warriorsseverance

[warriorsseverance]

WARRIORS: SEVERANCE: CHAPTER 7

The rain drummed across the moor, with every cat exposed to the elements at their fullest. There was not a single tree along the border to shield them from the storm. Cats of Windclan and Thunderclan alike were lined up together, hiding in the reeds and heather that grew mingled together. Water streamed along their paws, swirling between the rocks.

There had been some frogs croaking somewhere, but they had spotted the warriors and now the world was an ominous quiet, with nothing but the sound of the rain to fill the cats’ ears. 

As promised, Badgerstar had led it himself. His warriors were standing together, apart from the Windclan cats. Nobody wanted anything to do with each other. Yet amongst the back, Stagpaw stood, occasionally glancing to the right of him, where the cats of Windclan huddled, pelts slicked down against the rain.

They were waiting for a Riverclan patrol to come by, when they would leap out and ambush them. Thunderclan would hold them at bay while Windclan marked the territory, successfully claiming them. Hopefully, they could finish their business before Riverclan brought reinforcements, but even Stagpaw was fairly confident they could do it. It was two clans against one clan, surely. 

His belly twisted with anticipation. Any moment now, he’d leap into battle. Who would he fight? He could fight a warrior, right? Badgerstar had taught him how to overpower a stronger enemy. Or maybe he’d fight the apprentices he had met during the gathering- Willowpaw, and Milkpaw, he thought. Stagpaw wasn’t too sure he liked the thought of fighting someone he’d spoken to in a friendly manner only a few days ago.

They’re not your friends. They’re your enemies now. He reminded himself, and fixed his jaw. His eyes glanced toward Badgerstar, imagining his father’s voice in his mind instead of his own. 

There were seven Thunderclan cats- Badgerstar, Slatefox, Oakscratch, Flashstrike, Redrabbit, Beechpaw, and himself. Their leader had calmed everyone’s worries, saying that they would make quick work of a measly Riverclan patrol.

He did not know the names of most of the Windclan cats, though he recognized Pythonstar and Snakepaw from the gathering, as well as Hawkears, of course. There were five others that he didn’t know. 

His thoughts drifted to the last time he’d trained with Badgerstar. He’d been taught how to leap onto the back of a larger cat, and how to hang on and deal the most damage. Then how to get himself back up if he had been knocked over, by landing a powerful kick to their vulnerable bellies. 

You did real good, son. You'll be a fine, fine warrior when the time comes.

He remembered Badgerstar’s words, and straightened up, lifting his chin. He’d make Badgerstar proud. He’d been an apprentice for three moons and had been training since before even that. I bet Beechpaw doesn’t know that move. He thought, feeling a rush as he risked a glance toward his pale brown denmate. 

Back when he’d trained with Badgerstar, they had been waiting for Jewel to arrive, hadn’t they? Badgerstar and Slatefox had just gone to see her, or so he thought. Slatefox had avoided his question. Maybe Badgerstar would tell him. He hadn’t seen Jewel in a while- Nearly a moon. Slatefox was always a little cagey when it came to Jewel, though, he reflected. Badgerstar would soothe his worries, he was positive. 

He shifted his paws. Why was it taking so long? They’d been standing out in the rain for ages. He couldn’t even tell the last time anyone had spoken a word. Or even moved. The older warriors were as rigid as stone, and Stagpaw couldn’t wrap his head around how they could remain so focused. Glancing at Flashstrike, who was crouched just a few tail-lengths away, Stagpaw tightened his brow and tried to match the stance of the warrior. 

One day, he’d be just like them. Badgerstar and Slatefox always said that he’d be a big cat once he was older. I’ll be big and strong. Maybe then I’ll be able to stand still like that. With a satisfied nod, he gathered his thoughts and concentrated on keeping his tail still, and his paws planted into the earth in such a way that he could spring off into battle in an instant.

Someone moved beside him, and from the corner of his eye, he saw Redrabbit give him an approving grin. Stagpaw hoped it was because of his stance- Maybe it wasn’t terrible. In response, he raised his chin up. Be proud! Be a Thunderclan cat! Badgerstar's voice spoke into his thoughts again, and he clung tightly to them.

Off in the distance, something caught Stagpaw’s blue-green eyes. He blinked, leaning forward as he strained to make it out. It was hard to see through the pouring rain. Droplets of water streamed down his face, dripping from his whiskers. Was it a Riverclan cat? He wasn’t sure. However, when the shape became closer, he noticed five other shapes beside it. He could see ears, and tails… 

“Don’t move.” 

The husky, low voice of Badgerstar pierced through the silence, just loud enough for cats to hear him before the Riverclan cats got within earshot. 

Stagpaw’s paws prickled. The Riverclan cats were walking so slow, though Stagpaw did not think they looked peaceful when their faces came into view. He leaned forward, pressing through the reeds. Anxiety rippled through his belly. How long will it take for them to notice us?

Badgerstar’s voice, even quieter now, filled his ears. “We ought to wait until they reach us, so that we can-”

Pythonstar suddenly leaped forward, with a battle cry- Completely disregarding the advice of Badgerstar. “Windclan and Thunderclan- Attack!” He screeched, sending off with a flying leap. 

The sudden shock of it all sent a rush through Stagpaw, and he found himself pouncing forward, hard on the heels of Slatefox. This was his first battle, and he had expected to be nervous, which he was- But not in a way that hindered him. His worries soon fell to the back of his mind. He’d trained his whole life for this moment. 

The Riverclan cats let out yowls of alarm when the Thunderclan and Windclan cats descended upon them. Stagpaw recognized Willowpaw amongst them. The little gray cat’s eyes were wide, and while she was older than Stagpaw, the fear illuminating her face made her look like a kit again. 

“Willowpaw- Run back! Find the hunting patrol out in the marshes- They won’t be far!” A silver she-cat yowled, giving the apprentice a shove. Willowpaw, without hesitation, hared away. 

A Windclan cat tried to go after her, but a long-furred tortoiseshell leaped onto their back, clinging on like a baby possum. The two cats rolled around in a mess of flying fur, and by the time Hawkears ran up to assist them, Willowpaw had vanished into the water- There was no chasing her now. 

Stagpaw, having noticed this, was about to try to give chase- it was what he’d been told to do, should he ever be in a raid like this- When claws dug into his flanks, dragging him backward as though he weighed nothing more than a kitten. He sank his own claws into the earth in a futile attempt to stay on the ground, but all it earned him was the feeling of his claws being yanked out painfully. 

“You stupid squirrel-chaser! We knew Windclan was up to something!” The cat, whom he recognized as Chasmecho, the deputy, snarled into his face. Her breath reeked of fish, and it filled Stagpaw’s nostrils with the stench. 

Stagpaw only flattened his ears and exhaled, baring his teeth in response. He was pinned beneath the small white she-cat- Her claws dug deep into his shoulders, and his belly was pressed against the earth. He knew he’d achieve nothing that way- Badgerstar had told him how he might find himself stuck, and the only thing to do was to outsmart your opponent. With a long breath out, Stagpaw flung his right shoulder against the ground as hard as he could, rolling over.

Chasmecho’s claws loosened, clearly not expecting that from a young apprentice. She uttered a hiss, and before she could regain her control, Stagpaw kicked at her belly with a series of fierce kicks, as though he were a little hare. The Riverclan deputy staggered backward, and he realized he sent her straight into Badgerstar.

“Good move, Stagpaw!” His father grinned, before ducking down and ramming his head into Chasmecho’s side, bowling her over. He easily overpowered the small cat- He towered over her, and Stagpaw was not surprised when she let out a yowl of pain. Realizing he was aimlessly standing still, the young tom cat leaped forward into the fray, back toward Chasmecho and Badgerstar. 

As though gears clicked in his mind, Stagpaw was running in an adrenaline-fueled state. His claws were unsheathed to the fullest, with bits of white fur from his previous encounter stuck between them. Along his flanks, deep claw marks had been dug where Chasmecho had dragged him back- The wound stung, but he barely noticed it now. 

Badgerstar had the Riverclan deputy pinned down, and was snarling in her face- Stagpaw could vaguely make out bits of crimson on his teeth, or flecked around his face in tiny little beads, though the rain very quickly sent it slithering down his pelt. The ground was slippery beneath them, and Stagpaw focused on not slipping when he watched Chasmecho kick out at Badgerstar’s belly, briefly disarming him and giving her a chance to slip away.

Stagpaw, without a second thought, lunged forward and landed hard on her back. With a screech, she fell to the ground, writhing as he dug his teeth into the back of her neck, sinking his claws into her spine, fighting to keep a hold. 

Badgerstar darted forward, surprisingly fast for a cat of his stature, aiming a sharp blow to her. Chasmecho’s fur was streaked with red now, yet she fought fiercely. She rolled over with him still on her back, and the two tussled on the ground in such a tight knot that Badgerstar could only snarl over them, unable to lunge forward out of worry for hitting his son.

Stagpaw’s sides burned as Chasmecho raked her claws down his pelt, and he let out a shriek as a particularly hard blow met the tip of his ear. Stagpaw could feel the skin tear, and he squeezed his eyes shut in an attempt to negate the pain- But with a deep breath, steeling himself, he prepared to bite for anything he could reach- But Chasmecho suddenly unhooked her claws from his pelt, and Stagpaw did not have time to react before he felt all four of her paws, and the paws of another cat slam into his chest, knocking both him off and the air out of his lungs.

He was sent skidding across the wet stones, heaving for breath. The world spun before him, and he fought to get to his paws. The sound of battle all around him filled his ears.

“Mark the territory!”

“Riverclan- Don’t let them win!”

But Stagpaw could not speak- He opened his jaws and heaved, feeling panic swirl through him. He couldn’t breathe!

More pawsteps filled his ears, above the sounds of battle cries and yowls. 

One voice- To him.

“This is no place for an apprentice!” The voice snarled, and still gasping for air, Stagpaw saw that it was the same silver she-cat who had told Willowpaw to retrieve help, Mistymire. Her ears, one of which missing, were pinned against her head. She stood over him.

With a final heave, he finally sucked air back into his lungs and rolled onto his paws on one fluid move, panting. Mistymire’s eyes widened with surprise when he lunged toward her, slicing his claws across her chest. She gasped, stumbling backward, before looking up at him with anger in her gaze.

She reached out to slash at Stagpaw’s nose, but he ducked. His breath was back to normal now- He did not wish to think about what would’ve happened had he still been on the ground. His claws were stained red, but not for long, for the rain washed any sign of the battle away, into the water below. Some parts of the water swirled with crimson.

Mistymire snarled at him. “This isn’t Thunderclan’s fight!”

Stagpaw did not reply- Instead, he sank his teeth into her foreleg when she tried to swipe at him once more. She let out a furious hiss, before twisting around and running.

Triumph warmed Stagpaw’s insides, and he raised his hackles and hissed as loud as he could. I’m a real Thunderclan cat! He thought. He’d defeated his first enemy! 

“Good fighting!” A voice trilled behind him. 

Fully prepared to see it was another Riverclan cat, he unsheathed his claws, only to turn and realize it was Snakepaw, the same apprentice from the gathering, crouched beside a boulder. 

“Thanks,” he panted, puffing out his chest. 

“We’re gonna win this!” Snakepaw went on, green eyes glowing with pride, watching the battling cats around. There were tufts of fur between her claws, and a patch of fur was missing from her shoulder. “We outnumber them!”

“Not for long,” Stagpaw warned, remembering Willowpaw.

Snakepaw just snorted, rubbing her cheek to spread Windclan scent on a reed, as several other Windclan cats were doing- Instinctively, Stagpaw reached out to do the same, but pulled back when he remembered it was only Windclan’s territory.

Stagpaw flexed his claws. He’d watch over her, and make sure no Riverclan cat tried to hurt her while she marked their new territory- The battling was so tight that he didn’t think he could get his claws in anywhere else.

He craned his neck. Redrabbit and Slatefox had cornered a russet-furred feline, tails raised. They were not very injured at all, perhaps sporting a few scratches each. Where was Badgerstar, though?

White fur flashed past him, and his eyes widened. Chasmecho! He shifted his shoulders and arched his back, but she did not seem to notice him. The pelt of Badgerstar blurred past faster, and Stagpaw leaped backward to avoid his father, his eyes wide. 

“That’s your dad, right?” Snakepaw chimed in from where she was, green eyes wide. 

Stagpaw nodded, watching his father crash into Chasmecho, sending her to the ground.

“Retreat. There is no need for more blood to be spilled.” Badgerstar snarled into her ear- Stagpaw could only just make the words out over the battle cries. 

Chasmecho, blood steadily dripping from several wounds on her pelt, spat red at him. “This was not your fight!” 

“Retreat.” He pressed, eyes chips of brown ice.

Chasmecho narrowed her own eyes with fury. “We always thought you were a sensible leader.” She spat out the word sensible as though it were venom.

The Riverclan deputy raised her voice to a loud caterwaul. “Riverclan- Retreat! This is a fight we cannot win!”

Badgerstar let her go, and she stumbled away.

Pythonstar suddenly leaped in. “That was my call to make!” He said, whiskers twitching unhappily.

Badgerstar shrugged. “No cats needed to die.” 

The Windclan leader’s tail lashed. “No Windclan cats- The world would be a fine place without some Riverclan fish-cats!” He rolled his eyes.

Stagpaw could distinguish the disapproval in his father’s gaze from afar; even through the rain, it was so obvious. 

Riverclan cats were untangling themselves from the fight.

“Should we chase them?” Beechpaw called out.

Pythonstar opened his mouth to answer, but Badgerstar cut him off. “No. We have won. Let them go lick their wounds.”

He turned to the Windclan leader. “We ought to leave. There’s a second patrol coming.”

Pythonstar looked as though he would’ve preferred to say something else, but instead, he dipped his head with a purr. “Yes, yes- Always so practical!” He tapped Badgerstar’s head, almost playfully.

Badgerstar gave him a warning growl.

Stagpaw ran over to Slatefox, who he saw coming closer to them. 

“We won!” Stagpaw grinned, tail up high. 

Slatefox nodded with a little chuckle, draping his tail over his son’s back. However, Stagpaw felt a prickle of discomfort when he noticed the dark look within Slatefox’s yellow eyes, which were locked onto Badgerstar and Pythonstar.

“Are you hurt?” Slatefox said abruptly, looking over at Stagpaw- The look in his eyes vanished once he turned his gaze, concern taking over his expression. He anxiously sniffed Stagpaw’s pelt. “I smell blood!” 

Stagpaw glanced down at his chest, then his paws- “I’m fine.” He said, tail twitching, even though his shoulders and flanks were burning with pain from where Chasmecho had dug her needle-sharp claws into. The pouring rain only aggravated it more. 

“You fought the clan deputy, Stagpaw!” Slatefox turned his yellow gaze fully onto Stagpaw, looking immensely worried now. “You’re too young to get yourself into that kind of a fight. You could’ve gotten seriously injured.” 

Despite his father’s stern words, Stagpaw couldn’t help but feel pride warm his belly. I fought the Riverclan deputy! And won!

However, even he had to admit, “Badgerstar was there, too.” 

Slatefox only sighed, shaking his head. “Once we get back to Thunderclan, you’re headed straight to Snowfleck. We have a long trek ahead of us.”

Stagpaw only nodded, his gaze trailing over to Badgerstar, who had been helping an injured Flashstrike up, with Redrabbit closely behind his brother. 

Flashstrike was waving them away, though Stagpaw could see the gratefulness in the tom’s eyes, mixed with the embarrassment- He was limping heavily, and Stagpaw figured he must’ve slipped. 

Oakscratch was muttering something to Beechpaw, who had a nicked ear, just a few tail-lengths away from the boulder where Snakepaw was perched behind, just where he had last seen her. Stagpaw blinked, watching her wash a scratch on her haunch. Other Windclan warriors were gathered around, their voices becoming more and more audible as the rain began to stop pouring.

Lifting his head, Stagpaw felt the raindrops on his face begin to recede. 

“See? It must be a sign from your precious Starclan!” Pythonstar boasted from behind him, raising his head with a grin plastered on his features.

Badgerstar, with Flashstrike leaning on his shoulder, shook his head. “Starclan or not, this was all due to our strength.” Stagpaw thought he could see a flicker of pride cross his eyes, but it soon blinked out of sight when the black and white tom raised his shaggy head, yowling “Thunderclan! With me!” 

Stagpaw cast a glance back at Snakepaw, realizing she was looking at him. He waved his tail, hoping to send a friendly gesture of farewell toward her. She grinned cheekily, waving her own tail back at him, before hopping up and loping over to him. 

“You fought well! Maybe you should teach me a move or two.” Glancing back at her clan, she leaned closer to him and lowered her voice. “You know what- meet me at Eastern Point at moon-high!” 

Just as quickly as she had approached him, she grinned again and twisted around, hopping up toward her clanmates. Stagpaw’s ears were flushed, visible even in the pouring rain. One thought instantly struck him- It was against the code. Badgerstar wouldn't approve. 

No- Slatefox wouldn't approve. Stagpaw instantly corrected himself. Badgerstar had Jewel, of all cats. She's different, he thought, biting his tongue with a conflicting sense of confusion and enticement. However, despite Badgerstar’s many assurances, Slatefox had always hissed about Jewel being an issue.

Turning away, Stagpaw realized his clan was already leaving with hurried steps. One thought stuck with him- Slatefox wouldn't approve, and Stagpaw did not wish to upset his father. The young tomcat picked up his pace, ignoring the sting of the scratches on his shoulders as he moved to catch up to his clan. 

[warriorsseverance]

WARRIOR CATS: SEVERANCE: CHAPTER 6

pretend this is on time.

ps i will be making a fancy header for this soon

AO3 LINK

Having had virtually no time to himself and little to spare as it was, Stagpaw was doing his best to eat the scrawny little vole he'd fished out of the fresh-kill pile as quickly as possible. Thunderclan had been buzzing with murmurs and excitement all day, and every cat was preparing for the news that Badgerstar had brought them only two days ago.

Two sunrises after they had returned from the gathering, their leader had explained the proposition that Pythonstar had made, and while acknowledging Windclan and Thunderclan's distaste for one another, told everyone that it was in their best interest. It turned out that the Windclan leader wanted to share Eastern Point, but in the quarter-moon that they had been allied, things had quickly snowballed into something much larger.

Hushed murmurs moved around the camp in a chorus of speculation. Most cats didn't really know what was happening, other than that they were preparing to launch an attack onto Riverclan territory, apparently to take land- Not for themselves, however. What got more ears turned than the fact they didn't share a border with Riverclan was the fact that they were helping Windclan get the territory.

But we hate Windclan! Some cats would hiss in hushed voices to one another when they were certain nobody else had heard. We don't even have a border with Riverclan! I don't want to eat any fish! They whispered to one another, but Stagpaw had heard it all.

He wasn't sure of what to make of it himself. Whatever it meant was unimportant to him, aside from the fact that they were now training harder than ever to prepare.

Badgerstar had called a clan meeting early into the morning, with Slatefox beside him. Neither tom seemed to have slept- Stagpaw had usually woken up when Badgerstar came into sleep. They must've been talking all night, for they seemed rather set in this plan- Thunderclan was to ally with Windclan.

No cat seemed content with it, and the tension in the air had been so thick that Stagpaw could’ve sliced his claws through it. He himself found a strange sense of excitement at the thought of a fight, even if he wasn’t necessarily the most confrontational- Badgerstar said it was what they were to do, and Stagpaw accepted that as truth. If Badgerstar wanted it done, then it would be. He didn’t know too much about the inter clan politics inside of Thunderclan, even if he’d been there quite a while. He stuck with Badgerstar and Slatefox, for they were the only ones who ever gave him a reason to listen to them- They had saved him, and he’d always be grateful for that.

Right now, Badgerstar and Slatefox were having a meeting on Eastern Point to discuss things. Stagpaw was itching to hear what they had to say- For once, he was interested in the thought of a fight, even if he didn’t really want to kill anyone. Beechpaw and Adderpaw were already gloating about what they’d do, so shouldn’t Stagpaw be just as excited? It could be his chance to show Thunderclan how loyal he was, if he fought well. Maybe they’d finally like him. Oakscratch could look at him and give him an approving nod, instead of a scowl, and Badgerstar would parade around the camp and tell everyone how proud he was. Stagpaw’s stomach twisted with hope. He’d take anything. Even a little smile would be nice.

