A/N: Before anything, I just wanna say Happy New Years everybody! Starting 2019 with a chapter for you all, hope you enjoy it! Hope everybody had a wonderful Christmas (I got a new laptop, bunch of RWBY merch, and a Barnes and Noble gift card to name a few things, lol). In other news, the Winter Quarter for my college is going to be starting soon, so that should be fun. I'm so excited, as much as I love going on breaks and stuff, I need to constantly be doing something productive (yeah, I could write, but it eventually becomes more draining than fun). Five chapters away from 50… damn, this is definitely going to be the longest story I've ever written lol.

Thanks to hannah111190 for following and adding this story as a favorite!

Reviews

Nightsky of FlameClan- Yep, every chapters are opposites, or things that you can compare/contrast to one another. I did this specifically to show the two opposites that are Soot and Flare, and how they each go through their own struggles no matter what rank they are. And, of course, how the perspective of each switches between the two chapters.

Mad Hat Dragon- I so sowwy! Yeah… removing Spike's eyes was a last minute thing. I was originally going to have him either completely killed, or taken as prisoner. But, seeing as Ignis and his rascals still need to go to Blazeclan, I had to cut out that prisoner part. And… to be honest, I didn't have the heart to kill Spike (yet). Oh no, Ignis and the others are still going to be relevant (at least Ignis is). They still have Blazeclan next so… XD. Unfortunately can't have fluff every single chapter, considering all the fluff-heavy content recently lol. Enjoy it whenever I write it, cause it won't last forever people. No offense taken! The "real" goal of the rogues has not been revealed yet, all that's been said is that they're targeting the clans and are going to be starting the "next phase" soon. Thank you! Rainpaw: "I… really really care about her. Don't tell her I said that, I wanna be the one to do it!" Does that answer it? And hmm… Ignis and Berry? I could see it tbh XD. Merry Christmas~

the Key of Endless Winters- Three cheers for you! Yeah… poor Thornpaw. King: "That is none of your concern." (You'll find out later~) Flamepaw: (No answer) Wildfire: "What's wrong with me? How dare you imply that something is wrong with me!?" Ignis: "I do know… that I really want to hurt you for saying that." Cherrypaw: "You must be confused, dear~ What rogues?" Hope you enjoy the chapter (sorry if that was confusing lol).

Feathershade (Guest)- Yeah Flare, damnit Flare. You were supposed to protect everybody! (She's just one cat lol, she can't be in multiple places at once). She'll try harder, don't worry

bluesilver (Guest)- Wolfstorm got his cruelty from his own experiences with parental abuse… it sort of runs in Wildfire's family. That… will be revealed in his backstory, I'm actually looking forward to writing that scene now. From his view, Wildfire values perfection and strength more so than empathy and anything else. If Flarepaw had followed his rules more carefully (which appears impossible, cause it kind of is) or even had beaten him in a battle, he probably would've stopped. Or if Willowflame found out and beat him up, then he definitely would've stopped. Wildfire values Flamepaw above everybody else, he hates Sagepaw. For Wildfire, picking favorites definitely had to do with gender (since he doesn't believe she-cat's deserve the more honorable titles). As for Wolfstorm… it had to do with who was born first (Wildfire was second, Swiftpaw was first). Interesting theory, but no; Flarepaw and Sootpaw are definitely not related in any way. Well… I haven't shown Sootpaw's parents yet (spoiler spoiler, keeping my mouth shut lol). So just… wait and see I guess haha. I… don't know anything about cats to be completely honest. I know the basics, like basic patterns and eye colors and such, but breeds and everything else, yeah no. I've always pictured Flarepaw like a very light amber- sort of creamish color more so than anything else, but that's just me. I had originally planned for her to have amber eyes as well, but ultimately scrapped that idea (I like the idea of her having silver eyes better). Sootpaw was- originally- going to be a black tom with a white speckling down his back and golden eyes (Fun Fact: Sootpaw's warrior name, if I had gone with his original design, would have been Sootfall. Now, it's completely different, but I still like it). You guys can imagine them in anyway you want to help you visualize the story, I just set the actual appearances as more like a guideline and stuff.

