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salt-clangen · 8 months ago

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Moon 7 2/2

Leaf Fall

Lynxpaw tried to keep conversation with Darkfold as they walked. She actually did have questions, but was trying not to reveal too much about Wolfstar or Snowspeckle’s states. But her nerves were making her jaw clench, she knew the rest of the patrol could scent her stress which only made her tenser.

“So with poppy seed use, I know cats can be reliant on them, what’s the best way to circumvent that?” She asked, happy to match the older molly’s slower pace.

“Try not to use it except in emergencies, and be prepared to hide it when you start to wean them. And never use it on yourself unless you have another cleric who can take you off of it. Just like kits nursing, you should slowly take away the poppies and introduce a safer herb for long term use.” Darkfold said very seriously.

“Do you think topical pain control would be enough or would it be smarter to use an oral type?” She pondered.

“I would say oral, but honestly both would be appropriate. I find that comfrey and dandelion tea mixes well with a poultice or ointment made of marigold.”

Thornstrike’s ears swiveled, trying to catch their low conversation over the sounds of the river.

“Thank you, we recently managed to get a significant amount of poppy seeds so I’d like to be prepared for using it.” Lynxpaw lied, hoping she sounded casual. “What’s your opinion on using cobwebs verses moss bandages?”

“Hmm I suppose I prefer cobwebs for stopping bleeding, it’s easier to see bleed through. But moss is pretty good at keeping topicals on the skin.”

Crossing over the fallen tree took a minute, Darkfold slowly ascending, unable to fully leap up onto the log. Thornstrike seemed to finally have some respect and let her brace again him to get up. Shadowpaw crossed through the river, showing off Lynxpaw assumed, racing ahead to let her use him as a step to get down.

Darkfold never acknowledged her pace or shortcomings, not even to thank the toms for their help. Lynxpaw supposed she didn’t want to seem weak, but she was dying to know what her ailment was. Despite that she kept her mouth shut and tried to ignore Thornstrike nearly shoving her off the log to try to beat her to the end.

She got there first, smug as she hopped down.

The gathering was just as large and overwhelming as she remembered. Though this time no one really batted an eye at them, taking longer to notice the pair as they arrived with the very strong scented Duskclan cats. Thornstrike shouldered past her, more forceful now, to assume his spot on the deputy’s rock, she snarled after him.

“Here, come wait by the leader’s rock. The gathering should start soon, Oakclan is still on the way. We can chat until it’s time for me to speak.” Darkfold instructed them, leading the pair to the shadow of the large stone. A few cats gave them wide eye glances but no one approached.

Jaggedstar and Rookstar were both lounging on the rock, the former watching them with sharp eyes. Her gaze narrowed as she realized Wolfstar wasn’t with them, but she didn’t call out to them.

“What do you plan to say?” Shadowpaw asked bluntly.

“You’ll see,” Darkfold answered, her tone was bored like she’d been asked this a million times already. “I did receive visions about your little group, but I’ve only told Jaggedstar, Rosedrift, and Mousefoot. Who relayed their dreams to me as well, Mousefoot and I will present them at the start of the gathering.”

The dark molly settled onto an exceptionally plush group of ferns and moss. Possibly her usual spot at gathering given her condition.

Lynxpaw shifted closer into Shadowpaw nervously, tucking herself against his side. He stayed still letting her shield herself from the crowd. After a moment he grunted at her, making her smile.

“I know Starclan is on our side, but I’m really nervous. What if something goes wrong? What if the clans decide to attack us.” She murmured into his fur, letting his salty scent comfort her.

“Don’t worry, Licks.” He answered simply. “Starclan will intervene on our behalf. I know it.”

Strangely his blunt, straightforward way of speaking was comforting for her. Though any words of reassurance probably would’ve worked on her. They settled into mirrored loafs, him facing the crowd while she was angled to face him and Darkfold.

That’s how they passed the time waiting for Oakclan to arrive. Lynxpaw trying to ease herself into glancing at the crowd of cats, all of whom seemed intent on staring. While she did that Shadowpaw kept his face blank, almost bored, a few younger cats gave him a nod as they walked by, but he didn’t acknowledge them back.

A young, familiar red tabby tom nervously stepped closer, a large burn covering the left side of his face. Lynxpaw was sure this must be Burnpaw, cleric apprentice of Duskclan and one of Wolfstar’s old friends. He glanced around nervously as he approached the front of them, almost like he was gonna talk to the pair, but he dodged around them in a jittery rush. Neither cat was subtle as they watched the odd cat approached Darkfold, he bowed quickly and whispered in her ear. The motion made her notice the bag around his neck, a small dark pouch likely leather.

Darkfold nodded then whispered back briefly, with a final nod he left the bag beside her and turned to go. He walked towards the pair again, eyes wide and he started to speak, zoned in on Lynxpaw. Her large companion stood up though, a low growl made the cleric apprentice pause. In another awkward rush of movement he turned sharply and walked away towards the crowd.

Lynxpaw purred and gave her clan mate a quick lick on his shoulder as he returned to loaf with her. The crowd was no louder or quieter than before, suprisingly.

