Heart of Fire: The Darkest Hour

by sierra.stanley.52

'Beware the snake that blood trails after' A sinister omen hangs over the head of the new ThunderClan leader. As tensions fly, so does a lurking darkness...one that's out for the Clans home, and the Clan cats blood. Will Firestar be able to save the one's she cares for most? or will ThunderClan, and the rest of the Clans fall apart at the seams.

4. Chapter 4

Hello! Wow! We are getting close to finishing the first series of Heart of Fire! Wow! Just wow! I would like to thank you for your reviews! Keep them coming! And Fattycatty101, I like your suggestions! But I don't see them coming into play any time soon...although! XD I really, really like Thistlefang...you don't mind if I steal him...do you? I really like him! But if I can, I will find places for all of your cats! (although in different places for the kits! But Brightcloud! I can see her coming from ShadowClan and falling in love with a WindClan cat that tells her to hit the road and goes, to ThunderClan for shelter and I wouldn't but it past Firestar to let her! XD)

Now, If you haven't voted on my poll yet, best do it now! I will be taking it down just as soon as I finish 'The Darkest Hour' well, on with the story! And thank you for your dedication in reading!

Also I have a deviant arts! I have posted some pic's I drew of some of my oc characters, some that you already know about. And some that will appear later on in the series! My profile name is Stony11 so look me up!

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Firestar jolted awake in terror. She was lying in the cavern beneath Highstones with her nose pressed against the Moonstone. The shaft of moonlight had vanished, and only the faintest glimmer of starshine lit the cave. But there was no relief in waking up, for the stench of blood was still all around her and her fur still tingled as if large fleas ran through it.

Heart thudding wildly, Firestar scrambled to her paws. Across the cave she could just make out Spottedleaf. She had risen too, and was signaling urgently to Firestar with her tail. Firest'ar first impulse was to pour out to the pretty tortoiseshell medicine cat all that she had seen, but she remembered her instructions to keep silent until they had left Mothermouth. Paws skidding on the cave floor in her haste, Firestar pushed past the medicine cat and bolted into the tunnel.

As she stumbled upward toward the open air, following her own scent trail and Spottedleaf's own, sweeter scent along the dark passage, the way seemed twice as long as before. Firestar's fur scraped against the tunnel walls and she was filled with the horror at the thought of being buried alive. The air felt too thick to breathe, and as her panic grew in the unbroken blackness of the tunnel she began to imagine that it would never end, that she would be trapped forever in blood and darkness and the sound of hissing ringing in her ears.

Then she saw the pale outline of the tunnel entrance, and burst out into the still night air, where the moon was sinking behind thin clouds. Firestar dug her claws into the loose earth of the hillside while shudders passed through her body from nose to slightly crooked tail.

A few moments later, Spottedleaf emerged behind her and pressed herself against Firestar's side until she managed to control her dreadful shivering and her breathing steadied.

"What happened?" she asked quietly, gently washing one of Firestar's ears in comfort.

"Don't you know?" Firestar wheezed, her voice raspy but calming under Spottedleaf's comforting licks and her fresh comforting herbal scent.

Spottedleaf pulled back slightly to shake her head. "I know that the ritual was interrupted-the scent of blood told me that. But I don't understand why." She looked deep into Firestar's eyes; her own normally calm amber one's were burning with concern. "Tell me...did you recieve your nine lives and your name?"

Firestar nodded, and the medicine cat relaxed slightly and congratulating licked on of her ears. "Then the rest can wait. Let's go home."

For a moment Firestar felt too exhausted to move. But she did not want to stay anywhere near Mothermouth and the terrible things that she had seen in the cave. Shakily, pawstep by pawstep, she began to descend the hill. Spottedleaf padded beside her, sometimes unconsciously nudging her toward an easier route, and Firestar was grateful for her unquestioning presence.

As they drew farther away from the tunnel, the stench of blood faded from her mouth and nostrils. Still, Firestar felt that even in the coldest of leaf-bare would never compare to the sensation of snakes crawling all over her body. She began to feel stronger since they exited the cave, but she was still very tired, and as soon as the rocky hillside gave way to grass she flopped down in the shelter of a hawthorn bush.

"I've got to rest," she meowed.

Wordlessly Spottedleaf tucked herself into the grass beside her and for a few moments the two she-cats shared tongues in silence. Firestar wanted to tell the pretty medicine cat what she had seen, but something kept her silent. Partly she wanted to protect her from the dreadful fear she had felt-even if she could explain what Bluestar's prophecy meant, would it help to have another cat look forward to the future with the dread that she now felt? And partly she hoped that if she never spoke of the dreadful vision, it might not come true. Or was there a curse on her new leadership that nothing could avert? Bluestar had told Fireheart before she died that she was fire who would save the Clan. How could that be true, if the fire was quenched by the tidal wave of blood and be struck with fear by snakes? What were their purpose in this? Those snakes? She could not ignore this, especially when it came at such a significant moment, while she was receiving her nine lives and her new name.

Spottedleaf broke into her reveries. "We don't have to talk about it now, just conserve your strength for the journey home. Then we will."

