I'm very sorry about these long waits for my updates, but I'll try to prevent a wait this long from happening again. As well, thank you for continuing to read my fanfic. I'm hoping to make a long, winding tale, and your support constantly encourages me. In this chapter we catch up with Leafkit again. Next time we'll find out what Tidepaw is up to, but her adventures won't be as monstrously long as last time. Anyway, please enjoy the latest installment of Golden Dawn: Lost Sunrise!
Chapter 3
The crisp morning air was cool against Leafkit's fur. Hints of a light breeze had found their way into the nursery, and Leafkit admired how the hairs on her pelt calmly swayed to and fro.
Leafkit had woken early, desperate to hear the events of the Gathering from her father. After rousing herself, she had found that it was before dawn, but she had refused to go back to sleep, fearful that she would rest for too long and not get to see Galeflight until the evening. So instead she waited, anticipating the news that Galeflight would tell her, and the knowledge of the other Clans which she would obtain.
Leafkit scented the air, trying to determine what time it was. Soon, she realized the futility of her actions. The scent of the air outside was hard to read once it had mixed with the familiar earthy scents of the nursery floor, as well as the scent of fresh milk. Leafkit instead focused on her sense of hearing, listening for any sounds of movement in the WindClan camp. By straining to hear, Leafkit could make out the soft sounds of paws moving across the camp, the whispers of cats, and the songs of birds. It was time for the Dawn Patrol to head out.
Leafkit couldn't contain her growing excitement, or her natural curiosity any longer. She rushed out of the nursery and scanned the camp for Galeflight. Her eyes locked on an area just outside the leader's den, where Galeflight was deep in discussion with Ravenstar, Fieldstone, Moorwhisker, Woodfur, and Ivypelt. Why is Ivypelt there? wondered Leafkit. She's supposed to be in the nursery, expecting Graynose's kits. With a jolt, Leafkit realized that Ivypelt hadn't been in the nursery when she had awoken. How long has this meeting been going on? Leafkit allowed herself a moment to arrange her thoughts, before scampering over to where Galeflight was.
Leafkit felt a small thrill as she raced towards the group of cats. As a WindClan cat, it was natural to have a love of running, even if Leafkit was much slower than the other kits. "Father, what happened at the Gathering?" Leafkit asked when she finally reached him.
Galeflight's eyes flickered around in momentary surprise. "Oh, Leafkit," he greeted, understanding that his daughter had woken up early. "We're kind of in the middle of an important meeting right now, but I'll have plenty of time to tell you later. Why don't you wait until Hawkkit and Gustkit are up?"
Fieldstone glanced at Galeflight as if he should have been embarrassed, but Galeflight shrugged in reply.
"Maybe when you take the other kits and me out to look around the territory?" Leafkit proposed. If her father was doing something important, she didn't want to interrupt, but she also had to know when he would have time for her.
Galeflight nodded. "That sounds great!" he replied. "I'll give you the news when I show you around WindClan's territory."
Leafkit was satisfied by Galeflight's response, but before she could thank him, Fieldstone cut in to the conversation. "You can't take kits out into the territory!" the orange and white she-cat snarled. "Not with a situation like this."
Leafkit was taken aback by Fieldstone's words. The barely contained fury laced between them hinted at a deeper bond of hatred Fieldstone shared with Galeflight. She prepared to offer Fieldstone an apology, explaining that exploring the territory was her idea and not her father's, but she was cut off by Galeflight.
"I'm sorry Fieldstone, but I made a promise to the kits," Galeflight explained. "I won't break a promise, and I don't accept any excuses." He positioned himself between Fieldstone and Leafkit, as if the angry warrior might attempt to snatch his daughter away from him.
Fieldstone hissed at the ginger warrior. "An excuse?" she snarled, pure rage now seeping into her growl. "So you consider the lives of your kit, and the kits of others, an excuse?" Fieldstone slammed her paw to ground, glaring at Galeflight the whole time.
Galeflight nodded to Fieldstone. "I have to keep my promises," he replied. "Besides, if I didn't, they'd just sneak out anyway. Surely it's safer for these kits to have a warrior escort? If you're so concerned, you can tag along and bring Boulderpaw with you. Is that okay, Ravenstar?"
Ravenstar looked thoughtful for a moment, then nodded his approval to Galeflight. "Fieldstone, your duties for today will be helping Galeflight show these kits around WindClan's territories."
Fieldstone was taken aback by Ravenstar's words. "Surely you can't agree to this madness!" she gasped.
Ravenstar shook his head, eyes showing obvious wisdom. "I already have," he told her. Then he turned his head to Leafkit. "Now, run along, young kit," he purred. "The fate of the Clan hangs in the balance."
Leafkit nodded and began to pad away from the group of warriors. As she did, her mind started to churn. Wait, my safety is at risk? Father is hiding something from me. Does it have to do with what the warriors are discussing? Leafkit suddenly realized that she had walked into an empty den. From a quick sniff, she could tell that it hadn't been used in quite some time. I wonder what this den is for? Maybe I could listen to the discussion and find out what's troubling those warriors. Leafkit strained her ears, and she could make out some of what was being said.