It wasn’t much longer when Oakclan finally arrived, their shining leader, Archstar, entering first. Their long legs carried them at a breezy pace, their deputy and clan mates had to trot to catch up. They had managed to leap atop the leader’s stone before the final members of their clan had actually entered the clearing.

Lynxpaw watched Shadowpaw watch the crowd, curious to see who he knew. His face was blank, but his eyes were quickly scanning over each cat. Searching.

He let out a short huff through his nose when the final cats passed. Only one cat out of all seemed to catch his attention, a small lean black cat, somehow dwarfed by him despite being clearly full grown. Lynxpaw tried to see if the grey tabby that had abandoned him was here, but she couldn’t remember his face well.

The only cat to approach them was Mousefoot, the large wirey furred cleric, who ambled up to them. He splayed onto his side with a loud, but amicable, groan. Stretching his legs and toes, he gave the trio a fond greeting. He lay prone between them and Darkfold, much more lax despite his age.

Darkfold gave a brief greeting, while Lynxpaw only nodded.

“Shadowpaw my friend,” The old Tom chuckled. “Thought you were dog food, came running with a patrol when we’d heard about ya fight and found nothing but blood and fur.”

“Mousefoot.” Shadowpaw said, lips tight. Lynxpaw couldn’t tell if he genuinely hated the cleric or if he was just annoyed.

“Well I’m glad to see ya. Guess this means you won’t be coming back with us tonight huh?” Mousefoot didn’t seem sad though, his eyes shined with fondness. “Well can’t say I blame ya.”

“Let’s talk more after the gathering.” He dismissed, ears flicking.

Ah, mild annoyance, Lynxpaw thought fondly.

Mousefoot grunted an agreement and settled into a relaxed posture as the leaders called for the gathering to start.

The beginning of the gathering was… boring. Despite everyone’s anticipation to learn more about Saltclan and its legitimacy, the leaders seemed oblivious and went on with the standard announcements.

Honeyclan welcomes two new warriors.

Duskclan has a new warrior apprentice.

Oakclan just had two litters totaling in 6 kits.

Nothing interesting really, aside from warnings of a large dog around the carrion place, which was really just the one that attacked Shadowpaw and Wolfstar. Jaggedstar mentioned her clan took down a large boar and have began processing it, issuing an open invite to trade.

She got distracted watching Darkfold open her bag and begin to eat the contents. It looked like seeds, large spherical seeds with a rich smell. Mousefoot subtly lifted his paw to get her attention, shaking his head slightly when she looked. Admonished, Lynxpaw returned to watching the leaders.

The evening got a little interesting when Archstar brought up an issue concerning Honeyclan’s burial sites leeching into Oakclan territory, but it was shot down by Rookstar quickly. Archstar offered to discuss details in a smaller setting with mediators present which was accepted by the orange leader.

Finally when it felt like Lynxpaw was gonna rip her fur out and scream from boredom, Jaggedstar began to speak again.

She called for Darkfold to ascend the stone. Archstar, in turn, called for Mousefoot. Rookstar apologized for their lead clerics absence but gave no further explanation.

Surprisingly, Darkfold stood without assistance and climbed atop the rock quickly. Mousefoot followed at a leisurely pace, taking his time with the steps. When seated together, the older Tom crouched to allow Darkfold to speak first.

“I’m here to describe to you all the visions seen at the clerics most recent half moon gathering.” She spoke loudly and clearly. “Specifically regarding the new groups of cats, originally from Duskclan, claiming to be ordained by Starclan and calling themselves Saltclan.”

Lynxpaw flinched as Jaggedstar’s gaze dropped down to her. Shadowpaw didn’t move, despite her trembling.

“Many of you know that the three clans we have today weren’t born out of the dirt and mud, they were cats that were compelled to organize and coexist together as clans. Many, many seasons ago there was only Oakclan, lead by the first cat of nine lives Oakstar. Before the end of his final life another cat stepped out of the clan by Starclan’s will. This was Duskstar, who had been the original cleric and the first cat to visit the moon spring. Many seasons passed and again another cat stepped outside of Oakclan, driven by love and grief. She would be known as Honeystar and it would only be after she sacrificed her only life to protect her makeshift clan that Starclan acknowledged her leadership and gave her nine lives.”

She took a moment to pause and nod to Rookstar.

“It has been many seasons since Honeyclan’s formation, no cat alive today was alive when she was. So while there is precedent that new clans may form by splintering off their original clan, there is precedent for something much more sinister. Some of you may be too young, but I remember being a kit during Tall Water’s raids. A vicious tom cat named Talltail who believed he deserved to be leader and when rejected by his clan for his extremist views, took up with a group of rouges and exiles. He took the name Tall Water’s and hid amongst the rocks at the shore. He attacked without mercy and stole prey from our clans. His most heinous crime was kit stealing.”

A wave of murmurs and gasps broke out amongst the group, though quickly hushed.

“I myself was stolen and it was only after Jaggedstar, Moltenfeather of Honeyclan, and Mousefoot of Oakclan came together that I and many other kits were rescued. Those three brought a final raid again Tall Water’s group after finding his location following a vision Mousefoot received from Starclan.”

