#rippling pawsteps

[sillspore]

oh em gee it’s squirrelcrow that’s craaazy……

maybe one day i’ll get around to coloring it lol

#erin hunter warriors #warrior cats #warriors #warriors rewrite #warriors au #warriors designs #warriors fanart #squirrelflight #crowfeather #squirrelcrow #i’m really proud of the beans #toe beans #rippling pawsteps

[complexcritterscave]

I love cooking. Sorry if this isn’t as high quality as the rest! I forgot to save it earlier and it deleted like 7 paragraphs and dialogue so I had to rewrite some of it AND I was struggling to think of how I wanted to continue it. Also it gets kinda funky at the end so uhm yeah if you’ve got any questions about that part feel free to ask ily guys remember to be silly

Split would open her eyes, finding herself in an empty white void. This was definitely a dream, or a nightmare, she hasn’t figured it out yet. Hopefully it wasn’t the latter..

She sat up, looking around before trekking through the blank space, curiosity fuelling each step she took. Something about this place was… ominous. Like she shouldn’t be here.

If that didn’t make it better, she felt as if she were being watched. As if something were documenting her every move while she made her way deeper into the void.

`What if someone is..?`

The thought made her shudder. Someone, or something, was hiding in this blank canvas. Hiding out of sight despite there being no crooks or crevices, nor shelves or walls, to hide in or behind. Whatever this threat was, she did not plan on sticking around for a friendly meet and greet, picking up the pace as her ears lowered.

As she continued on his invisible path, she noticed something in n the far distance. She couldn’t entirely make it out but it seemed… Well she couldn’t really describe it. But seeing as there was nowhere else to go, she made her way towards it.

As the trekked closer she began noticing how the floor was fading from its pristine whiteness to an inky black. If that wasn’t enough, she also noticed how every pawstep she took left a small ripple effect on its surface, as if she were walking on water.

That’s not possible is it? The only times she’s heard of that happening is in religion and that one lizard. Maybe it was oobleck? She knew enough about it, well the basics at least. It was a liquid when there was no force applied and solid when there was.

If so why didn’t it stain her paws? She’s seen it stain people’s hands went dealt with, so why weren’t hers becoming black or at least grey?

She was yanked from her thoughts as she heard the subtle sound of movement behind her, whipping around to meet whoever her friend, or enemy, was. Unfortunately, it was no friend and a deep scowl graced the Fruit-Taur’s face.

"You?! What are you doing here?! How are you even here?! Out of everything, it’d had to be you! I don’t get why DrRETRO doesn’t just use a sledge hammer against you already! No one likes you!"

She snapped at the smiling rock beneath her a quiet yet guttural growl rumbling in her throat as her ears folded back.

"Silence dog creature."

She was taken aback, quite literally, when it spoke, blinking as she stared at it incredulously. Its voice horrifically deep and statical.

"You can talk? You’ve been able to talk this whole time?!"

"Always have been. Now leave."

"Huh-"

"Leave. You’re not supposed to be here. I don’t want you here, your thoughts are too loud and disturbing my work. So shoo shoo, I’m busy."

MR stared up at her, its smiling face unable to show up its obvious glare of disdain and condescending contempt for her.

"You’re still here?"

"You act as if I want to be here."

"Then leave."

"Tell me how!"

"Don’t raise your voice at me, I have divine authority you’d only see on your glass screens."

Split let out a mocking snort.

"You? Divine authority? The most you can do is magic tricks."

The rock, now infuriated, glared at her shoulder, a small flame appearing on her clothing as it did as she let out a yelp and immediately pat it out.

"Apologize and I’ll consider not breaking your limbs. At least not all of them."

"I’m not apologizing to an oversized geode! Especially not one who set me on fire!"

MR was about to set her ablaze entirely, turning her into a blackened banana before a moment of malicious remembrance crossed its mind as it hummed in response. Physical torment lasted long, yes. But anyone could recover from it. Even the most vicious wounds of attacks can be healed, even if they left scars, they still healed.

Emotional and mental torment however... Those were difficult to conquer. Even the strongest of men can crumble at the feet of a weak mind. The detrimental effects that it can leave behind are sickening. The way it can drive people mad and take drastic measures to make it stop. It was too perfect of an idea for the rock to let go. It had used it many times in the past on specific victims, especially its current one.

Besides, it'd be killing two birds with one stone...

"Your friend."

"I have a lot of friends."

"The hairy one."

"I have a lot hairy friends."

"The detective."

"Bive?"

"You two are close, no?"

"Duh! She’s-"

"You care and love her don’t you?"

"Love is such a… strong word? I adore her! But of course I care about her!"

"Interesting. How is it you tell her of your life and she never responds with similar information?"

"She’s probably just had a bad childhood? Wait a minute how do you kno-"

"How do you sympathize with a freak such as her?"

Split’s expression hardened, but before she could jump on the defence, it continued.

"You know she’s a a failure right?

"A mistake."

"She’s not even supposed to exist."

The fruit-taur snarled at it, a spark of fury slowly growing into a bonfire.

"Now listen here you-!"

"What is your goal?"

"What are you talking about?!"

"Is it to be her rock?"

"Is it to be her white knight in glistening armour?"

"To fix her?"

"You’re wasting precious energy on her.. You can’t fix a vase that’s been shattered in to millions of pieces. You can’t fix a broken record. You can’t fix her."

"This isn’t about fixing her! Shut up! You’re just trying to trick me!"

"Au contraire. I’m just trying to enlighten you of your situation. After all we’ve both had someone we care for."

"Well, you still have that someone…"

Despite her fury, a small twinge of confusion nagged her.

Perfect…

"I had someone. I cared for their every need. When they were hungry, I was the first to feed them. When they were thirsty, I always brought them enough water to last them throughout the day. The others? They saw them as an experiment. An analysis. Something to simply studied. Me? I treated them as if they were my own child."

Split felt the anger in her begin dying down as she listened on. For once, she felt… bad for the rock.

“I taught them to walk, to speak. Countless nights I would lay awake for them when they were ill. Whenever it stormed, they were afraid of the thunder, so I would stay by their side to help to rest. To bring them comfort.."

As cruel as the stone was, it sounded like an excellent paternal figure. She never knew it had such loyalty and affection in it. Perhaps something changed it?

"I did everything for them. I would’ve given my life for them. And you know what they did?"

"What?"

"They stabbed me in the back. They left me when I needed them most. I returned to find them gone and my life’s work with them. I loved them and they abandoned me as if I were garbage. Do you know, how painful it is, to care for someone as if they were your successor, your own blood… just to have them turn their back on you..? It’s worse than any physical wound imaginable…"

The fruit-taur couldn’t help but sympathize with it. Clearly it was hurt, hurt beyond imagination. It had gave and gave and gave, only for its affection to never be reciprocated. Whoever did this to MR had turned it into what it was now, a bitter and broken mess. Who could do such an awful thing?!

As if it could read her thoughts, it spoke up.

"You know them too."

"I do..?"

"Yes. You give them the same amount of love and attention as I once did. You treat them with respect and kindness while others turn their back on them, as they rightfully should."

Split stared at it for a moment, surely it didn’t mean..? No! That’s impossible… Right?

"You’re not talking about..?"

"Your little detective friend? Unfortunately, I am…"

She felt her heart drop. No. That couldn’t be true! It had to be lying! Yeah. That’s right! It’s lying. She would never do such a thing. Sure she wasn’t always the most morally correct person, but to do that?! That’s too far. Not even Gnarpy was that cruel, and xe threatened everyone! Even Fleshcousin! But there was still sense of doubt that whispered in her head, its voice quiet yet loud enough to be heard.

`What if it’s not lying..?`

"Hard to believe isn’t it? I assume you have no intent on locating her now do you?"

"What..?"

"She’s here you know?"

"Right now?"

"Yes."

"… Can I talk to her?"

"I guess so. Continue going forward in the direction you were originally going. You’ll find her eventually."

Spilt looked behind her, tilting her head slightly.

"That’s all? She’s th-"

She turned back towards the stone, a quiet ‘oh’ escaping her mouth as she realized it was gone. How does a rock move that fast? Does it have legs or something? That’s a funny idea- Wait no no! She needed to get answers. No distractions.

She sighed as she continued forward, the questions that whirled in her head made her feel ill.

Is she actually the reason MR was who it was now? Did she actually break its heart? Why didn’t she tell her this earlier? Was she trying to hide her true self? Was she even who she thought she was?

The more Split thought, the more distraught she became. She was starting to believe that everything she knew about Bive, everything she cared for, everything she adored about her was a flat out lie. How stupid could she be? How naive was she?! She thought she finally found someone she could connect with, to spend time with, to love even.

Then the truth came and proved it all to a sick and twisted fantasy.

Eventually, she came across the paranoid detective. She seemed distressed, like usual but it seemed much more intense. Like she was expecting something. Like she was in immense danger. She seemed more jittery than ever.

As Split got closer, Bive soon took notice of her, seeming to calm down a little, a small grin even appearing on her face. However as she saw the hardened expression on the fruit-taur’s face, she tensed up once more, her grin slowly disappearing as she got closer.

"Split..?"

She paused a few feet in front of her, staring down at the detective before sighing. Bive tilted her head as she tried to read her face, why’d she look so upset? Did something happen

"Why?”

"Why what?"

"Why’d you do that to it?"

"Do what to who?"

"You know what I’m talking about!"

"Well, to be honest I really don’t."

Split bit back a harsh retort, forcing herself to remain calm.

"Why’d you just… abandon MR?"

Bive was completely taken aback. Firstly, how’d she even find out about her history with the stone. Secondly, who told her she abandoned her?! She never abandoned anyone! If anything she was abandoned! Well not really but that’s not the point!

"Aha… What?"

"Bive please tell me it’s a lie."

"You don’t believe it right? You don’t actually believe that do you?!"

"The more I think about it, the more believable it sounds!"

"It’s all a lie, I promise! Who even told you this? It’s obvious they’re trying to distract you from the real threat such as the clowns and snow so-"

"ENOUGH WITH YOUR CONSPIRACY THEORIES! STOP TRYING TO CHANGE THE SUBJECT!"

Bive was taken aback. Never had she heard Split so upset, and especially never at her. It hurt. It hurt a lot actually. Did she even know the actual story? Who tricked her like this?!

She tried to stammer out a response before Split just responded with a frustrated growl.

"Please just tell me the truth. Did you leave? Yes or no?!"

"It’s a much more complicated answer than that! That’s not fair!"

"So you do know it?!"

"Well! I didn’t say that!"

"Then what are you saying?!"

"That our connections are more complicated than that!"

"That sounds like you’re trying to tiptoe around the fact that you know MR."

"I- Well-! Just please!"

She watched as the fruit-taur sighed, turning her head to the side as she used her hand to rub the temples above her forehead.

"I may know it just a bit but-"

"But..?"

"I didn’t abandon it! I just left!"

"That does not make it sound any better…"

"Well I just-"

"We just aren’t on the best of terms because of previous events!.."

"I wonder why.."

It was like every answer that came out of her mouth wasn’t the right one. At this point Bive was beginning to panic. Apart from Split she had virtually no one else. Scratch that, she HAD no one else. Everyone else didn’t listen to her, they found her insane, they thought her truths were lies. She couldn’t lose Split, the mere thought of it scared her more than anything else.

"Look I dunno what they told you but it’s not true please! I promise!"

"It’s getting harder to believe you…"

Bive watched as Split took a step back, her panic growing into pure terror as she noticed the stone that had materialized beside her. Of course. Why hadn’t she realize it sooner? That dumb rock was the reason Split didn’t trust her, it was the reason she didn’t believe her. It lied to her and got her on its side. She hated MR, it was lying, cheating, skank that fed off of suffering.

But so far, it seemed as if it was winning this battle..

"Split, please! You can possibly believe it can you?! You-You don’t actually… Right?… RIGHT?!"

Split only stared at her, too upset to think of a response. The agonizing 'reality' had set in that the detective she once loved was a two-faced traitor. It hurt her too much to even think of it as she fought back tears.

The stone looked towards her, despite the permanent smile that graced its face, it seemed express some sort of empathy towards the fruit-taur. As if it knew how she felt, as if it had once been in her place.

It let out a quiet hum, signalling for Split to go of which she did without hesitation. Her paws heavy as she left the two alone…

Bive could only watch as she left, her own feet stuck in place, her mouth too dry to let out a pleading ‘stay’. Before she knew it, she was gone. Where? She had no idea, but she had disappeared past the horizon and could no longer be seen. She turned to the stone, watching as it gave her its sickening and mocking grin. How could something be so cruel? How could something be so vile?! How could something be so… cruel?

A wave of pure hatred and grief washed over her, the stone knew it too. It felt it coursing through her body, and it relished it. It fed off of such negativity, and right now? She was a gold mine…

"You… You stupid-! WHAT DO YOU WANT FROM ME?!"

The rock didn’t answer, just stared… Just stared as tears streamed down her face, just stared as she trembled with mental agony, just stared as she glowered at it with pure unfiltered hatred.

"WHY CAN’T YOU JUST LEAVE ME ALONE?! WHY DO YOU FOLLOW ME?!"

Her breathing was heavy and irregular as the stone answered her with a command.

"Drown… Let your suffering be the waves that kill you…"

The ground beneath her seemed to liquify as she fell straight through it, letting out a yelp as she splashed into the inky 'sea' beneath her. She had tried to swim back to the surface, despite her poor abilities, but it was futile as some sort of thin layer of invisible 'glass' blocked her escape. She held what little breath she had as she pushed at it.

She could see MR staring down at her, staring at her as she tried to break through. It’s mocking grin still gracing its face. It knew it had won but it wouldn’t indulge in its victory until it saw the realization in the detective’s eyes. Until it saw her realize she had lost.

She kicked and punched and clawed and scraped at the layer, fighting to escape as her lungs pleaded for air. Her chest felt as if it were on fire as she continued, her movements becoming weaker

Split would awaken from her sleep before groggily looking around. She was back in reality, back in the maze, back with her… Split looked down at the sleeping detective, a wave of guilty disgust washing over her as she realized she was leaning against her.

Bive felt herself getting tired, her limbs began aching as her actions became weaker and weaker

The fruit-taur nudged her off, not enough to wake her up to prevent an awkward and painful conversation.

