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
"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.
(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.
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.
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."
"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.
"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!"
"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?"
"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?"
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.
“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.”
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.
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
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.
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!"
"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."
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.
"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."
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.
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.
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.
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
"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.
(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.
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.
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."
"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.
"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!"
"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?"
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)
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.
“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.”
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.
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
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.
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.
"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!"
"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."
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.
"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."
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.
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.
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.