Fieldstone's meow rang the clearest in Leafkit's ears. "You idiot!" she snarled at someone, most likely Galeflight. "You make a big spectacle at the Gathering, and now this! Do you have some secret inner desire to throw yourself into the closest danger you can find?"
Ivypelt mewed something in reply. Although it was softer than Fieldstone's harsh rant, Leafkit could still hear it through her strained ears. "Please Fieldstone, don't be so harsh on Galeflight," she interrupted, trying her best to sound reassuring. "I know that you don't like him, but you could try to understand that he only does what he thinks is best."
"Like speaking out against the Clan leader?" snapped Fieldstone in reply. "Yes, how noble. Let's get back to our discussion, alright?" Leafkit was shocked. Galeflight spoke against Ravenstar? But the word of the Clan leader is the warrior code! What did he think he would accomplish?
Leafkit pushed her warrior to the side, as Ravenstar was beginning to speak. His words were a low growl, and while Leafkit knew that he had said, "Bonetail" and "Ace, the Rogue Hunter", she couldn't hear anything else. Bonetail? What does he have to do with this? Didn't Moorwhisker's patrol drive him out? Leafkit listened carefully, hoping that the response to Ravenstar's speech would reveal the answers to her questions.
Suddenly, Leafkit detected the scent of an intruder in the cave. Leafkit's shock broke her focus, and her eyes flickered to the new arrival. She had been concentrating too hard on the words of the warriors, and hadn't been able to smell or hear a new cat heading into the cave.
"Now, now, young she-cat," Brambletail gently scolded. "You know that kits aren't supposed to eavesdrop on the senior warriors."
Shame came over Leafkit, and she bowed her head. "I'm sorry," she apologized to Brambletail. "I just wanted to know what happened at the Gathering."
Brambletail smiled at Leafkit. "Don't worry," she purred. "You'll learn all about that later today. But for now you should get back to your mother and littermates in the nursery." Leafkit nodded and followed Brambletail as she headed for den where the queens and kits waited.
As Leafkit walked, a question formed in her mind and she asked Brambletail. "Why is that den there anyway?" Leafkit inquired.
"That den?" Brambletail asked. She thought for a moment, then came up with an answer for Leafkit. "In times when the Warriors' Den was too crowded, it was used as an overflow den," Brambletail explained. "We don't have as many warriors now, so it's become disused. Ravenstar has been talking about finding a use for it, however. We might just be able to do something with it soon."
Leafkit nodded to Brambletail as they reached the Nursery. The familiar scent of milk reached Leafkit's nose as she rushed back to her mother and littermates. "Thank you!" Leafkit called to Brambletail.
Brambletail flicked her tail in response as she walked away. "Any time!" the she-cat called back to Leafkit.
Leafkit slowly padded over to her den and crawled in, curling up next to Dovesong, Gustkit and Hawkkit. She suppressed a yawn as her eyelids began to droop. I'm not tired! I have to wait until the meeting is over. Leafkit's eyelids slammed shut. Okay, maybe I'll take a quick rest. But it will only be for a moment. Leafkit tucked herself in next to her mother and siblings. Sleep overcame her instantaneously.
…
"Hey, wake up, sleepypaws!"
Leafkit felt something pushing her back and forth, shaking her out of her slumber. Leafkit's eyes cracked open, ever so slightly. Sunlight was streaming into the nursery, and she could see Hawkkit standing over her.
"Finally!" exclaimed Hawkkit. "I thought that you might sleep for a moon!"
Shocked out of her drowsiness by Hawkkit's comment, Leafkit pulled herself to her paws. She blinked, then rubbed her eyes with her paws. "What time is it?" Leafkit asked.
"About a few minutes after Sunhigh," replied Hawkkit. "I never knew you for a sleeper, Leafkit. Just how late were up?"
"Um, I fell asleep at a reasonable time," replied Leafkit. It wasn't really a lie. She had only slept so late because she had woken up far too early.
"Sure you did," smirked Hawkkit. "Anyway, at the Gathering, Ravenstar told the RiverClan prey-stealers that they couldn't keep taking our food, and there were reports of Bonetail making trouble."
Leafkit shivered with excitement. So you're still around, Bonetail? That's good. I'll fight you myself, and then I'll kill you. The only thing an enemy of the Clans deserves is death. Then Leafkit sighed. "This whole problem with the rogues is undermining the authority of the Clans!" she snarled, slamming her paw into her bedding. "Why can't we just kill every outsider who intrudes on our territory? We could solve so many problems!" Leafkit lashed her tail as images of evil rogues appeared in her mind.
"Because of the warrior code, my dear," cooed Dovesong as she stepped into the den. Gustkit trailed after her, carrying a plump rabbit in between his jaws. Leafkit could sense the joy her brother felt as a result of being allowed to carry the fresh-kill. Dovesong curled up in the nest with her kits, and Leafkit rubbed against her mother's warm white fur. "We won't deprive them of a kindness just because they remain ignorant of it," Dovesong explained as she licked Leafkit's head. "From the fiercest of rogues to the tiniest of kits."
Leafkit bowed her head. "I know that," she admitted, with guilt in her mew.
