick with foliage now that Summer was here. After years of going to Gatherings, Stormstrike was perfectly comfortable in Fourtrees with the other Clans. The warm weather had also burned away the short tempers. He followed his Clanmates into the clearing where they joined the chattering crowd. Owlfur and Brightsky joined a group of other mentors.

“We have a good batch of youngsters in ThunderClan,” Adderfang boasted.

Brambleberry headed for where the healers were gathered below the Great Rock. “Featherwhisker!” She greeted one of the ThunderClan healers.

Ottersplash went to Patchpelt, a warrior from ThunderClan. “Has Leopardfoot given birth yet?”

Seeing Ottersplash’s rounded stomach, Stormstrike wondered if she’d beat Leopardfoot to it. “Why do women always put off going to the nursery?” he asked, leaning close to Oakheart.

Oakheart shrugged. “You’d think they’d like relaxing all day while we feed them.”

Footsteps sounded from behind them. “Has it occurred to you that maybe we enjoy helping our Clan?” Rainflower growled. “Wouldn’t you find it hard to give up being a warrior for ten years?”

Oakheart blushed and looked down. “I guess so,” he said.

“Hey, Poppydawn.” Stormstrike nodded to a red haired ThunderClan woman. “Are Sweet, Rose and Thistle here?”

“No.” Poppydawn sighed. “Thistle got himself in trouble again.”

Windflight, her husband, shook his head. “Sweet and Rose stayed behind to cheer him up.”

Storm smiled. “They’re good sisters.”

Poppydawn nodded. “They are.”

Tanglewhisker pushed past them. “Mumblefoot!” he called to a ThunderClan elder.

“Wait for me!” Birdsong followed her husband to greet Mumblefoot and a WindClan elder named Whiteberry.

Oakheart watched them. “They’d talk all night if they could,” he joked. “So, how does it feel to be at a Gathering as a warrior?”

Stormstrike smiled. “Great!”

Willow broke away from a group of apprentices. “Gray is such a show-off.” She glanced at her sister, who was demonstrating a battle move to the other apprentices.

Stormstrike laughed. “Why don’t you go show them how she snores?”

“I don’t think they’re ready for that,” Willow giggled.

Rainflower was calling to Oakheart. “Have you met Talltail yet? He’s WindClan’s new deputy.”

As she led him away, Stormstrike spotted Blue. He hadn’t seen her since the battle. “You fought well,” he said, approaching her.

She glared at him. “I fight even better now than I’m a warrior. My name is Blueflower.”

He smiled. “I got my warrior name, too. Stormstrike.”

They began to talk and he felt a prick of guilt. She had no idea RiverClan was planning on reclaiming Sunningrocks soon. He pushed away the thought. She was a rival. As soon as the full moon was over, so was their friendship.

A shout sounded from the Great Rock. “Let the Gathering begin!”

Pinestar stood at the edge of the stone. Hailstar, Heatherstar and Cedarstar stood behind him. Stormstrike moved forward with Blueflower as the Clans crowded around the rock. Pinestar stepped back and Cedarstar took his place.

“Summer has brought us plenty of food and warmth, but also more townsfolk straying into our forest.”

Ottersplash shook her head. “They always bother us in the Summer, playing in the river and scaring away the fish.”

Pinestar stepped forward next. “We intend to increase our patrols against any intruders.” He glared at Hailstar.

The RiverClan warriors started to murmur.

Raggedpelt, ShadowClan’s deputy, was the first to respond. “No one in ShadowClan has crossed your border in months.”

“WindClan has stayed on our side of Fourtrees!” Hawkheart called from the cluster of healers.

Hailstar returned Pinestar’s sharp gaze. “Are you accusing RiverClan of trespassing?”

Pinestar shrugged. “I’m not accusing anyone of anyone. I just thought you should know ThunderClan will be stepping up our patrols. It’s better to be safe than sorry.”

Stormstrike stared at the ThunderClan leader. Why was he stirring up trouble when everything had been fine until now? “What’s this nonsense about borders?” he called. “We were talking about townsfolk.”

Oakheart called from behind him. “ThunderClan likes being friends with the townsfolk!”

Adderfang whipped his head around. “What did you say?”

Oakheart met the ThunderClan warrior’s gaze. “You know exactly what I said.”

“Enough!” Heatherstar snapped from the Great Rock. She looked up at the wisps of clouds that streaked Silverpelt. Some of the stars glittered out of view. The Clans fell into silence.

Now, it was Heatherstar’s turn. “Reedfeather has retired to the elder’s hut. Talltail is our new deputy.”

“Talltail! Talltail!” The Clans cheered. Stormstrike noticed the tall, dark haired man puffed his chest out proudly.

“RiverClan has good news as well,” Hailstar said. “We have a new warrior. Stormstrike!”

Stormstrike raised his head, surprised. He’d forgotten he’d be formally introduced to the Clans. He held his head high as the crowd chanted his name, and joined in to welcome Blueflower and Snowfur as Pinestar announced them. However, their cheers were halfhearted. Now that Pinestar had sparked aggression from the other Clans, no one was willing to welcome them.

Once the Gathering was over, the Clans separated with an icy silence.

Stormstrike joined RiverClan at the bottom of the slope. “Do you think Pinestar knows our plan?” he asked Oakheart.

Oakheart narrowed his eyes. “How would he know?”

“Maybe Goosefeather or Featherwhisker had a sign.”

Shellheart cut in. “Pinestar’s just getting senile,” he murmured. “He’s just stirring up trouble for the enjoyment of it.”

“Did Blueflower say anything?” Oakheart asked. “I saw you talking to her.”

“No.”

“Wasn’t it weird talking to her when we’re planning an attack?” Oakheart prompted.

“I’m loyal to RiverClan, not Blueflower.”

“I guess.” Oakheart’s eyes darkened. “I kind of feel bad for her.”

“Don’t be soft on her,” Stormstrike snapped. Blueflower was an enemy.

As they approached camp, Stormstrike could hear anxious murmuring from beyond the reeds.

A figure emerged from camp. “Have you seen Beetlenose and Voleclaw?” Petaldust asked.

“Why? What’s wrong?” Hailstar stopped, making the rest of the patrol stumble to a halt.

Petaldust’s eyes widened. “They went to get you!”

Hailstar shook his head. “We took the gorge path.” He turned and nodded to Shellheart and Owlfur. “Go find them. If Pinestar catches them anywhere near ThunderClan territory, they’ll be in trouble.”

Shellheart and Owlfur dashed off. Brambleberry pushed to the head of the patrol. “What’s wrong?”

“It’s Shimmerpelt,” Petaldust said. “She’s gone into labor.”

Brambleberry hurried into camp, the rest of the patrol following. Brightsky, Echomist and Softwing were huddled near the nursery.

“You’re back!” Echomist stood up.

“Shimmerpelt went into labor?” Brambleberry said.

Echomist nodded. “Around midnight. Lakeshine and Piketooth are with her. But she shouldn’t be due for another month!”

“Has there been any bleeding?” Brambleberry asked calmly.

“No.”

“Good.” Brambleberry walked toward the nursery.

“Do you need herbs?” Echomist asked.

Brambleberry shook her head. “Only StarClan can help her now.”

“I hope she’s alright,” Willow said.

Lakeshine peeked out of the nursery. “She needs water.”

“I’ll get it!” Willow dashed to the reed bed. Brightsky followed and helped her get a few full pots of water. They carried it back to the nursery and passed it to Lakeshine.

“I need honey!” Brambleberry called from the nursery.

“I’ve got it!’ Birdsong headed for the healer’s hut.

Stormstrike and Oakheart exchanged a glance. “What will honey do?”

“It’ll give her energy,” Willow said as she passed.

Stormstrike looked around, feeling helpless. What could they do to help? “We could start collecting bulrushes to make a training wall.”

Oakheart laughed. “Even Frog’s too young for that.”

“There must be something we can do!”

Timberfur caught his eye. “There’s not. We just have to wait and hope.”

“Unless you know how to deliver a baby,” Rippleclaw muttered.

Stormstrike shook his head.

Footsteps sounded outside camp. Shellheart ducked inside, along with Owlfur, Beetlenose and Voleclaw. “They got to Fourtrees and back without a problem.”

Stormstrike snorted. “You should work on your tracking skills, Beetlenose.”

Beetlenose glared at him.

“How’s she doing?” Echomist called.

A low groan answered.

“She’s fine,” Brambleberry called. “I need honey.”

“Coming!” Birdsong was hurried across the clearing with a small bowl of thick honey.

“Hey, Stormstrike,” Beetlenose said. “Why don’t you go help. You like being the center of attention, don’t you?”

“Why don’t you?” Stormstrike retorted.

Beetlenose scoffed. “I’m a warrior, not a healer.”

“Don’t be so squeamish,” Willow said. “Everyone has children eventually.”

“I won’t!” Voleclaw said.

“You just want to have Stormstrike’s baby,” Beetlenose teased.

“Am I the only one here who doesn’t want me to be set up with a ten year old?” Stormstrike growled.

Sudden wailing sounded from the nursery. Lakeshine emerged. “It’s a girl!” she called, her eyes shining.

“Let’s go meet her,” Willow said, racing for the nursery. Reluctantly, Stormstrike followed, feeling Beetlenose’s gaze bore into him.

“Can we see her?” Willow begged Brambleberry at the entrance to the nursery.

“Alright, but not for long,” Brambleberry said.

Willow squeezed inside.

“Come on.” Brambleberry gestured for Stormstrike to follow.

He glanced away nervously.

She rolled her eyes. “Men!” she sighed. “It’s just a baby.”

Stormstrike squeezed through the nursery. He had to bow his head to stand. He’d gotten so big, it was hard to believe he’d once though the nursery was huge. The air was dark and heavy, filled with a strange scent.

“Look!” Piketooth sat beside Shimmerpelt, eyes shining.

Stormstrike peered into the bundle Shimmerpelt held against her bosom. The baby girl had a tuft of brown hair like her father, and dark skin like her mother.

“Her name is Sky,” Shimmerpelt murmured.

Sky let her small mouth fall open in a cry. Stormstrike had never seen something so tiny or helpless.

“Welcome to RiverClan, Sky,” Willow said.

Stormstrike shifted. “She’s beautiful,” he muttered. He wondered if he’d ever had his own daughter. Probably not. Mapleshade would have his head if he chose to settle.

Chapter Text

Stormstrike flopped down into his bed. Whitefang was already snoring. Oakheart was just settling down. Stormstrike closed his eyes, desperate for sleep, but he couldn’t relax. Had Mapleshade seen him mooning over the new baby with Willow? He could already hear her lecture.

He pushed away the thought. The Clan came first, but why did that mean he couldn’t have a wife and family? Children became warriors and warriors made the Clan strong. Besides, even if Willow had a little crush on him, she wasn’t doing any harm. She’d get over it.

Maybe one day, when she was older, Stormstrike might like her back. Mapleshade couldn’t change that.

“Are you okay?” Oakheart whispered.

“I’m fine.”

“Then stop fidgeting,” Oakheart complained.

Stormstrike closed his eyes and drifted into sleep.

To his delight, when he woke up, he found sunshine streaming through the entrance to the hut. He hadn’t dreamt of StarClan! He sat up, feeling well rested for the first time in years.

“You’re in a good mood.” Oakheart stretched. “Good dream?”

“No dreams!” Stormstrike stood up and pushed out of the hut.

Shellheart was already organizing the patrols beneath the willow. Stromstrike crossed the sunny clearing and stood between Timberfur and Brightsky. Owlfur and Cedarpelt were murmuring. Mudfur was still yawning while Voleclaw was patting down his ruffled hair. Beetlenose and Petaldust were arguing in hushed tones.

“Ottersplash moved to the nursery this morning,” Shellheart announced. “Which means we’re another warrior down. But the river’s full of fish, and deep enough to keep the other Clans away. Stormstrike, take Oakheart, Mudfur, Brightsky and Voleclaw upstream to check the WindClan border. Timberfur, you take Rippleclaw, Lilystem and Owlfur to the stepping stones.”

Stormstrike’s heart pounded. He was leading a patrol!

He walked over to his hut. Oakheart was cleaning out the old beds. “We’re going on patrol to check the WindClan border.” The others were already waiting by the camp entrance. Gray had come to join her mentor.

Once Oakheart was up, Stormstrike lead the way out of camp, setting a brisk pace through the grass. The sound of footsteps behind him filled him with joy. The sun was shining and a warm breeze wafted across the sparkling river. Stormstrike had to fight to keep himself from smiling too brightly. He veered off the path and into a cluster of alder trees. The shore was sandy on the edge of the marsh.

Gray jogged to walk beside him. “Can we fish?”

“If you want to carry it around for the rest of the morning,” Oakheart said.

Gray sighed. “We could just eat it now,” he said hopefully.

“You know that’s against the warrior code,” Mudfur said sternly. “Besides, we need to check the border.”

They rounded a bend in the river, standing just a few lengths from the bridge. Trees crowded the bank beyond it, their leaves rustling in the light breeze.

Stormstrike walked onto the wooden structure. The river splashed beneath him. His Clanmates followed, checking both sides.

“Gray!” Brightsky called in alarm. Stormstrike looked up. Gray had crossed the bridge and was walking along the far bank.

“But it’s our territory!” Gray called back. “To the waterfall at least.”

A huge boom split the air, the sand beside Gray’s feet flying up. All of the warriors instinctively dropped to the ground, hands over their heads. Stormstrike’s ear rung as he tried to register the sound. It had come from close by.

“Get off our bridge!” Came a shrill voice. Stormstrike raised his head, peering over the bridge. On the fair bank, a large man was stalking toward Gray, a long stick in his arms.

“Run!” Brightsky shouted to her apprentice.

Gray was rooted to the spot, staring at the man as he raised the boomstick to his shoulder.

“Run!” Mudfur shouted.

Gray took a few steps back, then raced across the bridge. Brightsky followed her off the structure.

“Come on!” Stormstrike called to his patrol, racing off the bridge. He glanced over his shoulder to make sure they were following, then slowed to let them pass downstream.

The man’s raised the stick to the sky and fired off three more warning shots that struck the air, making it tremble with the sound.

They didn’t stop until they were at the reed bed. Stormstrike finally slowed, his lungs burning. Brightsky stopped, followed by Oakheart and Mudfur. Gray didn’t stop. She raced past them and leaped over the reed bed into camp.

The warriors stayed outside, catching their breath. Just as Stormstrike was righting himself, he noticed Gray leading Hailstar and Fallowtail out of camp.

Hailstar’s eyes were wide. “Is everyone okay?”

“Gray told us what happened.” Fallowtail’s voice was high with terror.

“We’re all fine,” Stormstrike said. “Just spooked.”

In camp, it seemed like the whole Clan was waiting for them.

“Townsfolks should stay where they belong- in town!” Troutclaw growled. “Just because we let them cross our land to travel doesn’t mean that can threaten us. When I was a boy, they knew to keep their distance. Now these kids are bold and stupid.”

Hailstar shook his head. “We’ll just have to be more cautious. Their weapons are more advanced then ours.”

“Maybe we should pull back our borders,” Echomist said. “Just for the summer, when the townsfolk travel the most.”

“Pull back our borders?” Whitefang echoed in shock. “No way! I’m not afraid of a few couthies!”

Stormstrike looked at Whitefang, wondering if he’d say the same if he’d seen the loud boomstick the man had used to threaten them. Whatever power it had, it had been able to kick up sand in quite a spectacular blast. If it hit a man, it could be lethal.

Chapter Text

“Brambleberry!’ Mudfur shouted, hurring out of the nursery.

Brambleberry emerged from her hut. "Is it Brightsky?"

Mudfur nodded. “She keeps saying she’s thirsty, but she won’t drink anything.”

“Give me a moment.” Brambleberry ducked back into her hut.

Brightsky had moved to the nursery a few days ago, expecting Mudfur’s child. But fever had struck her the previous night. Stormstrike picked his way across camp. The clearing was littered with his Clanmates napping in the bright sunshine. It was pointless hunting with the sun so hot. Any fish they caught would go rotten by dinner time. Even the reeds were drooping under the scorching summer sun.

Stormstrike stepped over Rippleclaw to get to Gray. “Where’s Willow?”

“Owlfur took her training,” Gray said. She looked wistfully toward the nursery. Piketooth had been made her mentor now that Brightsky was out of the warrior's hut.

Stormstrike followed her gaze. “When’s the baby due?”

“Not for another six months.”

Rippleclaw raised his head. Piketooth was across the clearing, leaning over his daughter and cooing as he moved her legs back and forth. The baby girl grabbed at her father’s face, giggling.

“I can teach you a few moves while he’s busy,” Rippleclaw offered.

Gray smiled. “Yes, please.”

Rippleclaw led Gray to a shady spot in the clearing and showed her the defense crouch. The sedge rustled as Brambleberry emerged from her hut with a bundle of herbs. She led Mudfur across the clearing and into the nursery.

Stormstrike hoped StarClan was watching over Brightsky. Fever in a pregnant mother could danger the baby.

Birdsong was crossing the clearing. She called to Stormstrike. “Is Shellheart back yet?”

Shellheart had led a patrol with Beetlenose, Petaldust, Cedarpelt and Timberfur to check the border. They’d been out since noon.

“Not yet.” Stormstrike shrugged. “They should be back soon.”

Whitefang stood up and stretched. “Do you think Hailstar will go through with his plan to take back Sunningrocks in a few days?” He glanced toward the leader’s hut.

Lakeshine sat up. “It’s too hot for battles.”

Willow leaves fluttered as Oakheart climbed onto the lowest branch. “It’s never too hot for battles. Hailstar said the new moon, which is just a few days from now.”

Rainflower scoffed. “He isn’t planning a battle, he’s just resetting the borders.”

Stormstrike swatted a mosquito off his arm. “I’m ready for whatever Hailstar wants to do.”

Piketooth looked up. “I hope I get to go.” Every warrior wanted a chance to hammer in a new border marker.

“Me too!” Rippleclaw was adjusting Gray’s crouch. “Reach farther.”

Piketooth glanced at his apprentice. “Sorry, Sky. I have to train Gray now.” He picked her up and carried her across the clearing, depositing her in her mother’s arms. Then he turned to approach Gray. “We can practice fishing.”

He led her out of camp.

Footsteps sounded outside of camp. Stormstrike raised his head to see the patrol returning.

“You’re back.” Hailstar’s voice sounded from the other side of the clearing. “Let all those old enough to swim gather to hear my words!”

“I think it’s happening!” Oakheart had jumped down from the willow to join Stormstrike.

Once the Clan was gathered, Hailstar raised his chin. “Tonight, we remark Sunningrocks as our land.”

Tension made the air as thick as mud. Oakheart leaned forward.

“Who will you take?” Rippleclaw demanded.

Hailstar scanned the clearing. “Shellheart, Owlfur, Echomist, Timberfur, Softwing, Rippleclaw, Whitefang, Stormstrike, Oakheart and Voleclaw.”

“That’s it?” Beetlenose called.

Hailstar turned to his son. “The new border will need remarked many more times. You’ll get your turn.”

“Retaking land isn’t the same as remarking it.” Beetlenose glanced at Stormstrike. “Why does he get to go? He’s hardly been a warrior for a month. He didn’t even have an assessment. How do you know he can even climb the rocks?”

Stormstrike whipped around to face him. “I climbed Sunningrocks as an apprentice,” he growled.

Shellheart stepped between them. “Not everyone can be on every patrol,” he said.

Stormstrike glared at Beetlenose over his father’s shoulder. He needed to put his Clan first, which meant de-escalating situations such as these. It was better to use soft words instead of blades. “I’m lucky to have been chosen,” he confessed. “I’m sorry you won’t get to go, Beetlenose.”

He forced out the words. He needed to show the Clan he was mature and worthy of being on this patrol. He noticed Rainflower glaring at him from under the willow. She hadn’t been chosen either.

“I wish I could have the whole Clan beside me,” Stormstrike said. He nodded to Piketooth and Cedarpelt. “You taught me everything I know.” He didn’t like making speeches, but he’d need the skill if he was to be leader one day. He met Beetlenose’s gaze. “I learned a lot from watching you train. Your courage gave me courage.”

Beetlenose frowned, his expression guarded, but he didn’t seem angry anymore.

Oakheart was nodding. “Stormstrike is right,” he said. “We are a Clan. When one of us fights, we all fight.”

“Well said, son,” Shellheart praised.

Stormstrike felt a surge of pride. He noticed a glimmer of respect in Rainflower’s gaze.

“We leave at midnight,” Hailstar announced.

Chapter Text

A heron spiraled up and away, soaring downstream as the patrol walked along the shore. Stormstrike paused by the water. The river flowed smoothly, black as the sky. Sunningrocks stood on the far bank, a silhouette against the darkness.

Hailstar waded into the river. As the water closed over his shoulders, his Clanmates followed. Stormstrike let the cool water wrap itself around him, refreshed after the hot day. The patrol swam across the river, quiet as mice and hardly disturbing the surface of the water.

Stormstrike was the first to reach the shore. The river’s edge was nothing but a rock shelf jutting out from below Sunningrocks. Stormstrike pulled himself out of the water and onto the stone. Oakheart climbed out beside him. Hailstar and Whitefang waded onto the bank downstream. Voleclaw threw a leg over the rock shelf and heaved himself out, Rippleclaw and Softwing following. Echomist, Owlfur and Shellheart brought up the rear, all carrying huge bundles of carved sticks on their backs.

Stormstrike gazed at the starry sky. Last time he was here, he’d been chased into his own territory by two little girls.

Hailstar and Shellheart led the way up the sheer rock face. Their Clanmates followed. Stormstrike grabbed the nearest handhold and swung himself onto the smooth, flat stone.

Hailstar was staring into the trees that crowded the far edge of Sunningrocks. Every branch was ThunderClan territory. “You start on that side, Shellheart.” He pointed to the top of the cliff. “Take Owlfur, Softwing, Voleclaw and Rippleclaw.” He glanced at the others. “You’re with me.”

Stormstrike followed the RiverClan leader across the rock. Echomist swung the bundle off her back and let it drop to the ground. Hailstar took out the first stick. One end of was sharpened into a point that he stabbed into the ground beside the first tree they reached.

“I want a marker by every bush and tree,” Hailstar ordered.

Stormstrike crossed the strip of grass to a bramble bush and stabbed another marker into the ground. By the time they’d all met back at the cliff top, they’d built a wall of markers at the edge of the forest. Each was so close together, ThunderClan would have to jump them if they wanted to get through.

“I want four warriors to keep guard,” Hailstar announced. “If a ThunderClan patrol comes, challenge them. If there’s a fight, we’ll hear from camp and come help.”

Timberfur stepped forward. “I’ll stay.”

“Me too,” Stormstrike said.

Hailstar shook his head. “I want my most experienced warriors on the first watch. Shellheart, you stay with Timberfur, Echomist and Owlfur.”

Stormstrike frowned as he followed Oakheart down the cliff face. He sat to hop down, landing into a crouch beside Whitefang.

Whitefang was smiling. “That was easy.”

