The black and white tom-cat watched Jayflower, rushing forward to help them both climb back on to dry land. He checked them both for injuries, a small gash had opened up on the apprentices head, but other than that they were fine. "You have to be more careful, next time I'll go with you." He stated, not accepting no for an answer. They didn't need anyone in their patrol getting injured.
Ocelotstride stuck close Tidebreaker, her blue-green gaze watching the flashes of light break through the darkness of the dreary clouds and pouring rain. She raised a brow slightly toward Heatherpaw, wondering why he'd chosen to dive back into the water in the first place. The Bengal came up with not a single answer as she padded into the fishy camp with the group
Coughs raked through Heatherpaw's little body as Jayflower heaved him up onto the shore. He blearily looked up and panted, "T- thank you..." as he tried to reorient himself to his new surroundings. [EaC Camp]
Jayflower stepped to the bank with wide eyes. She glanced at the others before she shook her coat and leaped to the struggling Heatherpaw. She kept her head above the water choosing her path carefully. Once she got to Heatherpaw she dove under the water and came but up when she was under Heatherpaw's front half. She posisioned herself so the tom was draped acrossed her shoulders. She turned and swam back to the bank of the river careful to not let even Heatherpaw's whiskers touch the flowing water. She dragged tom to shore and layed him down carefully. She gave him a minute to catch his breath before noticing her side leaked red. She relized she must have bumped into a rock when she dove down. It wasn't a major injury, so she didn't bring it up.
Milfoilcloud gave Jayflower a slight dip of her head, acknowledging the other cat's attempt at comforting her.
"Let's get going, then," Heatherpaw replied and started off at a headlong pace toward the camp, glancing back occasionally to make certain that the rest of the patrol was staying with him. It was tough-going, each step seemed to take twice as much energy as it would otherwise as his paws sunk into the thick mud. Soon they were at the crook in the river enveloping what remained of their camp, now an island against the rushing river.
"Hello?!" Heatherpaw shouted, though his voice was carried away by the wind, with no chance of reaching any cats that potentially remained trapped there. "I'll go over alone, all of you stay here. I'll be back soon if no one is there, if I seem to be taking a while, send the strongest swimming pair over."
"Alright," Milfoilcloud gave a resolute nod and Heatherpaw dove into the water. He easily swam the first fox-length before an underwater rock sent the current spiraling, bashing him against it. He coughed, faltering, and was pushed underwater, his mouth filling with water as he struggled to right himself and continue across the water.
"Heatherpaw is right. If we split up we are more likely to get lose." She glanced at Milfoilcloud. "Our best chances to find the lost cats is to stay a group. As silly as that sounds. If a cat is in danger it would best for all of us to have strength in numbers." Jayflower stepped toward Milfoilcloud, knowing the she's sister was one of missing cats. She smiled to reassure Milfoilcloud.
"You guys don't know the territory," Heatherpaw cautioned. "We know which way the river flows and where cats were when the flood hit, so we can work off of that. If we split up, chances are we're just going to lose more cats."
Milfoilcloud nodded, a shiver running down her spine as lightning cracked overhead.
Tidebreaker glanced around at the small patrol, taking note that there were more Moonclanner's than Earthclanner's here. He sighed, blue eyes focusing on Ocelotstride again. "We'd probably have a better time if we split up. Cover the entire territory." He suggested, waiting for Heatherpaw's approval.
Jayflower walked with the group taking a second to glance back at the river then turned back and padded along side her clan-mates and the earthclanner. She scanned the tree lines carefully searching for any sign of life is the storm.
(I'm so sorry I forgot about this)Opalfur nodded a thank you to Jayflower once again after they had made it across, before flicking an ear at Heatherpaw's words, acknowledging what he said."I hope we aren't too late." She murmured.
After the last of the MoonClanners had made it across, Heatherpaw steeled himself and dove into the water, his paws beating heavily against the water as he tried to propel himself forward.
"StarClan!" He swore as he caught a current and was pushed downstream a fox-length before regaining his composure and making it to the other side. He shook out his pelt, dog-like, and called "Okay, we'll need to do that again to get to the camp. Everyone, please stay close together!"
Heatherpaw waited silently as the MoonClan she-cats helped each other across, struck for the first time at how much they simply sounded like his sisters. These weren't the harsh, militaristic cats he'd always been taught to fear at their northern border.
Jayflower nodded and smiled at the she-cat to try to calm her nerves. She stood on the side of Opalfur so the flowing water would push into her first so if she slipped she would be able to quickly steady her. This also made it easier for Opalfur to lean against Jayflower. She walked close to her so she was always touching the other she in some way. Once they where in the middle of the flowing river she looked at Opalfur. "Are you ready?" She mewed loudly.
Opalfur looked towards Jayflower, her eyes still wide, but she felt a little better at the offer."Thank you." She meowed loudly over the rain, her eyes filling with gratitude.
Jayflower glanced at the fearful Opalfur. Her head was low from the weight of the water in her thick coat. She padded to Opalfur and stood next to her. She looked at the she-cat. "It's ok Opalfur, I will swim with you. You can lean on me and use me as a steady point." Jayflower yelled over the rain.
Opalfur had her paws rooted to the floor, her eyes wide with fear. She did not like swimming, and she certainly didn't want to swim in this weather, She didn't want to admit it, but she hated water."I don't think I can... do this..." She muttered, fear lacing each word she spoke. "I... I can't... do this..."
Jayflower stayed toward the back of the patrol her ears perked. She listened to all of the other cats carefully and also scanning the surroundings. Her only hope was that the cats they were searching for were alright and unharmed. Her clan mates meant everything to her, and knowing that a few were in grave danger angered her.
"Alright." Heatherpaw meowed with a sharp dip of his head. He doubted that she was actually as skilled as her sudden confidence was trying to feign, but now wasn't the time to contradict her and start a fight. They needed to hurry, if the lost cats weren't already dead, they were in grave danger. He almost signed in relief as she made it across, hoping that it would ease the other MoonClanners' worries.
'Trust me, I wouldn't rely on you even if the fish started to leap out at us!' Ocelotstride thought with a huff at the sudden confidence in the Earthclan tom, Heatherpaw. "I was just wondering, I won't need your help anyhow." Her words were blunt and simple before the molly's pretty gaze flashed to the river again to watch the black and white tom make his way into the water. For a moment, she almost had forgotten that he was half-clanned, however that quickly changed when Tidebreaker spoke. 'Starclan, when did you get so tall?' Ocelotstride wondered, a thoughtful smile appearing on her muzzle that lasted only a second as the rain streamed down her forehead and she placed her paws firmly onto the river's shoreline, waiting for the others to prepare themselves to do the same.
The black and white tom-cat nodded his approval at Heatherpaw, before taking up the lead of the patrol. He glanced at Ocelotstride again, slightly amused by her misery. He wasn't a huge fan of a water, but when he was younger, Blacknose had taught him and his brother's how to swim. Fadewhisker had joined begrudgingly, but now he had his father to thank because he'd never willingly volunteer for this rescue mission is he didn't know how to swim.
"It's alright, I can help everyone across." He waded into the running water until he was chest deep. "It's shallow enough until we get to the middle. I can give you all a boost in order to send you over."
Ambersky watched silently as the MoonClan cats glanced nervously at the flowing water. It wasn’t that long since the cats left the camp, theirs fur weighed down from the large amount of water kept in there as heavy droplets pouring down on the patrol. The molly looked around for any sign of life but she was met with drooping leaves and muddy puddles instead.
Letting out a soft sigh, her eyes wandered back to the MoonClanners and Heatherpaw. Even though the apprentice was trying his best to mask it, the warrior could clearly see that the tom was afraid, his tail trembling from the pouring rain. Peeking another glance to the rest of the patrol, Ambersky let out another sigh, this time heavier then others. Maybe the she-cat could help her Clanmates for once? She was never a brave cat anyway. But..the more time they spend here, the less time her Clanmates have to survive in that dreadful flood.
A decision was made. She took a step forward and meowed to the group, slight fear and shyness detected from her voice.
“I will go first if you want..and then maybe you can go after me..” The silver she-cat eyeing a molly with striking fawn coloured pelt, silently asking for her name.
"No, maybe when the water level's low enough you could jump over rocks at Snake Gorge, but that must all but underwater now and the water will be so fast there, I don't even know if I could manage. If you go right ahead of me, I can come and get you if you look like you're struggling," Heatherpaw answered, trying to sound as confident as he could manage.