The detective’s movements became slower before eventually stopping. Her body tired and aching as her chest continued to burn…

Split let out a sigh, getting up as she gathered her own belongings, despite not being much, and began leaving.

She gave the stone a glance, the sudden realization of defeat hitting her as she began to slowly sink. The 'water' was cold yet oddly comforting in a way, it quelled the fire in her chest. Bive couldn’t help but feel relaxed in its waves..

She avoided thumbtacks and coffee cups as she made her way out of Bive’s corner of the maze. Meeting Fleshy by pure coincidence due to accidentally bumping into it.

Her vision began to blur and her mind began to cloud. Bubbles escaping her mouth as she continued to sink down into the dark abyss.

Fleshy escorted her out of the maze, babbling random nonsense as it usually did while remaining upbeat and optimistic, not picking up her solemn attitude.

For once she felt at peace, no more running, no more fearing, just peace.. It was a nice feeling. The light around her had began to dim as she sank deeper and deeper.

She waved a polite goodbye to the fleshcousin as she made her way back to the elevator, pressing its button as she waited patiently.

She eventually hit the bottom, the light dim as she laid on the sand-like ground. The aching in her body had stopped. The fire in the chest had been quelled. All that was left was for her to close her weary eyes…

She heard the familiar and welcome ding of the elevator, her floppy ears lifting as she stepped into it. Mark and Wallter were there but paid no attention to her as they argued over wood and concrete. She placed a coin in the elevator’s slot and selected Splitsville. She needed some time to herself for now…

WOWOWOWOWOWOW HOPE I DIDNT MAKE YOU CRINGE BECAUSE I CERTAINLY DID WHILE WRITING THIS

Anyway I hope you enjoyed the Four Part Spive Angst series! I did enjoy writing it for the most part and I’m glad you all like it

ALSO SILLY AXOSUN USERS

Plus my #1 Fan (They get their own section because of how COOL and AWESOME and NICE (evil) AND KIND (mean) THEY ARE!!!!!!

I WILL STILL BE WRITING MAYBE FLUFF MAYBE ANGST MAYBE HURT AND COMFORT IDK YET (A different server is demanding Spive fluff from me) SO KEEP ON THE LOOKOUT FOR THAT RAHHHHHHHH

(I was listening to this while writing someone of this fanfic as well you should too)

#regretevator #regretevator bive #regretevator split #split #bive regretevator #bive #split regretevator #bive x split #split x bive #spive angst #angst #fanfic #angst with a sad ending #regretevator spive #spive regretevator #spive #she regret on my evator

[lucentclan]

Moon 11!

Sparkstars leader ceremony under the cut! much longer than I intended, but I'm so emotional over these cats man

Sparkfire never intended to become leader.

and yet. here she was. staring down into the long abandoned burrow that led to an underground pool surrounded by glistening rocks that somehow still managed to reflect the starlight. She couldn't see the rocks from here, the darkness seemingly endless.

Newtstar was supposed to long outlive her. Sparkfire wasn't terribly older than him, but old enough. His nine lives weren't supposed to be gone that quickly.

Thinking of the previous leader makes her stomach churn with a mix of guilt and grief. *Why* had she encouraged the war against Fernclan? If she hadn't, the clan she and Newtstar worked so hard to bring together would still be thriving.

She was stupid and arrogant, but she can't change anything now.

With a deep breath, she ducks into the hole and makes her way down to the starpool. The dirt walls of the tunnel close around her, dirt and roots getting caught in her ginger fur and threatening to suffocate her.

After what feels like an eternity, the tunnel opens up to a small cave. In the center a glistening pool surrounded by similarly glowing rocks. The sight takes her breath away and she stands there for a moment, imagining the future generations of medicine cats and leaders of Lucentclan coming to this pool and etching their paw prints into the ground. Solidifying the clans legacy.

She shakes off her pelt as if shaking the thoughts away and steps up to the pool, her pawsteps echoing gently around her. Once to the waters edge, she lays down with her toes and chin barely brushing the cold water. The cold water sends a jolt through her but she quickly finds herself drifting off.

When she opens her eyes again, the cave has been replaced with inky blackness. Stars sparkle around her and the ground ripples underpaw as if she were standing on water.

From the darkness emerges all the cats she had grown to care for over the last few moons, The only one she didn't recognize was a black tabby that looked similar to Newtstar. She assumed it was Newtstars sister, Shardfoam. The she-cat had died far before Newtstar had left his old clan and met Sparkfire but Shardfoam had become their starclan guide after Newtstar had formed Lucentclan.

The first cat to step forward is Pepperflare, the black and white she-cats eyes showing warmth but also hesitance. Pepperflare stands infront of Sparkfire, "To start, I give you a life for friendship. Use it to treat others with the kindness you showed us in life." With that, she leans forward, only able to hope that Sparkfire uses her honeyed words and silver tongue well as they touch their nose to the leaders head. She steps back, bowing her head respectfully before drawing back into the line of starry furred cats.

The second to step infront of Sparkfire is Violethope, who's can't help but wonder if her head strong mentor will use her charm and popularity to make Lucentclan a better clan or for her own selfish gain. Her blue eyes glint with distrust, making Sparkfires heart lurch. The leader goes to speak, but is quickly cut off causing her to close her mouth with a click of teeth.

"I give you this life for farsightedness, to see any enemies before they strike and to recognize prosperous opportunities that come your way." She mews, voice more mature than it ever had been in life. Sparkfires legs almost buckle when Violethope presses her nose into ginger fur, sending the life flooding through her being. Violethope nods and turns to stand beside Pepperflare once more.

The next cat startles Sparkfire, stars reflecting in his youthful gaze as he trots up to Sparkfire. Sablepaw appears much friendlier than the previous two. "This life is for trust, to trust your clanmates and keep them close to your heart. I think you'll be a great leader!" He says cheerfully, stretching up to touch Sparkfires nose with his before backing up again to let Sparkfire regain her balance before rejoining the crowd also.

A cream tabby and white tom steps out next, it was their old medicine cat Rippleclaw. Rippleclaw was the start of the tragedies that hit their clan, having been killed by Fernclan which led to the war.

Sparkfire half expected hostility from the medicine cat, but was met with a warm smile instead. The tom leans forward until their noses are touching gently, this time the life feels like it flows through Sparkfire like the tide pools in their camp.

"With this life I give you wisdom. Take care of the clan the best you can. I believe in you." He purrs, voice hardly above a whisper. Sparkfire nods, thankful.

Shardfoam is next, the she-cat not giving away her true emotions. "I know you do not know me,  but I'm grateful for you taking over the clan and for helping Newtstar get as far as he did. I know you blame yourself, but do not.  This was the will of starclan." She leans forward, "I give you a life for duty. You are now responsible for the future of Lucentclan, be sure to make the right decisions." Shardfoam steps back into the line of cats.

and finally, Newtstar steps forward. His golden eyes stare into Sparkfires own olive ones, brimming with pride as he looks upon his old friend.

Sparkfire once again tries to speak,

"Newtstar, I-"

The black and white tom smiles and hushes her with a brush of his tail under her chin.

"Hush now, Sparkfire. I know what you're going to say, but as Shardfoam has told you, this is how it was meant to be." He leans forward and presses their noses together, sending warmth washing over Sparkfire. "With this life I grant you endurance in the face of hardship. It will only get harder from here, my friend. but you will always have friends and loved ones here in starclan. Live as Sparkstar, and lead our clan out of darkness and into the light we're named after."

Sparkstars shoulders shake with heavy sobs, overcome with emotion in front of the cat she had grown to care for so deeply. Sure, they disagreed on certain aspects and Sparkfire had violent thoughts but she would have never acted on them.

Before she can say anything, dozens of wispy, starry spirits emerge, quickly surrounding Sparkfire. "we grant you your remaining 3 lives." Individually, each voice is distant, but together, the force of their words shakes Sparkstar to her core. "Use them well, with our blessing." And in a heartbeat, they were gone and Sparkstar awakens with a jolt. The starpools cave now feeling more barren and lonely than when she arrived.

Sparkfire looks into her reflection on the water, determination now flooding through her. "I vow to protect Lucentclan, even at the cost of all my lives. The clan *will* live on."

And with that, she turns tail and heads home where Quailcall is waiting.

#clangen #lucentclan #sparkstar #quailcall

[kudossi]

held within the line that they have drawn

“This isn’t about powers or no powers,” Hollyleaf hisses, poised and deadly. Her lips are drawn back from her teeth, a growl rippling in her throat. “She’s eight moons old, Lionblaze. You’ll leave her alone or I’ll make you.”

Lionblaze looks almost taken aback, his claws sliding out on stone. “You can’t take me,” he says dangerously. “You have no power.”

“I don’t care,” Hollyleaf snarls. “I don’t care, I don’t care, I don’t care. But do you know what I do care about, Lionblaze?”

The golden tom’s hackles are risen now, making him look a giant, even beside his taller sister. “What, Hollyleaf? The warrior code? The way you tried to abandon us to do this alone?”

“I care about my apprentice,” Hollyleaf says, low as a snake’s hiss. “And as long as I am alive, you will not touch her.”

Lionblaze scoffs, a chuckle rumbling through him. “You want to talk about life? When you tried to throw yourself to your death?”

Dovepaw’s mentor freezes, even her frenzied tail stopping mid-motion. “You’ve no right,” she says. “None at all. You couldn’t care a whisker for me after you found out that I was powerless. I won’t let you do the same to Dovepaw.”

Lionblaze freezes, too, and the two cats stood motionless for a few heartbeats, only the wind ruffling their fur. “You know that’s not true,” the golden tom says, sounding hurt. “We love you, Hollyleaf, just as mu—”

“You have a funny way of showing it,” Hollyleaf interrupts him, limbs trembling. “What with you dropping me like a half-rotten rabbit—"

“That’s not fair,” Lionblaze argues. “Dovepaw has the third power. You need to give her to me, to us, so we can save the Clans.”

“I wouldn’t give her up if StarClan themselves came down and told me to,” Hollyleaf says. “No matter what you think of me, she is my apprentice and I know what’s best for her. Back off!”

Lionblaze’s eyes blow wide and then narrow, looking at her with something like shock. “You’d stand in the way of StarClan?” he asks.

Hollyleaf stills from where she’s trying unsuccessfully to block Dovepaw’s view.

Lionblaze looks down at her. Dovepaw shrinks away, and Hollyleaf hisses.

“You’ve really changed, haven’t you, Holly?” Lionblaze asks consideringly. His voice is tight as he takes a few steps forward; his long claws hook into dirt.

“Not as much as you have,” Hollyleaf replies simply.

There’s a beat of uncomfortable silence; it crackles like lightning between two littermates with mismatched destinies.

“Have it your way,” Lionblaze says eventually. “For now.” He spins and stalks toward camp, just out of the edge of their vision. Dovepaw can hear-hear-hear his heavy pawsteps come down, the way his claws haven't retracted, the growl he's hiding under his breath.

Dovepaw folds her ears back as she and Hollyleaf watch him go, Hollyleaf's scent still sad-angry-sad.

“You didn’t have to do that,” Dovepaw whispers once Lionblaze’s tail flicks past them, his thin sides disappearing through the thorn tunnel.

Hollyleaf sags, looking like all the energy’s been pulled out of her at once. “I wanted to,” she says. “You deserve a normal apprenticeship. Lionblaze just has muscle for brains.”

Dovepaw giggles despite herself, feeling her own muscles relax. “What did he mean,” she ventures eventually, “when he said you tried to throw yourself to your death?”

Her mentor stiffens. Dovepaw has half a mind to flinch away, but forces herself to relax. This is Hollyleaf, she reminds herself stubbornly. She’d never hurt me.

The black she-cat makes a sound between a sigh and a sob. “I’ll tell you when you’re older,” she says, voice thick.

"Okay," Dovepaw agrees softly, and presses against her mentor's side.

#hollyleaf #dovewing #lionblaze #power of three #po3 #hollyleaf trains dovewing #writing #warrior cats #warrior cats writing #wc #waca #hollyleaf wants dovewing to have a childhood #as she should have #maybe lionblaze is too aggressive in this but wow dovewing's childhood really was stolen #hollyleaf doesn't have powers #tw suicide attempt mention #tw suicide mention #not really but being cautious #hollyleaf wasn't like #trying to die #but she wasn't really thinking besides MUST LEAVE #and she got stopped in this AU so

[iamfabiloz]

@jayzzu hi sorry here if ur onefire fic thing sorry I went insane and wrote so much more than a paragraph I got too into it💔 i literally cannot just do a simple thing real!! I wrote context for the scene where onewhisker and firestar r cuddling after Tallstar kicks the bucket! It is currently 4:30am I started writing at like 2am I am so sick 😁 anyways enjoy!! There’s probably a bunch of mistakes but my vision is blurring so I’m gonna pass out now AAAJWJ oki gone

Onewhisker felt cold air seep into his bones, the wind felt strange and unfamiliar to his aching pelt. A black and white figure was slumped on the ground before him. The limp tom’s once fever-bright eyes were dull and void, no spark of recognition in them at all. The cat’s pelt was cold to the touch and rolled lifelessly when Onewhisker nudged it desperately. 

Tallstar was dead. 

Windclan cats milled around the body, dipping their heads solemnly and murmuring kind words. Onewhisker sat in silence only a few pawsteps away from the cat who had once been leader of WindClan. Morningflower, Onewhisker’s sister, was hunched over looking devastated. Onewhisker felt his heart twist as he heard her shaky sobs. 

Tallstar was her mentor. 

Ashfoot, Onewhisker’s other sister, was licking her head soothingly, though her own expression was deeply grim. 

Bitter bile rose in his throat, and overwhelming grief swept over him once more in a terrible wave. He had know Tallstar for so long, he had been something of a father figure to him, he wasn’t sure what he’d do without him. Onewhisker remembered being a small kit when Tallstar had been in his prime, leading WindClan valiantly. He was beloved, even by those not in WindClan. Onewhisker treasured those memories fondly, though sometimes he found himself wishing he were a kit again. But now he was a full-grown warrior, no long wet behind the ears and starry-eyed. And Tallstar was dead. Dead, dead, dead and hunting with StarClan forever. Onewhisker wished he could mourn in peace and just think about the good times with the old tom, but it wasn’t that simple. Before Tallstar had passed, he had given Onewhisker the most terrifying message he had ever received in his whole life.