Hailstar nodded. “Let’s go tell the Clan.”

Back in camp, the others were gathered in the starry clearing. Beetlenose paced beside the reed bed. Lilystem had watched them from the willow tree. Even Brightsky had come to see them.

“Did you do it?” Lakeshine asked.

“Sunningrocks belongs to RiverClan!” Hailstar announced.

The Clan’s cheers sent roosting birds flapping into the night sky.

Willow hurried to Stormstrike. “Did you have to fight?”

“It was so easy, we didn’t need to,” he said. “No one saw us.”

Beetlenose huffed. “That’s because ThunderClan is asleep!”

“There was no sign of them,” Voleclaw added.

“It was probably too hot for them,” Petaldust teased.

Stormstrike looked around, feeling nervous. Their victory had been too easy. There was a catch, right?

Chapter Text

“I can’t believe they haven’t tried to fight for it.” Oakheart hauled himself onto the top boulder of Sunningrocks. “It’s been a week. We’ll be able to bring the elders here soon.”

Stormstrike followed his brother, sitting on the edge and surveying the stone. “They might be waiting to catch us off guard.” Petaldust, Cedarpelt, Beetlenose and Mudfur were already there, acting as guards.

Mudfur opened his mouth to call to them.

“Brightsky’s fine,” Stormstrike told him. Mudfur simply nodded and leaped off the rock and into the river, swimming toward camp.

Fallowtail and Whitefang climbed onto the rocks as Beetlenose, Cedarpelt and Petaldust passed them.

“Mudfur’s in a hurry,” Whitefang said.

Fallowtail sighed. “Brightsky hasn’t gotten any better.”

Not a single marker had been moved since RiverClan had taken back Sunningrocks a week ago. ThunderClan seemed to have given up without a fight.

Oakheart sat beside Stormstrike. Meanwhile, Fallowtail and Whitefang positioned themselves at the edge of the rocky plateau.

“I can’t believe it was so easy,” Whitefang said, sounding disappointed. “I was looking forward to a fight.”

Stormstrike looked over his shoulder. “One still might come.”

Below them, bushes rustled.

Stormstrike stood up. “What was that?”

“ThunderClan,” Fallowtail whispered. “I can sense them.”

The patrol gathered together, staring into the trees. Stormstrike could sense heartbeats in the trees.

“It’s Blueflower.” Oakheart jumped off the rock.

“Careful!” Fallowtail called.

Stormstrike shook his head. “They won’t attack. It’s just a border patrol.”

Oakheart peered into the trees, leaning over the wall of markers. Stormstrike saw his brother’s mouth moving, but couldn’t hear his words.

After a few more words were exchanged, Oakheart turned away, smiling in amusement.

Whitefang jumped down the rock to meet him. “What was it?”

“Just a border patrol,” Oakheart said with a shrug.

“You said it was Blueflower,” Stormstrike said. “Were you talking to her?”

“Yeah.” Oakheart glanced at him. “Is that a problem?”

Stormstrike blinked, confused by his brother’s defensiveness. “No. What did she say?”

“ThunderClan’s not happy about losing Sunningrocks,” Oakheart said.

“Wait,” Whitefang said. “I think I hear more footsteps.”

Stormstrike stared into the shadows. He could see figures flashing between the trunks. Anger flared into his chest. He wouldn’t let anyone from ThunderClan set foot on his territory. Now that RiverClan had reclaimed it, he’d fight to the death to keep it.

Chapter Text

“Keep your shoulders square!” Stormstrike pulled Willow’s shoulders back. “You have to stay balanced.”

Willow twisted to get in position.

“Now, leap!” Stormstrike ordered.

“Leap?” Willow looked over her shoulder. “I can hardly move.”

Stormstrike sat up. “I’m just trying to help.”

The sun was rising over the trees on the far side of the river. Willow had asked Stormstrike to help her practice hunting birds.

“You have to stay low,” Stormstrike said. “When the river freezes, birds save us from starvation.”

“I’m not good at catching birds.” Willow’s frowned. “Owlfur has showed me a thousand times, but I just can’t do it.”

“You can do it,” Stormstrike said. “You just have try again. Now, move your legs closer together. You can jump farther like that.”

“Why do I need to jump?” Willow asked, dropping into position.

“Birds are fast, and can fly high. The closer you get, the better your aim will be.”

Willow paused for a moment, then launched herself forward, jumping over a clump of marsh grass.

“Perfect!” Stormstrike praised.

“Willow!” Gray called from the reeds. “Owlfur and Piketooth want to take us training.”

“Coming!” Willow glanced at Stormstrike. “I’ll see you later.”

“Hurry up!” Gray urged.

“Have fun,” Stormstrike called.

As she disappeared past the reeds, he headed for the river, feeling restless. This winter had been kind and cool. It hadn’t even snowed yet, although they were near the end of the year. Stormstrike slid into the chilly water and let it carry him downstream, drifting on his back. Through the reeds of camp he could hear the children squealing as they played. Ottersplash had given birth to a son called Loud, named after how loud his crying had been when he’d been born. No one in camp had slept that night. Meanwhile, Brightsky was due in just a few days.

He climbed out of the water near the stepping stones. He could hear Birdsong’s voice from the Sunningrocks.

“It feels nice to relax here again,” Birdsong rasped.

“Normally, they’d be covered in snow by now,” Tanglewhisker said. “StarClan has blessed us this year!”

Stormstrike walked up the shore and followed a narrow trail into the spindly trees. The sun was shining, but the air itself was chilly.

Nearby, he could hear more voices. Realizing he was close to the willow copse, he climbed up the slope.

Owlfur and Piketooth were showing Willow and Gray battle moves. Stormstrike watched Willow. She had great form, blocking each of Owlfur’s blows with ease. Stormstrike felt a flicker of pride. It was one of the battle tactics he’d taught her.

Willow twisted around to get a hit on Owlfur’s cheek. He gasped and drew back, smiling with pride. “Amazing!”

“What are you doing?” A voice sounded from behind him.

Stormstrike whirled around, blushing deeply as he looked at his father. “I was just, uh, seeing how training was going.”

Shellheart blinked. “Really?”

Stormstrike shrugged. “I was checking on Willow. I taught her a few things this morning.”

Shellheart smiled. “How is she doing?”

“Great!” Stormstrike said.

“Good.” Shellheart turned away. “Come back to camp with me. Lunch will be ready soon.” He steered Stormstrike onto the walking trail.

Back at camp, Mudfur was pacing outside the nursery.

Ottersplash walked with him. “She’ll be fine.”

Stormstrike stopped to look around. Echomist was sitting beneath the willow tree, eyes anxiously fixed on the nursery. Rainflower’s gaze remained on the ground as she walked past.

Stormstrike put an arm out to stop her. “What’s going on?”

Rainflower frowned at him. “Brightsky’s gone into labor.”

Wailing sounded across the nursery. Lakeshine and Shimmerpelt were getting their children into the elder’s hut.

“Please stop crying, Sky,” Shimmerpelt cooed. “We can’t go in the nursery right now.”

“Come on, dear,” Birdsong called from the top of the slope. “I think they could use a nap.”

A scream sounded from the nursery. Sky cried louder.

“It’s okay,” Shimmerpelt soothed.

“When did she start?” Stormstrike asked Rainflower.

“Just after dawn.” Rainflower’s gaze was dark. “Brightsky’s still weak from sickness.”

“She’s tough,” Stormstrike said.

“That might not be enough.” Rainflower walked away.

Stormstrike joined Ottersplash and Mudfur outside the nursery. “Can’t we help at all?”

Ottersplash shook her head. “Brambleberry’s tried everything she knows. It’s not working.”

Another scream sounded from the nursery.

“She’s exhausted,” Ottersplash murmured.

Birdsong shambled down the slope. “Lakeshine and Shimmerpelt got the babies to sleep. How is she?”

Ottersplash simply shook her head.

“I’m going in.” Birdsong heaved through the nursery entance.

Oakheart emerged from his hut, yawning. “Is it over yet?” He caught Ottersplash’s gaze and stopped.

Birdsong slid out again. Her brown eyes held unshed tears. “Mudfur,” she said. “Go in.”

Mudfur stared at her, eyes wide in terror. Then he pushed into the nursery. A moment later, they heard a gasp and a loud sob.

Stormstrike looked at Birdsong. “Is Brightsky…?”

Birdsong simply nodded. Stormstrike looked at the ground, feeling helpless. Suddenly, a shrill wail rose from the nursery.

The baby had survived.

Brambleberry poked her head out. “It’s a girl,” she said quickly. “She’s weak, but alive.” She ducked back inside.

Hailstar emerged from his hut to join Echomist. “Thank StarClan.”

“Someone get Shimmerpelt,” Birdsong said. “The baby will need milk.”

Stormstrike dashed across the clearing. “Shimmerpelt!” As soon as she was in view, Stormstrike stopped. “Come with me. Brightsky’s daughter survived. She needs your milk.”

Shimmerpelt paused. “What for?”

“Hurry up!”

“Is something wrong with Brightsky?”

Stormstrike opened his mouth to speak, then frozen up.

Shimmerpelt’s gaze hardened. “Stormstrike, is something wrong with Brightsky?”

Stormstrike’s gaze fell to the ground. “She was too weak. She didn’t survive.”

Silently, Shimmerpelt walked across the clearing to the nursery. Just as she went inside, Mudfur emerged. He staggered across the clearing. Timberfur hurried over to catch him before he collapsed, leading his friend to the willow. Rippleclaw joined them.

The reeds swished as Gray and Willow charged into camp.

“I caught a blackbird!” Willow’s eyes shone as she held the bird over her head. “Thank you, Stormstrike!” When her gaze landed on him, she frozen. "What’s wrong?”

Rainflower was sitting at the bottom of the slope. She raised her head. “Brightsky’s dead,” she said. Grief clouded her eyes.

Although a new baby usually lifted the Clan’s spirits, no one found a reason to celebrate the lose of a warrior.

Chapter Text

Stormstrike emerged from his hut, yawning. Dawn was just starting to brighten the horizon. The river gurgled beyond the reeds and snores rumbled from the other huts.

“Ow!”

He paused, hearing a small voice.

“You stepped on my foot!”

The sedge at the edge of camp rustled. Stormstrike squinted. He could see a tiny figure among the fronds. He stalked across the clearing.

“Which way should we go?”

“I don’t know!”

He recognized the voices of Frog and Sky, the oldest children in the nursery.

“Why didn’t we just go through the entrance?”

“We could have been caught.”

Stormstrike reached a hand in and closed his fingers around fabric. He yanked Frog out of the sedge, then reached in for Sky.

“Hey!” She swatted at his hand as he dragged her into the opening.

“Where do you think you’re going?” he growled.

The two exchanged glances.

Footsteps sounded from the other side of the clearing. Brambleberry had awoken, yawning. She paused when she saw them. “Is everything alright?”

“I caught these two trying to sneak out of camp,” Stormstrike said.

Brambleberry gasped dramatically. “Children sneaking out of camp? That’s unheard of!”

Stormstrike forced himself not to smile. He had to stay stern. He knew how dangerous it was for a kid to be out on their own. “Where were you going?” he asked them.

Frog glanced at the ground. “We wanted to see where Brightsky was buried.”

Brambleberry frowned. “You weren’t even old enough to remember her. Why would you want to do that?”

It had been nearly a decade since Brightsky had died, and the Clan had moved on. Stormstrike winced as he remembered the vigil. Mudfur had glared at anyone who dared to get close to Brightsky’s body, his hands clenched, unwilling to let himself cry in front of the Clan. Even after the vigil, after Brightsky had been buried, the Clan could still hear his wails by her grave.

Sky dug her toe into the dirt. “Black was teasing Leopard because she’s never met her mother. We thought we could take her to see Brightsky, but we didn’t know the way. We just wanted to scope out a route first.”

“You should have told Shimmerpelt about the teasing,” Brambleberry said gently. “She loves Leopard just as much as Brightsky does.”

Frog stared at her. “Birdsong thinks Brightsky’s death means something,” he blurted out.

“Rainflower and Echomist said more bad things are going to happen,” Sky added.

“And Piketooth thinks StarClan is angry at us,” Frog went on. “It’s why the townsfolk keep bothering us.”

With every passing year, the townsfolk seemed to get bolder and bolder. They pushed into ThunderClan and RiverClan territory, threatening them whenever the Clansfolk tried to stand up for themselves. They let their children play in the river and forest, and they’d built more houses across the marsh.

“Troutclaw says that’s why you couldn’t save Brightsky,” Sky said to Brambleberry.

Brambleberry flinched. “It’s not like that.” Her voice was steady. “Sometimes bad things happen. Brightsky was just too sick to survive.”

“If StarClan was angry with us, they would have taken Leopard,” Stormstrike said.

“I guess they want us to look after her,” Sky conceded.

“Exactly,” Brambleberry agreed. “And the best way you can do that is by standing up for her when the other kids are mean.”

Frog nodded. “Okay, Brambleberry.” He turned to Sky. “Let’s get some water for everyone.”

“Okay!” Sky’s eyes brightened. She followed him toward the reed bed.

“Don’t fall in!” Stormstrike called after them. He turned to Brambleberry. “Do you think it was an omen?”

“No, I don’t.”

Stormstrike narrowed his eyes. “How can you tell if something is an omen or not?”

“An omen feels different,” Brambleberry said.

“Do they change things or do they just warn you about what will happen?”

Brambleberry met his gaze. “Sometimes they tell me about things that are already happening.”

“So you can change it?”

“So I can prepare for it.”

Stormstrike pressed his mouth into a thin line. “Can you tell me about the omen you got about me?”

Brambleberry chuckled. “That was many years ago, Stormstrike. I hardly remember.”

Before Stormstrike could argue, Beetlenose approached them. “I’m ready to gather herbs, Brambleberry,” he said, then sneered. “Why can’t Willowbreeze help you? She’s younger.”

Willowbreeze and Graypool had received their warrior names two years ago. Even though they were both warriors, Willowbreeze still asked Stormstrike to show her moves.

Now that she was older, Stormstrike let himself admit that she was attractive. And kind. And wonderful in every way.

Brambleberry rolled her eyes. “Stop fussing and let’s go.”

Beetlenose sighed and followed her out of camp.

“Let all those old enough to swim gather to hear my words.” Hailstar had walked into the center of the clearing.

Stormstrike frowned, wondering what was going on. Were the children being made apprentices? Most of them were old enough.

Beds rustled and footsteps scuffed as the others emerged from their huts.

Rippleclaw’s dark hair was still ruffled from sleep. Piketooth’s frown was deep, not happy to be awoken so early.

Oakheart yawned. “What’s going on?” he asked.

Hailstar turned to slowly eye the Clan. “We have held Sunningrocks securely for many years without so much as a whisper from ThunderClan. Today, we take more of their territory.”

Strormstrike blinked in surprise. He sought out his father in the crowd. Shellheart was watching Hailstar with a frown.

Cedarpelt stepped forward. “Do we really need more territory?”

“We need the river,” Hailstar countered. “We should control both banks, including the forest on the other side of the river.”

“Why would we want part of the forest?” Owlfur called.

“RiverClan has no use for trees,” Troutclaw huffed.

Rippleclaw glared at the elder. “We can fish on the other side of the river safely.”

Willowbreeze looked puzzled. “ThunderClan hates the water. They wouldn’t attack us there, would they?”

“But ThunderClan could learn to swim,” Ottersplash said. “Fish is the best food in the world. They keep us fed throughout the whole year. It’s only a matter of time before ThunderClan realizes that and tries to adopt our ways. As long as they have that part of the river, they might learn to use it.”

Troutclaw rolled his eyes. “ThunderClan is more likely to grow wings!”

Birdsong nodded. “RiverClan doesn’t need more territory. We have enough trouble maintaining what we already have.”

“Patrolling it would take a lot of time and effort,” Fallowtail added. “We should focus on what we have now.”

Timberfur glared at her. “Are you scared of a little hard work?”

“Of course not!” Fallowtail snapped.

“It would show ThunderClan we’re strong,” Whitefang put in.

“They’d never even look at Sunningrocks again,” Piketooth growled. “They’d be too busy trying to hold on to the rest of their forest.”

“Then it’s decided,” Hailstar said.

“When do we attack?” Whitefang called.

“Now!”

Stormstrike and Oakheart exchanged an astonished glance. Whitefang’s gaze shone with excitement. Rippleclaw and Timberfur murmured to each other. Cedarpelt was watching through narrowed eyes. Fallowtail was frowning and Owlfur was shaking his head.

Stormstrike didn’t understand. All they wanted was Sunningrocks. What would they even do with a stretch of trees? And how could they win a battle in the trees? None of them had ever fought there.

“I don’t like this,” Oakheart said. “What’s Hailstar doing?”

“I don’t know,” Stormstrike said. He glanced at Leopard. The little blonde girl was peering out at the meeting from the nursery. The Clan couldn’t take any more grief.

“I want to be in the attack patrol.” Ottersplash’s voice rang across the clearing.

Shimmerpelt gasped. “What about your children?”

“Will you watch them until I get back?” Ottersplash asked.

“Of course.” Shimmerpelt seemed flabbergasted. “But what if-”

“If Timberfur is willing to take this risk, so am I,” Ottersplash said.

Hailstar nodded. “I’d be proud to have you by my side.” His eyes glowed as he surveyed the Clan. “Shellheart, Timberfur, Rippleclaw, Piketooth, Whitefang and Beetlenose will join us.” He nodded to each warrior.

Stormstrike sighed in relief, glad he didn’t have to go.

Oakheart leaned close to him. “They’re the ones who were excited for the battle,” he said.

“They’ll fight the hardest,” Stormstrike said. He felt a flash of guilt. Shouldn’t he be excited to protect his Clan and show how strong it was? But this battle didn’t seem fair. ThunderClan hadn’t bothered them in many months, and RiverClan didn’t need that stretch of land.

Across the clearing, Loud was chasing after his mother. “When are you coming back?” he whimpered.

She stopped and knelt down to his level. “I’ll be back before noon.”

“You promise?”

Ottersplash kissed the top of Loud’s head. “I promise.”

Loud stared at his mother and she joined the patrol. Quickly, Shimmerpelt shooed him toward the nursery.

Chapter Text

Autumn had turned the willows red and made the sedge dark. Stormstrike shivered as a cold wind swept through camp. “Come on!” he called to the kids. “We can warm up with a game.”

Sky huffed. “We want to learn battle moves.”

“What if someone tries to invade camp?” Reed gasped. “We need to know how to protect ourselves!”

Stormstrike laughed. “I don’t think a group of ten years old with sticks can fend enemies off.”

Black glared at him. “Just you wait!”

“We’ll gut any intruders!” Frog called. “Show me the left hook, Stormstrike! Please?”

Stormstrike glanced at the nursery were Shimmerpelt and Lakeshine were cleaning out their beds. Ottersplash had just brought over another bundle of soft wool.

“Hey, Ottersplash, do you need help?” Stormstrike called. The kids were starting to surround him.

“Thanks, Stormstrike, but the kids like hanging out with a warrior,” Ottersplash said, smiling in amusement.

Stormstrike scanned the entrance to the camp, hoping Mudfur, Piketooth or Timberfur would return and play with their kids. Willowbreeze had taken them on a hunting patrol- it was her first time leading one. They were fishing by Sunningrocks. He wondered if they were doing well.

“Come on!” Sun called. “Show us the left hook.”

“Your mother says you’re too young for battle moves,” Stormstrike reminded her.

Sun glared at her mother. “Ottersplash doesn’t think we’re too young.”

“They’re never too young to start training!” Ottersplash called from the nursery.

Lakeshine shot her a sharp look. “I don’t want them to get hurt.”

“They’re kids, Lakeshine,” Ottersplash argued. “They’re going to hurt themselves even if you wrap them in feathers.”

Shimmerpelt shook her head. “They’ll be apprentices in a few months, anyway,” she said. “There’s no rush.”

“What if the townsfolk invade camp?” Loud asked.

“They won’t,” Stormstrike reassured him. More cabins were being build in the field, but construction had stopped now that the weather was getting colder. “Hey, Oakheart!” He called to his brother, who was just getting back from a border patrol. “What do you think? Will townsfolk invade camp?”

Oakheart laughed sharply. “Never! They won’t even wander into the swamp without getting scared.” Oakheart had been assigned to patrol the field and watch the construction. He checked on them daily, monitoring their progress. He’d started inventing strategies for keeping them away, and he knew how to get an entire patrol around the field without being caught.

Leopard stared up at Stormstrike. “Please teach us a battle move?” Her dark eyes were wide.

Stormstrike smiled. The whole Clan spoiled the motherless girl, especially Mudfur, who doted on her relentlessly. She had everyone in the Clan wrapped around her finger.

Leopard smiled sweetly. “Please?”

“Don’t you dare!” Shimmerpelt growled, bustling over to shoo Leopard off. “Mudfur would be horrified to find her fighting!”

Leopard had everyone wrapped around her finger, except for Shimmerpelt.

“Come on!” Sun pleaded.

“We could creep up on Oakheart!” Stormstrike proposed. “See if you can get to him without him noticing.”

Oakheart shook his head. “Sorry, Stormstrike, but we’re going back out.” He headed for the camp entrance, along with Petaldust and Whitefang.

Black grumbled. “Can we stalk you instead?” he asked Stormstrike.

Without waiting for an answer, all of them dived at him at once. Stormstrike staggered in shock, collapsing under them. The children laughed as they pounded him, although their punches hardly hurt.

“Look!” Sky’s excited squeak made them pause.

“Dad’s back!” Frog shouted in delight.

They scrambled off Stormstrike and charged for the firepit.

“Did you bring me a carp?” Leopard asked as her father approached.

Stormstrike sat up, sighing in relief. “Finally.”

Willowbreeze, Mudfur and Timberfur were stacking their catches beside the firepit. Piketooth dropped his trout and turned in surprise as the children raced at him.

“Careful!” Mudfur yelped.

Willowbreeze crossed the clearing to Stormstrike. “It looks like we got back just in time,” she laughed. “You were nearly devoured by a school of starving kids.” Her finger's brushed his arm.

He sidestepped.

“What’s wrong?” Willowbreeze’s eyes flashed with hurt.

“Not here.”

He could feel Shimmerpelt and Lakeshine staring at them, storing up the gossip. He’d grown closer and closer to Willowbreeze ever since she became a warrior, but he hated how the Clan watched them. He knew they were waiting for them to announce their unionship.

He wished they’d just mind their own business.

“Alright.” Willowbreeze stepped away from him.

Stormstrike glanced at her apologetically. “Let’s go for a walk,” he suggested. Now that Timberfur and Piketooth were back, there was no need to watch the kids.

Willowbreeze headed for the entrance. They walked out in silence.

“Why are you so embarrassed?” Willowbreeze turned on him. “Do you not like me?”

“No! I mean, yes! I mean, I do like you. I think,” he stuttered out. "I just...I don’t want everyone to think I’m soft.” He stared at the ground.

“It’s not soft to have feelings for someone else!” Willowbreeze challenged. “Do you think Hailstar’s soft? Or Cedarpelt? Or Timberfur? They all have wives.”