Firestar blinked gratefully at her friend, pushing her muzzle into her fur and thankful for her warmth. "Later," Fireheart breathed. "Not just yet...you know I never have told any cat this before, but...sometimes I have dreams that tell me about the future."

Spottedleaf's tail swept sharply behind her, her dark tortoiseshell fur fluffed up in surprise. "That's unusual. Clan leaders and medicine cats commun with StarClan, I never heard of another regular warrior having any,but it seems that StarClan had something destined for you. Tell me, how long has this been going on for?"

"Since I was a kittypet," Firestar admitted, remembering vividly the dream of hunting a mouse that had first driven her into the forest. "But I...I don't know if the dreams come from StarClan." After all, before she came to the forest, she hadn't even known about StarClan. Could they have been watching over her even then?

The medicine cats amber eyes were thoughtful, and held a spark of awe. "In the end, all dreams come from StarClan," she murmured. "Do they always come true?"

"Yes," Firestar instantly replied. "But not always in the way I expect. Some are easier to understand than others."

"Then you should bear that in mind when you're trying to understand this latest dream." Spottedleaf pressed against her in comfort. "Remember, Firestar, you're not alone. Now that you're Clan leader, StarClan will share many things with you. But I'm here to help you interpret the signs. Tell me as much or as little as you want, because I'm always here for you."

Firestar suddenly felt more calm than she had been in the cave. Now that Rock had left her to her own device, without her past memories, and the weight of the mysterious omen given to her. Even though she is terrified of what is to come, she realized that she had Spottedleaf to always rely on. With this closer bond with StarClan, she was grateful to not walk it alone. Though it might push her into things she might not want to go. She has her doubts, but with Spottedleaf's guidance and expertise she isn't on her own.

I'd like to see Dirtstripe or Longtail keep up with me! Firestar thought absently as she turned to face her friend. "Thank you, Spottedleaf," she meowed, warily rising to stand on her paws. "I know I can count on you whenever I need you."

Spottedleaf let out a short purr, rising to her own paws as she allowed Firestar to lean on her shoulder. "Let's keep going."

"If you're certain, and don't hesitate to ask for breaks." Spottedleaf meowed, padding alongside Firestar, setting her pace to match Firestar's slower one's as the began heading in the direction of home.

"I will," Firestar promised. Although however much Firestar longed to get home, her strength was failing. Since the discovery of the dog pack and the heartstopping dash through the forest to lead them to the gorge, she had eaten little, and scarcely slept except to dream. The long journey to Highstones and the agony of receiving her nine lives, followed by the terrible vision, had taken all she had to give.

Her steps became slower and more uncertain as they walked. They were passing Barley's farm when the medicine cat gave her shoulder a sharp nudge. "That's enough Firestar," she meowed her tone hard as she scrutinized Firestar. "You look dead on your paws and need to rest, medicine cats orders and you wouldn't go against the words of your medicine cat, now would you? There's Barley's farm, I've met him before. And didn't you say that Ravenpaw went to live with him? Let's see if they are at home."

"I'd never go against your orders," Firestar felt too relieved at the prospect of resting to argue.

Slowly and cautiously the two she-cats approached the Twoleg barn. Firestar was worried that the dogs might be unchained, but their scent was faint and distant. Much stronger was the scent of cats, and as they drew closer Firestar spotted a muscular black-and-white tom squeezing himself through a gap in the door.

"Barley!" Firestar meowed in greeting. "It's good to see you. You know Spottedleaf, our medicine cat?"

Barley gave both cats a brisk nod. "It's good to see you, too, Fireheart."

"Firestar," Spottedleaf gently corrected him. "She's ThunderClan's new leader now."

Barley's eyes widened in astonishment. "Congratulations! But that means that Bluestar must be dead. I'm sorry."

"She died as she lived, protecting her Clan," Firestar told him.

"I can see there's a story to tell," meowed Barley, turning back to the barn, "And Ravenpaw will want to hear it. Come on in."

Inside the barn it was warm and dark, full of the scent of hay and mice. Firestar listened to the telltale scuttering noises and her head spun with hunger.

"A soft place to sleep, and all the prey you can eat," she remarked, trying not to let her desperate hunger show. "Better not tell ThunderClan or they'll all be out here, wanting to be loners."

Barley chucked softly. "Ravenpaw," he called, "come and see who's here."

A dark shape sprang down from a nearby stack of hay with a welcoming purr. As an apprentice, Ravenpaw had been the only cat in ThunderClan who knew the truth about the death of Redtail-that he had been murdered by Ravenpaw's mentor, and Firestar's mate, Tigerstar. When Tigerstar tried to kill his apprentice to prevent him from reporting what he had seen, Firestar had found this new home for him. The life of a loner suited Ravenpaw much better than that of a warrior, yet he had never forgotten his birth Clan, and remained a loyal friend to his former Clan mates.

"So Bluestar is dead," Ravenpaw murmured when Barley had passed on the news. His eyes clouded with grief. "I'll never forget her."

