Chapter 3

When they finally set paw into Thunderclan camp, the cats who had been left behind immediately clamoured round the returning ones. The camp was full of yowls from various cats, demanding to know what had happened. Firestar was puzzled; they weren't usually this excited. However, he bounded up onto the Highrock and told them what had happened.

"Leopardstar has announced the arrival of a strange new disease which so far, has affected only Riverclan." He said this in a grave tone. The clearing quieted down, and he went on."Whenever you bring freshkill back to camp, please check it carefully for any signs of disease. At this stage, this is the only thing we can do. I'm sure you wouldn't want Thunderclan infected, right?" He meowed dryly.

Purrs of agreement erupted, and Firestar then ended the clan meeting. He padded back to his den for a good night's rest, but suddenly found Sandstorm beside him.

"You're not worried, are you?" she asked worriedly, concern sparkling in her eyes.

"Nope!" he playfully batted her whiskers. What he just said was a lie of course. He didn't want Sandstorm to be worried."Let's go to sleep. See you tomorrow!"

Firestar was up and about before dawn broke. While he was busy aranging the dawn patrols, Brambleclaw came up to him.

"Firestar, you know, about the disease Leopardstar told us about? Do you think it's serious?" he asked worriedly, whiskers twitching. Firestar was stunned for a moment. That was exactly what he was so worried about!

Regaining his composure, he answered in what he hoped was a comforting tone,"I don't think there's anything to worry about. For now, we've already stepped up precautionary measures, and I'm sure that disease isn't very dangerous."

Brambleclaw nodded, relieved. " Thanks," he meowed, and slowly padded away.

'Wait, Brambleclaw! Can you lead a dawn patrol?" he called out after Brambleclaw's retreating figure.

'Sure," he spun around, surprised that his leader would ask him.

Firestar smiled gratefully; one problem was now solved."Thanks! Report to me if you find anything ... strange."

Brambleclaw dipped his head and went off to collect more cats for the patrol. By this time, Firestar's belly was growling loudly.

'Sorry," he grimaced at Brackenfur who was staring at him. He then headed straight for the freshkill pile to grab a vole. While crunching contedly on his food, he was approached by Brambleclaw, Thornclaw and Brackenfur. He was surprised that they were so quick.

"Firestar!" they panted in a rush, " we found some strange stuff near Snakerocks; and there are Twolegs digging there!"

He stood up straight immediately. 'What do you mean?" he growled.

This time, Thornclaw answered, and he spoke slowly."There are Twolegs digging up something, near Snakerocks."

Firestar thought frantically. Could this be what Bluestar had warned him about? If so, the whole clan would be in danger!