The sixteenth rule of the warrior code stated, "Outsiders and intruders must also be shown the mercy of the warrior code. Allow them safe passage, and kill only in self-defence." It had been implemented more than three Newleafs earlier, when a ShadowClan warrior had killed two loners, mistaking them for rogues. The rule was made so that senseless deaths such as that one would never happen again. ShadowClan had never divulged the identity of the warrior who had done the deed, but Leafkit understood. The ShadowClan cat could answer to their own conscience. It wouldn't be right for a cat to be forever remembered for a foolish mistake they had made as a young warrior.
Gustkit dropped the rabbit down in the den, and Leafkit sniffed it hungrily. Rabbit was delicious, and as such it was the true prey of WindClan warriors. "After I'm done eating, I can go see father, right?" asked Leafkit. "He's taking me out to explore the territory today!" She felt pride swell her up. As long as Galeflight didn't give a long speech in the middle of the tour, the day would be perfect. She glanced at Hawkkit and Gustkit, expecting an envious response.
"I hope so!" Gustkit pitched in. "Galeflight said that Hawkkit and I could go as well!"
Leafkit felt herself deflate a little. "But I thought, I wanted…" she muttered.
Hawkkit shot a coy grin at Leafkit. "So someone wanted to go without their siblings, did she?" asked Hawkkit. "It's kind of similar to how Eaglekit would much prefer it without Harepaw around, wouldn't you say?"
Leafkit tried again to figure out Eaglekit's dislike of the brooding apprentice as she chewed the rabbit. She couldn't come up with anything, so she gave in to Hawkkit. "Why does Eaglekit hate Harepaw so much?" she asked.
Hawkkit flicked her tail at Leafkit in a teasing way. "You're still so oblivious, my sister," she smirked. "How do you not understand?"
Leafkit grumbled. You could just tell me these things instead of holding my lack of understanding over me. Would explaining what everyone else knows really be so hard? Then she tore off another piece of the rabbit and swallowed it. Leafkit gave a satisfied purr. "All done!" she told Dovesong. "Can I go outside now?"
Dovesong nodded. "You're free to explore, my beloved kit," she told Leafkit. "Just stay safe."
"I will!" promised Leafkit as she darted out of the nursery.
The warm sunhigh air washed over Leafkit, shaking the last bits of drowsiness out of her fur. She surveyed the camp, searching for signs of anything she could entertain herself with while waiting for Galeflight's tour to begin. Leafkit noticed a few cats leaving on a border patrol, Ashfall bickering with the younger warriors, a couple of cats sharing tongues as they ate fresh-kill, and Ravenstar having an important discussion, this time with Emberfoot and Pinefur. "Nothing out of the ordinary," murmured Leafkit.
A light breeze was blowing, and Leafkit decided to see what scents it brought in from the moor. She savoured the smells of heather, rabbits, and earth. Then another scent caught Leafkit's attention. Another Clan? Leafkit shifted her focus to the intruding Clan cats. From the proximity of the scent, she could tell that they were nearly in the camp, so she rushed to the entrance to stop them. Is that…ThunderClan? I have to alert my Clanmates.
"Invasion!" yowled Leafkit, hoping to put the Clan into high alert.
The ferns at the entrance to the camp began to rustle, and a ginger tom stepped into the camp, a bundle of herbs clasped firmly in his mouth. Leafkit leaped at him, striking him squarely in the chest with her unsheathed claws.
The tom let out a yowl of pain, releasing the herbs, which scattered across the ground. He slumped over on the earth, and let out one final screech before falling silent.
Leafkit dropped into a battle position and snarled. She tried to think of what the warriors of Flamefur's tales would tell an invader, and she quickly came up with something. "I am Leafkit, WindClan's fiercest warrior," she explained. "I don't care who you are or what your reasons are. I will never allow anyone to hurt my Clanmates!" Leafkit felt courage fill her, and she hissed at the tom.
He let out a mew of amusement in response. Leafkit steadied herself, ready for a counterattack. I can't let myself get too caught up in the thrill of battle. This tom could be lulling me into a false sense of security. Then her eyes locked onto the ferns, which rustled again, announcing reinforcements for the ThunderClan tom.
A silver tabby tom, who was also carrying herbs, stepped into the camp. Upon seeing his companion splayed out on the ground, he set his herbs down and sighed. "Must you always be so theatrical?" he asked the ginger tom.
The ginger tom pulled himself to his paws and gave a bow to his Clanmate. "Alas, WindClan's fiercest warrior took me by surprise," he explained, gesturing towards Leafkit with his tail. "Snowcloud must have neglected to mention that WindClan was under her protection."
Leafkit felt a rush of pride, and she fluffed up her fur to intimidate the silver tom. "You bet I'm the fiercest warrior ever!" she bragged. "Just watch! I'll shred you both, and then Thornstar will need his medicine cat's help to put you back together!"
"That would be fairly difficult," purred the ginger tom. "After all, I am ThunderClan's medicine cat."
Leafkit dropped out of her battle crouch. "Wait, what?" she asked. "Why is a medicine cat leading an attack on another Clan?"
The silver tom sighed. "It's not an attack, stupid," he snarled. "Honestly, WindClan should keep a better watch over its kits."
Leafkit was confused, but before she could ask any questions, a white tail swept around her.