"I can't wait until this is over with!" The brown Bengal hissed over the loud rain. Ocelotstride's ears flattened against the wind and rain that streamed down onto her sleek, spotted pelt, making it spike up toward the tips. She despised it all very dearly, that was clear to see by her scrunched nose of disgust and blue-green glare that was flashed toward Tidebreaker. "Yeah, I hope you're right because I'm not going to go through this again." The molly muttered back to him before her eyes looked to the fast moving water in front of them then to Heatherpaw. "Are you positive that there's no other way to go around like maybe a couple willow trees to climb from or a log to use as a bridge?" The molly asked confidently, and although she wouldn't admit it, concern hinted in her voice.
"All of you go first, I'll take up the rear," Heatherpaw decided, not hearing Tidebreaker's comment to Ocelotstride over the roar of the storm. He hung back, waiting as they crossed.
Tidebreaker padded beside his best friend, teeth playing with his bottom lip as they trudged through the rain. His thick pelt clung to his sides, revealing just how feminine he really looked. He glanced sideways at Ocelotstride, biting his lip just a bit harder in order to hold back from laughing. He knew they were on a serious mission but seeing the Bengal she-cat soaked to the bone with that ridiculous look on her face, Starclan it was priceless. The black and white tom-cat shifted his gaze toward Heatherpaw, doing his best to study the apprentice through the rain. "He might be an apprentice, but he seems to know what he's doing. Stormstar might've forgotten about his warrior ceremony." He directed his words toward Ocelotstride.
Heatherpaw lead the patrol southward as the rain beat relentlessly down on them, a growing sense of unease in his stomach as they neared the river. "We're going to try and get through to the far eastern side of the river!" He shouted over the rain. "It'll be wider there, but not as deep!"
A scrawny, thin Havana brown tom-cat pushed his way through brambles and bushes, his singular green eye glowing in the darkness. He'd traveled far, his dark pelt stained with blood. His fight with Winterjay hadn't gone as expected. The plan was to take his life and leave unscathed. It was only fair, especially after what the former loner had done to Jupiter.
The small cat was filled with hatred and distaste for anyone who called themselves clan-members. Just the thought of joining one caused bile to rise in his throat. Disgusting, pathetic creatures. He gathered the saliva in his mouth and spit, what he had expected to be clear liquid was red. If that Moonclanner hadn't gotten in my way... He grumbled to himself, swaying slightly on his paws.
Jupiter's injuries were nothing to worry about it, they were just a small annoyance to him. A tiny bump in the road. He had bigger problems to fry, such as figuring out how to gain back his followers. After that wretched eclipseclanner had stepped in and basically stole all of the queens, his soldiers had left him, alone in the void.
"Why not persuade young kittypets to join you?" He thought about it for a moment, but then shook his head. "No that wouldn't work. Winterjay was like them and he betrayed me." His needle like claws dug into the ground as he walked, snow freezing the pads of his feet.
"Hmm." Cherrybloom frowned, starting at the ground as she thought. "I know you said their might be prey by the borders, but we could try heading away from the other clans as well. I mean, there are loners out that direction, and they must be eating something, right?"
"There usually isn't much prey this close to the camp, we'd probably be better off heading out a little while, then looking," Notchedfin advised and scented the air, wondering if he could pick up on where earlier patrols had headed out, like he could in his youth. He couldn't pick up anything beyond the vague cat-scent of the camp.
"Alright, let's gather up our prey and bring it back to camp. I'm sure everyone will be thankful that you helped hunt." He twitched his tail. "I know there's a rivalry between EarthClan and EclipseClan at the moment, and not everyone will accept the fact that you're here. Scrap that, even if that wasn't happening, everyone would still mistrust you." He looked away over his left shoulder. "Just watch out, okay?"
Darkpaw nodded, not really a huge believer in Starclan. She'd grown up without it, her mother refusing to really look at her. She wondered if Cherrycloud knew she'd been banish... did she even care that her daughter was gone? "You think we could head back to camp now?" The small apprentice would never admit it, but she god a bad feeling, like someone was talking about her.
"That water is what gives life to this world, a gift from StarClan." Brassblaze's words were tinted with amusement. "You also drink it, so most of the time, you would be the the attacker." He lay dawn, enjoying the ferocious sun, shining down on the large rock. Just the way the rocks emitted heat was calming.
She watched him catch the lizard, tilting her head slightly at the sight of the reptile. She hadn't really seen on up close, having been sheltered in the abandoned two-leg nest. At his order, she turned and scented the air, the faint smell of weasel wafting up her nose. She slid off of her rock, sneaking around the side of the boulder. She spotted the small mammal near the edge of the water. The wind was on her side, blowing her scent far away from the little creature. She crept up behind it, pushing off her hind-legs with her fore-paws outstretched. Darkpaw almost missed it, claws digging into it's behind as it tried to escape. THe young apprentice held on, grounding herself before she made a killing bite to it's neck. Unfortunately she was now soaked again. Saddened by the fact that it would take her forever to dry off, the smoky grey she-cat padded back to Brassblaze with her catch. "The water attacked me." She grumbled slightly, placing the weasel at her feet.
Brassblaze sprinted to the riverbank, lapping up the refreshing water. Once he had his fill, the warrior scented the air, hoping there was still prey nearby. Luckily, he found a hint of the dull scent of lizard. Following his nose, he slowly stalked towards his prey. As the scent got stronger, he found his himself looking around for the lizard. There! And pounce! Thank you StarClan, for this prey. He quickly buried it and returned to Darkpaw, "Your turn."
Brassblaze sprinted to the riverbank, lapping up the refreshing water. Once he had his fill, the warrior scented the air, hoping there was still prey nearby. Luckily, he found a hint of the dull scent of lizard. Following his nose, he slowly stalked towards his prey. As the scent got stronger, he found his himself looking around for the lizard. There! And pounce! Thank you StarClan, for this prey. He quickly buried it and returned to Darkpaw, "Your turn."
Darkpaw was amazed, eyes roaming over the rocks as the sun hit them perfectly. I know why they call it sunwarm rocks now. She chuckled to herself, leaping onto one of the rocks to get a better vantage point. It was so different here. So many more colors than the dull greys and blacks she was used to back in Eclipseclan. The sound of running water drew her yellow-green gaze toward the riverbank, a small smile appearing on her face. "This is awesome!" She half-yelled, flattening her ears in embarrassment. I probably just scared away all the prey.
In this new-leaf weather, there had to be some good plump prey around. Brassblaze led the way, making his way through the territory he knew well until he reached the brightly lit Sunwarm Rocks. "It's okay if you wander away, but stay close to here." He would keep an eye on the small she-cat.
“I do,” Kudzuthroat lied and gave the tom a deep dip of his head as a show of respect. He gave an uncertain look around himself and decided to just head westward. Eventually, he figured, they’d hit SunClan’s territory and he could head north there until Hawk’s Tree, then walk along the edge of the city until things became familiar once more. [Poof to EcC-SC Border?]
Nightwhisper thought for a moment. “No.“ He looked to Kudzuthroat. “Listen. I will come with you to assist only with the herbs. Afterwards, I must go. Understood?” He looked to them. Whatever was in his eyes, it was chilling. There was something odd about this cat. He dipped his head. “Lead the way.”
Wonderkit and Briarkit sat and watched, occasionally batting at one another's tails and mewling un-concernedly. "When are we going to this.. Camp?" Wonderkit butt in, though, not without a shove from Briarkit.
Darkpaw was small in comparison to the earthclan leader, her fluffy grey pelt made her look bigger than she was. She wanted to turn tail and run, but she knew she wouldn't last long by herself. She was small, and had barely started any of her warrior training. She knew nothing about surviving. She didn't respond to him at first, only backing away with her hackles slightly raised and a frown on her terrified face. When Stormstar growled, she snapped out of the shock and finally focused her yellowish-green eyes on the earthclanner.
"No!" she shouted, surprising herself. "I mean n-no." She tried to calm her racing heart, taking in slow measured breaths. Darkpaw was unsure of the tom-cat's thoughts, not knowing if he'd end her pitiful life with her next words. "I was exiled. Dieseltooth ran me out. I'm sorry for trespassing." It was the honest truth, she rarely ever tried to lie. What good would it do her? She preferred honesty any day.
"P-please.." It was getting increasingly hard to speak, her shivering causing her teeth to chatter. The water had froze her pelt to her sides, her rib cage showing underneath. If she didn't get warm soon, hypothermia would set in.