He was to be the next leader of WindClan.

Onewhisker closed his eyes painfully at the memory, still feeling surprised at the fact that it was real. Everyone had expected Mudclaw, the clan’s actual deputy, to be the next leader. But, Tallstar had other plans. With his dying breaths, Tallstar had named Onewhisker as his successor, shaking the brown tabby warrior to his core. 

How am I going to do this? Onewhisker thought helplessly. I’m not ready to lead a whole clan. What about Mudclaw? He could feel the deputy’s glare burning into the back of his head. The disgraced dark brown tom was hunched over in the back of the crowd, looking mournful yet extremely cross. I would be mad too if someone stole my position. But Tallstar chose me. And I need to honor his word, no matter what Mudclaw thinks. Right?

Onewhisker exhaled deeply through his nose, feeling even more wretched. Thought he agreed with the thoughts in his mind, nagging doubt still ate at him. He turned to gaze at the crowd.

I wish Firestar was here.

As if on cue, a flame-colored form began weaving itself through the sea of pelts. Onewhisker stiffened as the familiar orange tom grew near. Firestar’s pelt was glossy and slick with rain, his muscles rippling strongly beneath his fur. The tom’s emerald green eyes gleamed like fireflies in the night, making Onewhisker feel fluttery. The handsome tom finally made it to Onewhisker’s side, sitting down next to him with a worried look. 

“Are you alright? Losing a leader is hard, I know how it is.” 

Firestar murmured, his word gentle, reaching out with a paw to place it on Onewhisker’s side. Onewhisker shivered at the touch, despite himself. All his miserable thoughts seemed to fade slightly into the background as he stared at the handsome ginger tom. But the elder’s dragging Tallstar away for burial preparation distracted him from his momentary bliss.

“I-It’s fine. I’m just thinking, you know..”

Onewhisker fumbled, failing to think think of the right words. He sighed again, feeling his chest grow heavy once more. Firestar blinked at him, concern shining in his eyes. 

“It’s alright, you can talk to me. I’m here for you Onewhisker, I’m your friend.” Firestar pressed closer, his tail flicking at Onewhisker’s own. Onewhisker’s muzzle twitched once, before he opened his mouth and spilled his guts.

“What if I’m not a good leader for WindClan? I wasn’t expecting this at all, how can I be ready? It’s too soon… Tallstar is going to be disappointed in me and so will all my clanmates, I- can’t do this, Firestar.”

Onewhisker clamped his jaws shut, preventing anymore of his own whiny rambling.

What was that? Onewhisker growled internally at himself. You made a complete fool of yourself, you rabbit-brain.

“I’m sorry, I don’t know where that came from.” Onewhisker muttered, his eartips burning with shame.

He looked wearily at Firestar, expecting a scornful look. Instead, Firestar’s warm face was filled with sympathy. Onewhisker stiffened as Firestar leaned over and buried his muzzle in Onewhisker’s shoulder. 

“It’s alright, I know how you feel.” The ThunderClan leader whispered, his voice brimming with unexpected emotion. 

“When Bluestar died, I felt hopeless and out of my league. She had been the only leader of ThunderClan I’d ever known and I’d never seen the position taken by anyone else. It was so jarring to have to take her place and lead ThunderClan, especially with Tigerstar around. Despite that, I knew that she wanted me to continue on without her. She believed in me and I know Tallstar had the upmost faith in you. He may have been on his death bed, but he was one of the wisest cats I’ve ever known. He chose you, for a reason. He knew that you were going to do amazing as leader, better than Mudclaw ever could. Everything is going to turn out great, I know it Onewhisker.”

Onewhisker felt his pelt grow increasingly warm. He leaned into the tom’s pelt, his comforting, foresty scent filling his nose. Onewhisker made a small choking noise and felt his eyes water. He had never felt so grateful and overwhelmed by kindness in his life. Utter fondness for the other tom washed over his pelt like an ocean wave, along with something else… Onewhisker swallowed hard, deep emotional babbling threatening to spill directly from his mouth. 

“I- thank you Firestar. That means a lot coming from you.” Onewhisker meowed huskily, daring to touch his nose to Firestar’s cheek.

Firestar’s rumbling purr sent shivers down Onewhisker’s spine. 

“Your very welcome. I would do anything for you, you know. I promise whatever’s coming we’ll face it together. You and I.” 

Firestar meowed, his honey-sweet voice encouraging. He pulled his head away from Onewhisker’s shoulder, much to the brown tabby’s silent disappointment. Firestar gave Mudclaw behind them an uneasy glance, but he turned back to gaze at Onewhisker warmly. 

Onewhisker struggled to keep it together,  the fur along his quivering subconsciously. He couldn’t help but smile, despite them being present at a funeral. Feeling better than he had in days, he purred softly. 

“I don’t deserve a friend like you.” Onewhisker murmured, glancing over Tallstar’s curled up form. It was now covered in lavender, mint and other sweet smelling herbs the elders had placed upon his deceased pelt. 

Firestar nuzzled the side of Onewhisker’s head affectionately. Onewhisker bit back a mew of a surprise. 

“Of course you do. Who else would in WindClan would I pester?” Firestar joked lightly. Onewhisker hid his smile by lifting a paw to his face. 

“Thunder-cat.” He hissed playfully. Firestar purred and sat up straight. The playful light in his pretty eyes died as he gazed solemnly at Tallstar’s body. 

“He was a good friend to us both.” Firestar mewed softly, his voiced cracking with emotion.

Onewhisker nodded sadly. 

“I’m going to miss him so much.”

 Onewhisker felt his stomach twist with grief again, but this time it was less sharp. Firestar’s warm presence soothed his turbulent emotions a smidge. But he felt his eyes brim with tears again and he couldn’t help but but lean against Firestar’s glossy orange shoulder and weep silently. Firestar shifted so that his head was resting on the top of Onewhisker’s own. The warm weight made Onewhisker squirm delightedly in his pelt despite himself. Onewhisker closed his eyes, feeling his tears dampen the fur on his face. 

Though he wept, he was no longer soul-crushingly hopeless. He still felt the sting of loss but it was greatly dulled by the presence of the ThunderClan leader and the reassurance he had brought. 

He had a … “friend”, someone who he could rely and depend upon. Someone who, dare he say it… loved him, truly, Firestar could see and understand Onewhisker in a way no other cat had before. 

He has a mate and kits! A rational inner voice chimed in the back of the smitten warrior’s head. But it quickly faded to the sidelines as Onewhisker squeezed his eyes tighter, relishing the touch of soft fur against his. He didn’t want to dwell on more happiness destroying knowledge today, thank you very much. Anways…

Onewhisker he loved him, right back, always. Though he couldn’t cohesively put it into words, even inside his mind, Onewhisker was painfully aware. But just for right now, he wouldn’t dwell upon what these thoughts said about him and his state of being. 

For now, the pitter patter of raindrops splashing against stone and grass filled his head, drizzling out any further thoughts. 

Firestar curled his tail over Onewhisker’s side, partially shielding his from the dripping water. Feeling like he could breath again, Onewhisker sucked in air  deeply, but this time it wasn’t out of fear or stress. 

It was out of simple contentment. 

I won’t let either of you down, he vowed, feeling the water droplets prick his pelt.  I’ll do my best to make you proud, Tallstar. And you too, he silently thought at the ginger tom curled around him. 

I promise. 

#onefire #firestar #onestar #writing prompt requests #warrior cats #wc #warriors #jayzzu #please help #fanfiction

[dawngen]

Ceremony days bore an infectious energy. Slowly seeping throughout the camp, even the most exhausted elder and grumpiest warrior could not help but feel a lightness to their pawsteps, a birdsong in their heart. Especially apprentice ceremony days.

It had been some moons since the tragic loss of Sunkit and Brightkit's kittypet mother, who had sacrificed herself in the name of her kits. Watching diligently over them, Darkstar felt satisfied in their growth under the wing of Boulderfrost. Her deputy was the perfect kit of an adoptive mother to these kits. Under her guidance, they flourished, and one would never think they bore soft kittypet blood.

These young cats were destined warriors, through and through.

"I am proud to call this Gathering today," Darkstar began, claws digging into the Great Oak at the peak of the camp to maintain her position, "to declare that we have two kits ready to graduate from the nursery, and begin their training as warriors."

From the collected group, there were yowls of excitement, cries of celebration for the two kits that they all knew were most deserving. At the front of the group, framed by the midday sun, Brightkit and Sunkit sat with their mother, Boulderfrost. Barely able to sit still, Brightkit visibly vibrated with her excitement, while Sunkit looked up frequently to check-in with Boulderfrost.

The pride on Boulderfrost's face warmed Darkstar's heart, and her eyes crinkled in a smile as she continued.

"Both now six moons, these kits have shown they are ready to join the clan."

With a swish of her tail, she looked down first upon Sunkit, who straightened considerably under her gaze.

"Sunkit, having reached the age of six moons, you are now ready to be an apprentice. From this day forth, until you are ready for your warrior name, you shall be known as Sunpaw. Your mentor shall be Lightstripe, who shall pass down his wisdom to you."

Another motion of her tail beckoned Lightstripe forward, who, with chest fluffed out, met newly named Sunpaw to touch noses with her. No longer did she look to Boulderfrost, instead gazing up at Lightstripe with thinly veiled excitement.

"As one of our clan founders, you bear a wisdom that is an invaluable resource. Pass down all that you know to Sunpaw, so that she, too, may become a part of the foundation of this clan."

Lightstripe bowed his head, and Sunpaw, freezing, soon followed suit before both cats stepped back. Darkstar turned her head, and looked fondly upon the overexcited Brightkit.

"Brightkit." Brightkit practically leapt to her feet, tail high in the air, copper eyes glinting in the sun. "You have also reached the age of six moons, and are ready to be an apprentice. Until the day of your warrior ceremony, you shall be known as Brightpaw. And your mentor..."

The collection of warriors looked amongst themselves, as none could recall Darkstar explicitly seeking them out to discuss mentoring Brightpaw. From the Great Oak, Darkstar crouched, before she sprung forward, landing back into the grotto's clearing.

"Shall be me, Darkstar."

Brightpaw looked nigh ready to faint, and Boulderfrost's eyes blew wide as well, surprised by the turn of events. A murmur rippled through the gathering of cats, and unbeknownst to Darkstar, in the background, a flash of jealousy lit in Sunpaw's eyes, her visible excitement dimming from a flame, to a mere ember.

"I promise to pass all that I know to you, and teach you the meaning of being a warrior," Darkstar said, and Brightpaw, recovering, stood especially straight as she met her leader's gaze. "May we have many fruitful moons together."

As she finished her words, her tail lifted, and with it rose the voices of the clan.

Sunpaw! Brightpaw! Sunpaw! Brightpaw!

The forest was filled with their cheers of celebration as they cried out the new names of the two apprentices, with Boulderfrost yowling the loudest of them all as she stood tall and proud.

As the cries of celebration slowly faded, in the distance, Sunpaw excused herself to the apprentice's den, citing feeling suddenly unwell. As she left, a wayward glance was paid over her shoulder, and enviously, she stared as Darkstar and Brightpaw touched noses.

#clangen #warriors #warrior cats #darkstar #boulderfrost #lightstripe #sunpaw #brightpaw

[twilights-800-cats]

<< Chapter 18 || Chapter 19 || Chapter 20 || From the Beginning || Patreon >>

Chapter 19

Crowflight found himself walking along the bank of the river, and he knew this was a dream.

It was easy to tell, really. The stars were so close he wondered if he could touch them with a paw, though he daren’t try. Not only that, but the air was warm, and the trees on both sides of the water were filled with vibrantly green leaves that shimmered with dewy light. The moon was huge and full, filling the lake with its pure, white glow.

And Crowflight wasn’t alone.

Shadepaw walked beside him, their pelts brushing so close that they might as well be walking as one. He could feel her heart beating against his, and could look over and see the shine of stars in her eyes. She smelled of ThunderClan but that didn’t matter, not here – it was the smell of his dear friend, and this was a dream.

Together they walked along the river, their paws turned upstream. The land was harsh and craggy, growing steeper and steeper as they journeyed, their stride as familiar as breathing as the trees gave way to hilly moorland. It wasn’t like their first journey, no, nor even the Great Journey; but it was the two of them together, traveling, knowing one another’s movements as if they were their own.

He missed this.

Before he had been chosen by StarClan, there had been nothing like this feeling within his own Clan, with his own Clanmates. He was always set apart, the deputy’s apprentice and the prior deputy’s son and the only survivor of his litter, expected to be better than the others and treated as if he already was, even if he really wasn’t. Looked at as if he were someone else, born again.

The other chosen cats had never treated him like that.

Shadepaw had never treated him like that.

He looked at her now, at the way that her eyes were focused ahead, concentration lining her features. Did she know that? Had he ever managed to tell her?

“I don’t understand it,” Shadepaw murmured.

“Understand what?” Crowflight wondered.

Shadepaw stopped, and Crowflight stopped with her. They were at the edge of WindClan territory, just a pawstep away from the wild moorland beyond. Shadepaw was staring at the land ahead, and then she moved her gaze to the river.

“I keep dreaming of this place,” she said. She leaned her muzzle down, staring into her own starry reflection. “This place, this journey... and you.”

Crowflight was confused. Though he was aware this was indeed a dream, he didn’t have enough wherewithal to grasp what she was saying, why she sounded so strange. He looked down at his own reflection and saw it beside hers, and that made him happy – didn't it do the same for Shadepaw?

“StarClan is telling me something, I know it,” Shadepaw meowed. She reached out a paw and touched the water, sending ripples through the starlight. “But what?”

“Maybe they’re telling you that everything will be okay?” Crowflight guessed. “That we can...”

Can what? His next words rested on his tongue, but he didn’t know what they would be. He felt tangled up in them, lost in a bramble of things he’d like to say but wasn’t sure if it was really him saying it: If it was something he was supposed to do, or something he wanted to do.

Shadepaw looked at him funny. Crowflight had the distinct feeling that he was a distraction from her thoughts.

“I wish things were clearer,” Shadepaw sighed. She touched her nose to Crowflight’s. “I wish they would just tell me what they want me to know, to do...”

