Decisions

Dreamstar leaped onto the LakeRock.

"Cats of LakeClan! I hereby present Ridgefeather, a former medicine cat, to you as a new warrior. He will sit vigil tonight and we welcome our new warrior."

Dreamstar leaped down and pressed her nose to Ridgefeather's head. He licked her shoulder respectively, and Dreamstar took a step back.

"We are also making some new apprentices.

 We gather here today to welcome two kits on their way to becoming warriors. Crowkit, Featheredkit and Sweetkit, please step forward."

They stepped forward, their faces beaming.

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

Until you have received you warrior names, you will be known as Crowpaw, Featheredpaw, and Sweetpaw!

Grayshadow, Rainingblaze and... Rippleblaze, please step forward. Train your apprentices well.

Grayshadow, you shall mentor Sweetpaw.

Rainingblaze, you shall mentor Featheredpaw.

 

Rippleblaze, you shall mentor Crowpaw.

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

 "Sweetpaw! Featheredpaw! Crowpaw!"

Is the Verdict Here?

Ridgefeather took a deep breath. He only had half a moon before his warrior assessment. Would he pass? He tried to wipe his mind of his worries as he watched Ink and Oakkit pad to the base of the LakeRock. Dreamstar stood calmly on the rock, the weak Leaf-fall sun warming the clan slightly. He smiled as he saw Ink shaking slightly with excitement, while Oakkit just held his head high. The clan murmered, before Dreamstar silenced them with a flick of her tail.

"We gather here today to welcome two kits on their way to becoming warriors. Oakkit and Ink, please step forward."

They both stepped forward, their faces beaming. Maple sat down next to Ridgefeather, smiling.

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

Until you have received you warrior names, you will be known as Oakpaw and Ink!

Frostysky and Fleckrain, please step forward. Train your apprentices well.

Frostysky, you shall mentor Ink.

Fleckrain, you shall mentor Oakpaw."

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

 "Oakpaw! Ink! Oakpaw! Ink! Oakpaw! Ink!"

Ridgefeather purred.

"They'll both be great warriors."


His gaze flickered over to where Nestflame sat. His pelt prickled, and he longed to be able to be the tom's friend again. Nestflame looked over at Ridgefeather, his gaze blank. A sinking feeling fell in Ridgefeather, and he looked down. Oh, Nestflame... I'm sorry I hurt you.

::---::  

A Half-Moon Later

Ridgefeather sat at the entrance of Dreamstar's den, waiting for her to come out. She padded out with Rippleblaze behind her. The scarred tom nodded at Ridgefeather, his scars fading slightly in colour. 

"Let's go. I want to see how you've progressed. I know that this isn't the path you may want to take. I've seen you staring at the medicine cat den. But you chose this path, and only StarClan can decide if you can go back to those duties. But then you will have to treat your family as any other clan mates. Which is hard to do when you love them."

Her gaze flickered to Rippleblaze who had padded away to speak with Frostysky.

"Do you want to go ahead with this?"

He nodded.

"Yes. I don't regret my time as a kitty-pet. I don't regret Maple having my kits. I never will."

She nodded, and padded into the leaf-bare forest, the chill wind pulling at her thick fur. Ridgefeather followed swiftly, quickly warming up from their run.

"First, I want you to hunt. Go to the river, or anywhere. I'll follow. I'll then get you to fight a warrior, and see how you fair."

He nodded, and padded away, sniffing the air. Hunting was his better talent, and he hadn't worked much on the hunting aspect. He quickly had plenty of prey, and brought it back to the training hollow. Dreamstar padded in soon after, nodding at his prey.

"That'll be good, especially with the on-coming months. This will not be an easy Leaf-Bare. Now, the warrior you are going to fight is Grayshadow. She's a good fighter, but not above what is hopefully, your level. She'll be here soon."

A few moments later Grayshadow padded into the clearing, her thick gray fur almost touching to ground. Dreamstar and her looked so alike, except Grayshadow was a lighter colour, and smaller because of her father, Soaringheart. 

Ridgefeather nodded, and they started circling. Ridgefeather then leaped. He twisted in the air, acting as if he was going to land behind her. She leaped forward, and he threw his weight down, landing directly on her back. Ridgefeather flipped Grayshadow over, and she relaxed. He narrowed his eyes, and in his one second of indecision she pushed up with her back legs, throwing him off. He stumbled on the frost covered ground, sizing her up.

Grayshadow is a lean cat. Agile, yet sturdy. Her shoulders were her widest points, and her legs were long and nimble. Her tail seemed to be longer than her body, and waved across the ground in expectancy. She didn't seem to have many weak stops, but then he noticed how she held her head lower, protecting her chest. Why is she covering her chest?

He lowered himself to the ground, then leaped forward, rearing up on his hind legs, and crashing down. She rolled out of the way, and while he was on the ground, she went up on her back legs as he just did.  Instead of avoiding her attack, as she had did, he leaped into it. He slammed his head into her stomach, causing her to fall backward. She gasped for breath, shaking her head. She shook slightly, and Ridgefeather stood stock still, his eyes wide in alarm. Dreamstar yowled.

"I have seen enough!"

She quickly padded to her kit, and licked her head. She then turned to Ridgefeather.

"How did you know that her chest was a weak spot?"

He stuttered.

"I-i noticed her protecting it with her head. She was trying to defend it."

Dreamstar nodded slowly.

"When she was a kit, her and a few other cats, and me, were stolen by BlackClan. I lost a life, and she was taken elsewhere. They tortured her, and she almost died. She's lucky to be alive, and from then on her chest has always been a weak spot. It makes her have trouble breathing, because her sickness affected her lungs and heart. She's still as strong as any other cat, she just needs to be careful."

He nodded.

"I never knew..."

Dreamstar nodded.

"We'll go back to camp now. I'll help you with the prey."

They picked up the prey, and padded back to camp with Grayshadow slightly wheezing beside them. When they got back, she padded to Nestflame's den to get some juniper berries to help her breathe better. Ridgefeather brought some prey to Strongspirit and her kits, and then padded over to Maple, curling up beside her in the Warriors Den. He knew Dreamstar would call a clan meeting closer to Sun-Down to announce whether he could stay. For now, he drifted off to sleep.

 

Where Loyalty Lies

Dreamstar glanced up as she saw Singe and Burst pad into the camp. Singe was carrying the lifeless body of Silhouettegaze. Her eye's widened, and she stared at the young warrior. Singe stare at the ground, tears flowing quietly. Dreamstar glanced at the Nursery. She saw Strongspirit look out of the den, and winced as the queen's eyes filled with disbelief. She wailed and ran over to her kit.

"Silhouettegaze! W-what happened?"

She looked up at Burst and Singe. Burst spoke.

"We were attacked. I couldn't see who it was, but we fought them off. But Silhouettegaze was too badly injured. She died before we even got close to the camp. We came straight back, so I don't know where the rest of the patrol is."

He spoke to Dreamstar, not Strongspirit who had her face buried in the she-cat's fur.

"This is the second warrior that has died this moon. The clan shall mourn for her, and honour her spirit. We'll prepare her for vigil."

Nestflame padded up to Silhouettegaze and Singe. He gave Strongspirit some poppy seeds and thyme. She licked them up self-consciously. Singe stared at the herbs, and licked them up, but only because Nestflame was watching carefully. Crowkit, Featheredkit and Sweetkit watched from the den, their eyes wide as they watched their mother grieve. Silhouettegaze's siblings padded up to Strongspirit, and lied down next to her. Wanderpath licked her mother's ear.

