Epilogue
Lelouch opened his eyes the next morning, sunlight making its way into the warrior's den. He saw that Dovewing was right next to him and she let out a small smile.
"Good morning sleepyhead."
"Oh, hi Dovewing. Sorry that I was tired and couldn't help fix the camp as much as I could." He apologized.
"That's okay. Bramblestar said that any of us were welcome to sleep whenever we needed to." She responded. "Besides, you have that shoulder injury."
"Right…" Dovewing sensed a hint of uneasiness in his voice.
"Is something wrong?"
"It's just…everything that happened last night…it's a bit hard to take in all at once. I mean, I've been through my share of moments, some maybe even worse than the battle, but no matter what, something that impactful just seems to linger in my head for a bit."
"Well it's understandable. The Clans did go through a lot last night. I'm sure all of us are still thinking about it." Lelouch slowly got up to his paws and walked out of the den, Dovewing walking behind him.
"Wow, everything looks almost back to normal already." Lelouch stated, looking at the cats who were rebuilding the camp. Even after a battle like the one yesterday, they were all still at work, their new leader Bramblestar watching them all.
"Did you want to go get something to eat?" She asked, but he shook his head.
"I'm fine for now. Actually, I'll be right back. I want to speak with Bramblestar." Dovewing nodded before Lelouch headed over to the leader's den, Bramblestar smiling as the tom approached.
"Lelouch, did you sleep well? How is your shoulder?"
"I did, and my shoulder's slowly getting better. Thanks for asking."
"Of course." He meowed. "What can I help you with?"
"Oh, well I was just wondering if the Clan needed any more help rebuilding. Everything almost seems good as new."
"I'm sure the Clan is doing fine at the moment. After everything's done I was just going to let everyone rest. We all deserve it." He told him. "Is that all you wanted to ask me?"
"Not really. There's another thing." Bramblestar nodded his head, allowing Lelouch to speak. "Tigerstar…he's your father, correct?"
"Yes."
"From what I've been told he was a horrible cat, and what I saw him do yesterday proves those stories. My father was the same way. He was blinded by his own motives and only sought for a world that he wanted. I guess what I'm trying to say is that we're a bit similar, Bramblestar. Don't let anyone hold the fact that your father was bad over your head. You're you, and I know for a fact the leadership you have is greater and more just than his."
"Thank you, Lelouch. I really appreciate it, as well as the help that you've given our Clan last night. I promise that no matter what, you'll always be welcome in ThunderClan." Lelouch bowed his head in thanks before he cautiously made his way down Highledge to meet back up with Dovewing.
"Everything alright?"
"Yeah, I just wanted to ask if the Clan needed any more help. He says today he's giving us time to rest."
"I guess it is appropriate, especially after the battle. I'm sure all the other Clans are doing the same thing." She said.
"Yeah." The two stayed silent until Lelouch spoke again. "Listen Dovewing, can I talk with you for a bit?"
"Well, we're talking right now, aren't we?"
"I mean…alone." He meowed. "You don't mind, right?"
"Um…okay?" Lelouch made his way to the exit of the camp, the she-cat following him. Dovewing was still confused about what was going on. The two made their way into the forest and continued walking for a while until Lelouch stopped. "I didn't do anything bad, did I?" He shook his head.
"Of course not. It's just that...How can I say this without sounding weird?" Lelouch looked around, trying to think of the words to tell her. "Do you…like me, Dovewing?" Her face began to grow hot, the she-cat avoiding the tom's gaze. Does he…really think I like him? Maybe I've been being a bit affectionate towards him lately, but that's not the reason why. No, no, that doesn't make sense! I've acted the way I have towards him because of that…but… "It's okay if you don't." He rubbed his head with a paw, looking away from her. "I hope things are weird between us by me asking."
"No, of course not!" Their eyes met again, and Dovewing let out a sigh. "Lelouch, you really are an amazing cat, and I shouldn't hide the truth from you. You're just…so brave and kind. I guess it also doesn't help that you showed all those traits at the time I needed someone there for me." She admitted. I know it's weird having feelings for someone who isn't even originally a cat, so It's okay if you don't feel the same way. I already have Bumblestripe and Tigerheart practically fighting for my attention, but I think now it's only Bumblestripe." He then let out his own sigh.