Stormstar jerked his head around at the sound of a creature crashing through the territory. He unsheathed his claws, ready to defend his family at a moment's notice. Instead of a raccoon, or badger, a small apprentice appeared with wide eyes and he stepped aside to avoid a collision. He tilted his head curiously and approached. "Who are you? An EclipseClan spy?" he meowed sternly.Was EclipseClan really that bold, to send cats over already after he had tried to help their dying leader? He bared his teeth and crouched, giving out a warning hiss to the intruder.
She'd been running the moment Dieseltooth barred her teeth. If given the chance, the young she-cat might've challenged the deputy, but two of Eclipsclan's bigger warriors had run her out before she had the chance to speak. They'd chased her to the river separating Earthclan from Sunclan.
The water had felt like ice against her skin, she'd been soaked to the bone after falling in. Her smoky grey pelt had icicles forming along the ends, teeth chattering and body shivering in protest.
Darkpaw crashed through the underbrush, chest heaving with the effort to take in air. She skidded to a stop just before Stormstar and Blossomstar, yellowish-green eyes filled with terror. If Starclan even exists, they're definitely not on my side. She glanced between the two leaders, taking note of how small she was compared to the two giants before her. I don't stand a chance.
She wanted to curl up somewhere warm, she wanted her mother- Cherrycloud. A lump began to form in her throat and tears sprung to her eyes as she stared like a deer in headlights.
----
"I can head back and have Midnightstorm bring a patrol of some warriors and apprentices. We'll be a strong force." He smiled, relief washing over him as Stormstar agreed. The sound of crunching branshes and paws pounding against the forest floor caught his attention. He shifted, turning his golden gaze on the bushes as soon as the young eclipseclanner crashed through them. Blossomstar recognized her to be the apprentice from the gathering, the one who had insulted him. However, this wasn't his place nor was it his territory to confront why she was here. He didn't sense anymore cats coming at the moment, he said his farewell to Stormstar and promptly left. He had no time to deal with the eclipseclan apprentice. He needed to get back to his own clan and make sure everyone was doing their job.
Stormstar sighed in relief. EarthClan now had an ally, and a large one at that. EclipseClan was rather small and he never considered SunClan much of a threat. "Great. We can spend this time preparing our warriors so come new-leaf, the other clans wouldn't dare attack." he assumed out loud. He turned to the leader and dipped his head. "I'll send most of my warriors and some apprentices to the ancient oak grove for training this week." he concluded. Hearing small excited mews he looked back to the kits headed for his daughter, Honeypaw and let out a chuckle.
Blossomstar smiled slightly, glad to hear that Stormstar was on the same page. "I appreciate the support Stormstar. I also thank you for standing up for me at the gathering." He dipped his head. "Moonclan will stand by you as well. I think we should consider a training together. We'll be stronger in numbers, especially if Sunclan and Eclispeclan decide to attack. We have some time, since Fencestar is down for now." He thought back to her fall, the blood she had lost.
Wonderkit was still skeptical when Briarkit spoke up, "Come on Wonder, it might be are best chance and," he purred, "Warm dens!" He bounced a little as he said that. Wonderkit considered it. She hadn't eaten much since the squirrel and she wondered what crowfoot they had. Plus, something about the queen made Wonderkit feel safe. Then, she considered her brother. She didn't want anything to happen to him, they were bare skin and bone, essentially walking skeletons. She decided it was for the best, though she decided to make it sound as if it were he agreeing, and not being made. "OK, sure. As long as you keep your promises." "I call the ride!" Briarkit suddenly squealed,running toward Honeypaw. "NOOO WAY!" Wonderkit responded playfully. It felt good to be... a kit.. for once as she raced after her brother.
Stormstar paused to look back to Marshmumble as he heard loud squeaking from the two kits, and had a questioning look on his face. They sure were feisty, and he wondered where they came from. Hopefully not from another clan; he didn't need to add that onto the already growing list of risks and tensions of the clans. It was a few hours past sunrise now and he could hardly keep his eyes open but the fate of this alliance was being decided now. He listened carefully to the other leader. "I agree, EclipseClan has always been trouble on their own. Now add in SunClan, and they both will get more confident." he nodded his head. Should EarthClan join in on this? It wasn't exactly their problem, but what Blossomstar said was true. They would not survive an attack by both clans in leaf-bare or shortly following the snow melt. Besides, he sympathised with the new leader. He was being blamed for things he had no part in, and it wasn't up to the clans to question his leadership. "I believe MoonClan needs a leader like you. I stand by you, and so does EarthClan." he decided firmly.
Marshmumble walked forward and crouched down, "Not at all, little one," her soft voice held an air of safety, "But its cold out here- and we want to make sure you're safe. We have a camp nearby- with warm dens and food for you to eat. You won't have to do anything you don't want to do, but if you'd come with us, we wouldn't have to worry about you catching your death of cold." The warrior wondered if there was an herb that could bring her milk back.
Honeypaw watched her mother work with a creased brow, but nodded along as she spoke. Her yellow eyes were dainty, providing a wonderful supporting cast for the scene.
"You can ride on my back!" she said enthusiastically.
The kits backed away from the nudge and hissed. Wonderkit stared up indignantly at Stormstar. "Of course I can walk mouse-brain! I'm not incapable!" She acted as if not every single one of her bones were jutting out along her frame, and that her eyes hadn't looked dull and empty. Briarkit merely stared, he wasn't sure what was happening but he could tell those large cats didn't have too bad of intentions. "What do you want from us!?" Wonderkit continued to snarl, "Are you trying to take us? B-because I-I-I w-won't let-let you!" She hissed. Her thin frame began to shake as a chill seeped into her skin and she was shaking furiously, though she held her ground.
It was true that the announcement of Eclipseclan and Sunclan's alliance had made him uneasy, especially due to recent events. He was still getting a handle on being leader, most of his clan-mates were unsure of his abilities. Blossomstar was becoming increasingly frustrated with the number of cats who disobeyed him. It doesn't matter if Dieseltooth attacked first, Cedarpaw had on multiple occasions disregarded Blossomsgars wishes. He was snapped from his thoughts when Stormstar questioned him. "I believe it would be in both of our clans interest to form an alliance. Moonclan has made many enemies and it's just a matter of time before eclipseclan and Sunclan attacks us. Earthclan is at risk. Two clans together start to become over confident and power hungry." He stated, gaze shifting to Marshmumble, Honeypaw and the kits. "I also do not wish to drag Earthclan into our mess. It's entirely your choice if you choose to accept."
Nearly forgetting that the MoonClan leader had accompanied his patrol back home, Stormstar signaled to Honeypaw and Marshmumble to help the kits as he padded over to the tom. "There's only one reason you would travel so far from home with us." he noted before continuing. "With SunClan and EclipseClan against us, is it safe to assume you'd like an alliance with EarthClan?" he questioned. He didn't know much about the new leader but what he had heard and what he saw at the Gathering, the tom was a level-headed leader much like himself. There was no reason for them not to be allies and it would mean a better defense against the growing hostilities of the other two clans. However, with Fencestar losing a life, he was sure EclipseClan wouldn't attempt an attack until at least new-leaf.
The large Maine coon was weary from all of the travel. And now, he was adding almost a days travel back to his own camp by accompanying the Earthclan patrol back to their home. Part of him wondered if this alliance was really worth no sleep. He shook the thought away. Blossomstar wanted to do everything he could to ensure his clans safety and future. He paused, watch as Stormstar and his mate interacted with the kittens. Who would leave kits out here? He crouched low to the ground, realizing his large size might frighten the little ones
The leader dodged to avoid the little kits strike. She had spirit, that was a given. He smiled to his mate while looking down at the kits. "Well we certainly can't leave them out here in the cold." the tom reached down to nudge one of the kits. "Can you walk?"
Marshmumble and Honeypaw trudged in Stormstar's footsteps and when the kits came into view, Marshmumble hid behind Stormstar, unsure of what the commotion was. However, when she saw the little kit hiss at Stormstar's bulk, she chuckled, and moved to whisper in his ear. "You're scaring them- get low, speak softly. Do you want to take them back to camp?" she asked, her warm green eyes smiling at the kits. Honeypaw gazed curiously from behind her parents.
Wonder kit looked up, startled, and lashed out. Her attack was clumsy and pointless however, she was weak and shaking and all her attack did was cause her to stumble and fall into the cold snow. Briarkit woke to the commotion and panicked at what he saw before him, he moved back and pressed himself against the tree, shaking and hissing, though all it sounded like was the crush of leaves. Wonder kit sat herself up and looked up, terrified at the many cats that stood before her. She pressed against Briarkit and finally responded, "Y-yes and... no?" she mumbled, her voice shot and crumpled compared to the leader's strong mew.