The Unnamed Guest- Merry Christmas! I guess Sootpaw's reckless behavior is rubbing off on her? Yes, very scary Flarekitty. Fear doesn't always keep people/cats silent for long, no. In Flare's case, it was more like a she didn't want to be a bother type of thing more so than a fearful thing to stay silent about Wild's abuse. Take what Flarepaw felt- the good part at least- in those moments and multiply it by like 10, that's how good it felt for Wildfire. You shall see the first time he ever abused her in his backstory- that will come sometime in the future lol. Wolfstorm was originally worse in the fact that he didn't really care where he scarred Wildfire, but I feel like Wildfire was definitely a bit more restrained than Wolfstorm was. Whiteshadow was referring to his own experiences with violence, he doesn't know about Wildfire's past (just vague details given by Willow). White would be an excellent father… but the only she-cat he would want to have kits with would be Leafstar so… guess he can never be one. I want everybody to keep Flarepaw's realization about abusing others in their heads for the times to come lol. When I first came up with the idea to have their eyes be described as something in the physical world, I had no idea what to do for Flare. Soot was easy, his eyes are the color of the sunset (and Flare loves sunsets). But with Flare, I needed to think a bit more; the "storm" part of it came from how Soot always used to view them, as well as her- dangerous, powerful, unforgiving. The "moon" portion came up later, after they came closer together, to show the 'other side' of Flarepaw- calm, mysterious, and beautiful. Idk, I just always though they were pretty (*clears throat* this also means that there will be 'another side' to Soot's eyes that will be revealed later). Yeah… yeah the end of the chapter was unexpected, but I hope not in a strangely abrupt/rushed kind of way. I'm mad at Berry too, but hey, what could you do now? She felt like she needed to prove herself after the fox incident. Ignis is a more twisted version of Windpaw lol. You shall find out… when the time comes. Well, Gingerpaw and Thornpaw fight in two very different ways, considering they are also from two different clans who specialize in different tactics. I believe it would be a lot harder for a Forestclan cat to learn how to fight blind. Yup, Ignis and his group of rascals are heading to Blazeclan next. You shall wait and see after this Forestclan mini-arc lol. Wildfire: "I'm doing what's best for my ungrateful excuse of a daughter. She should be thanking me." Ignis: "Wouldn't you like to know~ I knew I was popular. And also, an eye for an eye, it was his fault." King: "...I have no reason to answer to you. Begone." Phantom: "Whiteshadow? I've never heard this name before. Is it someone I know?" Redstar: "I do not wish to share my story yet, please understand… as for my relation with Sootpaw, I cannot say." Cloudstar: "No. And that is none of your concern, it is business with my clan alone." Leafstar: "Aren't you sweet~ You're my favorite too." Whiteshadow: "Of course I'm your favorite, everybody loves me… thank you for saying that though. And yes, I do have nightmares." And Zero's fighting style for him was very… aggressive, let's just say. Every strike's sole purpose was to kill right away. Cherrypaw: "What do you mean? What did I cause? I have no idea what you're insinuating~" Bramblepaw: "It is my dream, but if I have to give it to anybody, it would be Cherrypaw. She's… very pretty. Don't tell her I said that." Willowflame: "I'm ashamed at myself for not noticing… and if I was still there, I might just have to give Wildfire a piece of my claws." Wild-worshippers: "Wildfire is the strongest! How dare you not see that?" Thornpaw: "..." Thornblaze: "I'm excited! But nervous… what if I don't raise them right?" Yellowpaw: "Tch, that Commoner would be blessed to have my respect… but I guess he's not the worst cat there is." Rowanpaw: "I-I'm not scared! How dare you? And it only makes sense, Sootpaw is a Commoner. Why wouldn't I hate him?" His treatment by Wild is definitely not as bad as Flarepaw's. Turbo: "Who is King? I learned to fight from my parents… wherever they are." That was fun lol. Nope, this chapter is called Shame. My winter break was fun I guess, I spent most of it sore from my workouts with my cousin. Can't wait to start the next quarter. Enjoy!

Fawnfur000DETHKA- Thank you! It does get a bit challenging when you have more than one idea in mind- I know I'm terrible with that cause all I do is start both anyways (PS: Definitely don't do two stories at a time unless you have the time and energy, cause writing one story is mentally exhausting enough as it is.) When it comes to writer's block, I'm not exactly the best source of advice lol. All I do is wait for it to go by, or push through it. Problem with pushing through is that you tend to be more critical about yourself and/or you simply have mediocre chapters. If I get the time, I'll make sure to check out your story. If you're looking for writing long stories, it is best to keep both your audience interested for the long run, as well as make sure to constantly have the story progress. For example, if your story is an adventure/traveling type of story, then don't have your characters stay in one place doing absolutely nothing for long. Or, even if the heroes aren't doing much in terms of progress (like my story right now) have the villains working behind-the-scenes/on-the-side. It is very helpful to have an outline as well, even if it's just one event that happens that chapter. Hope this helps, and I'm happy to share any more advice I can think about.