It was a good-bye. Crowflight felt the dream breaking down. He didn’t want it to, but he knew he was powerless to stop it.

“I’m sure you’ll figure it out,” Crowflight told her, as she faded. He willed her to see in herself what he did. “You’re smart, Shadepaw. Kind and sweet, and...”

She was gone.

———————————————————

“Great StarClan!”

Crowflight’s eyes snapped open.

Normally, it would have taken his eyes a moment to adjust to the darkness of the rain den, but not this morning – part of the den’s ceiling had collapsed, raining sticks and, worst of all, snow, onto half the nests inside.

Crowflight got to his paws and edged back, grateful that his part of the den had been spared. It had snowed every night since the Gathering, as if it had been waiting for just the right opportunity – Crowflight supposed it was only natural that something like this might happen.

“Poppyfoot!” complained Softbreeze. “I thought you said that these were secure?”

Poppyfoot was rooting through the debris. The young tortoiseshell looked upset that her work had been so outdone. She lifted a twig with a paw and then let it fall.

“The support is still there,” Poppyfoot reported. Though that was good news, apparently, she still seemed somber. “It’s just the rest of it that wasn’t put together right.”

“That’s all right, Poppyfoot,” Ashfoot sighed. She bent her head to lick her chest fur. “No one got hurt, that’s what matters.”

“I’ll work on it right away,” Poppyfoot promised.

“You’ll have the apprentices.”

“Apprentices?” Webfoot lifted his head. “I was going to assess Weaselpaw today.”

“Thistlepaw, too,” Tornear put in.

Ashfoot shook her head. “It’ll have to be put off,” she said, an apology in her tone. “This is more important.”

Webfoot sighed. To Tornear, he offered, “I guess we can assess their ability to find strong sticks?”

Tornear looked annoyed, but he got to his paws and stretched. “It shouldn’t take too long.”

Poppyfoot looked at both senior warriors gratefully. “Thornpaw, too?” she suggested. “She’s got a good eye...”

“I need Thornpaw on nursery duty,” Ashfoot stated, shaking her head. “Robinwing’s moving in today and we need to see her comfortable.”

Crowflight tried not to cringe. He couldn’t imagine what it would be like for Thornpaw to have to prepare a den, especially after the Gathering a few nights ago. Her peers in the other Clans were probably leading border patrols right now. He was grateful that they hadn’t any elders, else poor Thornpaw might be combing their pelts for ticks.

“Crowflight, you help Poppyfoot,” Ashfoot decided. She licked a paw and drew it over her ear. “At least until Thornpaw is free.”

Crowflight tried not to groan.  

The others got on with their jobs, though, and so Crowflight knew he had to do the same. He wasn’t chosen for this because he was best, he knew, it was mostly because he’d been right there, and everyone else was already assigned. Poppyfoot seemed grateful, regardless.

“I’m sure it won’t be long,” Poppyfoot said, her gaze sympathetic. “Now, can you help me clear all this out?”

By the time he was done, his paws felt like frozen blocks, and it was sunhigh. Snow was falling quietly, promising more layers to test Poppyfoot’s dens. As Crowflight helped Poppyfoot clear out the rain den, he spotted Thornpaw moving back and forth between the nursery and medicine cat’s den, sometimes with moss, sometimes with leaves, but always carrying an intensely sad expression.

When she was done, the young she-cat immediately crossed the clearing to meet up with him.

“Ashfoot told me to help you and Poppyfoot,” she said.

Though Crowflight had been promised relief by now, the other apprentices weren't back. So, he set to work tugging and manipulating twigs with Poppyfoot and Thornpaw. He wasn’t at all good at it, he knew – the she-cats mainly used him for holding things in place while they worked on the more delicate tasks. It was still exhausting, and being stuck inside the den was making him stiff and skittish.

As if she could sense it, Poppyfoot offered, “Go grab us some fresh-kill, will you? We could all use a break.”

Crowflight was happy to oblige. He slipped out of the den like a hare and trotted towards the fresh-kill pile, which was situated beneath its own canopy of woven grass. This roof, and the roof of the rain dens next to it, seemed intact, built at an angle to slough the snow off from the hill.

Hunters had brought in fresh prey, and when Crowflight grasped a rabbit in his jaws, he scented Duskwhisker. His heart panged – he would’ve loved to hunt with her, instead of spending his day stuck inside the rain dens and being poked with sticks.

When he turned back, he spotted a dark shape talking with Poppyfoot and Thornpaw – Mudclaw.

Unease twisted his gut. As Crowflight dragged the rabbit back, he tried to put it aside: Ever since the Gathering, Mudclaw had been downright civil. He still hadn’t left the camp – some cats were wondering if he was just planning to retire, and Onewhisker didn’t seem inclined to stop those rumors. As far as Crowflight knew, that one night meeting under the rowan tree had been the only one, and the cats that had sounded supportive to Mudclaw’s words had been otherwise silent.

Still, the sight of Mudclaw talking to anyone alone still stirred feelings of worry in Crowflight. What did he want?

“Oh, that looks lovely, Crowflight!” Poppyfoot purred, eyes lighting up at the sight of the rabbit. “Prey here is just so plump!”

Crowflight handed it off to her. “You two can have it,” he reasoned. “You’re working a lot harder. I’ll grab something else for myself.”

Thornpaw opened her jaws to object – she was still an apprentice, after all – but Poppyfoot urged her aside. The two slipped out of the den, settling not far off to share their meal.

“It’s a shame,” Mudclaw rasped. “Thornpaw is wasted on a task like this.”

“She’s good at it,” Crowflight mewed. He tested a paw on the ground, unsure if he felt a splinter. “Unlike most of us.”

Mudclaw narrowed his gaze. “She should be a warrior.”

“She should,” Crowflight agreed, giving his pad a lick. It didn’t seem like there was anything there, but he really didn’t want to meet Mudclaw’s eye.

“And you’re not meant for this, either,” Mudclaw went on. “I doubt StarClan chose you for your ability to see one stick from another. I certainly didn’t train you up so that you’d be stuck fixing dens.”

“Well, it’s what I was told to do,” Crowflight countered. “By the deputy.”

“It wouldn’t need to be done at all if Poppyfoot had been given the time to set things up properly,” Mudclaw muttered. “We should have all our warriors hunting, this deep into leafbare. How much fresh-kill was on the pile?”

“Enough,” Crowflight answered. “For now.”

“For now.”

Crowflight’s shoulders sagged. “Do you want us to hunt the moors dry?” he wondered, frustration edging his voice. “What will that accomplish? The prey here is fat, we can survive on half as much as we’re used to!”

“I’m just saying that things are disorganized,” Mudclaw growled back. “Surely you see that?”

Crowflight bit his tongue. Of course he did – there was no denying that WindClan had been disorganized since they’d stepped paw by the lake! Crowflight’s pelt fluffed in the cold.

“Instead of blaming everything on Onewhisker, why not do something about it?” he hissed. “Why not try helping him, instead of moping around camp all day?”

Mudclaw bristled at that, and Crowflight saw anger spark in the older tom’s eye. Crowflight knew he had ruffled the tabby tom’s pride.

“You still don’t understand,” Mudclaw growled. “I don’t know if you ever will.”

Crowflight opened his jaws to ask what he meant, but he was cut off – Thistlepaw and Weaselpaw pushed their way through the gorse tunnel. Thistlepaw bore in his jaws a fat pheasant, a rarity in leafbare, and Weaselpaw had a trio of mice dangling against his chin. Tornear and Webfoot followed their apprentices in, looking proud.

“Oh, look at my little hunters!” Softbreeze cooed. She licked both between the ears, her purr audible across the entire camp.  

“I sent you for sticks!” Ashfoot sighed, looking to their mentors. “Where are they?”

“Just outside,” Webfoot mewed, gesturing with his tail to reassure her.

Tornear nodded. “We got plenty, but we thought we’d assess them anyway. There was just so much prey scent in the area, and look at what they found!”

Ashfoot glanced at Onewhisker, who was emerging from his den. The pale warrior looked at the apprentices, a smirk on his muzzle.

“It is a good catch,” he pointed out. He glanced at Ashfoot. “And they still did as they were asked. I’d say they passed.”

Ashfoot sighed. “Well, I wasn’t going to say they hadn’t...”

Onewhisker looked proudly at both of the apprentices. “You’re both very good hunters,” he praised. “Now, go deliver some of that to Robinwing, and then help Poppyfoot with the dens.”

“Yes, Onewhisker!” Thistlepaw mewed, tail straight up.

Weaselpaw hesitated, though. He looked up at Onewhisker, the trio of mice at his paws. “When can we be warriors?” he wondered. “Are we going to be stuck as apprentices forever, like Thornpaw?”

The entire Clan paused. All eyes looked to Onewhisker, and Crowflight’s pelt itched with discomfort. He glanced at Thornpaw, who immediately got up to her paws and slipped inside the collapsed rain den. Poppyfoot, tail twitching, followed her.

Onewhisker cleared his throat. “Thornpaw isn’t stuck as an apprentice, and certainly not for forever,” he reasoned. “She’ll have her name, as soon as a new Moonstone is found.”

Weaselpaw glanced at Thistlepaw. The two looked uncertain, but walked off anyway. Thistlepaw took his pheasant to the nursery, while Weaselpaw slipped his mice into the fresh-kill pile.

The rest of the Clan separated, after that. The mood had certainly shifted to something more somber, more tense. Onewhisker gestured with his tail to Ashfoot, and the two slipped into Onewhisker’s den inside the hill.

Beside Crowflight, Mudclaw scoffed. “At least when I held you back, it was because of your lack of ability,” he grumbled. “If it were me, Thornpaw would have her warrior name, StarClan or not.”

Crowflight curled his lip. “That’s the difference then, isn’t it? It’s not you.”

Mudclaw’s shoulders stiffened, but he said nothing. He stalked away, heading for the rowan tree.

Crowflight rolled his eyes – at one point, he had sympathy for Mudclaw’s grievances. Now, they just seemed sad.

———————————————————

Snow had gathered in a nice fresh layer all around camp and all Crowflight wanted to do was head into his nest and sleep. He’d finally been able to get out of camp for a patrol with Duskwhisker and Softbreeze, and they hadn’t gotten back until moonrise.

He’d had to hear all along the way how proud of her kits Softbreeze was, how of course they brought back such nice prey, that they were naturals – it had at least made for some great material to joke about with Duskwhisker behind her back.

“My kits are so perfect, they can fly!” Duskwhisker had crowed.

“Well, my kits are so perfect, prey just runs into their paws and dies!” Crowflight had joked back.

If Softbreeze had heard any of it, she didn’t say.

“It should hold up,” Poppyfoot promised as cats filed in to sleep. She gestured to the thick sticks between the dirt floor and the roof. “We put lots of extra support in! Weaselpaw even jumped all over the roof, just to be sure!”

Crowflight circled his nest, bumping his back against Duskwhisker as she laid down, too. He felt her curl up tight, readying herself for a deep sleep.

“Night,” he offered.

Duskwhisker opened an eye and chuckled, “Sweet dreams.”

Crowflight rolled his eyes and put his head on his paws. After how dull today was, he was quite looking forward to a nice dream, one that was gentle and familiar...

A screech broke the night air:

“Foxes!”

#tb au #tb starlight

[strelles-universe]

Clan Names Part 15: Water Based

Due to the nature of the clans, RiverClan is the clan with the most frequent use of water based names but they're by no means the only one. The water is extremely expressive and any cat who's familiar with a form of water is typically quick on understanding a cat's personality even if they don't personally know what their name means.

Brook, Creek: A name primarily used by RiverClan. Tranquil and rational, a cat with who thinks before acting.

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Dew: Used by all clans equally. A cheerful or high energy cat, this name is seen as youthful, a blue or white cat.

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Drizzle: Primarily a RiverClan name. A calm or even tempered cat, someone who is hard to anger, a dark blue cat.

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Flood: A primarily RiverClan name. Rambunctious and chaotic, someone who is intense and skilled in battle.

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Hail: Primarily a RiverClan or a WindClan name. A cat who is tolerant and reserved, someone who is aggressive, a common name for a pale furred cat.

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Mist(y), Fog(gy): A primarily RiverClan or ShadowClan name. A cat with pale or faded markings, someone who’s obtuse or hard to understand, usually a white or blue cat.

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Pool, Puddle: Primarily a RiverClan name. Gentle or wise, “puddle” has an implication of youthfulness or naiveness while pool implies experience and caution.

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Rain: Used by all clans equally. A cat who is calm and thoughtful, when named during droughts, it typically it means “blessing.”

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River: Used by all clans but RiverClan. A cat who is adaptable, swift or headstrong. Within RiverClan, “river” may only be used as a suffix as it's seen as disrespecting Riversoul should it be a prefix. Cats with "-river" as their suffix in RiverClan are heavily pressured and frequently told that Riversoul himself in watching their every pawstep.

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Ripple: Primarily RiverClan or ShadowClan. A good hunter, a cat who is excitable or very active. Roundabout replacement for -ear when used as a suffix.

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Splash: Primarily a RiverClan. A cat who is friendly or outgoing, also refers to sweet or naive cats.

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Storm: Primarily a RiverClan and a ThunderClan name. Skilled or clever, someone who is intimidating.

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Stream: Primarily used by RiverClan or ThunderClan. A cat who is motherly or brave, someone who is determined or aggressive.

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Tide: Primarily a RiverClan or a ShadowClan name. A cat who is forceful and intimidating, someone intense or flippant.

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Wave: Primarily a RiverClan or a ShadowClan name

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A cat who is strong and loyal, someone who is reliable- frequently given to silver or pale gray cats.

#names #warrior cats #erin hunter #fanfiction #fanfic #warrior cats fanfic #erin hunter warriors #worldbuilding #lore #fantasy cultue #strelles shorerisen

[one-boring-person]

Requested by: @phantomshadow13

I hope you like it!😊💛

Killjoy.

John Rambo (Rambo III) x reader

Warnings: minor death, cringy ass cat name because I couldn't think of better

Masterlist

The familiar sound of padding footsteps, or rather pawsteps, draws me from the book in my lap, my head lifting to find the source of the quiet noise. A smile plays at my lips as I catch sight of the lithe black cat trotting over to my hammock, his wide green eyes staring up at me as he makes a light chirping sound in greeting, his tail in the air as he comes over. Placing down my book, I swing myself off of the hammock and crouch down to meet him, chuckling when he immediately butts his head against my hand, rubbing himself against me with a low purr of content. 