Barley gave a comforting rumble in his throat, and Firestar sensed how welcoming he must have been to the scared young apprentice who had come to him so many moons ago.

Straightening up, Ravenpaw flashed the black-and-white cat a grateful glance. "So you're Clan leader now," he continued to Firestar. "StarClan made a good choice," he led the way to the other side of the barn. "Would you like to hunt?"

"That would be very appreciated," Spottedleaf replied. She gave Firestar questioning look, and murmured softly, "Shall I catch something for you?"

In spite of her exhaustion, Firestar shook her head. A fine Clan leader she would make if she couldn't catch her own prey! She stood alert, listening, and dropped into the hunter's crouch when she heard a soft scuffling deep within the hay. Pinpointing the mouse by hearing rather than sight, she sprang, and dispatched the creature with a swift bite.

Ravenpaw was lucky, Firestar reflected as she picked up the prey in her jaws and padded back to the others to eat. This was twice the size of the leaf-bare-thin mice in the forest, and easier to catch in the shadows of the barn. She gulped it down in a few famished mouthfuls and felt her strength beginning to return.

"Have some more," Ravenpaw urged. "There are plenty here."

When Firestar and Spottedleaf had eaten as much as they could manage they lay in the soft hay, sharing tongues with their friends and bringing them up-to-date with Clan news. Ravenpaw and Barley listened, their eyes huge with shock, as Firestar told them about the dog pack.

"Who would have thought Tigerstar would help save Bluestar," Ravenpaw meowed, sounding shocked, then realizing what he said, quickly amended. "Err-not that it's a bad thing or anything but-"

"I know," Firestar waved off, not blaming the black loner. "All that matters at the moment is that he has changed. And as long as he takes care of our kits and stays inside his own borders then I don't care."

"Certainly sounds like he's changed," Barley meowed, looking thoughtful. "But an ambitious cat like that...wouldn't put it past him to do something when your back is turned." Firestar had to secretly agree with Barley, but Tigerstar had so far kept to his word and so she avoided answering while taking a final gulps of mouse.

"He hasn't tried anything so far," Spottedleaf pointed out as she laid beside Firestar, looking calm and at peace. "But we'll take your word, can never be to cautious."

"To tell the truth, I'm not sure what to do without Bluestar." Firestar sighed, confessing to her hidden fear. "I mean, sure I took on the duty of deputy...alright, but leading the Clan? It just seems placed upon me too soon and quiet...overwhelming."

Spottedleaf took her by surprise when she snorted, her amber eyes filled with torn amusement and aspiration. "That's all nonsense Firestar, who was it that saved Yellowfang and helped save the Clan from Brokenstar when they were just an apprentice? Who was the one to lead WindClan home when they just became a warrior? Who was it that fought off Brokentail and his rogues when they were the only were the only warrior in camp? Who was the one who selflessly saved Cinderpelt from a monster at the cost of their own tail? Who was the one to uncover Tigerstar's plot's in the first place? Who was the one to take care of their kits while being Clan deputy? Who was the one that led the Clan during the fire and went rushing back in for the elders and Bramblekit? Who was the one to lead the Clan in times of great trouble? Who was the one that came up with the idea of taking care of the dogs and save the Clan? You can Firestar! And ThunderClan will proudly stand by you to the last breath."

"And so will I," Ravenpaw offered, startling Firestar. The sleek black tom looked slightly embarrassed as Firestar turned to look at him, but he went on; "I know I'm not a warrior, but if you want my help you have only to ask."

Firestar blinked her gratitude. "Thank you, Ravenpaw."

"May I come to the camp soon?" Ravenpaw asked, his fur flattening again as his embarrassment receded. "I'd like to pay my last respects to Bluestar at her burial place."

"Yes, of course," Firestar replied right away. "Bluestar gave you the right to go where you like on ThunderClan territory. There's no reason to change that now."

Ravenpaw dipped his head. "Thank you." As he looked up again, Firestar saw a glow of respect in his eyes, along with something else she couldn't place. "You saved my life once, Firestar. I'll never be able to repay you for that. But if trouble comes your way, I'll be proud to stand with the warriors of ThunderClan and fight alongside you to the death."

"T-thank you, Ravenpaw," Firestar felt choked up by her friends loyalty, to think Ravenpaw, even after becoming a loner, still felt such a connection with their friendship to die for her and ThunderClan was overwhelming. "But hopefully it won't come to that."

"Either way, ThunderClan will be grateful for such brave cats to defend it." Spottedleaf spoke, her eyes blinking warmly at Ravenpaw before turning to gave fully at Firestar. "And to have such a wonderful leader as you, Firestar."

Twilight was thickening the shadows under the trees by the time Firestar and Spottedleaf slipped down the ravine toward the camp entrance. They had slept in the barn with Barley and Ravenpaw until the sun was well above the horizon, and feasted again on plump mice before they set off for their own territory. Though Firestar was tired, some of the wariness of the journey was replaced by eagerness to be able to look forward to seeing her Clan mates and kits again.