Sharpbreeze- Hiya Sharp, long time no see lol. Oof, definitely don't let Fanfiction get in the way of life duties. Of course I remember you, how could I forget? Oh WOW, page 3? I haven't checked lol. I'm surprised tbh, but thanks you guys. Ah… Windpaw's parents, I haven't introduced them have I? (Looks like something for the next Stormclan mini-arc… whenever that is XD). To answer that question in their place, it's both; they don't like same-gender couples, and also because Windpaw and Rainpaw are (or… were actually, Rain is no longer a GR apprentice) both running for Grand Royal. Emberpaw: "Eh… Flarepaw and my brother both deserve it. If the Grand Royal believes they are the better choice, then who am I to disagree?" Yeah, Ignis and his rascals are pretty strong, as are the other City Dwellers (let's call them that for now). I mean… she was technically doing a good job, she just ran out of steam lol. And also, she wasn't killing them- Berrypaw had many opportunities to do so, but of course, the Warrior Code forbids it. Glad to have you back again Sharp!

Thanks to everybody who reviewed, followed, and/or added this story as a favorite!

Let's get started!

Forestclan

Pain…

Blood…

Regret…

The burning ginger pelt of her attacker… his sickeningly sweet and viciously mischievous smirk… his bright green eyes that were a stark contrast to Spike's dark green ones- eyes that he would never see out of because of her…

The first thing the blue furred apprentice registered upon waking up wasn't the pain, but the revolting and stomach-churning feeling of regret and shame. The overwhelming guilt made it difficult to swallow, and the parchness of her throat certainly didn't help matters either. Berrypaw took in a deep, shaky breath as her dark green gaze filtered around the familiar moss-covered walls of the Medicine Den. She wasn't a stranger to this place- the fox incident made sure of it. Her body ached in all the wrong places, bringing upon waves of agony that forced her to remain as motionless as possible.

Spike…

Worry for her friend seemed to be her only motivator… besides the fact that it was followed closely behind by guilt. After all, she was the reason he was so injured in the first place. If only I had ran directly back to camp when I first smelled them… none of this would've happened. The Grand Royal apprentice allowed herself a few moments of rest before attempting to sit up, her paws moving mechanically underneath her as she, somehow, found the strength to push against the nest. Berrypaw's teeth clenched together as she breathed through the pain, each cobweb-covered scar on her body making its presence known with the subtlest shift of her muscles. This pain is nothing to Spike losing his eyes because of me. This was only a fraction of what he probably went through.

"Oh!" A surprised voice gasped out from somewhere ahead of her. "You're awake, wonderful."

A dark brown paw was placed in her line of sight, and within seconds, it was suddenly easier to sit up with the help of Blossomleaf- the Medicine Cat. Berrypaw blew out a tired sigh as she glanced up gratefully at the grey furred she-cat with light green eyes that were always so amiable. If she weren't so tired from that simple action, the Grand Royal apprentice would've sent the young healer a smile.

"You've been resting for two days now… you lost quite a bit of blood when Cherrypaw brought you back, I was beginning to get worried."

"Cherry...paw?" The blue furred apprentice frowned in confusion, brows pinching together. "She was there?"

"Not sure; as much as I am aware, she was out hunting when she found you passed out from your injuries and Royal Thornpaw trying to carry you back." Blossomleaf went to work while she spoke, a careful eye wandering over each of Berrypaw's covered wounds as she placed a dripping ball of moss at the base of the nest. With a gentle nod, the Medicine Cat urged the Grand Royal apprentice to drink something, even if it was only the smallest of water droplets. "After she brought you two back here safely, she took a patrol and set out to find whoever did this, but they couldn't find anything."

So… Cherrypaw is the hero again after all. Berrypaw had to swallow down the bile in her throat along with the water. Once more, I was saved by someone else.

"And what has the Grand Royal done about this?

"Leafstar has been sending out more and more patrols to scout the area, without any progress though. That's all we can really do for now without any leads."

Any leads… She suddenly remembered the warning Ignis had given her before disappearing… leaving her alive, if only barely. The Medicine Cat was quick to notice the shift in her expression. Taking a step back, Blossomleaf blinked at her before tilting her head with a gentle angle.

"From what I can tell, Grand Royal Berrypaw, for you to come out of this alive was intentional. Before I make my own assumptions, I wish to know what happened exactly." A frown crossed the friendly she-cat's face. "Even with your previous injuries, there was no reason for you to lose against anyone in your own home."

"There were seven of them, Blossomleaf. I… I was doing just fine, but I underestimated them and overestimated my own prowess. The only reason I'm alive is because the rogues had a message for us." Berrypaw's gaze shifted down to her nest, ears drooping as she shrugged as nonchalantly as she could. "You're right; in our home, there was no reason for me to lose against anyone, regardless of number."

A sigh sounded from the Medicine Cat before Blossomleaf licked the top of the she-cat's head, coaxing her to raise it and greeting her with a gentle, if sad, smile. As usual, her cordial green gaze had a calming effect on anyone who looked at it. Berrypaw was no different.

