PROLOGUE
The sunbeams falling between the trees were careless to the cats resting in its light. Basking in the glow, the cats savored the last tastes of the warm season.
"Duskmane, do you need anything?" the gray-and-orange apprentice tom asked the elder. She sleepily turned her dark head toward him.
"Perhaps to be left alone to enjoy my nap?" she grumbled.
"Of course" he said, dashing off to more central area.
Duskmane lowered her muzzle back to the soft, mossy nest. As she closed her eyes, the smell of fresh-kill and muddy cats wafted through the air. Meows of the apprentices and their mentors filled the hollow, though they made an effort to remain quiet. All in all, it was peaceful, and with a sigh, she nodded off into another dream.
?
"And above all, my proud warriors, never forget. Never forget the price you paid for this hallowed ground, this place you called home. To forget their sacrifice would be an insult against those who gave life to earn it. Even as you glare and hate, one day, it will all be forgotten. Not that you'll be around to see it." the shade remarked.
Valiance stood quietly off to the side, observing the vision carefully. Many bloody and weary cats seemed outraged at the she-shade's words, and he heard whispers of rebellion among them. Others seemed relaxed but still listened carefully to all she had to say. As it all faded to black, he could have sworn she looked at him with a grin.
Always. Don't forget. I MEAN IT.