"Hey, buddy, where've you been?" I murmur to him, scratching behind his ears as he arches up into my touch, eyes dropping closed in enjoyment, "You've been gone all day."

The cat, who John aptly named Killer due to his slightly murderous nature, chirps again, as if in reply, moving away towards the other end of the veranda my hammock is areung up on, glancing back at me with a swish of his tail. Curious, I stand and follow him, amused by his need for attention as he meows at me, almost as if telling me to go faster, ears flicked back to make sure I'm still following. Easily keeping pace with him, I let him lead me to the steps of our little living area, where I stop stock still.

Killer stalks nonchalantly over to his latest prey, pawing at the disgruntled snake with no apparent care for the danger that poses. In response the snake hisses and curls in on itself, drawing back with intention to strike out, the sight of which makes me highly nervous.

Eyes wide, I move in and grab Killer, cradling the cat to my chest as I debate what to do, holding the writhing animal steady as he tries to get away, batting at my face as he attempts to get back at his new quarry.

"What the hell am I supposed to do now, you daft cat?" I mutter to him, rolling my eyes at his antics, not unused to this occurrence.

When John and I had first moved into the living quarters at the monastery, we'd quickly found the small black cat squatting here, using it for shelter as much as we did. Naturally, the two of us decided to take him in, finding the little animal endearing and sweet, and particularly affectionate. We never named him, not until he started to bring back dead animals, which was just small birds and mice-type things at first, prompting John to eventually start nicknaming him Killer, a name I wasn't so sure about, but that stuck in any case. As time went on, the black cat then brought back bigger and more interesting kills, or prey, as some were not even dead yet, things like large spiders, huge rats and some lizards making appearances on our front step, amongst the assortment of random bits and pieces he also brought us. Neither John nor I care too much, choosing just to clear away any dead animals, or catch and free any living ones, accepting that this may well be Killer's way of showing some affection.

He's never, however, brought back a snake before.

Looking at it now, I'm surprised he managed to catch that thing, acknowledging that snakes are mostly very fast animals, much too agile for a cat to catch, normally. Just as I think this, however, Killer manages to wriggle free of my grip, launching himself at the snake, ignoring the hiss it sends his way, spitting back at it instead, fur fluffing up around his body. I don't quite manage to catch him, calling out his name as he leaps at the snake, which draws back and prepares to strike properly, its jaw opening to reveal needle-sharp fangs.

At the last minute, Killer finds himself once again lifted into the air, this time by John, who walks up the steps in time to see him try and make a lunge. The veteran manages to grip the cat much tighter, soothing him a little as he rubs Killer's head, eyes swiftly finding the snake as he tries to ignore the cat's paws batting at his slightly sweaty hair.

"He brought back a snake?!" Is all he can say, brow furrowed, almost as if impressed.

"Yeah, a dangerous one, too." I reply grimly, edging slowly to the side to grab a nearby stick we use for John's fighting.

"He goes for the big guns." John chuckles, carefully holding Killer, who has relaxed into the man's grip, always having preferred his touch to mine.

"Yeah, he really does." I respond, moving up to the snake in its blind spot, before reaching out and swiftly flicking it into the bushes by our little hut.

Thankfully, the trick works, the snake disappearing back into the wild as both John and I relax, Killer letting out a low whine, struggling to get out of John's grip. Shaking his head, John sets him down, stroking along the cat's back before he trots off to another corner of the living space to sulk.

Exchanging a glance, we laugh a little, the sweaty man coming over to briefly wrap an arm around my waist, pulling me in to press a swift kiss to my lips. Kissing back, I smile into the gesture until he pulls away, moving away from me to pull off his shirt, exposing his muscular torso to the cooling evening air, the beads of sweat glistening in the fading light. Unable to tear my eyes away, I watch as each muscle ripples with each movement, eyeing him as he shakes out his long hair, his dark eyes easily meeting mine again.

"You're staring." He points out, smirking a little.

Blushing, I blink and look away, laughing him off.

"Wasn't staring at you." I try to disagree, though I know he definitely caught me.

"Not what it looked like." John murmurs, suddenly much closer to me, face inches from mine, his breath fanning out over my face, our lips nearly touching.

Swallowing, I told my head up a little, waiting for him to make a move, only to be interrupted by a series of meows. We both sigh, glancing over at the black cat, who is now laying in the corner, green eyes narrowed as he watches us, his expression almost disapproving.

"Killjoy." I mutter, heat rising to my cheeks as John chuckles and steps away again, grabbing a clean shirt, which he pulls on.

"I called him Killer for a reason." He shrugs, taking a seat on his hammock, the two of us watching as our adopted cat glares off into the distance.

#rambo x reader #rambo imagine #rambo iii #rambo #john rambo x reader #john rambo #sylvester stallone #sly stallone

[embersoftheforest]

RiverClan warrior names

Every warrior is named for something. We wanted to share why our warriors have those names and who named them - starting with RiverClan!

Crookedjaw was named by Hailstar, his name given for his crooked jaw. Oakheart was named for his passion and the care he showed his Clanmates by Hailstar. Mudfur got his name for being a well-rounded warrior and his distinctive coat, named by Hailstar.

Voleclaw was named by Hailstar for his fierceness in battle. Using the suffix -fish used to be common for extraordinary fishers, but Sunfish was named by Hailstar for the ease with which she dove into the river. Frogleap was named for his grace and willingness to leap into any situation whole-hearted by Hailstar. Sedgecreek was named by Hailstar for always chattering like a creek. Reedtail was named for his long tail that always gave away his position to Clanmates, given to him by Hailstar. Loudbelly was named by Hailstar, with both for his fierce hunger and his loud, happy purr contributing to his name. Leopardfur was named Leopard by her parents, and Hailstar chose to call her Leopardfur to honour her father and her striking spotted appearance. Blackclaw was named by Hailstar for his fierce fighting skills. Ripplerain was the first to be named by Crookedstar, named for his calm demeanour. Mallowtail found her confidence as an apprentice and was able to lead her Clanmates through good or bad. She was always there to soothe other cats with her fluffy tail, so was named by Crookedstar for it. Dawnbright was always a shining light as an apprentice, so she was named by Crookedstar for her bright personality. Between her stealthy nature and always being willing to lend a paw to her Clanmates, Crookedstar had no trouble choosing Mistyfoot's name. Warriors used to joke that Stonepaw had the muscles and fur of an immovable stone, and his quiet nature beside his sister did nothing to dissuade them of this, earning him the name Stonefur from Crookedstar. Whiteclaw was named by Crookedstar for his skill in battle and always being willing to confront cats who insulted RiverClan. Mosspelt liked to hide amongst the moss when fetching bedding, but this didn't give her her name - instead Crookedstar named her Mosspelt because she was a well-rounded warrior with a more dilute tortoiseshell pelt than her mother. Greenflower was named by Crookedstar for the softness with which she treated her Clanmates. Silverstream was named by Crookedstar because she was a natural at swimming, as well as her silver pelt mimicking the ripples of the river.

Petaldust was named by Hailstar for her light pawsteps that hardly disturb dust.

Shimmerpelt was named by Hailstar for her sleek pelt that made her look almost like a fish when swimming. Greypool's name was requested by her mother, to remind her she had the strength of RiverClan within her, as well as being reasonable and calm in the face of danger. Hailstar granted her her name. Softwing was named for overcoming her fear of heights, and the bravery she showed as an apprentice, by Hailstar. Beetlenose earned his name with his keen senses and bold attitude, named by Hailstar. As a kit and apprentice, Skyheart was always known to be adventuruous and full of courage, so Hailstar named her for her heart.

#riverclan #warrior names #naming system #allegiances #wc fan content

[sillspore]

Show us some of your mothpool art! Pretty please?

of course, anon!!! have a mothpool blessed day

#erin hunter warriors #warriors #warrior cats #warriors rewrite #warriors au #warriors designs #warriors fanart #leafpool #mothpool #mothwing #rippling pawsteps

[iolitemoth]

Moth’s FanClan Rehaul Part 2

This part is quite a bit longer than the first, so I’m putting it under a read more again. Enjoy!

Part Three: Belief System

To be honest, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to keep StarClan as the belief system/afterlife so I thought up a few different things. There are four major parts to the belief system to match the four clans, but so far I’ve only got concrete ideas for three.

I. Ancestors are cats who have passed away. It’s believed that it takes a few years/generations to actually join the ancestors, as your soul presumably wasn’t very old when you died. Elders are thought to join a little sooner than most (because, you know, they’re already old).

The Founders are the very first clan cats and the most revered. Usually it’s the Leaders/Deputies/Medicine Cats who are spoken of the most, but there are a few notable others. The rest are normally referred to as a collective whole. These cats are especially revered and looked up to, and considered to be very powerful.

II. Spirits are the general spirits of the land as well as more specific ones. General/’normal’ spirits don’t do much, just whatever happens to be their usual thing. These can represent a certain element or section of land or an animal(s).

Some spirits are referred to more specifically. These usually bring warnings, lead lost travelers to safety or trap the unwary, or some other purpose other spirits don’t (or won’t) do.

Example: Spirit of Warning- said to be extremely alarming in appearance with a thin body, dark, ragged coat, too-long ears, and strangely coloured eyes with permanently slit pupils. This spirit doesn’t... talk, really, and instead stares or makes noises of alarm. Most often appears before catastrophe or great danger. It’s unknown if there’s just one.

III. Patrons are specific spirits/cats who, at some point, became renowned either by some great deed/action, legend, or rumours. These highly revered souls reside over certain parts of the natural world. Many of their names have been lost to time, and most only know them by their title. They aren’t full manifestations of their element or concept, more a general depiction.

Notable or Most Known Patrons

A. Patron of Family: Loving, caring, accepting of all who claim the bond of family. Wears a flower to symbolize love, dedication, compassion (the flower and meanings vary but they tend to be more or less the same). A fierce protector against those who seek to threaten or break the bonds of family. Bright, warm, mismatched eyes symbolize you don’t need to share blood to share a bond.

B. Icestep, Patron of Ice: Often regarded as the herald of deep winter, freezing temperatures, more ice than usual. Their white paws symbolize the building of snow and ice- mittens on their front paws are the first steps of winter, barely higher than one’s paws. Socks on their back paws herald the increase of the season. Many consider them as cold as their element, but no one knows for sure. Perhaps they’re just quiet or reclusive. Drooping, spiked fur resembles icicles and ice-blue eyes are sharp and cold.

C. Patron of Fog: A small, very fluffy patron who heralds the coming of fog. Their thick fur represents the thickness of their namesake. Things tend to sound muffled when they’re near, especially their pawsteps. Very playful and fairly sociable.

D. Patron of Storms: Contrary to what you might expect, this patron is no stormcloud! Social, intruiged by anything that catches their interest, they almost make storms seem at least tolerable. Dark markings on a grey coat symbolize storm clouds in a dark sky. Big and fluffy to represent building clouds.

E. Patron of Change: Recognizable by the two different patterns on their coat, this patron heralds any and all change. Some say their coat changes every time you see them, but, well, that just fits, doesn’t it? It’s unknown if their odd eyes symbolize the past + future, different kinds of change, or that’s just how they are. You’d have to ask them yourself, but who says you’d get a straight answer?

F. Patron of Wind: Wild-furred and grey eyed, this is a true incarnation of the wind. Gently curled whiskers symbolize the gentle breeze, while permanently torn ears are a testament to how terrible and strong it can become. Messy, blurred markings resemble speed. Often seen with leaves or other debris stuck in their fur. Sleek build for swiftness.

G. Patron of Fire: Another opposite to expectations, this patron often rushes to save those caught or threatened by flames. Ash and burnt plants are stuck in their fur, and their body is littered with scars, particularly their face and paws, as a result of forcing their way through to reach those in danger. Big build and eyes like living embers. Surprisingly soft-furred.

H. Patron of Sand: Lithe and sleek with yellow eyes and dark markings make this patron perfect for their element. Quiet but quick, willing to hide or burst outward in a blinding explosion. Scars show the abrasive, cutting nature of loose particles caught in the wind.

I. Patron of Water: This patron has a calm, kind nature with a penchant for watching things play out. Their coat mimics the ripples and play of light in waves, with darker stripes on a silvery coat overlaid with white. Several scars can be seen on their body, most notably on their face and head.

#warriors #fanclans #belief systems #ancestors #spirits #patrons #tumblr deleted everything so now i have to write the whole thing again #>:( #if anyone has an idea for the fourth feel free to tell me! #i am very stuck #long post #worldbuilding #a clowder of clans

[signs-of-the-moon]

Moon Rise: Chapter 52

"Swiftcloud!" The voice called again, sounding like an echo in her ears. Swiftcloud hardly reacted, remaining as stiff as an icicle. Was it her mind? Was it a Starclan warrior yowling at her to stop?

"Swiftcloud!" The third time the voice sounded, Swiftcloud broke from her rage. The world, once blurry and distant, came rushing back into her vision in vibrant color. Blinking, the patched she-cat turned her head. She took notice of her clanmates surrounding her now, wide eyed and bristling. Whitestar stood closest of all, a paw raised to her chest in shock. Instantly Swiftcloud's blood ran cold, fear tightening her chest. It had been the leader's voice which had been calling her name. The situation must look bad. Swiftcloud was standing on top of Grassclan's eldest medicine cat, ready to strike her without mercy. Without proper context it must look like she was trying to kill Snowfrost in cold blood. Like she was the clan's murderer all along. When the opposite was true. Oh how Swiftcloud knew it was true. I'm in trouble...

What would happen now, Swiftcloud wondered. Harming a medicine cat was an incredibly serious offense. Surely Grassclan would not want to keep her among their ranks. They'd never believe that she only attacked Snowfrost to avenge their fallen deputy; after all, what proof did she have? I'm probably about to be exiled; stripped of my warriorship and sent running back to Twolegplace. Or worse...I'll be executed!

"I can't believe you've done this..." Whitestar hissed, voice barely above a whisper. Her pale blue eyes shone with fury, a layer of grief masked behind her expression. Swiftcloud shrank in place, but did not dare to step off of Snowfrost. "It took so long for the clan to trust you. Yet you've betrayed us, after everything we've done for you."