A few cats made sounds of cheer, again hushed by the deputies.

“Tall Water’s band claimed to be a clan, calling themselves Tallclan, but when Jaggedstar took his only life. It finally proved he was truly just a cat.

Tall Water was not the first cat to defect from a clan and claim to be following Starclan, only to go against nearly every law ordained by our ancestors in the warrior code. And he likely won’t be the last.”

Her gaze, like every cat in attendance, fell on Lynxpaw.

“I tell you these stories not to sway you one way or another, but to remind you what our history has taught us. Starclan has required several things from a clan to be gifted with their blessings. A clan must have a hierarchy, they must have their own land, nearly undisputed either by trial or by chance. They must be able to defend and maintain their borders, a clan who can’t keep their borders doesn’t deserve their territory. And finally, they must follow the warrior code to the greatest extent they can.

Our history has shown that if a clan follows these guides, then they are aligned with Starclan. If they don’t, eventually they will be eradicated by the true clans.”

Jaggedstar stood for a moment, letting Darkfold finish her sentence before stepping forward to command attention.

“Please Darkfold, tell us of the vision you received.” She asked.

Lynxpaw wasn’t sure if she was actually trying to hurry Darkfold along for the sake of time. Or if she just wanted to emphasize Duskclan’s importance in this situation.

“Yes, on the most recent half moon gathering, I met with lead clerics Mousefoot and Rosedrift at the moon spring. We all set our intentions to learn more about the legitimacy and future of Saltclan.

Rosedrift and Mousefoot have spoken to both me and their leaders, their vision was only of me. They saw me in a bright light, sitting with my back to them and my tail resting in a pool of water. The light slowly faded into evening and their visions ended.

After much deliberation we agreed that this is a sign that my vision, the only one that differed, was the true vision to be interpreted. This is why Mousefoot and Rosedrift, who was not able to come this moon, allowed me the honor of being the one to speak at the gathering.”

Everyone was waiting with bated breath for her next words. As she began to speak again the moonlight broke through the wispy clouds and bathed her and Mousefoot in a bright beam. A show of Starclan’s will, Lynxpaw audibly gasped.

“My vision showed me standing on a brightly lit beach, the sand was shining so vivid, it seemed nearly white. Everything around me was glowing and iridescent. The waves however were dark, nearly black as they lapped at my feet. As I stepped further away from the water, I watched as a set of paw prints began to appearing. It was as if an unseen cat walked past me, side by side with the waves. However when the water receded from the shore, the paw steps remained, unlike mine which had washed away as one would expect. No matter how far I looked or how rough the waves were, the paw prints remained.

I, and the other lead clerics, believe that this vision shows that not only is Saltclan blessed by Starclan, but it shows that they will remain steady and present even when faced with adversary.”

Lynxpaw heart felt light, she felt like she could breathe again. Against her side she could feel Shadowpaw’s rumble purrs. Tears nearly sprung to her eyes as she stared up to the stars with gratitude.

As the noise of the crowd swelled again, Lynxpaw could distinctly hear Thornstrike hissing at everyone to be silent. Somehow managing to be louder than most of the cats.

“Thank you, Darkfold, Mousefoot. You may both return to a more comfortable spot.” Archstar’s voice rang out like a bell, compelling the cats’ attention without shrieking. “I’m fully satisfied with the cleric’s interpretation of the vision.”

“As am I. Though I do think a meeting between clans to establish borders is necessary.” Rookstar agreed, glancing at Lynxpaw.

“And Jaggedstar?” Archstar prompted, an easy grin on their face to mirror the snarl on hers. “What do you say of the new clan?”

“I’m more than satisfied with Darkfold’s analysis.” She turned to face the crowd. “I would’ve like to have heard from the newest leader, but she seems to be absent. Would either you have an explanation?”

She glared at the pair of them as Darkfold final manages to get back to her soft nest, all her strength and vigor gone.

“I would be happy to.” Lynxpaw could tell she was shaky, but as a cleric she’d need to be used to speaking in tense situations. She just pretended she was practicing at camp with Snowspeckle. “Wolfstar sends her apologies. Our clan’s artisan has given birth recently and is much too weak to be on her own.”

She paused to try to manage her thoughts again, she didn’t like lying, but the truth was too dangerous to admit right now.

“I would’ve stayed but Wolfstar decide that between a leader and a cleric, it was smarter to send the cleric.”

“Even though it’s a cleric’s apprentice?” Archstar asked, a little playful tone to their voice, but it felt just shy of mean spirited.

“Even still.” Lynxpaw smiled widely, trying to match the flamboyant leader’s tone. “An odd situation for sure but I agree with her decision.”

“And why not leave the apprentice?” Jaggedstar asked, causing most of the crowd to really focus on Shadowpaw for the first time. He bristled slightly but didn’t move even as some cats murmured.

“Wolfstar has a lot of practical knowledge when it comes to healing, if I couldn’t attend I wouldn’t have been comfortable without her there to care for our first litter and queen. Shadowpaw has recently joined us since last moon. The large dog Oakclan had mentioned has actually been taken care of already.”

“You mean to tell us your clan took on a dog?” Rookstar gasped, disbelieving.