"She's with Markstar now."

Strongspirit nodded slightly, and Maple swept her three young kits away from the entrance back into the den.

"She'll be okay, come sleep. It's getting late."

The three kits nodded and curled close to Maple and her two kits.

The rest of the patrol soon came back, little bits of prey in their mouths. Ridgefeather saw Silhouettegaze then looked at Burst who was still standing near by. This was the first time Burst had every looked directly at Burst. He gasped and stumbled backwards. Burst narrowed his eyes and turned his tail and walked away to the warriors den. Ridgefeather shook, and ran to Nestflame's den. He hesitated though, then took a deep breath and padded in. Nestflame was preparing herbs for Silhouettgaze's vigil. He looked up, his eyes flashing.

"What do you need Ridgefeather? I'm busy."

He took a shaky breath and spoke.

"I just saw Burst. His eyes. I've seen them before. Not just in the clan. Before that. I would never forget those eyes.  I-i think he was the one who attacked us. He tried to kill me."

Nestflame's head snapped up.

"How can you be sure? You could have been imagining stuff. You were mere tail lengths away from StarClan. Burst has been a loyal warrior ever since he came."

Ridgefeather looked shocked.

"Y-you don't trust me?"

Nestflame sighed, then his voice turned sharper.

"You left the clan Ridgefeather... You left your duties, and you broke the Warrior Code. So no, I don't trust you. How can I? I want things to be like they used to. I miss you. Like I miss Rosedawn. I lost you and her. How do you think that makes me feel as a mentor and a friend? You both had kits. It's not fair. I've always wanted to be a medicine cat, it was my dream. I don't want any other life. But sometimes, I wish I could fall in love. It's not fair how you both got off the hook when you broke the Warrior Code. If you can break the Code, then why can't any cat?"

Ridgefeather looked away.

"I never wanted-"

Nestflame shook his head.

"I'm busy. I have a clan to look after, as you saw a warrior just died. The last time I checked you had kits to go and see."

Nestflame flicked his tail and turned away, not wanting Ridgefeather to see the deep sorrow that was in his eyes. Ridgefeather shook slightly, and started to pad out. He just caught the quiet whisper of Nestflame.

"Though, I'm proud of you Ridgefeather. You've turned into a fine cat, and you make a good father."

The warrior in training didn't respond as he padded across the clearing. Licking Silhoettegaze's pelt before he went to the Nursery.

Killing An Innocent

Dreamstar shivered and opened her eyes, seeing the ground outside sparkling with frost. She got up with stiff legs, and padded out. Grin was already assembling patrols. She nodded.

"Grin,"

She flicked her tail at Burst. Half a moon ago he had come back to camp, saying a badger had killed Ebonywing. She had believed him because of the claw marks on himself. Little did she know that he had inflicted them on himself.

"Send Burst out on a hunting patrol. He needs to get out and live again."

She felt sorry for the tom. She knew how much it hurt to lose a mate. Grin nodded, and padded up to Burst.

"Why don't you lead a hunting patrol? Take Fellwave, Wrencall, Ridgefeather and Silhouettegaze and Singe. We need some more prey."

Burst's eyes lit up with something Grin didn't recognize. Burst stood up, and nodded.

"Sure."

Grin nodded and called the other five cats. Singe padded over warily, and looked at Burst. They had barely spoken to each other since Ebonywing had been killed. Now Burst smiled at Singe threateningly. They then padded out of camp. Once they were a little ways away, Burst spoke.

"Fellwave, Wrencall and Ridgefeather, why don't you head towards the lake, see if there is any prey there. Silhouettegaze, Singe and I will stay in the forest."

Burst kept his eyes on Singe the whole time, smiling slightly. Fellwave nodded and led his group away. Burst nodded then padded in the opposite direction. He stopped in a small clearing, and turned around, gazing at Singe who was perfectly still. Singe recognized the small clearing, and narrowed his eyes.

"Burst, what are you doi-"

Before he could finish Burst leaped at Silhouettegaze, placing his paw firmly on her throat. Her eyes were wide and she struggled for enough air.

"Now you'll feel my pain! Don't think I haven't noticed Silhouettegaze and you! Now you'll know what it feels like to lose your entire being. How it feels to not be able to help, to be a bystander in the death of the one you love. To not have control over life and death!"

Burst snarled, his eyes glowing red, his claws starting to dig into her throat. Singe stared, gaping.

"You make one step forward, and she dies in a split second. But maybe that's better than dying slowly."

Burst snarled, and Singe lowered his head.

"Let her go... This is between you and I. You don't have to bring her into this."

Burst snarled, his anger rising.

"Then why did you bring Ebonywing into it!? WHY DID SHE HAVE TO DIE?!"

He looked down at Silhouettegaze, her eyes wide in terror. He closed his eyes, and thought he heard a whisper.

"Burst, killing isn't the answer. Your anger is at Singe, not an innocent cat..."

But he brushed the sound off, taking it as the wind, then he looked back at Singe.

"She dies, now."

Coming Back

Ridgefeather stood by the lake. He hadn't been here for so long. He waded into the frigid water, gasping at the cold. He padded back out, shaking his pelt out. Maple and the kits were by the camp, and he ran back to them. Maple looked over her shoulder, and Ridgefeather breathed in deeply. He hadn't been here since he left to get his full name. His pelt twitched with anxiety, then they padded towards the entrance. He stopped when a black and white cat walked out. Ridgefeather stood rigid as the cat looked up. His eyes going from shock to sorrow, to a bit of anger and remorse.

"Ridgefeather."

Nestflame spoke lowly, his eyes flickering over Maple and the two kits.

"Why are you here?"

He narrowed his eyes slightly.

"Nestflame. I... we... Please forgive me."

He hung his head low, and Nestflame seemed surprised.

"I know what I've done is wrong. But I can't change the past, and I'm not sure I'd want to. When I became a medicine cat, I knew what my path was. I never wanted a mate, all I wanted to do was serve my clan. But maybe StarClan had a different plan for me. And maybe this was it."

He beckoned for Maple, Ink and Oakkit to come forward. The two kits gazed up at Nestflame, wondering who he was.

"We want to join the clan. Our two-leg nest was destroyed in a fire. In only want Maple and my kits to be safe. Leaf-bare is coming, and we can't survive without a clan. If I have to leave, then I will for their safety. I'll do whatever it takes."

Nestflame looked at the two kits.

"Come inside. We'll talk to Dreamstar."

Maple looked at Ridgefeather quickly, before padding in, the kits following. He took a deep breath, before he followed them in too.

When Ridgefeather walked in, he glanced at everything. The camp hadn't changed much, and he recognized most of the cats. He saw Strongspirit look up from the Nursery entrance, three kits, probably 4 moons old, playing near her. Her eyes went wide as she saw the old medicine cat. Grief still hung in the back of her eyes from Markstar's death, but the birth of her kits had helped take her mind off it. Cats stared at Ridgefeather, their hackles rising. He still wore his collar, and it jingled quietly. Maple too had a collar, so how would they judge him?