At first the new leader emerged unnoticed from the gorse tunnel with Spottedleaf. Whitestorm, Brackenfur and Sandstorm were sitting together near the nettle patch, finishing off some fresh-kill, while four of the apprentices wrestled playfully outside their den. Firestar picked out the pale gray pelt of her own apprentice, Fernpaw, who was pinning her brother underneath her. Fernpaw had surpassed both the younger apprentices and even her own brother, and Firestar promised to keep up her training and Firestar didn't see why being leader should change that-after all, Bluestar had been a diligent mentor to her.

She was padding over to Whitestorm when she heard her name yowled loudly, and turned to see Squirrelpaw tripping over herself and even pushing past a startled Ashpaw who had gotten to his paws. The apprentices ginger fur was bristling with excitement as she happily greeted her mother. "Fireheart-no, Firestar! You're back!"

Her noisy greeting alerted the rest of the Clan and soon they were pressing around Firestar, calling her by her new name and welcoming her home. Firestar felt enlightened by the awe in their eyes as they gazed at her and enjoyed their warm fur that pressed against her, her kits even coming to rub against her with growing purrs of welcome showing how they had missed her.

"Did you really see StarClan?" asked Fernpaw, her eyes wide as she stared at her mentor, amazed to find herself the apprentice of Clan leader.

"I really did," Firestar replied. "But I'm not allowed to say anything about the ceremony."

But her apprentice didn't look disappointed. Her eyes brimming with admiration, she turned to Dustpelt who had padded up and meowed, "I bet she's going to be a great leader!"

"She better be," replied Dustpelt; his love for Fernpaw wouldn't let him argue with her, even though Firestar was well aware that she had never been Dustpelt's favorite cat. But the brown-coated warrior gave her a nod of respect, and Firestar knew that Dustpelt's loyalty to the warrior code would ensure his support.

"Of course she will, she's the best cat for the job!" Leafpaw purred as she scampered around her mother in a circle, coming to a halt beside Thornclaw and engaged him into a conversation her tail flickering behind her.

"It's good to see you back," meowed Graystripe, shouldering through the warriors to reach Firestar's side and gently scooting a protesting Squirrelpaw to the side. Her friends yellow eyes were filled with friendship and sympathy as he came to a stop in front of her. "You look like a fox that's been dead for a moon. Was it though?"

"It was," Firestar murmured, overlooking Graystripe's comment about looking like a dead fox, the comment was meant for Graystripe's ears, but Mothpaw, who had padded up alongside Swifttail and Spottedpaw overheard and her eyes lighted up at the news.

"What was it like seeing StarClan?" She asked, already firing away at another question before Firestar could tell her that she couldn't say. "Did you take some test? What was it like receiving your lives? Did StarClan tell you any secrets? Did they say anything about me? Do they think I'm the right cat to carry on the line of ThunderClan's medicine cats? What-"

"I think that's enough." Swifttail grumbled as he slapped his tail over Mothpaw's mouth to silence her. "It seems that you're back, I take it that things went well at Mothermouth?"

"It went fine," Firestar meowed, for the most part at least until the omen happened. "And how have you been?" Firestar questioned her youngest kit, and watched as Spottedpaw detached herself from Swifttail's side to pad up to her mother and touch noses.

"I'm feeling much better," Spottedpaw meowed, sounding a little unsure but better than she had days ago. "Swifttail and I are planning to start my training again soon."

"That's great to hear!" Firestar purred, nuzzling her daughter's cheek. Spottedpaw quickly stepped back towards Swifttail's side. The black-and-white warrior running his tongue over her dark ginger ears. Firestar stared for a moment, although Swifttail never really liked Firestar he did respect her, and his devotion and care for Spottedpaw was evident in his eyes whenever he looked her way.

As the welcoming cats began to disperse, Firestar caught the eye of Whitestorm, who had greeted her and then backed off a pace or two, waiting to speak.

"How are things in camp?" Firestar asked. "Was there any trouble while I was away?"

"Not a thing," the senior warrior reported. "We've combed the whole forest, there's no sign of any dogs."

"Good," Firestar mewed. Glancing at the well-stocked fresh-kill pile, she added, "I see some cats have been hunting."

"Sandstorm took a patrol out, and Mousefur and Brackenfur put the apprentices to work," replied Whitestorm. "Your apprentice is an excellent hunter, I can't count how much she has brought back on her own. And your kits are catching on just as fast, Squirrelpaw really lives up to her name," Amusement glittered his eyes. "I think it's about time that Fernpaw and Ashpaw be tested, to show how improved they are."

"Good," Firestar felt a thrill go down her spine at the senior warriors praise, maybe it was time for Ashpaw and Fernpaw to be evaluated. "I'll have to organize that as soon as I can."

Firestar was deep in her exhilaration at how her apprentice and kits training were coming along, that she didn't hear Spottedleaf's silent approach. "I'm off to my den," she meowed, "If you need anything, you know were I'll be. And don't forget that you need to appoint a deputy before moonhigh!"

