The Beginning of an End-Part 3

Everlight watched BlackClan go. They were gone, after a long, grueling, forceful time. Everlight sighed, and closed her eyes. She turned to Bluegaze, ignoring Shadowsoul.

"We have to find LakeClan. But how? They must be so far away by now..."

Bluegaze shrugged, then his eyes blanked out, and he sank to the ground.

"Bluegaze!"

She ran over to him, looking at him anxiously...

Bluegaze opened his eyes, and blinked slowly. A tom sat in front of Bluegaze. He gasped. This was the cat that had gave the prophecy that was ending!

"Greetings, Bluegaze."

Bluegaze dipped his head to the black cat with the blazing red eyes.

"You shall find LakeClan past the MoonCave. I will guide you there."

Bluegaze smiled.

"Thank-you Twilight."

Twilight nodded, then spoke again.

"Though, as your prophecy ends, new danger looks in the corners..."

Twilight's voice changed, and an eerie silence grew over Bluegaze.

"There are Three who will blaze by...
One shall Sear the pathway,
One shall shoot up the Flare,
And one shall Break them all."

Bluegaze's eyes clouded with worry, but Twilight disappeared, and Bluegaze re-awoke, gasping in astonishment.

"I know where to find LakeClan!"

Bluegaze stumbled up, and ran out of the blood stained camp, leaving anyone who wanted to follow to follow.

::---::

Bluegaze stopped, and sniffed the air. LakeClan was nearby, he could feel and smell it. He raced forward again, then saw them. He yowled, and the cats of LakeClan looked over. Markstar stood up, and saw Bluegaze.

"Bluegaze!?"

Bluegaze nodded.

"You can come back to LakeClan! It's safe. BlackClan was driven out with some help."

Markstar's eyes widened.

"Really!? I-is Shatteredpaw safe...?"

Bluegaze looked down.

"I don't know. After the fighting stopped, I didn't see him."

Markstar nodded.

"Come on, LakeClan. We're going home."

LakeClan yowled in joy, and followed Markstar home. Everlight looked at Bluegaze, and whispered.

"What happened?"

Bluegaze looked at Everlight, but not actually seeing her.

"I received a prophecy. Our prophecy is over, and a new, terrible, one has come. I'll tell you about it later."

Bluegaze looked down. They were at the front of the clan also. Then he looked up, and thought. Our duty is done. Though the beginning has just begone. So let us sleep until they come...

::---::

Markstar sighed as he stepped inside the camp. They would need to clean and fix up the camp. Then Markstar's attention was drawn to three cats, only 10 moons, sitting under the Lake Rock. Markstar bared his teeth and hissed. Nestflame narrowed his eyes, thinking he recognized these cats, but it couldn't be possible. He had never seen them before, right? 

Bluegaze narrowed his eyes, and saw the cats through Markstar's mind. Who are they? Markstar spoke.

"Who are you!?"

The cat in the middle, with icy blue eyes stepped forward.

"Greetings. My name is Bre-Burst, and these are my brothers, Singe and Flash. We wish to join your clan."

::---::

(Cliff-hanger. ^_^  Hope you enjoy the new design too!!)

The Beginning of an End-Part2*Updated*

Markstar growled at Nestflame, then stalked out of the Medicine Cat's Den. He leaped onto a cat, and tore his claws into the cat's back, and then continuing with throwing the cat. He pricked his ears when he heard a yowl from the Medicine Cat's Den. he spun around and ran into the den to find several BlackClan Cats running into the secret entrance. He yowled and saw Adder getting up, looking dazed. Markstar ran into the cave and snarled, throwing himself at the enemy warriors. The Queen's who were inside helped fight. He saw his kits guarding the kits of the clan, snarling at the enemy warriors.

More and more BlackClan warriors seemed to come in, and Markstar made a difficult desicion.

"Everyone get into the clearing! It'll be safer out there where we aren't cornered!"

The Queen's nodded, and quickly dispatched the warrior who was attacking them before grabbing the kits they could, and herding the others out. They made a circle around the remaining kits, and tumbled into the Clearing where warriors immediately went to protect them. Markstar followed them out, looking for his five kits. He saw Silhouettepaw and Blazedpaw sticking close to the queens, though his daughter pretty much had to hold on to Blazedpaw to get him to stay. Markstar saw Wanderpaw sticking to the shadows of the camp, her eyes wary. Markstar knew Shatteredpaw and Covepaw had gotten out too. Hopefully they were sticking together. Markstar leaped onto a tom, and sent the tom wailing. Then he looked around, and the whole battle seemed to zoom out around him. His eyes only focused on one thing. Markstar yowled and ran forward, bumping into cat fighting, but not noticing. He crouched down beside the still body, his eyes filled with grief.

"Covepaw! No!"

But Markstar had to face the fact, that Covepaw had been killed. Markstar shook, and yowled above the roar of the battle.

"LakeClan! Retreat!"

Many of the LakeClan cats looked at him in surprise, but didn't ask any questions. They got away from their attackers, and headed out of the camp. Markstar grabbed Covepaw's scruff, and saw Nestflame dragging Strongspirit out of the Medicine Cat Den with Adder helping. Markstar looked away from Nestflame's burning stare. Hopefully know one else had been killed. He pushed his way to the front of the clan, letting Wrencall take Covepaw.

"Go to the border and over! We lost. We wouldn't have won. I'm sorry, to everyone."

Markstar hung his head and ran towards the border, his clan following. He tried to block out the sounds of yowls of triumph from their old camp. Markstar shook his head, and stopped finally when not a trace of LakeClan remained in the air other then his warriors. He flopped down on the ground, not even noticing, that four cats were missing. Four cats were left behind with hundred's of enemy warriors. One of them being Shatteredpaw...

::---::

Sunnycry followed the clan out of the camp, but instead of following them through the territory, she ran to BlackClan's territory. When she got to the border, her eyes brightened when she saw Erol, sitting in the territory, waiting. Sunnycry smiled, and started to walk forward.

I've got my memories,

Always inside of me,

But I can't go back,

Back to how it was.

Pictures of her kit days filled her head, when life was simple.

I believe you now,

I've come too far, 

No, I can't go back,

Back to how it was.

She smiled as she remembered Erol telling her his stories when they were mere kits. Not look at them.

Created for a place I've never known, 

This is home,

Now I'm finally where I belong,

Where I belong.

She broke into a jog, her heart filled with happiness.

Yeah, this is home!

I've been searching for a place of my own,

Now I've found it,

Maybe this is home!

Sunnyblade stopped in front of Erol, his eyes laughing.

Belief over misery,

I've seen the enemy,

And I won't go back,

Back to how it was.

She pictured BlackClan, with Fierystar. She could just tell that Fierystar was gone. Erol's body was laced with fresh wounds.

And I got my heart set on what happens next,

I got my eyes wide, 

It's not over yet,

We are miracles and we're not alone.

Sunnycry smiled, and licked one of Erol's wounds, knowing he had followers.

Yeah, this is home,

Now I'm finally where I belong,

Where I belong,

Yeah, this is home.

Erol smiled, and started to tell Sunnycry all that had happened.

I've been searching for a place of my own,

Now I've found it,

Maybe this is home,

Yeah, this is home.

And now,

After all my searching,

After all my questions,

I'm gonna call it home.

Sunnycry smiled at Erol when he finished, and they started to walk back to the BlackClan Camp.