He had to admit that he was a little bit sore from all the training he’d been doing. Under Badgerstar’s orders, he’d gone out with Redrabbit nearly every day, occasionally with the other apprentices- Oakscratch never let Beechpaw go easy on him.

Stagpaw had managed to get a pretty good whack on Beechpaw, though. He remembered the fight, and felt the glow in his belly strengthen.

Thoughts returning to what was in front of him, he tore off the last chunk of flesh from the vole carcass, swallowing it and rising to his paws. He’d scooped earth over it, before rising to his paws. Badgerstar and Slatefox should be back any moment. Redrabbit had wanted him to spar with Bisonpaw once he had finished, and now Stagpaw craned his neck to scope out the large brown tomcat from around the camp.

There! Stagpaw spotted his denmate right inside the medicine den, beside the white-flecked gray fur of Snowfleck, their crabby old medicine cat. Confusion wormed within his pelt. Was Bisonpaw hurt? I hope he doesn’t miss the battle. I still need to train with him!

Padding curiously over to the little cave, he poked his head in, eyes straining as he willed them to adjust to the gloom.

The two were hunched over the herb store, and Snowfleck was murmuring something while pointing at some green leaves. Of course. I suppose he isn’t hurt.

“…Now, that is called chervil. You see those fern-like green leaves? Even my old eyes can. It’s always growing around rocks, so your best bet would be to look for some around the Burnt Woods. There’s plenty of rocks there.”Stagpaw was incredulous to hear her speaking in such a way- He’d never heard her say a kind word to anyone! Bisonpaw was leaned in, and even Stagpaw could see the way he drank in every word. It seemed Bisonpaw really did want to become a healer. What’s Oakscratch gonna say?

“What’s it used for?” Bisonpaw tilted his head.

Snowfleck chuckled, wrapping her thick gray tail around her paws. It was the most cheerful Stagpaw had ever seen the old cat. Maybe all she needed was someone to be interested in her job.

“Well, it’s helpful to bring a bellyache down, but you can use it for infections, too. Don’t be foolish and use that unless you have to, horsetail should be the first thing you reach for, though, or goldenrod-” She broke off, having noticed Stagpaw. The sour expression returned, and he heaved a sigh when she went on. “Hey! Get your paws in here, Stagpaw. Use your words, instead of just standing there!”

Stagpaw dipped his head apologetically. “Sorry, Snowfleck- I was just looking for Bisonpaw.”

“Well he’s here, isn’t he? Did you expect him to see your shadow before saying anything?” She snapped.

Bisonpaw blinked over at Stagpaw. “Oh, the training. I forgot. Sorry, Stagpaw. Snowfleck was just gonna show me a thing or two…” He trailed off, and his eyes lit up. “Hey, Snowfleck, why don’t we get more herbs for you? You’re missing… Tansy, right? The little flowers you use for coughs?”

Snowfleck seemed to almost snap a remark at Stagpaw, but upon Bisonpaw’s proposition, she didn’t seem to be able to stop a look of affection from spreading across her features.

“Bring me some fennel, while you’re at it. Meadowpurr is complaining about being sore- You remember what that is, yes?” She rasped, attention now turned to Bisonpaw, to Stagpaw’s relief. Snowfleck may seem soft, but there was nothing nice about her- Well, maybe not to Bisonpaw.

Bisonpaw nodded, eyes wide. “I remember.”

As Stagpaw was about to creep away and wait for Bisonpaw- a little disappointed at having to pick plants instead of training, hoping that Bisonpaw could still help him- when Snowfleck snapped after him, “And you! Don’t go dilly-dallying around! I need these herbs. I better not hear that you crushed them instead!.”

“Yes, Snowfleck.” Stagpaw said, fighting to keep his tone even. He couldn’t do anything without some cat finding an insult in his actions.

Standing at the entrance to the little cave with a furrowed brow and disgruntled expression, it was only a matter of time before Bisonpaw bumbled out, looking amiable.

As Stagpaw followed behind him, feeling less than sorry about leaving the camp, he tilted his head. “Are we still gonna train? Redrabbit wanted us to.”

Bisonpaw responded as he climbed up the slope with a sigh. “Yeah. I guess.” He paused, before looking back at Stagpaw. “Can you believe we’re helping Windclan? Going into battle for them?”

Stagpaw blinked, hopping up after his denmate. He’d been thinking about the same thing, only he was a little bit excited. It gave him an opportunity to prove himself to his clan. “I guess it’s a little weird.” He countered. “But isn’t it good? We’re allies with them. Badgerstar said it was the best way to get through the Leaf-bare.”

“Oakscratch said that they were using us, and that Badgerstar was behaving like a bee-brain if he thought Windclan were trustworthy.” Bisonpaw said, tone conveying surprisingly little emotion.

Stagpaw’s brown ears pricked with surprise. “Badgerstar knows what he’s doing.” He responded instantly, without even thinking. He’d always thought that Oakscratch was such a loyal warrior! It shocked him to hear that he could’ve said something like that about their leader. Even if it wasn’t the worst thing he could’ve said, Stagpaw would expect it toward himself, and not Badgerstar. A little part of him burned with defensiveness. Badgerstar seemed to know what to do whenever they had problems, so this shouldn’t be any different.

Bisonpaw just shrugged it off, picking up the pace. “I guess.”

Stagpaw’s pelt prickled. Bisonpaw was always pretty hard to talk to, but why’d he have to say that about Badgerstar? I won’t doubt him! He promised, and instead focused on the silence. It was fine to be quiet. Maybe better than talking. He liked Bisonpaw, and didn’t want to say something to ruin their friendship, even if it had unsettled Stagpaw.

The two walked without a word, with Bisonpaw seeming completely unfazed by their conversation, despite the disagreement.

Stagpaw let out a sigh through his nose.

The silence continued until Bisonpaw abruptly stopped, his black nose twitching. Stagpaw nearly crashed into him, having been lost in thought, slamming his paws into the ground.

“What is it?” Stagpaw questioned, shoulders slacking. “Is this where the plants are?” All the plants looked and smelled the same to him. All he could see was green, and all he could smell was… Well, green.

Bisonpaw paused before answering. “No- it’s not a plant.” The fur along his spine rose, and his brown eyes widened. “It’s Windclan!”

Confusion filled him. “What?” However, when he raised his muzzle, opening his mouth to scent the air thoroughly, the distinct smell of Windclan was clear amongst the forest. “Bisonpaw, relax- We’re allies with them, remember? Badgerstar said so.”

Bisonpaw frowned. “I don’t trust them.”

Stagpaw’s ears twitched. “Nevermind. Let's just bring them to camp.”

“No- We should find out where they think they’re going.”

“I thought you didn’t like to fight.” Stagpaw’s tail flicked, narrowing his eyes.

“I don’t. We don’t have to hurt them.” Bisonpaw returned, tone as even as ever. “What if they’re launching an attack on us?”

“There’s only one of them.” He retorted. “No one cat is going to launch a battle.”

Windclan were their allies! They wouldn’t attack them. The Windclan cats he met at the gathering had seemed friendly, not too different from themselves, if only in the fact they had lean bodies built for speed, opposed to strength.

“Let’s just find them.” Bisonpaw’s voice lowered, and he slunk forward. They were out of earshot from the Windclan cat, but they still shouldn’t have spoken so loud- Stagpaw realized that with a wince. Maybe Bisonpaw’s instincts were stronger than his own.

Stagpaw followed after Bisonpaw, his own big paws clearing the ground easily. He was making sure not to step on any leaves, paying extra attention to the surroundings, whilst Bisonpaw weaved easily through the woods. The Windclanner was moving fast. It was a white she-cat, with a few brown-and-black patches. There was an urgency in their movements, though the cat was awkwardly maneuvering through the woods, as though it were their first time.

Which it might be. Stagpaw reflected. Maybe he wasn’t doing so bad, if this was how a true newcomer to the woods would do.

Expecting just to follow them quietly, to see where they were going, he was surprised when Bisonpaw leapt forward.

“Hey! You! Windclanner!” He hissed. Once again, Stagpaw was surprised. Bisonpaw was usually such a quiet cat, rarely speaking unless spoken to. Yet, with the presence of someone he perceived as a threat to Thunderclan, he moved with clarity and assurance.

Stagpaw followed, hurrying to seem just as confident. He just didn’t feel that this Windclan cat was a threat- Why were they all alone? Why were they trying to go so fast?

The Windclan cat whipped around, green eyes wide. Briefly frightened, the fur on her back settled slightly, until she heaved a sigh of relief. “I’m not invading- I swear!” She defended herself, stepping backward. “Our clan needs Thunderclan’s help. The deal, remember? Well, we’re going for Riverclan now.”

“Now? The meeting just happened!” Stagpaw asked, incredulous. He’d been expecting to wait a few more days! Were Badgerstar and Slatefox even back at camp?

“It’s been over for hours- Pythonstar isn’t happy. He’s held up the attack all for you.” The Windclan cat warned, tail waving through the air. “He sent me to bring you- You have to bring me to your camp!”

“Why would we-” Bisonpaw began, tone harsh, before Stagpaw cut him off.

“It’s a deal, Bisonpaw!” He urged. “We have to.”

Bisonpaw’s brown eyes were narrowed with suspicion. “What if it’s a trap?” he asked, instantly.

“A trap? Of course not! Who do you think we are?” The Windclan cat snapped, ears pinned against her head. “We are allies.”

Pushing past Bisonpaw, Stagpaw nodded. This cat sounded perfectly reasonable, and he thought Badgerstar would be upset with him if this cat really was speaking the truth. It’s just one Windclan cat, after all. However, Bisonpaw’s words had rustled him- Again. He tried to focus on his own thoughts. What’s the harm in just checking what they want?

“Follow me,” He said, uncomfortably aware of how nervous he sounded, when he was trying to sound confident. You have to make Thunderclan look good! What if Bisonpaw tells Oakscratch?

Instantly, he cast a guilty look toward his denmate. Bisonpaw wouldn’t do that. It was wrong to think that way.

Tail bobbing behind him as he wove through the woods, he relished in the fact he could go slow, since they now had someone newer to the forest than him to lead. Bisonpaw followed behind them, expressionless. Stagpaw focused on keeping his chin up and his movements confident. You’re my son! Act like it! He imagined Badgerstar telling him. He’d do anything to make his father proud, even if he wasn’t completely sure that was what he wanted.

The three of them made it to the edge of the camp when Stagpaw heard a voice.

“Intruder! Stagpaw, Bisonpaw- Why’d you bring a Windclan cat here?” Blackwhisker, who had been on guard, leapt down from the tree he had been perched on. His whiskers quivered with anger, most prominently his singular black whisker, of which he’d been named for.

Stagpaw’s eyes widened, and he glanced at Bisonpaw. Bisonpaw would be angry at him- Sure enough, there was a flicker of irritation in his gaze when he looked back at Stagpaw. Stagpaw’s stomach tightened with guilt. He hadn’t thought about what cats would think if he led a warrior of another clan to their camp, regardless of whether they were supposedly allies, or not. That was what Bisonpaw had wanted.

He opened his mouth to respond, before Bisonpaw stepped forward.

“This cat wanted to speak with Badgerstar. It was my idea.” He said quietly, not looking back at Stagpaw, who watched him, feeling a spark of surprise erupt in his stomach.

Blackwhisker, who Stagpaw reminded himself was Beechpaw and Adderpaw’s father, looked at Bisonpaw carefully, before shaking his head. As if he was surprised it wasn’t Stagpaw.

“You ought to know better, Bisonpaw.”

Bisonpaw did not respond.

Instead, the Windclan cat stepped forward. Her ears were flattened, eyes irritated. “Can you please find your leader for me? We’ve been waiting long enough for you!”

Confusion flickered in the blue eyes of Blackwhisker, but it faded into an evenly cold expression very quickly. “Badgerstar is not at camp.” He said brusquely.

“Then bring Slatefox!” The Windclan cat’s tail lashed.

“Slatefox has not returned yet, either.” Blackwhisker responded, eyes narrowed. “You can tell me instead.”

Stagpaw nervously shifted from paw-to-paw. Blackwhisker was the next best cat to talk to, sure. He was almost as respected as Badgerstar himself, or Oakscratch.

The Windclan cat did not seem pleased. “Can’t you… Find them? It’s important, and Pythonstar ordered me to speak to Badgerstar, not you.” She snapped stubbornly.

“They aren’t at camp.” Blackwhisker responded, voice carrying an edge. “You can wait, or you can leave, if speaking to me is not enough.”

“Pythonstar will not be-”

“What is the meaning of this?” A new voice joined in, loud and clear. Thank Starclan! Stagpaw thought, turning his head around to meet Badgerstar, with Slatefox trailing behind him. Slatefox carried a mouse by its tail. They must have been seeing Jewel. Stagpaw reflected. There was no way they had spent all that time hunting, only to come back with one meager little mouse.

Blackwhisker, Bisonpaw, and the Windclan cat all spun, eyes widening in both relief and surprise.

Blackwhisker dipped his head respectfully, while the Windclan cat squared her shoulders.

“You have to send a battle patrol- Now!” She said, raising her nose.

Badgerstar did not move his head, though his gaze flickered to Blackwhisker’s before he responded, clearly confused. “Pythonstar told us there would be no battle for two sunrises.” He responded evenly, looking down at the Windclan cat.

“…Well, he decided that it should happen now.” The Windclan cat seemed to be groping for the words to answer him. She’d lost some of her confidence, it seemed. Now she just looked unsure, though she met Badgerstar’s gaze with a challenge.

A brief flash of anger passed through Badgerstar’s expression, though he did so with his face turned to the side, where really only Stagpaw could see. When he looked back at the Windclan cat, he tilted his head. “What is your name?”

“Hawkears.” She responded, eyes narrowing. “I don’t see how that’s…”

“Well, Hawkears. I advise you to run back to Windclan. Tell Pythonstar Thunderclan would appreciate… Some sort of warning, perhaps a day in advance?” He said, voice beginning to get a little annoyed.

Hawkears, whom Stagpaw reflected, was named rather appropriately, for her ears were black and feathery, nodded, beginning to walk away, before pausing and looking back at the Thunderclan cats. “Are you sending a patrol?” She asked apprehensively, raising a paw midstep.

“I will lead it myself.” Badgerstar waved his bushy tail dismissively.

At that, Hawkears seemed satisfied with his answer.

“Blackwhisker, escort her to the border.” Badgerstar said, beginning to climb down the rocks leading to their camp.

Blackwhisker paused, as though about to interject, before lowering his head and following after Hawkears. The two very quickly disappeared amongst the foliage, though Stagpaw could swear he could still see the white parts of Hawkears’ fur.

Badgerstar did not look too concerned, but Stagpaw noticed the exasperation within every step that he made. Slatefox watched him go down, and nodded for Bisonpaw to follow him. Meanwhile, the deputy looked toward Stagpaw.

When the two cats were in the camp, with Badgerstar ambling toward the Mossystone, Slatefox spoke. “What happened?” He asked, gray tabby tail twitching. He had dropped his mouse at his paws.

Stagpaw glanced down at the camp over the hollow. He did not know how to respond, for his paws itched to know what had happened with Slatefox and Badgerstar instead, and all of Windclan. Bisonpaw seemed so unsure of it. That made him unsure. Why was the battle happening today? The unanswered questions floated around his mind, and he

“What’s happening with Windclan?” He blurted out.

Meanwhile, beneath them; “May all cats old enough to catch their own prey gather beneath the Mossystone for a clan meeting!”

Slatefox’s ear flicked, and he sank his haunches down against the earth. “…We will get through it.” He said quietly, looking down into the clan’s camp. Stagpaw’s ear flicked. How much of an answer was that, really? All it did was twist an uneasy knot in his belly.

What had really happened in the meeting?

“Where’d you go? With Dad?” Stagpaw didn’t like the look in Slatefox’s eye, and was desperate to hear an answer that would settle his feelings. They could talk about something nice. He crept close to his father, sitting beside him and looking right at him.

But Slatefox did not respond, his brow still furrowed. Instead, he wrapped his tail around Stagpaw, and Stagpaw leaned against him. Badgerstar had seemed so confident. But Slatefox was acting strangely. He did not like the way it made him feel. Slatefox seemed like he didn’t know what would happen, and he always knew what to do.

The two did not speak again, listening in silence as Badgerstar led the rest of the clan up and out. When they passed by Slatefox and Stagpaw, they followed their clan, keeping in the back.

Slatefox’s mouse lay discarded and forgotten behind them, with the first of the night-time shadows cast upon the little mammal that lay unmoving, with its tiny paws in the air. The droplets that began to pour down from the sky only drenched its fur, but the battle patrol was too far to care about any old mouse by now.

[warriorsseverance]

CHAPTER 6 IS COMING!!!!!!! and so is chapter 7 soon. Just forcing my friend to read over it for mistakes 😇

[warriorsseverance]

HEY just letting everyone know I've set up a QNA for Severance!!! Feel free to drop a question down!

[warriorsseverance]

WARRIOR CATS: SEVERANCE: CHAPTER 5

Badgerstar had left Stagpaw with a group of apprentices just a moment ago, before making his way toward the crowd of cats beneath the Overturned Log. There, the leaders, deputies and some other senior warriors were congregating, discussing something about preparing for Leaf-bare.

Oakscratch and Slatefox were already there, and Badgerstar slipped in between them, brushing his tail against Slatefox’s spine in greeting. 

Now, Oakscratch- That was a cat that Badgerstar felt bad for. He was the most senior warrior in the clan, and quite a respectable one at that. He was a stickler for the rules and didn't seem to have a connection with his clanmates, but he wasn't always like that. 

Badgerstar recalled when he was a new warrior, Oakscratch and his mate, Twigwhistle, had had their first litter of kits. Their names had been Dewkit and Volekit, and they'd been good, playful kits. When they became apprentices was when the entire clan’s biggest nightmare had happened. 

The two apprentices had wandered out during the night, determined to find herbs for the medicine cat as they were in the midst of a whitecough outbreak, and had ventured beyond clan borders. When a search party had finally been sent out, they found the two torn to shreds by a gang of rogues who'd been passing through. 

Oakscratch and Twigwhistle had been devastated, of course. Oakscratch changed, after that day, and his hatred for rogue cats seemed to stem from there. Then poor Twigwhistle had passed away when she had given birth to Bisonpaw.

Badgerstar would've made him his deputy, but he felt that Oakscratch's ideals were against his own. It had been his dream to lead alongside Slatefox, anyway. Regardless, Oakscratch was a fine warrior and Thunderclan was lucky to have him.

“I am sure that Riverclan will not suffer, with all their fish.” Morningstar's voice echoed into his thoughts.

Clamstar's pelt rippled at the remark, but the silver and white she-cat lifted her chin. “Naturally not, though fish isn't our only source of food. We hunt in the marshes when the water freezes- We are the most Resourceful of clans.”

Pinedale, the Shadowclan deputy, snorted. “At least your territory isn't riddled with snakes. It takes a lot of skill not to lose cats to them on the daily.”

Badgerstar let out an inward sigh. The arguments between Shadowclan and Riverclan were never something he missed. He could happily go without them. It was always over such foolish things, too. 

“Windclan ought to be here soon,” Badgerstar interrupted them with a rumbling meow. “It is nearly moon-high.” 

Morningstar wrinkled her nose with a little snort, before shaking out her fur. She clearly didn't appreciate being interrupted. “Well, they appear to be arriving as we speak.”

Badgerstar and the rest of the cats in the circle looked toward the west side of the valley. Sure enough, a group of cats descended down. Badgerstar narrowed his eyes, and straightened. 

Thunderclan and Windclan were at a time of peace. Badgerstar had made sure of that during his leadership. He didn't need any unnecessary conflict. 

Pythonstar slid through the crowd, muddy-brown Bengal fur easily distinguished him from the cats around him. He walked toward the other leaders, his deputy, Valleyview, close behind.