"Lightningblaze, Sunstorm, I'm incredibly sorry," said Snowcloud. "Leafkit is a rather feisty kit, and she only wanted to protect her Clan."
Sunstorm shook his head, signalling that no apology was necessary. "It isn't a problem," he explained. "I enjoy seeing what the next generation can come up with."
"It's nice to see you, Snowcloud," said Lightningblaze, his tone surprisingly soft. "We brought these herbs for you, although I don't know how useful the ones scattered on the ground will be." He directed his last words at Leafkit, and she had to use all her determination to avoid cowering in fear.
"I'm sorry about that," Leafkit apologized. "I'll help you gather those herbs to make up for it." She pushed the herbs together with her paws, rolling them back into a bundle. Then she gripped the bundle in her mouth and began carrying towards the medicine den. Sunstorm followed, an amused purr pulsing through his body.
When she got to the medicine den, Leafkit pushed through the stored herbs and added her own bundle to Snowcloud's neatly arranged piles. "There, I brought them," she said. "Now I have to go see if Galeflight is ready."
Before Leafkit could leave the den, Harepaw walked it and began coughing. "Harepaw?" she gasped. "What's wrong?"
Harepaw managed to answer her between coughs. "That idiot Boulderpaw," he explained. "After the Gathering last night, he fell into the lake and pulled me in. I'll be okay, but I don't think either of us will be able to go with you."
Leafkit felt a tinge of sadness, but she understood. "Alright," she replied. "Hey Snowcloud, make sure that Harepaw gets better, okay?"
Snowcloud nodded. "You have my word as a medicine cat," she told Leafkit.
Leafkit grinned and headed out of the den. I can't wait to see the territory. One day I'll be Clan Leader and it will be mine to control, but until then I'll live in it as an ordinary warrior. Leafkit noticed Galeflight standing with Fieldstone and Hawkkit, so she rushed over to see them.
"Are we ready to go?" she asked.
"Not yet, but it's nearly time," explained Galeflight. "We just need to wait for Gustkit, Eaglekit, and Silverkit. I'm sure they'll get here any moment."
An exasperated sigh slipped from Fieldstone's mouth. Leafkit tried to meet the older she-cat's gaze, but a single furious glare from Fieldstone seemed to banish her courage. "Why did Ravenstar even authorize an excursion so stupid?" asked Fieldstone. "If it needs to happen, couldn't he at least wait until the situation has been resolved?"
Leafkit put her mind to work. There's another mention of this problem everyone seems so scared of. I'm not sure exactly what it is, but maybe it has something to do with Ace, the Rogue Hunter? I sure wish they'd tell me about these things, but as a kit, I probably don't rank very high on their priorities. Leafkit sighed and waited for the other kits.
"Are you scared, Fieldstone?" teased Galeflight. "You really don't need to worry. I promise to protect you, and ensure that no harm comes to you."
Fieldstone lashed her tail, sending a cloud of earth into Leafkit's eyes. Leafkit coughed as it hit her, resolving to never make Fieldstone upset if she valued her life. "Why are you so perfectly unbearable?" Fieldstone snarled at Galeflight. "You're always making these promises. Has it ever occurred to you that you might not be able to keep them all? Didn't you ever think that you should care able yourself a little more?"
Leafkit was surprised by the amount of venom in Fieldstone's voice, even though she knew how angry the she-cat was. Maybe I can ask someone why it's so dangerous out there. Sunstorm and Lightningblaze probably won't be here when I get back, but maybe I can ask Snowcloud? And if not her, Flamefur would probably know. Leafkit's thoughts and Fieldstone's ranting were interrupted by the sound of approaching pawsteps.
"Sorry if I'm interrupting anything, but Ravenstar asked me to join you on the walk with the kits," Thistlepelt explained. "I was going to go on a hunting patrol with Brambletail, but I suppose protecting the Clan's kits is important. Tigertail can go with Brambletail if he wants to, but I wish I- Sorry, I tend to talk about things that nobody cares about, don't I?"
Fieldstone shot him an emotionless glance.
Thistlepelt hastily bowed his head. "Sorry, sorry!" he stammered. "I did interrupt something important, didn't I?"
Galeflight raised his paw to block off Fieldstone. "You don't have to apologize for anything," Galeflight reassured. "You're Dovesong's brother, and that makes you family, I think. Or at least it makes you, uh, someone who doesn't have to apologize? I'm bad at this."
"Sorry, I need to stop apologizing so much," apologized Thistlepelt.
"He'll only stop apologizing if he stops talking," Hawkkit hissed to Leafkit.
Leafkit was coming up with a reply about how Hawkkit shouldn't make rude comments about their kin, but she was interrupted by the arrival of Gustkit, Silverkit, and Eaglekit.
"It looks like we're all here," remarked Galeflight. "Are you ready to see the territory?"
"Yes!" exclaimed Gustkit as he bounced up and down. "Let's go on an adventure!"
"Without Harepaw, of course," Eaglekit happily added.
Leafkit frowned. Maybe Eaglekit just needs time to get to know Harepaw? She sighed and followed Galeflight as he led the kits out of the camp.