Stormstar led the group of cats home from the Gathering. It was an eventful night, and many were tired and hungry including himself. His big black form led the way through the forest following the strong, musty scent of EarthClan. His large yellow eyes began to close as he padded along, and he shook his head to wake himself. Just then, a small, barely noticeable scent crossed his black nose. He paused, sticking his tail out to signal the group to stop. The large tom lifted his nose to the air to confirm his suspicions. Kits. What were kits doing out here in the middle of leaf-bare?! "Marshmumble!" he called to his mate to come forward. EarthClan had no queens at the moment but he knew she would be able to care for them until they figured out what was going on. He followed their scents and nearly stumbled across the two small bundles hiding out in the snow. He reached a large black paw down and prodded them. "Hello," he said softly as not to startle them. "Are you lost?"
Wonderkit sat staring blankly forward. Briarkit slumbered beside her though she couldn't sleep. She felt nervous as she looked anxiously around the forest. She was ready to lash out with the last of her energy to protect Briarkit. Her ears were strained for any sound of danger and nose sniffed for food that would be left behind by a fox or berries that she'd missed.
Wonderkit trudged weakly through this thick forest. Strong smell of cat littered the place, though she didn't much care. She was lightly pushing Briarkit forward, giving him small encouragement.
"I'm hungrryyyyy.." he whined as he slowly placed one foot in front of another.
"I am too Briarkit, just wait. We need shelter before we do anything." She said calmly. Every one of her ribs etched her what would be beautiful pelt, which was dull and unhealthy. Briar kit's eyes were dull and he struggled for breath when they had to climb a tree trunk.
They eventually settled into a hole beneath a tree that was well hidden from any wind and oncoming foxes whom weren't very observant. Wonderkit, left to gather anything to make a small nest as well as a few berries and what was left of a squirrel. Together, Briarkit and Wonderkit ate what they had and soon settled in to sleep. Though, before either could get comfy, Briarkit asked a question that no one wants to be asked,
"Wonderkit? Are we... Are we going to die?"
"Of course not! I won't let it happen!" Wonderkit said firmly enough to convince Briarkit though deep down, she thought that maybe... they would die. Though she settled in to sleep, it didn't come.
"Alright, stay safe," Broken Eggshell said by way of farewell and ducked back into the undergrowth, brushing off a clump of snow from a nearby fern as they disappeared into the bracken.
Broken Eggshell, also alone, stalked through the undergrownth. They looked up as they heard a twig breaking downwind of them and started toward it, nearly atop Squirrelclaw before they realized that she was, in fact, another cat and not a bit of prey.
"Oh, hi!" They greeted. "Sorry for sneaking up on you, I thought you were a weasel or something!"
RabbitPaw followed Notchedfin through the forest watching him attempt to hunt a sparrow but stalling behind thinking about the clan,wondering if one mouse even helped. [EaC Camp]
"Let's head out, then," Notchedfin answered and started back toward the camp and a brisk pace. He stopped once to try after a sparrow, but it slipped through his paws and escaped before he could go for another bite. Shaking his head in annoyance, he continued their way ahead. [EaC Camp]
"Ok" she said picking up the mouse and started walking back the way they came. "I want to know who is going to the gathering." she said picking up her pace.
"Back to camp, I imagine," Notchedfin shrugged. "I know we haven't been out for too long, but I expect that if we lollygag too much longer, we'll miss the gathering patrol."
"Oh thats no good." she shook her head the cold air seeping its way under her fur,sending shivers through her. "So where are we heading now?" she asked excited to show others her catch.
"It's an ermine," Notchedfin answered. "They're like weasels, you might have seen one in the freshkill pile. When you find one, you should kill it, even though they make poor prey and are dangerous. They also eat mice, if you give them the chance, so the more we let live in the territory the more trouble we'll have feeding ourselves as the season goes on."
Rabbitpaw noticed a scent come across her she dropped the mouse to smell it better. "I smell a faint scent, but I cant tell what it is." she said wondering if he knew. She flicked her tail curiously.
Notchedfin paused and opened his mouth to scent the air better. Ermine? He wondered, surprised to be smelling something like that so late into leaf-bare. It's stale. He glanced back toward Rabbitpaw, wondering if she had any reference for what the smell was.
Rabbitpaw quickly picked up the mouse and followed him trying to sort through the scent of the newly killed mouse and other prey that might be close. Her fur was think so the snow didn't bother her much other then the occasional shiver. Keeping a keen eye out for any movement, due to her lack of scent.
"Well, I suppose the only way to see if that's true is to keep going and see what happens, though I suspect that was more than beginner's luck. I'm honestly surprised you even caught the scent," Notchedfin answered. He started off into the undergrowth, rotting leaves crunching beneath his feet as a light snow began to fall.
"Good catch!" Notchedfin praised, smiling brightly at her. "That was nearly perfect, it seems like you'll be teaching me before long. In particular, it's good that you were so quick about it- it's best to kill them before they can squeak, or they'll alert half the forest that you're there."
Rabbitpaw flicked her tail and began to follow the scent of the animal. She followed the scent over a fallen tree then stopped suddenly hearing movement in the underbrush. She crouched down and slowly padded forward until the tail of a mouse was in her sight, leaping instantly just barely catching the mouse, she hooked it with her claws and killed it with a quick bite. She turned her head to Notchedfin with the mouse in her jaw and muffled "look".
"Good catch," Broken Eggshell commented, giving Blacknose a smile in response. He started off further into the territory at an easy pace, shivering as snow flurries began to fleck his pelt, standing out starkly against the dark splotches.
The large black and white tom-cat had slipped away from the group for a few moments, having caught wind of a mouse. Lucky enough for him, he'd not only managed to catch the tiny morsel, but a squirrel as well. Blacknose carried his catch, coming to stand beside Broken Eggshell.
Broken Eggshell raked the dirt back over his vole and joined back with the body of the patrol, silently waiting for a few of the cats that had wandered off into the underbrush to come back, so they could proceed further into the forest.
Smudgedstone kept as quiet as he could, although the fallen, dead leaves crunched against his fluffy paws. He wasn't the most coordinated of toms, but certainly tried his best. The Himalayan studied his clanmates as he reached their destination. The large cat's whiskers twitched to allow them to fully split away and search for creatures. He turned to the creek and scented the air cautiously.
Broken Eggshell darted off into the undergrowth a moment, the drying bracken rustling as they passed before going quiet. The length of a long sigh passed before a little squeak of dying prey rang out and Broken Eggshell emerged, giving a little nod to their patrol as they started to rake their claws through the hardened ground to bury it until they returned on their way back to the camp.
Blacknose followed after the patrol, taking up the rear. He'd much rather walk by himself, silently observing and listening to the small talk his clan members made. The change in the weather was starting to become more prominent, the wind sending chills down his spine. He preferred warmer weather, preferred having a full belly. He knew once Leaf-bare hit, the prey would cease to exist and it would get a lot harder to feed all of the hungry mouths back in camp.
"Sounds good," Broken Eggshell replied, humming softly to themselves for a moment as they wandered out into the undergrowth and fell quiet, opening his mouth to scent the surroundings. As leaf-bare neared, the ground seemed hard and frozen beneath his paws while he couldn't smell anything in the air beyond the crisp smell of drying leaves and dormancy.
Smudgedstone didn't mind the peace as he led out the patrol onto the marshy terrain. His deep green eyes held the same glow as Wrinkleface's had once done when he turned his head to speak to the little group of cats. "We'll head towards Mossy Hollow and see what we can find along the creek, is everyone alright with that?" The fluffy tom asked, his bushy tail thumping against the ground as he walked over a fallen tree branch.
Broken Eggshell followed Smudgedstone out of the camp, oddly cheerful despite the general anxious hum of the camp as they adjusted to Stormstar's leadership and the sudden death of Glass-star at the paws of a SunClan patrol.
The black and white tom-cat watched Jayflower, rushing forward to help them both climb back on to dry land. He checked them both for injuries, a small gash had opened up on the apprentices head, but other than that they were fine. "You have to be more careful, next time I'll go with you." He stated, not accepting no for an answer. They didn't need anyone in their patrol getting injured.
