Chapter 17: Dark Before Dawn

Jaggedshadow blocked Tigerstar's strike, striking back with his other foreleg. He ducked, tripping a dark-furred tom. A rush of pride and adrenaline welled up in his chest as he leaped over Tigerstar, slashing his back. Before Jaggedshadow could make another move, Tigerstar pounced on him.

Claws tore fur from Jaggedshadow's shoulder and blood trickled onto his foreleg.

"Always keep your eyes on your enemies." Tigerstar stood, letting Jaggedshadow get up. "You are talented, young one, but no amount of talent will save you when you react too late to a threat."

"I know." Jaggedshadow took a small step away from Tigerstar. "Shall we continue?"

The Place of No Stars's sky began to brighten. Tigerstar froze. "No," he said, "Go to your nest. Dawn approaches."