“I’m sorry,” Stormstrike murmured. He stepped around a hawthorn bush and walked into an alder grove. Red leaves littered the ground. “When you were an apprentice, I used to love helping you train.”

“Okay.” Willowbreeze followed him. “I did, too.”

“I could spend all day with you,” Stormstrike said. “It was the most fun I’ve ever had.”

“So now you don’t want it?”

“No, I want to spend every moment of my life with you,” he said. “But I can’t work if I’m with you. I have to serve the Clan. It’s all part of being a good warrior. I can’t sit and watch kids play like Cedarpelt and Ottersplash. I need to be out, doing stuff!”

Willowbreeze frowned at him. “We don’t have to have a family. I just...want to be with you.”

Stormstrike closed his eyes. He wanted that, too. But what he wanted didn’t matter. He had to focus on the Clan, putting them above all else.

He felt a hand on his cheek and opened his eyes. Willowbreeze was staring at him, her eyes filled with love and hurt. “I love you, Stormstrike. I always have. Even when I was little, I was so afraid in WindClan, because you weren’t there for me.”

“You can make it without me,” Stormstrike reasoned. “You’re so strong, and smart. Smarter than me.”

“Don’t say that!” she said. “You’re one of the most clever warriors in the Clan.”

Stormstrike wondered if he should tell her about Mapleshade and his destiny. No, Willowbreeze would just think he was crazy. Besides, he didn’t need to tell her. He could show her by becoming the best leader RiverClan had ever seen.

“I’m happy when I’m with you,” he admitted. “I love you, too.”

Willowbreeze smiled. She reached up to press a kiss to his twisted jaw. His heart soared with love. Willowbreeze had never judged him for his looks, for his past mistakes. Even though his mother tried to make him feel unlovable, Willowbreeze had shone he was worth it.

Suddenly, a cold breeze lifted his hair. A voice sounded in his ear.

“Don’t forget your promise!” Mapleshade hissed.

Stormstrike closed his eyes, leaning his head against Willowbreeze’s shoulder. Mapleshade was wrong. Having a wife wouldn’t stop him from being a great leader. Hailstar had Echomist, and three children of his own. They hadn’t distracted him for being loyal. If anything, having a family to protect had made him more willing to fight.

“Do you hear that?” Willowbreeze raised her head.

A bear roared upstream. Shouts exploded nearby. It must have encountered a patrol.

“I need to help!” Stormstrike raced for the slope.

“Be careful!” Willowbreeze called.

Leaping over the hawthorns, Stormstrike spotted Whitefang and Petaldust chasing a bear cub.

He charged after them. “Steer it away from camp!” he shouted.

Whitefang veered off, flanking the cub and driving it away from camp. They chased it up the slope. Stormstrike’s heart thudded with excitement as he whipped around the bushes, keeping the cub in sight. Ahead, Whitefang and Petaldust regrouped, steering it toward the marsh. As they broke from the trees, the cub glanced over its shoulder. Its eyes gleamed with terror and it cried out. Pounding the earth desperately, it fled past the beech copse and into the long grass.

“Keep going!” Stormstrike called.

Whitefang leaped over a clump of sedges and Petaldust followed. The ground flashed beneath Stormstrike as he raced after them. They crossed the marsh, driving the bear toward the shore. Petaldust splashed into the shallows, keeping pace as the cub hurtled away, sending stones skidding under its huge paws. Whitefang raced along the bank, keeping his arms spread to cage the bear cub.

Stormstrike stayed at the rear, blocking the bear. The cub inched away from him, whining with terror. At first, Stormstrike was tempted to let it go. It was just a baby, no real threat to the Clan.

But one day, it wouldn’t be a cub. It would be a fully grown, ferocious bear.

Stormstrike raised his spear over his head and stabbed it into the cub’s skull, piercing its brain and killing it quickly. It felt little pain.

“Nice work,” Whitefang said as the cub fell to the ground, limp. “Forget Crooked, we should rename you to Bearslayer!”

“Do you think the elders will weave its pelt into your cloak?” Petaldust asked.

Stormstrike looked over his shoulder at his cloak. It was already heavy and thick from the first bear he’d killed. Any more and it would be too heavy to swim with on. “No, I don’t think so. Maybe I’ll give it to my brother as a gift. Where is he, by the way?”

“You didn’t see him?” Petaldust asked, surprised. “He was heading your way. He said he’d seen ThunderClan warriors near Sunningrocks and wanted to investigate.”

Stormstrike frowned. “Alone?”

“That’s what he wanted.” Whitefang shrugged. “He told us to check the field and that he’d catch up later.”

“I’ll check on him.” Stormstrike frowned. What was his brother thinking, taking on an enemy patrol by himself?

He left Petaldust and Whitefang to drag the cub back to camp. Meanwhile, he went back to the alders. Willowbreeze had already got back to camp, but Oakheart was passing through.

“What are you doing?”

Oakheart spun around, eyes wide, clearly startled. He was still soaked from swimming.

“Are you okay?” Stormstrike asked. “Whitefang said you saw ThunderClan warriors.”

“Just one warrior.” Oakheart shrugged casually, heading for camp. “I chased her off.”

Stormstrike paused. “It didn’t happen to be Blueflower, did it?”

Oakheart blushed. “Yeah. So?”

Stormstrike was surprised by his brother’s bashfulness. Was he hiding something? “Did you have to fight? Did she beat you?”

Oakheart turned toward camp. “I drove her back into the forest. It wasn’t that big of a deal.”

“What about your patrol?” Stormstrike followed his brother. “They chased a bear cub all the way to the river. They were waiting for you.”

Oakheart paused, then spun around. “The patrol! I completely forgot!” He headed upriver.

Stormstrike cocked his head. It wasn’t like Oakheart to be so reserved. Or forgetful. Perhaps the fight had been tougher than he’d like to admit. Stormstrike looked him up and down. He didn’t appear to have any injuries.

Oakheart was a great warrior, Stormstrike knew. He’d be fine. He wondered if Willowbreeze wanted to go for a proper walk.

Chapter Text

“Mapleshade!”

Stormstrike walked through the forest. His feet sank into the muddy ground.

“Mapleshade?”

Where was she? He knew this was StarClan’s gloomy forest. He hadn’t seen her since confessing his love to Willowbreeze. Was she angry at him?

“Higher!”

A shout cut through the mist.

“Faster! Do you want to die at the hands of a common warrior?”

Stormstrike heard a grunt followed by a loud thud as a body hit the earth. He crept forward slowly, ducking behind a tree. Two figures moved around a narrow clearing.

The mentor was someone Stormstrike didn’t recognize. A man with messy black hair. The second was a more muscular, broad shouldered man that Stormstrike vaguely recognized.

“Again!” the mentor growled. “Better, this time!”

The younger man braced himself, then jumped, higher than Stormstrike had ever seen someone jump. He twisted in midair, spinning his legs in a double kick. He hit the ground with a thump, landing on one ankle and crumpling to the ground clumsily.

The mentor was on his apprentice in an instant, slapping him over the head over and over again. He nailed a hit to the man’s face, spraying blood from his split lip. The apprentice struggled away and caught his mentor’s wrist, twisting it.

“Better!” the man cheered.

Blood welled from the younger man’s lip. He had scars all over his wrists and face.

“Let me try again, Silverhawk,” the apprentice growled.

Stormstrike swallowed. And he though his training sessions with Mapleshade had been brutal, but she’d never hit him like that. These two acted as though shedding blood was a tradition.

Suddenly, the younger man’s name flashed into Stormstrike’s mind. Thistleclaw! He was a warrior from ThunderClan.

Thistleclaw took another run up, jumped, and twisted. This time, he landed in a crouch and sprang back up. “Yes! I did it!” he cheered.

Silverhawk nodded. “Well done, Thistleclaw.”

“My time has finally come,” Thistleclaw said. “By next month, I’ll be deputy.”

“Are you sure Sunstar won’t want to choose Blueflower?” Silverhawk asked.

Thistleclaw rolled her eyes. “He’d be an idiot to choose her. She’s still sobbing over her stupid sister.”

“Grief can bring strength,” Silverhawk warned. “Snowfur was your wife. Aren’t you upset?”

“Of course I’m upset!’ Thistleclaw growled. "Snowfur shouldn’t have died! It should have been Blueflower!”

“What about your son?” Silverhawk pressed.

Thistleclaw scoffed. “He takes after his mother. Soft, weak and dimwitted.” He glared at his mentor. “Why are we standing around talking? I came here to train.”

Stormstrike backed away, feeling cold. He’d never seen someone so be so cruel. He turned and ran, scanning the trees in hopes of finding Mapleshade. He leaped bushes and swerved around trees.

“Stormstrike!”

Someone was shaking him awake.

“What?” He lifted his head.

Willowbreeze sat beside him, her black hair ruffled from sleep. “You kicked me!” she whined. “Did you have a bad dream?”

“Yeah.” Stormstrike sat up. He’d switched places with Graypool, sharing a hut with Willowbreeze.

Willowbreeze pressed a kiss to his cheek. “Well, you’re awake now.” She stood up and walked out of the hut. Stormstrike followed. Why couldn’t he find Mapleshade? Had something happened to her? He thought people lived forever in StarClan.

Outside, Oakheart had sleepily emerged from his hut, closely followed by Graypool. Shellheart was beneath the willow, organizing the patrols. Cedarpelt, Timberfur, Mudfur and Petaldust crowded around him. Beetlenose was getting a drink from the river while Voleclaw started heating up what was left of the food storage.

Stormstrike walked across the clearing. “Can I go on a hunting patrol?” he asked his father. His breath billowed in the air. It was getting colder.

Shellheart nodded. “Take Mudfur and Petaldust.” He waved the two warriors off.

“Can Oakheart come, too?” Stormstrike asked.

Oakheart looked up. “I’m coming where now?”

“Hunting.”

“Sounds good!" Oakheart stood up to join them.

Birdsong ducked out of the elder’s hut and walked down the slope. She yelped, nearly falling as she slid on the frost. She laughed as she reached the bottom. “The kids will have fun today. They’ve got an ice slide.”

“Slide?” Frog was already tearing across the clearing. He bounded up the slope, then plopped down and slide to the bottom, laughing with delight.

Stormstrike laughed. “Hey, Willowbreeze!” he called. “Do you want to join my hunting patrol?”

She shook her head. “I promised grandma I’d help clean out her hut. It was so cold last night, the elders nearly froze.”

“Come on, Stormstrike!” Mudfur was pacing by the entrance, shivering.

“Bye.” Stormstrike pressed a quick kiss to Willowbreeze’s cheek then hurried after the others. Outside the camp, the air was even colder.

“I hope this is just a flurry,” Petaldust sighed. “It’s hardly even Autumn.”

They passed the stepping stones and followed the shore downstream, past the alder grove and along the bank where ferns and hawthorns grew right up to the shore. Splashing through the shallows, Stormstrike led the way to a rocky outcrop that jutted out of the river. The rocks smoothed into a flat stretch of stone just a length above the water.

Stormstrike sat close to the edge and peered into the swirling river. It was deep and clear. He could see the weeds streaming against the riverbed. A fish slid past, too deep to reach. He got his spear ready, waiting for it to move closer to the surface. Excitement flashed through him and he plunged his spear into the water. He stabbed the fish and threw it onto the stone. Then, he turned back for another.

“Nice catch.” Oakheart crouched sat beside him. He stared into the water as it rolled past them, grip tight on his sickle. Then, he struck the water, flashing a trout onto the stone. Stormstrike stabbed it as it tried to flop back toward the water.

Mudfur leaned over the water. “I watch to catch a carp for Leopard,” he murmured. “It’s her favorite.”

Petaldust held her sickle over the water, then struck. She managed to hook a huge pike, ripping it from the water. It was as long as her forearm. As Petaldust tried to wrestle it down, she lost balance and tumbled into the water. As she bobbed, gasping, to the surface, Stormstrike stabbed the pike.

Petaldust climbed back onto the rock, dripping wet. “Good catch.”

“You caught it,” Stormstrike assured. “I just killed it.”

Oakheart smirked. “If you wanted to go swimming, you should have just said so.”

Petaldust unclipped her waterlogged cloak. “I didn’t think it would be so big!”

Mudfur gave a triumphant call as he fished out a carp.

“Let’s get back to camp,” Stormstrike suggested. “Then we can come back for more.”

Petaldust stared across the river into ThunderClan’s forest. “Why don’t they fish like us? The river is always plentiful.”

Mudfur shrugged. “They must be scared of the water. Not many of them know how to swim.”

“I don’t see any new markers on the border,” Oakheart said. “I wonder where they are. There’s usually a warrior heckling us while we fish.”

Stormstrike remembered his dream. “Maybe someone died.”

Oakheart blinked. “Why would you think that?”

Stormstrike’s thoughts whirled as he tried to think of an excuse. He shrugged. “We get quiet whenever someone dies. Maybe they do the same.”

“I hope everyone’s alright,” Oakheart said. “Did you know Blueflower lost her mother in a battle with WindClan? I can’t imagine how upsetting that must have been.”

Stormstrike glanced at his brother. “Yeah,” he said slowly. He picked up the fish and hopped off the rock. The rest of the patrol followed him to the camp.

Chapter Text

Fourtrees was lit by a cold white moon. Stormstrike gazed at it through the bare branches. Silverpelt painted the night sky. He wondered which one was Snowfur. It had been a few weeks since she’d died.

“I hear fishing is still good,” Hollyflower said. She was sharing ShadowClan news with a group of warriors.

“Yes, it is,” Stormstrike said.

Foxheart shivered. “The river must be so cold. How can you stand it?”

“RiverClan would swim under ice for a good meal,” Goldenflower murmured. Her eyes were dark as she stared across the clearing. Stormstrike followed her gaze and saw Blueflower, who was talking to Oakheart. He must be offering his sympathies. News of Snowfur’s death had quickly spread. Goldenflower stood up. “I’m going to check on Blueflower.”

“Stormstrike!” Hailstar was approaching. "Where’s Oakheart? I want him to tell the Gathering about his tactics against the townsfolk. The other towns might be expanding their land as well.”

Stormstrike felt a flash of worry. Was Hailstar preparing his brother to be RiverClan’s next deputy? Oakheart had all the marks of a good leader; Confident, clever and popular among his Clanmates. Stormstrike pointed across the clearing. “He’s over there.”

“Thanks.” Hailstar walked off.

While the leaders made their reports, Stormstrike sat with his Clanmates. He pulled his cloak around himself, glad for the thick bear pelt. He studied Oakheart through narrowed eyes as his brother waited calmly at the foot of the Great Rock. Stormstrike swallowed back his jealously.

“RIverClan has also enjoyed plenty of food recently.” Hailstar had began his report. “The river is full of fish.” He glanced down at Oakheart. “The only problem we’ve had has been townsfolk building more houses at the edge of the marsh. Oakheart has more information.”

Murmurs of surprise rippled through the crowd as Oakheart climbed onto the Great Rock.

“The Great Rock is for leaders!” someone growled. “Not young warriors.”

Stormstrike raised his chin, suddenly defensive of his brother. “Hush! He has something important to say!”

“I’m sorry,” Okaheart began, voice loud and clear. “I don’t belong up here, but I was afraid you all wouldn’t be able to hear me from down there. I hope you’ll forgive my boldness. I don’t mean to offend.”

Stormstrike nodded, proud of his younger brother. The crowd had quieted down, eager to hear what Oakheart had to say. He glanced around at his brother’s success. When he spotted Blueflower, however, he frowned. She was scowling. Beside her, a pretty young girl was staring at Oakheart with shining eyes.

Oakheart looked like a leader on the Great Rock. Stormstrike shifted, uncomfortable. He was the one with a great destiny, right?

Stormstrike hardly paid attention as Oakheart spoke. He already knew all of it. He kept his eyes on the crowd, watching as people reacted to his brother’s words. Some of them were nodding in agreement, others staring at him with admiration. Very few seemed to show hostility besides Blueflower. Oakheart had softened them.

The journey home seemed longer than usual.

Petaldust walked beside Oakheart. “Everyone was listening to you!” Her eyes shone. “Weren’t you scared?”

Voleclaw rolled his eyes. “Scared of what? There’s a truce.”

“But you had to speak in front of so many people!” Petaldust shuddered. “I could never do that.”

Stormstrike slowed his pace, falling behind his Clanmates as they walked along ThunderClan’s forest. He didn’t want to hear about how great Oakheart had been.

Brambleberry dropped back to walk beside him. “You’re jealous, aren’t you?” she murmured.

Stormstrike glared at her. “No!”

She hufffed. “Don’t worry, you’ll get your turn.”

“How do you know?” Stormstrike looked at her. “Did you have an omen?” As soon as he said it, he regretted it. Brambleberry wouldn’t tell him anyway.

Brambleberry remained silent.

“How do you know?” Stormstrike growled again.

Brambleberry stepped over a fallen tree that blocked their path. She turned back to look at him. “Nothing’s for certain.” Her eyes were dark. “You have the potential to be a great warrior. Everyone knows that.” She looked at the overlapping branches. “But the stars don’t have to decide everything for us.”

Stormstrike wondered if she’d still say that if she knew who was training him.

Chapter Text

Fine snow drifted down from the wide gray sky, settling into camp. Stormstrike winced. His twisted jaw always ached when the weather changed, but he could hardly feel it. He was too excited. He sat with his Clanmates, lining the edge of the clearing, hair dusted with snow as Hailstar called forward the next new apprentice.

“Sedge.” The RiverClan leader beckoned the brunette girl forward.

Black, Sky, Frog, Sun, Loud and Reed fidgeting behind him, eyes shining as they admired their new mentors. Hailstar had waited until all of them were old enough to become apprentices before having the ceremony. They’d grown so close, there was no sense in splitting them up.

“Your mentor will be Stormstrike,” Hailstar said, throwing a brown cloak over her shoulders. “Let him share his courage, skill and loyalty with you.”

Stormstrike walked into the clearing and leaned down to press his forehead to his new apprentice’s. She was trembling. “Don’t worry,” he whispered. “I’ll make you a fine warrior.”

He looked up to see Oakheart standing beside his own apprentice, Loud. The young boy was fidgeting, desperate for the ceremony to finish so they could start training. Oakheart put a hand on his shoulder to calm him.

They were finally mentors.

Hailstar cleared his throat. “There is one last apprentice to welcome,” he announced.

At the edge of the clearing, Mudfur was still trying to clean Leopard up, combing her hair and fixing her clothes.

She struggled away from him. “Stop it, dad!” she squeaked. “It’s my turn!”

Eyes misted with pride, he let her go. She dashed across the clearing.

“Leopard.” Hailstar smiled down at her. He threw a cloak over her shoulders. It was golden, spotted with black spots like a leopard’s pelt. “Your mentor will be Whitefang.”

Leopard’s eyes widened as the tall man walked toward her. He pressed his forehead to hers.

“I hope I can be as big as you,” she murmured.

Whitefang laughed. “We’ll see.”

Hailstar continued. “Whitefang, share with her your courage, discipline and compassion.”

The Clan cheered for all eight of the new apprentices. Sedge and Loud raced to Ottersplash excitedly while Timberfur congratulated Reed. Shimmerpelt hugged Sky as Piketooth threw Black onto his shoulders. Lakeshine and Cedarpelt cooed over Frog and Sun. Leopard raced back to Mudfur, his arms open in an embrace.

Mudfur’s eyes were dark with worry. “I hope you never have to battle.”

“I do!” she said. “I can’t wait for my first battle!”

Stormstrike moved away from the mayhem.

Willowbreeze took his arm. “Scared?” she teased.

“Never.”

“An apprentice is a big responsibility.” She frowned. “I wish I had one.”

Stormstrike smiled. “You’ll get your own soon.”

Owlfur was teasing Softwing about her new apprentice, Sky. “She’ll talk your ear off.”

Softwing rolled her eyes. “I can handle her.”

Owlfur glanced at the little brown haired girl chatting with Cedarpelt. “You think?”

“Can I see the territory?” Sedge’s voice sounded from behind Stormstrike. He turned to see her standing behind him, new brown cloak already powdered with snow.

Stormstrike felt a surge of excitement. “Of course!”

“I want to go!” Frog said.

“Me too!” Black stared hopefully at his mentor, Hailstar.

“I want to be the first to cross the stepping stones,” Sun said.

“I’ll get there first!” Sky challenged.

Loud pushed between them. “I’m going to be the first to climb Sunningrocks.”

Reed laughed. “We’ll be the best warriors in RiverClan!”

Beetlenose nodded. “You’ll be the best warrior of any Clan once I’ve finished training you.” He glanced at Stormstrike. “I hope Sedge makes it to being a warrior.”

Stormstrike rolled his eyes. “If you want to make this a competition, Beetlenose, then fine. But I’m going to focus on making my apprentice the best warrior she can be. You should do the same.” He turned away. “Oakheart, do you want to come with us?”

“Yes, please!” Loud said, looking at Oakheart.

Oakheart nodded. “Sure.”

Reed gazed hopefully at Beetlenose. “Can we go, too?”

“You can come if you want,” Stormstrike offered.

Beetlenose sniffed. “Fine.”

Ottersplash was waiting by the camp entrance. “You’ll be careful, won’t you?” she asked.

“Of course,” Stormstrike promised. He hurried out of camp. The new apprentices pushed past their mentors, racing down the bank. They made it to the stepping stones first. Oakheart jogged to keep up with them. Beetlenose and Stormstrike let him chase the apprentices, catching up at the stones. Snow was piling against the bank, turning the Sunningrocks white across the river. The river still flowed smoothly, not frozen yet.

“Can we swim across?” Loud asked. “We’ve gone swimming in the reed bed before.”

“It’s too cold,” Stormstrike said. “You’ll freeze before you make it to the shore.”

Sedge jumped onto the first stepping stone. “We’re going to cross, right?”

Oakheart shook his head. “We can visit Sunningrocks another day. For now, let’s show you the willow copse where we train.”

Reed walked beside Beetlenose. “Will we see the new houses?”

“What if we see someone from town?” Sedge’s eyes were round.

“We’ll deal with it when we see them.” Beetlenose headed down shore, crunching the snow beneath him. Loud, Sedge and Reed hurried after him.

“Were we that excitable?” Oakheart fell in beside Stormstrike.

Sedge’s head snapped around to a face a tree. A bird was hopping from branch to branch, sending snow fluttering down. “What kind of bird is that?”

“A mistle thrush,” Stormstrike said.

“Do we eat it?”

“If the river freezes, then yes.”

“What else do we eat? Deer? Rabbit? Have you ever eaten rabbit? What does it taste like? Mom said Willowbreeze ate rabbit when she-”

Oakheart cut her off. “Look!” He pointed to her brothers, who were rounding a bend in the river with Beetlenose. “You’d better catch up before they have all the fun.”

Sedge hurried after Loud and Reed.

Stormstrike smiled. “They’ll definitely keep us entertained.” He followed Oakheart downstream. Sedge already seemed like fun.