Slatefox seemed to notice Badgerstar’s stiffened posture, and leaned toward him. “You alright?”

Badgerstar looked at him, swiping his tongue along his chin. “Of course. We're at peace, after all.” 

Peace.

Pythonstar finally made it, and his mottled tail bobbed in the air as he dipped his head.

“Greetings, friends.” Pythonstar purred, green gaze passing along the cats in the circle. “I apologize for my clans tardiness, I sincerely do. Nonetheless, shall we get started?”

Morningstar was quick to nod her head, and leapt onto the Overturned Log. Pythonstar and Prancingstar followed, with Clamstar behind him.

Badgerstar gave Slatefox a final look before lifting his head and springing onto it.

“. . . The gathering must commence!”

Badgerstar lifted his gaze up to the stars for a moment, admiring the moon while collecting his thoughts as Morningstar conducted the gathering. There were few cats that irritated him more than she did, thinking she was the most important cat in all the clans.

“I'll begin, though I don't have very much to say. Shadowclan is doing well- We scented some fox, though we chased it away.” She finished primly, nodding for the next leader to step up.

Just as Clamstar was about to speak, Prancingstar chuffed with irritation. “Yes, chased it into Skyclan territory! Our warriors had to chase it deeper into the mountains. We are strong enough to handle that, but we have a new litter of kits- Foxes are never a welcome sight in Skyclan!”

Morningstar tipped her head back, curling her bushy tail over her paws. “Seems you got it all sorted out, then. I don't understand what the commotion is for.”

Badgerstar impatiently shifted his weight from paw to paw. When Prancingstar opened his mouth to retort something, Badgerstar quickly interjected before an argument could ensue. “It seems there is little more to discuss with Skyclan and Shadowclan. I am pleased to hear that the fox was dealt with.” He rumbled, stepping up to the edge of the log.

He continued. “Thunderclan is preparing for the encroaching Leaf-bare. While we have upped our hunting patrols, Slatefox and I have made sure to keep our borders protected in the process. I advise the other clans to do the same. Leaf-bare brings out the worst of the rogues, and we must all be prepared.” Thunderclan was working hard to keep its fresh-kill pile high… But it was evident that their efforts were in vain. Every day, he felt that the clan was getting hungrier. 

Badgerstar knew it was a little hypocritical to warn against rogues when his own personal stance toward them was friendly- But it certainly helped to keep his reputation the way it always was. He knew outsiders were simply cats out to survive, just like the rest of them. They knew not to bother the clans. Like Jewel, for example. She always told him if she spotted new cats lingering around his borders, anyway. 

Morningstar would not meet his gaze, while Clamstar and Prancingstar appeared uninterested. Pythonstar nodded, his eyes watchful. “Certainly.” He purred. “Leaf-bare is a season of… Unity, between the clans.” Badgerstar narrowed his own eyes, feeling the pelt along his spine ripple as though wind blew along it.

Never between us.

He shook out his pelt, and forced a smile. “Of course.” Pythonstar dipped his head, and Badgerstar stepped back to allow the marbled tom to step forward.

“I hate to repeat the things that have already been said, but Windclan is flourishing. We have noticed there to be many more rabbits than usual. We are strong, and we found that we have done this without waiting for any starry warriors to guide our paws. Windclan cats choose their own destiny- And we choose to be strong.”

Clamstar let out a growl at the mention of Starclan, a flash of outrage crossing her eyes as though she couldn't fathom he had the nerve to speak of their ancestors like that. She quickly spoke, with a glare toward Pythonstar. Badgerstar held back a purr of amusement at the hatred she seemed to hold toward Pythonstar.

“ Riverclan is doing fantastic. Our lake is blessed by our ancestors, filled with enough fish for every cat to go around twice. Our ancestors will not allow Riverclan to go hungry, as we make sure to uphold our beliefs for them. We advise that every clan is sure to honor Starclan in any way, before you all face the anger they hold for ungrateful cats.” The last of her words were followed by a growl toward Pythonstar. 

Badgerstar swiped his tongue along his teeth. He didn't believe that Windclan was full of rabbits galore, but Riverclan- That, he could believe. Thunderclan would do alright, though. Their prey would come out soon. Perhaps it was time to expand their borders. We could try to take Eastern Point back again . No- Despite himself, Badgerstar had built up a mutual respect with the other clans. He couldn't afford to have a century-long blood feud resurface. 

Skyclan, maybe. That would still bring some trouble he didn't want to face, but it was a possibility. He could expand toward unclaimed territory, but he wasn't sure if there was any prey that would make it worth the trek up the ridge. It was a frustrating situation all around.

“Well, that seems to wrap up our announcements.” Prancingstar cut into his thoughts in his curt voice. “When the moon reaches the top of the peak, the gathering will be at an end.” 

Badgerstar nodded, and leapt off of the branch with a mighty leap, followed by Clamstar. 

“Can you believe the nerve of that Shadowclan leader, chasing a fox into Skyclan? What if it had made it's way to Thunderclan? I can't fight off a fox- But I'm sure you can, Badgerstar!” A familiar voice sounded from behind him, and Badgerstar spun around to see Harepoppy.

“Quiet.” He hissed, glancing around. “Save these comments for after the gathering.” 

Harepoppy’s eyes widened, and she nodded. “Yes, yes- Of course. Oh, just all this gossip I've heard during the gathering- I could tell you a few things, perhaps it’d be useful to you!” 

Badgerstar pursed his lip, shrugging haplessly. From the corner of his eyes, he spotted Slatefox staring at him expectantly. One moment. Just have to deal with her.  

“Perhaps. Though we need information a little more… Fruitful than elderly gossip.” He began, flicking an ear.

Harepoppy frowned with a little nod. “Well… It would certainly be nice to speak to you, in general. Remember when we were both apprentices, and I would always come help you in the elders den, whenever you'd get into trouble? And look at you now!”

Badgerstar dipped his head, the memory stirring a vague recollection in his mind. He definitely remembered trying to get his punishments over with, and having Harepoppy get in his way. “I remember,” He said, tone vague and somewhat detached. 

Harepoppy opened her mouth, and Badgerstar smiled, “I need to go speak to Slatefox, thank you for the conversation.” He brushed his tail mindlessly along her shoulders on his way toward his deputy, the amicable expression on his face falling into an uninterested look as soon as he was out of Harepoppy’s view. She was his… Friend, though that seemed like a strong word. He didn’t talk to her any more than he did to the rest of his clanmates.

Cats who noticed him pass by either leaned away to give him room to pass, or nodded a greeting. He was a clan leader, and cats knew who he was. Badgerstar, wise and fair. He would do anything to keep that title, for he truly did want the best for his clan. Slatefox raised his head when he saw him approach, tapping his tail on the ground.

“There you are.” 

Badgerstar swiped his tongue along his teeth with a nod. “Here,” he echoed, “I am.” 

Slatefox was a good deputy, and the best friend Badgerstar had ever had. They got into plenty of spats, but that seemed to only solidify their friendship. They were both reasonable and calm, traits which Badgerstar assumed got in the way when they differed opinions.

Slatefox leaned in, yellow eyes watchful. Badgerstar flicked his tail- his friend was watching him, for some reason. Slatefox was always cautious, and too focused on the way other cats thought at times. “Just remember,” Slatefox began, his gaze unwavering. “Don’t do anything rash. All the clans are as well off as we are-”

Badgerstar started, “I’m not-”

Slatefox cut him off swiftly, speaking over him. “There is no reason to stir trouble when Thunderclan is getting by. I am sending out a few patrols right now, so the forest remains full of prey when we really need it. They’re bluffing, apart from Riverclan, of course. They’re the only cats without the sanity they need to stop them from setting paw near the water,” He snorted briefly, before continuing, “But I saw the looks of them all, when they thought nobody was looking. We are all surviving- and we have no need to disrupt the peace. 

With a roll of his eyes and a sigh, Badgerstar muttered, “I suppose you’re right, as per usual. Don’t let your head get too large, you’ll float away at that rate, big guy. I’d like to just say that I wasn’t scheming anything-” “Yes, and hedgehogs fly! I know you as well as you know yourself, you forget that.” Slatefox shook out his pelt with an amused huff. 

Badgerstar gave his tail an irritated lash. “I’m just doing my best for Thunderclan. It won’t hurt to have a little extra prey in our bellies. The better fed we are, the better we can protect our borders from the other clans.” 

Slatefox sighed and nudged his friend. “The other clans aren’t an issue. We are all at peace- When will you see that?” He didn’t give Badgerstar any time to respond, as he got to his paws and continued, “Why don’t we go see how Stagpaw’s doing? This is his first gathering, after all. We ought to bring Thunderclan home soon, if we’d like to return before sunrise.”

Badgerstar let out a long breath from his nose, lingering on Slatefox’s initial words. Yes, they were at peace- But for how long? He didn’t find it a problem to be careful. Thunderclan needed someone to see that. He blinked and nodded, however, with his typical grin plastered on his face, though it leapt off of his face as quick as a mouse when Slatefox began walking.

He wondered if any of the apprentices from other clans would be foolish enough to spill a secret of the other clan’s. He’d have to ask Stagpaw sometime. As they neared the ragged circle of apprentices, who all were watching a red-brown Shadowclan apprentice demonstrate a stalk, Badgerstar couldn’t help but remember watching those very same moves, back with Skunkpaw. His gaze clouded, and darkened when the Windclan scent of a Bengal apprentice wafted toward him.

Badgerstar’s tail flicked, twitched, then settled. His face fell into an expression of placidity, following Slatefox over to where the familiar honey-brown tabby pelt of Stagpaw could be seen.

His son’s shoulders were broadening, and it struck him- He wasn’t a tiny kitten anymore. He was young, but he was quickly outgrowing his denmates, even if he didn’t realize it. Badgerstar remembered when Stagpaw had been nothing more than a bedraggled little bundle of fur, having just been rescued from the fox. Those days were long, long over. Many more days were to come, though.

A genuine smile of fondness fell upon his features, and he rested his head on Stagpaw’s shoulder from behind him for a brief moment.

Stagpaw whipped around, surprised, though obviously calming when he recognized the smells. He was sitting in the back of the group, not really one of them. He had sat beside the Windclan apprentice, for whatever reason.

“It’s time to leave. Thunderclan has a long trek to make.” Slatefox chirped, nodding to the Windclan apprentice as he slid up between her and Stagpaw. 

“Bye, Stagpaw! Remember what I said about hunting rabbits- Everyone but Windclan is too big and dumb to get near them!” Descending into giggles, she loped away, as graceful as a deer. Badgerstar scoffed. So much nerve, and at such a young age.

“Found a friend, then.” Slatefox sounded satisfied. “A’yup.” Stagpaw said, shifting his paws shyly. “Her name’s Snakepaw.”

Badgerstar didn’t recognize the name, absently tapping his tail on the ground. 

“Don’t believe any of that nonsense about not being able to catch rabbits. They’re the dumbest prey alive- A kitten could catch them.” Badgerstar snorted. 

“I know, I’ve caught one.” Stagpaw said, blinking at his father with his wide blue-green eyes. Badgerstar looked toward him, and his own brown gaze softened. “To many more, then.”

Slatefox beamed at the sight, a purr rumbling in his throat. “ Many . I’m sure they all cower in fear at the sight of the apprentice with the biggest shoulders in any clan.” 

Stagpaw laughed, covering his muzzle with a pale paw. “They ain’t that big!” 

Slatefox opened his mouth, only to be interrupted by a cranky voice. 

“Starclan above- May we get a move on, within the next moon? I would like to be home before the next gathering begins.” Snowfleck, the medicine cat, was speaking. Her tail lashed irritably. 

Badgerstar spoke smoothly, resting his tail on the old she-cat’s shoulder. “Yes, Snowfleck. I was just about to say the same thing.” Dipping his head, he slid through the crowd toward the way they had entered, Slatefox and Stagpaw on his heels. 

“Thunderclan! Gather by me- We are leaving shortly!”

He watched as his clanmates padded toward him, some in groups and some on their own. Skyclan was leaving as well- He watched as they descended up the slope toward their territory. It was only a moment later that Pythonstar called for Windclan. 

Badgerstar led his clan out of the little valley, breathing in the crisp air. Slatefox padded up behind him. 

There is truly nothing better than the mountain air. Badgerstar mused to himself. That was one thing he missed in the forest, though he got plenty of it traversing up to visit Jewel. However, he reminded himself that with open air came all the threats with it. He greatly preferred feeling sheltered. No cat could stalk through the trees as well as a Thunderclan cat!

Pride warmed his pelt, from his tail tip to his ears. The other clans would get on his nerves all they wanted, but he'd always have Thunderclan to remind him of the clan he had. They would always support him. In their unity, they had strength.

As he sucked in another breath, the whiff of a new smell caught his nose. Not a new one- Windclan. Badgerstar’s energized thoughts darkened instantly, and a frown encapsulated his features as a voice matched the smell.

“Well, it seems Windclan is on Thunderclan’s paws today. Hope we aren’t stepping on any tails, of course.” Pythonstar strolled up behind Badgerstar. Badgerstar turned his head, ears flattening. Pythonstar was alone.

“Where’s the rest of your clan?” Badgerstar asked, eyes narrowed. His voice was calm, and collected. He had a reputation to uphold. 

Pythonstar grinned. “Quite aware, aren’t you? I would’ve thought living in a forest would’ve dulled your senses. They’re just behind your clan. Valleyview is leading them. She’s a capable cat, I’ll let you know. Besides, I have a little bit I need to discuss?”

Slatefox pushed forward, raising his chin with narrowed eyes. “What, that you couldn’t say during the gathering?”

Pythonstar frowned, waving his tail dismissively. “This is a conversation I’d like to have in private, Slatefox.”

Slatefox bristled, and Badgerstar’s tail lashed. However, he nodded to Slatefox. “It’ll only be a moment. Keep the clan going toward the camp- I’ll catch up.” Turning to Pythonstar, he growled, “Make it quick.”

The rest of Thunderclan passed them by, and he could see the pelts of Windclan diverging toward the moor between the dark tree trunks. Badgerstar’s muzzle twitched, awaiting Pythonstar speak. The muddy-brown tom was lazily drawing his tongue across a paw. 

“Hurry it up. I need to get back to my clan,” Badgerstar urged, tail lashing from left to right. 

Pythonstar sleazily snorted. “Don’t get your whiskers in a twist! I’m sure all of Thunderclan can walk a few pawsteps on their own.” Just as Badgerstar opened his jaws, Pythonstar continued. “I’ve got a proposition, I suppose.”

“Oh yeah?” Badgerstar tilted his head, eyes narrowed to slits. He wasn’t too sure what he thought of an idea spun from the jaws of a Windclan cat. Especially this one. Do you even know what you’ve done to me? The thought sent the beginnings of a growl into his throat, which he fought to keep down.

“Leaf-bare’s approaching. You know that as much, I’m sure.” Pythonstar picked dirt from between his claws, a look of disdain on his muzzle. He wasn’t paying much attention to Badgerstar, which irked him. “And I know that we have had our… Differences.” Badgerstar’s ears perked up. Was he going to admit it? Badgerstar’s tail twitched. “Between Thunderclan and Windclan, that is.” Pythonstar droned on.

“Get on with it,” Badgerstar growled, unable to disguise the wave of irritation that overcame him. Pythonstar had to know. There was no way! My brother did not die for you to act as though it is just a clan rivalry.

“Calm down,” Pythonstar snapped, tail lashing. He stamped his paw down against the earth, shaking his head and regaining his own composure. “I’d like to offer some sort of compromise, over Eastern Point. A partnership. ”

Badgerstar stood up, fighting to keep his own self-command in check. “Thunderclan has won Eastern Point.” He said. “You know that. I will not be sacrificing my own clan’s good for the likes of Windclan.” He lifted his chin, taking a step backward.

Pythonstar’s eyes glowed. “Of course, of course- That’s what I figured you might say. Thunderclan cats are very predictable, but that’s alright. Just makes you have to work a little… Harder, to fight well! I’m sure about hunting, too. Don’t the mice become a bit used to you, after some time? Big paws, big-bodies- It’s impressive, truly! Or perhaps Thunderclan just has silly mice.” He tilted his head, slinking in a circle around Badgerstar. Pythonstar had a way of saying the most infuriating things, yet managing to keep his tone innocent in such a manner that would make any cat look unreasonable for swiping their claws across his nose.

That didn’t stop Badgerstar’s claws from sliding out. It took every instinct in him not to lunge at Pythonstar, and drag that look off of his face. “Pythonstar,” He breathed out, furrowing his brow. “Do not test me. You are playing a foolish game.”

“Relax! I’m only teasing.” Pythonstar slid his side against Badgerstar’s, causing the big black-and-white tom to shudder. He’d have to clean his pelt a hundred times to wipe off the stink of Windclan from his pelt. Badgerstar’s fur itched. He hated being dirty, and he hated the Windclan cat being anywhere near him. Pythonstar went on, his eyes shining innocently. “We could share Eastern Point, that’s all I’m saying! It’s all-”

Badgerstar cut him off. “No.”  

Pythonstar snorted. “Just listen to me, Badgerstar. I know Thunderclan isn’t as prey-rich as you like to say. Maybe Windclan isn’t either. It never hurts to be prepared, that’s all I’m saying. We both hunt in Eastern Point- But again, keep your whiskers straight- You keep the claims! Keep the borders! Maybe we can end this all. All the fighting. It’s gone on too long, wouldn’t you say?” The muddy tom leaned forward, eyes glowing. “I know you have a son. What’s his name? Stagpaw, right? I have a daughter. Don’t you want them to grow up safe? I know I would! ”

Badgerstar’s muzzle was uncomfortably close to Pythonstar’s. The fur along his spine prickled with discomfort. What do you know about Stagpaw? He stayed quiet, watching from half-lidded brown eyes. 

“Don't let the past repeat itself, now.” Pythonstar stepped back, tail curled over his tilted head. He watched Badgerstar with a careful expression on his face. Badgerstar's insides bubbled with an amalgamation of anger and fear. He hated how much power this tom seemed to have over him. 

With a long exhale, Badgerstar drew himself forward. There was reason in Pythonstar's words, even if he would've preferred to claw his ears off. Pulling back his lips, he nodded curtly. “But the minute I smell Windclan cats past Eastern Point, there will be bloodshed.” Badgerstar promised, his brown eyes dark. “Keep Stagpaw out of this.” He warned, raising himself up. 

Pythonstar's green eyes shone. “I always knew the other leaders were right to call you the most reasonable. This will be a long partnership. An end to an era. May Windclan and Thunderclan rise to the occasion!” He trilled, but Badgerstar had already begun to walk away.

Slatefox would certainly have a sharp word for him after this. Badgerstar felt regret gnaw at his insides, though he shoved it away. He needed time to think… Thunderclan would do well without him for a moment. Badgerstar wanted to see a certain someone. She would know what to say.

Veering away from the path to Thunderclan’s camp, Badgerstar’s paws guided him toward the end of their territory. He hoped to find her nest, though she never slept in one place long.

He made quick work of the typically long journey, keeping a steady pace. The moon would begin to set in a few hours. He still had time. 

Most cats would've felt exhaustion drag at their bones by now, but the longer Badgerstar stayed up, he felt more energized, more motivated. His mind always began to spin elaborate thoughts, and there was no way to calm them once they began. He was like a twoleg machine, a beast unable to be stopped. 

Often he'd sit on the Mossystone and watch Thunderclan through the darkest hours, or pace around his little cave. Most of the time he thought about strategies to help the clan against Leaf-bare, and other times he thought about ways to actually persuade Jewel to join Thunderclan. Other times his mind crept to the farthest corners of his mind. Conflicting thoughts. 

A new one would join them today. His encounter with Pythonstar. A part of him felt as though he owed it to Skunkpaw to have given him a fight worth remembering for it. 

Revenge is a fool's game. Badgerstar repeated the mantra to himself, as he often did, climbing over the stones with well-practiced leaps. He was Badgerstar, the calm and fair leader of Thunderclan. Badgerpaw, the angry young tom, was gone. For better or worse.

***

“Oh, shut-up, you bee-brain!” Jewel snickered, covering her muzzle with a dainty white paw. 