"Dovewing…if we're being honest here, I have some feelings for you, too." She let out a small gasp.
"Really?" He nodded his head.
"I really shouldn't be feeling this way, especially since we haven't known each other for that long, but…" The tom was at a loss for words. Love was never really his strong spot.
"Lelouch, that really means a lot to me, but I think you should be with Ivypool instead." She replied. "It's just that…having two cats already have feelings for me compared to her not having a cat like that? She really has worked hard and you really do make her happy knowing that you care for her. Ivypool really does love you, Lelouch, more than I do."
"I'm aware." Lelouch's face began to burn with embarrassment. "I-I know I'm going to sound a bit love crazy at the moment, but I do like her too. She's done so much for me while I've been here and I really…love being around her." He admitted. "I-I don't know if it's wrong because I like you both and you're sisters, but…" She placed her tail over his mouth to silence him.
"I think it's a bit cute, actually." She assured him, letting out a soft smile. "I mean, it can't be that weird since you know that we both like you as well."
"I guess you're right. It just sounds a bit strange when I think about it." She let out a small giggle.
"So, is that all you wanted to tell me?" He nodded. "Thanks for bringing it up. I honestly don't know if I'd have the courage to ask you myself."
"I understand. Love's a pretty confusing emotion."
"Agreed." She looked over at the Clan, and then back at him. "Lelouch, you should go talk to Ivypool. I'm sure she'd love to hear what you just told me."
"Right." The two walked back to the camp and they both began looking for Ivypool. They saw her standing over the fresh-kill pile, dropping off what she just caught. They walked over to her, and she smiled at the sight of them.
"Hey sis!" Dovewing called out as she and Lelouch approached.
"Oh, hi you two." She greeted. Dovewing looked over at Lelouch and gave him a small nudge, causing Ivypool to let out a small laugh. "Is something going on here?"
"What? Yeah, everything's fine." Lelouch assured her. "I actually wanted to talk with you, Ivypool. Alone. You're not busy, are you?" She tilted her head in confusion.
"No, I'm free right now." She replied.
"Great. Follow me." The tom began walking towards the camp entrance. Ivypool looked back at her sister, who smiled before making her way towards the warriors' den. Ivypool caught up with Lelouch and the two walked through the thorn tunnel together.
"How's your shoulder?"
"It's doing better. Still a bit of a pain to walk, but I'll be fine." Lelouch looked over at her and could feel his chest tighten. This feels so strange to me…but I really do feel this way about her, which I still can't believe.
"Lelouch, I actually wanted to talk to you about something, too." She admitted, breaking the tom away from his thoughts. "B-But you can talk first. I don't mind."
"S-Sure Ivypool." He stuttered. Ivypool noticed him turn his gaze away from hers, his violet eyes staring off into the forest around them. He seems embarrassed about something. I hope I didn't do anything wrong. Ivypool waited, but still the tom didn't speak. Could he…no… Lelouch let out a sigh, bringing her attention back to him.
"Ivypool, during the battle with the Dark Forest yesterday…I just wanted to thank you for everything you did for me. You've cared for me so much…and I really appreciate it."
"Why wouldn't I care about you? We are friends, aren't we?" She responded. "You...really have cared for me too, Lelouch. Why wouldn't I do the same?" A blush formed on her face. His violet eyes once again touched her crystal blue gaze. "You saved my life twice yesterday. W-Without you…I might not be here. You mean so much to me, Lelouch, more than any cat."
"Ivypool…" It was more than obvious that Ivypool felt the same way about him, but regardless, Lelouch was still nervous. "I-I know that we're great friends, but…I've been thinking that we could be…more than that." The blush on Ivypool's face intensified and she placed a paw over her mouth in astonishment at the tom's proposal.
"Lelouch…"
"I'm…really not perfect when it comes to this stuff, but…I love you, Ivypool." He confessed, a strong blush on his face. "I-I know it's strange, especially since I'm not originally a cat, but…I can't fight away how I feel about you…I don't want to." Ivypool's eyes began to glisten at the tom's confession. She walked over to him and brushed her head below his chin.