I've got a brand new mindset,

I can finally see the sunset,

I'm gonna call it home.

Called this is home,

Now I'm finally where I belong,

Where I belong,

Yeah, this is home.

I've been searching for a place of my own,

Now I've found it,

Maybe this is home,

This is home.

And now I know,

Yeah, this is home.

I've come too far,

And I won't go back,

Yeah, this is home.

Sunnycry padded into the camp. Half the cats were gone, but she felt welcomed. Half of her life was spent here. Sunnycry smiled at Erol, knowing her old life was only a memory.

::---::

This is the song used up above-

The Beginning of an End-Part1

Markstar watched the five newest apprentices, his kits, pad out of the Apprentice's Den. It had been four nights since their ceremony, and they loved it. Wanderpaw looked around for her mentor, Dreamsea. Was I right to choose Dreamsea as a mentor...? Markstar shook off the doubt, as he knew Dreamsea was capable. Markstar got up, and padded to the fresh-kill pile. It wasn't large, but large enough for each cat to at least get three bites. The prey was still running, but Markstar could feel a sharp change in the wind that day. Cold air and frost was coming, and they needed to stock up. Some warriors and apprentices were busy making holes to bury the prey in. It was a long process, as the ground was frozen. Markstar padded over to them.

"Just make it as deep as you can. Don't rip your claws out trying to dig in this, because if you have no claws, you won't be able to fight."

Markstar smiled. A few cat's had already had a torn claw from this job, so he didn't want to push it.

Markstar was about to pad out of the camp, when a cat flew at him from the tunnel. Then the whole patrol followed, their fur on end, and their eyes wild. Markstar shook out his fur, and stared at the leader of the patrol, Bluegaze.

"What's wrong Bluegaze!?"

He had never seen Bluegaze so terrified, he relied on the older, blind, warrior, as he usually could talk some sense into a situation. he was usually calm. But Bluegaze's sightless eyes weren't looking at Markstar, they were fixed on Everlight. Everlight's eyes were wide with fear. He heard Bluegaze whisper.

"It's happening... The destruction is here..."

Then Bluegaze's head snapped back to the entrance of camp, his eyes wide with terror. Markstar looked at the entrance. Nothing's there, so why is Bluegaze so terrified- Markstar was pulled from his thoughts as a snarling cat leaped on him. He yowled, and kicked the cat's belly with his hind legs, sending the cat flying. Markstar leaped up, his eyes wild. The clearing stank with the stench of BlackClan, but he had never seen these warriors before. Then, Fierystar's words rang in his head. I have more warriors then you can imagine, and they shall destroy LakeClan. Markstar looked around, searching in vain for his kits. They hadn't had much battle training, they would be killed with in the first moments of the battle!

Then Markstar yowled when he saw Wanderpaw was pinned down, a large tom biting into her neck. Markstar snarled and leaped at the tom, ripping into his shoulders and face. The tom looked shocked, then ran off. Markstar grabbed Wanderpaw's scruff. She was still breathing, but how badly hurt was she? Markstar ran to the medicine cat den. He saw that Nestflame had the secret room opened, and Markstar dragged Wanderpaw into it. Jayflight was inside, getting herbs ready, and he immediately leaped to help Wanderpaw. Markstar ran back out, and got his four other kits, and herded them into the secret room. Blazedpaw protested, saying he could fight.

"No! You'll be killed!"

Markstar threw them in, entrusting that Adder would guard the room well. Queens and kits were already inside also. Good. Everyone who can't fight is safe. Markstar then leaped into the battle, finding himself fighting beside Strongspirit. But where was Fierystar?

::---::

Erol stood in the BlackClan camp. He knew that there was a battle raging inside LakeClan, but he had to take care of business. He could feel it was time. Fierystar sat in the middle of the camp, listening. The whole clan sat around the perimeter of the camp, some scared and worried, others glowing triumphantly. Erol was one who sat in the circle, his eyes scanning the circle, taking into perspective where all of Fierystar's loyal warriors were. They all sat behind Fierystar in the circle, and Erol sat across from them. Erol then stood up, and walked onto the center of the camp, facing Fierystar, his claws unsheathed. Erol snarled.

"Your rule over this clan is over Fierystar! Step down, or I'll make you. I am leader now."

Fierystar snarled, then laughed.

"Never! This is my clan. And a weakling like you would never defeat me."

Erol looked down, shaking his head.

"I didn't want to have to fight... But if I have to, then I will!"

Erol snarled and he leaped at Fierystar as he said the last line. Fierystar was taken by surprise. Then regained himself as he felt Erol's claws dig into his shoulders. Fierystar flipped Erol over easily, and ripped into Erol's chest. Erol's body convulsed with pain as the skin was ripped away. But then he leaped up, but only half way, and sank his teeth into Fierystar's neck. Fierystar's eyes widened, and he tore himself away, blood flowing from his wound. Fierystar then placed his paw on Erol neck, claws digging in. Erol gasped for air, and Fierystar smirked.

"Any last words...?"

Erol snarled, and choked out a sound, blood trickling from his mouth.

"Y-ya. Hope your stomach gets better."

Erol snarled, and with all of his effort, kicked his back legs into Fierystar's stomach, claws tearing into the flesh. Fierystar's eyes widened as his body arched, and then gasped as he was flung across the clearing, a large gaping wound in his stomach. Erol stumbled and got up, his paws threatening to collapse beneath him. Erol felt light-headed as he was losing a lot of blood from his chest. Then he stumbled to his knees, his paws tucked underneath him. Erol watched Fierystar's breathing stop, then start again shortly after. Fierystar struggled to sit, blood still lightly flowing from his wounds, though they had been mostly healed by the Dark Forest when he had lost a life. Fierystar snarled, then looked around to see many cats baring their teeth, ready to attack. Erol choked.

"Leave. Or my warriors will kill you."

Then Erol looked at the large crowd.

"Anyone who doesn't want to stay, you better go with Fierystar. If I find any of his followers still here, they shall be attacked mercilessly."

A quarter of the clan got up and surrounded Fierystar, and then the group padded out of the camp, hopefully forever. Erol then let his head sink into his paws, his breathing ragged. Erol saw the medicine cat come up to him, and treat his wounds before Erol passed out. 

::---::

Ridgefeather blinked open his eyes. He was still in the cage, but he was no longer restrained, and no tubes were attached to him. Ridgefeather stood up shakily, and saw two Two-leg's staring in at him. They were talking, but he couldn't understand a word they said.

"So you jsut found him, almost dead in your back yard?"

The female nodded.

"Yes. he must be a wild cat. There are wild cat's in the forests back there."

The man in the white coat nodded.

"He's ready to leave. He'll be a bit shaky. If he's wild like you he is, take it slow. It'll be weird for him, especially with that cast. We were lucky to save that leg. It had been broken in seven places."

The female nodded.

"So I can take him today?"

The man nodded.

"Ya. Let me just get a carrier."

The female waited, and opened the door of the cage. Ridgefeather cringed backward, but didn't hiss. He was more scared then wanting to attack. The Two-leg's had saved his life, hadn't they? Did that mean he should be scared of them? Ridgefeather saw the white coat two-leg come back with a different cage, and he carefully grabbed Ridgefeather's scruff. Ridgefeather shook as he was gently put into the new cage. The female two-leg said some other words, then walked out of the Two-leg place.