“Is this how to stalk?” Sedge was waiting at the bend, crouching in the grass.

“Not bad,” Stormstrike said.

Oakheart headed on to catch up with the others.

“When will you teach me to fish?” Sedge asked. “What’s the easiest fish to catch? What was your first fish?”

Stormstrike’s head was spinning. “Slow down,” he said.

“Sorry!” Sedge squeaked. “I just want to be the best warrior I can be. I’m so glad you’re my mentor. You’re the strongest warrior in RiverClan! Well, my dad says Rippleclaw is the best warrior, but he’s old! I’m going to listen to everything you say, I promise!”

Stormstrike suddenly felt guilty. He’d never been this enthusiastic with Cedarpelt. He’d valued with mentor’s training, but Mapleshade had taught him everything he knew about fighting and leadership. He gazed at Sedge, drowning out her chatter. Did she have a StarClan mentor as well?

Probably not. Stormstrike was the one with the special destiny.

Chapter Text

Summer came fast and hit hard. The sun shone from the wide blue sky and the beech copse swayed with the breeze. Sedge crouched in the clearing, holding her spear to one side.

“Stay quiet.” Stormstrike dropped a leaf a length away from her, letting it flutter to the ground. “Pretend this is a bird. It has better hearing than you. It’s faster than you. And it’s very afraid of you.”

Sedge narrowed her eyes. She held her spear over her shoulder. Stormstrike nodded for her to continue. Her stance was perfect.

She threw the spear.

“Did I get it?” She stood up.

Stormstrike’s heart sank. She’d overshot it, the spear jutting out of the ground two lengths away.

Oakheart shrugged. “Good try.”

“You can do better.” Beetlenose emerged from the trees. Reed and Loud were sniffling laughs behind him. He glared at them. “Sedge, you have a good throwing arm.”

He glanced at Stormstrike, silently asking permission to give his apprentice advice.

Stormstrike nodded. He could use help in training Sedge. She was so full of enthusiasm, it was painful to watch her fail even the smallest of tasks. She listened carefully and memorized everything they said, but she just couldn’t get the hang of it in the field.

Beetlenose picked up the leaf. “You need to take the wind and your strength into account.” He dropped the leaf in front of her. “Keep your eyes on your target. Aim.”

Sedge crouched again.

“That leaf is more likely to get her than she is to get it,” Reed murmured.

Sedge threw her spear again. It stabbed right through the leaf. She gasped and stood up. “I did it!”

Reed rolled his eyes. “Can we go fishing now?” he asked. “It’s hot out here.”

“You need to learn to hunt birds,” Stormstrike reminded him.

Loud huffed. “I want to learn battle moves! We need to win back Sunningrocks!”

ThunderClan had finally reset their borders, at the very start of spring. Hailstar had refused to risk lives seizing it back while the Clan was still recovering from the winter.

Oakheart sighed. “Perhaps we should make another treaty,” he suggest. “It worked fine last time. And ThunderClan needs the hunting grounds in the winter.”

“What?” Beetlenose stared at him. “They thought we were weak for doing that!”

“Yeah!” Reed stood beside his mentor. “They’ve got a whole forest! They can find other places to hunt.”

“My father's been trying to get Hailstar to reclaim it for months,” Stormstrike said. “I don’t know why he won’t. It was easy last time.”

“Please teach us battle moves!” Loud begged. “Maybe he’s waiting for us apprentices to be ready for a fight!”

Sedge frowned. “But my arm still hurts from last time.”

“You should learn to move quicker,” Reed teased.

“I move quicker than you!” Sedge retorted.

Stormstrike sighed. He walked to the edge of the beech copse and looked across the meadow. “Okay, let’s try some moves.”

“Actually, I think we should show them how to climb,” Oakheart suggested, nodding at the slender beech trees.

Beetlenose blinked in surprise. “Climb? As in climbing trees?”

Oakheart was already at the base of a tree. “It’s one of the safest places to be. Besides, Echomist noticed another bear had moved into the marsh a few weeks ago.”

Sedge shuddered. “It’s so big! I could see it from the willow in camp.”

Stormstrike patted her back. “We’re lucky Echomist had noticed it and lured it away from camp.”

“Alright, fine,” Beetlenose growled, walking to the base of a trunk. “We’ll practice tree climbing. Reed, you first. I’ll follow.”

Reed jumped and grabbed the first branch. He hauled himself onto it and reached for another. It wobbled beneath him.

“Your turn.” Stormstrike moved to another beech, beckoning for Sedge.

She stared at him, eyes wide. “Are you sure about this?”

“You can do it,” Stormstrike encouraged. “Just keep your grip firm.”

She leaped and hung to the branch.

“Keep going!” Stormstrike urged. “If you can climb the willow in camp, you can climb a beech.”

Sedge pulled herself up, gaining confidence with each branch.

“Perfect!” Stormstrike climbed after her, moving easily up the tree. He peered through the fluttering leaves, just barely making out Sedge through the branches. “Stop on the next branch,” he called.

“Okay!” Her voice sounded far away.

“Please be careful,” Stormstrike called. She’d gone rather high.

“I can see her!” Beetlenose’s voice sounded from the next tree over. “She’s fine.”

Reed sat next to his mentor on a branch near the center of the trunk. “Can I go that high?”

“No.”

Oakheart was still on the ground, trying to push Loud up the tree.

“I don’t want to climb!” Loud complained. “I want to swim!”

“You need to know how to do both,” Oakheart said. “If you’re strong enough to swim, you’re strong enough to climb.”

“Stormstrike!” Sedge wailed from above.

He looked up. “What’s wrong?”

“Stormstrike!” she wailed again.

Panicked, Stromstrike climbed higher. “I’m coming!” Had she climbed to high? Perhaps she’d found a bee hive or a magpie nest. The ground was so far away, if either of them fell, they wouldn’t get out of it in one piece.

“I can see the bear!” Sedge cried. “It’s huge! It’s coming this way!”

Stormstrike peered out through the branches. The meadow stretched far below them. A huge brown shape was pounding across the earth. Stormstrike glanced toward camp. It was hidden well on the lone island, but if the bear kept charging, it might burst right through the wall.

Stormstrike scrambled down the tree.

“Stay up there!” he shouted to Sedge. “Don’t come down until I tell you!”

“Did you see it?” Beetlenose was still on his branch.

“Yeah,” Stormstrike said. “It’s heading this way. We have to keep it away from camp.”

“What about the apprentices?”

“They can stay in the trees.”

Reed was standing on his branch, arms above his head, holding onto the next one. “Can’t we help?”

“You’re not ready to fight a bear,” Stormstrike said.

Oakheart was still trying to persuade Loud up the tree.

“Carry him up if you have to,” Stromstrike ordered. “Quickly! The bear is heading straight for us.”

Loud scrambled to the first branch, Oakheart pushing him from behind. Slowly, he grappled his ways up the trunk.

“Keep going!” Oakheart urged.

Loud fought his way onto a thick low branch.

Oakheart faced Stormstrike. “What should we do?”

“We need to get its attention,” Stormstrike said. “We can distract it in the meadow.”

Beetlenose joined them. “Then what?”

“We lead it uphill, away from camp,” Stormstrike decided. “If it runs out of our territory, good. If it doesn’t, we kill it.” He stiffened. “One of us needs to get back to camp and warn everyone.”

“I’ll go!” Reed moved down the tree.

Beetlenose spun around. “Don’t move!”

But Reed had already jumped to the ground and raced away.

“At least he’s fast,” Beetlenose muttered. “He’ll make it.”

“Good.” Stormstrike scanned the meadow. The bear was pounding closer. “Come on.” He raced down the slope and into the tall grass toward the bear. Oakheart and Beetlenose followed him.

They skidded out of the grass. The bear flashed past them. He swerved and followed it back to the beeches. Beetlenose pulled away.

“Let’s take it around the beech copse,” Beetlenose shouted.

They pulled ahead of the bear, trying to get in front of it. As soon as it got sight of them, it let out a loud roar, pounding the earth harder in an effort to catch them. It was huge, taller than any of them. Its shoulders were wide and made of pure muscle.

Stormstrike turned as they neared the beeches. The marsh soon gave way to hard earth. Bursting out of the mud, Stromstrike saw Oakheart zigzagging between the willow trees.

“Split up!” Stormstrike shouted.

Oakheart veered up the slope as Beetlenose shot ahead. Stormstrike swerved toward the river, taking a path away from camp. He glanced back to see the bear had chosen him to follow. Flying past camp, he weaved through the blur of trees. The bear thundered after him, grunting with the effort of the run. Stormstrike skidded on wet moss and lurched forward, fighting to keep his footing. He could feel the bear’s hot breath on his back. Terror made his legs move faster.

The camp was behind him now. Stormstrike headed downhill, gaining speed. The bear followed, but slid on the grass and crashed onto its side. Stormstrike raced down the slope. He could see the river glittering through the willows. If he could just make it to the water, he could escape. The bear was back on its paws and pounding after him. Stromstrike brought it through the willows and onto the shore.

Rainflower was standing near the rocks at the water’s edge, crouched as she waited for a fish to swim by. She spun around, eyes wide with terror.

“Bear!” Stormstrike turned and raced back up the slope. He couldn’t let the bear reach the shore. He spotted it hurtling through the willows and shouted to get its attention. The bear turned when it spotted him, but its weight had already carried it through the willows. It burst onto the shore.

Rainflower screamed in terror.

Stormstrike whipped around just in time to see his mother plummet into the water. The bear stopped, eyes glittering with surprise. Its gaze lit up.

Stormstrike leaped on the bear. It threw him off and gave chase again. Stromstrike hauled himself up the hill. He felt the ground shaking beneath his feet. The bear was gaining on him.

Oakheart burst out of the hawthorns. “Go help mom!”

Beetlenose skidded out beside him. “We’ll take care of the bear.”

Stormstrike stepped out of the bear’s path and raced back down the hillside to scan the shore. His mother lay in the water against a jagged rock, the river sliding around her. Stormstrike darted down the bank and splashed into the shallows. He leaned forward and grabbed her cloak, dragging her out of the water.

“Leave her!” A sudden voice made him jump. Mapleshade! She was back? “Save your Clanmates!”

Red spiraled through the water. Rainflower must have gotten landed on a rock when the bear knocked her over. With a jolt of horror, Stormstrike realized her eyes were open and blank. He let her body fall to the pebbles and backed away. He needed to get Brambleberry!

Mapleshade’s figure appeared in front of him, transparent. He could see the reeds swishing behind her. “Go! You need to be there!”

Stormstrike hesitated.

Mapleshade glared at him. “Don’t you want to be a great warrior? Kill that bear!”

Stormstrike glanced at his mother. Her body was limp, water streaming from her cloak. He couldn’t do anything else for her. Taking a deep breath, he turned and ran up the bank. He caught up with his Clanmates on the other side of the hawthorn bushes. The bear was tiring, slowing its pace. Stromstrike raced past it and fell in beside Oakheart.

Oakheart glanced at him as they kept running.

The trees were thinning and the land flattened out as they approached the farm. They broke past the RiverClan border markers, leaving their territory. All three of them whirled around to face the bear. Leading it into town would cause even bigger problems.

They had to kill it.

However, as soon as they drew their weapons, the bear skidded to a halt. Its eyes glittered as it saw the blades and it reared away, pelting past them and toward the moor.

Triumph flared through Stormstrike. “We did it!” They all turned to stare as the bear ran away.

“It’s WindClan’s problem now,” Beetlenose said.

“Is mom okay?” Oakheart asked.

Stormstrike stared at his brother, all excitement leaving him. “I was too late,” he murmured.

“She’s dead?” Oakheart’s eyes widened. “Was it the bear?”

“It knocked her into the river.” Stormstrike stared at the ground. “She must have hit her head on a rock when she fell.”

Oakheart stiffened. “How do you know she wasn’t just stunned? Did you get Brambleberry? Maybe she’s awake now.”

“I...I left her by the river.”

“You left her?” Oakheart growled. “You didn’t even get Brambleberry?”

“There wasn’t time. I had to stop the bear.”

“We had it handled! I told you to help our mother.”

His brother’s voice hardened with rage. Stormstrike closed his eyes, feeling cold. Rainflower had been dead when he’d found her, right?
Right?

He blinked open his eyes in time to see Oakheart racing into the willows. Stormstrike followed.

Oakheart crouched over Rainflower. Her eyes were clouded. Blood stained the rocks under her head. “She’s dead.” Oakheart turned to stare at him. “Our mother is dead!”

Chapter Text

Rainflower laid in the moonlight, hands folded against her chest, flowers weaved into her black hair. Oakheart had carried her back to camp, glaring at Stormstrike every time he tried to help. Stromstrike sat outside his hut, watching as his Clanmates filed past his mother.

Echomist looked down at her old friend. “You were a loyal warrior.

“We’ll miss you,” Piketooth murmured.

Stormstrike’s eyes stung as he tried to hold back tears. Pain jabbed through his heart like thorns. His mother had died hating him. What if she blamed him for her death?

He should have gotten Brambleberry.

Oakheart sat on the far side of the clearing, flanked by Petaldust and Voleclaw. He stared ahead as Shimmerpelt walked away from Rainflower’s body to murmur something to him. Timberfur nodded in respect to the grief-stricken warrior.

Anger flashed through Stormstrike. Why had Rainflower loved Oakheart more? Stormstrike was older and bigger! He was the one with the great destiny. He would be leader of RiverClan.

He hoped Rainflower was in StarClan grieving, too, over how wrong she’d been.

Willowbreeze had walked away from the vigil to join him. She leaned against his shoulder. “She’ll watch over you from StarClan.”

Stormstrike’s throat tightened. No, she wouldn’t. She’d watch Oakheart. Rainflower would have let him die for a strawberry.

“You were very brave,” Willowbreeze told him. “Facing that bear.”

He should have saved his mother. The thought pounded in his head.

As the Clan dispersed, Shellheart stood up from his place beneath the willow. His eyes were glazed as he stared at his ex-wife. Stormstrike could see how pained he was. Although they were apart, he had never stopped loving her. Stiffly, he sat down beside Rainflower and turned his face to the stars. He looked old. Stormstrike blinked. He hadn’t noticed that his father’s black hair was starting to fall out, turning gray. He was on his sixty fourth year, as old as an elder.

Oakheart moved away from Petaldust and Voleclaw to join his father. He settled beside him, looking down at Rainflower. Clouds covered the moon, draping them in a silent shadow.

He wondered if Rainflower was watching them from StarClan. He wished he could tell her he was sorry. He shouldn’t have left her. Would Mapleshade explain why he had to leave her?

A wave of grief washed over him. He never should have snuck out of camp all those years ago. Then, he wouldn’t have broken his jaw, he wouldn’t have been apprenticed late, and his mother would have still loved him. Would it be any different? Would it had kept her alive?

He stared up at the sky. “I’m so sorry, mother,” he whispered. “Please forgive me.”

Willowbreeze pressed a kiss to his cheek, her eyes lit with sympathy.

Chapter Text

Dawn light filled the camp. The elders were taking Rainflower’s body away for burial. Shellheart and Oakheart watched, eyes glazed with sorrow and exhaustion. Finally, Oakheart dragged his feet to his hut and disappeared inside. Shellheart helped the elders managed Rainflower’s body.

Brambleberry emerged from her hut. She crossed the clearing and stopped in front of Stormstrike. He and Willowbreeze hadn’t moved all night, dozing at the edge of camp.

“She didn’t suffer,” Brambleberry murmured. “She was knocked unconscious. She wouldn’t have known what happened.”

Stormstrike’s eyes widened. “She was still alive?”

He felt as though a huge wave had demolished the walls in his heart. Tears rose to his eyes, falling down his cheeks before he could stop them. He turned away from Brambleberry, facing the wall of camp and burying his face in his hands. He felt sick.

He’d left his mother to die.

Willowbreeze was up in an instant. She squirmed her way against his chest, running her fingers through his hair and trying to soothe him.

“Let all those old enough to swim gather to hear my words!” Hailstar’s call sounded.

Stormstrike wiped his eyes. “Wh-what’s going on?”

“I don’t know.” Brambleberry sat down, content with sitting at the edge of camp for the meeting. “You don’t have to join them.”

Stormstrike felt gratitude for the healer. He didn’t want the Clan to see him cry. He sat down, Willowbreeze following.

Huts rustled and murmurs sounded as the Clan collected. Stormstrike turned his head away whenever someone walked by.

“We have been united in grief,” Hailstar began. “Now let us unite in victory. There is a stretch of land that belongs to RiverClan. It brings us warmth and shade. Now it’s time to take it back!”

“Sunningrocks!” Timberfur shouted. “Yes!”

Stormstrike scanned the clearing for his brother and father. Wouldn’t they want to hear this? But they were nowhere to be seen.

“I have already decided the patrol,” Hailstar called. “Stormstrike will lead it. Voleclaw and Mudfur will join him.”

Stormstrike noticed Mudfur stiffened. He was frowning.

Sedge raised her hand. “Can apprentices go?”

Hailstar shook his head. “I need strong, experienced warriors for this. If we meet a ThunderClan patrol, I want to feel confidence that none of my warriors will be hurt.”

“I can fight!” Black called.

“We want to join!” Sun shouted, glancing at Voleclaw. “If my mentor is going, why can’t I?”

“There will be more battles in the future,” Hailstar said. “This one will be clean and quick with no room for error.” He turned his head. “Owlfur will lead a second patrol with Softwing and Piketooth. While Stormstrike’s patrol swims across, you’ll use the stepping stones. Wait behind the rocks. If we meet resistance, we’ll need reinforcements.”

Stormstrike shuddered with excitement. He was leading a battle patrol!

Hailstar went on. “I pray there will be no bloodshed. We do not need anymore loss.”

Whispers of agreement spread through the Clan. Suddenly, Mudfur stood up. “Is it worth risking our lives again for a pile of rocks?”

Hailstar’s gaze sharpened. “Mudfur? Why are you objecting? You’ve always been in the front lines.”

Stormstrike narrowed his eyes. Mudfur was a fierce warrior, praised for his strength and bravery. The other Clans warned their apprentices not to anger him.

Mudfur nodded. “I don’t think this battle is worth it. We’ll only end up losing them again, then fighting again. This war will never end.”

Rippleclaw glared at him. “This is about honor. We can’t let ThunderClan steal Sunningrocks. They’ve belonged to RiverClan since the beginning of the Clans.”

“Will you refuse to join the patrol, Mudfur?” Hailstar asked.

“I’ll go,” Mudfur rasped. “My duty is to protect the Clan.”

Stormstrike stood up. He hoped his eyes didn’t look too red. “When do we leave?”

“Now.” Hailstar headed for the entrance. Voleclaw hurried to his side. Stormstrike fell in beside Mudfur.

“Are you sure you want to fight?” Stormstrike asked.

Mudfur glanced at him, a bundle of markers on his back. “I won’t refuse an order.”

Once at the shore, Softwing, Owlfur and Piketooth hurried to the stepping stones. Hailstar waded into the water and swam across. The sun wasn’t even over the trees yet. Sunningrocks was rosy white in the dim light. Dew was evaporating on the top most stones. Stromstrike walked into the river, refreshed by the cool tug. He pulled himself out on the other shore, following Hailstar up the rock.

The forest was dark beyond the sweep of smooth stone. Energy pulsed through him, pushing away his grief. If he could prove to Rainflower how well he could fight, perhaps she would forgive him.

Stormstrike moved down the far side of the rocks with Mudfur, while Hailstar and Voleclaw went the opposite way. They’d divided Mudfur’s bundle in half, each carrying an armful of carved sticks. Stormstrike went to the first oak tree and stabbed a marker into the ground. Mudfur put his near the bush beside it, then followed the border at the foot of the stones. They took turns with the markers until they met Hailstar in the middle.

“Is that it?” Voleclaw stared into the shadowy trees. “Why does ThunderClan want Sunningrocks anyway? I thought they lived the forest.”

“Sunningrocks is the only time they see the sun.” Stormstrike paused. The overgrowth was rustling beyond the tree line. He backed toward the rock. Mudfur held his ground, spear in hand.

“If they challenge us, lead them to the shore,” Hailstar murmured. “We can fight better near the water.”

Suddenly, Adderfang burst into the clearing. Stromstrike tensed.

“We knew you’d try to take them again,” he growled. Swiftbreeze, Smallear and Speckletail followed him out of the forest. “How many times do we have to beat you before you take the hint?”

Voleclaw glared at him. “We’ll win this time!” He glanced at Hailstar for the signal.

But Mudfur stepped forward first. “Stop!”

Stormstrike and Hailstar exchanged a glance. “Mudfur, what are you doing?”

Adderfang blinked. Swiftbreeze glanced around uneasily.

“Too much blood has been shed over these stones,” Mudfur declared.

Swiftbreeze smirked. “That sounds like a surrender.”

“No.” Mudfur looked over the ThunderClan warriors. “These rocks belong to ThunderClan. They always have, and they always will.”

“Never!” Adderfang roared. He drew his dagger. Stormstrike grabbed his own blade.

“Stop!” Mudfur stepped between them. “We’ll settle this one on one.” He glared at Adderfang. “Winner gets the rocks. Are you up for it?”

“Always!” Adderfang snapped. “I’ll represent ThunderClan and I’ll win.”

Hailstar glanced at Mudfur, then stepped forward. “Then it’s settled. Do you want to make sure Sunstar approves of this before we begin?”

“I’m the acting deputy while Tawnyspots is sick,” Adderfang growled.

Mudfur backed into the middle of the rocks. Adderfang followed, muscles rippling under his dark skin. Swiftbreeze, Smallear and Speckletail spread out to watch. Stromstrike joined Hailstar and Voleclaw as they lined up behind Mudfur. Fear flickered through him. This was worse than going into battle. Was he really expected to just sit here and watch? Adderfang could seriously harm Mudfur. He felt helpless.

Mudfur circled Adderfang, keeping his eyes on the younger warrior. He raised his hands and slammed his fists into the square of Mudfur’s spine. Mudfur darted away, pushing the ThunderClan warrior to the ground. They wrestled on the ground, Mudfur getting a good grip on Adderfang’s shoulders. Adderfang struggled free, twisting and crawling out from beneath Mudfur.

Mudfur stood to deliver another blow, but Adderfang was faster, aiming a punch at Mudfur’s stomach.

Swiftbreeze and Smallear darted out of the way as Mudfur fell back. Adderfang jumped on him, but Mudfur caught his fist. They slashed and punched at each other. Blood sprayed on the rocks and shouts filled the air.

Footsteps sounded on the rocks behind them. Stormstrike looked up to see Softwing, Owlfur and Piketooth hurrying toward them.

“Stay back!” he warned.

Piketooth cocked his head.

“Mudfur and Adderfang are fighting one on one,” Stormstrike explained.

Adderfang struck out fiercely, driving Mudfur back. The RiverClan warrior had a cut over his eye, the blood blinding him.

Stormstrike had to force himself not to intervened. He longed to join the fight and protect his Clanmates. But Mudfur was striking back. With a shout, he dove on Adderfang, tackling him to the ground and holding him there. Mudfur’s spear tip hit Adderfang’s throat, making the ThunderClan warrior incline his head.