Ocelotstride stuck close Tidebreaker, her blue-green gaze watching the flashes of light break through the darkness of the dreary clouds and pouring rain. She raised a brow slightly toward Heatherpaw, wondering why he'd chosen to dive back into the water in the first place. The Bengal came up with not a single answer as she padded into the fishy camp with the group
Coughs raked through Heatherpaw's little body as Jayflower heaved him up onto the shore. He blearily looked up and panted, "T- thank you..." as he tried to reorient himself to his new surroundings. [EaC Camp]
Jayflower stepped to the bank with wide eyes. She glanced at the others before she shook her coat and leaped to the struggling Heatherpaw. She kept her head above the water choosing her path carefully. Once she got to Heatherpaw she dove under the water and came but up when she was under Heatherpaw's front half. She posisioned herself so the tom was draped acrossed her shoulders. She turned and swam back to the bank of the river careful to not let even Heatherpaw's whiskers touch the flowing water. She dragged tom to shore and layed him down carefully. She gave him a minute to catch his breath before noticing her side leaked red. She relized she must have bumped into a rock when she dove down. It wasn't a major injury, so she didn't bring it up.
Milfoilcloud gave Jayflower a slight dip of her head, acknowledging the other cat's attempt at comforting her.
"Let's get going, then," Heatherpaw replied and started off at a headlong pace toward the camp, glancing back occasionally to make certain that the rest of the patrol was staying with him. It was tough-going, each step seemed to take twice as much energy as it would otherwise as his paws sunk into the thick mud. Soon they were at the crook in the river enveloping what remained of their camp, now an island against the rushing river.
"Hello?!" Heatherpaw shouted, though his voice was carried away by the wind, with no chance of reaching any cats that potentially remained trapped there. "I'll go over alone, all of you stay here. I'll be back soon if no one is there, if I seem to be taking a while, send the strongest swimming pair over."
"Alright," Milfoilcloud gave a resolute nod and Heatherpaw dove into the water. He easily swam the first fox-length before an underwater rock sent the current spiraling, bashing him against it. He coughed, faltering, and was pushed underwater, his mouth filling with water as he struggled to right himself and continue across the water.
"Heatherpaw is right. If we split up we are more likely to get lose." She glanced at Milfoilcloud. "Our best chances to find the lost cats is to stay a group. As silly as that sounds. If a cat is in danger it would best for all of us to have strength in numbers." Jayflower stepped toward Milfoilcloud, knowing the she's sister was one of missing cats. She smiled to reassure Milfoilcloud.
(No worries, Opal :) )
"You guys don't know the territory," Heatherpaw cautioned. "We know which way the river flows and where cats were when the flood hit, so we can work off of that. If we split up, chances are we're just going to lose more cats."
Milfoilcloud nodded, a shiver running down her spine as lightning cracked overhead.
Tidebreaker glanced around at the small patrol, taking note that there were more Moonclanner's than Earthclanner's here. He sighed, blue eyes focusing on Ocelotstride again. "We'd probably have a better time if we split up. Cover the entire territory." He suggested, waiting for Heatherpaw's approval.
Jayflower walked with the group taking a second to glance back at the river then turned back and padded along side her clan-mates and the earthclanner. She scanned the tree lines carefully searching for any sign of life is the storm.
(I'm so sorry I forgot about this) Opalfur nodded a thank you to Jayflower once again after they had made it across, before flicking an ear at Heatherpaw's words, acknowledging what he said. "I hope we aren't too late." She murmured.
(Over ten)
After the last of the MoonClanners had made it across, Heatherpaw steeled himself and dove into the water, his paws beating heavily against the water as he tried to propel himself forward.
"StarClan!" He swore as he caught a current and was pushed downstream a fox-length before regaining his composure and making it to the other side. He shook out his pelt, dog-like, and called "Okay, we'll need to do that again to get to the camp. Everyone, please stay close together!"
Heatherpaw waited silently as the MoonClan she-cats helped each other across, struck for the first time at how much they simply sounded like his sisters. These weren't the harsh, militaristic cats he'd always been taught to fear at their northern border.
Jayflower nodded and smiled at the she-cat to try to calm her nerves. She stood on the side of Opalfur so the flowing water would push into her first so if she slipped she would be able to quickly steady her. This also made it easier for Opalfur to lean against Jayflower. She walked close to her so she was always touching the other she in some way. Once they where in the middle of the flowing river she looked at Opalfur. "Are you ready?" She mewed loudly.
Opalfur looked towards Jayflower, her eyes still wide, but she felt a little better at the offer. "Thank you." She meowed loudly over the rain, her eyes filling with gratitude.
Jayflower glanced at the fearful Opalfur. Her head was low from the weight of the water in her thick coat. She padded to Opalfur and stood next to her. She looked at the she-cat. "It's ok Opalfur, I will swim with you. You can lean on me and use me as a steady point." Jayflower yelled over the rain.
Opalfur had her paws rooted to the floor, her eyes wide with fear. She did not like swimming, and she certainly didn't want to swim in this weather, She didn't want to admit it, but she hated water. "I don't think I can... do this..." She muttered, fear lacing each word she spoke. "I... I can't... do this..."
Jayflower stayed toward the back of the patrol her ears perked. She listened to all of the other cats carefully and also scanning the surroundings. Her only hope was that the cats they were searching for were alright and unharmed. Her clan mates meant everything to her, and knowing that a few were in grave danger angered her.
"Alright." Heatherpaw meowed with a sharp dip of his head. He doubted that she was actually as skilled as her sudden confidence was trying to feign, but now wasn't the time to contradict her and start a fight. They needed to hurry, if the lost cats weren't already dead, they were in grave danger. He almost signed in relief as she made it across, hoping that it would ease the other MoonClanners' worries.
'Trust me, I wouldn't rely on you even if the fish started to leap out at us!' Ocelotstride thought with a huff at the sudden confidence in the Earthclan tom, Heatherpaw. "I was just wondering, I won't need your help anyhow." Her words were blunt and simple before the molly's pretty gaze flashed to the river again to watch the black and white tom make his way into the water. For a moment, she almost had forgotten that he was half-clanned, however that quickly changed when Tidebreaker spoke. 'Starclan, when did you get so tall?' Ocelotstride wondered, a thoughtful smile appearing on her muzzle that lasted only a second as the rain streamed down her forehead and she placed her paws firmly onto the river's shoreline, waiting for the others to prepare themselves to do the same.
The black and white tom-cat nodded his approval at Heatherpaw, before taking up the lead of the patrol. He glanced at Ocelotstride again, slightly amused by her misery. He wasn't a huge fan of a water, but when he was younger, Blacknose had taught him and his brother's how to swim. Fadewhisker had joined begrudgingly, but now he had his father to thank because he'd never willingly volunteer for this rescue mission is he didn't know how to swim.
"It's alright, I can help everyone across." He waded into the running water until he was chest deep. "It's shallow enough until we get to the middle. I can give you all a boost in order to send you over."
Ambersky watched silently as the MoonClan cats glanced nervously at the flowing water. It wasn’t that long since the cats left the camp, theirs fur weighed down from the large amount of water kept in there as heavy droplets pouring down on the patrol. The molly looked around for any sign of life but she was met with drooping leaves and muddy puddles instead.
Letting out a soft sigh, her eyes wandered back to the MoonClanners and Heatherpaw. Even though the apprentice was trying his best to mask it, the warrior could clearly see that the tom was afraid, his tail trembling from the pouring rain. Peeking another glance to the rest of the patrol, Ambersky let out another sigh, this time heavier then others. Maybe the she-cat could help her Clanmates for once? She was never a brave cat anyway. But..the more time they spend here, the less time her Clanmates have to survive in that dreadful flood.
A decision was made. She took a step forward and meowed to the group, slight fear and shyness detected from her voice.
“I will go first if you want..and then maybe you can go after me..” The silver she-cat eyeing a molly with striking fawn coloured pelt, silently asking for her name.
"No, maybe when the water level's low enough you could jump over rocks at Snake Gorge, but that must all but underwater now and the water will be so fast there, I don't even know if I could manage. If you go right ahead of me, I can come and get you if you look like you're struggling," Heatherpaw answered, trying to sound as confident as he could manage.
"I can't wait until this is over with!" The brown Bengal hissed over the loud rain. Ocelotstride's ears flattened against the wind and rain that streamed down onto her sleek, spotted pelt, making it spike up toward the tips. She despised it all very dearly, that was clear to see by her scrunched nose of disgust and blue-green glare that was flashed toward Tidebreaker. "Yeah, I hope you're right because I'm not going to go through this again." The molly muttered back to him before her eyes looked to the fast moving water in front of them then to Heatherpaw. "Are you positive that there's no other way to go around like maybe a couple willow trees to climb from or a log to use as a bridge?" The molly asked confidently, and although she wouldn't admit it, concern hinted in her voice.
"All of you go first, I'll take up the rear," Heatherpaw decided, not hearing Tidebreaker's comment to Ocelotstride over the roar of the storm. He hung back, waiting as they crossed.