“No Ssfu, last month after returning from Capri’s post, Wolfstar and I saw the dog attacking Shadowpaw. Wolfstar went to help and the cat he was with left, she managed to keep the dog at bay enough for its two leg owner to recapture it.”

The realization that partial truths were easier to say than outright lies made her stomach twist. It felt like lying no matter what.

“I’m glad Shadowpaw survived this attack and while I’m not enthusiastic about departures, I understand if he chooses to remain in saltclan given this event.” Archstar announced, Lynxpaw caught some eye rolls, likely from Oakclan cats. Snowspeckle had told her loyalty to their clan ran deep.

“We’re more than glad to have him, he is an exemplary addition to the clan.” Lynxpaw chirped, her squeaky voice got high as she said it. She bunted her head against his shoulder.

Shadowpaw, for his part, just sighed through his nose.

Very mild annoyance, she thought.

“Thank you, Lynxpaw for speaking.” Rookstar said, blinking fondly at the apprentice, her kittenish behavior had charmed him. “If there’s nothing else?”

He glanced at his companions on the rock, neither spoke.

“Then we may close this gathering.” He announced and the crowd broke into chatter right away.

“Should we stay for the after gathering?” Lynxpaw asked, a little excited. Wolfstar had only been to one after gathering, but she talked of it fondly. Snowspeckle had been to multiple and told Lynxpaw about them often.

“It’s late, it might be a good idea to head back home.” Shadowpaw stretched, glancing toward the clearing’s exit.

“Oh it would be nice for you to stay though!” She said. “You could let your friends know you’re ok.”

“Don’t have any friends here, don’t wanna talk to any of those cats.” He snapped, Lynxpaw didn’t flinch, though she was surprised. He pressed his ears against his head, looking all the world like he’d been reprimanded. “Sorry.”

“It’s alright, let’s head out.” She bunted his shoulder again.

“You can’t go yet.” Darkfold called, still lounging in her nest. “Didn’t you have questions for the other clerics? Now would be the time to ask.”

“Oh! Yeah,” She glanced at him cautiously, but he just nodded. “Thank you, Darkfold. That’s a good idea.”

Darkfold didn’t get up from her spot, letting the crowd disperse a little first. Lynxpaw noticed that not everyone stayed for the after gathering. All three deputies departed with group of their own clan. Jaggedstar and Rookstar also left, but Archstar stayed behind. They had an easy way about them, it wasn’t hard to see they’d enjoy the peaceful environment.

Lynxpaw watched in a load as some apprentices pulled a large pot out from behind some brush. There were buckets filled with water already set aside and a fire was quickly started. The crowd was either very young warriors and apprentices along with very aged warriors, some could even be elders. The elders attended the pot while the younger cats gathered to show what they brought, Lynxpaw inched closer.

“I brought some extra rosemary I helped a cleric gather.” A flame point tom offered, dropping it into the pot.

“We brought some marinated rabbit meat.” A black and white molly said loudly, tucked behind her was an identical tom, looking much more nervous.

The meat was added by the elders, who stored the now boiling water gently.

One by one each apprentice and newly made warrior put forward a different ingredient. Thyme, honey, fish meat, sage, and even ground flax for thickening. Lynxpaw watched on, letting out a dreamy sigh.

“Shit, I wish I’d brought some salt.” She frowned, earning some odd glances. She flushed until an elder laughed.

“You sound like a loner over there little one.” A dark grey elder chuckled.

“I’ve been in charge of trading with Capri while our artisan recovers from birth.” She smiled widely.

“Ah she’s got some great goods,” Another elder, a blue molly, laughed. “A bit far for a young one like yourself.”

“It’s pretty quick, I just follow the shoreline and go around the two legs.” She shrugged the order cats nodded.

“Well that’s a lot faster than traveling from Duskclan I’ll tell ya what. But don’t ya worry about salt I already mixed in some colt’s foot for a bit of flavor.”

As the conversation’s focus left Lynxpaw she glanced back and noticed her large companion was missing. She tried not to look worried as she checked around the clearing. A gentle tap of a tail to her hip made her glance left.

“He- uh Hi.” It was the red tabby from before. “I’m Burnpaw.”

“I know.” She said, head tilted.

“Oh ummm yeah. I was friends with Wolfstar when she was in Duskclan.” He said.

“I know that too.”

He was visibly flushed.

“Listen… I know Wolfstar isn’t here because she on nurse duty.” He said seriously, ears flat.

Lynxpaw knew about his last confrontation with Wolfstar, the argument over what his dream meant and whether she should return to the clan.

“Your dream interpretation was off, she survived the dog attack.” She avoided admitting her lie. He didn’t seem surprised that she knew.

“But her neck was slashed, right?” He asked, letting the obvious diversion go. “She survived? Or she lost a life and came back?”

“She survived,” Lynxpaw said firmly, but they both knew he was right. “Why do you care? You wanted her to come back because she wasn’t strong enough. This is proof she can be the leader she deserves to be.”

“Can she meet me?” He ignored the dodge again, now she was feeling irritated, tail flicking. “I need to talk to her.”

“Why?”