"You're perfect to me." A loving purr resonated from her. "I really do love you, Lelouch. Yesterday you saved my life and I really loved getting to know you ever since you first came to ThunderClan." She rubbed her eyes into his coat. "I'm…so happy that you were the first cat that I ever fell in love with. I was…worried that you didn't feel the same way."
"Why wouldn't I? You've made me feel at home in this world."
"I just…thought being a Twoleg would make it seem ridiculous."
"Like I said, I know it's strange, but…with everything you've done for me…" She silenced the tom with a lick to the cheek.
"You don't have to explain yourself. I'm just glad your heart chose me, Lelouch." He let out a smile, but then turned his violet gaze towards the ground. "W-Was that too much?"
"N-No, it's just that…I'm sorry for all of this."
"What do you mean?"
"Ivypool…there might be a time when I have to leave this world. I just…don't want you distraught over that." She shook her head.
"I don't care. I know being in this world isn't normal for you, but the Clans and I see you as a blessing. I want to be the cat who gets the opportunity to be by your side in battle, and in love, for as long as I can." She saw Lelouch beginning to blush, causing her to giggle. "Sorry…I don't mean to sound this passionate about love. Usually I'm the tough one around camp. This is all a bit embarrassing, to be honest."
"Well, don't change for my sake. The tough Ivypool was enough to make me feel this way about you, after all." He meowed. "So, what did you want to talk to me about?"
"Well, you brought it up, actually. I thought I'd have to be the one confessing how I've felt about you. Thanks for doing that."
"You lucked out then. This was probably one of the hardest things I've ever done." She let out a giggle. "I guess it helps that I felt like you had feelings for me."
"D-Did I really make it seem that way last night?" He nodded. "Thought so…"
"Don't feel embarrassed about it." He assured her with a small laugh, causing her to smile. "That's the smile I want to see. We should get back to camp now." Ivypool nodded and the two made their way through the thorn tunnel together, this time, as mates. When they entered camp, Dovewing was the first to approach them.
"Is it official you two?" Ivypool looked at her with a bit of confusion, and Dovewing let out a sigh. "Don't act like you don't know what I'm talking about, sis! You two are together now, right?"
"Oh! Yes, it's true." The confirmation caused her sister to smile.
"Oh, I'm so happy for you two! My amazing sister and amazing friend are together! Lelouch, I know you'll take good care of her."
"I know he will, and if he doesn't, feel free to kill him, Dovewing." Her sister teased.
"Wait! What's this I hear about you two being together?" Cinderheart meowed as she approached, Lionblaze next to her. "Aw…you two look so cute together!" Ivypool and Lelouch both looked away in embarrassment. "Sorry, I just couldn't help myself."
"I mean, it's not really a criteria to be a Clan cat, but you do seem to be getting accustomed to this world, Lelouch." Lionblaze told him.
"It definitely is starting to feel that way." He replied. "I was just telling Ivypool that…well…you all realize that I won't be here forever, right?"
"Of course we do, which makes us cherish the time we get to share with you even more." Cinderheart told him. As they were talking, they saw Bramblestar standing on Highledge, watching over the Clan.
"Let all cats old enough to catch their own prey gather here beneath the Highledge for a Clan meeting!" The leader called out. All the cats fitting the criteria made their way below the Highledge and looked up at Bramblestar. "Clanmates, I am very happy about the state the Clan camp is in at the moment, especially after what all the Clans went through last night. We lost the life of one of the greatest leaders ThunderClan has ever had, and it's going to be quite difficult to fill his pawsteps, but I promise to try our best. I am glad that we have persevered over the struggles we have recently faced and I have high hopes for the future that is yet to come." He let out a small breath and looked over the crowd of ThunderClan cats. "Lelouch, can you please come up here with me?" The black cat looked at the others who now stared at him.
"You should probably go up there." Ivypool told him, a small bit of laughter in her voice. The other cats moved so that Lelouch could join Bramblestar atop of the Highledge.
"Yes, Bramblestar?"
"You're in no trouble, although quite the opposite. ThunderClan thanks you for everything that you've done for us, despite not even being part of this world. You fought valiantly against the Dark Forest cats and have shown how pure your heart truly is. Now, we've never had a case like this before, but as of today, you are officially a ThunderClan warrior, although I'm pretty sure you've taken that title already during the first day you were here."