Dreamstar's den couldn't come soon enough, and they slipped inside. Nestflame dipped his head to Dreamstar and Rippleblaze. Rippleblaze was laying down, his scars finally starting to heal and turn more gray than pink. Ridgefeather stifled a gasp as he saw Rippleblaze. What had happened? Dreamstar stood up quickly, surveying the newcomers. Her eyes located Ridgefeather, and she narrowed her eyes.

"Ridgefeather...?"

He lowered his head, suddenly wishing he had no collar. Nestflame then spoke.

"Yes. It told you most of what happened. But I never told you about them."

He flicked his tail at Maple, Ink and Oakkit. Dreamstar nodded.

"What are your names?"

Maple cleared her throat.

"My name is Maple, and these are my kits. Ink-"

She looked at her black kit who had piercing blue eyes. Then she looked at the red tom who looked more like Ridgefeather.

"And... Oakkit."

Dreamstar narrowed her eyes then looked at Ridgefeather, her eyes seeming to linger on the collar much too long.

"Who are these cats?"

Ridgefeather looked away.

"I asked you a question. As your leader-"

Ridgefeather then looked at her.

"Currently, I don't have a clan. My life was one of a kitty-pet. I don't remember ever seeing or hearing a patrol looking for me. I know you aren't to blame for that. But Markstar was growing sick. Your deputy could have sent patrols out. My home is with them."

He moved close to Maple, his pelt brushing hers. Dreamstar's eyes narrowed even more.

"So, these are your kits? What happened to being a medicine cat? Nestflame never wanted to take on another apprentice, as he still had hope Rosedawn would come back. I asked him to, because I saw how much you loved it. You're also my kin Ridgefeather. I expected better of you."

Ridgefeather flinched.

"I can leave. I just want them to be safe. Our nest was burned down, and the two-leg died. We have no where to go. But my mate and kits have done nothing wrong to not be accepted. I'll leave if that means they can stay."

Maple shot Ridgefeather a quick despairing look. Dreamstar studied Ridgefeather carefully.

"What would you do here? Would you be able to be a medicine cat? Would you want to? You've never had warrior training. The clan would look down on you. Rosedawn was accepted by StarClan again because she had to complete something. In the end her sorrow was too much. She wanted too much. She wanted to be able to associate with her kits as a mother, not just another clanmate. Icycurrent's sorrow through her off too. He loved her, and was depressed when she turned him away. It drove her mad and she left."

He sighed.

"I can learn. If not, then I'll leave. And you'll never see me again. I swear."

Dreamstar lifted her head.

"I'll give you 1 moon and a half to try to get to a newly made warrior level. Maple can train with you, but she can stay no matter what. If you can't do that, then you must leave. But you must still go on patrols and hunt. You'll have to fit battle training in."

Ridgefeather felt himself tremble. So short a time. It took apprentices 6 moons or more to become a warrior... But if he wanted to stay he would have to try as hard as he could. He nodded, and Dreamstar dismissed them. He looked at Nestflame quickly who was looking at the ground. He looked weighed down with sorrow and longing, and Ridgefeather felt a pain in his heart.

As Ridgefeather walked into the clearing the clan gave him suspicious glares. He stayed close to Maple's side, their kits looking at all the cats in front of them. Hopefully they'll be treated good. They deserve a good life. They padded to the nursery, where Strongspirit nodded slightly.

"Welcome back."

Ridgefeather dipped his head slightly.

"Is it okay if Maple, Oakkit and Ink stay here?"

She nodded.

"Of course. Any Queen and kits are welcome. You will be too Ridgefeather. Give them time. "

Ridgefeather sighed and nodded, letting Maple get settled in. He looked back and saw Strongspirit's three kits gathering around Ink and Oakkit. His kits were older, and a bit bigger. Ink boasted and held his head high. Ridgefeather shook his head and then kept his head low as he stood in the clearing. Where did he go? He glanced at the medicine cat's den, and shook himself out. He would never be allowed to sleep in there.  He heard fast pawsteps coming toward him then saw Coastpebble looking relieved.

"Ridgefeather. It's you. It's really you. The clan said you were here, but I wasn't sure."

She nuzzled his cheek but he didn't move. Coastpebble had aged in the year he had been gone. Gray hairs had come around her muzzle. The stress. The worry and sorrow. It got to her. His pelt prickled. He had to stay now. He couldn't let his mother get any worse. Maple would be fine without him. She would be upset, but she would survive. But Coastpebble, would she? She had lost her mate and son on the same day. Ridgefeather licked her cheek finally.

"Come. You can have a nest beside me."

Ridgefeather nodded and crept into the warriors den. He had only been in here to treat any cats. Now this would be where he would sleep. The sun was still up, but Ridgefeather decided to rest. He stopped though. My collar. He backed out of the den and went back to the Nursery. Maple looked up. Strongspirit had got them settled in. He smiled.

"Our collars. We need to get rid of them, or the clan will never accept us."

Slight pain flashed through her eyes, but she nodded. Ridgefeather bent down and took her collar in between his teeth. He ground it in between his teeth until he felt it starting to tear. He gave it one last swift bite and it felt off with a muffled clatter. Then he bent down and let Maple bite his off. He licked her cheek quickly, and gave the two sleeping kits swift licks too.

"I'll be back later."

She nodded, and he bounded away back to the Warriors Den.

Love All Over Again

Ridgefeather woke with a start. His throat and lungs burned, and the air was thick with smoke. He coughed, prodding Maple.

"Get up! We have to leave, now!"

Maple opened her eyes, and immediately shut them as the smoke stung them. Ridgefeather quickly nudged his two kits awake. They were five moons old now, and they mewled in pain. He grabbed Ink, and Maple blindly grabbed Oakkit. Ridgefeather bolted for an exit, any exit. He gasped. The window was open a smidge. He put Ink down, and stuck his head through the gab, pushing up with his shoulders. The fresh Fall air filled his burning lungs. He breathed in deeply, pushing up as hard as he could. The window moved enough for the kits and Maple to get out, but Ridgefeather's shoulders were too broad. In the time he had been a kitty-pet, he had grown more, becoming more like his father in shape.

Maple leaped up to the window, squeezing through carefully with Oakkit. He then handed her Ink. She looked back at Ridgefeather with worry. His ears flickered backwards, as his mind shot to the twoleg. He sighed, and bolted up the stairs. He could feel the heat of flames, and he could barely breathe. He was stopped at the top by roaring fire. He shook his head, ears flat against him.

"No..."

He almost breathed the word, before bolting back down the stairs. He could hear the fire getting more intense, and the wail of sirens far in the distance. He struggled against the window frame, pushing with all his might, desperate to get away from the heat. He saw Maple leap up onto the fence, she looked back. Now he couldn't take it. He growled, and lunged upwards. The window moved with a huge grunt, and he sprang free. He leaped up beside Maple, taking Ink in his jaws, and running away. Maple followed him. She didn't know where he was going, but she trusted him.


Ridgefeather breathed heavily as he came to a stop by a river with many pebbles. He breathed in the clean scent, and setting Ink down, whose eyes were as wide as the moon, he turned to Maple.

"The two-leg... I was too late."

Maple dipped her head, trying to not linger on her sadness.

"Where are we?"

They were at the mouth of a huge cave.

"The MoonCave. It'll be safe until we figure out where to go."

He bent down by the river, taking in large gulps of water. He nudged the two kits forward with his tail, and they bent down too, before crawling into the shallow water, breathing sighs of relief as they washed away the smokey smell. He shook his head in exasperation.