“Just please, tell her. I’ll wait every evening, right at sunset, for her at the abandoned two leg nest. I’ll stay for as long as I can. When she’s well enough, have her come talk with me.”

“Lynxpaw.” Shadowpaw called out, her head snapped up. He was further across the clearing, half hidden in the shadows.

He stepped out into the moonlight, following beside him was the small black warrior from before. A molly with matching green eyes to his.

“What’s going on?” He asked, circling around the pair. The black molly stood waiting.

“Discussing clerical matters with a fellow apprentice.” Burnpaw answered tightly, face pinched.

Shadowpaw cut across his circle now, going between the two cats, his size caused them both to skooch back to avoid him. He continued his circling, now with them further apart, a very unsubtle move.

It made Lynxpaw smile.

“We were finished speaking anyways.” She gave him a head bump when he passed her again. Burnpaw quietly agreed. “Who’s this?”

“I’m Inkypelt, code keeper of Oakclan. I’m his older sister.” The molly answered for him.

“I’m Lynxpaw! It’s nice to meet you.” She smiled widely again, Inkypelt seemed as stoic as her little brother, she only nodded.

“Soups ready!” One of the elder called, pulling out bowls and ladles, the utensils all looking very well loved.

Shadowpaw sat between her and Burnpaw, sharing a bowl of the mixed soup. It wasn’t nearly as salty or fishy as she was used to. She would’ve called it bland but, while the broth was thin and simple, the marinades and fatty meats added a layer of flavor she hadn’t had before.

“Oh here, if you want it a bit spicier.” The flame point apprentice offered a small bowl. “It’s concentrated juniper broth, a little goes a long ways. Not everyone likes spicy so we bring this as a condiment instead.”

Burnpaw took the bowl and poured some into his soup, Lynxpaw declined. She was sharing with Shadowpaw and knew he dislike the spicy juniper berries. Perhaps next time she and Wolfstar could share.

In the distance she saw Archstar sharing a bowl with the older blue molly from Duskclan she’d talked with.

They finished their soup slowly, savoring the warmth as the evening chill deepened. Side conversations started up and died down as the moon reached its peak. Lynxpaw asked the clerics more questions, apologizing for seeming so uneducated.

“Nonsense!” Mousefoot laughed, some soup sticking to his thick muzzle fur. “You have no mentor, of course you’d have questions. In fact I was the one to train Fernstorm when they were a -paw.”

“That’s right, when I was an apprentice my mentor had died right after my ceremony. The other cleric of the clan fell gravely ill and wasn’t able to teach me much. Finally at a gathering I just asked Mousefoot right there if he’d help me. Him and Burdockpelt of Duskclan took turns mentoring me and helping Honeyclan while I learned.” A light gray gib, Fernstorm, spoke up. They recounted the story fondly. “It’s really not such a burden.”

“You’ve got quite a bit of knowledge already though. You ask complicated questions and know a lot of herbal uses.” Darkfold pointed out. “How have you been getting that training?”

It felt like a spot light was on her and she felt a little flustered.

“Well… Wolfstar actually knows a lot about herbs and how to gather them. She used to take me as a kit to help gather moss and she’d point out which plant was useful.”

“Yeah Wolfstar was always a good learner, she was great at remembering the warrior code and stories Ashenstep told.” Burnpaw chimed in, at first he seemed bright, talking about the past. “I’m not surprised she managed to learn a few clerical things before leaving…”

He seemed to dim now, hesitating as his sentence dropped off awkwardly, Shadowpaw huffed a little laugh at him, smirking into his bowl. Lynxpaw nudged him.

“Well I also had visions from Starclan cats.” Lynxpaw admitted, trying to fill the uncomfortable silence.

This got some attention, most cats in the circle pausing their meals.

“How so?” Fernstorm asked.

“Well it doesn’t happen as often now that I’m older, but when I was a kit I would see starry cats a lot. Especially while Wolfstar was hunting or patrolling. They’d show me which herbs were which that Wolfstar had gathered. And they’d teach me about different illnesses and how to treat them.”

“Remarkable.” Mousefoot smiled again, she felt a little relieved. “Kits are truly so connected to our ancestors, it’s wonderful they were able to help you.”

“Well I see them maybe once a moon now and it’s very briefly, so I feel like my training has stalled.”

“Well I can spare some time each quarter moon to fill in the gaps for you if you’d like.” Mousefoot offered. “We’ve got two clerics besides me and an apprentice, so I won’t be missed.”

“And I or Rosedrift can visit twice a moon for lessons as well.” Fernstorm added.

“That’s amazing! Thank you it would greatly help!” Lynxpaw purred.

The two clerics glanced at Darkfold.

“My apologies, but unfortunately I won’t be able to contribute.” Darkfold said politely. “I’m the only full cleric in the clan and I don’t travel long distances well. This is the first gathering I’ve been to in moons.”

“I understand completely,” Lynxpaw blinked fondly at her, the only acknowledgment Darkfold gave was a tail twitch. “I appreciate all the help you’ve given already.”

Fernstorm and Mousefoot agreed to a schedule with Lynxpaw as the conversation drifted to new topics. Once finished she settled into a relaxed flop and pressed against her clan mate. After a while Shadowpaw nudged her and they began to stretch to leave.