"I don't mean to make you feel shame. Even if I do not step onto the battlefield, I do know how strenuous it is to face on multiple opponents in any situation. I'm just glad you are lucky enough to still be alive." Another sigh escaped her lips, her expression shifting to thoughtful glimmer instead. "Our High Ranking warriors may not see it that way, however. They will hold no pity for you simply because you lost in your homeland. As Grand Royal apprentice, I'm sure you above all others know just how prideful our warriors carry themselves."

Berrypaw nodded in understanding, knowing full well just what the Medicine Cat was implying. Warriors of Forestclan were prideful, much like every other High Rank, of their home. Losing a battle on their territory was seen as disgraceful, the greatest form of shame someone could bring back to the clan. By any and all means, a Forestclan warrior was destined to always win a battle on their own turf.

And now, Berrypaw was the only one of her generation to lose not one, but two battles. She was still receiving negativity from losing against the fox so long ago, and now…

"You mentioned a message?" Blossomleaf pulled her back to reality and from the depths of her own thoughts, just when she was beginning to drown in them. The Medicine Cat was busying herself by gently peeling the old cobwebs off of the blue furred apprentice to replace them with fresh ones. "Should I call for the Grand Royal?"

"Oh, right. Sure." Berrypaw nodded with a frown, her dark green gaze traveling to the entrance of her personal den in here. Spike must be here still… I have to find him.

"I will get her then, you just rest for now, alright?"

"Okay…" Her voice was small as she looked back down to her paws, guilt and remorse threatening to swallow her whole. As the sound of Blossomleaf's footfalls began to retreat, Berrypaw was content with being submerged by her emotions.

"Grand Royal Berrypaw? Do you… Do you wish to hear about Thornpaw's condition?"

It was almost amusing how quickly the she-cat looked upwards, head whipping back as she found Blossomleaf hovering by the exitway. The Medicine Cat held a gentle expression, a tinge of nervousness in it as well. Nobody aside from mentors, family, and the Grand Royal were allowed to know about the condition of a High Rank in the Medicine Den. For her to offer this to Berrypaw…

"If… If it's not too much trouble." Even as she said it, Berrypaw knew it would be bring nothing but that if the other High Ranks found out. The only reason no actual harm would come to Blossomleaf was because she was the only Medicine Cat of Forestclan. She was safe, only because of her title.

"None at all." A lie. "He's been… trying to adjust to his… situation. It isn't easy for him."

"So… that means…" Berrypaw knew it was true, that Spike was completely blind, but a side of her- the side that fought against her guilt- wanted to believe there was a chance to save him. She wished beyond the stars that Blossomleaf would deny the truth.

"Unfortunately," but she wasn't going to- kind as she was, Blossomleaf never lied for the sake of lying, "Thornpaw is blind in both eyes now. There is nothing I could do to help heal them, all I could do is help him with the pain. We can only hope that maybe his vision could return after some rest."

The light green gaze of the Medicine Cat dropped down to her paws, in the way they always did when she knew there was nothing she could do to save someone. "But with the way it's looking, I'm not so optimistic."

I knew it… I knew this was what was going to happen, but… it doesn't hurt any less after hearing it.

"Is… Is he awake?" Berrypaw mumbled out the words, the shadow of guilt overtaking her figure against the natural brightness of the den. Blossomleaf cleared her throat as she looked back up, glancing behind her shoulder for only the briefest of moments.

"He is," it was a shame Blossomleaf was still frowning, she was always seen with a warm smile instead. "Although, I'm not sure if he is open to having visitors right now. I can check if you'd like?"

"N-No, it's fine." Another lie, this time by the Grand Royal apprentice. "I just… I just wanted to know how he's doing. Thank you, Blossomleaf. My apologies for the trouble."

With a bow of her head, the Medicine Cat turned away from the apprentice.

"I will bring the Grand Royal shortly to discuss this message you wished to share. I will return shortly." With those parting words, the friendly she-cat disappeared from Berrypaw's view.

Coupled with her exhaustion, the blue furred apprentice felt like collapsing back into her nest. Behind lidded eyes, she could still see the wicked grin across Ignis's face, the darkness made it all too easy to remember Thornpaw's screams of agony. All she wanted to do was force her body to move out there, wherever he was, and apologize until she couldn't speak anymore. Without his vision, the High Ranking mentors would refuse to train a cripple. Everyone would view the once prodigal Royal apprentice as nothing but a disgrace. Because, by all intents and purposes, he, too, lost the fight. Just like she did.

Just like me…

I'm a disgrace to the Forestclan name…

In her few moments of silence and solitude, nothing stopped the shame from eating away at Berrypaw's mind. And she made no effort of fighting against it.

A disgrace is what I am… maybe it's what I've always been.