Swiftcloud gulped, wanting to disappear. She tried her best to keep her trembling at bay but she knew the clan could probably tell how scared she was by scent alone. This is it...

"I knew we shouldn't have accepted you. And I knew...I knew I should have trusted Swiftcloud more."

Huh?!

"Guards, seize Snowfrost."

Rabbitstorm and Beetlepatch came marching forward at once, expressions stone cold and serious.

"Step aside," Rabbitstorm commanded his friend softly. Swiftcloud remained still, unsure if she could even move at all. Slowly she tested her limbs, making each take a couple of pawsteps back until she realized that she had moved completely off of Snowfrost. Rabbitstorm seized the medicine cat by the scruff while Beetlepatch gripped her carefully on the other side.

"Bring Snowfrost back to camp so we may hold a trial to decide her fate. Sheeptail and Tigerfang, carry Chicorynose home with us. Cricketsong, Quailbelly, Swiftcloud, please join me at the head of the patrol."

At once, cats moved into formation, standing behind Whitestar as she waited for her sisters and Swiftcloud to stand beside her.

"Let go of me you rabbit-brains!" Snowfrost demanded with a snarl, trying to wiggle out of the guards' grasp. Rabbitstorm and Beetlepatch gripped harder, tugging her in the direction of home. After another heartbeat of hesitation, Swiftcloud scurried over to Whitestar, still on edge. Whitestar glanced at her with a sad smile as they stood side by side, waving her tail and marching forward. The clan followed, soft chatter rippling through the patrol. On the opposite side of their leader, Swiftcloud could hear the heartbroken sobs of Cricketsong and Quailbelly, who pressed into one another as they traveled. Whitestar leaned into Cricketsong for support, and Swiftcloud found herself pressing her flank in the siamese molly's other side.

"Whitestar..?" Swiftcloud piped quietly. Whitestar glanced at her, humming in response. "You..believe I wasn't attacking Snowfrost maliciously?"

"Yes. For the most part, the clan and I saw what happened."

"H-how?"

"We heard you yowl and came over to see what had happened. Cricketsong was the first to notice the blood covering Snowfrost. And I knew you would never attack a cat without purpose."

Swiftcloud gave a small nod, turning her sights forward. The tremble had not left her body but relief came with Whitestar's words.

"I'm sorry that I did not believe you before. I did not want to mistrust a medicine cat. And I did not want to make an accusation without proper evidence."

"It's ok, Whitestar. I'm just grateful that you finally understand."

"As am I. Though I wish I had, before things had escalated to this point. All the destruction Snowfrost has caused...I wonder what other horrible things she's done over the moons."

The remainder of the clan who'd been left in the camp-the kits, Tabitha and Ashwhisker- were awaiting the patrol as they entered the clearing. They seemed eager to find out what the outcome of the battle had been. But when they caught a glimpse of the three distraught sisters, their expressions turned with worry.

"Have we lost?" Ashwhisker asked, voice flat and defeated. Swiftcloud straightened up to speak.

"No. Grassclan won the war, and we've marked the new border along the Thunder Path."

"But..?" Ashwhisker already knew there had to be more news.

"....We lost Chicorynose."

Ashwhisker's eyes widened, ears lowering. "To whom?"

Just as the question passed his lips, Rabbitstorm entered the camp, dragging Snowfrost along with him. Swiftcloud nodded towards the guilty she-cat, eyes darkening at the sight of her. Ashwhisker let out a growl, the fur along his spine rising.

"I knew we could never trust that fox-heart."

Swiftcloud was surprised by the Den Mother's words. Why did he feel that way? What part of Snowfrost's past had led so many in the clan to dislike her? Swiftcloud was tempted to ask, but held back her tongue. Perhaps she'd find out during the trial. If not, she'd be free to ask afterwards.

Swiftcloud brought herself over to the gathering crowd by Tall Stone. She sat herself near the center of her clan, settling into Shadowfang's side. Shadowfang gave her a loud reassuring purr, licking some of the blood off of the top of her muzzle while they waited for Whitestar to arrive.

Whitestar scaled slowly to the top of Tall Stone, her movements sluggish from fatigue and grief. A heavy weight set itself upon her shoulders. Though the clan gained it's full claim on the Forest Patch, they had lost something greater than territory.

"Today, Grassclan has achieved it's greatest accomplishment in years. After many hard battles, and a long bloody war, our clan has won the right to the Forest Patch up to the Thunder Path! This means a bright future for generations of our clan to come. But today is not all victorious. For this evening we have lost a very important and beloved member of our clan."

As Whitestar spoke these words, Goldensong and Mistyleaf brought Chicorynose out from the medicine den. Her body had been decorated with mint leaves to mask her death scent, her fur neatly groomed and fixed of any visible battle wounds.

"Chicorynose fought bravely in today's battle. And though I'd like to announce she died with the honor of a warrior, I'm saddened and sickened to say she has been taken from us for unjust means. Chicorynose has been slain in cold blood, and I shall see to it that her murderer faces justice. However, my focus cannot remain on that for this moment."

Whitestar stepped forward onto the edge of the Tall Stone, her eyes scanning the crowd as she continued with her speech. "As moon high approaches, it is time that I choose a new deputy. Chicorynose served us well for many seasons; from the moment I earned my nine lives. I have never thought of ruling without her by my side.... But I know that the cat who I shall choose will lead with me just as faithfully, and will make a fine leader of this clan in the future."

Cats among the crowd murmured to each other softly, everyone wondering who Whitestar may choose as her heir.

"I say these words before the body of Chicorynose, so that her spirit may hear and approve my choice..."

The clan drew just a bit closer to the leader, waiting with baited breath as she thought for a heartbeat more about her decision.

"Swiftcloud. Will you accept the position of deputy?"

Me..? Swiftcloud's fur bristled at the sound of her name, her skin lighting ablaze with heat. She had been the one chosen as the clan's next deputy? She was shocked to say the least. Nervous, excited, apprehensive, bewildered. But honored, surely and purely. Swiftcloud was more than happy to serve Grassclan as it's second in command, leading them and protecting them with every breath in her body. But was she really the right choice? Surely there were many cats who were more worthy of the position. Swiftcloud could name several off the top of her head. What made her so special that she could even compare to anyone else?

Swiftcloud stared up at Whitestar with wide eyes, unable to find the words she needed to give a proper answer to the leader's proposal.

As she looked on, the moon reached it's peak in the sky, casting it's light straight upon Tall Stone. The moon made Whitestar's creamy siamese fur glow with divinity, her essence seeming to radiate the energy Starclan had granted her for the ceremony.

For a heartbeat, in the moonlight, Swiftcloud could make out the shimmering transparent shape of a cat standing beside Whitestar on her perch. The spirit wrapped its tail around the front of the leader, hugging her to it's body as it's starry green eyes locked themselves upon Swiftcloud. Swiftcloud would recognize that figure anywhere. Chicorynose! Had she come back as a sign of her approval?

Swiftcloud blinked. No sooner she had taken notice of the fallen warrior, she was gone, leaving Swiftcloud alone with the decision she had made.

"Yes, Whitestar," she finally spoke as the crowd parted to let her step forward. Swiftcloud dipped her head respectfully then raised it once again as she settled in front of clanmates. She could feel the moonlight cast upon form, placing her right into the spotlight. In this moment she felt all of her anxiety leave her body. Starclan's will granted her courage. "I humbly accept this offer. It will be an honor to serve as Grassclan's deputy."

"Swiftcloud!" Shadowfang caterwauled with brightest smile on his face.

"Swiftcloud! Swiftcloud! Swiftcloud!" The clan began to cheer along. Swiftcloud's pelt grew warmer with every chant and cheer Grassclan raised in her honor, the purr in her chest unlike any that had come from her before. But her moment of joy was cut short as Snowfrost's furious caterwauls split through the camp. Rabbitstorm and Beetlepatch looked as though they were struggling to contain her.

Whitestar glared over into the prisoner's direction, her fur standing on end. Saying she looked displeased at the interruption would be an understatement.

"I suppose now we should move onto our next order of business." Whitestar sounded bitter, her voice dripping with venom. Snowfrost was dragged to the front of the crowd, making cats step aside to allow the guilty medicine cat some space.

Dewstone padded over afterwards, settling herself in front of Grassclan's prisoner. Her expression was dark, riddled with the betrayal she must feel in the face of her kin.

"Snowfrost. Tonight, you are on trial for crimes against the Land's Star." Whitestar began. She sounded as if she'd gone through this process before, the words passing her lips with a trained ease. "Dewstone, address the charges of which she is being held accountable for."

Dewstone lifted her muzzle. "The cat you see before you has committed a crime that is not only against both the Warrior Code and Medicine Cat's Code, but against what should be one's moral code. She has acted upon selfish whims, and has murdered a cat in cold blood. And not just any cat; but Grassclan's deputy."

"Do you have any explanations for what you have done?" Whitestar asked Snowfrost. "Do you have a justified reason for killing Chicorynose?"

"No, Whitestar," Snowfrost muttered coldly through gritted teeth. "I do not."

Whitestar nodded to Dewstone. Her tail lashed, as if she were trying to get out some of her anguish with this movement alone. "Please, continue."

Dewstone nodded back before returning her attention to the crowd. "Furthermore, evidence has been brought forward that perhaps, this may not have been Snowfrost's first offense. Thanks to one of our brave warriors, and confirmation from our medicine cat, Goldensong; we now have suspicion that Snowfrost may have poisoned several of our recently deceased. Waspwing, Butterflytail, Ambereye, and Dovekit. As well as the attempted murder of our new deputy, Swiftcloud, just a quarter moon ago."

Swiftcloud's eyes grew wide with shock. So Whitestar had taken her accusations seriously? Swiftcloud wasn't previously aware that the leader had discussed her theory with Dewstone. She honestly hadn't thought Whitestar believed her at all, by the way she had been acting. Or perhaps she made it look that way. Maybe Whitestar was suspicious too, and that's why she'd shared the information with the Code Keeper. Regardless, Swiftcloud was glad to see that Snowfrost would be rightfully punished if it came to light that she really had been poisoning cats.

"Snowfrost, do you have anything to say in defense of yourself? If these accusations of are false, then this is the time to speak up," Whitestar prompted. She looked down at the medicine cat, the smallest twinkle of hope gleaming in her blue eyes. Perhaps Grassclan's leader still held the slightest bit of faith in Snowfrost. Whether it was foolish to or not. Swiftcloud couldn't blame Whitestar for that. Medicine cats were the highest authority in a clan, with their special connection to their ancestors. A leader was meant to hold a strong bond with their healers for that very reason.

"Unfortunately, I've no way to prove my innocence. Nor do I want to. I have no shame in what I have done," Snowfrost responded, voice eerily calm.

Gasps flitted around the clearing. Angry clanmates whispered among themselves while some tucked their bodies into kin for support. The clan was collectively in shock. How could Snowfrost remain so poised, despite basically confessing to a multitude of murders?

Whitestar shut her eyes, turning her head away in shame. If one looked hard enough, they may be able to catch the slightest glints of tears at the corners of the leader's eyes. Whitestar took a deep breath to regain her composure. She placed her focus back onto Dewstone before speaking once again.

"All the evidence has been laid upon us. Now it is time to cast judgement. Dewstone, what is your conclusion?"

Dewstone stood tall, posture straight and head raised as she announced her verdict. "On the multiple charges of murder, this Code Keeper finds the accused to be guilty. Snowfrost's crime is an unacceptable offense. She deserves the harshest of punishments, such as name stripping, exile, or even execution." Dewstone looked up at Whitestar. "She has broken our Codes before, it would be what is best for the clan."

"Very well." Whitestar stepped onto the edge of the Tall Stone. "This cat has disgraced our clan by breaking the Codes of the Land's Star, using the name of a medicine cat to get away with these crime. Starclan has spoken their disapproval and have granted me the power to take this rank away, just as easily as it had been given to you before. Snowfrost, you are no longer to be known by this name, but simply as Snow. You have forsaken us, and no longer deserve to be a medicine cat of Grassclan. I say these words before the spirits of our ancestors, so that they may hear and approve of my decision." Whitestar yowled, "I hereby sentence the cat you see before us into exile!"

#warrior cats #wcs #warrior cats ocs #wcs ocs #Signs of the Moon: Moon Rise #Signs of the Moon #Moon Rise #Chapter 52

[squirrelcrow-po3]

Into the Wild Rewrite: Chapter 1

← Prologue | Chapter 2 →

Dead leaves crunched under Rusty’s small paws as he stalked through the trees. The sound contrasted with the relative silence of the rest of the forest. A flash of gray fur had caught his eye, and he began to pursue the prey somewhat clumsily. His heart thumped in his chest as he came upon the small mouse just a few tail-lengths away from him. It sat up on its hind legs, sensing him once he was near. The young cat fell into an awkward crouch, hoping that it hadn’t seen him.

Once the rodent got back down and began smelling at the ground, Rusty launched himself forward with his short hind legs. He batted the mouse towards a tree before jumping back onto it, clenching it between his paws. He knocked the creature back and forth as if it were a toy, dazing it enough that it wouldn’t run away each time he hit it away.

A clattering noise made his ears stand on-end. Like something hard on metal, which confused him. Once he was distracted, the prey managed to slip from his claws and scampered off. Rusty grumbled with annoyance as he watched the gray form disappear into the forest. He stood there for a moment, allowing the cool breeze bristle through his fluffy fur, especially around his neck where his collar was typically clasped. The freedom felt amazing, despite losing the mouse.

However, the disappointment of letting his potential prey escape rang in his mind. But in a moment, the darkness of the woods lit up with white light. It hurt to look at, causing Rusty to squint at the sight. A glowing feline stepped from the shadows and placed the escaped piece of prey at his paws. Rusty looked from the mouse back to the starry cat with his mouth agape. He felt something ripple through his fur as the other cat glanced down at him with a calm smile.

He heard a voice say words he couldn’t understand, making him turn away from the figure before him. It was echoed and muffled. Maybe it was his name but he wasn’t sure. The cat in front of him made everything feel so surreal, even if it just smiled at him and did nothing else. Then, he felt a force press on his back, making his eyes go wide. It wasn’t hard enough to cause pain, but startled him. 