As they did a conversation caught her attention.

“So I hear you’re about to get a second apprentice? What’s the hurry?” Fernstorm asked Darkfold.

“Well Burnpaw is nearing the end of his education and the clan is large so it’ll be wise to have as many clerics trained as we can. Right now I’m borrowing warriors and gardeners to help gather herbs. I might even consider snagging a code keeper apprentice that I think would do well as a cleric. But we’ll see.”

“The evening was wonderful but I think it’s time for us to leave.” Lynxpaw announced, bowing her head in thanks. Shadowpaw walked over to his sister, they spoke in low voices before he gave her a head bump.

“Yeah you’d better go relieve that poor leader of yours from Nurse duty!” One elder joked.

“She’ll lose a life for each kit I’m telling ya.” Another laughed.

The crowd’s playful jeers faded as they left the clearing. Entering the swift river, the chill barely felt due to their thick coats, they let the current carry them home.

She missed the gathering, the first gathering as a true clan. Lynxpaw and Shadowpaw had to go alone.

Alone. Wolfstar wanted to wail, but her barely together throat wouldn’t let her.

She glowered in the dark, angry at herself and her wound. They’d left just before sunfall, making an early meal for Snowspeckle and herself.

The night dragged slowly, she kept herself entertained by slowly inching herself to the den entrance. Her upper body still protested the strain, any tug to her neck made her clench and twitch. Slowly she gathered her legs under herself, shakily she managed to take a few steps.

The walk, though agonizing, was actually great at relieving her mind. Forced to focus on each individual limb and her balance. The flares of pain occupying her mind, but she was determined.

She wanted to see the stars.

When the camp clearing finally opened up to her, she nearly cried. It’d been so long since she’d left the den. Lynxpaw, a young cleric with no mentor, was playing it safe with her recovery. Too safe. She needed the pain and activity, she needed to work towards something. If not, she was just wasting away.

The clearing was quiet, as expected, and the moon was at its peak. It had taken her nearly half the night just to walk out of the den. The sight was lovely though, the tide pools glowing in the full moon light, everything lit up some beautifully.

She settled into a loaf, such a mundane position caused her to put strain on her chest and abdomen. It was a bruising, but satisfying stretch, like how it felt after combat training or a long journey. When it became too much, she lowered her chin to the ground, resting her chest but now stretching the back of her neck and shoulders. She switched between the two poses, even stretching a paw out one at a time to get a new sensation.

Eventually her injury and exhaustion caught up with her and she began to doze. It was hard given that the poppy seeds she was given at meal time seemed to be fading now. She was tempted to just grab herself another dose, letting herself enjoy the buzzing comfort, but she wasn’t a cleric and had no business touching Lynxpaw’s work.

The moon dropped down low in the sky, not long now until the sun rises. Fear settled in her stomach like a stone.

Were they ok? Did the clans believe them? Or did they slaughter them? She shivered with distaste, it couldn’t be true, but where were they.

Tiny mewls drew her attention away from her worries. The nursery was just on the other side of the leader’s den, her den. Snowspeckle had moved there when she’d recovered from birthing the small litter. It wasn’t a surprise given how she’d basically set up the nursery to be one giant numbest for herself, pelts and fur everywhere. She’d even gotten Lynxpaw to bring her a blanket from Capri’s, the plush, softer than fur fabric had only cost a paw full of salt and a promise to bring the kits to see her when they were old enough.

Focusing completely on the mewls and soft singing, Wolfstar was almost asleep when Lynxpaw and Shadowpaw finally returned home. She jolted awake as Lynxpaw checked her over, worried about why she was out of her nest, let alone the den in such weather.

Wolfstar shivered as she noticed the chill for the first time, it didn’t help both cats hovering around her were still wet from their swim. She sneered a little as water dripped on her.

Slowly she managed to stand, pushing away overly helpful paws, and slowly made her way back to her nest. Shadowpaw stayed outside, checking the camp for any changes in his absence.

“What happened?” Her voice was creaky and she really wished she had some honey, but she spoke anyways.

Lynxpaw fussed over her as she sleepily retold the events of the night. Changing her moss and bringing her cool tea with herbal honey on the side. Wolfstar eyed the jar of poppy seeds, but Lynxpaw quickly moved it out of the way, giving her a bundle of herbs instead.

Wolfstar listened closely as the apprentice spoke, her worry ebbed away to joy as the story went on. She finished her tea and herbs just as Lynxpaw finished her recount, the two of them settling in to share a nest- typical.

“Sorry I left you here for so long.” Lynxpaw frowned, her nose buried in the fresh moss. “The after gathering was so much fun and I was learning so much… I didn’t wanna leave. I should’ve been back sooner.”

Wolfstar’s chuckle was a bit smoother now, she let it rumble in her chest just like her brother’s would.

“Don’t regret it. ‘m glad you had fun.” She purred.

“Oh… I almost forgot. I met Burnpaw.”

“Hmmm?” Wolfstar wasnt sure how she felt hearing his name, his indecisiveness and lack of faith in her still rubbed her the wrong way. But she remembered how truly nice it was to be around him as apprentices, someone quiet and agreeable.