“Surrender,” Mudfur growled.

Adderfang stared at him.

“Surrender!”

“Okay!” Adderfang’s throat pressed against the blade, making him wince.

Mudfur stood up. Blood streamed down his face and arms. He had a few spots on his shirt. Adderfang sat up, gasping for breath.

“Sunningrocks is ours!” Hailstar shouted.

The ThunderClan warriors gathered around Adderfang, helping their wounded Clanmate back into the trees. Stormstrike watched them disappear, feeling satisfied. Adderfang had underestimated Mudfur.

Mudfur, however, looked less triumphant. With a deep frown, he began limping toward the river.

Chapter Text

“What is wrong with you?” Rippleclaw was shouting at Mudfur while Brambleberry tended to his wounds. “You shouldn’t have fought alone! What if you’d been hurt?”

Mudfur gestured for Brambleberry to leave. “There was no point in anyone else getting hurt. Too much blood has been spilled over those rocks.” He glanced across the clearing to Leopard. “The war for Sunningrocks will never end. It’s bad enough that we fight, but then we teach our children to fight and watch proudly as they rip each other apart. Doesn’t that bother you?”

The other warriors gathered around Hailstar to hear his report. Stormstrike was glad he wasn’t the only one disturbed that Mudfur had fought alone. Even now, Mudfur refused to go to the healer’s hut, making Brambleberry treat him out here.

Timberfur was scowling. “Why did you let him fight alone?” he growled at Hailstar.

Hailstar met his gaze. “I trusted his strength.”

“He did win Sunningrocks for us,” Softwing pointed out.

“RiverClan has never fought that way,” Tanglewhisker called.

“And we shouldn’t start now,” Troutclaw put in.

“It’s cowardly!” Stormstrike called.

Mudfur whipped around to face him.

“I’m not calling you a coward,” Stormstrike said quickly. “I mean I felt like a coward watching you fight without helping.”

Shellheart stepped forward. “We can’t sit back and watch one warrior fight our battles for us.”

Hailstar’s gaze fell on Mudfur. “Did you doubt the courage of your Clanmates?”

“Of course not!” Mudfur said. “But I didn’t want to see any of them hurt.”

“We can’t let this happen again!” Cedarpelt called. “We are a Clan. We shouldn’t leave each other to fight alone.”

“Cedarpelt’s right.” Hailstar nodded. “Fighting side by side gives us strength.”

Ottersplash stood up. “Letting one warrior fight makes the rest of us look weak!”

“Mudfur showed great courage today, and RiverClan is grateful for that,” Hailstar said. “He returned Sunningrocks to their rightful owners. But from now on, we fight as a Clan. No warrior will ever go into battle alone.”

“RiverClan! RiverClan!” The Clan burst into cheers. Relief washed over Stormstrike as Mudfur finally relaxed, letting Brambleberry tend his wounds.

“Can we go to Sunningrocks?” Reed begged Beetlenose.

Sky bounced excitedly beside Softwing. “I’ve never been there!”

“Another day,” Softwing said. “Today, you need the clear out the elder’s hut.”

“Watch out, ThunderClan!” Sun called. “No one takes Sunningrocks and gets away with it?”

Stormstrike weaved around them toward Shellheart. “Are you okay?” His father was covered in grim, hair ruffled. He hadn’t bathed since Rainflower had died.

Shellheart nodded. “I’m fine.”

Stormstrike glanced at Oakheart’s hut. “I don’t think Oakheart will ever speak to me again.” His brother was still sleeping, unaware a battle had even taken place.

Shellheart put a hand on Stormstrike’s shoulder. “He’s just upset. It’ll pass.” He looked down. “Your mother used to be a very loving woman.”

“I know.” Pain jabbed through Stormstrike. Rainflower had once looked at him with so much pride.

“Hailstar!” Mudfur suddenly called.

Brambleberry was wrapping a bandage around his leg. “Hold still! Do you want to fall apart next time you go into battle?”

“That won’t happen,” Mudfur said calmly. “I don’t want to be a warrior anymore.”

Tanglewhisker and Troutclaw turned back from the bottom of the slope, eyes wide. Timberfur paused beside the firepit. Rippleclaw and Owlfur remerged from their hut.

Hailstar was still beneath the willow tree. “What do you mean, Mudfur? Are you saying you want to retire? You’re nearly a decade younger than me.”

Mudfur shook his head. “I don’t want to become an elder,” he explained. “I want to be a healer.”

Brambleberry stepped back. “A healer?”

Mudfur nodded. “If you’re willing to train me.”

“I was hoping for an apprentice to take interest,” she admitted. “But I could use another pair of hands.”

Hailstar stared at Mudfur. “Are you sure about this?”

Mudfur nodded. “I’ve lost the taste for battle. I thought I could save my Clanmates from harm by fighting for them, but they want to fight.” He sighed. “I’ve drawn blood far too many times. I want to save lives, not take them.”

“Can he do that?” Softwing leaned close to Timberfur. “Can we just change his status like that?”

Timberfur shrugged. “I don’t know. It’s never happened before.”

“He was trained as a warrior!” Beetlenose growled.

Hailstar met his son’s gaze. “And he’s served his Clan well. If this is what he wants, I won’t stop him.”

“Thank you,” Mudfur said.

“Wait.” Shellheart stepped forward. “I want to change my status, too. I want to move to the elder’s hut.”

The entire Clan was stunned into silence.

Rippleclaw was the first to speak up. “What in the name of StarClan is going on today?”

Hailstar was frowning. “Shellheart, I respect your decision. You have spent many years serving your Clan. Of course you may join the elders.”

Stormstrike stared at his father. Had Shellheart planned this? Why hadn’t he said anything? Did Oakheart know?

Shellheart nodded. “Thank you, Hailstar,” he said formally. “A younger deputy will make RiverClan stronger.”

“He’s been looking tired for a while now,” Willowbreeze murmured. “He’s feeling his age.”

“Is he sick?” Stormstrike said. Shellheart wasn’t that old! He was still strong.

Willowbreeze shrugged. “Probably just slowing down.”

Tanglewhisker joined Shellheart. “We’ll help you with your bed."

Troutclaw gestured for the old deputy to join them. “Come on.” He limped up the slope, one leg stiff.

“Rippleclaw, Owlfur, Piketooth, Echomist, Cedarpelt,” Hailstar called to the senior warriors. “Come with me. I need to hear your advice about a new deputy.” He turned and headed for his hut.

“Stormstrike! Stormstrike!" Sedge hurtled across the clearing. “Who do you think will be the new deputy?”

Before he could reply, Reed bustled over. “What was the fight with Adderfang like?”

“Mudfur must have been amazing!” Loud said. “One day, I’ll fight like that.”

Voleclaw shook his head. “No one will ever fight like that again. It’s not part of the warrior code.”

Sedge nodded. “I’d rather fight beside my Clanmates.”

“Can we practice battle moves?” Reed begged. “We never got a chance the other day.”

Loud scanned the clearing. “Where’s Oakheart?”

“Resting,” Willowbreeze said. “Leave him be.”

“I’m taking Sun out for training,” Voleclaw told Loud. “You can come with us.” He glanced at Stormstrike. “Ask Beetlenose if he wants to take Reed. You can come, too.”

Beetlenose hurried over at the sound of his name. “Sounds good.” He looked at Hailstar’s hut. “I could use some time away from camp.”

“Who do you think they’ll choose as the new deputy?” Stormstrike asked.

Beetlenose shrugged. “Probably one of the senior warriors.” He headed for the camp entrance. “They’ve got until midnight to decide, so we might as well waste some time.”

Stormstrike followed Beetlenose and Voleclaw up the slope toward the grassy glade. Sun, Sedge, Loud and Reed murmured over who the new deputy would be.

“I bet it’ll be Timberfur.”

“Why not Rippleclaw?”

“He’s too old. Maybe it’ll be Echomist. She’s his wife, after all.”

“But Shellheart said Hailstar should choose someone young,” Reed said. “Maybe it’ll be Beetlenose!”

“Or Stormstrike!” Sedge growled.

“What about Ottersplash?”

Beetlenose looked over his shoulder. “Why don’t you let Hailstar decide and concentrate on your hunting skills?”

“Let’s try to find some birds,” Voleclaw suggested.

“Birds?” Loud frowned. “But it’s not even winter.”

“Which means they’ll be easy to find.” Voleclaw stepped over a mossy log at the top of the glade.

Sun followed her mentor. “We have to learn eventually. Might as well get it over with.”

Loud charged after her while Beetlenose helped Reed over the gnarled roots. “Let’s practice climbing,” he said. “The trees here are easy.”

Willow branches were thinner and less stable, but closer to the ground. If any of the apprentices fell, the worst injury would be a small scare.

“Are we climbing?” Sedge asked Stormstrike.

“No.” With the other apprentices busy, Sedge could work on her stalking in peace. Stormstrike led her to a gap in the trees, dappled by sunshine that filtered through the slender branches. He halted.

“What are you doing?” Sedge asked.

“I’m listening for birds.”

“I can hear them.” Birds chattered in every tree.

“We need one on the ground so we can stalk it.” Stormstrike crouched down, pushing Sedge with him. He heard a bird fluttering low. “There’s a blueberry bush over there. As long as we stay hidden, a bird will come down to get some.”

As he spoke, wings fluttered and a finch landed on the bush.

Sedge gasped. “How did you know that would happen?”

Stormstrike hesitated. Maurice had been the one to teach him how to lure animals with berries and seeds. “An old friend showed it to me.” He wondered how the farm family was doing. They didn’t even know he was a warrior now. Stormstrike watched the finch hop among the leaves. “Go on.” He nudged Sedge forward.

“You want me to catch it?” Her eyes widened.

“Just try,” he encouraged. “It’s okay if you miss.”

Her breath quickened as she crept forward.

“Be slow,” he whispered. “You’ll be okay. I won’t be angry if you mess up.”

He paused to steady herself, relaxing. She moved forward again, stopping beside the berry patch. Her gaze was fixed on the finch.

She she struck, spear fast as lightly. The finch squawked once before falling still. Sedge stood up.

“I did it!” Her eyes lit up with triumphant.

“Well done!” Pride surged through Stormstrike. “Great catch.” As he spoke, a huge brown mass shot across the clearing.

A deer!

Stormstrike immediately gave chase. Deer rarely crossed the river. It was fast as it raced over the grass. Stormstrike readied his spear and launched it. It soared through the air and nailed the deer in the back, stabbing through its lung. The doe crashed to the ground, blood smearing on the grass.

Sedge puffed after him. “You caught it!” She was still holding her finch. “I’ve never tasted deer before!”

“It’s not bad.” Deer were always a welcome sight to any Clan. They were much bigger than birds or fish, and would feed the whole Clan for days.

Chapter Text

The reeds casted slender shadows across the clearing. Willowbreeze was staring at the setting sun. “Haven’t they decided yet?”
Stormstrike shrugged. “They still have a few hours.” He’d been trying not to think about the new deputy. He wanted to be deputy more than anything. He was older than his father had been when he’d taken up the position. But there were a lot of potential warriors in the Clan. Besides, he hadn’t even finished with his first apprentice yet.

Anxiety flared through him. What if Hailstar chose Oakheart?

Willowbreeze giggled.

“What?”

“Sedge is still staring at her finch.”

Sedge sat outside the apprentice’s hut. Her finch, now freshly cooked, sat on a plate alone.

Stormstrike smiled. “She’s waiting for someone to eat it.”

“Doesn’t she want to eat it?”

“It’s her first catch on her own,” Stormstrike said, shifting closer to Willowbreeze. “She wants it to feed the Clan. I’m so proud of her. I was really afraid she’d never get the hang of it.”

“Hunting birds isn’t easy.” Willowbreeze yawned. “Your deer’s impressive.”

The doe was still laying beside the firepit. Shimmerpelt and Lakeshine would get to it once they finished cooking everything else.

Suddenly, Hailstar emerged into the center of the camp. The senior warriors followed. Stormstrike sat up. Huts rustled as the Clan walked out of their huts to eat dinner and watch their leader.

Hailstar shook his head. “We haven’t made the decision yet,” he said. He sounded tired.

“Let us eat,” Echomist said. She nodded to the deer. “It looks like there’s plenty to go around.”

“Good.” Hailstar sighed. “It’ll be easier to decide once we all have full stomachs.” He headed for the firepit, then froze. “Brambleberry!” he shouted.

Brambleberry shot out of her hut and skidded to a halt beside Hailstar. She followed his gaze, then her eyes widened.

“What does this mean?” Hailstar whispered.

Stormstrike followed their gaze.

The deer’s jaw had been wrenched wide open, dangling unnaturally. Its broken, twisted face stared at the horrified onlookers.

“Stormstrike caught it,” Ottersplash murmured.

Hailstar lifted his head. “It’s an omen!” His eyes flashed as he turned to Stormstrike. “It’s you! StarClan wants you to be the new RiverClan deputy!”

Birdsong pushed through the crowd. “He hasn’t finished training his first apprentice yet!”

“He’s the strongest warrior in the Clan!” Willowbreeze retorted.

Hailstar waved his hand to silence them. “StarClan knows best.” He nodded to Stormstrike. “If this is what our ancestors want, it will happen.”

Stormstrike felt wind rush by his side. He glanced over to see a ghostly figure disappearing into the crowd. Had Mapleshade left the omen?

“Say you’ll do it!” Willowbreeze murmured to him. “Tell Hailstar you’ll be deputy!’

“I’m going to be the deputy’s apprentice!” Sedge gasped excitedly.

Voleclaw nodded to Stormstrike. “You earned it.”

Beetlenose glared at Hailstar, clearly upset his father had chosen someone else.

“Congratulations, Stormstrike,” Cedarpelt said.

Stormstrike stared numbly around. It was finally happening!

“This isn’t right,” Troutclaw whispered to Birdsong. “Why would StarClan choose someone who hasn’t even finished training their first apprentice?”

Timberfur was frowning. “He’s only fought in one real battle.”

Shimmerpelt was staring at the deer. “Are we allowed to eat an omen?”

“Let’s ask our new deputy!” Graypool said. “Congratulations, Stormstrike.”

“Stormstrike!” Oakheart called. His brother was weaving through the crowd. “You’ll be a great deputy.” He leaned closer. “Is that offer still up for me to be deputy when you’re leader?”

Stormstrike’s heart soared with Oakheart’s warmth. “Of course!”

Shellheart approached next. “I’m proud of you.”

Stormstrike looked up at the sky. Was Rainflower proud, too?

A finger prodded his ribs sharply. “Tell Hailstar you accept!” Willowbreeze reminded him.

Stormstrike walked into the shadow of the willow. Hailstar’s hut was dark.

“This isn’t right!” Brambleberry’s urgent voice sounded from inside.

“What do you mean?”

“That omen didn’t come from StarClan!”

Stormstrike stopped.

“Who else can send omens?” Hailstar rasped.

Brambleberry sounded frightened. “Let me go to the Moonstone. I’ll ask StarClan for guidance.”

“What for?” Hailstar sounded puzzled. “An omen is an omen.”

Stormstrike ducked into the hut. “Why don’t you want me to be deputy?” he growled.

Brambleberry’s eyes were wide. “Yes, I do! It’s just…”

“What?” Hailstar was sitting in the back of the hut. “If StarClan has told you otherwise, tell me about it.”

“No.” She turned away. “Stormstrike is strong and skilled. As long as he stays on the right path, it’ll be okay.” She slipped out of the hut.

Stormstrike wanted to follow her. He knew StarClan must have told her something.

“Do you accept?”

“Huh?”

“Do you want to be deputy?” Hailstar asked.

Stormstrike turned to him. “You still want me to be deputy?”

“Of course.” Hailstar stood up. “The omen surprised me, but it’s an omen. I know you don’t have as much experience as other warriors, but you have the potential to learn. You’ve been through a lot, Stormstrike, and you’re one of the most promising warriors in RiverClan.”

“I’ll learn everything I can!” Stormstrike blurted. “My Clan means more to me than anything. I’ll get wise and strong. I’ll do anything for my Clan.” He’d promised Mapleshade to put his Clan before everything. This was how he’d do it!

Excitement surged through him as Hailstar pushed past him and out of the hut.

“Let’s make it official, then.”

The green reeds glowed blue beneath the rising moon, and the willow branches rustled overhead. The air was warm. The Clan lined the clearing, watching as Hailstar led Stormstrike into the center of the clearing.

“Shellheart!” Hailstar called.

Shellheart walked forward to join them.

Hailstar nodded. “Shellheart, RiverClan thanks you for your loyalty and wisdom. You have never flinched and always showed courage. You’ve served your Clan well and we wish you peace in the elder’s hut. You have earned your retirement. I hope you will share your stories with the next generation of RiverClan.”

“Shellheart! Shellheart!” The Clan called. Stormstrike cheered louder than anyone.

“Stormstrike.” Hailstar put a hand on Stormstrike’s shoulder. “From this day forward you will be RiverClan’s deputy. StarClan has spoken, and I hope you will live up to their expectations.”

Stormstrike glanced at Brambleberry. She was sitting outside her hut, staring into her lap.

Hailstar’s eyes darkened. “I am on my last blessing from StarClan. You are young to be so close to leadership. I hope StarClan will give you all the strength and wisdom you’ll need in the coming years.”

“Stormstrike! Stormstrike!”

His Clanmate’s cheered with warmth. Oakheart’s voice rose above them all. There was no jealousy, only pride. Willowbreeze watched him from the edge of the clearing, eyes wide and filled with love.

Stormstrike brought his face to the sky, silently thanking Mapleshade for all she had done.

“We’ll have to build you a bigger hut,” Petaldust teased once the cheering had died down.

“Perhaps we should line your bed with swan feathers,” Oakheart put in.

Stormstrike laughed as he went to his hut, relieved to get some sleep. Willowbreeze was already there.

“Good night,” he murmured. He closed his eyes.

Chapter Text

“I told you I would do it!” Mapleshade’s eyes glowed with triumph. “I kept my promise, and you kept yours! You even chose your Clanmates over your own mother. You deserve to be deputy!”

Stormstrike frowned. His mother’s death had nothing to do with him becoming deputy.

“Never underestimate me again!” Mapleshade said. “I did exactly what I said I’d do!”

“So you did leave the omen?”

“Come on!” She ignored the question. “There’s someone I want you to meet.”

Stormstrike perked up with excitement. Was it Rainflower? She would be here now in StarClan. He followed Mapleshade into the mist. She led him to another clearing, a gap between the slimy gray trees.

Two men emerged from the other side.

Stormstrike recognized Thistleclaw right away. He stood beside his mentor, the same rough looking black haired man who’d trained him before.

“This is him?” the man grunted.

“Just get on with your training session, Silverhawk,” Mapleshade ordered.

“What are they doing here?” Stormstrike asked.

“Just watch,” Mapleshade said.

Silverhawk dropped into a defensive stance, facing Thistleclaw, who began to circle his mentor. Suddenly, Silverhawk darted forward. Thistleclaw dived just in time as Silverhawk grabbed the thin air.

“You can’t get me that easily,” Thistleclaw growled.

“What was that?” Silverhawk dropped into his stance.

“You can’t get-”

Silverhawk tackled him, grabbing Thistleclaw’s shoulders. Thistleclaw shouted, falling to the ground. Silverhawk held down his arms, pinning his legs beneath his knees. Silverhawk drew a dagger from his belt and plunged it toward Thistleclaw’s throat.

He paused just before touching skin, then backed off.

Thistleclaw jumped up. “Let me try again!” he begged. “I know what to do now.”

Stormstrike stared in horror. “You’re teaching him to kill?”

Thistleclaw looked at him. “If you want to be more than a warrior, you have to be prepared to do the worst.”

Silverhawk nodded. “Victory is more important than anything. There’s no glory in surrender.

Thistleclaw was smiling at Stormstrike. “I can show you where to stab.” He pointed to his own neck. “You have to make sure you pierce the windpipe. They either bleed to death, or choke on their own blood. Isn’t that cool?”

“No!” Stormstrike backed away.”

“No?” Thistleclaw narrowed his eyes. “Why wouldn’t you want to learn about it? Don’t you want to know your enemy’s weakness?”

“I didn’t know StarClan taught this!” Stormstrike turned on Mapleshade.

“StarClan?” Thistleclaw blinked. “You idiot! This isn’t StarClan! Those spineless fools won’t teach you anything useful.”

“This isn’t StarClan?” Stormstrike’s eyes widened. “Then what is it?”

Silverhawk pushed past Thistleclaw. “This is the Dark Forest. This is where you go if StarClan won’t take you.”

Stormstrike whirled around. Trees loomed over him, mist swirling at the base of their trunks. The shadows moved and danced as though they were alive. Voices sounded from the darkness, screams and whispers. Stormstrike turned to stare at the others. Their eyes were fixed on him, filled with menace.

“You lied to me!” He turned on Mapleshade.

“I never said this was StarClan,” she said with a shrug. She stepped toward him. “Why are you so angry? You’re the deputy of RiverClan. You have everything you’ve ever wanted. I trained you. I encouraged you. I did more for you than your own mother.”

“Shut up!” Stormstrike snapped.

Mapleshade began to circle him. “Your mother didn’t want you to be deputy. Your mother didn’t break that deer’s jaws.”

“So you did leave that omen!”

“Of course I did!” Mapleshade’s voice was sharp. “Do you think Hailstar would have made you deputy if I hadn’t left it? You’ve never even won a battle!”

“He’s already deputy?” Thistleclaw whined. He glared at Silverhawk. “When are you going to make me deputy?”

Silverhawk smacked him on the back of his head. “You still have a lot to learn. You’ll become deputy when I say so.”

Stormstrike shook his head. “I don’t want to learn how to kill,” he murmured.

Mapleshade’s eyes burned with fury. “You promised to do as I say,” she reminded him. “You promised to sacrifice everything to be the greatest warrior in RiverClan.”

“I know, and I’ll always put my Clan first.” Stormstrike knew he had to get out of here. “Thank you for making me deputy.” He backed out of the clearing, inching around a slippery tree trunk. “But I think I’m good now. I don’t want anymore training.”

Mapleshade’s eyes darkened. ‘What are you talking about? You can’t get away from me, Stormstrike. It’s too late for that. You’ve made a promise, and now you have to keep it.”

Chapter Text

The hollow was brimmed with moonlight. The crowd was silver were they sat below the Great Rock. Stormstrike stood with the other deputies in the shadow of the stone.

“Why did Hailstar make you deputy?” Adderfang whispered. “You won’t even fight for your Clan.”

Stormstrike swallowed back his retort. He didn’t want his first Gathering as deputy to involve a fight. Raggedpelt kept glancing at him from the corner of his eye. Talltail was politely ignoring them all.

Stormstrike scanned the crowd, looking for Oakheart. His brother had been eager to come tonight. Didn’t he want to watch Stormstrike be announced as deputy? Willowbreeze hadn’t been able to come tonight, grounded by a sprained ankle. Shellheart had begged Brambleberry to let him come, but he was confined to the elder’s hut because of a stomach sickness. Stormstrike glanced at the sky. Perhaps Rainflower was watching.