Badgerstar leaned against her, his brown eyes glittering with amusement. “It’s only true!” He teased, sticking his muzzle out. “Someone as fragile as you- I’m just surprised that you haven’t fallen apart yet!”

“You won’t be calling me fragile when I claw your ears off!” Jewel swiped her sheathed paw across Badgerstar’s ears, hopping up and propping herself up on his shoulder. He let himself drop to the ground, and she fell after him. The two rolled in the grass, and Badgerstar felt a kittish leap in his heart. Only around Jewel, could he ever just have fun like this! So many duties came with his leadership. Sometimes he missed the days where his only responsibilities were to bring a mouse or two home. 

Breaking apart from their tussle, Badgerstar sat up and gazed at Jewel, who was rasping her tongue across her chest fur. He watched her from half-open brown eyes. He wished that every day could be like this, instead of just the times he could slip away from his clan. Great Starclan, half the time he wasn’t even supposed to be gone! Like now!

Jewel was, of course, oblivious to his thoughts. However, she lifted her head and hopped over to him, pressing the side of her head against his long neck-fur. “Hey, why don’t we go somewhere? If your clan isn’t keeping you too busy, of course.” She murmured, blue eyes glittering. “I want to talk to you!”

“I do too.” Badgerstar responded gruffly, tail twitching. “It’s late. My clan will be fine.”

He just hoped that Slatefox wouldn’t be too mad. 

Following Jewel, they padded close to the river. It was the river that, when followed, would lead you straight to the Echoing Falls and right into Thunderclan territory. “Where are we going?” Badgerstar asked, pawsteps light. The forest around them was peaceful, and the trees themselves were becoming scarcer and scarcer as the altitude increased. The stars could be seen between the gaps of foliage.

“Up the river, to the other falls.” She mrrowed, before descending into a bound. Badgerstar shook out his pelt, before leaping after her. He didn’t come here often- It was quite far from camp. He had time, though. And right now all he was centered on was spending time with Jewel. 

As the gentle droning of the waterfall filled his thoughts, he relished the air, as he had before. It was much crisper up here, though that was obvious- They were far higher into the mountains. Badgerstar wondered what it’d be like to climb all the way up. As the two cats slowed down, a log that connected two sides of the river could be seen. It stood right over the falls. 

Jewel nimbly leapt onto the log, oblivious to the drop below. It was a place she had sat many, many times before. She wasn’t afraid, and neither was Badgerstar. He followed her, albeit with a little more caution than Jewel had. He had bigger paws, so he figured it’d never hurt to be a little careful. However, the log had been there for countless moons before, and it wasn't going anywhere. 

Above the two, the stars and the moon illuminated their faces, causing a silvery sheen over the felines. Badgerstar gazed at Jewel as she sat down, admiring the way her fur seemed to absorb the moonlight.

She looked at him teasingly. “It's not just me who looks like a moonbeam!” Badgerstar glanced down at himself after she spoke. The white parts of his fur were Illuminated as well, and a purr rumbled from deep within him. 

“I doubt I'm even half as pretty as you are, Jewel. I'm a mean old forest cat- the moon doesn't make us look any nicer!” His whiskers twitched with amusement, and he sat down on the log. It was sturdy enough to where they both felt rather confident as to not falling. 

Jewel answered with a little tap of her tail, leaning against him. “It's a pretty night.” She yawned, shielding her mouth with a white paw.

Badgerstar felt a surge of hope, his earlier thoughts rushing back to him. “Don't you wish everyday could be like this?” He murmured, glancing over her. 

Disappointment filled him as uncertainty took over Jewel's face. He hated to see the doubt there. Come on! You know it's best for you.

“Join Thunderclan.” He urged, placing a paw on hers. 

Jewel drew it away, and anger flared in his belly as she glared stubbornly at him. 

“We could be together, Jewel! Every day! You could wake up beside me. I'm a leader- They'll have to accept you!” Badgerstar went on, tail lashing. The moon cast their shadows far below, and the small falls below them were the only sound apart from one another. 

Jewel met his gaze evenly, before sitting back down and wrenching it away, facing the water. “That's exactly the problem.”

“No, it-”

Jewel cut him off sharply, lashing her tail. “I know how Thunderclan is. I've been around the clan borders long enough. They're not like you, and you know that! I can only guess how they treat Stagpaw!”

“Stagpaw is fine! The clan treats him well!” Badgerstar interjected, defensiveness crawling into his voice. 

“From what he wants you to see, sure! I've spotted him on patrols with the other cats. He's always behind them. Following along like a dog! I don't want to be like that. I don't want cats to treat me like crow-food because of where I was born, or who I am. I'd have you, but don't I already? Besides, I already know a cat or two in Thunderclan who doesn't like me.”

Badgerstar's ears pinned back against his head. Hurt riddled him. How come Jewel wouldn't even try? And Stagpaw was doing fine! He was a good young cat, growing into a promising warrior! Jewel had no place to comment on Stagpaw's wellbeing. 

“You don't know a thing about how Thunderclan really is!” Badgerstar snapped. “ O r about Stagpaw. He's my son! He's fine, and I'd know if he wasn't!”

Jewel’s ears pinned back against her head, and she spat. “Some father you are, then! Come find me again when you're willing to speak with me like a grown cat! I wanted to talk to you, but I guess that'll have to wait.” Without another word, she twisted around and descended down the rocky hill, toward the woods. Badgerstar didn't know where she was going, but he rarely did. 

With a long exhale from his nostrils, he turned and began the trek home. He still didn't feel tired- in fact, his spat just made him feel agitated and restless. His mind was dark as he found his way home, navigating the forest with ease.

The familiar smells of Thunderclan were usually something that brought him immense comfort, but as he approached the hollow all he felt was the deep pit of dread. He knew exactly who would be waiting for him.

The sun was going to rise soon, and it wouldn't be long before the Dawn patrol headed out. Badgerstar was relieved to have returned before any cat awoke to see him gone. Hopping from step to step as silently as he could, Badgerstar trudged to his den. His mood was already sour enough, and the last thing he wanted to hear was the sound of a hiss behind him.

“Badgerstar, where were you?” Slatefox hissed through gritted teeth, stepping close to him. His friend looked exhausted .

“Were you up all night?” Badgerstar averted his words, raising a brow with a questioning expression upon his face. 

Slatefox's long tail lashed. “Yes, and no thanks to you! I know for certain Pythonstar couldn't have taken so long. I was going to send a search party!”

Badgerstar realized that he had hardly even given the alliance any thought. He'd tell Slatefox later. “No, it didn't. I decided to make a pitstop.” He responded gruffly.

Slatefox’s eyes grew dismayed, though instantly hardened as he realized. “You can't be seeing her when you should be with Thunderclan.” He hissed.

“The clan was asleep!” Badgerstar snapped back, irritation at an all-time high. First, Jewel had gotten angry with him, and now he was in for a lecture with Slatefox. Starclan, give me strength!

Before Slatefox could utter another word, Badgerstar silenced him with a sharp flick of his tail. “I want you to go assign the dawn patrol, and then get some sleep.” Badgerstar forced his voice into evenness. Slatefox was probably angry because he was tired, but he was nonetheless met with an infuriated look.

Without another word, Badgerstar stormed off to his den, tail waving behind him. As he pushed through the lichen that covered the entrance, he noticed a shadowed shape curled up in the corner of his den. Stagpaw.

With a little sigh, Badgerstar tried not to be angry with Slatefox anymore. Stagpaw must've been worried, too. Pursing his lips, Badgerstar settled in his own nest, only after gently running his tail along his son's flank. 

Guilt prickled at his spine. He should've told them where he was going- But that didn't make him a bad leader! Or a bad father. His thoughts drifted to Jewel's words once more after the latter. He felt as though they would stick in his mind for quite a while, though this wasn't the first fight they had had. He just hoped it'd be the last, and that she'd finally see the sense in his words.

Sitting in his nest, sleep did not come for a long time.

[warriorsseverance]

CHAPTER 4

Stagpaw had been working out on clearing the den for a while- the sun was beginning to set. It was tough work, as he was doing it alone and the elders kept giving him more and more to do.

They all spoke to him as if he were a dumb mouse, and his fur prickled along his spine every time. Leafrattle and Squirrelcatcher were the worst, and Meadowpurr was a little better.

Squirrelcatcher kept glaring at him from his corner of the den, only letting out dissatisfied grunts when Stagpaw finished something. The ancient tom’s eyes were failing, yet he still felt the need to be unhappy with whatever he'd done.

Leafrattle was very, very finicky, and her tongue didn't have an ounce of kindness to it. He'd finished cleaning the bedding, and he paid special attention to making sure there weren't any thorns or twigs stuck in it, but he wasn't careful enough evidently.

Every time he thought he was done, Leafrattle would click her tongue and demand that he did it again, insisting that he had missed a spot. Usually, it'd be paired with a snicker or a snort, and a remark of how an actual Thunderclan cat would've been done in the time it took her to catch a mouse.

Looking at her, Stagpaw figured it must've taken her a while. All she ever did was complain and sit around- he had no idea how she even knew of the little bits of dry leaves he'd left accidentally, as she was blind!

He remembered when he was younger, he would often tag along with Adderpaw and Beechpaw when they were going to the elders' den to hear a story. That was back when they were kits, yet the elders had nudged him out and made him bring them prey. Stagpaw could vividly recall a time where Leafrattle, back when her vision wasn't as bad, had asked him to play hide-and-seek.

He had hidden behind the fresh-kill pile long after Beechpaw and Adderpaw had left. He'd only been found when Snowfleck, the medicine cat who should be in the elders den herself, had gone to grab a bite to eat and found the huddled Stagpaw instead. One of his first instances of graying into trouble for doing virtually nothing. Just like this.

Right now, Stagpaw was searching through a bit of moss. He was glad that the den, like most in Thunderclan, was a little cave so that the elders wouldn't be able to make him stay to replace the walls, too. That was something they would certainly do.

The elders were huddled together, with Squirrelcatcher and Leafrattle looking toward his general direction. Meadowpurr was trying her hardest not to look at him, it seemed. All three cats sat rigidly, as though they were expecting Stagpaw to maul them, or something. He wouldn't be surprised if that was exactly their worry. At that, he let out a little snort.

“Hm? What are you snorting for?” the high, nasally voice of Leafrattle filled his ears, and he shut his eyes. Starclan, or whatevers's out there, give me strength.

“Just breathing, that's all,” He spoke evenly, making an attempt to keep respectfully, even if irritation prickled at his sides.

“Well, breathe quieter. Being noisy isn't going to help you clean!” She chided, her milky eyes seeming to bore right into his own.

“Yes- Sorry, Leafrattle.”

At that, Leafrattle's only response was a little tsk.

Stagpaw fluffed out his fur, working from one piece of moss to the next. By now, he was an expert of den cleaning. How exciting.

He hooked his claws through the moss, searching for any thorns when something landed on his tail-tip. He winced, and spun around, expecting it to be one of the blind elders.

However, on his tail was not a paw but a little fuzzy gray ball of fur. Stagpaw withdrew his tail and drew it around his paw. It was Dovekit, one of Sunnyheart's kits. He had been in the nursery around the same time as them, though they'd been born three moons after him.

Where are your littermates? It wasn't often to see just one of them. About to open his maw and ask, Silverkit and Morningkit came rushing in. Meadowpurr was following them on unsteady legs, her eyes half-closed.

Stagpaw sighed, taking a moment, before getting back to his work, assuming that they'd all be listening to the story Squirrelcatcher was beginning to tell.

“What'cha doing?” Dovekit chirped, trotting over to him. She was nearly the size of an apprentice- They all were. It wouldn't be long before they joined him in the apprentice den.

Stagpaw blinked at her, his tail twitching. “Just tidying up the den, that’s all.”

“Is that what all apprentices do, all the time?” She prodded a moss ball with a small white paw.

When you're not from Thunderclan, yeah. “ ‘course not. Someone's got to make sure the elders are cared for, though.” He mrrowed, finding that he was nearly finished. “Why don't you go listen to the story? I'm going to be done real soon.”

Dovekit’s tail flicked. “Squirrelcatcher always tells the same story! Everyone knows that!”

Stagpaw didn't, and only shrugged. “Get Meadowpurr to tell one, then.” The notion seemed to appease the kitten, for she scrambled away.

Meanwhile, Stagpaw got up and slipped out of the den. Leafrattle was too concerned with Silverkit to bother with him, thankfully.

Bits of moss and leaf litter clung to his pelt and claws, so the first thing he wanted to do was clean that up. Stagpaw trotted over to one of the stones that clung to the walls of the camp, and hopped onto them with a graceful leap.

Settling down on the warm rock, he lay down and began to lap at his belly. His break was short lived, however, as a thump beside him belonging to Bisonpaw caught his attention.

“What happened on that patrol with Oakscratch? He chewed my ear off about talking to you, then about how I was born for success!” Bisonpaw asked, his large head swinging over Stagpaw.

Stagpaw flopped onto his side with a disgruntled sigh. His tail flicked back and forth, before he answered.

“I was spacing out when he was talking. He didn't like that too much,” Stagpaw tried to keep his tone light, for it felt immoral to speak badly of Bisonpaw’s father in front of him, regardless of what they both thought of him.

“He said you made a fool of Beechpaw, but that he had put you in your place, apparently.” Bisonpaw blinked, sitting down on the rock and folding his legs beneath his chest.

Stagpaw sighed once more, shutting his eyes. “Yeah… That too. I knocked Beechpaw over when he was supposed to be attacking me, then later Beechpaw jumped me. With his claws! The mentors all just watched, too-” Stagpaw broke off, wincing again. “Sorry. Oakscratch wasn't… That bad, I guess.”

Bisonpaw snorted. “You're a bad liar, Stagpaw.”

“I mean… He could've!”

“I don't care if you have anything bad to say about him. He's not exactly my favorite cat.”

Stagpaw didn't respond for a moment, just shrugging his broad shoulders.

“I'm not tough enough, not to his standards.” Stagpaw admitted, tail tapping on the stone.

Bisonpaw sighed, folding his large paws beneath his chest. “That's my father, alright. Most of this clan is like that too, though.”

He paused, almost bashfully to add, “You know, I wanted to be a medicine cat. I already know a bit, just from bothering Snowfleck. Oakscratch told me to leave that for the weaker cats, and that no son of his would be a medicine cat. I’m kind of good at fighting, but I like helping cats more.”

Stagpaw tilted his head with a surprised little glance at him. Bisonpaw- a medicine cat! He would’ve never thought, not when Bisonpaw seemed to be in the making to become the perfect warrior, in the eyes of most of Thunderclan’s cats.

A gray-furred cat caught the attention of Stagpaw from the corner of his gaze. It was Slatefox, returning home from a border patrol. Following him were Asterhill and Blossomsneeze, though they veered away, chatting between themselves.

Slatefox trotted over to the two tom-cats, his tail weaving through the air behind him. He propped his forelegs up on the rock, facing them.

“You two are going to the gathering tonight. Bisonpaw, you already know, but Stagpaw… I decided it was time you got to go, though I certainly received an earful from Oakscratch when he heard. You ought to tell me what happened. I won't tell your father,” Slatefox mrrowed, long tail kinked over his head.

Stagpaw winced at his words. Of course Oakscratch had said something. He was grateful that Slatefox let him go. He would definitely try to clear things up, but he knew Slatefox wasn't upset. He was just glad it wasn't Badgerstar who was told.

“Thank you, Slatefox,” Stagpaw returned, eyes gleaming with gratitude. Slatefox purred, and rubbed his chin against the top of Stagpaw’s head in response.

“You two should go get some sleep. It's a long journey for a little cat.” Slatefox murmured, and glanced at Bisonpaw. “Though some of you aren't too small any more.”

Bisonpaw bashfully nodded, before hopping off the rock toward the apprentice's den. He had already gone to a few gatherings, so it wasn't anything special. It would be Stagpaw's first, though.

“It'll be nice for you to meet cats of the other clans. It's a good time to make friends, but never forget that you may face them in battle. Don't tell them any Thunderclan secrets- But keep an ear open if they decide to share secrets of their own!” Slatefox chuckled, sitting down beside Stagpaw on the stone.

Stagpaw leaned against him, his expression thoughtful. “I won't tell them anything.” He promised. Would they know that he wasn't from Thunderclan originally? It'd be nice to meet some cats who didn't know that.

He liked Bisonpaw, but his friend could be a little distant at times. Stagpaw struggled to talk to him about things on a deeper level, if their earlier conversation didn't show that off enough. It could be refreshing to meet some other cats.

“I knew you wouldn't.” Slatefox nuzzled him affectionately, before tapping him with his tail. “Now. Off you go, before I have to drag you to Five Peaks myself.

At that, Slatefox sprung off of the stone, landing gracefully on the sandy ground with his tail in the air. He headed toward Badgerstar’s den. Stagpaw followed, though he veered off toward the Apprentice's Den.

Bisonpaw was already settled in his nest, as was Adderpaw. Trying not to wake them, Stagpaw stepped around them and settled into his own nest. After a long day of cleaning other cats’ beddings out, he was immensely grateful to collapse into something of his own. It didn't take him long to fall asleep.

He awoke to the sound of a yowl outside, to which he quickly recognized as Badgerstar's. Stagpaw stretched, hopping out of his nest and followed Adderpaw out. He felt a tingle of excitement shake him. He was going to a gathering.

The moon was beginning to rise, and it wouldn't be too long before it was high in the sky.

“Cats of Thunderclan, tonight marks the night of the Gathering. Many of you selected to accompany us have already been notified, but I will repeat it for those here as well.” Badgerstar called, voice ringing throughout the hollow.

“Slatefox, Snowfleck, Oakscratch, Blackwhisker, Asterhill, Blossomsneeze, Mintflower, Redrabbit, Harepoppy, Flashstrike, Stagpaw, Bisonpaw, Adderpaw, Beechpaw, Meadowpurr, and Leafrattle, please gather by the camp entrance. Fallownose, will you keep watch over camp as we leave?”

Stagpaw’s tail twitched with excitement, and he glanced at Bisonpaw. He was sharing a word with Oakscratch, and he decided not to interrupt. He didn't want to be anywhere near Oakscratch tonight.

Just about to go toward Slatefox, he felt something hop onto his tail. Biting back a yelp, he swung around. It was only Sunnyheart's kits- Dovekit, Morningkit, and Silverkit.

“Paws off the tail!” Stagpaw snapped, leaning over to lap at his tail. “Shouldn't you three be asleep?” The kittens seemed unfazed by his words, prancing around him like does.

“Sunnyheart's asleep!” Silverkit chirped.

“We want to go to the gathering!” Dovekit squeaked.

“Yeah- We're only two moons away from being apprentices!” Morningkit added.

“Can you take us? You were in the nursery with us! That's not fair that you get to go!” Dovekit said, hopping over her brothers. They weren't very small anymore- but they still had plenty of kitten fluff behind their ears.

“Yes, but I'm four moons older than you. You'll get to go.” Stagpaw said, glancing toward the clan. They were starting to leave!

“Just not today!” Stagpaw added, springing away from them and loping toward the clan as they climbed up the stones. He hopped after Blossomsneeze, following his white-tipped tail in the evening gloom.

As they reached the top, Stagpaw was only on his own for a moment, before a familiar voice rang out from behind him, to his dismay.

“Oy! Stagpaw! T'is is yer’ firs’ gatherin’, ain't it? I remember my firs’ one like the fur on my pelt! Ye'll have sum’ fun!” Redrabbit trilled, and Stagpaw glanced at him.

“Yeah. It'll be fun.” He mumbled, tail swishing behind him. Redrabbit chattered on, and Stagpaw found himself staring off into the woods, mindlessly following the paws of the cats in front of him.

Over the crowd, he spotted the back of Badgerstar and Slatefox, who led ahead of the crowd, quietly chatting to one another.

“Hey, Redrabbit- I think Slatefox needed me for something. I'll talk to you at the gathering, alright?” He said, glancing at his mentor.