Tidebreaker padded beside his best friend, teeth playing with his bottom lip as they trudged through the rain. His thick pelt clung to his sides, revealing just how feminine he really looked. He glanced sideways at Ocelotstride, biting his lip just a bit harder in order to hold back from laughing. He knew they were on a serious mission but seeing the Bengal she-cat soaked to the bone with that ridiculous look on her face, Starclan it was priceless. The black and white tom-cat shifted his gaze toward Heatherpaw, doing his best to study the apprentice through the rain. "He might be an apprentice, but he seems to know what he's doing. Stormstar might've forgotten about his warrior ceremony." He directed his words toward Ocelotstride.
Heatherpaw lead the patrol southward as the rain beat relentlessly down on them, a growing sense of unease in his stomach as they neared the river. "We're going to try and get through to the far eastern side of the river!" He shouted over the rain. "It'll be wider there, but not as deep!"
A scrawny, thin Havana brown tom-cat pushed his way through brambles and bushes, his singular green eye glowing in the darkness. He'd traveled far, his dark pelt stained with blood. His fight with Winterjay hadn't gone as expected. The plan was to take his life and leave unscathed. It was only fair, especially after what the former loner had done to Jupiter.
The small cat was filled with hatred and distaste for anyone who called themselves clan-members. Just the thought of joining one caused bile to rise in his throat. Disgusting, pathetic creatures. He gathered the saliva in his mouth and spit, what he had expected to be clear liquid was red. If that Moonclanner hadn't gotten in my way... He grumbled to himself, swaying slightly on his paws.
Jupiter's injuries were nothing to worry about it, they were just a small annoyance to him. A tiny bump in the road. He had bigger problems to fry, such as figuring out how to gain back his followers. After that wretched eclipseclanner had stepped in and basically stole all of the queens, his soldiers had left him, alone in the void.
"Why not persuade young kittypets to join you?" He thought about it for a moment, but then shook his head. "No that wouldn't work. Winterjay was like them and he betrayed me." His needle like claws dug into the ground as he walked, snow freezing the pads of his feet.
"Hmm." Cherrybloom frowned, starting at the ground as she thought. "I know you said their might be prey by the borders, but we could try heading away from the other clans as well. I mean, there are loners out that direction, and they must be eating something, right?"
"There usually isn't much prey this close to the camp, we'd probably be better off heading out a little while, then looking," Notchedfin advised and scented the air, wondering if he could pick up on where earlier patrols had headed out, like he could in his youth. He couldn't pick up anything beyond the vague cat-scent of the camp.
Cherrybloom entered the territory with Notchedfin. Truthfully, she didn't have any ideas on where to go yet.
"I suppose we should just sniff around for prey," she said. "Unless, of course, you had an idea."
"Alright, let's gather up our prey and bring it back to camp. I'm sure everyone will be thankful that you helped hunt." He twitched his tail. "I know there's a rivalry between EarthClan and EclipseClan at the moment, and not everyone will accept the fact that you're here. Scrap that, even if that wasn't happening, everyone would still mistrust you." He looked away over his left shoulder. "Just watch out, okay?"
(off to camp)
Darkpaw nodded, not really a huge believer in Starclan. She'd grown up without it, her mother refusing to really look at her. She wondered if Cherrycloud knew she'd been banish... did she even care that her daughter was gone? "You think we could head back to camp now?" The small apprentice would never admit it, but she god a bad feeling, like someone was talking about her.
"That water is what gives life to this world, a gift from StarClan." Brassblaze's words were tinted with amusement. "You also drink it, so most of the time, you would be the the attacker." He lay dawn, enjoying the ferocious sun, shining down on the large rock. Just the way the rocks emitted heat was calming.
She watched him catch the lizard, tilting her head slightly at the sight of the reptile. She hadn't really seen on up close, having been sheltered in the abandoned two-leg nest. At his order, she turned and scented the air, the faint smell of weasel wafting up her nose. She slid off of her rock, sneaking around the side of the boulder. She spotted the small mammal near the edge of the water. The wind was on her side, blowing her scent far away from the little creature. She crept up behind it, pushing off her hind-legs with her fore-paws outstretched. Darkpaw almost missed it, claws digging into it's behind as it tried to escape. THe young apprentice held on, grounding herself before she made a killing bite to it's neck. Unfortunately she was now soaked again. Saddened by the fact that it would take her forever to dry off, the smoky grey she-cat padded back to Brassblaze with her catch. "The water attacked me." She grumbled slightly, placing the weasel at her feet.
Brassblaze sprinted to the riverbank, lapping up the refreshing water. Once he had his fill, the warrior scented the air, hoping there was still prey nearby. Luckily, he found a hint of the dull scent of lizard. Following his nose, he slowly stalked towards his prey. As the scent got stronger, he found his himself looking around for the lizard. There! And pounce! Thank you StarClan, for this prey. He quickly buried it and returned to Darkpaw, "Your turn."
Brassblaze sprinted to the riverbank, lapping up the refreshing water. Once he had his fill, the warrior scented the air, hoping there was still prey nearby. Luckily, he found a hint of the dull scent of lizard. Following his nose, he slowly stalked towards his prey. As the scent got stronger, he found his himself looking around for the lizard. There! And pounce! Thank you StarClan, for this prey. He quickly buried it and returned to Darkpaw, "Your turn."
Darkpaw was amazed, eyes roaming over the rocks as the sun hit them perfectly. I know why they call it sunwarm rocks now. She chuckled to herself, leaping onto one of the rocks to get a better vantage point. It was so different here. So many more colors than the dull greys and blacks she was used to back in Eclipseclan. The sound of running water drew her yellow-green gaze toward the riverbank, a small smile appearing on her face. "This is awesome!" She half-yelled, flattening her ears in embarrassment. I probably just scared away all the prey.
In this new-leaf weather, there had to be some good plump prey around. Brassblaze led the way, making his way through the territory he knew well until he reached the brightly lit Sunwarm Rocks. "It's okay if you wander away, but stay close to here." He would keep an eye on the small she-cat.
“I do,” Kudzuthroat lied and gave the tom a deep dip of his head as a show of respect. He gave an uncertain look around himself and decided to just head westward. Eventually, he figured, they’d hit SunClan’s territory and he could head north there until Hawk’s Tree, then walk along the edge of the city until things became familiar once more. [Poof to EcC-SC Border?]
Nightwhisper thought for a moment. “No.“ He looked to Kudzuthroat. “Listen. I will come with you to assist only with the herbs. Afterwards, I must go. Understood?” He looked to them. Whatever was in his eyes, it was chilling. There was something odd about this cat. He dipped his head. “Lead the way.”
Kudzuthroat trailed after Nightwhisper into EarthClan’s territory, carefully maintaining the guise of a worry-driven clanmate.
“S-sir?” He asked. “You can come with me, if you’d like. EclipseClan could use a cat with your convictions.”
Wonderkit and Briarkit sat and watched, occasionally batting at one another's tails and mewling un-concernedly. "When are we going to this.. Camp?" Wonderkit butt in, though, not without a shove from Briarkit.
Darkpaw was small in comparison to the earthclan leader, her fluffy grey pelt made her look bigger than she was. She wanted to turn tail and run, but she knew she wouldn't last long by herself. She was small, and had barely started any of her warrior training. She knew nothing about surviving. She didn't respond to him at first, only backing away with her hackles slightly raised and a frown on her terrified face. When Stormstar growled, she snapped out of the shock and finally focused her yellowish-green eyes on the earthclanner.
"No!" she shouted, surprising herself. "I mean n-no." She tried to calm her racing heart, taking in slow measured breaths. Darkpaw was unsure of the tom-cat's thoughts, not knowing if he'd end her pitiful life with her next words. "I was exiled. Dieseltooth ran me out. I'm sorry for trespassing." It was the honest truth, she rarely ever tried to lie. What good would it do her? She preferred honesty any day.
"P-please.." It was getting increasingly hard to speak, her shivering causing her teeth to chatter. The water had froze her pelt to her sides, her rib cage showing underneath. If she didn't get warm soon, hypothermia would set in.
Stormstar jerked his head around at the sound of a creature crashing through the territory. He unsheathed his claws, ready to defend his family at a moment's notice. Instead of a raccoon, or badger, a small apprentice appeared with wide eyes and he stepped aside to avoid a collision. He tilted his head curiously and approached. "Who are you? An EclipseClan spy?" he meowed sternly.Was EclipseClan really that bold, to send cats over already after he had tried to help their dying leader? He bared his teeth and crouched, giving out a warning hiss to the intruder.