"You're going to be cold now. Come on."

The kits clambered out, shivering in the cool air. He nudged them into the cave, padding beside Maple.

"Stay here. I'll get some prey and moss."

He whispered in her ear, giving her a swift lick. Then he quickly padded out, tuning in on the small forest. He could see the fire dying down in the distance, but he knew there would be nothing left for them.


He quickly came back with enough prey for them all, and fresh moss for bedding. The cave wasn't overly warm, but they could use some of the rabbit's fur to help warm them. Maple layed down, Ink and Oakkit flopping down beside her, closing their eyes as sleep came over them. Not much time had passed since they had fled their home, but the moon was already falling.

"Where are we going to stay Ridgefeather? We can't stay here."

Ridgefeather closed his eyes.

"I don't know where."

She sighed.

"What about your clan?"

Ridgefeather went stock still.

"T-they wouldn't accept me. I broke the warrior code. I took a mate, had kits, and became a kitty-pet. Three broken rules, especially for a medicine cat!"

She looked at him sorrowfully.

"If they love you, they'll take you back."

He shook his head.

"Nestflame hates me... My mother must think I'm dead, as I doubt Nestflame said anything about me. Did you know this was where I found my father, dead? This is a sacred place to my clan, and someone murdered my father, and put him here. It was a threat. Then, they almost killed me. I saw Starclan, my ancestors. They were right there. I saw my father."

Ridgefeather choked on his words, tears filling his eyes. He shook his head.

"I couldn't go back..."

Maple sighed, then glared at him.

"Then I'll be going by myself. It's the safest place to raise our kits Ridgefeather... I lost my home. It was your home too, but you still have a home to go back to. I don't. I'm leaving at Sun-high, whether you're coming or not. I'll find my way there somehow."

Ridgefeather looked taken aback.

"M-maple..."

She shook her head, then closed her eyes, showing the subject was over and she had made up her mind. Ridgefeather's mind shot back to when he first met her. They had both still been young, only 4 seasons old. She had been inquisitive of him. Still young. They both had been. He had just received his full name, and now. Now he had kits. He had a mate, and he had lived as a kitty-pet for another 4 seasons.

He padded up to her, and licked her cheek gently, before wrapping himself around her, his tail covering the two kits by her stomach. She looked up at him, loving him all over again. She put her head on his paws, and he laid his head over her shoulders, sighing deeply.

::---::

When they woke up again, the sun was already high in the sky. Ridgefeather nodded at Maple, and they got Oakkit and Ink up. The two kits yawned, suddenly remembering what had happened. Their tails dropped, and they looked at their parents.

"It'll be okay. We have a home to go to."

He glanced at Maple, and smiled slightly. He was scared to go back. How would they accept him? What would he be? He couldn't be a medicine cat, but could he be a warrior? He sighed, and they started to head out.

::---::

Earlier that night...

Burst padded close beside Ebonywing, nuzzling her gently from time to time. He loved her so much, he wasn't sure how his heart was able to contain it all. He was supposed to be evil, but how could he be when Ebonywing was making him nice?

"I love you..."

He whispered gently into her ear, and she purred in content. They sat down, leaning against each other, happy to know that the other was beside them. Burst stood up in a split second, his ears pinned back in anger. He spun around, waving his tail side to side as Singe and Flash padded out of the bushes. Singe's eyes were full of malice, his teeth bared in a snarl. Flash looked at him, sending him a message. I'm sorry brother. I tried to stop him. Explain that we could carry out the plan no matter what happened. But he wouldn't stop. Burst stiffened, and signaled to Ebonywing for her to get behind him. He bared his teeth, and Singe sneered.

"Lovely night, isn't it brother?"

His eyes shot to Ebonywing. How could Burst openly show his love for her? They had a mission. Singe felt himself more loyal to it, fighting his feelings for Silhouettegaze, forcing himself not to show them when others were around. He was loyal in that way. But Burst was appointed the leader of this mission. But he had strayed off track, seeming to have forgotten why they were here. In truth, Singe was envious of Burst's open love for Ebonywing. He was envious of Burst's power of leadership, and of how Burst was allowed to sow emotion for the cat he loved no problem. With no guilt. But when Singe did, his mind shot to the mission.

Burst glared at Singe.

"Why are you here?"

Singe smirked.

"Just wondering if you remembered the mission, brother. We were not here to... fraternize... with the cats we came to destroy."

Burst snarled, his fur standing on end.

"Speak for yourself!"

The two brothers were head to head, each fighting for the dominance they knew they each deserved. Flash stood up, his eyes shifting to Ebonywing. 

"She wasn't in the plan Burst. If you stop protecting her right now, she won't have to die."

At that, Burst lashed out with full force. His claws swiped down Singe's face, leaving deep marks. Burst attacked again, pinning Singe down. But Singe still remained calm.

"Don't you dare... hurt her! Or I will rip you to shreds, even if you are my blood."

Singe smiled.

"Oh, I wasn't planning on getting my paws dirty."

He pushed Burst away, and he stumbled backwards. Singe snarled.

"I had a whole different plan in mind...-"

Burst saw what was coming, and his eyes widened.

"Don't you dare!"

Singe continued.

"-Break."

A huge convulsion went through Burst. He spun around to face Ebonywing, his eyes flashing to red.

"Run! Run away from me!"

Ebonywing took a step backwards, tripping. Burst snarled, his voice filled with fear and worry.

"RUN!"

She spun around, kicking up leaves as she went. He crouched on the ground, pain going through him. A viscous snarl that was not his own, ripped through him. He stood up, his eyes blood red. He then took off after Ebonywing. He was faster then her, and quickly caught up. He leaped at her, tackling her down. But it wasn't his mind that was taking over. The mind of Burst was fighting against the walls in any way he could, but his evil side had a tight lock on him. Ebonywing looked up at Burst, who was currently Break. She smiled sadly.

"I trust you Burst. And I'll love you forever. Don't you forget that. I will always be yours."

Break's eyes seemed to shift quickly to blue. He yowled into the sky as his two sides fought for control. Through it all, both sides loved her with the same deep pang. But his evil side was trained to kill. He yowled in grief again, not able to control himself. He bit down deeply into her neck, ending her life in the same second he attacked. She was dead right away, no pain had went through her. He stumbled backwards. His eyes blue again. He sputtered, and he spit out the blood in his mouth. Burst stared horrified at Ebonywing's lifeless body. 

"No... No. NO!"

But he had killed her. Her blood pooled around her, and the scent of death lingered. He nuzzled her gently, staining himself red.

"Please no... Ebonywing, I love you. No. What have I done?"

He wailed loudly into the sky, his grief turning him cold. Silent tears rolled down his face as he pulled her away from the blood. He groomed her gently, cleaning off the blood until her fur was as black as ever, and her paws were pure white. He closed his eyes, and dug a hole big enough to fit her. He then gently lifted her into it, licking her swiftly on the cheek one last time. He choked on his tears, and looked away, then covered the hole quickly. He stood there for a long time, wracked in grief. Around him were rose bushes, and he picked one, careful of the thorns. He then layed down on her grave, the rose between his paws. His eyes were closed tightly as tears ran down his face.

"I'm so sorry. This should have never happened. I'll avenge your death. I'll get Singe back."

He lay there for the rest of the nights, unable to sleep. He didn't know it, but Ebonywing's spirit lay with him that night too.