"And… that's all I remember him saying to me." Berrypaw took in a deep breath after her quick explanation, speaking as swiftly as possible to escape from the horrid contents of her memories. If it were up to her, she would rather forget everything that happened. But I can never forget… because there will be a constant reminder everytime I look at Spike.

"It seems no matter how much time has passed, rogues still pose a problem to us." A sigh escaped the lips of the Grand Royal, who was sitting just outside of Berrypaw's nest. The white striped tabby with light brown and grey fur always appeared professional when in the presence of her clan- at least the High Ranks. Now, however, Leafstar sat with an air of comfort and relaxation. Her back had a slight slouch to it, tail twitching against her paws. Still, her expression was as alert and attentive as it always was, light green eyes burning in thought and glimmering with a sense of calculation. It wasn't difficult to tell when Leafstar was planning something, she always had the same look. But Berrypaw was confused by her words.

"Grand Royal?"

"I can only assume they're from the same group as before," Leafstar sighed with a shake of her head, "and here I thought we were done with them."

"You mean, you've dealt with them before?" To say Berrypaw was intrigued would be an understatement, not much was shared about the previous running for Grand Royal.

"Not the exact same ones; but I believe the ones you faced are from the original group as before. From what I can see, they've definitely grown in numbers." The Grand Royal eyed Berrypaw's covered scars with a sense of melancholy. A second later, just a second, the apprentice could've sworn she saw a damn near murderous glimmer in those light green eyes. "It's a shame I wasn't there."

It was no secret just how protective Leafstar was of every member of her clan, she went above and beyond to make sure everybody was safe from harm. But, there was only so much one cat could do. Whenever her warriors, or anybody in her clan for that matter, was injured, Leafstar carried the blame upon her shoulders so nobody else would.

"What do we do now, Grand Royal?" Blossomleaf spoke up, eyes clouded as she was apparently deep in thought. "From what I can tell, it's only a matter of time before something like this happens again."

"Now, all we could do is increase our patrols and training, to make everybody prepared so this doesn't happen again. I will personally foresee the training of all our apprentices, can't have anyone slacking off now." The Grand Royal of Forestclan stood up with an almost excited bounce in her step, giving a thankful nod to Berrypaw before turning around to leave. "I want you to focus on recovery, Grand Royal Berrypaw. It'll help no one if you try to rush it. After Blossomleaf clears you, you will resume with your training."

"Y-You mean, I'm still a Grand Royal apprentice?" Berrypaw blurted out before she could stop herself, and it was followed by a failed attempt at subtly clearing her throat that left her in a coughing fit.

Leafstar paused halfway out of the den, glancing behind her shoulder at the apprentice with a confused glimmer in her eyes. Berrypaw could only stare back at her, ears burning in embarrassment towards herself. Thankfully, the Grand Royal only chuckled at her slip-up.

"You are a Grand Royal apprentice until I say otherwise," the light brown and grey she-cat winked almost playfully, "and I haven't said otherwise."

Berrypaw couldn't help but chuckle at the mischievous, matter-of-fact tone of Leafstar. Even Blossomleaf allowed an amused smile on her face, despite the impending severity of their situation. For a few seconds, the only emotions allowed in the den were happy ones.

But then, Leafstar turned back around, and the moment was over. Blossomleaf was the first to recover.

"What will you do, Leafstar?" Once more, the Grand Royal paused in her journey to the exit, head tilted back as she pondered the question presented to her. A gentle hum sounded from her chest as she shrugged nonchalantly.

"I think it's time I pay my friend across the border a visit. It's long overdue now."

"You mean… You're going to one of the other clans… alone?"

"Yes, Blazeclan specifically, and yes, alone." The Grand Royal rolled her shoulders, as if preparing for a sprint directly to the other clan in this moment. "It wouldn't do me any good if I bring a patrol with me, anybody would freak out if they saw an opposing clan member, much less the leader, entering their land without warning. It's safer if I go by myself."

"Will you be alright?" Blossomleaf couldn't help but worry; Berrypaw, too, began feeling concern for her leader. And, though she wouldn't admit it, even a bit of jealousy. If only I can go to another clan whenever I wanted, I could speak with my little spitfire whenever I wished.

"I assure you, I'll be fine. As long as there is a forest, I will be protected." The Grand Royal remained quiet for a heartbeat before chuckling. "And, have you forgotten? Their land used to be ours. I know my way around."

"Will you be leaving immediately?"

The rest of the conversation was lost to Berrypaw's ears as Leafstar and Blossomleaf, leader and Medicine Cat, left the den behind. The silence was deafening, and she shuffled her paws against the nest just to make even the simplest of noise to keep her busy.