"How did I get dragged into this?" wondered Fieldstone. "Everyone else on this trip is an idiot." Leafkit wished that Fieldstone would explain why the trip was supposedly a stupid idea, but she shrugged and ignored the angry warrior.
The first thing that caught Leafkit's attention when she stepped out onto the moor was the wind. She could feel it running through her fur, and it blew the endless expanse of grass every which way. A few leaves were scattered across the hilly terrain, brought by the wind from the forested territory of ThunderClan. Leafkit looked back at the camp, realizing that what she had assumed to be a stone circle protecting the camp had been earth. WindClan's camp lay inside an incline in the ground, one large enough to contain all of the cats who shared her blood. A rabbit scampered across the ground, but it fled before it was close enough to be hunted. The rabbit had been downwind, and with such a large party of cats, Leafkit had a hard time imagining it not catching their scent.
Silverkit nudged Leafkit. "The moor is pretty beautiful," she observed. "Doesn't being out here make you want to run until you find where the wind is trying to take you?"
Leafkit shrugged at her friend's question. "I suppose," she replied. Leafkit didn't feel like running. Instead, she wanted to study the land, finding the best places to hunt, and areas she could use to ambush invading warriors. She wanted to observe the animals of WindClan, learning their diets, habits, and how to hunt them. She would need to know everything about her Clan's territory when she was leader, and until then, the knowledge would still be very helpful. Leafkit did feel a desire to race through the hills, but she felt a much stronger desire to fight, experiencing the thrill of battle out in the moor.
"Doesn't the moor just seem to go on forever?" asked Galeflight. "I know what you kits are feeling. I've felt it too. From the moment they are kitted until the day they join StarClan's ranks, all WindClan cats have an innate urge to run, letting the wind carry away their worries. But enough about that. How about we go see the lake?"
Leafkit nodded and followed her father as he led their group towards the pool of water she had often heard about. They treaded along across the sloping hills, with Galeflight sometimes stopping to point out something interesting about the environment, Hawkkit sometimes making a snarky comment, and Fieldstone often complaining about being included on Galeflight's excursion. Soon, Leafkit could see hints of something just over a hill. I have to see the lake. With all the talk I hear, it has to be amazing. Leafkit broke away from the group, rushing ahead to cross the hill and lay eyes on the body of water the four Clans surrounded.
"Idiot, why aren't chasing after her?" Leafkit heard Fieldstone snarl to her father.
"I'll get her if you want," Thistlepelt offered
"Let her run," replied Galeflight. "The blood of a WindClan cat is a truly fearsome thing."
"I understand," said Thistlepelt. "Sorry."
Leafkit raced over the hill, and she saw the lake for the first time when she scrambled to the top. It was magnificent. The lake was much bigger than she had expected, and it was brimming with clear water, which seemed to sparkle as the sunlight reflected off it. Leafkit noticed a tom by the waterside, so she rushed down towards him.
As she closed the distance between herself and the tom, Leafkit was able to make him out more clearly. He had gray fur, with a few white patches dotted across it. "Hey, are you Ace, the Rogue Hunter?" asked Leafkit.
The tom turned to glare at Leafkit, and she could see that he had icy blue eyes, a white muzzle, and a scratched ear. "A kit?" he hissed. "Tell me kit, do I look like Ace, the Rogue Hunter to you?"
"I don't know," explained Leafkit. "That's why I'm asking you."
The tom sighed. "No, I am not Ace, the Rogue Hunter," he snapped. "I'm one of Bonetail's group. In RiverClan, I was called 'Reedfur', but you can call me 'Slash'. Last night when that coward Frost fled from our group, Bonetail named me his second-in-command. Now then, you'll be coming with me. As a hostage, you'll be useful in the current situation."
Leafkit nodded. "Slash sounds like a pretty intimidating name," she noted. "But since I'm just a kit, nobody actually told me what this 'situation' is. Would you mind explaining how you'll use me against my Clanmates?"
Slash sighed. "I just came here because it's the best spot in WindClan for fishing, and I've already found an annoying WindClan kit?" he muttered. Then Slash's eyes returned Leafkit, who was waiting expectantly. "Sure, I suppose it wouldn't hurt to explain things while I wait for my comrades," he decided. "Last night, before the Gathering started, Bonetail hid some rogues in the island's trees. When your Clans started sharing news, he raided the Gathering, and demanded that the Clans give him their medicine cats within one moon's time. Once I take you as a hostage, your Clan Leader will be more likely to give us the medicine cat. Don't worry, I won't hurt you. I have my own kits in RiverClan."
Leafkit took a few moments to process the information. Why medicine cats? What kind of evil scheme could Bonetail need herbs to complete? That is, unless his plan is to weaken the Clans by taking their medicine cats? In that case, it's my time to be a hero! Leafkit dropped into her battle crouch. "You misunderstand me, rogue!" she snarled. "I'm not just some weakling who's going to come quietly. I'm Leafkit of WindClan, and I've been waiting for the day when I would kill a vile rogue like you!"
"Oh, great," sighed Slash.