Wounds That Won't Heal

Dreamstar padded along the shore line. It had been 5 moons since Bluegaze and her had gone looking for Rippleblaze. The clan must be worried. There were ceremonies to be held, and Dreamstar had finally given in and accepted that Rippleblaze must gone forever. No, she would never accept that he may be dead. If he was dead, he would have told her from StarClan. She would still have hope that he could continue his life.
Bluegaze padded beside Dreamstar, his tail hanging low. He felt Dreamstar stop beside him.

"Who are you?"

Bluegaze tried to use his powers, though they were fading. He saw through Dreamstar's eyes a black she-cat with striking almost-white eyes. Her eyes flickered, and she took a step back cautiously, not answering Dreamstar. In her mouth she held a wad of moss, and she looked behind her, about to run. Bluegaze hissed, his eyes narrowed.

"Just answer the question! We don't mean any harm to a loner!"

Dreamstar shot Bluegaze a look, and when she looked back the black she-cat was gone. Dreamstar ran in pursuit. This she-cat seemed to be hiding something. Bluegaze followed close behind, using Dreamstar's scent to guide him through the unknown territory.

::---::

Sola ran on. Her fur bristled. Who were these cats? Did they really mean no harm, if they were chasing her? She couldn't lead them to Rippleblaze. He was still weak, not able to run yet. Would he ever be able to run again? She shook her head. She had to have faith that he would get better. 

She yowled as she felt large paws grip her. She was thrown down and the two cats went tumbling together until a tree stopped them. Sola got herself out of the grip and hissed. The moss she had in her mouth was covered in mud and dirt. She glared at Dreamstar, her ears flat.

"What do you want!?"

Dreamstar narrowed her eyes.

"I only wanted to know who you were!"

Sola glared.

"You don't come from here, so it is not your right to be asking questions when you are in my territory!"

Bluegaze padded up beside Dreamstar.

"Well you do a pretty lousy job of protecting it. Running away from intruders!"

Sola took a second glance at Bluegaze, her eyes wide.

"You're blind!"

Bluegaze rolled his eyes.

"Thanks for the information. I always wondered why I couldn't see a thing! But if you think me being blind makes me any weaker than you... Well then I pity your close-mindedness!"

Dreamstar growled in a low voice.

"Bluegaze! Enough!"

Sola's mind buzzed. Bluegaze... A clan name. Rippleblaze told me some of the cats he remembered from his clan. But yet, he couldn't remember his mate's name. Though he said she had faded yellow eyes... Sola stumbled back a step when Dreamstar looked at her again. Those eyes... Could this be his mate? Sola shook her head. What could she say? Did she want to give away the whereabouts of the cat she had grown so close too? Yes. That would be the right thing to do. She sighed, and lowering her head, spoke.

"Please... follow me. There's something you should see."

With that she turned around and padded off to where Rippleblaze lay hidden. Once he had been able to walk short distances she had slowly moved where they had lived farther into the small forest.

Dreamstar and Bluegaze followed wearily, walking cautiously across the forest floor. Sola stopped beside a bush with moss tendrils covering a small entrance. She sighed, and looking at the entrance with sorrow, swept it aside with her tail. Dreamstar stopped dead at the sight she saw. She was at a lack for air, and could barely stand. There, in a small nest was the cat she had been looking for. He was hardly recognizable with still-healing scars running along the length of his body and head. He was sprawled out in a deep sleep. His back hind leg was the worst. Long teeth mark scars covered it all. The skin was still pink and raw, and patches of fur grew randomly on it. His face had three long scars right across the muzzle, and he was skinny. Dreamstar finally collapsed, and tried to regain her breath.

When she finally did she threw an accusing look at Sola.

"What... did you do to him!"

Though Dreamstar knew very well that those scars could not be from a cat, she needed to blame someone, something! Sola's eyes widened.

"What do you mean "What did I do"!? I saved his life! He nearly drowned, then a dog tore him apart. His other back leg and one front leg were broken. And the leg that wasn't broken was sprained. As you can see, his one back leg was totally destroyed! I'm lucky I was able to even keep it on! He broke two ribs and nearly lost an eye. Actually, for about a moon he could've died any second! He came down with Green Cough in the middle of Green leaf! His wounds were filled with infection. You're lucky he's able to walk, even see still! Though his sight is blurry. Actually, you're lucky he's alive."

Sola turned angrily into the den, letting the moss fall back over. Dreamstar shook with sorrow. Would this still be Rippleblaze even? Did he remember anything? Bluegaze licked her ear gently.

"It'll be okay. Just stay out for a second. I'll get her to wake him up."

Dreamstar didn't repspond, just stared with a black expression as she had done when Rippleblaze had first disappeared. Bluegaze followed Sola into the den, his gaze setting into anger. He set his blank stare on Sola.

"Did you have to talk to her like that!"

His hiss was barely a whisper, and Sola looked at him shocked.

"She blamed me for doing this to him!"

Bluegaze rolled his eyes.

"Dreamstar just found out the cat she loves is alive. she's been looking for him for 3 moons! He's been missing for 5. And she finds him like this. She thought he was dead! You don't realize what she went through when he disappeared. She nearly died herself as she wouldn't eat. She's been through so much in her life. She lost two mates before him. One to murder, and then she chose him over her other mate, who died of age. She's lost almost all the kits she ever had except for three. She's been through so much... And if Rippleblaze died, she would have eventually died too."

Bluegaze shook his head.

"You're just an insensitive loner, aren't you? Just... wake him up. We'll go from there."

Bluegaze padded out again, and Sola stood rooted to the spot. She heard Bluegaze whispering softly to Dreamstar. She nosed Rippleblaze.

"Rippleblaze... get up. There's some cats here who want to see you."

Rippleblaze opened his eyes and shook his pelt out.

"W-who?"

He stopped and stared at the entrance as two cats walked in. Though his sight was blurry, he was able to recognize the two cats slightly. He recognized Bluegaze's sharp blue eyes, and was able to put a name on him immediately. But when he saw Dreamstar, his mind grew blank as he sought for a name. He knew he knew her. He could never forget her eyes. And when he looked at her his heart ached less, but why couldn't he find a name? 

Dreamstar stared at Rippleblaze. Recognition sparked in his eyes as soon as he saw Bluegaze. But with her, he seemed to stare at her blankly. He didn't seem to remember her. Dreamstar shook her head and lowered it.

"I-i can't do this. He doesn't remember me. Let's go Bluegaze. He'll be better off here."

Dreamstar turned around and Bluegaze looked at her shocked.

"But Dreamstar! Just give him time! You finally found hi-"

Dreamstar spun around and snarled.

"That's an order Bluegaze. I expect you to follow it."

Bluegaze cringed back, and Dreamstar shot one last despairing glance at Rippleblaze before leaving. Sola watched Dreamstar leave, her eyes astonished and filled with sorrow. Rippleblaze looked at her with confusion. She couldn't do this. Rippleblaze couldn't stay with her. He belonged with this she-cat, Dreamstar. She nuzzled Rippleblaze.

"Rippleblaze. Don't you recognize her? That was your mate. The one you've told me about. Dreamstar. Her name's Dreamstar. She loves you Rippleblaze."

Rippleblaze looked down.

"Dreamstar?"

Sola nodded.

"Your mate. The one you need to go back to."