Ridgefeather blinked at the brightness of the sky, and turned his head into the darkness of the cage. 

Ridgefeather knew he had fallen asleep, but he was awoken when he head a meow of welcome. Am I back home...? But when he opened his eyes he was still in the cage. Ridgefeather sighed, still feeling very tired. The cage he was in stopped bouncing, and he turned his head to looked out the entrance. Another cat was sitting there, her head tilted. 

"Why don't you come out! No one will hurt you. You're a wild cat, right? I used to be a stray... but not wild. My name is Maple. What's yours?"

Ridgefeather turned around, his eyes sullen. He slowly crept forward, and stepped out of the cage, his hind leg felt like a dead weight because of the cast. As soon as all four of his paws were out of the cage, his front feet slipped forward, and his back feet backwards. He yowled in surprise, and fell to the ground. 

"My name is Ridgefeather... I lived in a clan. "

Maple nodded.

"Want me to show you around? You live here now!"

Ridgefeather sighed, and shook his head.

"I just want to lie down. I want to go home."

Maple blinked, sincerity in her eyes.

"I know you do, but, you almost died. Here, you can live a safe life. Come on. You can lie down over here."

Maple padded away, and Ridgefeather padded after her, or more like clunked and slipped after her. he sighed in relief as he felt the ground change. This ground was easier to grip on, and he looked around. He had never been in a two-leg nest before, and it was huge. And warm. Then he heard Maple meow, and saw her sitting on a weird log.

"What's that?"

Maple laughed.

"It's a couch! It's superrr soft! Come on up!"

Ridgefeather judged the height, and tried to jump up, but couldn't because of his leg. He turned his head when he heard someone come in. He saw the two-leg standing in the entrance of the area, a slight frown on her face. She then walked away, and soon came back with some boxes. Ridgefeather stared at the devices, not sure what they were.

"Come on. They're to help you get up."

Ridgefeather stumbled onto the first box, and shook with uncertainty, but finally he was on the couch. The couch was soft, softer then the moss that he used to sleep on. He sighed and curled up in a ball, feeling lonely. Then he lifted his head in surprise when he felt Maple curl up beside him, but he was too tired to object, and he drifted into sleep.

More Ceremonies

Stormpaw, Lionpaw, Stillpaw, Songpaw and Bubblepaw. Please step forward.

*Markstar nodded at the apprentices.*

Mentors, are you satisfied that your apprentice is ready to become a warrior?

*The mentors all nod and respond.*

Yes, they are ready.

*Markstar nodded.*

I, Markstar, leader of LakeClan call upon my warrior ancestors to look down upon these apprentices. They have trained hard to learn the ways of your noble code, and I give them to you as warriors in turn.

Stormpaw, Lionpaw, Stillpaw, Songpaw and Bubblepaw, do you promise to uphold the warrior code and protect and defend your clan even at the cost of your life?

*They nod nod and say I do.*

Then by the powers of StarClan, I give you your warrior names.

Stormpaw, from this moment you will be known as Stormpath. StarClan honors your wisdom, and we welcome you as a full warrior of LakeClan.

Lionpaw, from this moment you will be known as Lioncall. StarClan honors your bravery, and we welcome you as a full warrior of LakeClan.

Stillpaw, from this moment you will be known as Stillecho. StarClan honors your enthusiasm, and we welcome you as a full warrior of LakeClan. 

*The clan started to cheer for the new warriors.*

Stormpath! Lioncall! Stillecho!

*Stillecho looked around at the crowd, she looked at Silentecho, her face beaming, but that quickly changed when she saw he wasn't even watching her, his apprentice. She followed his gaze, and saw him looking at Soul. Stillecho, looked away, and when the cheering stopped, sat down near Grayshadow, her gaze down. Markstar spoke again.*

We now have an apprentice ceremony! 

By naming apprentices we show that LakeClan will survive and remain strong.

  *Markstar's face beamed, and he looked down at his kits, his eyes soft.*

Silhouettekit, Covekit, Shatteredkit, Blazedkit, and Wanderkit, please step forward.

*The five kits stepped forward, faces shining. *

Until you have received you warrior names, you will be known as Silhouettepaw, Covepaw, Shatteredpaw, Blazedpaw, and Wanderpaw!

Dreamsea, Fleckrain, Wrencall, Bladeheart, and Soul, please step forward. Train your apprentices well.

Dreamsea, you shall mentor Wanderpaw.

Fleckrain, you shall mentor Shatteredpaw.

Bladeheart, you shall mentor Covepaw.
 

Wrencall, you shall mentor Blazedpaw.

Soul, you shall mentor Silhouettepaw.

*The mentors touched the apprentices noses, then the clan started to cheer.*

Silhouettepaw! Blazedpaw! Covepaw! Shatteredpaw! Wanderpaw!

*Markstar leaped off of the Lake Rock and sat beside Strongspirit, smiling.*

The Need to Give Effort(BlackClan POV)-Part 6

(If everyone wants to see what happened at the MoonCave, go there and read the comments! PLEASE! It is sooo awesome! I would recommend it if you want to understand the last few parts of this posts...!)

Sunnyblade stared down, shocked. Three kits lay in front of her, all dead. They had been born dead, but they were Raggedflame's. Sunnyblade whimpered, and covered her head in her paws. She knew Fierystar sat in the entrance of the den, his eyes burning with anger. Then he spat.

"You can't do anything good! You're going to have kits again."

Then he stalked away. Sunnyblade shook, then felt a tail on her shoulder.

"Come on. I'm getting you out of here. "

Sunnyblade looked up to see Erol, his eyes were flashing.

"Now!"

Sunnyblade nodded, took one glance at the three lifeless kits, then followed Erol sullenly out a hole in the den. She blinked at the brightness, and had to squint as she followed Erol. She felt blind, but she soon felt the dirt turn to grass, and then shadows covered her. She looked up to see trees. Trees bare of all leaves. She choked.

"W-we're in LakeClan!"

Erol nodded.

"But where's Mossyclaw?"

Erol shrugged.

"I haven't seen her in BlackClan the last few days."

Sunnyblade looked down, and saw the LakeClan camp. Her heart quickened.

"Icycurrent!"

She then bolted ahead of Erol, and into the LakeClan camp. Cats turned to look at who had burst in, and lots started to bristle. She immediately shrank back, realizing she must be unrecognizable. She was much older now, her muscles rippling under her pelt from intense training in BlackClan. Her eyes were cold from her moons their, and her face also showed age. Though she was not old, this look of age was having to handle everything she had to in BlackClan. From being forced to have kits, and even having kits die at her paws. She heard a snarl, and saw Markstar appear.

"Who are you!?"

He sniffed the air, and she knew he could only smell BlackClan.

"Why is a BlackClan cat here!?"

Sunnyblade shook, then saw Erol pad in. His eyes flashed, and he padded to stand beside Sunnyblade.

"She is not a BlackClan cat. She is the daughter of a medicine cat and a deputy. The daughter of Rosedawn and Icycurrent. And her name is Sunnyblade."

Markstar's eyes widened.

"Sunnypaw-blade?! You're still alive!"

Sunnyblade nodded, then saw Icycurrent watching her. His eyes were filled with joy.

"What happened? You look so much different!"

Markstar exclaimed. Sunnyblade looked uneasy, but responded.

"I grew up in BlackClan. Though, I don't want to speak of anything from what happened. There is one thing I wish to get."