“He said that he knew you were injured.”

A spike of cold shot through her heart, but Lynxpaw soothed her with a few licks to her face.

“He didn’t tell anyone. But he asked me to tell you that he wants to talk. Whenever you feel better. He said he’ll be waiting for you at the abandoned nest. He said he’d be there every evening, at sunset.” She whispered hurriedly, glancing at the entrance.

Wolfstar stayed quiet, mulling over her next move. In the stillness Lynxpaw began to fidget. The older cat shot her a sharp look.

“I… I didn’t tell Shadowpaw about this.” She admitted, looking so guilty for such a meager offense. “And I don’t think we should… tell Shadowpaw.”

Wolfstar cocked her head, eyes neutral, waiting for her to continue.

“I love Shadowpaw I do… it’s just I don’t think he’d let you leave. Like obviously you’re the leader so he can’t really stop you, but I feel like it’d cause a big fight.” She mumbled, worrying her lip. “He’s very protective of us, especially you.”

The way she said it made Wolfstar feel flush, it was true but she caught off guard by how Lynxpaw worded it. The younger cat continued on, not even noticing.

“You could tell him afterwards. He’d be annoyed but he’d be fine with it.” She sighed, Wolfstar smiled and gave her a few reassuring licks. The movement used to cause pain to flare up in her neck, but now it was just a slight stretch. “I feel bad saying this…”

“Let me think.” She murmured into her friend’s soft fur. “Don’t worry.”

Over the next several days, Wolfstar pushed Burnpaw to the back of her mind, only mulling his words over when it was late at night. Most of her time was spent working on regaining her mobility, stretching and low bouts of exercise throughout the day. Shadowpaw and Lynxpaw protested at first, trying to keep her in her nest longer, but she put her foot down.

Snowspeckle, ever the good natured cat, cheered and sang for her from the sidelines. Her kits mewled and crawled around as she stretched in front of their mother. Though the chill was unpleasant, on calmer days she paddled in the shallow waters, just deep enough that she could barely touch the sandy bottom.

Of course Shadowpaw supervised this particular exercise, either swimming along side her or watching from a tall rock closer to shore, ready to dive in to save her.

His attention made her feel guilty.

She was training so hard, not to get back to her duties, but to be able to visit Burnpaw. She wanted to know what he was going to say, what did he want? Their last meeting had gone poorly, he didn’t believe in her or Saltclan and why should he? But if he didn’t believe in them, why bother her at all. His vision, she realized recently, had come true. A wolf struck down with a red collar around its neck surrounded by shadows, it was about her first death and Shadowpaw joining the clan.

Maybe he was gonna rub it in her face, it was so unlike him, but she’d been gone a long time. Who knows what he was like anymore.

Her legs started to burn so she paddled closer to shore, ready for a break. Shadowpaw met her halfway to the shore, letting her lean against him for a moment as she shook her coat out. The pair walked back to camp together, it was late in the day and Snowspeckle would need someone to watch her kits while she cooked. Tonight was the night she finally announced their names and everyone was excited.

Rather than cook, Shadowpaw took over kit sitting, which he was actually very good at. Their eyes had opened up earlier today so their crawling had gotten more purposeful. Shadowpaw let them clamber over him as he sat quietly in the nursery’s entrance.

Wolfstar helped Snowspeckle finish the stew and roasted mackerel she’d been preparing. She was slathering the fish with a gravy, marinade thing she’d learned in Oakclan. Finally once everyone was gathered and the dishes were sat out, the clan began eating.

The group remained close to the nursery to watch the kits, two little toms, snoozing in their nest as the sun set. Everyone eyed Snowspeckle during the meal, anxious for her announcement.

The white molly played coy, of course, and kept eating and chatting like normal. Once everyone had eaten their fill, she plucked each kit to place the in from of the clan.

“I thought very hard about their names ever since I gave birth.” She started. “In oakclan I know I would’ve named them something else, Blackkit and Whitekit. Simple names that could become more when they become warriors. But now that I’m here, having the first litter of Saltclan, I don’t want simple. I don’t want names that would blend in with the other clans.”

She paused and broke out into a big teary smile.

“I want their names to make every single cat know where they come from. Even if they leave the clan, even if they pass before becoming warriors. I want these names to be special.”

She paused again to pull the white tom forward.

“This is Ripplekit, he was born first and as such his name is based on the ripples in water you see when there’s a change.” She gave the whiny kit a lick, then pulled her other kit forward.

“This is Otterkit, I named him after the water loving creatures that I was told about as a kit. It’s not as deep of a name, but I always liked those stories and I think he would too.” As she finished speaking she looked up at the group, eyes misty, and waited.

Wolfstar stepped forward a wide smile as she began chant.

“Ripplekit! Otterkit!”

The others joined in.

“Ripplekit! Otterkit!”

It was almost half a moon after the gathering when Wolfstar saw Burnpaw again.

She finally felt strong enough, both for the journey and to defend herself in case it was a trap. Something Shadowpaw had brought up when she told him.

She’d decided against not telling him or Snowspeckle about the meeting. Both had made good points against it, especially the large tom, but she wasn’t swayed.