Realization finally sparked in his eyes, and a low mournful wail rose from his mouth. He buried his head in his paws as memories flooded through his head. It was too much. Too much for him right now. Sola backed away, then quickly ran after Dreamstar and Bluegaze. She gasped, and yowled.

"Wait! Please come back! Bluegaze! Dreamstar!"

She listened for a response, but none came. She ran some more until she out of her small territory. 

"Bluegaze! Wait!"

Bluegaze stopped running after Dreamstar. He heard her snarl and turn around.

"Come on! We need to get back to the clan!"

Bluegaze shook his head.

"Can't we try again? It's getting dark anyways. We won't get anywhere tonight. Please."

Dreamstar shook her head, her tail finally dropping.

"I can't go back... I can't go back and see him. Knowing that he doesn't recognize me. That he recognizes you and that she-cat. But not me. It's too painful Bluegaze."

Bluegaze closed his eyes.

"He will Dreamstar. If you had stayed a bit longer, he would have. Trust me!"

Dreamstar sighed and started to pad back, her gaze blank. Sola had turned back also, running back to the small den where Rippleblaze was staring at his scars. She stopped in the entrance and watched him as he tried to disguise his horror at what he had become.

"They don't mean anything you know."

Rippleblaze's head snapped up.

"They don't change who you are."

Rippleblaze sighed.

"Ya. But how will I ever hunt again? Fight? I can't even see properly, let alone walk properly."

Sola lowered her gaze.

"Your ear's will adapt to your needs. And if you keep exercising, your leg could get a bit better too. But it'll never get fully better. You just need to be happy to be alive..."

Rippleblaze's ears flickered to the entrance, and his eyes soon followed. Bluegaze padded into the den, Dreamstar following behind. Her head was low, and she looked at Rippleblaze with comprehension. Will he remember me? But she need not to have asked twice, because as soon as Rippleblaze saw Dreamstar, his throat seized up and his whole body seemed to relax. His eyes seemed to shine, and they had filled with tears.

"D-dreamstar..."

He struggled to stand up, and Dreamstar tried not to wince as his scars came into full view. She stayed rooted to the spot, watching as he stood up shakily, his back leg resting against the ground. She felt a nudge from Bluegaze, and she took a few unsteady steps forward. She touched her nose gently to his cheek. Gently probing the new scars. He licked her ear, and whispered gently.

"Are we going home?"

Dreamstar's legs shook and she nodded. She looked at Sola who was sitting in a corner. She was looking in the other direction.

"Would you like to come too?"

Sola looked at Dreamstar, then shook her head.

"I belong here. This is my home."

She waved her tail, then flinched slightly, her eyes flickering quickly to Rippleblaze. Rippleblaze tried to look at her. But her pelt blended into the den's shadows, and all he saw were two white lights.

"Sola. You can come..."

She shook her head slightly.

"No. My life's here."

Rippleblaze looked at Dreamstar, then back at Sola.

"I'd like you to come. You saved my life."

She shook her head slowly.

"I'm sorry Rippleblaze. Maybe we'll meet again sometime. But you have to go back to your clan. You can spend the night here. I'll go get some prey."

With that she quickly bounded out of the den, her eyes starting to sting with tears. Rippleblaze sighed and layed back down. Dreamstar layed down beside him.

"I can't believe we found you. I... I thought you were dead. When you weren't behind me. I thought I lost you..."

Memories of Cloudriver's death came rushing back. Then memories of when Rippleblaze had disappeared. He licked her cheek.

"You would have never lost me..."

Right before Sola told him that the scars meant nothing. Picture is mine, DON'T STEAL

Memories

Erol watched BlackClan grow with happiness. The clan was slowly returning to the state a clan should be in. He watched Sunnyblade talking to Raggedflame. She had moved out of the Nursery 3 moons ago when their kits, Rapidpaw and Tinderpaw, had become apprentices. He started to pad towards his mate, nodding at Raggedflame. Raggedflame dipped his head and padded away. Erol smiled then looked at Sunnyblade.

"Life is pretty normal now."

Sunnyblade smiled.

"This is so much different then the BlackClan I remember, You've done a good job."

Sunnyblade seemed far away as she spoke, like she was somewhere else.

"Are you okay?"

She looked ay Erol again.

"I don't know... I always hated living in LakeClan cause I hated clan life. I was born a loner, and that's what I liked. Then when I was stolen... the old BlackClan was so different. Nothing like LakeClan. Though it was horrid, and Fierystar used me only for kits... I liked it there. I liked the thought of the danger and the difference. And now... BlackClan is becoming like LakeClan. I... it isn't me. My life isn't this."

Erol stood rooted to the spot. He didn't know what to think. He had done this all for her. Of course, it was StarClan's will, but if she had told him she didn't want it like this, he would've done it. He would have done anything for her. Finally he nosed her cheek.

"We can... We can leave. We can become loners."

Sunnyblade's eyes widened.

"You're the leader! You can't leave. And you're happy here. I wouldn't make you leave."

Erol looked down.

"How can I be happy knowing you aren't? I would do anything to make you happy. Even if it means handing my clan over to someone else."

Sunnyblade shook her head.

"We can't... We couldn't anyways. What about Rapidpaw and Tinderpaw? This is their home. The only home they've known. I couldn't take them away."

Erol sighed.

"They'd understand."

She shook her head.

"No... We're not leaving."

She looked at Erol, her eyes set. He sighed.

"Okay. I'm going to see how Icycurrent is doing. You want to come?"

Sunnyblade shook her head, her hard resolution dissolving. He licked her cheek before padding to the medicine cat den. Windingflame looked up then dipped his head. Erol smiled slightly before spotting the ginger tom and going over to him.

"Hey."

Icycurrent looked up and sighed, before resting his head back on his paws. He stared listlessly at the wall, his eyes dull. Erol closed his eyes, remembering what Sunnyblade had said, how her life isn't this. How it was the fierceness of the old BlackClan.

"Is this your life?"

Icycurrent looked at Erol, and Erol continued.

"This clan. This isn't your life. You grew up in a world of fierceness. It's who you are now. This, this clan is not enough for you. Sunnyblade said the same thing. She isn't happy here. She likes being a loner. She prefers a fierce and dangerous life over this one."

Icycurrent closed his eyes tightly.

"I miss it. I'm probably horrid to say that."

Erol shook his head.

"No. No you're not. I want to leave. With Sunnyblade. I want her to be happy, but she won't leave. If we leave, I want you to make this clan fierce. Make it a clan to be feared, but also make it be able to be an ally other clans can trust. Keep the clan happy, but have that dangerous spirit the clan has lost. Promise me that."

Icycurrent stayed still for a while, before nodding.

"Okay. I'll try."

Erol nodded.

"Now, to do that you can't be depressed. It's making you sick. You need to get better. Please try."

Before Icycurrent could answer Erol got up and padded away, his head low.

The Travels- Part 2

Bluegaze opened his eyes to darkness, as usual. He remembered being swept down the river, choking on water and Dreamstar's fur. He remember at one point he lost his hold on her scruff, and that's when he felt hopeless. Shortly after he blacked out. He struggled to his feet, feeling a warmness run over his left eye. He wiped his paw over his eyes and sniffed it. Blood. He must have hit his head. He sniffed the air, hoping to catch a scent of Dreamstar. He lowered his nose to the ground and soon heard what he was looking for. He bounded over to the sound, and pushed his muzzle into Dreamstar's shoulder. Her breaths were ragged, and she had small cuts too.He tried to nudge her awake.

