Disclaimer: I do not own Warriors. Too bad...

I know I said there would be a delay today, but it turns out my appointment is actually tomorrow, not today! So, that means this chapter is for you. And for those who haven't reviewed my story yet: have an opinion? Question? Suggestion? Then reviewing is the thing for you! (game show music) Now read. Bye.

Chapter 5: Regret

Hawkfur and Stripedpaw were finishing off their hunt and sunset. Stripedpaw was quiet as she was asking her mind questions about Yellowpaw's not yet existing warrior ceremony. Stripedpaw thought of all the apprentices Yellowpaw was by far the best fighter and a good hunter, if a little careless at times with scents.

"Hawkfur, why doesn't Yellowpaw have a warrior ceremony date set yet? At this rate she'll be the last of the apprentices to become a warrior," Stripedpaw asked her mentor. "I mean, I know she's a stronger fighter than me."

Hawkfur sighed before responding. "She is an exceptional fighter. But she does have one big problem, and that's being merciful."

"Wait, I don't get it. What do you mean?"

"I mean that she doesn't know how to let people go. You know how she argues and bickers with Sandyfur and Spikepaw? Well, it's just like that, but with real fighting. She won't give anyone any mercy, won't let them go."

"Could you explain more?" Stripedpaw requested."You see, I'm afraid she won't cut any slack or give mercy to the point where it's a serious danger to the cats around her. I'm afraid that one day, when she's older and even stronger, she might really hurt someone when she doesn't mean to. What if a couple of apprentices tick her off on a bad day? She might hurt them and…"

"She wouldn't do that!" Stripedpaw could hear herself getting angry. "Are you even hearing yourself! She's your daughter, and my best friend! You should know as much as I do that she would never do that!"

"I know she wouldn't mean to, Stripedpaw, but we can't let her lose control, which she might if she gets too cocky from becoming a warrior before she's ready," Hawkfur replied calmly.

"No, she is ready!"

"The fact is Stripedpaw, she isn't, and she needs to…"

"No, wait. Please hear me out, Hawkfur… I know Yellowpaw is really powerful, but she can control it. She's strong, not stupid."

"You do have a point, Stripedpaw. But I just can't chance it. I'm sorry."

"Yeah, me too," Stripedpaw sighed as she picked up her bundle of fresh-kill.