Redrabbit had been in the middle of speaking, but didn't seem too affected. “Ye’, o'course! Ye’ know, me an’ my pa are jus’ like tha’-”

“Thanks, Redrabbit!” Stagpaw scampered off, squeezing through Blackwhisker and Asterhill. He liked his mentor, but he could certainly be a little overwhelming at time. He didn't know how Badgerstar had dealt with him when he'd been his apprentice.

Stagpaw made his way to the front of the crowd, sliding up between Badgerstar and Slatefox.

“...I haven't seen her for a while… Need to make more time for her… Clan has been keeping me busy…” Stagpaw pricked his ears, hearing snatches of Badgerstar’s words. He must be talking about Jewel.

Slatefox was nodding along, though Stagpaw could see he wasn't too enthusiastic about their conversation, as his tail was twitching sourly, to his surprise. Doesn't Slatefox like Jewel?

Slatefox noticed Stagpaw, and quickly cut off Badgerstar. “Stagpaw! I was beginning to think we had left you behind.”

Badgerstar glanced behind him, and motioned with his tail for him to come close. He looked a little preoccupied, but Stagpaw figured that was just because he was thinking of Jewel.

“I was in the back, with Redrabbit.” Stagpaw mrrowed, not mentioning how his ears felt talked off.

Badgerstar chuffed with amusement, brushing his tail against Stagpaw's shoulder. “Good to see you two getting along.”

Stagpaw agreed with a meek nod, flicking his ears.

“I just hope he's gotten serious enough to handle an apprentice.” Slatefox murmured. “He seems to be the same cat as he was when he was under Badgerstar’s wing.”

“ ‘Course he has. I wouldn't give Stagpaw an unsuitable mentor.” Badgerstar said, narrowing his brown eyes.

Stagpaw shrugged. “He's fine. I learn a lot with you, though, Badgerstar.” He added that last part with an adoring glance up at his father. He was eternally grateful to have a cat to teach him all that. One day, it'd matter, and he'd be able to defend himself and his clan well.

Slatefox blinked. “Well, nevermind any of that. We're here.”

Stagpaw looked ahead. He'd seen the Five Peaks from afar- Five, well, peaks. They were said to represent the five clans, all while pointing to Starclan. There was a little valley between them all, in which the clans gathered. There was a huge log, called the Overturned Log, in the center where the leaders of all clans sat.

He couldn't wait to see them all up close. A little nimble of anxiety gnawed at his insides, though. “Are there going to be a lot of cats there?”

Badgerstar looked back at him with an amused look. “Sure. Represent Thunderclan well, son!” At that, he leapt off the little overhang, and Thunderclan broke into a sprint toward the Peaks.

He fell behind a little, admiring the Peaks as they approached them. When they got there, Slatefox paused and waited for him. “We're the fourth clan here. We are just waiting for Windclan.”

“Good riddance, too. Those rabbit-eaters don't deserve to call themselves a clan.” Badgerstar called from just in front of them. “Come here, Stagpaw.”

Stagpaw trotted toward his father, leaving Slatefox to pad over to the other deputies.

Starclan, there's a lot of cats here. He'd never met a Riverclan cat, or a Shadowclan one. They didn't share borders. Were those the new scents he smelled? He wrinkled his nose.

“There,” Badgerstar began. “Those are some apprentices from Skyclan, Riverclan, and Shadowclan. Adderpaw and Beechpaw are already going there. Go follow them- Make Thunderclan proud!”

Make Thunderclan proud. Stagpaw tipped his chin up, hoping it made him look less nervous. Badgerstar had already walked away, presumably toward the other leaders.

The rest of Thunderclan were lost in the crowd. He swallowed a lump in his throat. Be a Thunderclan cat. Be proud. Be fierce. Stagpaw was none of those things, he reflected. He was hardly even a Thunderclan cat.

He swiveled his head around, only to see Oakscratch standing behind him. Stagpaw nearly jumped out of his fur. He could see the disapproving look in the warrior's gaze, and Stagpaw forced himself to raise his head high. He'd never let him know how he felt. He'd try to pretend he was a Thunderclan cat, until it felt real enough.

Oakscratch twisted around, disappearing into the crowd. Stagpaw watched for a moment longer, before forcing himself toward the other apprentices. I am Stagpaw. I'm a Thunderclan cat. That's all they need to know.

As he approached the group, he slunk toward the opposite side of Beechpaw. A reddish-brown spotted tom that smelled of pine needles was speaking. “... The snake was this big! It wasn't any match for me.”

“Why does Shadowclan live near poisonous snakes?” A pretty gray she-cat with white spots asked. She smelled like fish. Beside her, a cream cat and a gray-and-cream cat sat next to her without perplexed expressions. “Isn't that like… Dangerous?”

Beechpaw leaned in. “Psscht! Willowpaw, does Riverclan have nothing dangerous? No wonder you're all so fat and lazy!” The group of apprentices descended into chuckles, except for Willowpaw and the two cats beside her. They looked rather offended.

“We face lots more than some silly snakes. We have lots of fights. We fight Windclan all the time- And we always win! We're all so brave.” Beechpaw broke off, glancing toward Stagpaw's direction. A mean grin spread across his face. “Well, almost all of us. Stagpaw here couldn't even fight a mouse if it was half-dead!”

Stagpaw felt his ears redden with embarrassment when the group descended into giggles, with the only cat not being Adderpaw. She rolled her eyes.

“That must be a pretty strong mouse- Didn't he beat you when we were training yesterday?” She teased her brother.

Beechpaw’s ears pinned against his head. In retaliation, he swiped at his sister's muzzle, and they both let out little hisses at one another.

The reddish brown Shadowclan cat rolled his eyes. “Every cat knows Beechpaw is full of thistle-fluff! He said he caught a fox last gathering, and then your deputy, Slatefox, came over and said he thought it was a vole, not a fox!” He giggled, stamping his foot on the ground. “Anyway, I'm Rabbitpaw. I'm Morningstar's nephew, and I'm almost a warrior. I won't be hanging out with you fishbrains and birdbrains much longer!”

Stagpaw tilted his head. “I'm Badgerstar’s son.” He said meekly. Would that impress the other apprentices? A white she-cat from Skyclan spoke up, looking confused. “Really? You look nothing alike! And since when did Badgerstar take a mate?”

Stagpaw hunched his shoulders, grimacing. About to utter something else, a new face popped in. Windclan. They must've arrived, bringing that pale bengal along with them. He forced his chin up.

“He's not my real dad-”

The other Riverclan apprentice, Milkpaw, gasped. “Are your real parents dead?” Stagpaw opened his mouth to answer, but Beechpaw beat him to it.

“Yeah- They weren't even part of a clan! Stagpaw was supposed to die with them.” He grinned, whisking his tail around. The Riverclan apprentices’ eyes widened in surprise, as did Rabbitpaw's.

The Windclan she-cat tilted her head. “A lot of us are, too. My mother was a loner. It's quite common in Windclan- I'm surprised Thunderclan has allowed it. You give us quite a bit of headache for it. I'm Snakepaw, by the way.” She purred, curling her tail neatly around her small paws.

“Badgerstar is special, I guess.” Stagpaw said quietly, looking at the she-cat. He thought Windclan cats were mean- Yet here she was. He tilted his head, Studying Snakepaw from wide blue-green eyes.

About to say more, a yowl broke out from behind them.

Morningstar, the brown-and-white leader of Shadowclan, was speaking. “Cats of all Clans! Windclan has arrived, and now the gathering must commence.”

Stagpaw lifted his head, ready to listen to what would happen- Though he wanted to talk more to that Snakepaw, truly.

She seemed special- For a Windclan cat, that was.

[warriorsseverance]

WARRIORS: SEVERANCE CHAPTER 3

ao3 link

Sunlight filtered through the foliage screen of the apprentice’s den, dappling Stagpaw’s pelt with an array of colors. He’d been awake for a little while, but he was reluctant to get out of his nest. It was past sunrise, he could tell just by the amount of cats loitering around the camp clearing. Redrabbit would be returning from the dawn patrol soon, and Stagpaw found no point in trying to go back to sleep if he were to just get jolted awake the moment he fell asleep.

Most of the apprentices were already gone. The only one in the den was Bisonpaw, the massive, yet young, tomcat. He was the son of one of the most respected warriors in the entire clan, Oakscratch, yet held a far more gentle and unthreatening demeanor, nothing like his father’s take-no-shit attitude. 

Bisonpaw was the only cat Stagpaw could really call his friend. They got along for being misfits, for Bisonpaw could never make his father proud of him and Stagpaw could never make anyone but his fathers proud of him. Bisonpaw’s mother had passed away shortly after his birth, as had his sibling, and Oakscratch had never particularly recovered. He seemed to rule over his son with an iron paw, desperate to keep him strong enough to survive yet never quite understanding how to do so in a way that didn’t make his son hate him. 

Both tomcats were strong-willed, in their own ways. Even Stagpaw could see that. They had the same brown pelts and wide shoulders, yet one was kind and the other fierce. Oakscratch would never allow the one thing that Bisonpaw truly wanted- To become a medicine cat, for his father saw the profession as below what his son should be doing.

Oakscratch mentored one of the two littermates who also shared the apprentices den- Beechpaw. Beechpaw was reckless and rowdy, and often picked on Stagpaw and Bisonpaw, furthering their beliefs of being the outsiders in their own clan.

Despite that, Stagpaw longed to earn the friendship, or respect of Beechpaw. 

Beechpaw had a sister, Adderpaw. She was a fiery young she-cat, and every bit as fierce as her brother, but she wasn't as mean. She mostly kept to herself, focused on training, but she didn't make any remarks about Stagpaw's heritage. 

Stagpaw hoped that some day all the clan would learn to like him, but he had learned by now not to get his hopes too high.

Shifting in his nest, Stagpaw tucked his tail over his nose and kept his eyes closed. Maybe that would trick his mind into thinking he was asleep, so he wasn't as tired. 

However, his attempts were futile, for moments later the cheery voice of his mentor broke out from beyond the lichen screenage. 

“Ah, Stagpaw! Ye’ awake yet? Your da’ sen’t me out on the dawn patrol! Without ye’! But I'm ‘ere to take ye’ out and teach ye’ a thing or two!” Redrabbit's distinct voice was chipper, and he burst through the foliage. He had always spoken a little funny, but when he was an apprentice, he'd recklessly attempted to track down a fox and had lost his tail as well as a tooth. He'd gotten his warrior name for it.

His boisterous tone had already woken Bisonpaw up, who lifted his head, only to see it was Redrabbit, and lowered it back down. Stagpaw let out a sigh. Today would be a long day, especially with the gathering that would happen later.

“Come on, ye’ lazy scamp! Sleepin’ till Sunhigh!” 

Stagpaw squeezed his eyes shut for a second, before rising to his paws. 

“I'm up, I'm up.” Stagpaw muttered, flicking moss off of his ear. His tabby tail twirled back and forth, and he arched his back in a massive stretch. Great Starclan. I could've slept the whole day if I got a chance.

“Let's get ye’ fed, and we'll be off! I caught a little mouse-y, nice and fresh!” Redrabbit said, winking at his apprentice before bounding out of the den. Slowly, Stagpaw followed. 

Making his way out of the den, he noticed Badgerstar and Slatefox conversing on the rocks just beside the Mossystone, sharing a chaffinch. When Slatefox noticed him, he beckoned Stagpaw over with a tail.

Stagpaw nodded, but hurried over to the fresh-kill pile, and hooked the mouse up with his claws that Redrabbit must've been speaking about. It was still warm, just like he said. As he walked toward his father's, he noticed Adderpaw and Beechpaw, along with their mentors, Fernfrond and Oakscratch, congregating by the entrance with Redrabbit. Stagpaw made a mental note not to take too long.

With the tail of the mouse clamped between his jaws, he hopped up onto the stone that Badgerstar and Slatefox sat upon. 

“Son,”

“Hey, Stagpaw!”

The two toms spoke at the same time, and Stagpaw stretched out his neck to nuzzle each of them. Setting his mouse down, he laid down with his paws folded underneath the rest of him, right in front of his fathers. 

“Hi,” Stagpaw mewed, and only when the tantalizing smell of the mouse filled him did he realize how starving he was. He hadn't eaten anything since sundown yesterday, and after his journey to meet Jewel, he was ravenous. 

As Stagpaw lowered his head and hungrily tore off morsels of flesh, Slatefox and Badgerstar both chuckled and exchanged humorous glances. 

“Slow down, kid. It isn't going anywhere!” Badgerstar said, taking a bite of his chaffinch before shoving the rest of it to Slatefox, announcing, “I can't eat another bite.” 

Stagpaw had finished his mouse quickly, and picked his lips. “It feels like the first meal I've had in an entire moon,” He admitted, meekly ducking his head. 

Slatefox smiled, “Well, chow down. Just don't keep your mentors waiting too long- Redrabbit was disappointed enough that you weren't on the Dawn patrol with him!” After finishing his words, he lowered his head and tore off the final chunk of his meal.

Meanwhile, Badgerstar was sprawled out on the rock, lazily lapping at his belly fur. “I hoped that giving you to him as an apprentice would teach him to be a little more responsible,” He paused in his grooming, looking at Stagpaw with a lofty smile.

 Slatefox continued for him, “Or maybe you'll learn to have more fun. I see you, watching Adderpaw and Beechpaw play, or Sunnyheart's kits tustle. You've got to open up more- Sunnyheart’s kits will be apprenticed any day now, and I'm sure they'll look up to you, if you give them a reason to.”

Stagpaw gave them a forced smile. “Yeah- I'll try.” Inwardly though, he knew that both toms knew exactly why Stagpaw withheld himself. 

They all hated him, with the exception of his mentor, and Bisonpaw. His fathers too, of course. No matter how kind or strong or respectful Stagpaw was, he was always aware of the looks he got, or the hushed murmurs of disdain. The elders didn't even speak to him when he came to change their nests. He could try all he wanted, prove he was as loyal as any cat, and all they would see was that he was born outside of Thunderclan.

He knew it well, but he'd try to be a fierce warrior, even if that wasn't him. Maybe if he acted like a pure Thunderclan warrior, lied to himself enough, then he'd believe it.

“Stagpaw! Come ‘ere already!” Redrabbit's voice startled Stagpaw out of his thoughts. 

Stagpaw shook out his short honey-brown fur, and finished up his mouse in a few bites. Just before scampering away, he apologized to his fathers, “Sorry, I've gotta go! I'll be back after sun-high!” 

Slatefox mrrowed his farewell and laid his head down on the sun-warmed surface, while Badgerstar blinked warmly at him and went back to washing himself.

Meanwhile, Stagpaw hurried over to where his mentors stood.

“There ye’ are! And I was worried ye'd never come along wit’ us!” Redrabbit grinned, his tongue visible in between his tooth gap.

The reactions of Oakscratch and Beechpaw were far less tasteful.

“I don't know why we didn't leave you- You already slowed us down and we haven't even started!” Beechpaw sneered, his tail curling over his head.

Oakscratch towered over his apprentice, eyes dark. “Our time is precious- And you're wasting it. Why our leader and deputy bother with you so much, and not a pure-blooded cat like Bisonpaw is a mystery to me. You clearly have little regard for how we roll around here, and you've spent enough time with us to have known the rules. I'd have half a mind to have you stuck in the elders’ den, until you learned to respect us!” 

The senior warrior finished with an angry snort, and turned around toward the camp entrance, Beechpaw on his heels. Fernfrond followed, muttering something along the lines of, ‘Never should've let an outsider in,’ to Oakscratch. Adderpaw followed her mentor, though there was an apologetic look in her eyes when she glanced back at Stagpaw.

Redrabbit didn't look too fazed, only nudging him with his shoulder. “Chin up, kid! Ye’ll show ‘em!” He chirped, before trotting after the others. 

Stagpaw hung his head, dejected. He hadn't meant to hold them back, he had just wanted to speak to his fathers before he left. He had been hungry, too. Following his mentor, he made an effort to keep behind them- He didn't want to hear anything else they'd have to say about him, because he knew that was exactly what they were talking about.

He followed them, though made sure to stay just behind Redrabbit and no closer. They traveled through the forest, toward the clearing in the woodlands where you could clearly see the sky from between the treetops- one of the few areas in the entire territory.

There were some puddles around, left over from the rainwater from a rainshower that must've happened during the night. The group of six cats all skirted around the largest of them, but it seemed it'd be unavoidable.

“Alright, we'll be sparring with the moves we learned last time we had a group training session- The front paw blow, and foresaw slash...” Oakscratch's deep, brusque tone quickly drowned out in the mind of Stagpaw. 

The honey-brown & white tabby gazed out at the puddles, idly studying his reflection. On his left ear, there was a little nick in it. His chin had a scar that trailed just over his lip, and his nose bridge had one too. The largest of scars was on his right haunch- Two jagged gashes that had been infected at some point.

He didn't really remember getting them. He'd been rather young. All he remembered was the heavy scent of blood that clung to the memory of the vague, yet so clear at the same time, shape of the mangled body that had once been his biological father. Maybe his littermates had been there, too, but Stagpaw couldn't really remember. 

He knew it had been a fox, but that had been due to the recollections of the day from Badgerstar and Slatefox. He didn't think about it too often, since he was grateful for what he had now, but every so often he’d think about it. 

He had had a family, one different from the pseudo-family he already had. He'd had littermates, and a father who could've looked just like him, who would have a little more time for him. He wondered how it'd feel to be less alone, with siblings. Someone who'd always be there for him.

Still though, Stagpaw didn't want to get too worked up over it. He loved Slatefox and Badgerstar, and he loved Thunderclan, too. 

They'd saved him, after all. Without them, the fox would've killed it too. Maybe it had to feed its kits- Slatefox always said everything was done for a reason.

Stagpaw's memory of his earlier days were much clearer from the time after his rescue. He remembered being scared of all the cats and smells, but Badgerstar and Slatefox had come in to keep him company. He felt safe with them, as they had rescued him from the fox.

He remembered hardly being able to walk or see, with all the cobwebs plastered on his face and leg. His leg had gotten infected, and Slatefox practically hadn't left his side, interchangeable with Badgerstar.

He'd recovered, though every now and again the old wound would spring back up again and bother him. He wondered-

“Stagpaw- Stagpaw! For Starclan's sake, get your head out of the clouds!” Fernfrond’s irritated voice snapped him out of his thoughts.

He abruptly lifted his head, and hunched his shoulders, when Oakscratch took over the scolding, “We've been explaining what to do. Are you above that, or something? You ought to go care for the elders until the evening- Maybe that'll teach you respect. Though I'd have half a mind to keep you from attending the gathering at all!” 

Stagpaw felt shame encapsulate him. He knew how to do the moves, but now he had made a fool of himself and now he was in trouble. 

“Well, I'm sure it was jus’ an hones’ misunders'anding-” Redrabbit was quickly cut off by an iron glare from the eyes of Oakscratch and Fernfrond.

Stagpaw felt bad for getting his mentor into trouble, too, now. “I'm sorry- it won't happen again.” He murmured, taking a step backward into the puddle. Guiltily, he lapped at his chest in an effort to hide the bashful expression that had covered his facial features. He’d been hoping to take a nap once he came back to camp, but it seemed that his hopes were now out of the question.

Oakscratch went on. “Now, if you’d like to participate, then I asked you to go stand by that tree. He flicked his round ears toward the base of an aster tree- One of the few in the forest. “Beechpaw and Adderpaw are going to partner up and practice fighting together. You just… Do whatever you know. I’m sure you must know at least the basics by now, you’ve been here long enough.”

Despite giving him an obedient nod, Stagpaw inwardly noted that he’d learned the basic moves ages ago, albeit with Badgerstar, and earlier than most. He flexed his shoulders, hoping to redeem himself in Oakscratch and Fernfrond’s eyes.

. . . Like that would ever happen. 

He slunk over to where Beechpaw and Adderpaw stood. Beechpaw's yellow eyes gleamed with a taunting look to them, while Adderpaw just looked mildly uninterested, lapping at her paws. The littermates looked similar, with the same mostly brown pelt, while Adderpaw's legs were gray. They had the same lithe bodies and long tails, and the similarities only got more prominent the longer you looked at them. Stagpaw wished that he had a sibling, but this wasn't the time to think about that, not if he wanted to keep his paws out of trouble.