"Dreamstar. Get up. Please..."

Dreamstar opened her eyes and immediately Bluegaze let his mind open. He saw through her eyes, an noticed Two-leg houses. Where were they? There were no two-leg houses within miles and miles of LakeClan. Bluegaze shivered at the thought.

"Are you okay?"

Dreamstar got to her feet and shook herself out.

"Y-ya. I just don't know where we are."

Bluegaze sighed.

"Why didn't you swim to shore?"

Dreamstar's gaze was blank and was looking at nothing.

"I... I thought I may be able to find Rippleblaze if I was swept down the river too. But the waters had gone down and slowed. So I don't know where he is."

Her tail drooped, and she sighed in defeat. He nudged her gently.

"We'll find him. We can split up, and I'll go look a bit upstream, and you can go downstream. I'll catch up with you."

::---::

Rippleblaze was sitting up for the first time in almost three moons. His sight was blurry, his back leg was numb, and it still hurt him to breathe, but he was alive. Sitting in front of him was a black she-cat. She had introduced herself as Sola. She had said her name meant Sun. She had helped Rippleblaze heal, though it was taking longer then she had expected as his whole body was wrecked. His ribs were almost healed, and so were his two broken legs. There was only his one leg. It had seemed to be almost torn to bits, and infection had soon come to it. He had grown severely weak as the infection made him become sick with Green-Cough. She had wrapped his leg in leaves and put sticks in to help support it. Even now he still didn't have full feeling in the leg. Sola didn't think he ever would, and would have to have a new leaf wrap put on everyday. His bones had been almost crushed in that leg, and they were still healing. 

Rippleblaze shook his head.

"You've never told me where I am."

He looked at the black she-cat, and she flashed her silver eyes at him before continuing with the herbs.

"Don't be stingy. I did save your life. But I don't know exactly what you want to know. This is where I have lived. That's all I know."

Rippleblaze let out a quiet groan before lying down again. Sitting had made him to tired with the effort. Sola narrowed her eyes.

"I said to stay sitting. Take some pressure off of your side!"

He rolled his eyes.

"I'm not a kit, and you aren't the boss of me. I just want to go home..."

Blurry memories ran through his head of a she-cat with amber eyes. He shook his head and looked at his surroundings. All he saw were blurred leaves that were slowly falling off the bushes. Rippleblaze narrowed his eyes.

"What season is it?" 

Sola spat out some leaves.

"Close to Leaf-fall."

Rippleblaze gasped.

"What!? How long have I been here for!"

The she-cat looked at Rippleblaze carefully.

"Almost 3 moons... Where do you come from...?"

Rippleblaze moaned.

"3 moons? I need to find my home..."

He closed his eyes then answered again.

"I come from a clan. LakeClan. My family is there. I... I don't remember fully how I got here, except I was trying to help... my... my mate? I don't remember..."

Sola tilted her head.

"LakeClan? I've heard of that. It's very, very far upstream. You've come a long way. I don't know the way though, and even if I did, you can't even walk yet. Let alone sit!"

He sighed.

"I just... ah never mind..."

He let himself drift off to sleep as Sola watched him with worried eyes.

::---::

Dreamstar had been away from the clan for almost 2 moons. Dreamstar lay by the river shore, staring into the endless flow of water.

"We should just go back...."

Bluegaze sighed.

"A little longer. We'll keep going downstream."

::---::

Ink sat by the window, staring out. Ridgefeather had just gone out, and taken Oakkit. They were just in the backyard. Ink groaned. Ever since they turned 3 moons old Ridgefeather had started to take them outside, and had been teaching them the hunting crouch.

Ink looked back at Maple who was watching him.

"When is it my turn??"

Maple purred.

"Soon. They're coming in right now, see."

She flicked her tail to the door where Oakkit came bounding in. Ink leaped down and raced to the door.

::---::

Crowkit leaped up into the air as a moth flew by him. He stared at it as it flew out of reach. His siblings and him were  only 2 moons, and he could already not wait to become an apprentice.

A New Life

Grin leaped until the LakeRock, calling the clan together.

"Since Dreamstar is not currently here, we can not hold any warrior or apprentice ceremonies. I am sorry, we will try to find her as soon as possible. But we also have good news!

Before Markstar died, Strongspirit was expecting their second litter. She has recently given birth. Her kits came later then usual, but they all survived. She had three kits. Two she-kits, Featheredkit and Sweetkit, and a tom, Crowkit. Sweetkit... is different though. You shall see what I mean when they open their eyes and start exploring. Markstar would have been proud to be standing up here announcing his own kits births, but he sadly can only watch from above. For now we shall celebrate the new life that LakeClan needs."

Murmurs of congratulations spread through the clan. Grin nodded.

"Otherwise the clan shall continue as it always has. Thank-you. That is all."

He leaped off the LakeRock and padded to the warriors den, his head low.

::---::

Maple grabbed Ink's scruff.

"You can't go over there right now. When Ridgefeather gets back we will."

Ink growled.

"That's not fair! We're a moon old!"

Maple purred as Oak-kit nodded with his brother.

"Ya! Why does Ridgefeather have to always be here?"

She smiled.

"Cause he wants to watch you two grow up too."

She licked Oakkits shoulder and he backed away.

"When will he be back?"

"Soon little ones. Come sleep for now."

Ink and Oakkit groaned, then they pricked their ears and ran towards the window. Ridgefeather leaped up onto the windowsill, then leaped inside. He shook his fur off as it was damp from the oncoming rain. Ink squeaked happily then raced off in the direction he had wanted to go earlier. Oakkit followed close behind. Ridgefeather watched them run off, his heart feeling heavy. Part of him was still loyal to StarClan. He had broken the code so much. He had become a kitty-pet and had kits and a mate. What had happened to him? 

It had been a long time since he had been in a clan. Almost four seasons, as Leaf-fall was coming soon. He shook his head. What was happening in the clan? Nestflame said Dreamstar was back. How? Then he looked at Maple and he smiled. He was living a new life now.

Now and Forever

Burst nudged Ebonywing awake. He nosed her ear, whispering.

"Come with me into the forest. I... need to tell you something."

Burst then padded carefully around the cats, making sure Singe and Flash were both fast asleep. Once in the clearing he looked around. The clan was on edge ever since Rippleblaze had disappeared and Dreamstar had sunk into her sorrow. He looked behind him and saw Ebonywing. She blended perfectly into the darkness, with only her white paws and green eyes showing that she was there. He sniffed the air and padded through the entrance. The guard was circling the camp, so it was safe to go. Burst started to run, and he felt Ebonywing running slightly behind him. He found himself at the lake. He looked into the black water, and flicked his tail before jumping in. Ebonywing followed, swimming close to Burst.

After a while of swimming, Burst clambered onto the island. He leapt onto a flat rock, shaking himself off before lying down. The rock still held the warmth from the sun, so it was warm with the chilly lake breeze. Ebonywing laid down beside Burst. He looked at her, his heart beating fast.

Please Forgive me if I seem forward,
But I've never been in front of anything like you,
It's the last place I ever thought I'd be when I woke up this morning,

"I... wanted to tell you something. Something I shouldn't, but I feel like I can. Because I trust you."

He stared at her before looking away.

Is it true that you are always this breathtaking?,
And you're smart and you're willing,
And my god this is killing me.