No matter what, she needed to know what he was going to say.

The night she set out she gave everyone firm instructions, do not follow her. Lynxpaw was in charge and would spend the time preparing herbs, Shadowpaw was to help her. If he disobeyed, Lynxpaw was to run ahead and warn her so she could send Burnpaw off without a confrontation.

She arrived just at sunset, scenting the air for that familiar pine scent Duskclan cats tended to have. Up ahead she found him, pacing between the tree lines, behind him was a dark silhouette.

Wolfstar froze and almost bolted, she was sure that was Jaggedstar on the fallen tree. But a heartbeat later she realized, it was Ashenstep.

Her sibling didn’t greet her, didn’t look back as Burnpaw exclaimed as she came into the clearing. Just an ear twitch let her know they were listening.

“You came!” Burnpaw smiled, awkwardly shuffling his paws. His eyes caught sight of her scar. “That looks bad, does it hurt?”

Yes it did, but she wasn’t telling him that.

“No,” She dismissed. And it was mostly true, as long as she did her stretches and ate her herbs, she was fine, she wasn’t even taking poppy seeds anymore. “Why did you ask to meet me?”

“I wanted to know if you were ok.”

“That’s not why,” She scoffed, flicking her tail. “Why are we here? Why is Ashenstep here?”

The cat in question finally glanced over at her, eyes sullen and red. They’d been crying.

“They cover for me when I come here, it’s less suspicious.” Burnpaw said. “At this point though I think half the clan knows what we’re doing. No one’s said anything yet.”

“They probably wish we just disappeared.” Ashenstep said dryly, a quick huff of a laugh was the only sign they were joking… mostly.

“I’m here because…” Burnpaw paused glancing nervously around. “I want to leave Duskclan.”

That was a shock, despite the clan’s harsh culture, most cats didn’t want to leave. Even Wolfstar still missed the rigid structure some days. She took a moment to think before replying.

“Did you have a vision?”

“That’s the thing…. I’ve never gotten vision before… I’m not good at cleric work.” He shuffled his paws again, eyes downcast.

“What about you dream about a wolf and a red collar?” Wolfstar asked.

“That was Darkfold’s dream, she has me pretend to get signs so Jaggedstar would think my training is going well.”

“She’s been covering for him,” Ashenstep interjected. “Ever since the fire.”

“So she never had a sign that you should be a cleric?” Wolfstar asked, incredulous.

“No, she said that because she was worried I’d be exiled for my mistake. She thought I would learn, but I’m not getting better, I make the same mistakes, I’ve never gotten a sign from Starclan. They don’t even speak to me when I’m at the moon spring, except for last moon.” Burnpaw explained. “It’s becoming so obvious I’m not fit for this role, it’s jeopardizing Darkfold’s reputation.”

“What did Starclan show you?” Her eyes narrowed.

“Footsteps leading to sand… I figured it meant that… you know I should join Saltclan.” He trailed off, glancing nervously at her face as he spoke. “I can’t keep dragging down the only people that help me.”

He stared at Ashenstep now, their back still turned, staring off at the sunset.

“And what makes you think we’d take you?” Wolfstar felt a sick twist in her stomach saying that, his distraught face giving her a bit of satisfaction.

“But I-“

“Take him.” Ashenstep said with a level a finality that rivaled their mother’s. “If anyone finds out him and Darkfold have been faking signs, he could be exiled and so could Darkfold. You know she wouldn’t survive as a loner.”

Wolfstar sat in the uncomfortable silence, regretting her callousness, despite their recent disagreement she knew she couldn’t turn Burnpaw away.

“Meet me at the border after the next gathering.” She said. “You’ll need to inform Jaggedstar of your decision, you’re not running away, we’re gonna do this the right way.”

Burnpaw gasped aloud, nearly collapsing with relief and tears in his eyes. Wolfstar continued on, ignoring his outburst. He curled his tail around himself as he wiped his eyes.

“Tell her about your dream, you don’t need to confess to everything.” She sighed, glancing at her sibling again, hoping they’d speak up again. “Ashenstep?”

The older cat slowly turned and jumped down from their perch on the log. They gave her a cheerless smile, eyes misty in the low light. They sat a few tail lengths across from her.

“I’ll miss you.” They said.

“You could come with me.”

“No I can’t leave my clan, they need me.”

There was a long silence, the wind picking up and rustling the nearly bare branches surrounding them.

“I understand.” She finally said, bowing her head.

“From now on, when we meet, it’ll be as rival clans.”

“I know. I’ll still love you, but I’ll have to put my clan first. You’re always welcome.” Her head stayed bowed as she spoke, the world around them fading as the weight of their words sink in.

Ashenstep finally broke, surging forward to wrap their sister in a hug, tears silently falling as they embraced her.

“You don’t know how proud I am of you.”

They stayed like that until night fully arrived, chilly winds cutting through their thick coats. Burnpaw sat quietly further away, tired eyes watching the stars. Finally parting, Wolfstar squared her shoulders and left, not looking back.

Moon 0

#clangen #warrior cats #wc #saltclan #saltclan moon update #moon 7

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