Hailstar raised his voice above the rustling leaves. “Shellheart retired to the elder’s hut.” The Clans murmured as the RiverClan leader paused. “Stormstrike is our new deputy.”

“Stormstrike! Stormstrike!”

As his Clanmates called his name, Stormstrike looked around expectantly. He was relieved when the other Clans gradually joined in.

“Stormstrike!”

Joy fizzed through him. All of the Clans were cheering for him!

A pair of brown eyes flashed in the crowd. Thistleclaw was staring at him. Stormstrike hadn’t returned to the Dark Forest since he’d realized it wasn’t StarClan. He’d woken with cold horror every time he dreamt of trees. How could he have been so naive? He couldn’t go there again. He hoped Mapleshade never tried to contact him.

Thistleclaw’s gaze burned into his. After a moment, the ThunderClan warrior raised his head and joined the cheering.

Stormstrike winced. He hoped Thistleclaw didn’t see them as friends.

He glanced at Adderfang. Did he know one of his warriors was training in the Dark Forest? Did Sunstar know? What if they were all training there?

As the cheering died away, the leaders scrambled down from the Great Rock.

“Have you seen Oakheart?” Stormstrike asked Hailstar.

Hailstar shook his head. “I wasn’t looking. Is everything okay?”

“Everything’s fine. I just want to find him.”

Stormstrike pushed through the crowd. The night was warm. No one was in a hurry to get home.

“Congratulations!” Hollyflower called. “It feels like just yesterday you were an apprentice.”

Fallowtail paused beside Stromstrike. “StarClan knows best.”

Hollyflower blinked. “Was there an omen?”

“Yeah. It-”

“It was nothing,” Stormstrike interrupted sharply. He wouldn’t let StarClan's name be dragged through the mud.

“What about an omen?” Talltail joined them.

Fallowtail narrowed her eyes. “StarClan chose Stormstrike to be the new deputy.”

Adderfang slid out of the crowd. “Why would they chose him? He’s never even fought in a real batte.”

Hollyflower rolled her eyes. “You’re still sour over getting beaten by a healer.”

Adderfang scowled. “He wasn’t a healer when I fought him.” He shot a furious glare at Mudfur.

Brambleberry was introducing her new apprentice to the other healers. He’d been working hard in the few weeks he’d been a healer, walking around camp murmuring herb names under his breath, trying to memorize them.

Crowtail and Archeye, two warriors from ShadowClan, stopped beside Stormstrike. “Congratulations,” Archeye said.

“It’s good to see someone young getting on so well,” Crowtail added.

“Thanks.” Stormstrike looked past them, searching the crowd for Oakheart. “Sorry, I need to find someone.” He pushed through the crowd.

Oakheart was sitting near the edge of the clearing.

“There you are!” Stormstrike waved his arm to get his brother’s attention.

“Hey, Stormstrike,” Oakheart said. “What’s up.”

“I didn’t see you earlier,” Stormstrike said. “Where were you?”
“Over here. There was a lot of people in front of me.”
Stormstrike wondered if Oakheart was jealous of him. He’d seem happy, but now he was avoiding Stormstrike’s gaze. “Did you see Hailstar announce me as RiverClan’s new deputy?”
Oakheart glanced away. “Yeah! It was great.”
“Are you jealous of me?” Stormstrike blurted out.
Oakheart cocked his head. “Jealous? Of course not!” He stood up tall. “I’m proud of you, Stormstrike. You’ve always wanted this. You deserve it. You’ll be a great leader.”
“You think so?”
“I know so,” Oakheart said. “I never really wanted to be leader.”
“But you always said-”
“All apprentices say that.”
Relief flooded through Stormstrike.
“We’d better go,” Oakheart said. The RiverClan patrol was heading for the slope. “I’ll catch up,” he promised. “I’ve gotta take care of something first.”
Stormstrike hurried to join his Clanmates, falling in behind Brambleberry and Mudfur.
“That was fun,” Mudfur said. “RiverClan has a young deputy and an old apprentice.”
Stormstrike laughed. “Did you get along well with the other healers?”
“Featherwhisker is nice,” Mudfur replied.
“Did you ever meet Goosefeather, the previous ThunderClan healer?” Brambleberry asked. “He’s in the elder’s hut now.”
“Oh, yes. He was a strange old man. I’ve heard rumors that he’s totally insane.”
Brambleberry shrugged. “He’s not the brightest, but he was a talented healer.”
“Mudfur!” Fallowtail called to him. “Come test out your new skills on Beetlenose. He’s got hiccups.”
Mudfur hurried away, leaving Stormstrike with Brambleberry. Silence walked beside them like a ghost. He wanted to clear the air, but now that he knew of the Dark Forest, he was terrified to ask her about the omen.
But he was loyal to his Clan. Hiding would only get him into worse trouble. Yet shame drowned him like a flash flood.
Finally, unable to bear the silence, he spoke up. “Is there anything else you can go for my father?”
“I’ll give him more poppy seeds,” Brambleberry said. “It’ll take the pain away.”
“How long before he gets better?”
She remained silent.
Stormstrike’s throat tightened. “He’s not going to get better, is he?”
“No.” Brambleberry’s voice was soft. “I’ve seen lumps like this before. There’s no cure. At this point, I just want to make sure Shellheart is comfortable. If he can pass peacefully, I will be satisfied.”
Hardly a month had passed since he’d lost his mother, now he’d lose his father as well.
“I’m sorry you have to go through this,” Brambleberry murmured.
For a moment it felt like there was never any distance between them. Then Stormstrike remembered the broken deer. He hoped he could still stop Brambleberry from knowing the truth.
Back in camp, Sedge and Sun were waiting.
“What happened?” Sedge squeaked.
“Can we come next time?” Sun begged.
Stormstrike pushed past them. “Ask Hailstar.”
Willowbreeze limped out of their hut. “Did it go well?” She yawned.
“Go back to sleep,” he called. “I’ll tell you everything in the morning.” He hurried across the clearing and climbed the slope. He ducked into the elder’s hut, peering through the shafts of moonlight streaming through the reed woven roof. “Dad?” he murmured.
“Stormstrike?” Birdsong sat up. “He’ll be glad you came. He was wondering about the Gathering.”
“Perhaps he’ll finally go to sleep once he’s seen you,” Troutclaw muttered.
“Ignore him,” Birdsong whispered. “He loves listening to Shellheart’s stories.”
Shellheart sat up. “Stormstrike.”
“He’s come to tell you about the Gathering.” Birdsong brought Stormstrike to Shellheart’s bed before leaving them.
Shellheart looked up. He was thin, face narrow and muscle mass lost. “Come sit with me,” he croaked. “It’s cold.”
Stormstrike sat beside his father. “Hailstar told everyone I was deputy,” he reported.
Shellheart’s laugh rattled in his lungs. “I’m so proud of you. I’m sure Rainflower is, too.”
Stormstrike didn’t think so. She’d have found something to criticize him about.
“I’m sorry she was so cruel to you,” Stormstrike,” Shellheart said.
Bitterness suddenly rose into his throat. He was her firstborn son! She should have loved him unconditionally.
“She was wrong about you.” Shellheart’s voice was soft. “Even when we were apprentices, she was stubborn. She knows she was wrong, and I bet she regrets how she treated you now.”
A chill ran along Stormstrike’s spine. Rainflower was watching from StarClan, while Mapleshade was watching from the Dark Forest.
One of them had been more of a mother to him than the other, and it wasn’t his actual mother who had gone to StarClan.

Chapter Text

The willow branches flailed helplessly as the wind stripped away their leaves. Reeds rattled and swayed as the river raged past, snatching pebbles form the shore. Stormstrike watched the water race away. Behind him, the wind moaned through the cracks of Sunningrocks. He ducked back against the cliff, out of the rain. He spotted something bobbing toward him through the swirling river.

Willowbreeze.

She hauled herself out of the water, dripping wet.

“There you are.” She pressed a kiss to his cheek. “I was worried about you.”

“I’m okay,” Stormstrike said. “He liked to sit here and watch the river, you know.”

“Your father?”

He nodded, fresh grief welling into his chest. “I wonder if his spirit comes here to fish.” Many years had passed since Shellheart had first developed the lump in his stomach. He’d fought hard to survive, never letting anyone see his pain. A few nights after his sons’ apprentices has become warriors, he’d finally given in and let StarClan claim him.

“He has the warm rivers of StarClan, now.”

Stormstrike swallowed back his grief. “He’ll miss his river.”

Willowbreeze leaned against him. “I’m sure he’s watching you from StarClan. He’ll want to see you and your brother.”

Stormstrike smiled. Shellheart had loved his sons more than anything.

Willowbreeze suddenly stood up. “Ottersplash? What are you doing here?”

The orange haired woman was swimming across the river. She climbed out. “ThunderClan warriors are crossing the stepping stones!”

Stormstrike’s head snapped around to stare downriver. “How many?”

“They’ll get to camp any minute,” Ottersplash urged. “Hailstar wants you.”

Stormstrike stood up and dived off the rock into the deep river. He stroked through the water and climbed out, then raced for camp. Through the drizzle, he could see a group of figures heading down the path.

Hailstar was waiting in camp. Sedgecreek and Frogleap stood guarding the entrance, weapons drawn in anticipation. Softwing stood outside the nursery, her two daughters peeking out. Her husband, Owlfur, stood near by, his eyes glued to the entrance.

“Did you see them?” Owlfur called. “How many are there?”

“Yeah, they’re coming this way,” Stormstrike said. “I couldn’t see how many through the rain.”

Echomist crossed her arms. “How dare they trespass on our land!”

Rippleclaw raised his hand. “I want to be in the battle patrol!”

“Me too!” TImberfur hurried forward, Cedarpelt following. Sedgecreek and Frogleap darted after them, their eyes shining.

Hailstar shook his head. “There might not be a need.”

“I don’t think it’s an invasion.” Fallowtail asked. “They’d have to be stupid to attack in broad daylight.”

“Then why are they here?” Timberfur growled.

Stormstrike glanced at the entrance. “I’ll meet them before they reach camp.”

“Take Rippleclaw and Ottersplash with you,” Hailstar ordered.

“Where’s Oakheart?” Stormstrike scanned the camp.

“He went fishing,” Echomist said. “Lakeshine and Shimmerpelt are with him.”

“Find them,” Stormstrike ordered. “We’ll need everyone here to protect the camp.”

Echomist nodded, heading for the entrance.

“Wait!” he called. “Go through the back. Sneak around the ThunderClan patrol.”

Echomist waded into the reed bed and disappeared. Stormstrike called for Ottersplash and Rippleclaw, then exited camp.

Behind them, Hailstar was snapping orders. “Tell the elders to get inside their hut. Loudbelly, you guard them. Owlfur, Lilystem, I want you on the nursery.”

Stormstrike shielded his eyes from the drizzle. Not far down the river, they met with the ThunderClan patrol. He drew his spear, dropping into a defensive stance.

The ThunderClan patrol was chatting casually. Sunstar led them, gesturing for his Clanmates to quiet down once he noticed Stormstrike.

“What are you doing here?” Stormstrike growled.

Blueflower, Whitestorm, Thrushpelt and Lionheart stood behind their leader.

“We just want to speak with Hailstar.” Sunstar’s voice was calm.

“About what?” Ottersplash growled.

Sunstar narrowed his eyes. “My words are meant for your leader.”

Stormstrike waved Ottersplash back. “You think I’ll lead you right into camp?”

“I don’t mean to insult your intelligence, but surely you don’t think the five of us could take on an entire Clan,” Sunstar growled. Behind him, his warriors looked on. Blueflower and Whitestorm were speaking in hushed tones.

Stormstrike nodded. “I see your point.” He peered around them.

Sunstar raised his chin. “There’s no other patrol. It’s just us. I promise.”

Stormstrike glanced at his Clanmates, then nodded. “Follow me.” He turned and headed back to camp, keeping his spear out. The rain pattered down around them as they walked along the path. Stromstrike led the way into camp. Ottersplash and Rippleclaw flanked the patrol.

Timberfur and Cedarpelt were standing by the reeds, glaring at them. Loudbelly stood guard by the elder’s hut. Owlfur and Lilystem shielded the nursery with Sunfish and Sedgecreek standing nearby.

Lionheart stared around the clearing with wide eyes. “Why are their huts so thin?”

“They float if it floods,” Stormstrike growled. It seemed Hailstar had retreated to his hut. “Wait here,” he told Sunstar. He walked over to the willow and ducked into Hailstar’s hut.

Hailstar was sitting in his bed. “What’s going on?”

“They’re here. Only five warriors. No sign of another patrol. Sunstar says he just wants to talk.”

“About what?”

“He wouldn’t say.”

Frowning, Hailstar stood up and walked into the clearing. His eyes found Sunstar, gaze lit with curiosity.

Sunstar returned his daze. “Sunningrocks belong to ThunderClan. We are taking them back.”

Murmurs sounded around camp.

Hailstar narrowed his eyes. “You’ll have to fight for them.”

“Only if we have to,” Sunstar said. “But we thought it would be fair to give you a warning.”

Timberfur took a step forward. “Are you threatening us?” he growled.

“No,” Sunstar answered calmly. “We’re giving you a choice. If you stay away from Sunningrocks, we’ll leave you alone. But we will gut anyone we find there.”

Hailstar stepped forward. “Do you really think you can win this so easily?”

“If you prefer battle, ThunderClan is ready,” Sunstar replied. “But is it worth it? You have your river and plenty of fish. Your blades are meant for stabbing fish in the open water and your cloaks are too flashy for stealth in the forest. It’s no use to RiverClan as a resource. Do you really want to risk your warriors for it?”

Mudfur had emerged from the healer’s hut. He’d argued this same point before.

Hailstar’s gaze didn’t soften. “You expect us to just give up Sunningrocks?”

Sunstar shook his head. “I expect you to fight for them,” he said. ‘Even though you’ll waste energy and lives. You will lose, and your warriors will die, all because of your decision to fight.”

Hailstar raised his chin. “RiverClan fights with blades, not words.”

“Fine.” Sunstar nodded. “Sunningrocks are ours. We will set the new markers tomorrow. After that, any RiverClan warrior found there will be fought off.” He glanced around the camp. “Let all of RiverClan know this. Any blood spilled is in Hailstar’s hands.” He turned and headed for the entrance.

Stormstrike stared after them. How could they be so arrogant?

“How dare you?” Timberfur shouted.

“Make sure they leave our territory,” Hailstar said.

Timberfur and Ottersplash raced after the patrol.

“When are we going to fight?” Sedgecreek asked.

Frogleap followed her. “It’ll be our first battle!”

Loudbelly and Sunfish crowded after them. Leopardfur and Skyheart exchanged an excited glance.

“Stop!” Stormstrike was trying to think. They needed a battle strategy. With so many eager young warriors, victory would come easily. He turned to Hailstar. “We can use three patrols,” he said. “An initial patrol, then two backups.”

“Hang on,” Hailstar said. “This may not be a battle worth fighting.”

“What?” Sunfish stared at him.

“Of course it’s worth fighting!” Frogleap cried.

“Hush!” Stormstrike growled.

“Stormstrike, come with me,” Hailstar said, heading for his hut.

“Why aren’t we making battle plans?” Loudbelly asked.

Stormstrike glanced at him. “Hailstar knows what he’s doing.” He walked beneath the willow and into the leader’s hut.

“Sunningrocks is useless to us in the winter,” Hailstar said. “There’s no seeds, so birds hardly land there. All we do is use them to sunbath and gather herbs, but we already have plenty of herbs growing on this side of the river. ThunderClan can actually use it to hunt.”

“That’s a great reason to keep it from them,” Stormstrike reasoned.

Hailstar’s eyes widened. “Surely you don’t want to starve an entire Clan.”

“It would make them weak.”

“Why does that matter?”

“What if they try to take more land? Giving them Sunningrocks would be showing weakness.”

Hailstar shook his head. “Sunstar has always been kind. Besides, the rest of our territory is across the river. ThunderClan wouldn’t want to bother trying to reach it.”

Oakheart had once suggested making another treaty for ThunderClan to take Sunningrocks in the winter. But Stormstrike’s blood boiled at the thought. Sunningrocks belonged to RiverClan, and he wouldn’t settle for less.

“Sunningrocks rightfully belong to RiverClan!” Stormstrike argued. “We have to take them back.”

“You have a lot of courage, Stormstrike,” Hailstar said. “StarClan chose well. But you lack experience. I’ve seen many battles fought over those rocks. I’ve even lost warriors because of them. Sunstar is right- they aren’t worth it.”

A voice sounded from the hut entrance. “May I enter?” Timberfur called.

“You may,” Hailstar replied.

Timberfur ducked inside. “Have you decided on the plan yet? The Clan is restless.”

Hailstar nodded. Once Timberfur left, he looked at Stormstrike. “I want you to tell them. Consider it practice for when you’re leader.”

Stormstrike took a deep breath. “Okay” He pushed out of the hut and walked to the center of the clearing. Hailstar stopped beside him. The Clan grew quiet as Stormstrike lifted his chin and gazed around the camp “We won’t be fighting. We’re letting ThunderClan have Sunningrocks.”

Mudfur sighed in relief. “Thank StarClan!”

“But we have to fight!” Timberfur growled.

“They’ll think we’re cowards!” Loudbelly shouted.

“We can take them!” Owlfur called.

“You can’t stop us from going!” Reedtail growled.

“We can’t let them win,” Sunfish agreed.

“If you won’t defend our territory, we will!” Loudbelly shouted.

Stormstrike glared at him. “No one will cross the river. If any one of you set foot on Sunningrocks, I’ll be the one to gut you.”

Loudbelly frowned. “Yes, Stormstrike.”

Stormstrike surveyed the rest of the Clan. Rippleclaw was watching him through narrowed eyes, but hadn’t spoken. Owlfur and Timberfur stared at the ground. Stormstrike felt a surge of triumph but pushed it away. These were his Clanmates; he was leading them, not fighting them. “We don’t need Sunningrocks in the Spring,” he said. “Let ThunderClan scavenge on the rocks. We have the river and more fish than we can eat.”

Cedarpelt stepped forward. “I can take out a hunting patrol if you’d like,” he offered.

“Perfect.” Stormstrike nodded. “Take Sunfish, Frogleap and Loudbelly.” It would keep the young warriors busy. As the Clan drifted apart, Stormstrike scanned the camp for Oakheart. His brother hadn’t returned.

“Stormstrike?” Ottersplash emerged from the camp entrance. Her brow was furrowed with worry as she hurried over. “Can I speak with you?” She beckoned him toward the sedge wall. “Have you noticed at the Gatherings if Oakheart is friendly with any of the ThunderClan warriors?”

Stormstrike shrugged. “I hardly ever see him at Gatherings. He always disappears somewhere.”

“He disappears with Blueflower,” Ottersplash said uneasily.

“They’ve spoken a few times, but I haven’t seen them together like that.”

Ottersplash frowned.

“Is there a problem?” Stormstrike asked.

“While we were escorting the ThunderClan patrol, I saw him talking to Blueflower.”

“So?”

“They were alone,” Ottersplash reported. “She dropped back from the patrol and he came from the river. He’d been fishing. He didn’t even know what they were doing there.”

“That’s probably why he stopped her.” Stormstrike wondered why Ottersplash was making such a big deal about this.

“I guess.” Ottersplash nodded. “Of course. That makes more sense. I’m sorry for troubling you.”

“It’s not a problem,” Stormstrike assured her.

Chapter Text

Stormstrike stretched, yawning. It was growing cold as Autumn approached. The river slid past, quiet. Beetlenose and Reedtail were hunting downstream. Stormstrike and Oakheart were fishing in the pool, hoping to find carp. Oakheart had dived in first.

His brother’s head broke the surface. He raised a fish out of the water, then climbed out of the water.

“Your turn.”

“Are there many down there?”

“Loads.”

Stormstrike waded into the shallows. “Hey, Oakheart, remember when that ThunderClan patrol came by?”

Oakheart nodded. “Yeah. Timberfur and Ottersplash escorted them over the stepping stones.”

“And they went quietly?” Stormstrike prompted.

Oakheart shrugged. “As far as I could tell. I was downriver. Why do you care?” He waded into the river. “If you’re not going to catch anything, I will.”

Stormstrike narrowed his eyes. Was he just worried for no reason? Ottersplash had made him paranoid. Perhaps Oakheart didn’t think his conversation with Blueflower had been important. Any loyal warrior would stop to question a trespasser. Besides, they’d never kept secrets from each other. Stormstrike sat down in the shallows, content as the chill water raced around him.

Chapter Text

Icy rain dripped through the roof of the hut. Stormstrike shivered.

Beside him, Willowbreeze sat up, disturbed by the chill. “It’s leaking again?” A large drop thudded onto her head. She jumped up. “I can’t believe it’s raining again.”

Stormstrike rolled his eyes goodheartedly. “I’ll ask Brambleberry to have a word with StarClan.” He stood up, yawning.

“Very funny!” Willowbreeze called as he ducked out of the hut.

The sky was a dull gray. Petaldust, Leopardfur and Sedgecreek were outside, stuffing the nursery walls with extra cloth to keep the chill out.

Hailstar stood by the reed bed, staring out at the river.

Stormstrike approached him. “Has it gone higher?”

Water was brimming in the reed bed. Dawn and Mallow had been forbidden to go near the river. The swell was already sweeping away reeds.

“The banks are holding,” Hailstar murmured. “But we need to keep checking.”

Oakheart peered out from his hut. “The entire Clan is soaked.” He eyed the river. “Is it just me, or is it higher?”

The water swirled by. It was even too fast for fishing.

“Should we move Softwing and Graypool to the elder’s hut?” Oakheart suggested.

Hailstar glanced at the nursery. “Not yet.”

Softwing’s daughters, Dawn and Mallow, were peering out of the hut entrance. Mallow was older at four years old, Dawn just a year behind.

“How’s Graypool?” Hailstar asked.

Stormstrike shook his head. “Still sick.”

Graypool had recently moved into the nursery, expecting Rippleclaw’s child. She’d been nauseous for days.

“We’ll need to move to higher ground if the water gets any higher,” Stormstrike advised.

“I have an idea.” Oakheart tugged out a reed and stuck it into the muddy earth, marking the highest wave of water. “Now we can see if it goes any higher. I’ll check it regularly.”

“Clever.” Stormstrike was glad his brother was back to normal. For many months, Oakheart had seemed distracted and anxious. Whatever had happened, he’d gotten over it.

Mudfur was pacing toward the elder’s hut with a bundle of leaves.

Stormstrike called for him. “Are those for Birdsong?” The elderly woman had been coughing for days.

Mudfur nodded. Stormstrike followed him into the elder’s hut.

“Brambleberry.” He greeted the healer sitting beside Birdsong. “How is she?”

Birdsong was scowling. “She’s still got her hearing and a tongue between her teeth.”

Tanglewhisker rolled his eyes. “A sharp one, at that.”