Leafkit leaped at Slash, yowling as she anticipated sinking her unsheathed claws into his flesh. Before Leafkit reached him, Slash swung his paw and hit her in the stomach, knocking her out of the air. Leafkit slammed onto the ground, pain coursing through her body. Slash swung his claws at her, but Leafkit was able to roll away and only received a few scratches. I can't win this fight. When he hit me, I could feel that he's much stronger than me, and he's also quicker than I am. If I had Hawkkit's speed, I could stand a chance, but as I am now, he completely outmatches me in terms of physical ability. Leafkit pulled herself to her paws, gritting her teeth to ignore the pain she felt. It was time to fight.
Leafkit's eyes locked onto Slash's angry gaze. Slash lazily swung his claws towards her, an expression of boredom coming over his face. Leafkit's blood rushed to her ears as she rolled out of the way of his attack. He's not even trying! If I try to run, he'll grab me. If I try to fight, he'll beat me. He's so big and powerful that he- Hey wait a moment. He's so big that I could probably fit underneath him. If I could get a shot at his belly, I might stand a chance! Slash was advancing towards Leafkit, swiping at her as he got closer. Leafkit knew what she had to do.
Leafkit raced directly towards Slash's claws, causing a look of puzzlement to enter his eyes. Leafkit got a few scratches on her ears as she pushed towards his belly, but she could ignore them as she headed for her goal. However, Slash seemed to realize what she was planning, and he knocked her away with his head.
Leafkit cursed as she was pushed away from Slash's belly. She slid onto the ground, dislodging some of the earth, which was wet from the water. I shouldn't have challenged Slash. He's superior to me in fighting ability, and he can see all of my strategies as clearly as the whiskers on my face. Maybe it's time to change tactics? Leafkit backed away from Slash, hoping to get some space to clear her head.
Slash didn't give her time to think. He swung his claws at Leafkit, trying to slice her before she could put some distance between them. Leafkit skipped backwards to avoid the blow, her paws sinking into the earth as she did. Blood dripped down Leafkit's ears, but it was from the earlier scratches she had received. She had managed to avoid Slash's latest attack completely.
Slash smirked at Leafkit. "You've put on quite a show, kit, but I can tell from trading blows with you that you don't have much fight left," he pointed out. "Give up now, come with me, and I won't have to hurt you any more."
Leafkit was panting. "Alright, you win," she agreed. "I'll come with you if you just give me a moment to catch my breath."
Slash nodded, and Leafkit took a few breaths. It was a good feeling, enjoying the cool air after a battle. There was no more need to fight, so you could have all the time you needed to savour it. But almost every other time, Leafkit had won her fights. So, I lose? I just give up now, and this is it? Leafkit padded towards Slash, who had a smug expression on his face.
As Leafkit was walking, she happened to notice the earth she had dislodged earlier in the battle, and a plan formed in Leafkit's mind. Casually, she dug her paw into the ground and pushed it upwards, sending dirt flying into Slash's eyes before he had time to react. As Slash tried to wipe away the mess, Leafkit accelerated, heading towards Slash's newly exposed belly. I can do it this time. I can actually land a blow on Slash. As Leafkit rushed forwards, she began running over how her attack would play out, forming a strategy in her mind.
Leafkit closed the gap while Slash was still struggling to clean his eyes. Sorry Slash. I bet it will be really embarrassing to have to tell the other rogues that a kit beat you on your first day as second-in-command. That is, if you manage to escape from me with your life. Blood was rushing to Leafkit's ears as she unsheathed her claws, anticipating her attack on Slash.
Suddenly, something grabbed Leafkit by her scruff and plucked her from the ground. Leafkit cursed herself as she saw white paws beneath her. She had been so focused on Slash that she hadn't been able to sense this cat coming. Leafkit swung her paws around, trying to get in a swipe at the cat who was holding her. It was enough to get the cat to drop her, and Leafkit got a good look at who had interrupted her fight. It was a white she-cat with amber eyes. The she-cat gave Leafkit a friendly grin, despite obviously being her enemy.
"Thanks for saving me, Whitefeather," said Slash as he finished wiping the mud out of his eyes.
"As long as you need saving," Whitefeather replied. Then she turned to address Leafkit. "Sorry about Slash," she cooed. "He's a bit too aggressive. Once I take you back to Bonetail, I can see about getting you some herbs for those wounds, okay?" Whitefeather had a motherly look in her eyes, unsettling Leafkit.
"Wait, you're Whitefeather?" Leafkit asked. "The she-cat who left WindClan to join Bonetail's rogues after giving Graynose his famous scars and ear notch?"
Whitefeather nodded. "The very same," she explained. "You're an observant little one."
Slash stepped up beside Whitefeather, giving her a look of admiration. "But that's not the whole story, kit," he hissed. "Whitefeather and I were deeply in love, but your Clans didn't approve of that. They couldn't see how love could form between two cats in different Clans, so they shunned us. But Bonetail is different. He understands us, and nobody in his group holds our love against us."
Leafkit nodded at Slash. "I know this is normally the time where I'd start offering my sympathy to the bad guys," she pointed out, "but you said you had kits in RiverClan, right? Doesn't that mean you were being unfaithful to your mate when you got together with Whitefeather?"
Slash seemed to grow hot with embarrassment. "H-hey, don't judge me, kit!" he stammered.
Leafkit cocked her head. "But you're a bad guy," she said. "Isn't it my job to judge you?"