Firestar nodded and Spottedleaf returned that nod, as the pretty tortoiseshell she-cat flicked her tail to her apprentice. Firestar reflected on her duty now, being serious in the matter of appointed a deputy. Because Bluestar had been so shocked by Tigerstar's treachery and exile, Bluestar had made firestar's own appointment a day late, without the proper ceremony. The Clan had been terrified that StarClan would be angry, and that had made things very difficult for Firestar. She was determined not to make the same mistake with her own deputy.

Watching Mothpaw trail after Spottedleaf across the clearing to their den, Firestar realized that so far two cats had not come to greet her. One was Darkstripe; that did not surprise her. The other was Bramblepaw, who out of all her kits wasn't one to come greet her and that concerned her. What had she done to make her son avoid her as she returned?

Slowly, Firestar got to her paws and padded over towards the nursery, sure that he would be there. As she dipped her way inside the familiar milky scent lingering in the air filled her scent glands. And their amongst the moss was Bramblepaw, watching over Willowpelt's kits.

"Stuck on kit duty, are we?" Firestar teased, spooking her son into a slight jump as he turned his head to stared wide-eyed as his mother for only a second, before diverting his gaze onto Sorrelkit and her siblings again.

"It's fine," Bramblepaw muttered, making Firestar's stomach drop at how distant her son seemed to be all of a sudden.

"Firestar! Firestar! Firestar!" Sorrelkit began to chant as she teetered on the edge of the bracken nest, her eyes wide as she stared in awe at her. "Did you really go all the way to Mothermouth?"

"I really did," Firestar replied to the little she-kit, watching fondly as her siblings came to balance beside her.

"What was it like? Did you run into dogs? Or rouge cats? Did you fight through a horde of rats?" Sootkit asked, his eyes wide with wonder.

"Nothing like that happened." Firestar flicked away their silly question but couldn't help the inner purr that rose up inside her. But turned to address her older kit, Bramblepaw. "Are you okay? Bramblepaw?"

"No, I'm fine," Bramblepaw said, but didn't meet her gaze and that made Firestar know instantly that something was wrong with her son.

"You can't hide anything from me, Bramblepaw," Firestar retorted. "I littered you, and I know when you are lying."

Bramblepaw shuffled in place, his eyes trained inside the mossy nest. All three of Willowpelt's kits seemed to take interest in their conversation. "Ya, what's the matter, Bramblepaw?" Sorrelkit meowed, her eyes glittering in what looked like torn interest and slight concern.

"It's just that, You're leader now and it's different than when your deputy." Bramblepaw began, his words coming in a rush of emotion that Firestar didn't know that Bramblepaw was hoarding. "And you'll be so busy now, it's like you'll never have time for us." it was how it was said that drew Firestar in, and she instantly knew what that meant. He was referring to how her duty to the Clan has changed, yes she was always busy as deputy but now she had life supporting issues for her Clan, duties that detached herself from kin feelings and singling out one cat. "And you're so far away now, you're so close with StarClan and so is Mothpaw and their will be stuff neither of you will tell me or be able too…"

"For how much you've grown, you're still a little kit you know?" Firestar meowed gently, coming to sit next to her son as she gave him a comforting lick on the ear. "I'll always be here for you, no matter what, I might be Clan leader, but I'm still your mother. And truthfully, I think that is my greatest achievement, even more than being Clan leader. And being Clan leader now, I see what I have to protect, this Clan, my friends, and my family. I fight for you as much as you fight for this Clan, we're here for each other, never forget that. And yes, I might not share everything with you, but I will always love you."

"Really?" Bramblepaw questioned, tilting his head up to look at his mother. And she was happy to note that they looked clear and relieved.

"It's a promise," Firestar purred, glad to see his son's spirits be restored. "Shouldn't you be training with Brightheart though?" Firestar inquired curiously, watching Bramblepaw roll his eyes.

"She's with Cloudtail, she's almost as bad as Sandstorm!" Bramblepaw shook his head with an exaggerated sigh. "Luckily I have Thornclaw to rely on, he's been a great help with battle training!"

"Then maybe you should go find him and get some training done? He might be looking for you right now!" Firestar suggested, and Bramblepaw looked thoughtful.

"I'll check in with him when Goldenflower comes back," Bramblepaw promised, turning back to gently roll Rainkit around so that Sorrelkit was able to pounce onto him.

"Good," Firestar meowed, giving her son a last look over her shoulder as she padded back outside the clearing. When Firestar walked out she found to her delight to see Cinderpelt already taking out the evening patrol, Brackenfur was behind her and Sandstorm was calling out to her apprentice, Squirrelpaw, the ginger she-cat came bolting after the three warriors as they headed for the gorse tunnel.

Firestar made her way toward the leaders den. She still couldn't think of it as her own, and she found herself missing her comfy patch of moos in the warriors den even more sharply. She would never sleep alongside her Clanmates, never again feel their warmth of the comfort of having them around her. Before she reached it however, she heard her name being called and turned to see Graystripe hurrying after her.

"Firestar, I wanted to tell you-" He broke off as if he were embarrassed.

"What's the problem?" Firestar asked with a bit concern for her old friend.