Markstar tipped his head to the side.

"I want to receive my warrior name. Fierystar gave me the name Sunnyblade, but it was not a proper ceremony. I want a proper one, and I new name that does not represent BlackClan."

She looked at Erol to see him smiling at her. Markstar nodded, then leaped up onto the LakeRock.

"Since you already have a warrior name, I shall not perform the usual ceremony, as StarClan sees you as Sunnyblade.

"Spirits of StarClan, you know every cat by name. I ask you now to take away the name from the cat you see before you, for it no longer stands for what she is. By my authority as  Clan Leader, and with the approval of our warrior ancestors, I give this cat a new name. From this moment she will be known as Sunnycry for her determination!"

"Sunnycry! Sunnycry! Sunnycry!"

Sunnycry stood proudly, and looked at Erol.


"I need to go, but I'll see you soon."


Sunnycry looked hurt, but before she could speak, Erol spoke.


"I promise I will be okay. But stay here for now, safe."


Sunnycry nodded, and licked his shoulder before he padded away. 

Then, a patrol of cats came in, carrying a body. Markstar dipped his head.


"We shall grieve for Stormbreak tonight. He is welcomed in StarClan."


Sunnycry watched in sadness. She slightly remembered the tom. But she stayed silent, and a while after she saw Bluegaze walk in, limping. Markstar padded over to him.


"Where's Ridgefeather?"


Bluegaze shook his head.


"Apollo, the wolf, took him... "


Markstar narrowed his eyes.


"Where...?"


Bluegaze looked down.


"He took Ridgefeather to the two-legs saying that that may be his only hope of living. StarClan was about to take him. He was about to die..."

Markstar closed his eyes.

"Let's hope he gets back safely."


Bluegaze nodded, then padded to Nestflame's den. Sunnycry stayed silent still, keeping her warrior vigil. She watched as the sun started to climb in the sky, before going to the warriors den.

::---::

Ridgefeather opened his eyes slightly. He was being thrown around in a small area, and he saw bars in front of him. He soon realized he was in a monster before blacking out.

When Ridgefeather re-awoke, he once in a silver room, Two-leg's in white surrounded him, he tried to yowl, but he blacked out before he could.

::---::

Ridgefeather woke in a forest. He looked around. StarClan... My pain is over... Then he saw Fleckwater pad up to him.

"Am I dead?"

Fleckwater looked down.

"I-i don't know. Just hang in there. Good-bye..."

Ridgefeather nodded, and Fleckwater faded.

::---::

Ridgefeather jerked awake, and felt his movements were very slow. He looked around, his body filled with sleep. He was in a silver box, slightly strapped down to restrain too much movement. Many tubes were attached to his leg, and a tube went down his throat. He tried to see his paws, but couldn't, as something was obstructing his view. He looked into the silver wall and gasped.  A collar, a cone was around his neck! Ridgefeather's eyes rolled into the top of his head, and he let his head sink down. 

Ridgefeather stayed this way for a while, and then he saw movement. The cage door was being opened, and he saw a Two-leg face. He cringed backwards in fear, but couldn't move much. He wanted to yowl for help, but the tube down his neck was restricting him. He struggled vainly and felt something rip, before the Two-leg made a quick movement, and he felt a sharp poke in his front leg. He started to feel sleepy again, and before he feel back asleep, he noticed that blood was started to drip onto the cage floor, then he blacked out for the third time.

Expected Ceremonies

Wakepaw, Bladedpaw and Bladepaw. Please step forward.

*Markstar smiled at the apprentices.*

Mentors, are you satisfied that your apprentice is ready to become a warrior?

*The mentors all nod and respond.*

Yes, they are ready.

*Markstar nodded.*

I, Markstar, leader of LakeClan call upon my warrior ancestors to look down upon these apprentices. They have trained hard to learn the ways of your noble code, and I give them to you as warriors in turn.

Wakepaw, Bladedpaw and Bladepaw, do you promise to uphold the warrior code and protect and defend your clan even at the cost of your life?

*They nod nod and say I do.*

Then by the powers of StarClan, I give you your warrior names.

Bladepaw, from this moment you will be known as Bladeheart. StarClan honors your wisdom, and we welcome you as a full warrior of LakeClan.

Bladedpaw, from this moment you will be known as Bladedflame. StarClan honors your bravery, and we welcome you as a full warrior of LakeClan.

Wakepaw, from this moment you will be known as Wakesong. StarClan honors your sincerity, and we welcome you as a full warrior of LakeClan.

*The clan started to cheer for the new warriors.*

Wakesong! Bladedflame! Bladeheart!

*Once the cheering died down, Markstar spoke again.*

Now, as tradition. You must sit a silent vigil tonight to reflect on your warrior duties!

*Then, he continued*

By naming apprentices we show that LakeClan will survive and remain strong.

*Markstar looked down, then smiled.

Songkit, Lightkit, Reedkit, Bubblekit, Fleckedkit and Dawningkit, please step forward.

*The four kits stepped forward, almost bouncing in excitement. *

Until you have received you warrior names, you will be known as Songpaw, Lightpaw, Reedpaw, Bubblepaw, Fleckedpaw and Dawningpaw!

Robinwing, Hailingsky, Whisperspirit, Dizzysong, and Jetblaze, please step forward. Train your apprentices well.

Hailingsky, you shall mentor Dawningpaw.

Whisperspirit, you shall mentor Lightpaw.

Dizzysong, you shall mentor Reedpaw.
 

Robinwing, you shall mentor Songpaw.

Petalshimmer, you shall mentor Bubblepaw.

Jetblaze, you shall mentor Fleckedpaw.
 

*The mentors touched the apprentices noses, then the clan started to cheer.*

Fleckedpaw! Dawningpaw! Reedpaw! Lightpaw! Songpaw! Bubblepaw! 

*Markstar nodded.*

We still have two more ceremonies. Both are very important. Silentecho, please step forward.

*Silentecho stepped forward.*


Stormwater, you wish to step down as deputy. If that is your wish, that is what shall happen.


*Markstar cleared his throat.*


I say these words before StarClan, so that the spirits of our warrior ancestors may hear and approve my choice! The new deputy of LakeClan is Silentecho! 

Silentecho! Silentecho! Silentecho!

*Markstar smiled.*

Congratulations. This also means that Fallenstrike is our head warrior!

Fallenstrike! Fallenstrike! Fallenstrike!

Now. There is one more ceremony, but I can not administer it. Nestflame.

*Markstar dipped his head.*

You have spoken with me and you believe it is time for your apprentice to receive his full name. If you believe he is ready, which I also do, then you two shall go to the MoonCave tonight.

*Nestflame smiled, and looked at Ridgepaw, who's eyes were shining.*

Ready?

*Ridgepaw nodded.*

Always.

*Nestflame nodded, and then Ridgepaw and him padded out of the camp. Markstar then spoke.*

That is all!

The Need to Give Effort(BlackClan POV)-Part 5

Erol walked silently to Fierystar's den, and padded in. Fierystar was curled in his nest, sleeping soundly, though growls came occasionally. Is he... in the Dark Forest...? It doesn't matter, because soon he will be. Erol narrowed his eyes, then leaped back when Fierystar jerked awake, and looked around. Then suddenly,a shining light appeared, and a starry black and white apprentice appeared. A snarl ripped out of Fierystar's mouth.

"StarClan! Get out of my den!"