Oakscratch had yelled out the command to begin, and Stagpaw hardly had a chance to even reach them before the two apprentices descended upon him. He arched his back, hurriedly bunching his muscles together as he tried to think of what he could do. He didn't even know what they were doing. 

Adderpaw was charging straight for him, but Beechpaw had darted out of view. Stagpaw was able to duck a jab from Adderpaw’s outstretched foreleg. She almost fell forward, and her blue eyes weren't alight with amusement. As though she was just about to say something, she opened her mouth, but it was cut off abruptly.

Beechpaw had barreled into the spine of Stagpaw hard enough to leave a mark. His claws sank into his back, and Stagpaw would've yelped, but Beechpaw had smashed his head against the earth. You're not supposed to use claws!

With a quick glance up, he saw Oakscratch watching them with narrowed eyes. He seemed to notice, but Stagpaw didn't think he cared too much. However, Redrabbit did.

“Hey! The apprentice's usin’ ‘is claws!” His mentor interjected. “T’hat's what ye’ do for a real fight, not a scrap like t’is!” 

Stagpaw felt humiliation overcome him as his muzzle got caked in the muddy earth. However, this was just like training sessions with Badgerstar. He knew what to do. He spun around beneath Beechpaw's grasp, and lashed out with a massive kick aimed to his stomach. Beechpaw let out a massive oomph and was sent stumbling backward, slipping into the mud on his own. Adderpaw stood back, giggling at the sight.

He leapt to his paws, aware of the pricks in his spine from Beechpaw's claws that now had beads of blood appearing, hidden by his honey-brown pelt. While Beechpaw got to his paws, Stagpaw looked toward the mentors. Oakscratch wore an expression of annoyance, and for once it wasn't targeted toward him.

“Beechpaw! You're really going to let him beat you? That was such an easy move to avoid!” Oakscratch scolded, his short tail lashing from side to side. 

“T'hat t'was great, kid!” Redrabbit trotted forward on his long legs, his tongue sticking out between his canines. He helped Stagpaw to his paws.

 He continued, giving him a wink, “I didn’ teach ye’ that- Guess ye've jus’ got good instinc's!” 

Yeah. Instincts- And a bit of help from Badgerstar. 

Stagpaw didn't feel the need to voice his thoughts. Instead, he shook his pelt vigorously, sending clumps of mud & dirty water flying through the air. He wasn't excited to have to clean that off, not one bit. 

Redrabbit kept on chattering, but Stagpaw wasn't really paying attention- It was a bad habit of his, it seemed. He was looking at Beechpaw, who was glaring at his sister. She seemed to be teasing him.

Stagpaw's tabby tail twitched, and he looked away. “Is it time to go back to camp yet?” He said, cutting Redrabbit off and feeling a little prickle of guilt immediately. Redrabbit didn’t seem to mind, though, responding in his typical chipper tone.

”I s’pose in a bit, but we ‘aven’t done too much, ‘ave we? Just with a few more moves that t’hat and we’ll be off!” He grinned, the gap in his teeth exposed as he did so.

Stagpaw nodded, looking at the other mentors. Oakscratch was muttering something in Beechpaw’s ear now, but his amber eyes were fixed on Stagpaw. He straightened under his gaze, trying to meet the senior warrior’s gaze with a cool stare of his own. 

“Come over here, Stagpaw.” 

At Oakscratch’s call, the honey-brown apprentice slunk forward, “Yes, Oakscratch?” 

“I want you to try to disarm Adderpaw. Do what you did back there.”

Stagpaw’s ears pricked. Had he been impressed by his move? Maybe he had to show Beechpaw how to do it. His insides glowed, even if he wasn’t totally sure it was even praise in the first place. He dipped his head with a swift nod, loping back to where they’d practiced previously. Despite his stinging back, he was determined to show them how it was done. It seemed like the first step in earning Oakscratch’s praise. Fernfrond’s too, though she was simply watching from the sides.

Redrabbit already was proud of him, even if he wasn’t necessarily the one who had taught Stagpaw. He was a loud, sometimes irritating cat, but Stagpaw didn’t hate him. He knew Badgerstar was his real mentor, basically, but Redrabbit could learn to be a better warrior with Stagpaw’s example of what a good apprentice should be like.

“Alright- Go!” Did Oakscratch sound amused, or was that just Stagpaw? Regardless, he bunched his developing muscles, his tail giving a final lash through the air, preparing for Adderpaw to rush forward.

When she did, however, he wasn’t met with just her claws, but Beechpaw’s as well. Stagpaw felt the claws of Beechpaw graze his back again, but he was too frightened to say anything- Oakscratch would think he was a mouse-heart if he said anything. 

Adderpaw had backed off, and was watching her brother disdainfully. ‘’Hey! Sheath your claws!”

Beechpaw did, but only after snickering, “Oops. Forgot I wasn’t fighting a mangy rogue. I’m only doing the best for our clan!” Stagpaw felt a tide of humiliation wash over him as he wriggled from beneath the bulkier cat’s grasp, his pelt more muddy than ever. 

Oakscratch and Fernfrond watched, and Stagpaw lowered his head shamefully when he noticed the amusement glittering in their eyes. I’m not a rogue! I smell like a Thunderclan cat! He thought, whiskers drooping.

Redrabbit’s green eyes glowed with outrage, and he hopped to his paws and marched over to the other mentors. “How come my ‘pprentice is the one to get inno trouble for gettin’ distracted, when your’s uses his claws withou’ a slap on the tail?”

Instead of looking sorry, though, Oakscratch’s expression was callous. “Perhaps if your apprentice can’t handle that, he should rethink where he has decided to reside. Any real Thunderclan apprentice would’ve bounced back up from that, but he cowers behind you like a cowed kitten! Thunderclan has no place for cats who believe they’re above the rules just because our leader favors them- Especially those who shouldn’t even have a nest amongst us!”

”Beechpaw was just showing him exactly what he needs to learn if he wants to continue playing pretend- He should go run off into the woods where he came from!” Fernfrond added, her singular eye glittering. 

Adderpaw looked suprised, while Beechpaw snickered, “Yeah! I'm trying to help him see what the rest of us do.”

Stagpaw stared at them, hurt painting his gaze. He wasn't surprised, or anything- It happened too much for him to have expected any less. Still, it hurt every time that it happened. 

Redrabbit looked infuriated, and stomped over to Stagpaw. “Come on, we're gonna’ do our own training’!” He announced, green eyes blazing with outrage. Stagpaw didn't need much to entice him to follow, and he went after his departing mentor with his limbs dragging.

“Redrabbit, can we go home?” Stagpaw asked, his voice embarrassingly high as he spoke. “I don't want to train any longer.” 

Redrabbit looked understanding when he responded. “Of course! Go tell ol’Badge what he did!”

Stagpaw didn't think he would, truthfully. Badgerstar trusted Oakscratch as one of his closest confidants, next to Slatefox. If he told him, Badgerstar’s trust would be destroyed, and he'd probably punish him. That would just make everything worse- He couldn't imagine the things he'd be told then.

“I will,” he found himself saying anyways, the lie tasting almost bitter on his tongue. 

“Good. Now, go an’ get some res’! Your firs’ gatherin’ is today!”

 Hooray, Stagpaw thought dryly. 

He was curious, but he was just as embarrassed. Besides, he still had to get through his punishment. Shamefully, Stagpaw padded the whole way home with his tail dragging on the ground. 

Hopping from stone to stone, at the entrance, he scanned the camp for any signs of his fathers. He couldn't see them, and assumed that they had gone hunting. They often did that, just the two of them. Depending on how long they took, Stagpaw would know if they went to see Jewel or not. However, given that they had seen her last night, he didn't think so.

Slatefox knew Jewel, but on the few occasions Stagpaw went with both of them, he'd always seemed to be at a tail-length away, both mentally and physically. 

Stagpaw didn't know why.

His familial situation was a peculiar one, with two fathers who weren't actually together and also the leader and deputy. Then Jewel- She was technically his mother, if Badgerstar was his father, but she wasn't his mother, you know?

He liked her, but he didn't see her often. She was fun and all, but Stagpaw didn't really have any honesty with her, nor did he really ever speak to her alone. She was Badgerstar’s lover, and really that was all.

Badgerstar was Stagpaw's idol. He knew he loved him, but he always felt that his father thought he was a frail kitten- Stagpaw was desperate to prove him wrong. His fall at the waterfalls hadn't helped. He always felt like he had something to show off when he was with Badgerstar, no matter how much they loved one another. 

And Slatefox… It was easy. Stagpaw never felt as though he needed to hide his vulnerabilities, nor did he need to prove anything. Slatefox was gentle and caring, but he was always busy. Badgerstar too- They didn't always have time to spend on Stagpaw. 

For a cat with virtually no friends, it was a lonely way of living. But it was his life, so he made the most of it.

[warriorsseverance]

I NEVER POSTED MY WARRIOR CATIFIED RDR2 DESIGNS. OR SPOKE ABOUT MY FIC FOR THEM 💀

Dutch, Arthur, John

Molly, Hosea, Sean

the unnamed johnigail daughter, Jack, and abigail/sadie (I merged them)

Annabelle (Jewel), Isaac, Eliza

Micah, Colm, Mary

There's a lot more to come but I just haven't gotten around to them lol. I've been making a little uhh... fic surrounding them I changed a TON of stuff. The plot obviously, kind of warrior catified it and some changes just came along. Charles will be next & the rest of the supporting gang members will be drawn... eventually.

Notable changes:

Redrabbit & Harepoppy (Sean & Molly) are siblings! And Red/Sean is older than Stag/Arthur. Was his mentor.

Sadie and Abigail are merged, as Addergale (get it. Adler-gail). Nothing against either of them I love them dearly but I felt it'd be fun to have a character who could be John/Wolf's love interest but also Stag/Arthur's best friend.

Stag/Arthur has lung cancer instead of TB. I had this idea that instead of the Downes & the bank robbery which kills Hosea, there's going to be a huge fight with the 'pinkertons' (Skyclan) & the 'o'driscolls' (Windclan) join in as a show stopper. Theres a lighting strike which sets the battlefield on fire, which gives WC & SKC the upper hand, taking Slate/Hosea hostage & giving Badger/Dutch a chance to back down- He hesitates, and they kill Slate/Hosea 😋

To show how Dutch/Badger always preached "Revenge was a fool's game", yet didn't follow it & taught this to his sons, Stag/Arthur bolts after the killer of Slate/Hosea, who goes down a Windclan tunnel or a rabbit hole (have not decided) which has been filled with smoke from the fire. Stag/Arthur kills him, and in turn signs his death warrent.

There's a lot more, but you'll have to read the full fic to find out :] Have so much planned. It's called Warriors: Severance (meaning the severing of a relationship... I wonder what that could entail.) and it's posted on my other blog (warriorsseverance) or on ao3. I try 2 post every 2 weeks!

AO3 LINK

[warriorsseverance]

WARRIORS: SEVERANCE CHAPTER 2

ao3 link

By the time Jewel made her entrance, Stagpaw was struggling to keep his eyes open. Badgerstar had been grooming himself, his fur glimmering as he sat in a shaft of moonlight, when a familiar voice perked both of their attentions.

The white she-cat slid out of the brush, with hardly even a twig or thorn caught in her silky fur to show for it. “Hello,” She purred, trotting over to Badgerstar, who had perked up and made his way toward her.

The two cats met one another in an embrace, with their heads pressed in each other's necks. “Took you long enough,” Badgerstar rumbled, bringing his head back and looking into her blue eyes with a pleased expression. “I was sleeping- Don't have anyone to wake me up, you beebrain.” Jewel scoffed, though her face remained quite happy.

Stagpaw watched the greeting, his tail twitching as he waited for his turn to greet Jewel, who he had come to love almost as much as Badgerstar did- but Stagpaw knew that Jewel was Badgerstar’s, and (he) loved her more than anyone. Even more than he loved Stagpaw, but it was alright. He still had time to prove himself.

Finally, after what felt like moons, Jewel seemed to be able to let Badgerstar go. With a final nuzzle against him, she turned toward Stagpaw, leaving his father reaching after her before sitting back and watching from half-lidded brown eyes.

“Hey, kid!” Jewel chirped, and Stagpaw hopped up to rub his back against her chest affectionately, earning a purr and a lap across the head from the white she-cat. “How've you been, squirt?” 

Stagpaw matched her purr, looking up at her from tired eyes. “I've been fine,” His words were interrupted by a massive yawn, and Jewel chuckled before he went on apologetically, “Jus’ tired.” 

“He almost fell into the waterfall.” Badgerstar called out from behind Jewel, and Stagpaw jumped. He didn't know how a cat of his size could be so sneaky- (Stagpaw) already had enough trouble, and he was half his size.

Jewel turned around, concern etched in her gaze. She looked at Badgerstar for a brief moment, before returning her eyes toward Stagpaw. “What? Are you okay?” She said, covering his honey-brown head in a series of worried laps.

Stagpaw felt a flutter of embarrassment fill him. “No, no-” he was interrupted by a snort of Badgerstar’s. “He's alright. I got him- I'd never let him fall.” Jewel frowned, but Badgerstar waved it off, moving forward and pressing himself against his side.

“You know, you should really join Thunderclan. (I'm) in charge, so I could really make sure you'd be welcomed. Stagpaw wouldn’t have to travel up along the waterfall!” He mrrowed, looming right over Jewel’s ear. 

Stagpaw fluffed out his fur, feeling heat rise to his cheeks. He didn't like being seen as someone who couldn't do the simple thing of climbing up some stones. 

Jewel frowned, and avoided Badgerstar's gaze before covering her silky chest fur in long laps. Finally, she raised her chin and met his gaze, a challenge gleaming in her eyes. Her confidence had returned, and she smoothly mrrowed, “My answer hasn't changed, darling. I wouldn't do well with other cats- You two are about as much as I can handle. I'm no clan cat.”

Badgerstar flicked an ear sourly, but shrugged it off and his expression changed to a cheery one in an instant when he looked back at her. However, Stagpaw could tell that he was unhappy with the answer he had received- One he had gotten several times already. Badgerstar never liked being shut down, but who did?

With a grunt as a response, Badgerstar seemed to let the conversation go. “ ‘Course not, my dear.” He rumbled, meeting the sparkling gaze of Jewel with an equal challenge. 

Stagpaw fluffed out his fur, eager for them to move on. He didn't really like interrupting their conversations, but he liked the palpable tension even less. “I like seein’ Jewel here as much as anywhere, and I'll be able to climb the rocks as good as any soon,” He piped up, ignoring the sideward glance he had earned from Badgerstar.

Jewel shifted, opening her mouth as though she meant to add more, but dipped her head instead. Whatever it was, she clearly didn't think it was important enough for the moment. 

“You're right,” Jewel said, looking uncharacteristically antsy, despite her attempts to hide that. “Well, anyways, what's new with your clan?” She asked, glancing at Badgerstar as he spoke. 

“We're fine. Nothing out of the ordinary, in Thunderclan at least. I'm sure we will find out about the other clans during the gathering tomorrow night,” Badgerstar began, pausing just to smooth down his leg fur, to which caused Jewel to snort. “Your fur isn't gonna’ get filthy right now! What's the need to clean yourself all the time?”

Badgerstar abruptly lifted his eyes with the slightest hint of irritation, but he shook it off and raised his head with a grin. “Why, I've got to look my best for my lady, ain't that so?” He questioned, before looking up at the sky. Jewel shook her fur, following his gaze. She spoke out gently, “Well, I've got something I need to tell-”

“It's getting late.” He cut her off, narrowing his eyes, and Stagpaw felt a little surge of relief. Sitting in the moss, he was almost asleep on his paws. However, he was curious as to what Jewel wanted, though he didn't want to question Badgerstar. He knew best, after all. 

Stagpaw rose to his paws, a massive yawn stretching his jaws wide. Jewel glanced at him with a sigh, and shook out her white pelt before responding. “I guess Stagpaw does seem rather tired.” She shrugged, tidying her pelt with a lap on her chest. Afterward, the brightness in her eyes returned and she hopped toward Stagpaw.

She nuzzled him, with their muzzles pressed against one another, before mewing, “Good-bye, my friend. Perhaps I'll see you soon, though I hope it won't be as late as it is today!” Badgerstar snorted from somewhere behind.

“Thanks, Jewel.” Stagpaw said, appreciative of her observation of how exhausted he was. Normally, he was far more talkative with her, but he was too tired to make much small talk.

Badgerstar and Jewel exchanged their farewells, and soon enough Badgerstar was nudging Stagpaw, who had nearly drifted into sleep. 

As the two made their way home, passing through the trees and down their path, Badgerstar remarked, “I suppose I'll be helping you down this time.” 

Stagpaw let out a nervous, breathy chuckle. He was already dragging his paws, and didn't think he could manage it again. 

“Yeah, I s'pose so,” Stagpaw finally answered, shooting his father an apologetic glance, before adding, “But I'll try the jumpin’ on my own.” 

Badgerstar nodded, and the two cats padded in silence the rest of the way. 

Eventually, though Stagpaw only had a mere fuzzy recollection of it, Badgerstar had supported his son when he was nearly too tired to walk.

It felt like moons had passed in the time they spent returning home, and Stagpaw was incredibly relieved when the forest around him was pungent with the scent of his clanmates. Soon enough, he saw the hollow in the ground that made the Thunderclan camp, and he felt like his paws would fall off with relief. 

“Don't be too loud.” Badgerstar’s low mutter snatched his attention away from their camp. “Should've brought a mouse or something, make the hunting excuse more believable.”

Stagpaw just shrugged, too exhausted to do anything more. They nodded to Blossomsneeze, who was the night guard, and made their way down the well-trodden stones and onto camp. It was well into the hours of the night, and the only cat awake was the night guard, who was posted outside. 

However, it seemed Blossomsneeze wasn’t the only one. Just when Stagpaw was about to finally go to sleep, the familiar form of Slatefox emerged from the leader's den, where he seemed to have been sitting all night. 

“You're back. I thought I'd have to cover for you until the morning. Harepoppy was curious as to where you were, and I had to tell her you were out making dirt. You're lucky she hasn't woken up once more,” Slatefox snorted, before he glanced at Stagpaw and his irritation faded from his gaze. “And poor little Stagpaw! You're going to exhaust him.”

Slatefox touched his nose to the apprentice's, who never failed to be surprised at the tone Slatefox could have with Badgerstar. If anyone else criticized him like that, even Jewel, he would've been foul in return, but with Slatefox, Badgerstar just shrugged his shoulders somewhat apologetically. The two toms were friends since birth, so maybe it just came naturally.

“And,” Slatefox began once he had pulled his neck back, “I worry when you're gone so long. Anything could happen away from our borders.”

Badgerstar blinked, “Slatefox. I have nine lives. You can't possibly be worried about me! Besides, I would never have anything happen to Stagpaw. I've raised him just as much as you have!” 

Slatefox just rolled his eyes, and nudged his friend with his black nose. 

“Yes, yes, I know.” He flicked his ears, and got to his paw while turning his head back toward Stagpaw. “Go to sleep now, Stagpaw. I'll ask Redrabbit to go on the dawn patrol so you can sleep in.”

Stagpaw was grateful, and murmured a Goodnight before turning around and making his way to the apprentices den, striped tail dragging on the sandy ground.

Slatefox's muzzle twitched as he fought away a smile, looking at the young feline. 

“He'll become a fantastic warrior,” He said, tail curling over his paws 

 “That, my friend,” Badgerstar conceded, gaze trailing after the honey-brown tomcat, “He will.”

From afar, Stagpaw couldn't suppress a little smile at hearing their words as he slid into the den.

[warriorsseverance]

WARRIORS: SEVERANCE CHAPTER 1

ao3 link

“... Lionclan's warriors lined up with their backs to the sun, each and every one of them ready for battle. Across the river, hidden amongst the ferns and pine trees, crouched countless members of Tigerclan. Their striped pelts helped them blend into the. . .”

Slatefox's words were fading in and out of Stagpaw's attention, his mind beginning to go fuzzy with sleepiness. 

The two, father and son, were curled up together in Badgerstar’s den- Stagpaw still slept there sometimes, even if he did have his own nest in the apprentice's den. Old habits took time to fade, and he was still young enough to enjoy falling asleep to a story. 