"Lelouch! Lelouch!" Lionblaze chanted out, and soon, the rest of the cats joined in.
"Thank you everyone, but I should be thanking you all for giving me a place to stay in a world that I am unfamiliar with. I'm not sure when I'll leave this world, but I promise that my loyalty will forever lie with ThunderClan."
"Another thing," Bramblestar looked over back towards the other cats. "I know that it is custom for a newly appointed warrior to go through a silent vigil watching over the Clan, but I would like to postpone that necessity for tomorrow night." Cats around the Clan began to talk with each other, wondering what their new leader was up to. "Now, I know that this is different, but it's because I would like Lelouch to join Jayfeather and myself to the trip to the Moonpool tonight to receive my lives as leader."
"But why?" Foxleap asked out loud.
"To see if he's able to come in contact with StarClan. I know that he was able to see the spirits of our ancestors yesterday during our battle and that they know about him, but I want to see if he can walk with them in his dreams."
"Bramblestar, are you sure about this? What if StarClan does something to you because of it?" Lelouch asked.
"I'm sure they won't, especially for a harmless act such as this one." He responded. "This Clan meeting will now come to a close. I'm sure that the Clans are under a truce after our last battle, so there isn't much need for patrols today. Continue fixing up the Clan, catching fresh-kill, and resting for a while, but don't get used to it." He told his Clan with a small laugh before they continued on with their day. Lelouch turned to face the ThunderClan leader.
"So, why is it important that I can meet with your ancestors in my dreams?"
"Because you're not of Clan blood, or even cat blood for that matter. Firestar told me that back in your world you were a Twoleg."
"Oh..."
"Don't see it as a bad thing. Everyone in ThunderClan knows. You can thank Dovewing and Lionblaze for that one." Lelouch let out a small smile. "In all seriousness though, I would like to see if your case is similar to Firestar's. As you know, he isn't Clan born, but was able to go as far as becoming leader, which takes contacting StarClan during that time and approaching leadership. I don't doubt that StarClan wants to share tongues with you, but this would be a good time to check."
"Share tongues?" Lelouch tilted his head in confusion.
"Is this the first time you've heard the term before?" He nodded. "I'm sure you've seen it in action, though. Sharing tongues is when two cats groom each other and talk." Lelouch thought about it and realized that he had seen the act being done a few times.
"That makes sense. If you don't mind me asking, what about the silent night vigil?"
"That's a typical mandatory duty for all new warriors. All you need to do is keep watch of the Clan while the others rest. Because you're the only new warrior at the moment, you'll be taking this task on your own. You have to make sure to stay silent, except in the case of an emergency."
"Got it."
"Excellent. We leave tonight." Lelouch nodded and headed down the Highledge to find the others.
"Hey, there's our new warrior." Lionblaze greeted him as he approached.
"Congratulations, Lelouch. Like Bramblestar said, we were all pretty sure you were warrior material already, but it's official now." Ivypool told him, pressing her body closer to his. Dovewing flinched a bit, causing Cinderheart to look at her with a bit of concern.
"Dovewing, are you okay?"
"What? Oh, y-yeah, my mind's just all over the place, that's all." She told him.
"Are you thinking about Bumblestripe?" She teased.
"No! I just need some alone time, that's all." Dovewing walked away from the group, her sudden outburst causing the others to look at each other.
"Maybe I should go talk to her. We are sisters after all, so I can easily get to her." Ivypool left the group and headed over to the vacant area her sister was resting at. "Hey Dovewing, is everything alright?" Her sister stayed silent. Ivypool moved to the front of her and moved her head down so that their eyes met.
"Can you leave me alone for a bit? Please?"
"I can't leave you like this. Can't you tell any of us what's wrong?" Dovewing let out a growl, stood up, and looked at her sister.
"I love him too, okay!" She yelled, but not so loud as to bring attention to the two.
"Love him too? What are you…" Ivypool let out a small gasp. "L-Lelouch?" Dovewing let out a sigh and turned her gaze away from her sister. "Dovewing, please, we can talk about this! Why didn't you tell me?"
"I didn't want you to worry about how I would feel about you and him being together. I know I was happy when I heard the news, but after that…I don't know what happened."
