Shrouded In Mystery
Prologue
A summoning howl pierced the tranquility of the peaceful night. Starry shapes appeared from behind larch trees and gorse bushes, ears pricked and heads inclined forward in curiosity. A few nights ago, Spottedpelt, a warrior who had walked the stars for countless moons had asked Goldenstar, a newcomer, to find a warrior to fulfill a prophecy. They all gathered around a pool, Goldenstar and Spottedpelt sitting across from one another. Goldenstar touched the pool with a dark paw. Ripples spread to the edges of the pool, and they lapped gently at the bank. A silvery image appeared. There was shuffling and complaining as everyone crowded to get a closer look.
Snarls of disapproval and anger met the sight of the image. But Goldenstar sat coolly on the tree stump, not bothered by the cold fury that hung in the air. Spottedpelt raised a paw for silence.
"Let Goldenstar explain."
Goldenstar stared at Spottedpelt with the golden eyes that had given him his name. "Just look at him, Spottedpelt. Just look."
Spottedpelt bent down and gazed at the silvery image on the calm surface of the pool. After a long pause, he looked up.
The two figures sitting on tree stumps stared at each other.
"I understand, Goldenstar. I understand. The meeting is over."
Starry shapes melted into the trees.