It was a routine, almost, that every few nights he would come and curl up with Slatefox and the occasional Badgerstar. He felt safest with his fathers. Outside his little family, there were very few cats who liked him.

Thunderclan was never known for being a welcoming place, after all. Stagpaw just hoped that someday they would see him as more than just an outsider. 

It was the worst with the senior warriors or elders. They were so lost in their own ways that the thought of something breaking tradition was impossible to fathom. Stagpaw had gotten rather used to the sound of their snickering when he passed their dens or the uncomfortable glances the elders shared when he'd follow the other apprentices in for a story.

He was used to it, though. 

He didn't know why Badgerstar had brought him here- or why 

 Stagpaw blinked when the comforting murmur of Slatefox's words in the back of his mind came to a stop, his blue-green eyes focusing on the figure that pushed through the lichen that provided the little cave some privacy.

 “You two seem to have made yourselves comfortable,” The deep rumble of Badgerstar’s voice met Stagpaw's ears, and he raised his head, to which Badgerstar rasped his rough tongue across his forehead. 

Slatefox looked up at his friend with affection glittering in his golden eyes. “You've come here just to interrupt our story, have you?” The silver tomcat teased, his tabby tail twitching. 

Stagpaw watched the banter go on from wide eyes, puffing out his honey-brown fur, until Badgerstar looked toward him. “Come on. The sun is setting- It's time to see Jewel.” He mrrowed, tail raised in the air. Slatefox's eyes closed for a brief moment before he stretched up and left the cave, seemingly at the mention of Jewel. 

But I wanted to hear the end of the story. Stagpaw didn't want to argue with his father, however, and with a glance toward the departing Slatefox, he nodded. 

Badgerstar snorted with mild amusement at the lack of words coming from his son's maw, “What, did ol'Slatefox bore you into silence, or something?” He grinned toothily, flicking his son's ear with his tail. Stagpaw was too tired to speak. Or walk, but he found himself doing that, so he may as well talk.

“Just tired,” Stagpaw murmured, rising to his paws and shaking out his honey-brown pelt, sending remnants from the mossy nest flying. 

He'd been with Badgerstar several times to see Jewel, even when he'd been a kit. His father had used his position as leader as justification, telling everyone that they were going to train so that Stagpaw could be a perfect apprentice. 

It wasn't a total lie, since usually while they waited for Jewel to meet them, he would show him a battle move or two. Nobody questioned him, either, since it seemed most cats completely brushed over Stagpaw's existence as a whole. Sometimes he felt that his vanishing would suit Thunderclan just fine.

However, there was no explanation needed on times like this, when it was late and most cats were in their dens.

 Stagpaw wished he was one of them, but he didn't want to disappoint his father, no matter how tired he was. Besides, he liked Jewel. She was kind and funny, never once looking down on him for things he couldn't help, like his own birth. 

The honey-brown apprentice dragged his paws along the well-trodden path down from the leader's den, blinking back sleepiness with a yawn and a twitch of his whiskers. His blue-green eyes were trained on the large figure of his father walking in front of him, stretching out his legs as he walked. 

Glancing around curiously, it seemed that they were in the clear, as Stagpaw couldn't see a single whisker belonging to any cat in the clan. Badgerstar was several strides ahead of him, already standing by the rocks that marked the entrance to the camp, his brown eyes glinting in the darkness of the night. 

Stagpaw lowered his head, scrambling as quietly as he could, his limbs still groggy with sleep, toward his father. “Sorry,” He mrrowed, only to be met with a flick of his father’s tail against his ear. “Nothin’ to be sorry for, son,” Badgerstar grunted, and Stagpaw's insides warmed. Son. It wasn't much, but even that little bit of acknowledgement  made affection for his father swell up in him.

Badgerstar was such a great cat and leader. Stagpaw was far too lucky to be his son. 

Around them, the sturdy oaks towered above them, the branches intertwining and providing them a canopy that shielded them from any wind or rain, which would make the already chilly night unbearable. The forest was like a cocoon, comforting and safe.

Stagpaw wasn't looking forward to where they were to go next- The Echoing Falls, where there were far fewer trees to shield them from the cold. It was the easiest way to get over the ridgeline that surrounded Thunderclan from the side of outsiders- they were in the rockier part of the valley where all the clans resided. 

It was easy, but equally as dangerous. Badgerstar usually had to help him up, something that Stagpaw had no issue with. Nonetheless, it was always as nerve-wracking as it was his first time. Water from the falls cascaded onto the stones, making them far too slippery for his liking. 

Badgerstar was beginning to climb them, and Stagpaw paused- Wasn't he going to help him up? Stagpaw paused, his ears bent back with a paw raised tentatively. 

He glanced up, and his father was looking at him, brown eyes expectant. “I'm coming!” Stagpaw mumbled, fixing his blue-green gaze on the stones, a determined expression taking over his features. This was a test- He knew Badgerstar well enough to know that.

Stagpaw set off with a leap on the first rock, claws struggling to find a grip on the slippery stones. As using his claws was futile, he flung his forelegs forward and wrapped them around the rock, ears pinned against his head. Badgerstar hadn't made a move to help him yet, so the honey-brown tomcat figured that it wasn't over yet. 

He scrambled up the mess of smaller, slippery rocks toward the steep that he had to jump up. 

Letting a breath that he didn't even know he held exit his maw, Stagpaw looked upward. There was a gap separating him from the ledge he aimed for. Between it was a direct fall into the water- right beneath the waterfall. For such a young cat, the leap seemed daunting- He was no Skyclan cat, after all! 

Stagpaw wiggled his haunches, mouth open as he prepared to spring. His gaze fluttered over to his father- Was he doing alright?

 Distracted, Stagpaw pushed off with his hind legs, flying through the air for a moment that stretched out for so long it felt like moons. The jump was a lot larger than he thought, and his eyes widened to the size of moons as it seemed he was about to land short.

 His shoulder slammed against the rock, stinging painfully, but most of his upper body was on the rock. However, the rock was slanted and he couldn’t find anything to sink his claws into. Panic erupted in him as he scrambled to try to pull himself up- If he fell, then he'd fall into the waterfall. Terror coursed through his veins as the sound of water pounding down the cliff filled his ears. He didn't want to be caught in that- It was a long fall. 

“Help! Dad!” Stagpaw yelped, water splashing from the fall onto him, slicking down his pelt in some parts. His father stood, perched just a few tail-lengths away from him, his brown eyes glowing in the dark. He was about to fall, he felt his claws scrape painfully against the stone, and he braced himself before he began to slip-

In an instant, Badgerstar’s jaws had grasped him by his scruff, and he swung it mid-air for a painstaking moment. Stagpaw's chest heaved, but before he knew it, his father had dragged him back onto solid land.

There were no more jumps- Thank Starclan. It was simple from there, and they could move away from the slippery rocks. Stagpaw gasped, clinging onto the mossy earth like his life depended on it.

 “Easy, son.” Badgerstar rumbled, leaning over to press his nose to the dampened head of Stagpaw. “I wouldn't have let you fall.”

Stagpaw’s eyes fluttered up, still panting heavily. Gratitude shone in them. Once again, Badgerstar had saved him. First, when he was just a kitten, saving him from the fox that was bound to return- or starvation.

The honey-brown tom looked at him, shakily getting to his paws and pressing against his father, who lapped between his ears. “Thanks,” Stagpaw choked out, though his expression made up for his lack of words. 

Badgerstar just shrugged, though a little smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. “Let's just get there, alrighty?” He said, smoothing down his fur where Stagpaw had ruffled it up from standing against him. 

Stagpaw swallowed a lump in his throat before following the black and white cat, this time going through the woods, where there was plenty to sink your claws into. He forced his pelt to lie flat, trying to look nonchalant. He didn't want Badgerstar to think he was a burden, not anymore than he probably already did.

The path was familiar from here, and far safer. They traveled through the brush in silence, the only sound that filled either of their ears was the sound of an owl hooting in the distance. Stagpaw shuddered, instinctively moving closer to Badgerstar. His heart was still pounding from his near-death experience- Getting snatched up by an owl was the last thing he needed.

On the contrary, Badgerstar’s movements were swift and unconcerned. He'd recovered from it rather fast- All too confident in his ability to save him. Stagpaw wished he could have an ounce  of his father’s confidence. 

 “Will I ever be able to make it up the stones?” Stagpaw asked, picking up his pace until he was trotting alongside Badgerstar, the occasional branch catching his pelt as they trudged through the woods. He was desperate to change the subject, as he didn't want Badgerstar to think he was weak.

That was the thing with Badgerstar- He loved him to pieces, but Stagpaw always felt pressured to impress him. It was never like that with Slatefox, who's love came easily and didn't feel conditional. Stagpaw was confident that it was just his irrational worries, but what if it wasn't? He was brought into the clan for a reason, and didn't want to bring his name any shame. 

Badgerstar looked down at Stagpaw, slowing his pace as though finally realizing he was going far too fast. Of course, only once Stagpaw was out of breath already. “ ‘Course, son. Just give it time, and you'll be leaping up every stone in the forest like a- Well, like a little deer.” The Thunderclan leader gave him a little chuckle at his own words, “No pun intended. You'll grow.”

Stagpaw glanced down at his paws. He would- That'd be helpful. He had large paws, and he was often told he would trip on them when he was a kitten, which he still did from time to time. He hoped he'd grow into them. Besides, it'd be nice to be a large cat when he was older. He could keep up with Badgerstar, and protect the borders better than anyone- Maybe that could show everyone he was worth keeping around. 

He was lost in thought by the time Badgerstar came to a halt, and bumped into his hind leg. With a quick apology, he leaned forward to peer out to their surroundings. It was the clearing, alright- But no Jewel was in sight. 

“Where is she?” Stagpaw questioned, blinking and turning his head to face his father, who only shrugged his shoulders in response. “Probably taking her time, you know how she is.” 

Badgerstar's eyes glinted, and he looked at Stagpaw. “How's Redrabbit going? Teaching you well?” He tilted his head, his thick black tail curled around his paws. It was Stagpaw's turn to shrug.

His mentor was fun, but sometimes he could be a bit much. “He's fine, I guess.” Stagpaw shrugged. He was kind to him, thankfully, but the tom was far more used to talking to his kin, not really anyone else. Badgerstar frowned, and shook out his shaggy mane of fur before beginning, “He's scatterbrained- I know that as much. But he's loyal, and hardworking. Maybe an apprentice is what it'll take to help him… Grow up.” 

Badgerstar paused, his whiskers twitching with amusement. “His brother, Flashstrike, already has his first litter of kits, and he's out chasing butterflies! Everyone thought he'd lose some of his recklessness when he lost half of his tail, but that just made him worse, I fear.”

Stagpaw let out a nervous laugh, planting his haunches down against the ground. Was it a test- Was Badgerstar trying to see if he'd talk poorly about a clanmate behind his back? “He's, uh, really fun, though!” Stagpaw felt the need to defend his mentor, just in case.

In response to his son's words, Badgerstar's tail curled and a chuckle fell from his maw. “You certainly didn't learn to be such an optimist from me- You've got that from Slatefox's meddling, I have no doubt.” Stagpaw dipped his head, a little worried. He wanted to be just like Badgerstar, would that get in the way?

“Enough talk of your mentor, now. How about you show me what you've learned from him?” Badgerstar leaned over, questioning Stagpaw. The two toms both rose to their paws, and Stagpaw nodded, narrowing his eyes deep in thought as he thought of what move to do first. He didn't like being put on the spot- He was used to following orders from those older than him. 

As he inspected the area behind Badgerstar, contemplating if it'd hurt to land on it he aimed his jump poorly, the massive body belonging to his father barreled into his chest, consequently knocking the air out of his breath. “There's no time to stand and stare during a real battle! You've gotta act fast!” Badgerstar said, swinging his muzzle close to the wheezing Stagpaw.

Stagpaw didn't like this form of training too much. It was too rough, and Redrabbit had been training him by letting him take his time. However, Badgerstar was  right when he said that it'd be like this in a real fight. He had better learn to take it, or he'd never earn the approval of his clan.

Bunching his muscles, he let out a gasp and finally felt air return to his lungs. “Fight back! Pretend I'm a Windclan warrior!” Badgerstar urged, his grip that was pinning Stagpaw against the mossy earth loosening slightly.

Stagpaw was already advanced in his training. Redrabbit was still trying to teach him the basics, but Badgerstar had already taught him those and then some when he was younger. He still fought to remember exactly what to do now, though.

His memories soon rushed back, and Stagpaw braced himself before kicking his hind legs into the soft belly of Badgerstar, who grunted and fell backwards. Stagpaw leapt to his paws, feeling a little glow of satisfaction when he looked at the pleased expression of Badgerstar’s face. He did it! 

“Good, good!” Badgerstar grinned, raising a paw, licking it, and using it to smooth down the tuft of fur on his head. “We'll make a warrior out of you yet! I bet that Oakscratch's scrap, Bisonpaw, can't do that yet.” Stagpaw shrugged meekly, but his blue-green eyes were shining at the praise. 

Badgerstar looked up, shaking out his fur and rising to his paws. “But we're not over yet! No Windclanner's gonna stop after a kick!” Inwardly, Stagpaw was reluctant to continue, as he was still sleepy and wanted to conserve energy for the trek home. However, he couldn't bring himself to say no to his father. 

Badgerstar gave him very little time to think, regardless, for in an instant the black and white tom rushed forward, surprisingly speedy for a cat of his size. Stagpaw let out a little caterwaul, leaping out of the way at the last moment. Badgerstar landed in the leaf litter, his eyes glinting with approval. Stagpaw darted toward him, springing off the ground and landing on his back.

He hooked his claws through Badgerstar’s fur, careful not to prick his skin. This was a move that he had taught him last time, and he was hoping that he did it right. “Oh, you furball! I taught you too well,” He meowed from below him, but caught Stagpaw off guard with a powerful lurch to the side, and he leapt away in order to avoid being crushed. 

“You're getting better!” Badgerstar said, without even a pant, while Stagpaw was breathing heavily. “I've been practicin',” He responded, the corners of his maw turning into a little smile. He smoothed down his chest fur, though kept an eye on his father. It would be quite in character for him to pounce without warning, to test his ability to watch his surroundings. 

However, the surprise attack never happened, and instead Badgerstar gruffly meowed, “You did real good, son. You'll be a fine, fine warrior when the time comes.” Stagpaw glanced at him, unable to keep the grin that spread across his face down. 

Inside, he glowed with satisfaction. Badgerstar was proud  of him, and that's what mattered the most. 

[warriorsseverance]

WARRIORS: SEVERANCE PROLOGUE

ao3 link

Deep in the thickest woods within the valley, it was, more often than not, serene. It was late at night and extremely calm- only the chirping of the cicadas on the tree disturbed the silence, or the rush of the river that marked the end of the forest. Most animals were asleep by now- Except in Thunderclan’s camp.

Tonight, while most cats slept and awaited the return of their friends later, two bundles of fur, one black and white and one gray, were huddled together in the apprentice's den, too anxiety-ridden to sleep.

Their names were Badgerpaw and Slatepaw, two tomcats who were best friends practically from birth. Their clanmates were out, fighting with Windclan over Eastern Point- Again.

The little peninsula was fought over by them practically every moon. Right now, Windclan held it, and Thunderclan was quick to retaliate.

Badgerpaw and Slatepaw would've gone, had it not been for the rainy day where Badgerpaw slipped and sprained his shoulder, rendering him unfit to go to the battle. Slatepaw stayed to keep him company.

His mother, Sablewren, couldn't even suppress a chuckle when she heard. It was humiliating to get hurt and have your mother laugh in front of everyone you knew. She hadn't visited him in the medicine den, either.

His father came in just to lecture him about being more careful- Slatepaw and Skunkpaw had actually come to keep him company, though.

At first, Snowfleck had thought he had broken his shoulder, but it turned out to be a bad sprain. Badgerpaw was grateful- His path to warriorhood couldn't take that much of a break!

Badgerpaw's father, Coalcrow, and his brother, Skunkpaw, had both gone to the battle, as had Slatepaw's parents. The two toms were similar in the manner that one had parents far too strict, and the other had parents who didn't interact with him enough to be strict. They made up for their losses with their friendship, though.

They'd spent most of their time waiting for the patrol to come home by entertaining Mintflower’s kits; Harekit, Redkit, Flashkit, and Fallowkit, but they had since gone off to their nest, herded by their mother, who advised them to get some sleep as well.

Neither Badgerpaw nor Slatepaw could sleep, though. The more they tried, the more restless they became. Both toms were excited to hear about Skunkpaw’s time in the battle. They wanted to hear everything.

Most every cat had gone to the battle, except for their medicine cat, Snowfleck, and the queens, kits, and elders had remained as well.

Badgerpaw was angry that he had missed out. He had perfected his charge-and-pin, but that's what got him here in the first place. He'd slipped on the wet rock, banging his shoulder against the ground.

Badgerpaw hoped to hear that Skunkpaw did something spectacular. Maybe he got his first kill… Badgerpaw doubted it. Skunkpaw didn't really like the thought of killing. He was fun-loving, and free-spirited. Not a killer, even if, by Thunderclan's standards, that was a good thing.

It was getting close to moon-high. Badgerpaw blinked, shifting beside Slatepaw. Slatepaw stirred, and mrrowed, “You think they'll be home soon? They've been gone for a while.” Slatepaw's tone was bright, but it had a faint echo of anxiety- faint enough to where only a cat used to his mannerisms would be able to see it.

Badgerpaw knew his friend loved his parents, and didn't want them to get too hurt, even if they didn't care for him much. Slatepaw had raised himself, for the most part- His mother and father were more concerned with their self-image of being fun and good warriors. They didn't bother doing anything with Slatepaw, except for the times it'd help them. Badgerpaw resented them in Slatepaw's stead, for Slatepaw could never hate his own family.

Badgerpaw could, though. He was full of hatred. Even if he felt bad for it, since for the most part, his family was better than Slatepaw's. Sometimes.

Badgerpaw fluffed out his long fur, turning to Slatepaw, “They'll be home soon. We won't hear the end of it from Skunkpaw for moons.” He grinned. He was a lot better at hiding his misgiving- When you lied to yourself, too, it eventually felt true.

Badgerpaw tipped his muzzle up, ears twitching. “He'll tell us all about how he chased off the biggest, meanest Windclan warrior. I'm sure Coalcrow'll tell us that it was really him getting chased. Mintflower's kits will get a kick out of it, though.” He assured, his tone confident.

It was Thunderclan, after all.

They always won.

Slatepaw seemed somewhat satisfied by his friend's response, and the two fell into comfortable silence.

What felt like moons later, but must've been until just after moon-high, the sound of cats entering camp alerted the tomcat. Badgerpaw's ears swiveled toward the source of the noise. He nudged Slatepaw, who had drifted into sleep. “I think they're back!”

Unease settled in Badgerpaw's stomach like a pile of rocks, but he tried to force it down. Where were the cries of victory? Maybe they were trying not to wake the kits and elders up.

Badgerpaw slid, stiff-legged from not moving for so long, out of the apprentice's den, Slatepaw on his tail, his paws pitter pattering behind Badgerpaw in an eager way, ready to see the warriors that returned.

The battle patrol was slowly filing back into camp. Brackenstar led them in, missing a clump of fur on his shoulder. A couple scratches were visible through his deep-brown pelt, and Badgerpaw straightened.

It felt off. Too quiet.

Brackenstar’s gaze met Badgerpaw’s for a moment, before darting away, to the apprentice's confusion. “You'd better go speak to Sablewren,” Brackenstar said, tone grave. Badgerpaw exchanged a glance with Slatepaw.

More cats were filling the camp, and Badgerpaw’s insides squirmed with discomfort as he noticed the injuries afflicting most every cat. Urgency sparked in his mind. He had to see if his family was alright.

He shouldered through the crowd, toward the center. He could've sworn he could see the black ears of his mother.

“Sablewren! What's going on?” He called, his normally suave voice cracking, betraying his anxiety. Slatepaw was close behind him, having seen his own parents.