She'd been running the moment Dieseltooth barred her teeth. If given the chance, the young she-cat might've challenged the deputy, but two of Eclipsclan's bigger warriors had run her out before she had the chance to speak. They'd chased her to the river separating Earthclan from Sunclan.
The water had felt like ice against her skin, she'd been soaked to the bone after falling in. Her smoky grey pelt had icicles forming along the ends, teeth chattering and body shivering in protest.
Darkpaw crashed through the underbrush, chest heaving with the effort to take in air. She skidded to a stop just before Stormstar and Blossomstar, yellowish-green eyes filled with terror. If Starclan even exists, they're definitely not on my side. She glanced between the two leaders, taking note of how small she was compared to the two giants before her. I don't stand a chance.
She wanted to curl up somewhere warm, she wanted her mother- Cherrycloud. A lump began to form in her throat and tears sprung to her eyes as she stared like a deer in headlights.
----
"I can head back and have Midnightstorm bring a patrol of some warriors and apprentices. We'll be a strong force." He smiled, relief washing over him as Stormstar agreed. The sound of crunching branshes and paws pounding against the forest floor caught his attention. He shifted, turning his golden gaze on the bushes as soon as the young eclipseclanner crashed through them. Blossomstar recognized her to be the apprentice from the gathering, the one who had insulted him. However, this wasn't his place nor was it his territory to confront why she was here. He didn't sense anymore cats coming at the moment, he said his farewell to Stormstar and promptly left. He had no time to deal with the eclipseclan apprentice. He needed to get back to his own clan and make sure everyone was doing their job.
Stormstar sighed in relief. EarthClan now had an ally, and a large one at that. EclipseClan was rather small and he never considered SunClan much of a threat. "Great. We can spend this time preparing our warriors so come new-leaf, the other clans wouldn't dare attack." he assumed out loud. He turned to the leader and dipped his head. "I'll send most of my warriors and some apprentices to the ancient oak grove for training this week." he concluded. Hearing small excited mews he looked back to the kits headed for his daughter, Honeypaw and let out a chuckle.
Blossomstar smiled slightly, glad to hear that Stormstar was on the same page. "I appreciate the support Stormstar. I also thank you for standing up for me at the gathering." He dipped his head. "Moonclan will stand by you as well. I think we should consider a training together. We'll be stronger in numbers, especially if Sunclan and Eclispeclan decide to attack. We have some time, since Fencestar is down for now." He thought back to her fall, the blood she had lost.
Wonderkit was still skeptical when Briarkit spoke up, "Come on Wonder, it might be are best chance and," he purred, "Warm dens!" He bounced a little as he said that. Wonderkit considered it. She hadn't eaten much since the squirrel and she wondered what crowfoot they had. Plus, something about the queen made Wonderkit feel safe. Then, she considered her brother. She didn't want anything to happen to him, they were bare skin and bone, essentially walking skeletons. She decided it was for the best, though she decided to make it sound as if it were he agreeing, and not being made. "OK, sure. As long as you keep your promises." "I call the ride!" Briarkit suddenly squealed,running toward Honeypaw. "NOOO WAY!" Wonderkit responded playfully. It felt good to be... a kit.. for once as she raced after her brother.
Stormstar paused to look back to Marshmumble as he heard loud squeaking from the two kits, and had a questioning look on his face. They sure were feisty, and he wondered where they came from. Hopefully not from another clan; he didn't need to add that onto the already growing list of risks and tensions of the clans. It was a few hours past sunrise now and he could hardly keep his eyes open but the fate of this alliance was being decided now. He listened carefully to the other leader. "I agree, EclipseClan has always been trouble on their own. Now add in SunClan, and they both will get more confident." he nodded his head. Should EarthClan join in on this? It wasn't exactly their problem, but what Blossomstar said was true. They would not survive an attack by both clans in leaf-bare or shortly following the snow melt. Besides, he sympathised with the new leader. He was being blamed for things he had no part in, and it wasn't up to the clans to question his leadership. "I believe MoonClan needs a leader like you. I stand by you, and so does EarthClan." he decided firmly.
Marshmumble walked forward and crouched down, "Not at all, little one," her soft voice held an air of safety, "But its cold out here- and we want to make sure you're safe. We have a camp nearby- with warm dens and food for you to eat. You won't have to do anything you don't want to do, but if you'd come with us, we wouldn't have to worry about you catching your death of cold." The warrior wondered if there was an herb that could bring her milk back.
Honeypaw watched her mother work with a creased brow, but nodded along as she spoke. Her yellow eyes were dainty, providing a wonderful supporting cast for the scene.
"You can ride on my back!" she said enthusiastically.
The kits backed away from the nudge and hissed. Wonderkit stared up indignantly at Stormstar. "Of course I can walk mouse-brain! I'm not incapable!" She acted as if not every single one of her bones were jutting out along her frame, and that her eyes hadn't looked dull and empty. Briarkit merely stared, he wasn't sure what was happening but he could tell those large cats didn't have too bad of intentions. "What do you want from us!?" Wonderkit continued to snarl, "Are you trying to take us? B-because I-I-I w-won't let-let you!" She hissed. Her thin frame began to shake as a chill seeped into her skin and she was shaking furiously, though she held her ground.
It was true that the announcement of Eclipseclan and Sunclan's alliance had made him uneasy, especially due to recent events. He was still getting a handle on being leader, most of his clan-mates were unsure of his abilities. Blossomstar was becoming increasingly frustrated with the number of cats who disobeyed him. It doesn't matter if Dieseltooth attacked first, Cedarpaw had on multiple occasions disregarded Blossomsgars wishes. He was snapped from his thoughts when Stormstar questioned him. "I believe it would be in both of our clans interest to form an alliance. Moonclan has made many enemies and it's just a matter of time before eclipseclan and Sunclan attacks us. Earthclan is at risk. Two clans together start to become over confident and power hungry." He stated, gaze shifting to Marshmumble, Honeypaw and the kits. "I also do not wish to drag Earthclan into our mess. It's entirely your choice if you choose to accept."
Nearly forgetting that the MoonClan leader had accompanied his patrol back home, Stormstar signaled to Honeypaw and Marshmumble to help the kits as he padded over to the tom. "There's only one reason you would travel so far from home with us." he noted before continuing. "With SunClan and EclipseClan against us, is it safe to assume you'd like an alliance with EarthClan?" he questioned. He didn't know much about the new leader but what he had heard and what he saw at the Gathering, the tom was a level-headed leader much like himself. There was no reason for them not to be allies and it would mean a better defense against the growing hostilities of the other two clans. However, with Fencestar losing a life, he was sure EclipseClan wouldn't attempt an attack until at least new-leaf.
Posting for Stormblaze -
The large Maine coon was weary from all of the travel. And now, he was adding almost a days travel back to his own camp by accompanying the Earthclan patrol back to their home. Part of him wondered if this alliance was really worth no sleep. He shook the thought away. Blossomstar wanted to do everything he could to ensure his clans safety and future. He paused, watch as Stormstar and his mate interacted with the kittens. Who would leave kits out here? He crouched low to the ground, realizing his large size might frighten the little ones
The leader dodged to avoid the little kits strike. She had spirit, that was a given. He smiled to his mate while looking down at the kits. "Well we certainly can't leave them out here in the cold." the tom reached down to nudge one of the kits. "Can you walk?"
Marshmumble and Honeypaw trudged in Stormstar's footsteps and when the kits came into view, Marshmumble hid behind Stormstar, unsure of what the commotion was. However, when she saw the little kit hiss at Stormstar's bulk, she chuckled, and moved to whisper in his ear. "You're scaring them- get low, speak softly. Do you want to take them back to camp?" she asked, her warm green eyes smiling at the kits. Honeypaw gazed curiously from behind her parents.
Wonder kit looked up, startled, and lashed out. Her attack was clumsy and pointless however, she was weak and shaking and all her attack did was cause her to stumble and fall into the cold snow. Briarkit woke to the commotion and panicked at what he saw before him, he moved back and pressed himself against the tree, shaking and hissing, though all it sounded like was the crush of leaves. Wonder kit sat herself up and looked up, terrified at the many cats that stood before her. She pressed against Briarkit and finally responded, "Y-yes and... no?" she mumbled, her voice shot and crumpled compared to the leader's strong mew.