"Just-just shut up!" snapped Slash. "I'm not judging you for being a-"
"Get away from her, you filthy rogues!" snarled Galeflight.
"Father!" Leafkit gasped.
Galeflight had climbed over the hill, and he was now charging at Slash and Whitefeather, pure fury in his eyes. Eaglekit was running behind Galeflight, while Thistlepelt was pushing the other kits back. "Sorry that you can't see the lake, but it's very dangerous," he explained. "There are rogues there, and Galeflight is going to save Leafkit from them." The other kits nodded, and walked away from the hill.
Leafkit sighed. Does this mean I was the only one stupid enough to think that I could take on a rogue? Thistlepelt seemed satisfied at the kits' obedience, so he headed down the hill to join Galeflight.
Fieldstone was following Galeflight as well, her perpetual frown even deeper than usual. "I told you so," she sighed. "I am never going to let you forget this, you idiot."
Galeflight managed to reach Leafkit before either of the rogues tried anything, and he threw himself in front of her. "Get back," he hissed. Leafkit nodded and ran back up the hill, with Eaglekit by her side.
Slash tried to chase after her, but Thistlepelt had reached the bottom of the hill, and he grabbed Slash's paw to stop him. Fieldstone walked over to Galeflight and Thistlepelt, shooting them a glance that implied that she would gladly team up with the rogues to hurt them.
"You!" Slash snarled at Galeflight. "You're the one who tried to attack Bonetail last night! I would gladly kill you and that bothersome scarred she-cat, but Bonetail forbids it. Instead, he has changed his terms. Bonetail says that he only wants the Medicine Cats who were appointed before he started his rebellion. You can keep the rest."
"Shut up!" replied Galeflight. "It's not like those terms are any better. WindClan and ThunderClan are still lose their Medicine Cats, while RiverClan and ShadowClan are left with Medicine Cats who are too inexperienced to truly protect their Clanmates. We will never agree to what you want!"
Fieldstone tapped Galeflight's shoulder with her tail. "You don't need to listen to them, Galeflight," she explained. "We outnumber them, so they're not in any position to make negotiations."
"Oh, am I?" asked Slash. By straining her ears, Leafkit could hear approaching pawsteps. In a matter of moments, five more rogues had joined Slash and Whitefeather. "These are Log, Siren, Ben, Sleet, and Iris," Slash introduced. "Now, would you care to partake in negotiations?"
"Galeflight, we have no choice," Fieldstone warned. "We have to-"
"Fight!" finished Galeflight as he leaped forward, grabbing onto Slash and trying to pull him to the ground. Slash and Galeflight wrestled for a bit, but Slash threw Galeflight away and sneered.
"That was actually what I was going to say," mentioned Fieldstone as she slashed at Sleet. Galeflight having similar thoughts seemed to shock her.
Leafkit watched in horror as the rogues began to beat down her Clanmates. They put up a brave fight, but they were outnumbered by the rogues, and seemed to have no chance of winning. Leafkit unsheathed her claws as Slash grabbed Galeflight and held him down.
"I have to go help them!" Leafkit told Eaglekit.
"No, you have to stay safe!" Eaglekit replied as he blocked her path.
She looked back at the fighting cats, and heard Slash snarl at Galeflight. "Give up," hissed Slash. "If we can have the kits, you can leave with your life."
Galeflight smiled up at him. "You still don't understand me," he told Slash. "As long as I can protect those precious to me, there's nothing I wouldn't sacrifice! But just you wait. I'm going to become Clan Leader and change my Clan!" Then, Galeflight's vision locked onto Leafkit and Eaglekit as he noticed that they were still standing on the hillside. "Run!" he yelled.
Leafkit nodded, rolled around Eaglekit, and charged straight at Slash. In response, Slash smirked, released Galeflight, and leaped at her. Leafkit realized that she was making things worse, and mentally berated herself as she braced herself for the impact.
It never came. Before Slash could reach her, Brambletail knocked him out of the air with blinding speed. She cuffed him in the jaw before turning to study her Clanmates. "Are we late?" she asked.
"No, you're right on time," replied Galeflight as he stood up.
Thistlepelt hung his head. "Sorry we got into trouble and needed you to rescue us," he apologized.
Brambletail blushed. "Um, d-don't worry Thistlepelt," stammered Brambletail. "You don't need to apologize to me, okay? A little excitement makes each day all the better."
"I went on this patrol to hunt prey, but I ended up hunting rogues instead," said Emberfoot as he joined Brambletail. Heatherpelt, Tigertail, and Applepaw also came to Brambletail's side. They stood attentively, waiting for the rogues to strike.
Sleet licked his lips as he surveyed the new arrivals. "You've brought fresh blood," he snarled. "This is good."
Slash rose to his paws and motioned for Sleet to stand back. He licked the blood off his jaw and turned to address his group of rogues. "We retreat for now," he barked. "We're outnumbered here, and I'm not even sure that the Clan will trade their Medicine Cat for the kits. This isn't a battle worth fighting."
