Thornstar's Decision

by Thornflash

Spiritclan is left without a leader when their beloved Mysticstar is killed in battle with SpiritClan's mortal enemy, FlameClan. Young clan deputy Thornflash is suddenly faced with the responsibilities of leading a clan. Will Thornflash be the successful leader of SpiritClan? Or will his many secrets and a new forbidden relationship be his downfall?

2. Chapter 2

Chapter 2

Thornflash stood up and stretched his cramped muscles, savoring the feel of the morning sun on his cold fur. Leaning down, he gave his leader one last lick between the ears and a murmured "goodbye" before he stood back and let the elders carry Mysticstar's body away.

"Thornflash, are you ready?"

Thornflash turned to see Fernleaf, the medicine cat, standing in front of him. Thornflash tilted his head, confused.

"Ready? What do you mean?"

"Thornflash, you haven't forgotten have you? You must go to the Starstream to receive your 9 lives!" Fernleaf watched him with an exasperated look on her face. Thornflash felt a jolt of excitement despite all that had happened.

"The Starstream! Of course! Just let me tell Leapingbreeze that she's in charge while I'm gone and I'll meet you at the camp entrance." Fernleaf nodded and Thornflash trotted over to a golden she-cat sharing a rabbit with Willowmist. Leapingbreeze looked up.

"Hello Thornflash."

"Hi, Leapingbreeze. Fernleaf and I are going to the Starstream so I can receive my 9 lives. Would you mind looking after the camp while I'm gone?"

"Sure! I'll start sending out patrols now." The black spotted she-cat leapt to her paws and bounded off. Thornflash purred as he watched the eager cat go. Willowmist purred as well, watching her deputy and soon to be leader with glowing blue eyes. Thornflash turned back to Willowmist.

"I better get going. See you when I get back." He turned away and started to trot over to Fernleaf.

"Good luck!" Willowmist called after him. Thornflash waved his tail to show he heard and then followed Fernleaf through the tunnel. He cast a final glance back over as shoulder at his camp, knowing that the next time he addressed them he wouldn't be a normal warrior anymore, but their leader. He felt a sudden flash of fear and looked to Fernleaf for encouragement. The tortoiseshell gazed steadily back at him, her eyes full of trust and confidence in him. Immediately Thornflash felt better and he bounded forward.

"Come on! We need to get there before moonhigh!"