He leaped at she-cat, but his claws met thin air. Suddenly she was beside Erol. He stood with shock as the apprentice started to sing softly. Fierystar stood rigid too, though his lips were drawn back in a silent snarl.

"The angels are cryin' in StarClan tonight,
Their hearts are so heavy
They've got tears in their eyes,
The angels are crying in StarClan tonight,
Cause they can't understand why,
We can't find the light."

Erol stood speechless, as more starry forms started to appear. Then she said.

"They cry for all the lies,
We live with everyday,
And for all the kits,
Sleepin' in the rain,

For the noble dreams that somehow seem,
To always be in vain,
And for the gentle hearts who still believe,
In the miracle of faith.

The angels are cryin' in StarClan tonight,Their hearts are so heavy
They've got tears in their eyes,
The angels are crying in StarClan tonight,
Cause they can't understand why,
We can't find the light..."

Her voice stopped, and silence filled the den, though StarClan cats were everywhere. Then, Erol heard a voice in his mind. You will win Erol, because you have StarClan on your side. But a true warrior does not need to kill to win a battle, even for revenge. Erol blinked in understanding, and then Fierystar leaped forward, shattering the images of the StarClan cats. They were gone, and that only left Fierystar and Erol in the den. Fierystar was bristling with pure anger, and shot a glare at Erol.

"Why are you in here!?"

Erol gulped.

"I-I was going to ask...."

Erol glanced outside to notice that it was almost Dawn.

"...if you wanted to go on the Dawn Patrol. But I guess not. Sorry for bothering you."

Fierystar narrowed his eyes, but said nothing as Erol left the den. He looked to the sky and watched as the stars faded to light.

::---::

Don't ask about the video. it was the best I could find. :S

Jet-Part 4

Dreamsea padded beside a river, shining and flickering. It seemed to flow up into the stars. She crossed over a mountain, incredibly her paws carried her far over the land. She stood on the top, gazing down at the river. Suddenly, the river and the stars flickered one last time and died, the river flowing into a shimmering sea. 
         Dreamsea gazed in wonder at the scene when she heard a voice.

"A River of Dreams joins a Star, before flowing into a Sea of Dreams, leaving more than memories."

  Dreamsea widened her eyes as the land around her spun into blackness,and she yowled silently as she was carried off of her paws and sucked into the dark. She felt fur brush her side and turned, glaring to see who was brushing against her. A starry gray and white tabby tom was standing next to her, and strangely, strong love and contentment was shining in his eyes.
     Who is he? Does he love me?!
    She was about to ask the tom when he faded quickly, and was replaced by a black tom curled up next to her. Dreamsea suddenly realized that she was in the Warriors den, and Jetblaze was curled up so close their pelts had been brushing all night. Dreamsea snarled softly, than stood and prodded the tom with a paw. His head shot up immediately, his eyes wild. He stared around crazed, before his eyes focused on Dreamsea's enraged face.
  
    "What do you think you're doing?"

Jetblaze smirked.

"I was sleeping.You know, when you close you eyes and have dreams?"

    Dreamsea suddenly felt very far away, reminded of her mysterious dream. She yawned, and realized that it was the middle of the night. She growled at Jetblaze and curled up in her nest.
  
   "Just go farther away. I don't want anyone to think there's anything going on between us."

Jetblaze looked a little disappointed, than looked angry.

  "Yeah. Because there's nothing between us. And there never will be."

   Dreamsea rolled her eyes, but felt too tired to comment on his scathing reply. She closed her eyes and immediately fell into sleep.

(Breeze wrote this so I could use. ^_^ I fixed it up a bit, but enjoy!! I am currently writing the next BlackClan post, so don't worry!!)

The Introduction

I sat staring down at the jumble of cats before me. They wandered around aimlessly, no purpose in life. Except the purpose to serve their clan.

"What a horrible life..."

My brother looked at me.

"What was that?"

I flicked my tail in annoyance.

"Nothing... just speaking to myself..."

He nodded, and went back to dissecting the rabbit in front of him. My other brother stared in disgust.

"This food is horrid!"

I snarled and spun around.

"I don't care what it is. You will eat it, because we have to survive on this for now."

My brother flicked his tail in anger and bared his teeth, but said nothing more. My first brother sat down beside me after getting bored of the rabbit.

"When will we go brother?"

I shot a look at him.

"When we are called to go! Now stop bothering me and let me think!"

I snarled, and heard my brother growl back. I heard the soft clink of claws being unsheathed, but quickly being sheathed again.

"Whatever. I don't know why we have to do this anyways!"

He left, and finally quiet drew over along with darkness. My brother's had left to do something else, probably wondering why I was being so grumpy. I wasn't normally like this. But it was almost time for us to go... Almost time...

I felt eyes peircing my pelt and turned around to see no one, though I could sense a presence. I growled, though it was not my brothers.

"Leave me alone. I can handle us just fine without your help!"

Then, the presence vanished completely, and I was alone once more. I turned around to see that I could no longer see the mass of cats. I growled in anger.

"Whatever. I need a break anyways."

With that I stood up and padded away from the darkness, entering a forest to where prey flourished.

My name. What is my name you may ask? That is not to be known. My name is elusive, like my brothers and I.

Welcome Back... or Not

Soaringheart stood in front of the barn. Silverfang had never come back. It had been moons, and for all those moons Soaringheart had waited.

"I can't wait anymore. I have to go back to LakeClan. I have to see Dreamstar again."

 Soaringheart started to walk towards where LakeClan's territory lay, but then he started to run, the wind rushing by him.

He skidded to a halt right at the border. He looked around then padded into the territory. He felt his heart flutter at the thought of seeing Dreamstar again. Will she remember me? Will she let me join again after what I did? I left so long ago... after the Lynx battle at the Gathering in Leaf-Bare. It's now the end of Leaf-Fall.

Soaringheart stopped and sniffed the air, smelling a patrol. He was about to hide when a cat leaped out at him. Soaringheart yowled as he was pushed to the ground. He bit into the cat's shoulder, but the cat was in better shape and quickly pinned him down. The cat's claws digging into his shoulders. The cat snarled.

"Give me a good excuse of why you are on my territory!"

Soaringheart snarled.

"I used to live here!"

The cat narrowed his eyes.

"I don't remember you."

The cat flicked his tail, and two other cat's padded out of the bushes. He also didn't recognize the other cats. But they looked like the cat that had him pinned down. The cat on top of him snarled.

"I'm going to give you ten seconds to get off of my territory, or I'll chase you off!"

Soaringheart struggled under the cat's grip and gasped.

"I'm here to see Dreamstar! I was her mate!"

The cat stiffened, and got off of him.

"You're... Soaringheart aren't you? You won't be able to see Dreamstar."

Soaringheart bared his teeth.

"Why? Does she not want to see me!?"

The cat looked at the other two cats.

"Come back to camp with my brother's and I. I'll explain there."

Soaringheart looked warily at him, but followed.

::---::

The cat who had attacked him stopepd at the entrance to the camp.

"Stay here. I'll be right back."

Soaringheart nodded and looked at the camp. It looked completely different. Obviously it had been made larger and was stronger than before. Soaringheart closed his eyes and waited.

::---::

Markstar padded to the Warriors Den.

"Rippleblaze! Come out here. I need to speak with you."

Rippleblaze came out and looked at Markstar.

"Is something wrong?"