"We'll…" Graystripe hesitated and then went on in a rush. "I don't know if you were thinking of choosing me to be your deputy, but I wanted to say that you don't have to. I know I haven't been back in the Clan long enough, and some cats still don't trust me. I won't be hurt if you pick another cat."

Firestar felt a pang of regret. She would have chosen Graystripe as one of her closest friend's to fight and hunt beside her, and to give her the special support that a deputy gave the Clan leader. But it was true that she could not choose Graystripe so soon after her friend's return from RiverClan. Though Firestar herself had no doubt of her friend's loyalty to ThunderClan, Graystripe still had to prove himself before the rest of the Clan would accept him.

Leaning forward, Firestar touched noses with her friend. "Thank you, Graystripe," she mewed. "I'm glad you understand."

Graystripe shrugged, more embarrassed than ever. "I just wanted to say." He turned and vanished through the branches of the warriors den.

Firestar felt slightly choked with emotion and shook herself briskly. Padding around the Highrock to the den entrance, she heard movement inside. Ashpaw, the oldest tom apprentice, whirled around as Firestar went in.

"Firestar!" he exclaimed, sounding startled. "Whitestorm told me to fetch you some new bedding-and some fresh-kill. I hope you like it!" He flicked his tail to the far side of the den, where a rabbit lay beside a thick pile of moss and heather.

"That looks great, Ashpaw," Firestar meowed. "Thank you-and thank Whitestorm for me." The gray apprentice dipped his head and started to leave, only to halt as Firestar called him back. "Remind Dustpelt to have a word with me tomorrow," Firestar mewed, naming Ashpaw's grumpy mentor. "I'd like to see how you and your sister have progressed in your training, and who knows what might happen afterword." Maybe they might just become warriors, Firestar thought to herself, Fernpaw obviously was progressing quickly, and her brother as well...maybe it might just be time for them to become warriors. Don't go getting ahead of yourself Firestar. We'll see how it goes tomorrow, She internally told herself. But she still couldn't help the lingering thought of both Fernpaw and Ashpaw being ready.

Ashpaw's eyes widened for a moment, before narrowing in excitement. "Yes, Firestar! I'll tell him!" he meowed, and dashed off.

Firestar settled herself in the mossy nest and took a few mouthfuls of the rabbit. It had been thoughtful of Whitestorm to have the bedding changed, though Firestar still felt that Bluestar's scent lingered in the very walls of the den. Perhaps it always would, and that was no bad thing. There was pain in her memories of her dear leader, but comfort too, when Firestar thought of her wisdom and her courage in leading her Clan.

Shadows gathered around her as the last of the light died. Firestar was acutely conscious of being completely alone for the first time since joining the Clan: no warmth of other cats sleeping close by, no gentle snoring or the sound of cats shifting in their dreams. For a few heartbeats she felt lonelier than ever.

Then she told herself to stop being so mouse-brained. She had an important decision to make, and it was vital for ThunderClan that she get it right. Her choice of deputy would affect the life of the Clan for seasons to come.

Settling deeper into the moss, she wondered whether she ought to sleep now, and let the wills of StarClan come to her to make her choice for her. Then shook her head, this time more sharply, this was her choice. She knew straight away it couldn't be Graystripe, that was clear, and Firestar was grateful to her friend for making that part of her choice easy for her. She let her mind drift over the other possible cats. The new deputy would have to be experienced, and a cat whose loyalty had never been questioned. The next cat to pop into her mind was Sandstorm she was brave and intelligent and experienced with two apprentices of her own and a very popular choice among the cats. And her father, Redtail, as Firestar came to recall overhearing once from the gossiping queens when she was still a queen herself, was also deputy. But Sandstorm had Brackenfur, and even though she didn't see the problem with having a mate, Sandstorm would also be more dedicated to her mate and future kits along with warrior duties, and Firestar could never allow one of her best friends feel torn between kits and duty as deputy.

Cinderpelt, Firestar's old apprentice, although courageous and loyal, didn't have the patience for being deputy. She was too rash and was quick in making a decision, She would never mix well in negotiating a better way to settle an argument. Her brother Brackenfur, although brave and courageous just like Sandstorm and his sister, Cinderpelt, just didn't have it within himself to lead a Clan. in her circle of friends she couldn't find the one that fit the place of deputy, but should her view of who should be deputy extend just to her inner circle? Surely there was one cat who towered over all the other possibilities? Whitestorm was experienced, wise, and brave. When FIrstar had been made deputy, he had shown not a scrap of the resentment that a lesser cat might have felt. He had supported her from the beginning, and he was the cat Firestar naturally turned to when she needed advice. He was old, yes, but still strong and active. There were a good few moons left before he would be joining the elders in their den.

Yes, Firestar thought. Whitestorm will be the new deputy. She stretched in satisfaction. All that remained was to announce the decision to the Clan.

Firestar waited for a while, finishing the rabbit, drowsing but not letting herself fall into deep sleep in case she missed moonhigh. Silver light seeped into the den as the moon rose. Eventually she got to her paws, shook the scraps of moss from her fur, and padded out into the clearing.