He blinked frantically at his paws, realizing that he was now laying down and upon lifting his head, he realized he was back in his den. The stark, still air of the room contrasted to the crisp wind he felt in his dream. He glanced up at his Twoleg patting his back before they stood up and walked from the room. He presumed they would go to bed soon, since they always fed him beforehand. Rusty stretched out with a yawn and padded over to his bowl, taking in a mouthful of pellets his owner had put in. He wished it was the taste of mouse on his tongue, but he was somewhat satisfied with the food he was given. They had a bland taste, but it filled his aching belly.

Instead of going back to his cozy nest, Rusty ducked out of the flap leading out of his den. He stepped out into the garden with a deep breath. Fresh dew clung to the well-trimmed blades of grass as they shifted when he walked. His owners took such good care of their garden, it confused him. The sickeningly sweet smell of the flowers his Twolegs grew made Rusty’s lips curl, but he made his way past them to leap up onto the fence posts. He enjoyed sitting there on nights like these. It gave him an excellent view of his neighbors gardens and, more importantly, the dense greenery of the forest just outside his yard. The one he had dreams about multiple times since the last full moon.

He heard his name called from the entrance of the den - he knew his owners wanted him to return inside, they didn’t like for him to stay out too late. But tonight, something was telling him not to come back. It was hard to ignore the thoughts of warmth and gentle pets he was greeted with when he would curl up in his Twolegs’ nest. But the forest seemed to be pulling him away from all that. Once he looked back from the yard to the forest, he noticed something walking through the trees. A gentle glow cutting through the shadows of the canopy of trees. It was a figure similar to those from his dreams: a shiny, starry cat prancing through the greenery. His posture straightened in surprise.

“Hey, wait!” Rusty called, jumping down from the fence. The bell around his neck jingled and that, in combination to his yelling, alerting the figure to his presence. They darted back into the forest, slowly disintegrating into shimmering dust as they went. Rusty’s expression softened with disappointment. He hated the feeling of not knowing if what he was seeing was real. Perhaps he was just seeing things. Maybe it would be best just to return to his nest.

More jingling was heard from behind him as a cat jumped up on the fence. “Hey, Rusty,” the cat said. The ginger tom turned around with a flick of his ear. “Oh. Hey, Smudge,” he replied. “You’re out late tonight.” The black and white tom smirked. “Well, I was gonna go to bed but…” he began, reaching his hind leg to itch underneath his collar. “I saw you by the woods and got worried about you! You’re not goin’ in there, are you?” Rusty shifted a bit, glancing uncomfortably towards the forest. “Uhm. I was just thinking I’d take a little look,” he replied nervously. 

“But!” Smudge said. “It’s dangerous there!” Rusty raised a brow quizzically. “Oh yeah, have you ever been in there?” Smudge gave a tiny shrug. “Hmm… no… But Henry went in there!” The ginger tom couldn’t help but let out a chuckle. “Really? Henry went in there? He’s so lazy, he barely leaves his den anymore.”

“He told me he caught a robin in there, though!” the black and white tom responded, giving Rusty a worried look. “There’s wildcats who kill and eat each other! And their claws are so sharp they can cut through trees!” The ginger cat frowned. “Well, I’ll only be in there for a bit. I’m sure those ‘wildcats’ won’t even notice me.” Rusty barely gave any attention to Smudge’s final “don’t say I didn’t warn you!” when he turned to walk off into the forest. The other house cat hopped back into his garden without another word. Trying to dissuade Rusty from going was impossible at this point. 

The ginger cat immediately noticed that the grass just beyond the fence was thicker and more bristled than that of the garden - like that of a startled cat. It felt strange underneath his paws, poking at his pads. He gave a few rasps across his fluffy chest fur to calm his nerves. What if what Smudge said was true? It couldn’t be. It was far too ridiculous. But the ‘what if’ was bugging him out of his mind as he vanished into the thick trees.

A sense of recollection came flooding back when a mouse scampered a small distance away, scuttling around some nearby brambles. It was just like his dreams! He tried to remember back to what he did wrong last time, but the round of his collar ringing every time he walked hindered him from doing so. He crouched, narrowing his eyes in anticipation as a spark shot through his body. Rusty’s haunches shifted back and forth as he prepared to jump forward, and he was grateful that his bell only rang dully as he moved from side to side. 

However, the sudden sound of cracking twigs made both him and the rodent jump. And if that didn’t scare the creature away, his bell’s sudden ring certainly did. Rusty watched sadly as the prey ran off as it had in his dreams. But this time, no mystical figure reclaimed the prize for him. As he stood frozen still, he noticed a bushy tail waving through a patch of ferns. He strained his nose to scent what it possibly could be. The abundance of new smells overwhelmed him, but he could tell it wasn’t a dog or any cat he had ever smelled. The scent of prey clung to the strange creature. Rusty became too curious and began to pad towards it. But then, the tail disappeared into the shrubbery, and the rustling began to sound all around the house cat. He whipped his head around in confusion, trying to find where the noise was coming from. However, it sounded as though it was all around him at once. The fur on his spine stood up as the sound of pawsteps crept up behind him. Before he could realize it, the sound became louder and louder, until it was just a few tail-lengths behind him.

His pursuer crashed into him at full force, slamming him into the trunk of a nearby oak. Rusty yowled once the creature jumped onto his back. Every time he writhed to shake it off of him, its needle claws and teeth clump to his pelt even tighter. The house cat was thrown onto his side by the weight on top of him and, trying to think fast, he rolled onto his back. The creature didn’t catch onto his ploy and, remembering how he would fight with his siblings as a kit, he pushed on its belly with his back paws as hard as he could. It wasn’t enough to knock his attacker off of him, but he heard the creature wheeze as the breath was kicked out of it. 

Under the weight of the creature, he wriggled from its weakened grasp. Once he scrambled up to his paws, Rusty rushed back towards the familiar glow of his Twolegs’ den in the distance. The sound of dead leaves crunching let him know he was still being chased. The pain stung under his pelt as he ran, slowing him down before he could get a good distance between him and the creature. As the situation sunk in, Rusty realized it would be more likely that he would be tackled again before he made it back over the fence. So instead of continuing to run, he spun around to face the animal that was attacking him.

His eyes widened when he realized he was fighting another kitten not much older or younger than himself; a shaggy gray tom, with strong limbs under his thick fur despite his young age. Rusty’s sudden stop took the other tom off guard, suddenly toppling him over before he could skid to a stop. The house cat let out a string of hisses and growls as he struggled once again underneath the mess of the other kitten’s fur. But to his surprise, his attacker didn’t continue to claw at him. And once Rusty stopped writhing about, he noticed the other cat was calmly washing his forepaw as he pinned him underneath his weight. “Uh… excuse me?” the orange cat started to say, still tense. “Could you maybe get off of me?” The strange cat rolled his eyes as if Rusty’s request was a bother. “Okay I guess,” he replied as he stepped off of the other cat. “But if you think about attacking me again, I’ll send you home to your Twoleg den with your pelt inside out.”

Rusty couldn’t help but think about what Smudge had told him. Was this one of the wildcats who could cut through trees with their claws? He doubted it. “Who are you anyways?” he asked the gray cat. 

He laughed under his breath. “I should be asking you the same thing. You are an intruder on ThunderClan territory,” the other tom said, continuing to rasp at the grass clinging to his wild fur. He paused. “But to answer your question, I’m Graypaw. You fight pretty good for a tame kitty.” Thunder-whatnow? Rusty didn’t know that the forest apparently belonged to someone.

“That’s a strange name,” Rusty said bluntly, the bitterness in his voice still present. Graypaw’s pelt bristled in annoyance. “Oh yeah? And what’s your name? Fluffy or something? Twolegs give you all weird names, Clan names have honor!” he huffed.

“It’s not Fluffy, it’s Rusty,” he growled back.

Graypaw puffed out his chest fur with a smug smirk. “See, what a weird name.” He gave a dismissive shake of his head. “Anyways, now that I know you’re not from the other Clans, you can run along to your Twoleg den. You’re lucky I’m not a ShadowClan cat, you’d have more than just a couple of scratches.”

Rusty raised a brow. “Other Clans?” he echoed. “There’s more of you?”

Graypaw gave an impatient hiss. “You’ve seriously never heard of the four Clans that live in this forest? For StarClan’s sake, you really are a sheltered Denpet aren’t you?” The orange tom opened his mouth to respond, but the other cat cut him off. “There’s ShadowClan, WindClan, RiverClan, and most importantly, ThunderClan - that’s the Clan I’m training to be a warrior in. We have to compete for prey to survive! So it’s our job to keep other Clans off our territory!”

He was dumping so much information on him, Rusty couldn’t help but have a confused expression on his face. “But if your life is so difficult, why don’t you just find a Twoleg to take care of you?” he meowed. “If you sit by the fence and look hungry, they’d take you in-” 

Graypaw let out an incredulous squawk in response. “I’d rather die than become a Denpet! Your food looks like rabbit droppings and smelly sludge, and you can’t go outside unless your precious Twoleg lets you!” he spat. “Being a warrior is being free. You aren’t some Twoleg’s toy like you are.” Once he was done with his speech, he let out a mischievous mew. “I bet you haven’t even tasted a mouse, huh?”

The orange tom stiffened and then sighed. “No, I haven’t,” he sighed. “At least not yet.” The gray cat tutted. “Well I guess you’d never know what it’s like to truly live, Rusty. You haven’t got warrior blood; you weren’t born wild,” he said. “If you weren’t born in that Twoleg den of yours, you’d understand.” The house cat thought back on his dream and indignantly mewed: “Not true!”. Before he could get another word out, Graypaw’s suddenly bristled coat made him pause. The Clan cat lifted his nose to the air and his eyes widened. “You should go. ThunderClan cats are nearby… If they see you, they wouldn’t be happy about you hunting here.”

Rusty glanced around at the surrounding bushes. He didn’t know how Graypaw was aware of any approaching cats; to him, the crisp night air smelled just the same. But the other cat’s urgency made him nervous. When he didn’t move, Graypaw continued. “Run!” he hissed. But Rusty was frozen. He didn’t know which way to go, the wildcats could be all around!

But he was too late. The sound of shifting leaves from behind him made both Rusty and Graypaw whip their heads around. “What’s going on here?” an unfamiliar voice said as a figure shifted out from the greenery. The new-comming cat strolled majestically towards the two cats, her blue pointed fur glowing silver in the moonlight. 

Graypaw immediately snapped to attention in the presence of the new cat. “B-Bluestar, I-” he started, cutting himself off to crouch respectfully in front of the cat, motioning Rusty to do the same. Then, another cat followed the first into the clearing. The large golden tabby glared down at the gray tom with cold eyes.

“Graypaw, what did I say about coming close to the Twolegplace?” the golden cat growled. “Your first night out of camp, and you already are causing trouble.” The gray cat’s ears flattened back against his head “I’m sorry, Lionheart. I just smelled something and I… I didn’t realize how close I was,” Graypaw meowed. The two larger cats’ eyes rested upon Rusty. Their gazes were cold. Threatening. Nothing like Graypaw.

The blue molly spoke first. “And who is this?” she asked. Rusty felt vulnerable under her blue stare. It pierced through him.

“Well I figured out he’s no threat,” the other young cat responded. “Just a Denpet, that’s all.” The orange cat felt anger rise in his pelt. He was sick of being referred to as that. He held his tongue, however. As much as he would like to shoot a retort. The molly’s eyes rested intently on him, noticing his irritation. “I’m Bluestar, young Denpet. And this is Graypaw’s mentor, Lionheart,” she said, motioning to the golden tabby with her slender tail. “She’s the Clan’s leader,” Graypaw hissed to Rusty under his breath.

Bluestar gave a pleased purr to Graypaw’s introduction. “Both of you, sit up,” she mewed. Her voice had softened slightly. “You fight well for a Twoleg pet.” Rusty looked to Graypaw with a confused expression. She eased his bewilderment quickly. “Lionheart and I were watching from the trees. We wanted to see how Graypaw would deal with an intruder without our intervention.” She gave the apprentice the smallest of smiles. “You attacked him bravely.” The gray cat beamed at the praise.

Her attention shifted back to the house cat. “I expected you to flee when you had the chance. I was shocked when you turned to fight, even when you knew he was stronger than you,” she began. The molly paused briefly. “You are an odd Denpet.” Rusty wasn’t sure whether he was supposed to be grateful for her backhanded approval. But he still gave a small nod of thanks. “I was waiting to see when you’d venture into the forest… I’ve often seen you sitting on the leafless trees by your Twolegs’ den,” Bluestar glanced down at Rusty with a thoughtful look. “Your youthful energy is on your side. Perhaps you might have caught that mouse if you didn’t hesitate.”

Rusty’s ears perked up. “R-really?” he asked nervously. She responded with a nod. Before she could get any words out, Lionheart jutted in. “Bluestar, please. This is a Denpet for StarClan’s sake. You can’t encourage him hunting in our territory.” His meow had respect but also intent. “You should just send him back to his den where he belongs.” The house cat’s pride fizzled out. “Please don’t send me back,” he pleaded. “I promise I’ll leave once I catch a mouse or two.”

Bluestar’s calm expression quickly turned to a furious one. “A mouse or two could mean life or death for our Clan!” she snapped, looming over the smaller cat. “Just because you get to eat your pellets whenever you want doesn’t mean there’s enough food to go around out here!” Rusty glanced over at Graypaw and saw the horror on his face. He quickly realized he had spoken out of line, but that didn’t mean the molly had to get so angry. 

Fear set in once Lionheart stepped to his leader’s side, joining her in towering over the house cat. Perhaps being so comfortable with these wildcats was a bad idea… Perhaps… They were intent on finishing what Graypaw had started...

The blue molly’s face was barely a mouse-length from Rusty’s, and he felt his fur prickle with anxiety. “I’m sorry…” His voice trembled as he spoke. “I didn’t mean to threaten your Clan.” Bluestar’s anger was unrelenting. “You already have enough food! Why do you need to come into our territory and hunt?” Regret mixed with his fear as her words sunk it. She was right. He was hunting purely for sport. These cats needed all the food they could get. “I… I won’t hunt here again, I promise.”

