Prologue
A slender shape moved through the undergrowth. The creature was cloaked in shadow, even the eyes blended in with the lush green around them. Paw steps were light and careful, pointed ears pricked for any sudden sound or movement that wasn't their own.
The last thing I need is some mouse-brain to find me. My plans will be ruined then.
The figure continued to creep carefully among the forest they called home. No other cat scent had come this way for a few days, as the smell was stale. A smirk tugged at the corner of their maw.
What fools. I can't wait to have my revenge on them all.
The forest gave away to a clearing, reaching out in an endless mess of green and blue. A gentle breeze brushed against their dark fur, and their eyes closed briefly for a few seconds. A wave of calmness washed over them as they stood in silence. The leaves and grass rustled, the blades tickled their paws, and a strong sharp smell hit their nose.
It was what they had come here for. Opening their eyes, they stepped out of the safety of their territory, into a land unknown and unclaimed by any cat, dog, fox, or wolf. It was a free game for all, and it was here where their plan would begin to take the first steps into running.
Any normal animal would have been uneasy stepping out of the comfort of their home, but that calmness remained. Nothing would touch them out here, even though they were alone, and far from their group. Danger could have come from anywhere, and still not a feeling of unease or anxiety.
Nothing will happen to me. The Spirits won't allow it. For my plan to happen, they wouldn't dare to strike me down now.
Paws bent the grass as they went forward into the field that laid beyond. The sharp scent of herbs grew stronger as they approached. Countless plants grew around, untouched, and unused by the Colonies, even though they were so close.
It was the perfect place to find what they needed.
It's a shame. All of these perfectly good herbs going to waste. Well, not anymore. Time for you to be useful my dears... Now, where is the one I need?
Their eyes scanned over the herbs and flowers. What one was it again? Their mentor had mentioned it among their dying breath, having been the one to want this all to happen in the first place.
I must find it. I must keep my promise.
Finally, their gaze landed on their prize. A single flower towered over the rest, beckoning to come closer. The queen among the slaves. There was what they were looking for.
Lip curling into a dark grin, they stalked towards the plant, carefully nipping it so more could grow before the winter months fell. If they took too much now, all this would be for nothing.
I need to play my cards right, and I'll be rewarded in time.
They turned, their eyes looking into the forest they called home, eyes narrowing as they darkened. A faint growl formed in their throat, threatening to snap the flower in half.
The Colonies will fall, just as you wanted. I won't fail you.