Several of the Clan were pacing among the ferns at the edge, obviously waiting for the announcement. Cinderpelt and the evening patrol had returned and were eating their share of the fresh-kill. Firestar flicked her tail in greeting to the dark gray she-cat, her brother Brackenfur and his ginger mate, but did not go over to speak to them. Instead she sprang up onto the Highrock and yowled, "Let all cats old enough to catch their own prey join here beneath the Highrock for a Clan meeting."

Her summons was still ringing in the air when more cats began to appear, slipping from the shelter of their dens or padding into the moonlight from the shadows around the edge of the camp. Firestar saw Darkstripe stalk into the open and sit a few tail-lengths away from the rock, his tail wrapped around his paws and a scornful look in his eyes. Unobtrusively, Brackenfur and Sandstorm followed him and took up a position close by. And seeing that gleam in Sandstorm's forest green eyes, and how they discreetly narrowed on Darkstripe from time to time, Firestar figured that Brackenfur had told Sandstorm about keeping an eye on him.

Bramblepaw emerged from the nursery, Willowpelt's kits hopping out behind him as Goldenflower came to join them from where she was eating beside Frostfur in the nettle patch. They all settled down at the edge of the clearing, Sorrelkit scampering around Bramblepaw with an air of excitement, and Bramblepaw looked amused. Cinderpelt also went to join them, sitting beside Bramblepaw as the crowd gathered.

Thornclaw, Leafpaw, Squirrelpaw and Ashpaw all sat together near the front and Dustpelt and Fernpaw came to join them. Graystripe sat near the rock, close to Swifttail and Spottedpaw, and the elders all came out in a group with Cloudtail and Brightheart, and all the cats settled in the center of the clearing.

Firestar saw Whitestorm strolling over from the nettle patch with Spottedleaf and Mothpaw. There was no air of anticipation about him as he stopped for a quick word with Fernpaw and Ashpaw before taking his own place beside the Highrock.

Swallowing her nervousness, Firestar began. "The time has come to appoint a new deputy." Pausing, she felt the presence of Bluestar very close to her as she remembered the ritual words she used to speak. "I say these words before StarClan," she continued, "that the spirits of our ancestors may hear and approve my choice."

By now all the cats had turned their faces up to her; she looked down at their gleaming eyes in the moonlight and could almost taste their excitement.

"Whitestorm will be the new deputy of ThunderClan," she announced.

For a heartbeat there was silence. Whitestorm was blinking up at Firestar, a look of pleasure and surprise spreading over his face. Firestar realized that the surprise was part of what she liked so much about the old warrior; Whitestorm had never assumed that he would be the one chosen.

Slowly he rose to his paws. "Firestar, cats of ThunderClan," he meowed. "I never expected to be given this honor. I swear by StarClan that I will do all I can to serve you."

As he finished speaking, sound gradually swelled from the assembled cats, a mixture of yowls and purrs and voices calling, "Whitestorm!" all the Clan began to press around the white warrior, congratulating him. Firestar knew that she had made a very popular choice.

For a few moments she remained on the Highrock and watched. A new feeling of optimism surged through her paws, filling her with confidence and warmth. She had her nine lives; she had the best deputy a cat could wish for; and she had a team of warriors who were ready to face anything. The threat of the pack was over: and Firestar was hopeful that ThunderClan will flourish into a strong and healthy Clan once more in the wake of Bluestar's death.

Then, just as she was poised to leap down and offer her own good wishes to Whitestorm, she caught sight of Darkstripe. He alone of all the cats had not moved or spoken. He was staring up at Firestar, and his eyes burned with cold fire.

Firestar was instantly reminded of the dreadful vision in the ceremony; the pitch blackness and the snakes that were covered with blood that overswept her. Bluestar's words rang in her ears again; Four will become one. Fire and Ice will meet in battle, and blood with rule the forest.

Firestar still did not know what the prophecy meant, but the words were laden with doom. There would be battle and bloodshed. And in Darkstripe's malignant stare, Firestar seemed to see the first cloud that would eventually unleash the storm of war.

But the trance was broken however when Darkstripe whipped around and vanished into the warriors den. And Firestar pondered her fears no more as she gracefully leaped down and padded over to her deputy. "Congratulations, Whitestorm," Firestar meowed, blinking warmly at the older white warrior.

"Thank you, Firestar," Whitestorm meowed, dipping his head slightly. "For giving me this honor in serving my Clan."

"I couldn't find another cat more suitable for the job." Firestar replied, making room for her other Clanmates to say their congratulations and Firestar was happy to retreat over towards Sandstorm, Brackenfur, Graystripe and Cinderpelt.

"You made a great choice, Firestar," Sandstorm meowed, and Firestar was pleased. Sandstorm used to be Whitestorm's mentor when she was an apprentice, and Sandstorm looked exceedingly pleased with the choice.

"It was a good call," Brackenfur agreed, and Firestar wondered for just a moment if either of them thought that they would have been chosen.