"Dovewing…"
"I don't even know why I'm acting like this. You deserve to feel what being in love is like and having someone. I already have Tigerheart and Bumblestripe on my mind constantly…but now Lelouch is there as well."
"I see. Let me talk to Lelouch about this." Dovewing shook her head, and smiled.
"This is why you deserve him. You're so caring, Ivypool. You don't need to talk about it to him. I told him how I felt before he talked with you." Dovewing let out a small smile. "Just don't worry about me for now. I really probably just need to clear my mind and I'll be back to my old self again."
"But you didn't change at all. It's okay that you love Lelouch. It's not a feeling that you can just throw away like that. I just don't want to see you sad because you're jealous of me."
"And I don't want to see you sad because I'm acting up when I'm really happy for you both." Unexpectedly, Dovewing let out a small laugh. "Love is just stupid sometimes, huh?" That small change in emotions was enough to make Ivypool smile.
"I guess you're the proof of that, huh?" She teased, her sister giving her a small shove. "Let's get back to the others."
"Right." As they were walking, Dovewing looked over at her sister. "To be fair, he does like me too, but I'm positive that he loves you."
"You think so?"
"I know so. I hope that he stays here long enough for you to actually have kits." The statement caused Ivypool's face to burn with embarrassment.
"D-Dovewing! It's too early to think about that!"
"You're right, I'm sorry." She apologized. As they approached, the other three looked at them both.
"Hey you two. Everything alright?" Lionblaze asked them.
"Yeah, just needed some bonding time."
"As if it was even needed." Cinderheart let out a small giggle.
"So, what are we up to today?" Lelouch asked them.
"We should probably continue helping rebuild the Clan. I mean, it looks fine, but I'm sure there are more things needing to be finished." Dovewing responded.
"Well let's get to it then!"
/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\
"Are we almost there?" Lelouch asked Bramblestar. The moon now illuminated the sky, Bramblestar, Jayfeather, and Lelouch making their way towards the Moonpool.
"Asking won't make us get there any quicker." Jayfeather told him.
"Sorry. I'm just a bit anxious and tired."
"Well if a walk like this is making you tired even after the herbs we ate before, maybe I should take your title of warrior back." Bramblestar joked. "We're actually here right now. Look over there." Lelouch looked around, but didn't see the pool in sight.
"I don't see it."
"Of course you don't, but you do see where the stream begins to flow, right?"
"Yeah."
"Well that stream comes from the Moonpool." Bramblestar walked over to the stone hollow nearby, and Lelouch followed, helping Jayfeather along the way. They walked into the hollow and Lelouch looked in awe at the glistening pool in front of his eyes. Everything seemed tranquil, the only sound heard being the small waterfall pouring into it.
"It's amazing." Lelouch told him. "So, what do we need to do now?"
"You both need to drink the water from the Moonpool and then begin to dream." Jayfeather told them as he approached the pool to drink some of the water. He lied down on the ground, and both Lelouch and Bramblestar made their way towards the pool. They each took a sip, and then found a spot to lie down at to begin sharing tongues with StarClan.
/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\
Lelouch slowly opened his eyes and saw no sign of Jayfeather or Bramblestar, or even the Moonpool for that matter. Stars were scattered throughout the sky above and the surroundings overall felt peaceful. From the grass, to the trees, Lelouch's mind was at ease. This must be StarClan. He thought.
"Lelouch, is that you?" The black cat turned around to see who called his name. He saw a dark tortoiseshell and white she-cat with amber eyes.
"I'm sorry, do I know you?" He asked her, the she-cat shaking her head.
"It's okay though. This is this first time we've met. I just know you because this is where I live now." Lelouch could sense a certain scent to her, one that also helped add to the beauty surrounding him. "I'm Spottedleaf. I'm sure you've at least heard about me."
"Wait…you're Spottedleaf? I thought that you died yesterday at the battle with the Dark Forest." She nodded her head, the response causing him to flinch as he realized that right in front of him was a cat who had to experience death a second time.
"You don't need to feel bad about me dying, Lelouch. I knew the risk that I was taking, and even I'm surprised that I'm still here in StarClan."
"I'm sorry that I couldn't help save you, Spottedleaf." She shook her head and let out a small smile.
"You're exactly like Firestar. Cats like that don't come around every day. Here, I'll guide you around StarClan." She took the lead and he followed right next to her.