I'm still a Grand Royal apprentice. She thought for sure she would be demoted for dishonoring the Forestclan name… again. It was a surprise, though she still didn't know if it was a pleasant one.

Spike is alive… crippled, but alive. She still felt the lingering traces of guilt and shame shrouding over her, threatening to take her down any second now.

The rogues will be back someday.

Berrypaw, underneath the shame of her defeat and the guilt of letting Thornpaw get hurt, could feel the beginning of a burning flame of vengeance kindling within her chest. It was urging for her to prepare, to get out of this den already and resume her training. It reminded her of the drive she used to have when it came to remaining in the running for Grand Royal. It was comforting, in a strange way.

Let them come back…

I'll show them all…

These thoughts; it was all Berrypaw could do to avoid being drowned by the shame she felt.

Blazeclan

The one thing Sootpaw hated the most about being injured was his incapability to train with the others. The long gashes spreading across his back was slowly healing, the skin stitching together in a thin layer that threatened to re-open with even the smallest of his movements.

Adding to his shame, it wasn't hard to know what exactly Flarepaw did to the two that attacked him. It was awkward, to say the least, sitting in the same area as them in the Medicine Cat's Den. Instead of glaring at him, however, Blazefang and Redflame looked at everything but him. Whatever message the Grand Royal apprentice was sending to them, they heard it loud and clear. Sootpaw almost felt pity seeing similar claw marks on their backs. Two days had passed since the incident with the warriors, and Wildfire was very quiet indeed. It was unnerving, to say the least… because it meant the Royal was plotting something terrible.

"Head in the clouds again, Sootpaw?"

A sigh escaped his lips as his vision refocused on the leader of his patrol, Whiteshadow. This was another thing the Commoner noticed upon being allowed back into the training grounds- the lead Royal appeared to be hovering over him all the time. He knew this was Flarepaw's doing, and a part of him was flattered that she would go out of her way just for him.

The cynical side of him, however, taunted him for needing the help of a High Rank. It told him that she was only doing this out of pity, not because she cared about him like she claimed.

It was all so confusing to him.

"Sorry, Whiteshadow."

"It's alright," the white furred tom cleared his throat, shaking out his pelt with a skip in his step, "nothing exciting ever happens when I lead a patrol. Such a bummer."

The rest of the makeshift patrol- made up of Sagepaw, Yellowpaw, and a scarred Rowanpaw- followed close behind the two as Sootpaw walked near the front with Whiteshadow at his side. His nerves were continuously grated the longer Rowanpaw walked at his back, his instincts had always warned him against doing just that. It was shameful to admit that not having sight of the brutish tom that always seemed out to get him terrified the Commoner.

A swift glance behind his shoulder to the Royal apprentice was met with a smoldering glare. If looks could kill, Sootpaw knew he would be torn limb from limb by the expression on Rowanpaw's face. The scarring along his face, a majority of it still covered with a thin layer of cobwebs, only increased this intimidation- Sootpaw was ashamed to say that it was working too well.

When the patrol came to a sudden halt, the Commoner was spared from the damn near murderous glare sent in his direction as everyone looked towards their leader. Whiteshadow had freezed so suddenly, it was almost as if time itself stopped for him. Sootpaw turned to face him, eyes scrunching in confusion.

"What is it, lead Royal?" Yellowpaw, ever the impatient one, was the first to voice the question on everyone's mind. The other three stood in a line on either side of the Artisan apprentice, with Rowanpaw just a step ahead of the others. Sootpaw chose to remain by Whiteshadow's side, and so, he was the only one to see a hidden smile pull at the corners of the tom's lips.

"On second thought," the lead Royal breathed out a chuckle, head tilting back and light blue eyes appearing pale in the morning sun, "I stand corrected. Sometimes exciting stuff happens when I lead."

This only served to further increase the apprentices' confusion as they glanced at each other. Sootpaw blinked a few times before taking in a deep breath, mouth parted to taste the air. Perhaps Whiteshadow noticed something they didn't? The Commoner swore he was on to something, but not before the lead Royal spoke again.

"Still following me through the trees I see, doesn't that get old?"

For a heartbeat, nobody made a sound. For that amount of time, they were all convinced Whiteshadow was crazy.

But then the branches behind them shifted and croaked underneath the weight of another figure, and all of the apprentices were left speechless when someone appeared. By the look on Rowanpaw's and Sagepaw's face, it must've been someone important, but to Sootpaw, all he could see was a pretty she-cat. The spark of recognition and even the tiniest bit of fondness in Whiteshadow's near-pale eyes was hard to miss if one didn't look close enough.

"Even after all this time, you still can't seem to locate me when I'm up here. Such a shame."

"I'd be surprised if even your own clan could find you when you're up there."