Stormstar led the group of cats home from the Gathering. It was an eventful night, and many were tired and hungry including himself. His big black form led the way through the forest following the strong, musty scent of EarthClan. His large yellow eyes began to close as he padded along, and he shook his head to wake himself. Just then, a small, barely noticeable scent crossed his black nose. He paused, sticking his tail out to signal the group to stop. The large tom lifted his nose to the air to confirm his suspicions. Kits. What were kits doing out here in the middle of leaf-bare?! "Marshmumble!" he called to his mate to come forward. EarthClan had no queens at the moment but he knew she would be able to care for them until they figured out what was going on. He followed their scents and nearly stumbled across the two small bundles hiding out in the snow. He reached a large black paw down and prodded them. "Hello," he said softly as not to startle them. "Are you lost?"
Wonderkit sat staring blankly forward. Briarkit slumbered beside her though she couldn't sleep. She felt nervous as she looked anxiously around the forest. She was ready to lash out with the last of her energy to protect Briarkit. Her ears were strained for any sound of danger and nose sniffed for food that would be left behind by a fox or berries that she'd missed.
Wonderkit trudged weakly through this thick forest. Strong smell of cat littered the place, though she didn't much care. She was lightly pushing Briarkit forward, giving him small encouragement.
"I'm hungrryyyyy.." he whined as he slowly placed one foot in front of another.
"I am too Briarkit, just wait. We need shelter before we do anything." She said calmly. Every one of her ribs etched her what would be beautiful pelt, which was dull and unhealthy. Briar kit's eyes were dull and he struggled for breath when they had to climb a tree trunk.
They eventually settled into a hole beneath a tree that was well hidden from any wind and oncoming foxes whom weren't very observant. Wonderkit, left to gather anything to make a small nest as well as a few berries and what was left of a squirrel. Together, Briarkit and Wonderkit ate what they had and soon settled in to sleep. Though, before either could get comfy, Briarkit asked a question that no one wants to be asked,
"Wonderkit? Are we... Are we going to die?"
"Of course not! I won't let it happen!" Wonderkit said firmly enough to convince Briarkit though deep down, she thought that maybe... they would die. Though she settled in to sleep, it didn't come.
"Alright, stay safe," Broken Eggshell said by way of farewell and ducked back into the undergrowth, brushing off a clump of snow from a nearby fern as they disappeared into the bracken.
"No thank you, I think I'll head back to camp, I'm getting a little cold."
"Nah, you're good. You're welcome to tag along if you'd like, I suppose it is a bit dangerous to be out alone this late," Broken Eggshell assured her.
"Oh, okay then. Sorry for bothering you."
"Everyone's so fluffed-up in this weather, I imagine we all do," Broken Eggshell chuckled. "I'll leave you to it, then...?"
"It's fine! I would have thought I looked like a giant squirrel"
Broken Eggshell, also alone, stalked through the undergrownth. They looked up as they heard a twig breaking downwind of them and started toward it, nearly atop Squirrelclaw before they realized that she was, in fact, another cat and not a bit of prey.
"Oh, hi!" They greeted. "Sorry for sneaking up on you, I thought you were a weasel or something!"
*Squirrelclaw was pacing around the territory, not on patrol, just taking some time to be away from camp, alone*
RabbitPaw followed Notchedfin through the forest watching him attempt to hunt a sparrow but stalling behind thinking about the clan,wondering if one mouse even helped. [EaC Camp]
"Let's head out, then," Notchedfin answered and started back toward the camp and a brisk pace. He stopped once to try after a sparrow, but it slipped through his paws and escaped before he could go for another bite. Shaking his head in annoyance, he continued their way ahead. [EaC Camp]
"Ok" she said picking up the mouse and started walking back the way they came. "I want to know who is going to the gathering." she said picking up her pace.
"Back to camp, I imagine," Notchedfin shrugged. "I know we haven't been out for too long, but I expect that if we lollygag too much longer, we'll miss the gathering patrol."
"Oh thats no good." she shook her head the cold air seeping its way under her fur,sending shivers through her. "So where are we heading now?" she asked excited to show others her catch.
"It's an ermine," Notchedfin answered. "They're like weasels, you might have seen one in the freshkill pile. When you find one, you should kill it, even though they make poor prey and are dangerous. They also eat mice, if you give them the chance, so the more we let live in the territory the more trouble we'll have feeding ourselves as the season goes on."
Rabbitpaw noticed a scent come across her she dropped the mouse to smell it better. "I smell a faint scent, but I cant tell what it is." she said wondering if he knew. She flicked her tail curiously.
Notchedfin paused and opened his mouth to scent the air better. Ermine? He wondered, surprised to be smelling something like that so late into leaf-bare. It's stale. He glanced back toward Rabbitpaw, wondering if she had any reference for what the smell was.
Rabbitpaw quickly picked up the mouse and followed him trying to sort through the scent of the newly killed mouse and other prey that might be close. Her fur was think so the snow didn't bother her much other then the occasional shiver. Keeping a keen eye out for any movement, due to her lack of scent.
"Well, I suppose the only way to see if that's true is to keep going and see what happens, though I suspect that was more than beginner's luck. I'm honestly surprised you even caught the scent," Notchedfin answered. He started off into the undergrowth, rotting leaves crunching beneath his feet as a light snow began to fall.
Rabbitpaw dropped the mouse "I barely caught, so I say beginners luck." she said smiling
"Good catch!" Notchedfin praised, smiling brightly at her. "That was nearly perfect, it seems like you'll be teaching me before long. In particular, it's good that you were so quick about it- it's best to kill them before they can squeak, or they'll alert half the forest that you're there."
Rabbitpaw flicked her tail and began to follow the scent of the animal. She followed the scent over a fallen tree then stopped suddenly hearing movement in the underbrush. She crouched down and slowly padded forward until the tail of a mouse was in her sight, leaping instantly just barely catching the mouse, she hooked it with her claws and killed it with a quick bite. She turned her head to Notchedfin with the mouse in her jaw and muffled "look".
Notchedfin raised his eyebrows in questioning, pretending not to smell the vole-scent.
"Smell something?" He whispered. "Try tracking it."
Rabbitpaw sniffed the air, her tail twitched as she caught the scent of an animal. She turned her head to Notchedfin and asked if he smelt it too.
"Good catch," Broken Eggshell commented, giving Blacknose a smile in response. He started off further into the territory at an easy pace, shivering as snow flurries began to fleck his pelt, standing out starkly against the dark splotches.
The large black and white tom-cat had slipped away from the group for a few moments, having caught wind of a mouse. Lucky enough for him, he'd not only managed to catch the tiny morsel, but a squirrel as well. Blacknose carried his catch, coming to stand beside Broken Eggshell.
Broken Eggshell raked the dirt back over his vole and joined back with the body of the patrol, silently waiting for a few of the cats that had wandered off into the underbrush to come back, so they could proceed further into the forest.
Smudgedstone kept as quiet as he could, although the fallen, dead leaves crunched against his fluffy paws. He wasn't the most coordinated of toms, but certainly tried his best. The Himalayan studied his clanmates as he reached their destination. The large cat's whiskers twitched to allow them to fully split away and search for creatures. He turned to the creek and scented the air cautiously.
Broken Eggshell darted off into the undergrowth a moment, the drying bracken rustling as they passed before going quiet. The length of a long sigh passed before a little squeak of dying prey rang out and Broken Eggshell emerged, giving a little nod to their patrol as they started to rake their claws through the hardened ground to bury it until they returned on their way back to the camp.
Blacknose followed after the patrol, taking up the rear. He'd much rather walk by himself, silently observing and listening to the small talk his clan members made. The change in the weather was starting to become more prominent, the wind sending chills down his spine. He preferred warmer weather, preferred having a full belly. He knew once Leaf-bare hit, the prey would cease to exist and it would get a lot harder to feed all of the hungry mouths back in camp.
"Sounds good," Broken Eggshell replied, humming softly to themselves for a moment as they wandered out into the undergrowth and fell quiet, opening his mouth to scent the surroundings. As leaf-bare neared, the ground seemed hard and frozen beneath his paws while he couldn't smell anything in the air beyond the crisp smell of drying leaves and dormancy.
Smudgedstone didn't mind the peace as he led out the patrol onto the marshy terrain. His deep green eyes held the same glow as Wrinkleface's had once done when he turned his head to speak to the little group of cats. "We'll head towards Mossy Hollow and see what we can find along the creek, is everyone alright with that?" The fluffy tom asked, his bushy tail thumping against the ground as he walked over a fallen tree branch.
Broken Eggshell followed Smudgedstone out of the camp, oddly cheerful despite the general anxious hum of the camp as they adjusted to Stormstar's leadership and the sudden death of Glass-star at the paws of a SunClan patrol.