Ebonywing rested her head on the rock.

"I'll always listen."

Tell me all the things you never said,
We can lie here and talk for hours in my bed,
I don't have anything to hide,

"After I tell you, I'd like to know everything about you too."

I don't have anything everything is not for certain,
I don't have anything to hide,
I don't have anything everything is not for certain.

 She nodded.

"I've noticed something was different about you and your brothers."

You started to see right through me,
And I'm loving every minute of it,
It's like I'm born again every time I breathe in so,

Burst smiled slightly.

"We're very much different."

If you're curious my favorite color's blue,
And I like to sing in the shower,
If you like I'll sing to you,

He took in a deep breath.

"Singe, Flash and I aren't from here. We're not normal cats. We're... we're from the Dark Forest. We were sent to destroy LakeClan... I... my real name isn't actually Burst. See, we have two sides to us. Our "normal, good" side. Which is this one. Me, Burst. And our evil side. Our evil sides have different names... If someone else says our name, then our evil side takes over. I can say my own name, and as long as Singe and Flash don't hear theirs, I can say them. Singe is Sear, and Flash is Flare. My name is Break.... If anyone else other then me says it, I start killing. It's dangerous to be around me... I'm evil."

Ebonywing didn't respond, she just looked at Burst. She then put her paw on top of his, and he looked at her. She whispered.

"I trust you. And I... I love you. I trust you not to hurt me."

Burst's ears rang, and his heart beat faster then ever.

Tell me all the things you never said,
We can lie here and talk for hours in my bed,
I don't have anything to hide.

 He looked at her paw on his, then looked back at her. He whispered very quietly.

"I love you too... I shouldn't."

I don't have anything everything is not for certain,
I don't have anything to hide,
I don't have anything everything is not for certain,

He shut his eyes tight.

"We can't be anything Ebonywing! How can we? I'll be gone one day..."

Ebonywing nudged him lightly.

"We can make it work."

Burst looked back at her.

"T-tell me all of your hopes,
All of your dreams.
I want you to take me there.
Tell me all of your hopes,
All of your dreams.
I want to take you there."

He took a deep breath, and touched his nose to her cheek.

"Tell my everything,
Every breath.
I want you to know I'll be there."

Ebonywing nodded, and Burst continued.

"There's just one more thing. 
One request.
I want you to take me with you.

I want to be with you forever. "

Ebonywing closed her eyes, shaking slightly.

"Of course... always. Forever."

Burst layed his head down next to Ebonywing's. Their pelts were brushing, and everything felt right, even though Burst had just told her his biggest secret. He whispered very quietly as they drifted to sleep.

"Take me with you.
I will never let you down.
I will love you... now and forever..."

::---::

The Travels-Part 1

Dreamstar slowly walked out of the camp. Quiverstar walked beside her, and another warrior on her other side. She felt cats looked at her, but ignored them. Her mind was too fuzzy with hidden dreams and dark sorrows.

As they neared the log that made it possible to cross to LakeClan territory, Dreamstar's ears swiveled to the right. She stopped, looking to the right. That was where Rippleblaze was swept off too. Quiverstar stopped and looked behind him.

"Come on. We're almost there. Your clan mates are waiting on the other side. He looked across to see Grayshadow, Bluegaze and Jayflight on the other side. Dreamstar looked over, and saw her two kits and Bluegaze. The son of her friend Froststar of SandClan. She saw him slightly narrow his blue eyes. He was blind, but yet seemed to see the world better then anyone else. She looked to her right again. Then suddenly she bolted to the right, her paws pounding across the soft earth. Quiverstar yowled and raced after her. She felt her feet slip out from under her. Her eyes widened as she tumbled forwards, slipping into the fast water from recent rains. She pulled her head above water, and gasped for air. Quiverstar stopped on the edge, his eyes wide.

"Swim to the shore!"

Dreamstar narrowed her eyes, and dove down, where the water was slower. She came back up shortly after, letting the river sweep her to the waterfall. Jayflight gasped.

"No! Dreamstar it's suicide!"

Dreamstar didn't listen, just looked up at the sky. Bluegaze had been looking away when he heard the splash. He heard the gasps as she got closer to the waterfall. He shook his head and growled, then raced along the shore. He used his power, though it was fading, and leaped in right beside Dreamstar. He grabbed her scruff just as they went over the gorge.

Two Lives of a Kitty-Pet

Dreamstar barely moved from the MarshClan's medicine cat den. She had been there for almost a quarter moon, and still no sign of Rippleblaze. She barely even opened her eyes, and she had started to reject any herbs Featherblaze offered. She barely ate either. She would take a small bite of prey, before pushing it away. She had been reduced to bones.

Quiverstar and Featherblaze looked on at her with worry as her life ebbed farther and farther away. And not even StarClan can heal a broken heart.

They consulted often.

"Will she not eat a thing?"

Featherblaze shook her head.

"She's too depressed. She'll only drink some water and lay there."

Quiverstar sighed.

"Maybe... it'd be best if she went back to her own clan. They will be able to support her better than we can."

His medicine cat nodded.

"Yes. But she is too weak to cross the log. We'll have to go further upstream to cross."

Quiverstar nodded.

"They'll be a some cats waiting by the entrance at Sun-high."

Featherblaze nodded then padded into his den, where he found Dreamstar twitching her sleep, her pelt drenched with sweat. He nudged her gently, and she jerked awake, her eyes wide and wild.

"Rip-"

She stopped, her fur lying flat. She rested her head on the ground again without another sound.

"Dreamstar. We've decided that it may be better if you went back to your own clan. Your clanmates know you best."

Dreamstar said nothing, just stared blankly at the wall. Featherblaze nodded.

"We leave at Sun-High."

::---::

Rippleblaze opened his eyes and yawned. For quite a while he didn't know where he was. Everything was blurry and confusing. Today it was clearer, but the pain still ripped through him. Through his whole body, because it was just not his leg that was hurt. Long scores of teeth marks raked his body, and he had broken a rib, and two of his legs. He winced, and felt everything turn dizzy. Before he passed out, he saw a black shape above him, but it was too blurry to make out.

::---::

Maple had come back two days after the twoleg had brought her away. That first morning when the twoleg came back without her, Ridgefeather stayed where he was, overcome with terror for Maple.

When she had come back to the next day, Ridgefeather nuzzled her joyfully. Then Ridgefeather heard a mew, and he pricked his ears towards the cage Maple was brought home in. maple ducked back in and brought out two little kits. Ridgefeather's pupils dilated as he took in the two kits. He felt his heart soar, not even thinking about the warrior code then. The twoleg had gone into another room, and Maple purred, carrying her kits to the room where she was first going to give birth. The room had been cleaned up, and a new bed was lying in a corner. It had high walls, and Maple climbed in. Ridgefeather sat down, and looked in. The one kit was jet black, while the other was a red brown colour. Ridgefeather felt a purr rise in his throat.

"M-maple. I wish I could have been there when they were born."

Maple smiled.

"Why don't we name them. Can the black one be Ink?"

Ridgefeather nodded.

"Of course. And the red one, Oak...kit?"

Maple purred, licking Ridgefeather's cheek.

"A warrior, hey?"

Ridgefeather looked away.

"They're beautiful."

Ridgefeather curled up outside the bed Maple was in, falling asleep to hearing his two kits suckling.