Markstar nodded.

"Rainingblaze, Fleckrain and I found an intruder on the territory. But turns out this intruder is... Soaringheart. He wants to see Dreamstar. I know how much he loved her before..."

He looked away nervously, and Rippleblaze nodded in understanding. Markstar continued.

"So I know it will hurt him when he finds out. I don't know how to tell him."

Rippleblaze shook his head.

"I can't tell him. I'm the reason he left..."

Markstar sighed.

"Fine. I'll get Grayshadow..."

Rippleblaze nodded and padded over to the fresh-kill pile. Markstar looked around and saw Grayshadow talking to Strongspirit. He walked over and dipped his head.

"Grayshadow. I need to speak with you."

Markstar didn't wait for a reply before continuing.

"Soaringheart. He's back and he wants to see Dreamstar. But I can't tell him. It may be better if you do."

Grayshadow's eyes widened at the mention of her father.

"S-soaringheart is back!?"

Markstar nodded.

"Come with me. He's at the entrance."

Grayshadow nodded and walked to the entrance to meet Markstar there. Markstar smiled at Strongspirit before following. 

Markstar nodded, and walked out of the camp entrance, nodding to Soaringheart. Grayshadow followed.

"Soaringheart!"

Soaringheart's eyes widened and he got up and met Grayshadow.

"It's so good to see you Grayshadow. But I need to see Dreamstar."

Grayshadow's eyes darkened, and Markstar nodded, before speaking. He flicked his tail at Fleckrain and Rainingblaze.

"Go into the camp. I'll handle it from here."

They nodded and padded away, letting Grayshadow speak.

"Soaringheart... You can't see Dreamstar."

Soaringheart looked confused.

"Is she sick...?"

Grayshadow shook her head, tears coming to her eyes at the memory.

"No... You'll never be able to see her...."

Soaringheart's eyes filled with pain.

"I'm too late. Aren't I? I missed my chance to apologize. She's... she's... now dead..."

Grayshadow looked away.

"I'm sorry."

Soaringheart didn't respond.

"Can't I see her in StarClan?"

Markstar shook his head.

"She didn't go to StarClan. We don't know where she is..."

He looked at Grayshadow, warning her to stay quiet about Dreamsea. Though he knew she wouldn't say a word. Soaringheart choked on his tears.

"No... Noo...! She can't be dead... I needed to say sorry. Now I never will!"

Markstar looked away.

"S-so who's leader now? Are you Grayshadow?"

Grayshadow shook her head, waiting for Markstar to speak. Markstar took a breath.

"A cat called Markstar is leader. His warrior name was Markspirit, and he was Dreamstar's and Rippleblaze's kit."

Soaringheart tilted his head.

"May I meet this Markstar...?"

Markstar closed his eyes.

"You're looking at him."

Soaringheart's mouth opened to disbelief.

"You're... Markstar? I had a dream about you many moons ago. But it was happening in real time. You were still a kit. So Dreamstar is really gone?"

Markstar nodded.

"Miststar gave me my ninth life... not Dreamstar. Come into the camp if you want. There are many new faces, and lots more cats. "

Markstar turned around and padded into the camp, leaping onto the Lake Rock. He called the clan together, and Grayshadow and Soaringheart padded to the front. Many of the older warriors gasped as they recognized Soaringheart. Rippleblaze sat in the front of the crowd, his eyes expressionless as he stared at Soaringheart. Markstar cleared his throat and spoke.

"As many of you older warriors have noticed, Soaringheart is back. He came to see Dreamstar... but has recently found out she has died. He may stay if he likes. That is all."

Soaringheart sighed and padded over to Rippleblaze.

"I-i'm sorry and I'm just upset as you are about Dreamstar's death."

Rippleblaze bared his teeth and laughed.

"No. You feel no where near the same pain I felt, or you wouldn't be so composed right now. I was beside her when she died. Her last words were about me. I was going to die myself to be with her. My pain is far greater then yours, and always shall be. And don't you dare say that you loved her more than I did. I risked my life millions of times to save her. The last time I checked, you found by yourself. Fighting your own battle. While I fought hers. And usually I saved her. You shouldn't have come back. It only resulted in a smidge of pain for yourself!"

Soaringheart flinched at the harsh words. Rippleblaze growled and stalked away, his tail lashing the ground, not in anger but in sadness. Soaringheart closed his eyes. I don't belong here. I'll leave in a few sunrises.  Soaringheart stayed where he was until Sun Down, noticing that Jayflight had been in the crowd, but hadn't welcomed him.

:~~Markstar, Soaringheart, Rippleblaze, Grayshadow

The Need to Give Effort(BlackClan POV)-Part 4

Erol padded into the Nursery in the BlackClan camp. It was nighttime, and almost a moon since Sunnyblade had given birth. Sunnyblade was expecting, again. Erol watched Sunnyblade sleep calmly. Then he lied down and curled around Sunnyblade, softly whispering in her ear.

"I wandered through fiction
To look for the truth
Buried beneath all the lies
And I stood at a distance
To feel who you are
Hiding myself in your eyes.

Hold on, before it's too late
We'll run 'till we leave this behind
Don't fall, just be who you are
It's all that we need in our lives.

And the risk that might break you
Is the one that would save
A life you don't live is still lost.

So stand on the edge with me
Hold back your fear and see
Nothing is real 'till's it's gone.

Hold on, before it's too late
We'll run 'till we leave this behind
Don't fall, just be who you are
It's all that we need in our lives.

So live like you mean it
And love 'till you feel it
It's all that we need in our lives.

So stand on the edge with me
Hold back your fear and see
Nothing is real 'till's it's gone.

Hold on, before it's too late
We'll run 'till we leave this behind
Don't fall, just be who you are
It's all that we need in our lives.

Hold on, before it's too late
We'll run 'till we leave this behind
Don't fall, just be who you are
It's all that we need in our lives.

It's all that we need in our lives.
It's all that I need in my lives."

Erol sighed, and got up. Licking Sunnyblade's ear, before padding to Fierystar's den. I have to do this sooner or later...

(The next part of this will also have a song in it. :3 Actual song is at the end of this post.)

::---::

The Need to Give Effort(BlackClan POV)-Part 3

1 Moon Later

Sunnyblade lay in the Nursery, her belly bulging with kits. Sun shone through a crack in the den, warming her in the chilly Leaf-Fall air. Life as a queen wasn't as bad as she expected, at least not yet. But she had two toms looking after her. One she loved with all her heart, the other of who, she respected as a clan-mate. Fierystar also seemed pleased with her progress. Her kits were due anytime, and Fierystar was anxious to make his clan larger and stronger.

By how large Sunnyblade was, Windingflame had guessed that she would have about five kits. She was actually, partially, looking forward to her kits. She adored kits and wanted to protect them at all costs. Now, she could protect her own kits, so she was content where she currently was. Though she detested BlackClan all together.

Sunnyblade jerked, and she looked around. She felt her body convulse, and she winced. One of the queens looked at her, then went to get Windingflame. Though Sunnyblade knew she wouldn't need him. She concentrated on one image in her mind. And before she had known what had happened, her kits were all born. Windingflame had come in some time, and was licking them all clean.

Sunnyblade smiled warmly at her kits. Five, healthy, beautiful kits that look exactly like me an Ragge- No... these kits look nothing like Raggedflame... they look like... Sunnyblade gulped, and curled her tail around the five kits. Erol.... She studied the kits, and she knew she was right. Some of them has the same build as Erol. What will Fierystar do!? She didn't need to wonder no more, as she saw Fierystar pad into the den, his eyes bright.