Stormstrike sat down beside Birdsong. She was starting to go senile, especially with Troutclaw and Shellheart gone.

Brambleberry was mashing up dark herbs. “Your bed is wet,” she said. “Everything is wet.”

Birdsong broke into a cough, then swallowed painfully.

Brambleberry finished with the juice and gave it to the elder. “Drink this. It’ll soothe your throat.” She glanced at Stormstrike. “I sent a few warriors to get the extra bedding supplies, but everything’s drenched.”

Mudfur nodded. “Perhaps StarClan will bless us with some,” he suggested.

“When I was younger, we used to steal straw from a big barn in the meadow.” Birdsong’s laugh was raspy. “No wonder the townsfolk hate us so much.”

Stormstrike looked anxiously at Brambleberry. The senile woman was rambling. Was it a sign of fever?

“Now they have guard dogs,” Birdsong said, looking at Tanglewhisker. “Do you remember the big black and white one they had? Nearly scared you out of your skin!”

“I remember.” Tanglewhisker smiled. “It was even more scared when you kicked it away. Why are you bringing this up now?”

“Didn’t you hear me?” she growled. “They store straw in there. Dry straw. It’s scratchy, but it’s dry. It would keep our beds dry so we wouldn’t get sick.”

Tanglewhisker’s eyes gleamed. “Of course!”

Brambleberry stood up. “Could you go get some?” she asked Stormstrike. “Birdsong won’t get any better with a wet bed. It’ll help Graypool as well.”

“Sure.” Excitement fizzed through him. “I’ll go ask Hailstar.” He ducked out of the hut and padded down the slope.

Hailstar sat beneath the willow. He stood up to greet Stormstrike. ‘What’s with the smile?”

“Birdsong told me about a barn filled with straw.”

“The barn!” Hailstar’s eyes glittered. “I’d completely forgotten! Birdsong used to take me there to gather straw when I was just an apprentice.”

“Do you remember where it is?”

“Beyond the marsh,” Hailstar told him. “Past the field, there’s a huge barn. It’s been abandoned for years.” He lifted his head. “Petaldust, Sedgecreek, Leopardfur!” He called. “You can finish that later. We have a special mission.”

Oakheart looked up. “What are you doing?”

“We’re going to find straw,” Stormstrike said.

“Where at?” Petaldust dropped her bundle and hurried across the clearing. Sedgecreek climbed down from the nursery, Leopardfur following.

“There’s a barn just past the marsh,” Hailstar explained, his eyes shining. “We used to find straw there all the time. I haven’t been there for years.”

“We could hunt along the way,” Stormstrike said.

“Hunting?” Softwing peered out of the nursery. “I thought the river was going too fast.”

“We’ll hunt on land,” Hailstar told her.

“I want to come!” Dawn tumbled out of the nursery. Her orange hair stuck to her face.

“Dawn!” Softwing called crossly.

“I want to go out, too!” Mallow squeaked indignantly.

Hailstar headed for the gap in the reeds. “Let’s get going before the whole Clan tries to come.”

Stormstrike followed him. Petaldust, Leopardfur and Sedgecreek pounded after them. Rain rattled the beech copse and splattered the marsh. Stormstrike flipped up the hood of his cloak.

They waded through the marsh. Peering through the rain, he could see a huge building on the far edge of the field. It rose from behind a low gray wall, its black wooden sides dark.

“Is that it?” Stormstrike asked Hailstar.

Hailstar nodded. Stormstrike darted forward, racing for the shelter of the low wall. As the patrol caught up, Petaldust looked around. “No sign of townsfolk.”

“I can hardly see through the rain,” Leopardfur said.

“Wait there.” Hailstar climbed up and over the wall.

Stormstrike followed. “All clear?”

Hailstar nodded. Stormstrike glanced behind him at the other warriors. “Come on.”

Sedgecreek came first.

“Careful,” Stormstrike warned as she dropped onto the ground below him. He hopped down beside her, checking the yard as Hailstar led them over the cobblestone path. The barn doors cracked open, abandoned and desolate.

Hailstar squeezed through, the door creaking as he pushed it.

Leopardfur follow, Sedgecreek and Petaldust coming next. Stormstrike squeezed in after them. Inside, the roof soared overhead. Dim light seeped through slits in the wooden walls and tall shadows stretched across the dusty floor. Looming piles of golden straw were stacked in the corner.

“Take as much straw as you can carry,” Hailstar ordered. “If we’re fast, we’ll be able to hunt on the way home.” He nodded for Stormstrike and Sedgecreek to take one bundle while he, Petaldust and Leopardfur took another.

“It’s dusty in here,” Sedgrecreek murmured. She dazed up at the tall roof, then sneezed.

Stormstrike led her to a neatly stuffed bundle of straw. He got on one side while she got on the other, heaving it off the floor. Slowly, they inched toward the front of the barn. The bundles were big and heavy. Getting them home would be a hassle.

Stormstrike stiffened when he heard a low hissing noise. He looked around. “Did you hear that?”

Just as he said it, Hailstar cried out on the other side of the barn. Stormstrike whipped around just in time to see a huge cobra slithering away and disappearing into another pile of straw. Hailstar sat on the floor, gripping his hand close to his chest.

Already, his body was starting to grow weak. He let out a groan, falling onto his side. When Stormstrike raced over, he saw a clean bite mark on the leader’s wrist, pulsing with blood. The cobra must have been sheltering from the rain in the straw.

“Someone get Brambleberry!” he ordered, kneeling beside his leader. Petaldust raced out of the barn.

Hailstar shook his head. “She won’t...have a cure.”

“No, she can help you,” Stormstrike insisted. “You’ll be fine. Just stay awake.”

Stormstrike prayed to StarClan he would stay awake. He couldn’t die. Not like this.

Many minutes passed before Petaldust burst into the barn, Brambleberry on her heels. The healer was carrying a huge bundle of herbs on her belt. Her mortar and pestle was in her hands, vigorously mashing herbs together. Stormstrike was still kneeling beside Hailstar. Leopardfur and Sedgecreek had retreated to the shadows of the barn, looking on helplessly.

“He was bitten by a cobra,” Stormstrike explained as Brambleberry knelt down and began sorting through her herbs.

“Petaldust told me,” Brambleberry said.

“You can help him, right?” Petaldust sat beside her father.

Brambleberry didn’t answer. Her frown was grim, her eyes set on the task at hand.

Hailstar’s injured hand shot up to grab Brambleberry’s wrist. “Don’t...bother,” he groaned. “Save your herbs.”

“We have to do something,” Stormstrike insisted.

“We don’t have...a cure.” Hailstar’s voice was soft, hardly above a whisper.

Brambleberry’s frown deepened. “I can still take the pain away.”

Stormstrike’s head shot up. He looked at the herbs she was mashing up. Poppy seeds, lavender, feverfew...she wasn’t trying to treat the poison. She was making sure he passed peacefully.

Petaldust seemed to have the same realization at the same time. She let out a broken wail, pressing her forehead to her father’s.

Stormstrike had never felt so helpless.

Chapter Text

“This is all my fault!” Birdsong wailed. “I never should have suggested going to the barn. I killed him!” She was sitting outside the elder’s hut, knees pulled to her chest.

Tanglewhisker sat beside her, rubbing her back. “You didn’t know there would be a cobra there.”

Beetlenose, Petaldust and Voleclaw were sitting together beneath the willow tree. They stared blankly at their father’s body, laying in the center of the clearing. The clouds were starting to clear, illuminating the clearing in dim light.

Hailstar laid on his back, eyes closed and expression neutral.

Echomist sat beside him, running her fingers through his black hair. “Find peace, my love,” she murmured. “I’ll never forget you.”

Stormstrike sat outside the healer’s hut, staring at his dead leader. He felt like this was somehow his fault. He should have been faster, he should have protected Hailstar, he should have checked the straw for dangers.

“Are you ready for the Moonstone?” Brambleberry’s voice made him jump. He turned to see her standing behind him with a handful of herbs.

“The Moonstone?”

“For StarClan’s blessings.”

He was leader of RiverClan! The realization set a thrill down his spine.

“We need to get going,” Brambleberry said. “Mudfur has things handled here.”

Stormstrike glanced at Hailstar. “I want to sit vigil for him.”

Brambleberry shook his head. “He’ll be waiting for you at the Moonstone.”

Stormstrike stood up.

Timberfur was staring at him from across the clearing. He snapped his gaze away when Stormstrike met his eyes. Graypool was peering out from the nursery, eyes wide. Frogleap and Loudbelly emerged from the reed bed, shivering from the cold water. They were all depending on him now. His heart ached.

He’d wanted to be leader, but did it have to come so soon?

Willowbreeze approached. “Go on. The Clan needs a leader.” She stood up tall to kiss his cheek. “Hailstar made the right choice when he chose you as deputy.”

Stormstrike suddenly felt sick. Mapleshade had made him deputy. If someone from the Dark Forest had made him deputy, would StarClan accept him? What if they refused to bless him?

“Let’s go,” Brambleberry called from the other side of the clearing.

“I’m coming.”

Brambleberry led the way to the stepping stones, following the path beside the waterfall. Crossing the WindClan border, Stormstrike jogged to walk at her side. Did she approve of him becoming leader? She’d been worried since Hailstar had made him deputy over half a decade ago.

Stormstrike slowed to a stop.

Brambleberry turned to him. The heather swayed around her as the evening sun bled into the blue sky. “What’s wrong?”

“Tell me why you were afraid when I became deputy,” Stormstrike growled. He was sure an omen had warned her about him. If she knew about Mapleshade, so must StarClan. He couldn’t face them until he knew the truth. “You received an omen that warned you about me,” Stormstrike went on. “What was it? Tell me!”

Brambleberry frowned. “I didn’t receive an omen. But I’ve seen you with her.”

Stormstrike’s eyes widened. “Mapleshade?”

“Is that her name?” Brambleberry asked. “I didn’t know. All I saw was her training you in an evil, dark place.”

“I didn’t know who she really was,” Stormstrike said. “I was a little kid. She tricked me! I thought she was from StarClan.”

Brambleberry’s eyes widened in sudden realization. “That makes much more sense! You’ve always been brave and loyal, putting your Clan before anyone else. That’s why I couldn’t understand why you were with her.”

“I thought she wanted to help me.” Stormstrike stared at the ground. “I wanted to be the best warrior I could be. She said she could make it happen.”

Brambleberry shook her head. “You were a great warrior anyway.”

“But I didn’t know that. After I broke my jaw, I just felt so unwanted. She was there for me when everyone else thought I was a burden. She made me feel powerful.”

Brambleberry frowned. “You were never a burden, Stormstrike.”

“I’m not training with her anymore,” Stormstrike went on. “I told her I didn’t want her help. Do you think StarClan will still trust me?”

“StarClan will know what’s in your heart.” Brambleberry glanced away. “I don’t know what they see.”

Stormstrike’s stomach churned with anxiety. What if StarClan refused to make him leader? What would RiverClan do then? He followed Brambleberry onto the high moor.

Night fell as they followed the trails through the hearther. The wind whistled past their ears. Stormstrike didn’t even hear the approaching patrol.

“What are you doing here?” Talltail called from behind them.

“We’re traveling to the Moonstone,” Stormstrike said.

Talltail was flanked by Dawnstripe and Woollytail. “It’s not a half moon,” Woollytail said.

“I’m going to receive my nine blessings,” Stormstrike growled.

Talltail’s eyes widened. “Hailstar’s dead?” He glanced at his Clanmates. “I’m sorry for your loss.”

The WindClan patrol stepped aside.

Beyond the moors, the Thunderpath was silent. They crossed it, heading for the paths beyond. They stayed clear of Maurice’s farm. Stormstrike wished he could visit his own friends and tell them how far he’d come. He was a lot more than that stubborn, lonely little boy.

But the moon was rising.

“Almost there,” Brambleberry assured him as the climbed the slope toward Mothermouth.

Stormstrike set a silent prayer to StarClan, begging them for forgiveness. The tunnel was cold and dark. Last time he was here, Willowbreeze had been with him. It had been like an adventure. This time, he felt old and tired. Who would be waiting for him at the Moonstone?

Light flared at the end of the tunnel.

“Quickly!” Brambleberry urged. “The moon has risen!”

Heart racing, Stormstrike dashed after her, shielding his eyes from the glare of the Moonstone chamber. He’d forgotten how high the roof soared and how brightly the Moonstone glimmered.

“Go sit by it.” Brambleberry pushed him forward.

Gripped with fear, Stormsrike leaned against the Moonstone, then slid to the ground.

Chapter Text

Silvery light spread from the top of the hollow, gathering speed as it spiraled down around him. Faces and figures lit up, crowding into Fourtrees.

“Welcome to StarClan.” Hailstar was the first one to step forward. He looked young and strong, eyes bright and skin clear. “I’m proud of you, Stormstrike,” he said.

“I’m sorry!” Stormstrike blurted out. “I should have saved you!”

Hailstar raised a hand. “There was nothing you, or anyone could do. I don’t hold a grudge.” He stepped forward. “I give you the blessing of courage,” Hailstar whispered. “When you feel doubtful, let your heart lead you.”

As Hailstar pressed their foreheads together, agony blazed through Stormstrike. He tried to flinch away, but he was rooted to the ground. Hailstar’s memories flared into his mind. Battles flashed around him, blades clashed and clubs smashed, screams sounded from the writhing bodies.

He gasped as Hailstar stepped back, the memories fading.

A woman appeared next.

“My name is Duskwater,” she said. “I died in the storm that gave birth to you. I give you the blessing of love.” She stood up tall to touch his forehead. Shock pierced Stormstrike as fierce love glittered into his blood.

Duskwater stepped away and Stormstrike found himself facing a long haired man. “Troutclaw!” he greeted in delight.

Troutclaw smiled at him. “I give you the blessing of justice.” His voice was confident and loud. As he leaned close, Stormstrike felt certainly flow through him. He felt like he’d always know what to do, and what was right.

Troutclaw moved aside.

“I’m Mossleaf,” the ancient RiverClan warrior introduced himself. "I give you the blessing of trust." He touched his forehead to Stormstrike’s, who felt at sudden peace.

A RiverClan woman stepped forward. “My name is Lilyflower,” she greeted, her blue eyes sparkling. “I give you the blessing of compassion.” Warmth swept through him as they touched. He felt love for his Clanmates, for all who were injured or frightened or lost.

She turned away, and the next person made Stormstrike gasped.

“Mother!”

Rainflower had stepped forward, her eyes cloudy with emotion. “Hello, son.” She frowned deeply. “I’m so sorry for how I treated. I was blinded by my own need to be right.”

Emotion welled up in Stormstrike’s throat. He opened his mouth to speak, but Rainflower touched their foreheads together.

“I give you the blessing of humility. Use it to always know when to back down, and when to fight for what you believe in.”

Whatever pain the blessing had brought, Stormstrike couldn’t feel it. He’d never felt so happy.

“I’m sorry,” he whispered when she stepped back. “I let you die.”

Rainflower shook her head. “I guess...I can consider us even.”

As Rainflower stepped away, Brightsky replaced her. Her eyes glowed with happiness. “I give you the blessing of hope,” she whispered. “Never be afraid of the future, for it brings wonderful things.” As she touched him, Stormstrike felt as though he was running over a huge meadow, hardly touching the ground, the horizon ahead of him was lit with a rosy dawn.

Another man stepped forward. “I am Sparrowfeather,” he said. “I give you the blessing of patience.” Peace seeped through Stormstrike, slowing his heart.

As Sparrowfeather bowed away, the moment of perfect stillness passed and the future and past crowded into Stormstrike’s mind once more.

“Stormstrike.”

He raised his head to see Shellheart. Bittersweet joy gripped his heart.

“You were touched by the Dark Forest,” Shellheart said, filling Stormstrike with fear. “If I had known, I would have stopped it. I’m sorry I didn’t know until it was too late. I should have guided you better.”

Stormstrike shook his head. “It’s not your fault.”

“I give you the blessing of loyalty,” Shellheart said. “Be loyal to your Clanmates and those you love. Promise me you’ll use it wisely.”

Stormstrike nodded. “That is a promise I can keep.”

Shellheart smiled. “Then from this moment forward, you will be known as Stormstar.”

Stormstar closed his eyes as StarClan lifted their heads to the sky and called his name. He was leader. He would be a great and fair leader, he felt sure of it. He couldn’t wait to get back home. As StarClan spun away, Stormstar blinked open his eyes, expecting to be back by the Moonstone.

“We did it!” Mapleshade cheered. She stood in front of him, eyes glowing. “You kept your promise and I kept mine! You’ve proved that nothing is more important than your Clan.”

“Leave me alone!” Stormstar shouted. “My promise to you means nothing! You’re a witch!”

As he turned away, she glared at him. “You can’t run from me!” she shouted. “This will never be over! I will haunt your family for the rest of time!”

Chapter Text

Stormstar sat back, dusting the snow from hs hair.

“I get why they call you Loudbelly now,” Piketooth teased. “It’s been rumbling all morning.”

Loudbelly scooped up a ball of snow and hurled it at his Clanmate. “I’ve hardly eaten anything in two days!”

“We won’t go home empty handed,” Stormstar said hopefully as they trudged into the willow copse. He tried to sound cheerful, but he was starting to worry. His Clan was growing scrawny as winter set in,

“We’ve been out since dawn and haven’t even heard a bird call,” Loudbelly muttered. The sun was already sliding down the sky.

The river had been frozen for many days, the ice too thick to break. Without fish, RiverClan was hunting on land. Stormstar had forgotten what a proper meal tasted like.

Every night, he ate last, letting the elders and children eat first. He refused to have a full stomach while his Clanmates starved.

Loudbelly yelped as his foot disappeared into the snow. He pulled it out. “I always find the worst dips.”

“I’ll go first.” Stormstar pulled ahead.

Although the world was a white wasteland, Stormstar was glad to be out of camp. Everyone was still mourning Graypool’s stillborn baby. Soon after, Graypool had grown sick with heartbreak. Mudfur and Brambleberry took turns sitting with her in the nursery.

“Look!” Loudbelly called. “A deer!” The young warrior dropped into a crouch. A fawn was skipping between the willows. Loudbelly raced for it, wading through the snow.

The fawn raised its head, then darted through the trees.

“No!” Loudbelly stopped, unable to catch up.

Stormstar shook his head. “Bad luck,” he said. He wished Oakheart was with them, but Stormstar hadn’t been able to find his brother that morning. Whitefang had said he’d gone down to the river, although he wasn’t sure what for.

“Pigeon!” Loudbelly called just as Piketooth launched his spear. A high flying bird squawked as it was hit, falling into the snow in a flurry of feathers.

“Good arm,” Stormstar praised. “Now let’s get back to camp.”

“But we’ve just got one scrawny pigeon,” Loudbelly argued.

“It’ll have to do,” Stormstar said. “We’ve been out all day. It’s freezing. Brambleberry’s supplies are too low for any of us to get sick.”

As they walked into camp, Piketooth dropped the pigeon beside the firepit, alongside a dead caimen. Willowbreeze was hurrying toward the nursery with a huge wad of blankets.

Stormstar crossed the clearing. “What are those for?”

“Come see!” Willowbreeze’s eyes shone. She led him into the nursery. Stormstar gasped.

Graypool held two toddlers in her arms.

Willowbreeze threw the blankets over her sister. “It’s a blessing from StarClan!”

Stormstar could only blink, amazed.

“Oakheart found them by the river,” Graypool said.

“It’s a boy and a girl,” Willowbreeze said proudly. They had the same black hair, although the girl’s skin was a slightly darker shade. The both stared around the nursery, seeming confused.

“Someone must have abandoned them,” Graypool went on. “It’s a blessing Oakheart found them before they froze.” She looked up with a gleam of defiance in her brown eyes. “I’m going to keep them and raise them as my own.”

“But what if someone comes back for them?”

Graypool’s eyes narrowed. “A mother who abandoned her children won’t come back for them.”

Willowbreeze leaned against Stormstrike. “StarClan must have blessed us with them!"

Fallowtail ducked into the nursery. “May I see them?”

Lakeshine and Softwing followed.

“Not now.” Willowbreeze shooed them away. “These two need rest. They’re still weak.”

Stormstar followed them out of the nursery, glancing back at Graypool. She was staring at the children with amazed joy.

“They’re fine,” Willowbreeze was reassured her Clanmates. “Just frightened. You can see them in the morning.”

Voleclaw stopped beside Stormstar. “Willowbreeze has her sister on lockdown.” He laughed. “She’ll make a great mother one day.”

Stormstar wasn’t paying attention. What if the childrens’ real parents came back? Graypool’s heart would break if she was forced to give them back. Would the parents fight for their children? Would it be fair to fight back?

Stormstar walked toward the willow.

“Did you see them?” Oakheart waded through the snow to join them. “StarClan must be watching over us. They made Graypool perk right it.”

“You think we should keep them?” Stormstar asked. He noticed his brother’s expression was pure delight.

“Why wouldn’t we?” Oakheart frowned. “Do you think their mother will come back? Look, I found them by the stepping stones, all alone- no sign of anyone else. I doubt they’ll be back.”

“But is it right to keep children that aren’t ours?” Stormstar pointed out.

“Do you want to throw them out into the snow?” Oakheart growled. “They’d freeze overnight. Not to mention it would crush Graypool.”

Stormstar looked up at the clear evening sky. The setting sun had stained it pink. A frost was crawling onto the reeds. Oakheart was right. The children wouldn’t survive overnight if they didn’t stay warm. “I suppose we could always use new blood.” They’d lost many children over the years. After Dawn and Mallow, Softwing had tried for another baby, but it had died before it was even a year old. Then their was Graypool’s stillborn.

“I’ll go watch the stepping stones and see if anyone shows up,” Oakheart offered. He sounded tense.

“Good idea,” Stormstar said.

“And if no one comes, we can keep them, right?” Oakheart leaned forward expectantly, eyes hopeful.

“Fine.” Stormstar sniffed. “They’ll be raised as RiverClan. Graypool will be their mother.”

Relief flooded through Oakheart’s frame.

Chapter Text

The snow was starting to melt, the new buds soft on the stark willow. As the sun slid toward the distant forest, Stormstar sat at the edge of the clearing, stomach full for the first time in weeks, watching as Willowbreeze darted back and forth. Stone scampered after her, his black hair spiky. He was stocky for a boy his age. He’d be good at hunting. Misty was slender and pretty. She watched Willowbreeze’s, her blue eyes narrowed, before she jumped forward and grabbed the warrior's leg, making Willowbreeze halt.

“Hey!” Stone complained. “Mama!” He called to his adopted mother, who was watching them fondly from the nursery. “Misty won’t let me win!”

“Don’t fret.” Graypool couldn’t stop smiling. “Misty, let your brother have a turn.”

They’d grown during the year they’d been in RiverClan. It seemed they had little memory of their previous lives or family, fully accepting Graypool and Rippleclaw as their parents.

Willowbreeze left them to sit beside Stormstar. “They’ll be good hunters,” she said. “They act just like Clanborn children.”