Her bristled fur fell, and she gave a flick of her tail. Lionheart stepped back and stood next to his apprentice, who sighed with relief when the two older cats backed down. Bluestar and Lionheart’s eyes met, as if they were communicating something without words. Rusty felt curiosity bubbling within him. But he didn’t want to overstep and ask, risking Bluestar’s wrath again. “Is it really so hard to live out here?”

“Of course. We only have control over a portion of the forest,” the molly responded. “The Clans are always fighting for the small amount of resources we have. The forest is only so big.”

Rusty’s eyes widened. “Are there lots of cats in your Clan?” “There’s enough. ThunderClan is the smallest, though,” she said. “We have enough prey to go around, but none to spare at the end of the day.” The orange cat glanced at the three cats in front of him. “So are all of your Clan warriors like you?”

Lionheart interjected again. “Most are warriors. But others are too old, others are too young. And others choose not to hunt or fight, but help the Clan in other ways.” Rusty felt guilty asking so many questions, but so many thoughts raced through his mind upon encountering these strange cats. “So you all share your prey together?” He was beginning to realize how selfish his life was.

For a long moment, Bluestar and Lionheart’s eyes met once more. Then, after a few heartbeats, she turned back to Rusty with a calm smile. “Well, Rusty, you seem very interested in our way of life,” she meowed. “Perhaps you would be interested in coming to our camp. Would you like to join ThunderClan?”

He couldn’t speak. He was taken off guard by the molly’s proposition. She continued to speak: “If you choose to join us, you will be like Graypaw. You’ll train to become a warrior.”

“But!” Graypaw piped up. “A Denpet can’t be a warrior! He doesn’t have Clan blood!”

“Hush!” Bluestar hissed, flicking her tail at the apprentice.

“Graypaw, Willowpelt does not have Clan blood either, and she is a respectable warrior,” Lionheart spoke gently to his apprentice. The gray cat huffed in annoyance. “Yeah, well that’s different!” The golden tabby ignored his apprentice’s protests and addressed Rusty once more. “We can only offer you training, Denpet. If it is too difficult, we cannot keep you in our Clan.” 

Rusty’s brows knitted together with concern. “But… Why ask me then? Why offer me the chance if you think I’ll fail?” he asked. Bluestar was the one to answer. “The truth is, young one, ThunderClan needs more warriors. Our Clan is doomed to be taken over if we cannot fight back,” she said quietly.

“Understand, Denpet, if you choose to join us, you must live like us. If not, you must return to your Twolegs and never return to the forest,” Lionheart told Rusty. “You cannot live with a paw in each world.” Bluestar gave a small nod of agreement. “Our Clan cannot guarantee you food or warmth like your Twolegs can. You will need to work hard to survive; be willing to risk your life for the good of your Clan,” she said. “But you will be a real cat, Denpet. You will know what it is like to be a part of something bigger… You’ll be free.”

Her offer was surreal. Rusty had dreamed about living such a life so many nights. The breeze ruffled his fluffy fear. He shuddered, not only from the cool wind, but because of the anticipation of what could lie ahead.

Lionheart suddenly interrupted his thoughts. “Bluestar. The gathering should be starting soon. We must return to camp,” he said with a flick of his tail. Bluestar glanced at the other warrior. “I wonder if Redtail and Tigerclaw have returned as well…” she muttered, mostly to herself.

Rusty perked up a little. “Wait a minute! Can I think about your offer… Please.”

Bluestar hummed in thought for a moment. “Lionheart will meet you here at Dawn. You can give him your answer then,” she said with a nod. And with that, her tail gave a strange signal, and the three cats disappeared into the underbrush without another word.

He blinked, taking him a few moments to realize they were gone. He stared from the bushes up at the stars, glittering brightly through the canopy of leaves above. Rusty’s ears pricked to the sudden shout of his name, reminding him of where he had to return to. Even if he knew he needed to go back… Something seemed to pull him back, deeper into the forest towards the life he could have.

#warrior cats #warrior cats rewrite #into the wild

[warriorssunandfire]

P r o l o g u e

A half-moon glowed on smooth granite boulders, turning them silver. The silence was broken only by the ripple of water from the swift black river and the whisper of trees in the forest beyond.

There was a stirring in the shadows, and from all around lithe dark shapes crept stealthily over the rocks. Unsheathed claws glinted in the moonlight. Wary eyes flashed like amber. And then, as if on a silent signal, the creatures leaped at each other, and suddenly the rocks were alive with wrestling, screeching cats.

At the center of the frenzy of fur and claws, a massive dark tabby pinned a bracken-colored tom to the ground and drew up his head triumphantly. “Oakheart!” the tabby growled. “How dare you hunt in our territory? The Sunningrocks belong to ThunderClan!”

“After tonight, Tigerclaw, this will be just another RiverClan hunting ground!” the bracken-colored tom spat back.

A warning yowl came from the shore, shrill and anxious. “Look out! More RiverClan warriors are coming!”

Tigerclaw turned to see sleek wet bodies sliding out of the water below the rocks. The drenched RiverClan warriors bounded silently up the shore and hurled themselves into battle without even stopping to shake the water from their fur.

The dark tabby glared down at Oakheart. “You may swim like otters, but you and your warriors do not belong in this forest!” He drew back his lips and showed his teeth as the cat struggled beneath him.

The desperate scream of a ThunderClan she-cat rose above the clamor. A wiry RiverClan tom had pinned the brown warrior flat on her belly. Now he lunged toward her neck with jaws still dripping from his swim across the river.

Tigerclaw heard the cry and let go of Oakheart. With a mighty leap, he knocked the enemy warrior away from the she-cat. “Quick, Mousefur, run!” he ordered, before turning on the RiverClan tom who had threatened her. Mousefur scrambled to her paws, wincing from a deep gash on her shoulder, and raced away.

Behind her, Tigerclaw spat with rage as the RiverClan tom sliced open his nose. Blood blinded him for an instant, but he lunged forward regardless and sank his teeth into the hind leg of his enemy. The RiverClan cat squealed and struggled free.

“Tigerclaw!” The yowl came from a warrior with a tail as red as fox fur. “This is useless! There are too many RiverClan warriors!”

“No, Redtail. ThunderClan will never be beaten!” Tigerclaw yowled back, leaping to Redtail’s side. “This is our territory!” Blood was welling around his broad black muzzle, and he shook his head impatiently, scattering scarlet drops onto the rocks.

“ThunderClan will honor your courage, Tigerclaw, but we cannot afford to lose any more of our warriors,” Redtail urged. “Bluestar would never expect her warriors to fight against these impossible odds. We will have another chance to avenge this defeat.” He met Tigerclaw’s amber-eyed gaze steadily, then reared away and sprang onto a boulder at the edge of the trees.

“Retreat, ThunderClan! Retreat!” he yowled. At once his warriors squirmed and struggled away from their opponents. Spitting and snarling, they backed toward Redtail. For a heartbeat, the RiverClan cats looked confused. Was this battle so easily won? Then Oakheart yowled a jubilant cry. As soon as they heard him, the RiverClan warriors raised their voices and joined their deputy in caterwauling their victory.

Redtail looked down at his warriors. With a flick of his tail, he gave the signal and the ThunderClan cats dived down the far side of the Sunningrocks, then disappeared into the trees.

Tigerclaw followed last. He hesitated at the edge of the forest and glanced back at the bloodstained battlefield. His face was grim, his eyes furious slits. Then he leaped after his Clan into the silent forest.

In a deserted clearing, an old gray she-cat sat alone, staring up at the clear night sky. All around her in the shadows she could hear the breathing and stirrings of sleeping cats.

A small tortoiseshell she-cat emerged from a dark corner, her pawsteps quick and soundless.

The gray cat dipped her head in greeting. “How is Mousefur?” she meowed.

“Her wounds are deep, Bluestar,” answered the tortoiseshell, settling herself on the night-cool grass. “But she is young and strong; she will heal quickly.”

“And the others?”

“They will all recover, too.”

Bluestar sighed. “We are lucky not to have lost any of our warriors this time. You are a gifted medicine cat, Spottedleaf.” She tilted her head again and studied the stars. “I am deeply troubled by tonight’s defeat. ThunderClan has not been beaten in its own territory since I became leader,” she murmured. “These are difficult times for our Clan. The season of newleaf is late, and there have been fewer kits. ThunderClan needs more warriors if it is to survive.”

“But the year is only just beginning,” Spottedleaf pointed out calmly. “There will be more kits when greenleaf comes.”

The gray cat twitched her broad shoulders. “Perhaps. But training our young to become warriors takes time. If ThunderClan is to defend its territory, it must have new warriors as soon as possible.”

“Are you asking StarClan for answers?” meowed Spottedleaf gently, following Bluestar’s gaze and staring up at the swath of stars glittering in the dark sky.

“It is at times like this we need the words of ancient warriors to help us. Has StarClan spoken to you?” Bluestar asked.

“Not for some moons, Bluestar.”

Suddenly a shooting star blazed over the treetops, almost as bright as the sun. Spottedleaf’s tail twitched and the fur along her spine bristled.

Bluestar’s ears pricked but she remained silent as Spottedleaf continued to gaze upward.

After a few moments, Spottedleaf lowered her head and turned to Bluestar. “It was a message from StarClan,” she murmured. A distant look came into her eyes. “The sun will alight from the fire, and together they will blaze and save the forest.”

“Fire?” Bluestar echoed. “But fire is feared by all the Clans! How can it save us?”

Spottedleaf shook her head. “I do not know,” she admitted. “But this is the message StarClan has chosen to share with me.”

The ThunderClan leader fixed her clear blue eyes on the medicine cat. “You have never been wrong before, Spottedleaf,” she meowed. “If StarClan has spoken, then it must be so. Fire and Sun will save our Clan.”

#fanfic #prologue

[debiteful]

Inspired by the request posted earlier!

Content: soft vore, fatal vore, digestion, female borrower prey, cat pred, Bean feeder(? Kinda?), belly rubs, praise, insults, trapping, deceptive

Hazel scurried along the kitchen counter. The bean was somewhere nearby, but they would never see her back here. She shifted the canvas bundle beneath her arm that was stuffed full of delicious crumbs. She couldn't imagine why no other borrowers lived in this place; it was full of treats!

With the hole in sight, she picked up the pace. Unfortunately she caught her foot on something and tumbled forward. To her surprise she didn't hit the counter, instead dangling in the air. A wire was looped around her ankle, pressing painfully into her skin. She wordlessly struggled, reaching for the snare high above her head.

After hours of being trapped, she was exhausted. Every time the Bean came into the room, she got all tense and afraid. They never came near her though. How did this trap even get here? She had had much too long to ponder this and similar questions. She had settled on a mouse trap as the answer. There was a housecat, but they were a shoddy hunter.

Late into the evening, the Bean returned to the kitchen once more. They made a beeline for where the trap lay and gasped in surprise to see a tiny person there. They clicked their tongue and grabbed her in a soft, warm hand with a grip that was just a little too snug. They loosened the wire and freed her foot, inspecting the red marks with a frown, "Well look at that. You okay?"

They turned their catch in their hand, leaving Hazel laying right side up in their palm. Her heart pounded rapidly inside her chest and she was left speechless. 

"Not chatty huh? Well alrighty come with me," they said as they covered her with their other hand. Their fingers were interlaced, affording her a view outward without giving enough space for her to take a flying leap; not that she was that foolish!

They took her to their bedroom and sat on the edge of the mattress. They had a stern look and their tone was solemn, "You be careful now."

Then they leaned over and dropped her gently onto the plush rug.

Bewildered, Hazel got to her feet and started towards the nearest hole. Something was off though. A scent? A strange sound? She couldn't be sure.

Suddenly something blunt and powerful struck her from the side, sending her flying. She landed on the rug again, this time laying on her back. Stunned, she watched as a pale form hurried over. That dumb housecat had actually hit her!

Under its icy blue gaze she scrambled to her feet only to be knocked aside again. The whitefurred animal would not let up, chasing and attacking relentlessly. Hazel could hear the Bean giggle and caught a glimpse of them curled up on the edge of the bed as they watched. 

What sort of monster would do this? The question barely crossed her mind as her body was sent flying and crossed the room. With soft bounds thw cat followed behind, its tail lashing from side to side.

Hazel forced herself to her feet and sprinted towards the cat, hoping to confuse it. The beastly animal took a step back to the borrowers relief; this quickly turned to dismay as it reared up then landed on her with both front paws. The pads were soft and leathery, but sharp claws pricked st her from amongst the fluffy fur. 

It was only a few moments before it released her and backed off a couple of steps. Body low to the ground, its blue eyes were unwaveringly fixed on Hazel. She spun around and made a desparate dash for a hole. It was a long shot but it was all she had.

Pawsteps thumped behind her, but she dare not look back. Unfortunately her determination mattered not as the cat crashed into her and then the wall, knocking the breath from the little person's chest. 

As she gasped for air, she drew in shockingly moist, warm air. Even before the confusion could register, sharp teeth closed around her. She flailed her limbs desperately, hands hitting whiskered muzzle and feet kicking chin. That rough pink tongue raked across her back, dragging her deeper into the maw of this feline.

She panted for breath as she was licked and scratched. Every lap maneuvered her a little closer to that dark doomed tunnel that led to the belly of the beast.

With the last of her strength, she fought to crawl away from that throat, but it was in vain. Muscular tongue hauled her back and smooth throat muscles rippled in crushing waves to drag her downward. Each swallow squished slimey flesh against every inch of her, leaving her panting after each little smothering.

By the time she reached the stomach, she was exhausted. Her body slid limply into the wrinkled pouch full of fluid. As the walls twitched and flexed around her, the acid seeped into her clothes. She felt numb; her vision was blacking out slowly, but it was too dark to tell.

Once it's prey was down, the cat hopped up onto the bed beside its bean and flopped across their lap. They chuckled and scratched under the pets chin, then ran a finger down their throat and chest before gently rubbing its tummy. Rumbling purrs was the only sound for a long while. Eventually soft murmured praised joined them, as they heard gurgles and bubbling from within their pets gut, "Good kitty. You're such a feirce hunter, taking care of that vermin."

The words didn't mean much one way or another to the cat. All it cared about was the chance to hunt and get a full bly of warm prey.

#soft vore #fatal vore #digestion #female prey #borrower prey #cat pred #animal pred #belly rubs #bad human lol #debiteful writing