Graystripe paced along the river. Mist rose from around him, and as he lashed his tail impatiently, it cast swirling circles into the night air. He'd seen this many, many times, and he was eager to get it over with.
A soft padding of pawsteps sounded from behind Graystripe. Silverstream emerged from behind the reeds, Graystripe nodded formally to the stunning silver she-cat.
She can't be here. She's left me for StarClan.
It was as if Silverstream could hear his thoughts; she had dipped her head in sorrow.
Maybe she could. Maybe it's a skill she's learnt from her new Clanmates.
"Graystripe," Silverstream breathed. Her voice was full of sadness, and it was tinged with regret.
"You shouldn't be here." Graystripe's voice was harsh, and as he said that, Silverstream felt as though her world was splitting into half.
"Graystripe, I… " her voice cracked. What could she say? That she was sorry that she'd left him – and his kits?
"Graystripe, I'm so sorry," Silverstream meowed mournfully. "I… I wish I'd been stronger."
There was an awkward silence as Graystripe stared at her stonily. A ball of ice churned in the silver cat's stomach – what had she been thinking? Graystripe would never forgive her for abandoning Featherkit and Stormkit… or himself, for that manner, but Silverstream knew he was selfless enough to put his kits first. What can I do to convince him that I'm sorry?
"Is that all?" Silverstream's trance was broken by Graystripe's dull, expectant voice. He turned away, heading for the stepping stones in the river, ready to return to RiverClan territory, his gray pelt looking black under the shadows of the moon.
The words rushed into Silverstream's throat, and the she-cat fought the urge not to scream for him to stop and look back at her with his lost, amber eyes that were once full of love and friendship.
"Graystripe, wait."
He turned around, and Silverstream took a deep breath.
Come on. This is your only chance.
"I came here," the daughter of Crookedstar said softly, "To apologize. I'm sorry I left you and Featherkit and Stormkit – I loved you all – but when StarClan calls, not even the strongest warrior or medicine cat can save them. I am not asking for your forgiveness. I just wanted you to know I tried my best to stay alive, and that I'd always be watching over you."
Then Silverstream walked away with her head bowed, never looking back to see Graystripe's reaction. Every pawstep she took was full of agony – and pain filled her lungs as she finally left the dream and returned to StarClan.