Fierystar padded over to Sunnyblade, and his eyes soon turned dark. He snarled, and grabbed one of the kits, dropping it at his paws.

"What.... is this!?"

Fierystar growled. Sunnyblade shook slightly.

"M-my kit."

Fierystar growled silently at her.

"Don't act smart! Who's kits are these!?"

Sunnyblade looked away.

"I know you know."

Fierystar smirked.

"Yes, but I want to hear it from you. Or I'll kill this kit."

Her eyes widened, and she gasped.

"E-e-erol's!"

Fierystar smirked, and pressed his paw into the kit's neck, cutting off it's airways. Sunnyblade watched in horror as the kit squirmed and cried silently, gasped for air. It was only moments from dying, when Fierystar unsheathed his claws, penetrating the kit's neck. Sunnyblade wailed softly, wrapping her body around her four other kit's. She weeped.

"Please stop! I never knew this would happen! I never wanted them to be Erol's!"

Fierystar snarled, and towered over Sunnyblade.

"Yes you did! But you were told to have RAGGEDFLAME'S!"

Fierystar smirked.

"I remember this scene. I just need to replace you with Dreamstar, from when I killed her."

Sunnyblade shook fiercely and yowled as Fierystar yanked another kit away from her.

"Now. You shall have Raggedflame's kits. Instead of these weaklings!"

He picked the newborn kit up, and threw it across the den. The kit hit the wall with a snap, and fell to the floor, mewling in pain. Sunnyblade closed her eyes, as she knew the kits back had been broken. Fierystar padded over to the kit, and bit it's neck, letting it die slowly. Fierystar's eyes were filled with pure rage.

"Now. I can give these kits a slow, or fast death. Fast if you hand them over to my willingly. Slow, if you resist."

Sunnyblade held the the three remaining kits firmly, not wanting to see them die.

::---::

Erol turned to Raggedflame.

"What is he doing in there!?"

Raggedflame bowed his head.

"K-killing them... they were your kits. Not mine."

Erol backed away, shaking his head.

"We need to stop him!"

Raggedflame sighed.

"The only thing we can do is maybe save one kit. I'll create a diversion. Be right back."

Raggedflame padded away, and soon came back with an apprentice.

"This is Ivypaw. She'll help. Ivypaw, Erol and I are going to distract Fierystar. While he's distracted, take one of Sunnyblade's kits and take it to LakeClan. Then come right back. But don't go in until I give a sign."

Ivypaw nodded, and Raggedflame and Erol walked into the den right as Fierystar threw a kit into the floor, breaking it's back. He pushed the kit aside, letting it die slowly and painfully. Erol watched horrified, and in his anger and sorrow, he leaped at Fierystar.

::---::

Sunnyblade yowled in grief as her third kit was killed. Then, she saw Erol leap at Fierystar.

"No!"

Fierystar snarled, and flipped Erol around she Fierystar was on top. Fierystar swiped at Erol's head, with unsheathed claws, making long cuts. Erol growled and kicked out with his back feet, making a deep cut in Fierystar's underbelly. Fierystar was thrown off of Erol, but quickly leaped back up and dug his teeth into Erol's shoulder. Erol yowled, and ripped away from Fierystar, tearing away his own flesh. Erol winced, and his leg dropped under him. Fierystar took this chance, and rammed his shoulder into Erol's head. Erol slid across the ground and hit the Nursery wall with a deep thud, and he didn't get up. Fierystar looked satisfied, though further angered, and turned back to Sunnyblade. Her face was wet with tears.

"Please stop! Please!"

Fierystar bared his teeth, and took another of Sunnyblade's kits. He bit into the kit's neck and tore at it, ending it quickly. Sunnyblade licked her last kit comfortingly. She didn't want to open her eyes to see Erol hurt and the torn bodies of her kits. Then, Sunnyblade felt her last kit pulled away from her. There was a shriek of pain, and Sunnyblade buried her head in her paws, and heard Fierystar exit the den, his paws thudding loudly on the Nursery floor. Sunnyblade heard Erol groan, but didn't respond, and continued to mourn for her kits.

The Need to Give Effort(BlackClan POV)-Part 2

It had been half a moon since Sunnyblade was paired up with Raggedflame. Nothing had really happened, at least that's all Sunnyblade knew. She was laying in the sun, basking, and opened one eye to see Windingflame padding towards her. Windingflame was the medicine cat of BlackClan, and he was actually pretty nice. The tom nodded at her and sat down.

"How have you been?"

Sunnyblade shrugged.

"Better as a loner. But good here as long as Erol is here."

Windingflame nodded thoughtfully.

"I noticed well... you're expecting kits..."

Sunnyblade's eyes widened, but she quickly re-composed herself, and nodded.Windingflame cleared his throat and continued.

"Go tell Fierystar, then come back to my den so I can give you some herbs."

Sunnyblade nodded and got up, slightly hesitant, and padded to Fierystar's den. She mewed quietly, and heard Fierystar tell her to come in. She padded into the shady den, and looked at Fierystar. He was eying her thoughtfully, and flicked his tail for her to speak. She took a breath and stumbled upon her words.

"Well.... Windingflame... Umm... He told me I was expecting kits..."

Fierystar's eyes brightened.

"Excellent... Go join the Nursery."

A sinister smile came upon Fierystar's face, and she took his words as a dismissal. She padded out of the den, and saw Erol. She trotted over to him.

"Hey..."

She muttered in a small voice uneasily. Erol looked at her confused.

"Hey to you to. What's up?"

Sunnyblade shuffled her paws.

"Well I'm expecting kits..."

Erol laughed.

"That's... good?"

Sunnyblade shrugged.

"I should tell Raggedflame. Bye."

Erol nodded, and Sunnyblade padded off to the warriors den. She saw Raggedflame and padded up to him. He looked up from his sleep, and smiled.

"Hey."

Sunnyblade responded, then got to the point.

"I'm expecting kits."

Raggedflame smiled.

"Is that good or bad?"

Sunnyblade sighed.

"I don't know. But I'm moving to the Nursery."

Raggedflame nodded.

"I'll get your nest set up."

He smiled, then got up and padded out of the den. Sunnyblade stifled a groan and flopped down in her nest in the warriors den. Why did I have to spend half of my life here...? Our family was perfect... Bluepaw, Mossyclaw, Mistypaw, Icycurrent and Rosedawn. We were perfectly fine as loners.... So why did this have to happen...?

The Need to Give Effort(BlackClan POV)-Part 1

Sunnyblade stared blankly at the piece of prey sitting in front of her. She wasn't hungry, and hadn't been for a while. By a while, it meant a few sunrises. She couldn't remember the last piece of prey she had. No one seemed to care about her ribs starting to show, except two cats. Mossyclaw and Erol. Erol had always made sure to bring her a piece of prey, to coax her to eat, but she never did. She usually noticed the worried expression on Erol's face whenever he looked at her, but she tried to ignore it. She wasn't happy, and she wished she would just grow weak enough that Fierystar would find her useless and kill her. Everyday she saw kits being killed for being too weak or too happy. They had to be cold and strong.

Sunnyblade looked up from the prey to see Erol padding towards her. He sat down in front of her, and nudged the prey closer.

