Prologue

The Bushes rustled as the gray blue tom slipped toward his destination, knowing what he would find. Sure enough, as he neared the clearing, he heard a rustling and a familiar scent. His heart ached as he called out.

"Orangepaw!"

The flame-colored tom ran toward him, his green eyes shining.

"Greetings, Creeknight."

He touched his brother's muzzle to his and stepped back to see the Castclan Medicine cat looking at him curiously.

"Why have you called me here tonight, when I haven't seen you in seasons? Is trouble on the way to Castclan?" His mew was edged with nervousness as he twitched his plumed tail.

"No, but nonetheless, I must tell you something." Orangepaw watched as his kin's eyes danced with curiosity and excitement.

"Be welcoming. Be careful to whom to, but open your heart to the new and watch your clan flourish." Ignoring the puzzled look on his companion's face, he turned and pushed his way through the reeds behind him.

"Wait!"

But it was too late- Orangepaw had disappeared, leaving only one thought in Creeknight's head- What could possibly be happening?