"You're awake." Cinderpelt got to her paws and limped over to a corner of the den. Swiftpaw flinched when she limped toward him with something in her mouth, but relaxed when she set it down and backed away. She could probably smell his fear.
"Those are some herbs to help you start healing." The medicine cat explained. "It's been more than a few sunrises since you woke up but you still have a long way to go. Would you like some water?" It hurt to lift his head but one look told him that sticky cobwebs smothered him from head to tail. He rested his chin on his paws and focused on keeping his eyes open. Cinderpelt came back with a wad of dripping moss and it took all his strength to open his mouth.
"Bluestar, Fireheart and Cloudtail were here earlier. You might not remember much but you woke up for a few heartbeats. Bluestar gave you a warrior name. Cloudtail insisted because he wanted Brightpaw to have one in StarClan. You are now Swiftclaw and Brightheart." Cinderpelt informed the black and white tom. He let the knowledge sink in. They had achieved their goal mm of becoming warriors, but if the price was Brightpaw-heart's life then StarClan should take him as well. There was no point to such a hollow victory.
"I thought I told you to get some rest." Cinderpelt snapped at the unknown cat. A flash of white fur told him exactly who it was.
"I couldn't sleep." Cloudtail admitted as he padded over to Swiftclaw.
"Good to see you awake." The white warrior meowed.
"Why?" It hurt to move his mouth, let alone try to speak. His voice came out in a rasp and he licked at the moss ball.
"I need to know that Brightheart's death meant something, and if that means keeping you alive then I'll do it."
It was supposed to be him... he should be dead! He didn't want Brightheart to die!
"Do you think you can eat?" Cloudtail asked.
"Hurts." Swiftclaw croaked out.
So much pain... he let his head drop back onto his paws and closed his eyes. Hopefully he would feel better when he woke up. Not like he deserved it.
Dear StarClan, why?!