Badgerpaw finally made his way up to his mother, only to see what she was hunched over. Who she was hunched over.

A strangled whine escaped Badgerpaw's throat as he instantly recognized the corpses. Slatepaw stiffened beside him with a wail, but Badgerpaw didn't have the strength to comfort him. The nauseating sight had already taken a toll on him, his mind an awful whirl of emotion.

His gaze was fixated on the bloodied bodies of his father and brother.

Badgerpaw shoved a cat aside, collapsing beside the motionless bodies. Coalcrow's head lolled, jaws parted in a yowl that would never be heard. His father's ear was almost completely clawed off. Meanwhile Skunkpaw's body was in further ruin- Deep, bloody gashes in his side stained and slicked down his black-and-white fur. The worst sight was the awkward angle of his neck… The way it jutted out. It was broken.

No! Skunkpaw and I were supposed to be Thunderclan's greatest warriors. We were supposed to make Coalcrow proud.

Fighting back tears, he wrenched his focus away from the bodies and toward his mother, silently begging for her to do something. To say something. Sablewren seemed to notice his presence then, for she snapped her jaws toward her son, eyes red and angry. Badgerpaw flinched backwards.

“Get away!” Badgerpaw's mother shrieked. He backed away, tail between his legs.

“You should have been there! You knew your brother was too weak to be in a battle alone! You- you should have protected him, so your father wouldn't have to end his life doing it!” Sablewren's voice was trembling, as was the rest of her body.

Badgerpaw stared at her in dismay, his heart sinking in such a way that it felt like it dropped right to the ground. Was that really what she thought? His muzzle twisted- he couldn't handle her behavior toward him. Not this time, not with the smell of his family’s blood in the air.

“It's not my fault!” he shouted, stretching out his neck and puffing out his fur. He was a big cat, already nearly the height of his mother. But Sablewren’s anger was larger than her senses, not fearing her son in any capacity, snarling back at Badgerpaw, her voice low, “It is. Get away!” Badgerpaw jerked back at the sight of the hatred in her eyes.

The crowd of cats had all paused, and were watching the pair, boxing them in like a circle of wolves. Slatepaw stared at them, eyes wide.

“You should've- Should've- I… I hate you! You let them die!” Badgerpaw spat, and Sablewren glared back with a growl from deep within her throat. Being angry was the only way he knew how to process his feelings- After all, he had two fantastic examples of this for parents. She opened her mouth to say more, before Brackenstar and Oakscamper shouldered them apart, letting out furious yowls that just blurred in his ears.

Badgerpaw felt the rage that had enveloped his senses, making them melt away, only to be replaced by a dull throb of anger- and hurt.

You're my mother! Badgerpaw wished to have said, but now it felt like his jaws were clamped together. He couldn't be near the bodies of his kin anymore. They had been so alive this morning- so excited. Skunkpaw was so upset that he couldn't come.

Badgerpaw felt sick to his stomach. He wrenched his gaze away from the corpses and his mother, and backed away.

He turned, and ran out of the camp, not sure where he’s going. Badgerpaw just needed to leave. He couldn't be around them right now. His vision swam with tears, and Badgerpaw didn't stop running until he was well out of Thunderclan's territory, stopping at a small glade. He and Skunkpaw and Slatepaw used to go there all the time to train their moves at night so they'd be better practiced in the morning. For a slight moment the memory fills his stomach with a slight warmth, but it disappears as fast as it appears.

Badgerpaw's chest heaved, and he gazed up at the tree before him, partially stripped of it's bark. He, his brother and friend had all came here and scored their claws through the bark- along with countless others of cats who had discovered the clearing moons before them.

Tears glistened in his brown eyes, looking throughout the forest around him. . Nobody was around anymore. He could let them out now, and did. He slumped down, in the roots of the tree, and buried his head in his paws, thoughts filled with memories of his kin.

What am I supposed to do without you, Skunkpaw?

And Coalcrow.

I never got to make you proud of me.

Badgerpaw's eyelids drooped. The whole day of staying away was beginning to catch up to him.

He thought of Sablewren, and her words.

You should have been there.

He should've. His shoulder didn't even hurt- Guilt swarmed at his insides, but a new wave of anger brought clarity to his mind.

It wasn’t. It wasn’t his fault, was it? It was Windclan’s. They had killed them- They were the reason Sablewren despised him now, the reason for his family to be dead. His brother. His best friend.

Badgerpaw sat there for a while, his thoughts filled his head, until sleep lulled him in, closing his heavy eyelids.

I’ll make sure you don’t die in vain. He promised, and fell asleep.

A sharp prod in Badgerpaw’s side woke him. He hardly even bothered to open his eyes. Leave me alone, Slatepaw. He wished he could sleep forever, or wake up and find that it was all just an awful dream. Maybe any minute now, he’d wake up and remember that he had a battle to go to.

“Hello? Helloooo, are you even alive?”

The voice sounded nothing like Slatepaw’s- Or any cat he knew. Badgerpaw jumped up with a start, his pelt ruffled with sleep.

The unfamiliar cat let out a mrrow of surprise, hopping away on nimble feet. Badgerpaw looked at her sullenly. He didn’t even have the energy nor will to chase her away, as most Thunderclan cats would have done.

“You scared me,” The she-cat purred with amusement, tail flicking through the air, before a slightly more serious expression took over her features. “Who even are you, though? I’ve never seen you here before, and I’m here every day!”

She was a long-furred white she-cat with small little diamond-shaped spots on her fur, and the brightest blue eyes he had ever seen. She didn’t look any older than Badgerpaw himself.

Badgerpaw didn’t answer for a long time, and the she-cat snorted. “Not a very talkative one, are you?” She leaned forward, sniffing him. Badgerpaw recoiled instantly, to the other cat’s amusement. “You smell like one of those bee-brained Clan cats.”

Badgerpaw’s tail twitched. “I am one.” He snapped, his eyes slightly red from the flood of emotions yesterday. He still felt so… Empty.

“That got you going, at least. You’re very grumpy, you know that?” The white cat rolled her brilliantly blue eyes. “I’m Jewel. I live around these woods. I want you to answer me.” She said, tongue sticking out at the end of her words, a playful sparkle in her eyes.

“My name is Badgerpaw.” He grumbled, a bit of his standoffish demeanor beginning to slip away. All he felt now was sad, and lonely. His head drooped, and he slumped down against the ground. “Just leave me alone. I don’t want to talk to anyone.” Not now, not ever.

To his surprise, Jewel laid down in front of him curiously. “But I’ve never actually met a clan cat. Only been chased away by them. Are they all so… Sad?” She questioned, reaching out with a paw to experimentally bap his ear- as though testing whether he was real, or not.

Badgerpaw flicked a black ear, and shifted his head away so he wouldn’t have to look at her. He squeezed his eyes shut.

Jewel scooted back up into a sitting position. “Not a talker. I get it, I guess. My ma’ was like that.” Her mew sounded wistful, as though reminiscent of the past. Her eyes took on a glassy film, and she frowned. “I miss ‘er a lot. When she would talk, it was always so smart. She always said, ‘Jewel, you’ll know all that I do once you lose that sharp tongue of yours’. I was like you when I lost her, you know that? Didn’t want to talk to anyone. Not that there was anyone to talk to,” She added, with a wry chuckle matched with a twitch of her long white whiskers.

Badgerpaw’s ears perked, and he glanced at her. He bit his tongue, fighting back the urge to just tell her everything. Maybe talking to someone would help- She seemed to be in his situation too, but all he could manage out was a quiet murmur.

“My littermate and father just died, too.”

Jewel’s tone softened, and she cocked her head to the side. “Oh yeah? See, we ain’t so different, even if you’re a clan cat.” She held her tongue between her teeth for a moment, eyes glittering with sympathy. “But I know what it’s like- Obviously- but it’ll get better, you know? Just gotta be loyal to yourself. Don’t get lost in your grief- I almost did, and it nearly cost me my life.”

Badgerpaw met her gaze, fighting down a lump in his throat. “Really?” His voice came out far more squeaky than he had intended, but he felt like it was pretty understandable for someone in his situation.

“Yeah, it will.” Jewel said, leaning closer and offering him a toothy smile. “I think you’ll be fine. You’ve just gotta keep moving. Grief’s the price you pay for love, and we all gotta pay the price, sooner or later. But I’m sure they loved you. You’ve got time to move on, and you will.” She assured him.

Badgerpaw nodded, his eyes half-open and glum. However, a. . . Curious look was on his face. Despite himself, the words Jewel spoke gave him some sort of comfort, and Badgerpaw desperately craved that. Sablewren would never give him any solace.

Jewel tilted her head, watching his expression- Seeming to almost read his mind. “I’m not used to being around cats… But maybe if you come here again, you’ll be lucky enough to catch me.” She said, tone teasing. She touched her nose to his, and Badgerpaw blinked in surprise.

And catch her he did.

For moons, and more to come, the two would meet up- Badgerpaw would even bring Slatepaw along sometimes- and just talk. For hours. He learned about how she had been orphaned when she was young, and she’d help him through his grief, and help him when he and Sablewren’s arguments became more frequent, and talked him through her death, as well. She was there when he was Badgerglade, and stayed with him when he inevitably became Badgerstar. She helped him rescue a young kitten, barely a moon old, from a fox.

The kitten’s name was Stag. They couldn’t save his father, nor his littermates, but the best thing they could do was have Badgerstar bring him back to Thunderclan. Slatefox and Badgerstar would raise him, shielding him from the scornful words of the other cats in the clan who couldn’t believe he’d bring an outsider to their clan.

Badgerstar taught him to be loyal, for that’s what mattered the most to him.

The Thunderclan leader would never forget the words of his mother, though. The sting of her tongue would never leave him. He would always remember what had caused his family to crumble, no matter how long ago it was. He even learned the killer of his brother- an older Windclan apprentice named Pythonpaw.

One day, Badgerstar knew he’d get his vengeance.

[warriorsseverance]

WARRIORS: SEVERANCE ALLEGIANCES

ao3 link

THUNDERCLAN Leader - Badgerstar - A massive black and white tomcat

Deputy - Slatefox - A nimble medium-gray bengal tomcat

Medicine Cat(s)- Snowfleck - A old, longhaired gray she-cat with flecks of white

Warriors (cats without kits) Oakscratch - A heavy set brown tomcat with striped darker points Apprentice, Beechpaw (a pale brown tomkit with darker ears and tail) Blackwhisker - A blue-gray tomcat with a singular black whisker Asterhill - A brown colorpoint tabby she-cat Apprentice, Bisonpaw (a huge, heavy set dark brown tomcat with darker points)

Mintflower - A pale brown and white she-cat Blossomsneeze - A ginger colorpoint tom with a splash of white on his chest and blotchy spots like blossoms Fernfrond - A solid gray cat with three legs Apprentice, Adderpaw (a gray and brown color-point tabby she-cat) Redrabbit - A scruffy dark ginger colorpoint and white tomcat with a partially missing tail Apprentice, Stagpaw (a honey-brown tabby tomcat with a white underbelly)  Flashstrike - A pale ginger and white spotted tom-cat Fallownose - A brown and white she-cat with a splash of white on her chest Harepoppy - A small, dark ginger and white she-cat with blotchy spots like blossoms

Queens  Sunnyheart - A longhaired gray she-cat with mottled golden patches (mother to Flashstrike's kits, Dovekit; a longhaired gray and white she-kit with mottled golden patches, Morningkit; a pale spotted goldenbrown tomkit, and Silverkit, a longhaired silver-gray and white tomkit)

Elders  Leafrattle - A calico she-cat who has gone almost fully blind Meadowpurr - A white she-cat with brown patches on her back Squirrelcatcher - An extremely old ginger tabby tom

WINDCLAN Leader - Pythonstar - a long-legged, scruffy muddy-brown Bengal tomcat

Deputy - Valleyview - A tortoiseshell she-cat

Medicine Cat(s)- Bunnyhop - A white she-cat with long fur Beesting - A yellow ticked tabby tomcat with a darker striped tail

Moor Runners (hunter cats without kits) Wolfreaper - A muscular medium-furred black tabby  Lambchaser - A lithe, short-furred murky gray tabby Hawkears - A white she-cat with sparse brown and black patches  Milkweedburrow - A tall white and cream colorpoint she-cat Rue - A black and white cat with small gray flecks, ex loner Apprentice, Lacypaw (a red and white she-cat, ex kittypet) Heathermouse - A small shaded gray she-cat with a white diamond on her face Apprentice, Snakepaw (a small brown Bengal she-cat) Connie - A dark blue-gray and red-brown cat Dovewhisker - a pale blue-gray and white cat, ex kittypet 

Tunnelers (guardian cats without kits) Lichenberry - A mottled dark and gray tomcat  Molemuzzle - A muscular dusky brown tomcat Apprentice, Stonepaw (a stocky gray-brown tomcat, ex loner) Sheepwool - A pale gray she-cat with small ears, ex rogue Dogchase - A massive dark brown tabby tomcat, ex rogue Breezeruffle - A light brown she-cat with a long tail and white paws Apprentice, Hoppaw (a small calico she-cat)

Queens  Eagleflap - a black she-cat with a white tailtip (expecting Lichenberry's kits)

Elders  Grassroot - A shaggy brown marbled tabby tomcat  Whitebush - A white she-cat  Ford - A dark gray tomcat, ex kittypet  Wheatleap - a yellow tomcat with pale stripes 

SHADOWCLAN Leader - Morningstar - a huge, long furred pale brown tabby and white she-cat

Deputy - Pinedale- a reddish brown cat with tabby markings

Medicine Cat(s)- Ravensorrow - A slender black she-cat with a white chest, muzzle and ginger flecks

Warriors (cats without kits) Nettlepool - A honey-brown she-cat Cliffswipe - A gray and white tomcat Hiddenfern - A brown cat with a short tail Duskrise - A brown she-cat with a white tail, chest, paws and muzzle Apprentice, Rabbitpaw (a reddish brown tabby tomcat) Flintwhisker - A longfurred black tomcat Newtnose - A black and ginger tortoiseshell tomcat Darkbranch - A black and pale brown tortoiseshell she-cat  Shadestalk - A dark gray tabby with a white tail tip Rockybreeze - A white tomcat with brown-gray tabby patches Blueheart - A blue-gray she-cat with cream patches Nightwhisper - A black and white she-cat  Quiethum - A black tomcat 

Elders  Lizardscale - a speckled honeybrown tomcat 

SKYCLAN Leader - Prancingstar - a ginger and white tomcat

Deputy - Birdcall - a lanky brown tabby she-cat with a heart shaped stripe on her head

Medicine Cat - Flaxseed - a calico tomcat with a long tail Apprentice, Quickpaw (a black she-cat with a long tail)

Warriors (cats without kits) Mottlestep - A mottled ginger and brown tomcat Apprentice, Crowpaw (a dark blue-gray and white tomcat) Flamelap - A dark ginger tomcat with a streak of white fur  Apprentice, Stempaw (a white and gray tomcat) Erminehop - A white she-cat with brown ears, legs, and tail  Whistledove - A stone-gray cat with brown tabby patches  Gravelshower - A speckled gray tomcat with broad shoulders  Apprentice, Frogpaw (a white she-cat) Alderbrook - A lanky brown tomcat  Stoatjaw - A golden tom with a white jaw Tanmaw - A tan tabby she-cat with a long tail  Purrheart- A warm gray she-cat with a striped tail and face Peakclimb - A sandy gray cat with white legs Honeyswirl - A yellow she-cat with a white underbelly  Cardinalray - A dark ginger she-cat with white ears Robinblink - A dark ginger she-cat with a lighter underbelly Chilispots - A mottled clay-red cat with darker spots and a lighter underbelly, former kittypet Dewfleck - A longfurred silver tomcat

Queens Jaywillow - A silky-furred silver she-cat (mother to Gravelshower’s kit; Minkkit, a spotted silver shekit) Fennelnose - A brown she-cat (mother to Flamelap’s kits; Gingerkit, a dark ginger she-kit, and Pouncekit; a brown and white tomkit)

Elders  Pearbloom - A brown and white mottled she-cat  Maplestem - A ginger, brown and white she-cat 

RIVERCLAN Leader - Clamstar - A silver and white she-cat 

Deputy - Chasmecho - A small white she-cat with long fur

Medicine Cat - Fishbones - A brown and white tabby she-cat 

Warriors (cats without kits) Salmonrib - A reddish brown she-cat with white legs and tail Coralpelt - A pale reddish-brown she-cat with a tabby tail and face Rustystream - A dark ginger tabby tom Puddlepounce - A gray and cream she-cat with long fur  Apprentice, Milkpaw (a cream-furred apprentice) Hollyshell - A longfurred tortoiseshell Mistymire - A silver she-cat with a missimg ear Apprentice, Willowpaw (a gray she-cat with white spots) Foghop - A pale blue-gray feline with colorpoint markings Reedpatch - A white she-cat with a dark gray tabby patch on her back Cascadingpool - A white she-cat with gray tabby ears Troutyowl - A massive, longfurred tomcat with small ears and gray fur Shrimptail - A pale cream tomcat with a missing tail Tinyfish - A very small blue-gray tomcat Apprentice, Bubblepaw (a gray and cream calico)

Queens  Thornfin - A silver and white tabby she-cat who stays in the nursery  Pearlflower - A white she-cat with cloudy fur (mother to Troutyowl's kits, Finkit; a white tomkit, Pondkit; a gray and white tomkit, Flowerkit; a white and gray shekit, and Pikekit; a white tomkit) Lilyreed - A small brown and ginger she-cat with small ears (expecting Rustystream's kits) Lakeswirl - A blue-gray she-cat (expecting Shrimptail's kits)

Elders  Fieldpuddle - A brown tabby tom Sleetmist - A silver and white she-cat with a striped tail

[warriorsseverance]

WARRIORS: SEVERANCE AUTHOR'S NOTE

Hi there! First of all, I'd like to preface a thank you to everyone who chose to click on this work. It's an important story to me, based off of Warriors by Erin Hunter, but some plot events & characters are heavily influenced by Red Dead Redemption 2. Both fandoms are very influential on who I am, and I hope everyone enjoys this as much as I will.

Just a note about our clans- While sharing the titles of our well-known canonical clans, as well as the basic backbone, they're extremely different from what we see in the books. They all seem to have their own moral compasses, deep-rooted in their histories, but still united under the Warrior Code.

Thunderclan cats are loyal & bold, but prejudiced against other clans which makes them seem stuck-up. They're also the most power-hungry, believing that they are the truest clan. Thunderclan familial bonds are extremely strong, and the clan is very close knit, but unafraid to show their claws at a moment's notice. They are proud and follow the code to a T.

Windclan cats- dammed by Starclan, or at least, thats what they have grown to believe. They have the smallest territory, where the relentless wind scares prey into their holes. Their kits were often snatched by Hawks, or unable to withstand the hardship, so Windclan turned to outsiders for a chance of survival. Today, most of their members are atheists, and have outsider blood.

Riverclan cats live out on an island, situated on a shallow lake that looks like a mirror of the sky at night. This led the early Riverclan cats to believe themselves to be blessed by Starclan. They're incredibly spiritual cats, if not a little pompous at times. They're known for being well-fed and with sleek, healthy fur. However, they can be extremely egotistical.

Shadowclan lives the farthest from the other clans, in a low, rocky valley between the mountains. Their territory is known for being the most dangerous, with places filled with vipers, and land that gets flooded often. Their woods are foggy and lonely, and the cats of the clan share that sentiment. They keep to themselves, not often getting involved with other clans' affairs.

Finally, Skyclan, the righteous peace-keepers of the clan. They follow the code, yet will not hesitate to help anyone that needs helping, including outsiders. They can be seen as nosy, trying to stick their whiskers into everything, but they don't care. They live on a mountain- which would be difficult for most to trek up daily, but they're built for it.

United under their code, it seems all is well.

What will it take to test their unity?

[warriorsseverance]

WARRIORS: SEVERANCE MASTERLIST

ao3 link (i'd recommend reading here! kudos/comments very appreciated)

authors note

allegiances

prologue

chapter 1

chapter 2

chapter 3

chapter 4

chapter 5

chapter 6

chapter 7