"You have to eat. You're skinnier then any cat here. I know this isn't home, but for now you have to accept it. I'll get you out of here soon. We'll both get out of here."

His voice was soft and was hypnotizing. Sunnyblade just shrugged, then stiffened when she saw Fierystar padding over to her. He hissed at her.

"Do you think I have not noticed your growing weakness!? Did you think you could slowly starve yourself to die?! Well, I will not permit that. If you think you can be useless as a warrior, think again. You can be useful for providing kits into our clan."

Sunnyblade's eyes widened. She had seen the Queen's in BlackClan. They were used, and had kits much too often. They were treated with rarely any respect, and once their kits were born, they were forced to have more kits. She shook at the thought, then saw Erol bristle.

"No! She can't be used for that!"

Fierystar snarled, and she saw his claws unsheathe.

"She will do as I say. Or do you want me to kill her?"

Erol shook with anger, but didn't say anything else, except look away. Fierystar nodded in approval, and spoke to Sunnyblade again.

"Good. Then that will be your new duty. Come to my den later and we'll speak more, and get you slightly acquainted with who will be the father of your new kits."

Fierystar smirked, and his eyes glinted before he padded away. Sunnyblade shook with fear and closed her eyes. She felt her paws weak beneath her, and felt like she was about to collapse, but then she heard Erol speak.

"I-i'm sorry Sunnyblade. I would help if I could, but it is not my destiny to battle Fierystar right now. Please eat. You'll need your strength. And I'll be beside you every step of the way."

She opened her eyes to stare into the amber depths of Erol's eyes. She bent down and took a bite out of the prey, and fought to swallow...

::---::

Sunnyblade padded to Fierystar's den. She had finished the prey, and had watched Erol leave for a hunting patrol, before going to see Fierystar. She paused at the entrance, slightly shaking before padding in. She saw Fierystar sitting in the center of the den, his gray tail lightly wrapped around his paws. His eyes lit up when he saw Sunnyblade, and a smile played at his lips.

"You're the daughter of Icycurrent. The strongest cat in BlackClan, before I came. I can see your power in your muscles when you take even the smallest step. Your sister is the same, though she is being a fine warrior currently. You have good bloodlines, except for your mother. But it seems you have not inherited much from her, lucky for me."

Sunnyblade shivered under Fierystar's gaze, and she felt very small in the predicament. Fierystar smirked.

"Don't be scared. It's a pretty simple process."

His tail uncurled from around his paws and flicked back and forth, and for the first time Sunnyblade noticed the tom sitting behind Fierystar. She stiffened, her eyes widening. The tom was a large tabby, who looked like he had red fur. He was one of the strongest cats in the clan, and Fierystar's new deputy after Flaringsun had joined LakeClan. She had seen him around, but had never really talked to him or had learned his name. Fierystar smiled.

"So I see you finally noticed him. I bet you have never actually known who he is. But meet my deputy, Raggedflame. This will be your mate. He is a powerful tom, and has good bloodlines, much like you. You two are a good match, and your kits will hopefully be well and strong."

Sunnyblade nodded, though her mind was reeling. She was going to be forced... to have kits, with a tom she didn't know or love. She felt her heart accelerate as Fierystar talked more about Raggedflame, describing his strengths and his parents. Then he turned to Raggedflame and told the tom about Sunnyblade. She didn't hear half of what the leader said. The only thing she was thinking about was how she wished that Erol could save her now as he had saved her and her siblings so long ago from Fierystar's wrath. 

     She soon noticed when Fierystar stopped talking to Raggedflame, and turned to Sunnyblade.

"I'll leave you two to talk, and only talk on your own for now. I'll be back when I hunt a bit."

Raggedflame nodded, and watched as Fierystar left the den. As soon as Fierystar had left, Sunnyblade noticed an immediate change in Raggedflame. His body relaxed, and his cold eyes turned softer. He glanced at Sunnyblade, and tilted his head.

"So, as Fierystar said. I'm Raggedflame."

Raggedflame smiled warmly, and Sunnyblade relaxed a bit. She looked away from Raggedflame's burning green eyes. She heard Raggedflame sigh.

"I'm not as bad as some of the cats you  could have been paired with. I actually have a heart. And I'm sorry for putting you in this situation, but everyone needs to put some effort in. I know you want to escape from BlackClan, but that won't ever happen if Fierystar doesn't trust you. If he trusts you, then he'll expand your boundaries and give you more freedom. It takes time."

Sunnyblade immediately warmed to the BlackClan deputy. He was kind and sincere, and was actually willing to help her.

"But, as I said. Trust comes with effort. And the only way you'll get Fierystar's trust is if you go along with this... I know you don't love me, and trust me. I know who you love. But it's the only way. I'll help you out along the way. Most tom's won't. They'll just abandon the she-cat until they are needed again."

Sunnyblade looked at Raggedflame stunned.

"T-thanks... I think."

She smiled shyly, which made Raggedflame smile.

"Fierystar doesn't know who I really am. he just knows me for my strengths and quick thinking. I put up an act in front of him, so don't be intimated by me if he's around."

Sunnyblade nodded a thanks, but she still felt skittish and exposed, and she knew Raggedflame sensed it.

"You also need to start eating. If you want to stay strong, you need to be fit. If you had stayed fit in the first place, you wouldn't have to do this. But now Fierystar probably won't let you go back to Warrior duties even if you were to become fit..."

Sunnyblade looked down, saddened. Raggedflame purred softly.

"You can go if you like. We'll talk later."

Sunnyblade nodded a thanks, and turned towards the entrance, then stopped when Raggedflame called her name.

"Sunnyblade, just so you know. I think you are a stunning she-cat, and I am glad I was paired with you. You deserve the best treatment, and only a few toms I know of would give you that."

Sunnyblade felt her ears and pelt grow hot with embarrassment. She muttered a thanks, and slipped out of the den before the handsome tom could say any more. She scanned the clearing for Mossyclaw, and saw her talking to Yellowpaw. Sunnyblade smiled, then spotted Erol returning from the hunting patrol. He dropped his prey on the fresh-kill pile, but kept a shrew and padded over to Sunnyblade. He dropped it in front of her.

"Thought you might be hungry. And, how did it go?"

Sunnyblade sighed, taking a bite from the shrew, her hunger from the past few days taking over. She ravenously ate the mouse before responding to Erol.

"Well, I'm "paired" with Raggedflame... the deputy. He's actually really nice."

Erol nodded.

"Well that's good... Do you know when?"

Sunnyblade shook her head.

"I'll tell you when though."

He nodded gratefully, before hearing a yowl from Fierystar. He turned around to face where Fierystar was standing.

"This has been long over due, and I would like to make Yellowpaw a warrior. He has been an apprentice for much to long. So now I shall name him by him warrior name. Yellowpaw, from this moment you shall be known as Yellowstripe! That is all."

Fierystar padded away, and Sunnyblade glanced to where the new warrior sat. She looked away, her mind sullen. Erol was sitting close enough to her that their pelts brushed, and Sunnyblade smiled. But then she saw Raggedflame pad over to her, his eyes showed it all. Sunnyblade flinched, and she heard Erol whisper in her ear.

"Don't worry...."

She got up, and padded to where he waited. He nodded at Sunnyblade to Fierystar's den. Fierystar was waiting for them, to talk some more. He nodded at them, before ushering them in.