A second passed before the figure dropped from the trees, landing oh-so elegantly a few steps away from the white furred tom. How she made it to their front so quietly and so quickly through the leafless trees, the Commoner would never understand. Sootpaw stared at the she-cat in curiosity, held tilting to the side as he examined her. When compared to Whiteshadow, the she-cat was only a bit shorter than him. Her pelt was a combination of light brown and light grey, marred only with her white tabby stripes. The light green of her eyes glimmered with a playful youth that would shine no matter how much time had passed.

"What brings you here, Grand Royal Leafstar?" Whiteshadow spoke in a formal tone, but to Sootpaw, it almost appeared as if there was a hint of teasing hidden carefully within his words. The she-cat was quick to pick up on it, eyes brightening as a smile threatened to pull at her lips. A careful glance at the apprentices, however, ruined the building image of happiness as a professional mask appeared on her face. The grey furred tom would've been paying attention to this, if he wasn't internally freaking out over seeing the last remaining Grand Royal of the three clans. Seeing as he was a Low Rank, he was never permitted on going to the Gatherings- he only ever heard stories of the other clans, as well as the leaders.

"I need to speak personally with Redstar," a teasing spark appeared in her light green eyes, "will you be so kind as to escort me there?"

"And lead an enemy clan leader straight to our camp?" Rowanpaw's throaty growl sounded from behind Sootpaw, causing the Commoner to flinch and whip around- bringing about a fresh wave of pain from the sudden strain on his body. The scarred tom took a few more steps forward until he was somewhere between the other three and beside Whiteshadow. "That's insane."

A heavy silence followed the Royal's snarl, but if Leafstar was offended by his outburst, it certainly didn't show on her face. Instead of narrowed eyes and a scowl, the she-cat stared back at the tom evenly with a mollifying smile. Though visible to all, there was a hidden sense of danger in her light green eyes behind the open friendliness.

Whiteshadow, on the other hand, was the very definition of danger as he turned to face the apprentice. Sootpaw felt a shiver run down his spine at the menacing glare given off by the lead Royal. The Commoner wasn't ashamed to admit that he took a step back to avoid the suddenly deadly tom.

"You are speaking with a superior, it would be in your best interest to treat her with respect. No matter what clan she leads, she is still a Grand Royal… and you will treat her as such. Do I make myself clear, Rowanpaw?"

The Royal apprentice stared at the incarnation of danger for a few seconds longer before shakily nodding his head, glancing down to his paws in shame. With a mumbled response, the tom fell back in-line with the others and chose to avoid looking directly at Whiteshadow anymore. Sootpaw felt a hidden sense of satisfaction watching Rowanpaw cower down, even if it wasn't because of him.

"Come now, don't be so harsh to the young one," Leafstar spoke up in a light tone. "It seems to me he is still learning after all."

"L-Learning… what?" Yellowpaw stuttered out, glancing nervously at Rowanpaw before looking at Whiteshadow. The Forestclan Grand Royal chuckled, glancing at the lead Royal of Blazeclan before looking back at the Artisan.

"Why exactly it is in our best interest to be on good terms with the strongest Grand Royal of our generation," Whiteshadow chuckled, glancing briefly at the she-cat who joined his side.

"Really!" Sootpaw couldn't help but blurt out in excitement, bouncing up to the Grand Royal. "Are you really the strongest?"

"I wish I was exaggerating," the Commoner heard Whiteshadow grumble underneath his breath, rolling his shoulders as if to dispel an aching muscle before shaking out his pelt again. The breeze that blew by them sent shivers down everyone's spine, and Leafstar lifted her head to better listen to the rustling of the bare branches. A fond smile was on her face at the familiar noise.

"We'll cut our patrol short for now and finish later," Whiteshadow spoke in a louder voice, sending the she-cat at his side a smile as he bowed his head. "Though, I doubt you need an escort here. This was your home after all."

"And it belongs to you now," Leafstar said matter-of-factly, nodding her head for the tom to move first, "which is why you should lead me."

As the patrol began walking back the way they came, Sootpaw couldn't help but let his excitement get the better of him as he began asking a multitude of questions. He wanted to know everything about the Forestclan Grand Royal… but not for malicious reasons. The clan would be ashamed of him to know he only did it because he was genuinely curious.

His drive to want to learn everything and anything about the other clans put everyone else's desire to overpower them to shame.

And this drive was something the tom was truly proud of in himself.

It was amusing how quickly the members in camp became silent upon seeing the patrol walk-in with the Grand Royal of Forestclan. Sootpaw could've sworn he saw multiple jaws drop when they saw her face, and instantly, everybody was standing up in alert. Multiple, cautious glares were sent her way, but if she was bothered by them, it certainly didn't show. The Commoner found it admirable how surely she held herself in a camp full of enemy warriors.