The reed bed trembled as Oakheart emerged from the river, holding a fat carp. He carried it over to the children. Graypool’s eyes lit up. “Look what Oakheart caught for you!”

Misty raced to Oakheart. “Is that really for us?”

Stone huffed. “I don’t like fish that much.”

“You’ll get used to it,” Graypool said.

“But I like deer,” Stone said.

“You can ask one of the warriors to find one for you,” Graypool said.

“Wolves!” Sedgecreek skidded into camp.

Stormstar was up in an instant. “Where?”

“Downstream!” Sedgecreek said. “They were heading toward the forest.”

“Should we worry about it?” Timberfur asked. “If they’re heading away, they shouldn’t bother us.”

Stormstar had made him deputy after returning from the Moonstone. Oakheart was his initial choice, but he didn’t want to seem biased by appointing his young brother. Timberfur was older and more experienced. He did his job well.

“I’ll go check it out,” Stormstar said.

“Alone?” Timberfur’s eyes darkened. “I don’t think that’s a good idea.”

“I’ll call for you if I need help,” Stormstar said. The wolf packed rarely strayed so far from their home in the Wild Forest beyond ShadowClan’s land.

He walked out of camp, following the grassy path before stepping over the bushes and onto the shore. The river washed away the pebbles, low as Spring grew into its heart. The banks were bright with new growth. Fish stirred near the surface of the river.

Stormstar followed the river along the border. He reached the hawthorns, but saw no sign of the wolves, just a few left over tracks.

But there was something else. He found very little aura of the wolves, which was strange. He new their pack swelled in the warm seasons. Another aura was much, much stronger.

“You fool!” Mapleshade growled. Her figure was outlined against the bank. “Where is your loyalty?”

Stormstar spun around to face her. “Leave me alone!”

“I have to warn you!”

“About what?”

“Those children!” Her eyes glinted with malice.

“What about them?”

“Do you really believe someone just randomly left them in the snow? Is it just a coincidence that they look like RiverClan? That they act like RiverClan? You must be stupid!” Mapleshade’s voice was filled with rage. “Why do you think your brother is so fond of them? He watches them, hunts for them. Like a father!”

“He’s the one who found them!” Stormstar’s blood pumped with rage. “Of course he dots over them. Now leave me alone!”

“They’re everything like RiverClan,” Mapleshade growled. “Except their appetite. They want deer and birds. They want to play under the trees.” She turned to look across the shore into ThunderClan’s camp.

Stormstar’s eyes widened as he understood her point. “No!” he shouted. “I won’t listen to your lies!” He whirled around and raced down the shore. It had to be a lie. Of course the children were strange- they’d come from an unknown place. “Oakheart!”

“What’s wrong?” Oakheart emerged from camp.

Stormstar lowered his voice. “Come with me,” he ordered quietly.

Oakheart followed him away from the reed bed. “What is it?” He sat down on a smooth rock, looking worried.

The river slide past them peacefully, birds chirping in the trees. A kingfisher was sitting on a branch overhanging them, studying the water. Stormstar took a deep breath. “Are Stone and Misty your children?”

Oakheart stared at him, unmoving. “Yes.”

“With Blueflower?”

“Yes.” Pain flashed through Oakheart’s eyes. “She gave them up so she could be ThunderClan’s new deputy. She said she couldn’t let Thistleclaw take over- she said something bad would happen. She was certain it was the right thing. I couldn’t turn her down, Stormstar.”

Regret pierced through Stormstar. He should have told Sunstar that Thistleclaw was training in the Dark Forest. Then, Blueflower could have kept her children without having to worry about Thistleclaw being made deputy.

The secrets he’d carried all his life felt like stones weighing him down.

Oakheart leaned forward. “These are my children, Stormstar, which makes you their uncle. I won’t tolerance anything bad happening to them. If you cast them out, I go with them.”

“I’m not going to do that.”

Oakheart sighed in relief.

“They will be raised in RiverClan,” Stormstar said. “You’re right, they are family.” He looked at the ground. “But I wish you would have told me about this sooner.”

Oakheart sighed. “I’m sorry for keeping a secret from you. It won’t happen again.”

Stormstar lifted his gaze, staring into his brother’s brown eyes. It was fair for Oakheart to keep secrets. After all, how many had Stormstar kept?

Chapter Text

Stormstar tossed another trout to Timberfur. They’d had a good day of hunting, which meant a feast was in order. The past six years had treated them kindly, the snows coming later into the year and disappearing sooner. The sun was finally slipping toward the river and a cool Summer breeze wafted through camp.

“I’m stuffed!” Stone, the newest apprentice of RiverClan said. Despite only being ten, he was already growing tall and solid. He’d be muscular as a warrior.

Mallow poked his ribs. “You deserve it. I’ve never seen someone frighten a townsfolk like that.” Her and her Dawn had been apprentices for a two years now, and had been happy to welcome the twins into their hut.

Graypool smiled. “I wish you’d be more careful, Stone.”

“The patrol was with me,” Stone reminded her.

Misty shook her head. “Don’t worry so much, mom.”

Graypool huffed. “Well someone needs to.”

Rippleclaw nodded. “You did get rather close, Stone.” He’d taken well to his adopted children. He treated them as those they carried his blood, which Stormstar was glad to see. Rippleclaw was one of the more traditionally warriors.

“You shouldn’t bother the townsfolk like that,” Echomist fretted. “They could do us harm if they chose to.”

“He didn’t attack it,” Misty defended her twin brother. “He just yelled at the kid.”

“And now they’ll tell their parents about you.” Echomist shook her head. “There’s a future where they get fed up with us, and start a war, and I sure hope I’m in StarClan before then!”

Rippleclaw yawned. “Townsfolks hate each other just as much as they hate us. They’re too uncoordinated for that.”

Stormstar sat up. “We’ll watch the border closely just in case.” He glanced at the food storage, wondering whether to bring Willowbreeze a second helping. She was always hungry nowaday.

Fallowtail stood up and stretched. “I’m ready for bed.” She nodded to Birdsong. “You coming?” She’d moved to the elder’s hut during the winter, just a few days after Tanglewhisker had died. Stormstar believed it was to keep her mother company.

Birdsong shook her head. “I had a nap today. I like to sit here and listen to the young ones chat.”

“Good, because we love to chat!” Dawn said. “Loudbelly, tell us more about your reed count.”

Frogleap rolled his eyes. “I don’t get why you do that. Sticking reeds into the head of your bed to mark every warrior you’ve defeated? Isn’t that egotistical?”

“I have to keep track,” Loudbelly said. “We’ve won so many battles these past years, it’s hard to keep track.”

Stormstar smiled, feeling proud of his strong, loyal warriors. No other Clan had dared threaten their borders, even during the winter. They’d even taken back Sunningrocks.

“Stormstar?” Willowbreeze called to him. She stood, beckoning for him to follow her to the edge of the clearing.

“What is it?” He followed her.

“I thought we could go for a walk.” Her brown eyes glowed in the fading light. “I need to tell you something.”

Stormstar cocked his head. “What is it?” he repeated.

“Come on.” She gestured to the entrance of camp and ducked out.

“Why can’t it be said in camp?” Stormstar asked, following her.

“I’m pregnant.”

Stormstar halted mid step, one foot still raised. “Really?”

Willowbreeze giggled. “Yes!”

“When is it due?”

“Brambleberry said five months.”

“You have to move to the nursery,” Stormstar fretted. He wouldn’t take any chances. RiverClan had lost enough children.

“Don’t be silly,” Willowbreeze argued. He could see now that her stomach was starting to push out. He’d just thought she’d been well fed by the warm weather. “I can carry on with patrols for a while longer.”

“But what if-”

“Stormstar.” Willowbreeze cupped his cheek with her hand. “I’ll be fine. I promise.”

Stormstar was too excited to argue further. Willowbreeze was having his child! He hugged her tightly, happiness making him tremble. “Can I tell Oakheart? Can I tell everyone?”

Willowbreeze nodded. “Of course.”

Stormstar raced back to camp. “Willowbreeze is pregnant!”

“Congratulations!” Owlfur stood up.

“Awesome!” Oakheart called. “That’s great!”

Softwing nodded. “About time, too.”

“What’s this about pregnancy?” Fallowtail ducked out of the elder’s hut.

Birdsong smiled. “Willowbreeze is pregnant!” Her face suddenly fell. “Oh StarClan, I’m going to be a great grand mother! I must be the oldest elder in any Clan!”

Fallowtail hurried down the slope. “Will she move to the nursery?” She scanned the clearing. “Where is she?” Once Willowbreeze emerged into camp, she rushed to her daughter. “Come on, dear. We need to make up your bed.”

Shimmerpelt rolled her eyes. “Leave her alone. She’ll be fine.”

Stormstar nodded to Timberfur. “I want her taken off hunting patrols. She doesn’t need to be running around.”

Willowbreeze turned to glare at Timberfur. “Don’t you dare!” She faced Brambleberry. “I don’t have to give up my warrior duties yet, do I?”

Brambleberry shook her head. “Of course not.” She glanced at Stormstar. “But let him fuss a little. It’s natural to be worried about his new family.”

“See, Willowbreeze? You need to rest!” Stormstar chided.

Willowbreeze giggled. “Only if you come sleep beside me.”

“Sleep? I’m too excited to sleep!”

The others were heading for their huts as the sky darkened. The moon was rising and stars pricked the sky. The camp suddenly felt small and confining. As Willowbreeze went to their hut, Stormstar headed out of camp, following the trail through the willows. The sky was dark above the slender branches.

He prayed that StarClan would protect her.

Chapter Text

Stormstar raised his head. Snow was flittering down from the sky. It was just the beginning of Winter. Timberfur, Loudbelly and Stone pushed past him into camp. They had been patrolling the Sunningrocks border. Stormstar walked through the reeds and stopped in the clearing. He checked the food storage. It was well stocked with fresh fish.

“Willowbreeze!” He gasped when he saw her, her stomach bulging as she tottered across the clearing with a bundle of blankets. “What are you doing?” She was far too close to giving birth for such heavy work. Stormstar darted over and snatched the blankets from her.

“What’s wrong?” she asked.

“Why didn’t you ask someone to help you?”

“I can change my own bed!” She glared at him.

Stormstar swallowed back his frustration. “I could have helped,” he said. He turned to carry the bundle toward the nursery. He dropped the blankets inside.

Sunfish looked up. She was expecting Beetlenose’s child and would give birth soon after Willowbreeze. “I told her to ask for help.”

Willowbreeze squeezed into the nursery. “I don’t need help.”

“Who needs help?” Brambleberry followed her in.

Stormstar turned to her. “Willowbreeze was carrying a heavy load of blankets across the camp!”

Brambleberry shrugged. “She’s just making her bed comfortable for the baby. There’s nothing wrong with that. Next time, Willowbreeze, you really should ask for help.”

“Fine.” Willowbreeze was glowering at Stormstar.

Stormstar returned it. “I don’t want to argue-” He was cut off as Willowbreeze suddenly gasped.

Brambleberry touched Willowbreeze’s stomach, eyes wide. “She’s gone into labor!”

Stormstar stared at her in shock. “Now?”

Brambleberry nodded. “Get Mudfur.” She looked at Sunfish. “You’ll be doing the same soon. Do you want to watch?”

Sunfish’s eyes glittered nervously. “Okay.”

“Go!” Brambleberry growled at Stormstar.

Stormstar bolted out of the nursery and across the clearing. He ducked into the healer’s clearing. “Mudfur! Willowbreeze has gone into labor!”

Mudfur raised his head from where he was sorting herbs. “Give me a moment.” He reached into the herb shelf, grabbing leaves.

Stormstar followed him out of the hut and watched him duck into the nursery. He paced outside, trying to block out the terrible memories of when Brightsky had given birth.

Oakheart walked into camp, carrying a fish. His eyes widened when he saw Stormstar. “Is it time?”

Stormstar nodded. “Brambleberry and Mudfur are with her.”

“I’m sure she’ll be fine.” Oakheart came to stand beside him. “She’s strong. If she can handle a ThunderClan warrior twice her size, she can handle a little baby.”

Stormstar’s heart was racing, but he nodded in gratitude for his brother’s support.

Ottersplash emerged from her hut. “What’s going on?” The old woman limped toward them. Timberfur had been trying to persuade her to move to the elder’s hut, but she’d insisted on continuing on as a warrior. She didn’t want to retire until he did.

Oakheart turned to her. “Willowbreeze has gone into labor.”

“I thought so.” Ottersplash sat down beside the firepit. “The Clan could use a new baby. It’ll raise their spirits as Winter sets in.”

It was many hours before Mudfur slid out of the nursery. “It’s a girl!”

Stormstar hurried over to him. “How’s Willowbreeze?”

“Just fine,” Mudfur said. “Come meet your daughter.”

Stormstar squeezed inside, excited. Willlowbreeze was sitting in her bed, eyes dark with exhaustion. Sunfish sat beside her, cooing over a bundle in the other woman’s arms.

Brambleberry joined Stormstar. “She’s very tired.”

Stormstar looked down at the bundle in Willowbreeze’s arm. The baby looked perfect. Although she was small, she looked exactly like her mother.

Stormstar’s heart was filled with love, so full he thought it would burst. He sat down beside Willowbreeze. “She’s perfect.”

“I know,” she rasped.

Pride welled up inside him. What a beautiful baby girl. The most perfect in the whole world.

Chapter Text

Stormstar woke with the sun. It had just broken the horizon as he walked out of his hut and crossed the clearing, yawning. Quietly, he slid into the nursery to see Willowbreeze and their five year old daughter, Silver. The little girl had black hair, looking almost exactly like her mother.

Willowbreeze was already up, talking quietly with Mudfur, who sat beside her. Stormstar halted upon seeing the worried look on Mudfur’s face. He also noticed Silver was sitting in Sunfish’s bed.

“What’s going on?” he asked.

Mudfur raised his head, frown deep and grim. “Willowbreeze has a fever.” At his words, the woman burst into a coughing fit.

“I’ll bring her water.”

“Already taken care of.” Brambleberry ducked into the nursery with a pot of water. “Just leave this to us, Stormstar. Meanwhile, you should stay outside. We don’t need sickness spreading, especially so close to Winter.”

Stormstar wanted to argue, but Brambleberry knew best. His Clan couldn’t afford for their leader to get sick.

“I’ll come check on you later,” he said to Willowbreeze. “I love you!”

In the following days, Willowbreeze only seemed to get worse. Sunfish, her son Grass, and Silver had been moved to the elder’s hut for now. A soft drizzle soaked the camp, often freezing over night. Stormstar and the rest of the Clan were forbidden from entering the nursery, but that didn’t stop him from sitting outside every day, praying to StarClan for help, then cursing them for not helping sooner.

“Stormstar.” Brambleberry’s voice sounded from the entrance to the nursery. “She has greencough.”

“I’ll find catmint.” Stormstar stood up.

“I already tried catmint,” Brambleberry said. “It’s not working.”

Inside, Willowbreeze broke into another coughing fit. Stormstar winced. “Is there anything I can do?”

“You can go see her.” Brambleberry stepped aside.

Stormstar stared into the shadowy hut, dread filling his stomach. Was Brambleberry giving up? He took a deep breath and ducked inside. The nursery was dark, the air stuffy and sour. “Willowbreeze?”

She was laying in her bed, black hair sprawling out behind her head like a spider’s web. She lifted her head. “Hello, my love.”

He sat beside her. “Brambleberry wouldn’t let me in before now. But I’ve waited outside every day.”

“How’s Silver?” Willowbreeze’s eyes were filled with tears.

“She’s fine,” Stormstar whispered. “Filled with energy. She asks to see you every day.”

Willowbreeze’s smile was bittersweet. “I’m so sorry.”

“For what?”

“Leaving you to raise her alone.”

“No!” Stormstar shook his head. “You’re not going anywhere. I won’t let you!”

“You’re such a wonderful father.” Her laugh was broken off by another cough. “I’m so happy I came back to RiverClan.”

“Stop!” Stormstar fought to keep the panic out of his voice. “You can’t leave me. Silver needs you. I need you!”

“My precious love.” Willowbreeze strained to kiss his twisted jaw. “You must be brave.” She cupped his cheek, then her hand fell away. She laid back down and closed her eyes.

Stormstar felt tears rising into his eyes. He brought her into his arms. “Willowbreeze? Willowbreeze!”

Brambleberry slid back into the nursery. She knelt down beside Willowbreeze, putting a hand over her chest, then shook her head. “She’s stopped breathing.”

A broken sob wretched itself out of Stormstar’s throat. “StarClan, why?” Sudden raged pulsed through him.

It wasn’t StarClan who had done this.

“No!” He raced out of the nursery. “No!” His shout rippled through camp, turning heads. “I never promised this!” Before anyone could question him, he darted out of camp, pounding down the wet slope. “Mapleshade!” he shrieked. “Where are you? Show yourself! If this another sacrifice? Is this so I can be the greatest leader the Clans have ever seen? I don’t want to be anymore! I take back my promise! Stop torturing me! Stop!”

“Stormstar!” Oakheart had followed him toward the willows.

Stormstar collapsed onto a fallen log, putting his head in his hands and sobbing.

Oakheart sat beside him. “What are you talking about? What did you promise?”

Stormstar scooted away. “I can’t tell you!”

Oakheart rubbed his back. “Come back to camp. Everyone is worried.”

Stormstar stood up, wiping his eyes. He let Oakheart take his arm and lead him back toward camp. Sunfish had emerged from the elder’s hut. Silver stood beside her, holding her hand.

“Daddy!” she called when Stormstar entered camp. She tore away from Sunfish and raced down the slope, hugging onto his leg. “What’s wrong? Why are you sad?”

Stormstar looked away from her to see Timberfur and Rippleclaw carrying Willowbreeze’s body into the center of the clearing. A whole new wave of grief washed over him. He knelt down and hugged Silver against his chest, shielding her eyes.

Chapter Text

“Mapleshade!” Stormstar called. How could such a simple promise cause so many problems? Willowbreeze was dead. So was Rainflower and Hailstar. Oakheart had betrayed his Clan and Blueflower had been forced to give up her children. Stone and Misty didn’t even know their real parents. His promise had been a rock thrown into the river, creating never ending waves that toppled over tiny trees.

The Dark Forest surrounded him, the trees looming up like giants.

“Mapleshade!” he called again. He was ending this once and for all.

“Stormstar.” Mapleshade’s voice ooze like poisoned honey.

Rage scorched through him. He jumped on her, wrapping his hands around her throat.

She wrestled away from him, pleasure lighting up her eyes. “You can’t beat me.” She darted forward and slammed her fist into his jaw.

He stumbled back, falling onto the ground. He dove away just in time to avoid another blow. He grabbed her dappled cloak and threw her backward. She was up again in a split second, throwing herself at him. Stormstar ducked beneath her, knocking out her legs. Then he turned and dove on her, shoving her face into the mud.

She pushed up with so much strength it shocked him. He staggered away and suddenly she was on top.

“Kill me!” he shouted. “It’s not like I have anything to live for.”

Mapleshade laughed. “Oh, I don’t think I will. Keeping you alive will be much sweeter revenge.”

“Revenge?” Stormstar echoed. “What did I do to you?”

Mapleshade stared at him, her eyes flaming. “You were always destined to become leader of RiverClan. It had nothing to do with me. Your path was marked by the stars thousands of years before I was even born. But only fools care about destiny. I wanted to be leader of ThunderClan! But they banished me when I had children with a RiverClan man. Doesn’t that sound familiar? Oakheart isn’t the first RiverClan fool led astray by ThunderClan beauty. And I’ll make sure he’s not the last!”

As she pushed him into the mud, Stormstar stared at her. “You influenced Oakheart to be with Blueflower?”

“That’s right!” Mapleshade grinned crookedly. “Oh, it was hard, but I made sure they crossed each other’s paths. I made sure they made the same mistakes I made all those years ago. I wanted Blueflower to be cast out, just as I had, but she’s smarter than I’d given her credit for. She chose to give up her children, stopping both my plans and Silverhawk’s by becoming deputy. I wanted ThunderClan to banish her, so her children would die just as mine had. When I left ThunderClan, I tried to take my triplets across the river so they could be with their father, but a flash flood came and drowned them!”

Stormstar tried to push her off.

“Then their father blamed me! RiverClan casted me out as well. Can you imagine how much that hurt? I was rejected twice! All I did was fall in love. But I made sure everyone who’d wronged me paid. I killed a healer, for StarClan’s sake! That’s how I ended up here. I earned my place in the Dark Forest. But the worst part is that the father of my children had taken a wife in RiverClan! After he’d promised he’d loved me and only me. Then, they had a daughter, and that daughter had a son. Do you know what his name was?”

Stormstar was still trying to keep up with her story.

“Your precious father, Shellheart.” Her hands were trembling. “Do you understand now? Do you see why I hurt you and your brother?”

“No!” Stormstar growled. “I’m sorry if my ancestor hurt you, but this has nothing to do with me!”

“You fool!” she snapped. “My great grandson should be leader of RiverClan, not you! If ThunderClan hadn’t driven me across the river, my children wouldn’t have died. If RiverClan hadn’t rejected me, maybe Shellheart would be my grandson. Everyone was out to get me! Everyone wanted me to suffer, just because I didn’t love who they’d wanted me to love! Then you came alone, destined for greatness, when you should never have been born!” She shoved off of him. “I wanted to test your loyalty. I wanted to see if you were weak and disloyal, just like Appledusk. I wanted to see if you’d betray me. And you were! With the power of your promise, I took everything from you, just as everything had been taken from me! Your mother, your brother, your wife. Now, I’ll take your pretty little daughter.”

“If you touch her, I will spread your guts through the Dark Forest!” Stormstar was seething with anger. “Do you hear me, Mapleshade? I’ll kill you!”

He blinked his eyes open, gasping for air. He was back in his hut, laying in his bed.

“Silver!” He stood up and raced out of his hut toward the nursery. Sunfish and the children had moved back into the nursery now that the sickness had been cleared away.

Sunfish was asleep with Grass and Silver at her sides. They curled against her. Every day, Silver had been asking about her mother, wondering where they’d taken her and when she’d been back. They’d tried to explain that she wasn’t coming back, but she never seemed to believe them.

Stormstar sat down carefully and nudged Silver closer to him.

The tiny girl yawned, blinking open her blue eyes. “Daddy?” She rubbed the sleep from her eyes, crawling into his lap. “Is mama back yet?”

Stormstar winced. “No, dear. Not yet. But I’m here. I’m all you need.”

“Okay.” She leaned her head against his chest, closing her eyes. “Why are you here?”

“I needed to see you,” he said. “I wanted to make sure you were okay.”

“Why wouldn’t I be?”

“Just in case, dear.” Stormstar ran his fingers through her dark hair. Willowbreeze had once been this small, marching around the nursery with her sister, asking him to come play with them. “I’ll always be here to protect you, Silver. You know that, don’t you? If anything happens, you can always come to me.”

“Do you promise?” Silver yawned.

“I promise.” Stormstar’s heart ached. This was the one promise he’d keep, no matter how much it hurt him.