"It was amazing," Cinderpelt gushed, her fluffy tail standing erect. "How did you choose him though? I thought you'd go for a younger warrior." but Cinderpelt still looked pleased by the fact that Whitestorm was deputy.

"He still has some moons in him, and his wisdom will level out my own inexperience," Firestar shrugged, her tail flickering slightly behind her.

"Great call," Graystripe agreed, his yellow eyes shining with approval. "But I beat Cinderpelt over here wouldn't have mind being made deputy, wouldn't you have, Cinderpelt?" Graystripe nudged Cinderpelt in the side, whose ears perked up at the thought.

"Me? Deputy? I can hardly see it, but I wouldn't turn it down if it were offered." Cinderpelt didn't seem to mind either way, and Firestar was happy to note that her former apprentice may just be content with staying a warrior.

"Cinderpelt? Deputy? StarClan helps us if that ever happened." Brackenfur said dryly, but his eyes twinkled with a teasing glint as his mate, Sandstorm murmured in amusement.

"Really?" Cinderpelt playfully growled. "Wouldn't you like to have been made deputy?"

Brackenfur looked thoughtful for a moment, before shaking his head. "No, I like being a plain old warrior."

"You're anything but plain," Sandstorm retorted, shoving Brackenfur gently in the side. "Or at least to me anyway."

"I think you'd be a great deputy," Brackenfur countered, his amber eyes looking at Sandstorm with devotion and love.

"I wouldn't mind, but I prefer being the best hunter in all of ThunderClan better." Sandstorm looked at Brackenfur the same way he was looking at her and Firestar couldn't help but think that she was intruding on a special moment. Cinderpelt and Graystripe seemed to think that same as they dispersed, Cinderpelt going to watch Leafpaw and Bramblepaw's play fight and Graystripe heading into the warriors den.

"I think I should get some sleep," Firestar thought as she headed for her own den, but her stomach clenched as she disappeared inside, she would be living in this den, alone from now on.

0o0o0o

Okay, originally this chapter was going to be longer. But I find this to be a good stopping place, really shows Firestar's feelings at the end of this and how she now feels a little bit separated from her family and friends...which won't be long really! She will feel better about it soon! XD so, anyone want a few fun facts? No? Well I don't care what you think, so here we go!

Main reason Firestar doesn't want Sandstorm to become deputy is cause she knows how Sandstorm wants a mate and kits (really, really wants kits! Says so on her page on Erin's wiki, said she wanted more kits than just Squirrelflight and Leafpool but was unable cause Firestar was always busy) and doesn't want her to feel torn between them like she did.

Bramblepaw is going to be a great dad, just as dedicated as Tigerstar is with his own! (oh, was that also a spoiler for later?)

Silverstream will show up again! (just not in this last book, but she will have a role in 'Firestar's quest and SkyClan's destiny.' Just wanted to put that in!)

Cinderpelt wants to be like Bluestar, and has always dreamed of being leader herself, but she will never become deputy or leader however!

Cinderpelt and her brother Thornclaw will be part of Firestar and Tigerclaw's family! (Brightheart is basically already part of their family through Cloudtail!)

Stress disorder runs in Firestar's side of the family, which is shown through Spottedpaw and through her generations. Firestar's generations that is!

Sandstorm will have kits! But not till 'Daughter of Fire and Tiger' so if you were looking forward to her getting pregnant during this story, you'll just have to wait!

Rock will not show up again until...he shows up again in cannon! (which I have no clue at the moment...Power of three or omen of the stars? Still figuring that out!)

Rock will not be showing up in either of Tigerstar's or Firestar's lives again, their grandkit's however? Yep, that will happen!

Willowpelt (might, haven't decided to really do this or not) show up again! (but as a guide you know?)

Viper has a sort of minor that leads up into a big role in the series! (Yes, she is also in 'Daughter of Fire and Tiger' but not shown physically!)

Viper is the reason for so much crap in the future!

Viper used to be a kittypet, but became a stray when her twolegs moved.

Sasha will be mentioned, but never shown! (though has nothing to do with Tigerstar!)

Personally, Firestar does not like Darkstripe (Dirtstripe) and frankly neither does the author.

Graystripe seems to be a jerk in this fan-fic as I have noticed. But he does have a sense of humor!

Fernpaw/cloud is more badass in this, and will be shown as such! Although she still has her sweet nature, Firestar's confidence and bravery rub off on her.

Fernpaw/cloud looks up to Firestar as a role model. And will express that.

Fernpaw/cloud wants to be like Firestar and Cinderpelt.

Firestar's most trusted cats in order, Sandstorm, Whitestorm, Graystripe, Cinderpelt, Brackenfur, and Ferncloud. Her kits and Cloudtail are included.

Spottedpaw and Mothpaw have major roles in the next series! (Daughter of Fire and Tiger)

Hawkfrost becomes a father! (adopted father that is!)

Firestar's quest will have major changes in it! Thanks to the author, although the main plot of it stays the same!

Question, who is your favorite cat so far? And why?

Well, review, favorite, and follow! Until next chapter!