Slash's rogues followed him as he left, some more reluctantly than others, and they headed in the direction of RiverClan. It serves those prey-stealers right! They can deal with the rogues for now. Some of the blood from Leafkit's scratches was beginning to form a crust around Leafkit's ear, but she pulled it off. So, I actually lost? I guess I overestimated myself. I'm not strong enough to fight the rogues yet. I need to wait until I'm an apprentice. Leafkit sighed as she licked her fur down.
"I'll carry you if you want," Brambletail offered. When Leafkit responded with a look of surprise, Brambletail added, "It looks like the rogues roughed you up pretty badly. If you were too tired to walk back to camp I would-"
"No, it's fine," Leafkit said. "I can walk back on my own." Brambletail smiled and started to pad over to Thistlepelt, but Leafkit called out to her. "Wait, Brambletail?" Leafkit asked. "In two moons, when I become an apprentice, do you think you could mentor me?"
"It's not up to me to decide," Brambletail responded. "Ravenstar chooses who he thinks is the best cat to mentor each apprentice. But if it were up to me, I'd choose to mentor a she-cat like you. Now, let's get you back home."
Leafkit nodded. If Ravenstar chooses the mentor for each apprentice, then I'll just have to ask him myself. Leafkit followed after her Clanmates, heading back home after a day more exciting than she could have possibly imagined.
…
Leafkit sighed as Snowcloud applied cobwebs to her scratches. The creamy white medicine cat had already chewed up some dock leaves and used them to soothe her wounds, and now she was using the cobweb to help them heal. Leafkit didn't understand herbs very well, but she trusted Snowcloud to make things better.
"What's the matter?" asked Snowcloud. "You don't seem very happy."
Leafkit turned her head and met Snowcloud's green eyes. "I thought I was ready to fight those rogues and defend my Clan, but I was less than useless," she admitted. "But, why aren't you afraid? Bonetail wants you and the other Medicine Cats for some sort of nefarious scheme."
Snowcloud's gaze was empathetic, and as Leafkit stared at her she noticed that Snowcloud had a small scar under her jaw. "I'm not afraid because I know that my Clan will defend me," Snowcloud told Leafkit. "The duty of Clan cats is to protect each other, growing strong together. That's what it means to have Clanmates. Likewise, you don't need to worry. You're only a kit after all. You have plenty of time to grow strong and protect what matters to you."
Leafkit nodded. "Thanks Snowcloud," she said. "I guess I just need to train harder. But Bonetail's plan still bothers me. Why does he want to take our Medicine Cats if he's already strong enough to wipe out the Clans?"
"I suppose he thinks it's some form of revenge," Snowcloud explained. "Bonetail had a mate named Fernheart, but she died of unknown causes about four moons ago, on the night of the Gathering. Love and grief are powerful things, and I think that Bonetail is angry with the Medicine Cats for being unable to save Fernheart. Even if his actions are extreme, in a way I can understand Bonetail."
Leafkit thought about Bonetail for a moment. This is what Galeflight was talking about. He may be a bad cat, but I guess he does have a reason for what he's done. Still, it's not that great of a reason. "So, I have something I want to confirm," she mentioned. "Bonetail's mate died four moons ago on the night of the Gathering, and a few days later, on the day I was born, he started his rebellion?"
Snowcloud nodded, before muttering, "Fernheart…" For a heartbeat, Leafkit could smell hints of anxiety drifting off of Snowcloud, but they were gone as quickly as they had appeared. Snowcloud gave Leafkit a motherly lick, then smiled at her. "Run along and play now," the Medicine Cat told her. "Just don't be too rough with your younger siblings."
"Thanks!" said Leafkit as she rushed outside, eager to get ready for her next meeting with hostile cats. Spotting Silverkit lying in the sunlight, Leafkit headed over to the outside of the abandoned den she had hid in earlier. "Hey Silverkit, want to do some battle training with me?" asked Leafkit. "I'm going to see Flamefur, but after that I would really like to."
Silverkit cracked an eye open. "Shouldn't you be resting so that you don't reopen your wounds?" she asked.
Leafkit shook her head. "The rogues completely outmatched me, so I'm going to train as much as I can to prepare for my next real battle," she explained.
"Oh, all right," sighed Silverkit. "How long will it take you to go see Flamefur?"
"Not very long," Leafkit replied, then raced off to the Elders' Den.
She stepped inside to see Flamefur lying down, as usual. "Flamefur, would you like to watch me train with Silverkit?" she asked.
"I very much would," Flamefur agreed. "The enthusiasm of young cats is a sight to behold. And speaking of sights, that cat Lightningblaze came by today. I still wonder if what they say about him is true. Did he really-"
The rest of Flamefur's words were lost to Leafkit as she led him out of the Elders' Den. There was training to be done, and when the next battle came, she would be ready.
To be continued…
Foreshadowing is fun when you have everything planned out to the ending. Tune in next time to meet some new RiverClan characters.
I know the point of view characters are pretty well-liked, but what do you guys think of the supporting cast? If you haven't figured it out yet, I really like Galeflight and Snowcloud. I also have a special place in my heart for Ace, the Rogue Hunter and a character named Luna, who won't be showing up for a long time.
Thanks for reading everyone. If you have the time, you could leave a review to tell me what I'm doing right and what I'm doing wrong, but I'm perfectly happy if you just read my story without commenting. See you next time!