"Whiteshadow, what is the meaning of this?" Wildfire… of course. "Leading an enemy leader straight to our camp, have you gone mad?"

"Sorry to say that the only one going mad around here is you, Wildfire."

Sootpaw felt his lips pull into a smirk at Whiteshadow's words, watching with the sunset glimmering in awe. If anybody could stand up to Wildfire, it was the lead Royal himself. The Commoner almost wished he could be the white furred tom.

"Now you're defending her as well?" The Royal snapped, lips curling in a scowl. "I bet-"

"That's enough, Wildfire."

All eyes turned instantly to the reverberating voice of Redstar as he stood at the entrance of his den, the cavern-like entrance blocked by his red furred body. The High Ranks of Blazeclan immediately bowed their heads, stepping aside to provide a pathway for the leader. Wildfire stood in his place defiantly before rolling his eyes, moving away from the middle of the path and disappearing within the crowd of warriors.

Sootpaw could only stare at everything going on, eyes flicking from one side to the other. Leafstar held a gentle smile on her face as she sent an almost playful wink to the apprentices of the patrol before walking with Whiteshadow to the leader. Even now, as she was inevitably surrounded by Blazeclan warriors, there was not an ounce of hesitance in her step. Her stride was true, powerful and displaying an authority she was born with.

He couldn't help but be reminded of Flarepaw as he watched the opposing leader meet with his own.

In an instant, the crowd of warriors closed off, blocking off her exit in a way that was noticeable to all who bothered to look. They also blocked off Sootpaw's view of the leader, but he was content with what he learned.

Leafstar sported little to no wounds, because with her fighting style- "It's a secret," she had winked at him before telling him anyways- she utilized her surroundings. On their walk back, Whiteshadow had added in comments every now and then, and even if he happened to cut her off, the Grand Royal was content with simply listening to him. It was clear to the Commoner they had some sort of friendship together, but he was unsure as to how far it exactly went.

One thing Whiteshadow had told the Commoner; Leafstar's ability to plan in the middle of battle put everybody else to shame. Nobody could match to her quick-thinking and calculating mind. She could come up with a plan to win any battle, even the ones that seemed hopeless, as long as she was given the time and the resources to do so. She was a true tactician at heart, and this is what made her so formidable.

Sootpaw wasn't ashamed to say he wished to be like her one day.

"Will you be going back to the Medicine Den?" Sagepaw's voice dragged him out of his thoughts, the Noble standing a few pawsteps away and body angled to head to the fresh-kill pile in the distance. His distinctive green eyes watched almost nervously as Sootpaw stood in place, seemingly prepared to leap and catch him if the tom stumbled. Maybe Flarepaw asked him to watch over me too…

"I…" He trailed off when he saw the familiar shaded amber pelt and silver-blue eyes that belonged only to Flarepaw appear from the crowd. She paused only for a second, carefully glancing around before her eyes landed on him- and he was subjected to the beauty of the silver moon only she possessed. Sagepaw followed his gaze before nodding in understanding, saying a quiet farewell to the Commoner before walking away.

As the she-cat began to approach him, the tom couldn't help but feel conflicted. He hadn't spoken about how her defending him made him feel, but with the way he was seemingly closing off from her, he was making it very clear. Sootpaw hadn't been avoiding her, but their conversations definitely became tensed. It didn't help that she seemed almost guilty every time she looked at the wounds on his back. The tom felt shame for almost giving into the action of walking away as she approached, but no, he held his ground instead. She brushed past him, their pelts barely touching, and her voice was a whisper against his ear as she walked by.

"I need to speak with you."

He was expecting that, and all he could do was nod as she continued walking, acting as though she never said anything as she walked out of camp. Ever the actress she was. The Commoner remained standing in place for a few seconds longer, the sunset of his eyes dulled in the morning light as he glanced in the direction of the cavern-like den of Redstar.

He was ashamed to admit he almost chose to ignore Flarepaw.

Keep your promise, damn it…

It's all you're good for now anyways…

Because without her, you're nothing…

Sootpaw had no argument against his own thoughts.

I even lose the battle in my own head… wonderful...

A/N: Sorry if this chapter is a bit fillery, I really needed a set-up for the events to come. Hope you enjoyed anyways! Anyways, I start school again, so here's hoping my schedule doesn't get ruined by it.

Question of the Day

What would be your best trait as a warrior? (Like how Leafstar's is quick-thinking, Flarepaw's is evasion, Gingerpaw's is defense, etc.)

Please review, favorite, and/or follow!

Let me know what you think of this story and please give constructive criticism to where you see fit.

If you have time: please check out my other story: Renegades.

Also, if you have fanart of any kind, check my profile for more details!

Thank you and peace out!

~Wolfcreations18