"Wait, you said that you were surprised that you were still here in StarClan. Does that mean if you die here that's it?"
"That's what I've been told. Even I'm not sure how I'm still here, but I'm really glad that I got to meet you, Lelouch. When I said you were exactly like Firestar, I meant it. You share every characteristic he has, from his leadership to his courage, and even to his looks as well." Embarrassment filled Lelouch at her comments, causing her to let out a small giggle.
"Where is Firestar anyway?"
"He's over at a separate area of StarClan giving Bramblestar his nine lives. You're not allowed to see the ceremony, so that's why you're here." The two reached an area filled with cats hunting, resting or sharing tongues. Lelouch saw some familiar faces from yesterday, such as Whitestorm and Lionheart. Suddenly, a breeze blew past the two, a cascade of pink petals following it.
"Cherry blossoms? I've never seen them in the forest." Lelouch told her.
"Well that's because your friend brought this one here to tell us about you."
"My friend?"
"Yes. She was a Twoleg with lime green hair. We were a bit shocked at first, but once we found out she was able to communicate with us, we were a bit relieved."
"That must be C.C. Is she still here now?" She shook her head.
"I'm afraid not. She gave us this tree as a sign to show us that you were the cat prophesized. This tree native to where you're from is a beautiful addition to StarClan." Lelouch let out a small sigh. "Is something wrong?"
"It's just that…I still have a lingering doubt about me fulfilling my prophecy." He looked over at her. "Spottedleaf, do you think that I have?"
"That's all up to your interpretation, Lelouch. Do you feel like you have?"
"Bluestar asked me the same question last night."
"So, what's your answer?" She asked. Lelouch stood there, pondering about the prophecy.
"I…yes Spottedleaf, I do feel like I've been a savior to the Clans. Initially, I felt like I didn't when I asked you, but now I realize that every single cat that fought for the Clans last night is a savior in their own right." His response caused her to smile.
"That was a very eloquent answer. I know I told you before, but I'm grateful to have the opportunity to meet and talk with you, Lelouch. Even though you're not from this world, it's good to know that there are creatures with the same exemplary qualities of warriors here." She brushed her head under his muzzle, causing him to blush a bit.
"Um…Spottedleaf?"
"Hm?" She moved away from him. "Oh, did I make you uncomfortable? I thought you were Firestar for a second." She apologized. "Anyway, you should be going now. I think Bramblestar and Jayfeather are waiting."
"Thank you for the talk. I appreciate it."
"You're welcome. Just remember that as long as you're in this world, StarClan will be watching over you." Lelouch nodded his head and watched as Spottedleaf's figure became a blur.
Lelouch slowly opened his eyes to see Jayfeather and Bramblestar looking over his body.
"So…how was it?" Jayfeather asked. "Anything bad happen to you?"
"What? No, nothing bad happened. I did talk to Spottedleaf, though."
"Spottedleaf? I thought she died during the battle yesterday?" Bramblestar stated.
"She did, but even she doesn't know why she's still alive." He answered. "So Bramblestar, is it official?" The ThunderClan leader nodded his head. "That's great to hear."
"Thank you. How about you, Lelouch? What did you and Spottedleaf talk about?"
"Well she told me that my companion C.C. visited StarClan and left a cherry blossom tree there."
"It's a beautiful tree, Bramblestar. Hopefully you can see it sometime." Jayfeather told him.
"I see. Anything else?"
"Well, I answered my own question about my prophecy."
"What's your answer to it?" Bramblestar wondered.
"I believe that I have fulfilled my prophecy, however that doesn't mean that I'm going to just sit around and do nothing. ThunderClan's my home at the moment, and I'll continue to train and protect it and the other Clans from any danger." His response caused Bramblestar to smile.
"If I didn't know any better I'd say you were born a ThunderClan cat." Lelouch let out a small laugh. "Come, we should get going back to the camp." The two others nodded and followed Bramblestar. C.C. sent me here to fulfill a prophecy, and I've done my part in helping the Clans in this world. I've quickly become friends with the cats of ThunderClan, and I'm glad that I can call this place my home for the time being. Is it possible that fate will call me somewhere else? Regardless, I'll make sure to fight on the side of justice, no matter what world I'm in.