-Chapter 7-
Honeybark opened her eyes, black space surrounded her, she turned around and there two fox-lengths away, stood a massive ginger tom.
Thunderstar.
She scrambled to her feet, almost spitting mad, "You sent me back how long ago and you only appear to me now?!"
Thunderstar looked at her calmly, "I couldn't risk you messing things up, in order to prevent StarClan from interfering I had to make those not part of the plan to believe you to be a regular ThunderClan cat. But now I will be able to visit you in dreams now as Firepaw will be receiving the agreed upon visions from your last life."
Her mind whirled, "You knew that there would be another me and you didn't warn me? Why would you think that was a good idea? If you want me to change things I need to know what I have to do to do exactly that. Having another me could get in the way of things. Now I have to replan everything because of this." she scowled.
Thunderstar suddenly stood over her and hissed, "I already did the best I could for you by sending you back. Some things are inevitable and no matter what you do you can only watch as they happen one way or another. Sending you back was a risk and the more I assist you the more the risk grows. So you should just keep your head down and focus on what you can do, I'll keep StarClan in line."
She forcibly calmed herself down. Hissing about everything won't solve the problems.
"Well what exactly should I do now? Do I have to avoid Firepaw? Or will it even matter in the end? When I die will I even be Firestar anymore or will I have completely turned into another cat?"
Thunderstar sighed, "I'm not sure what will happen although I have my suspicions. In the meantime, we are running out of time and I am not the only cat who wishes to see you." The ginger cat backed away and a rustling came from behind him.
A broad-faced gray she-cat walked into the space. Yellowfang?!
"How- why- what are you doing here? I thought I saved you? I warned you about Brokenstar! You were supposed to live this time, happily in ShadowClan!" Honeybark said.
Yellowfang sighed as she walked closer, "Some things cannot be changed. I was always meant to die whether at the hands of my son or in that fire. He was always my punishment, for breaking my vows as a medicine cat."
"Brokenstar killed you?"
"Yes. We drove him from the Clan. I revealed he murdered Raggedstar but I suppose for some my word wasn't enough. Some of the warriors left with him and returned after Nightstar was named the leader, though StarClan once again did not give him nine lives. He was never meant to be a leader after all, he only became one for the good of ShadowClan in this life and the last." Yellowfang rasped.
"I should've never interfered, if I left it alone you'd still be on your way to ThunderClan." the cat said sadly.
"If that was the case then many kits would have died in my place. I would rather be murdered a hundred times than live and watch kits be forced into battle! At least this time around, I died knowing I stopped what I could. I didn't just watch 3 moon old kits die from so-called 'training'." The old cat hissed.
Yellowfang took a deep breath. "I did not come here to debate about what you should've done. What's done is done. I came to warn you about Shadowclan. Runningnose has already taken Brokenstar to the Moonstone, and they are on their way back now. The same stubborn old cats gave him nine lives and he will use them just like he did the first time. He will drive cats to their death if you do not stop him. He already makes plans to expand his territory, always greedy that one."
"Will he go for WindClan again? Or will a different Clan be his target now?"
Yellowfang shook her head, "It's unclear at this time, too much in ShadowClan has changed, but you should be wary nonetheless. I heard about what you did with Tigerclaw. Be careful this does not put things in motion faster than they should be."
Thunderstar stepped forward. "Time is up. We will see you next time."
Honeybark felt her eyes grow heavy as the two cats faded into black.
Honeybark woke to a tongue rasping over her flank and head. She wearily opened her eyes feeling like they got glued shut. Her eyes landed on Speckletail, she was grooming her side, she felt another cat behind her and the molly craned her neck. Mousefur was curled up around her, licking her head.
The brown cat made eye contact, Honeybark watched as her eyes widened. Mousefur turned and quickly called out to Spottedleaf. The medicine cat came rushing across the den. Spottedleaf quickly bent down, "How are you feeling? You just collapsed when you came in the other day but the injuries you sustained in the fight weren't near bad enough to cause that."
Speckletail growled slightly, pushing in between the medicine cat and her kit, "Let her breathe for StarClan's sake, she just woke up."
Honeybark gently nuzzled her before sitting up all the way, shaking off both Mousefur and Speckletail, "Don't be angry at Spottedleaf, she's just doing her job." Honeybark rasped. Her throat was so dry, she glanced around the den before padding over to the little pool in the back. All three she-cats followed behind her worrying as she walked over.
Honeybark sighed, "I'm fine. I think I was just exhausted. I had my vigil last night and then immediately went on a patrol where it spiraled into a fight. I just needed rest and I guess my body was tired of me ignoring it."
Spottedleaf looked at her with doubt lingering in her amber eyes. Speckletail snorted, "Trust you to work yourself to the point of collapsing. If I catch you doing this again, I'll stuff you in the nursery where I can keep an eye on you."
Mousefur laughed at that before nosing her former apprentice, "I'm glad to see you're alright."
The brown molly glanced at Spottedleaf, "I'll leave you to Spottedleaf before she chases me out of the den. Good luck with that one, I'll come visit you soon if she decides to hold you hostage." Mousefur then whisked herself out of the den, leaving Honeybark alone with her adoptive mother and the medicine cat.
Spottedleaf stared Speckletail down for a long moment before the old queen sighed and gave her kit a final lick, before turning to leave. The pretty tortoiseshell watched her go and then turned to the young warrior.
"You were out for a full day. The battle was yesterday morning, and it's barely sunrise now, you slept for a long time." the medicine cat began.
"Tigerclaw was confined to camp and both Bluestar and Redtail have refused to explain why." She continued, "Tigerclaw is also keeping his silence. Do you know anything about that?"
Honeypaw held her tongue though she couldn't quite suppress the grimace that flitted across her face, if neither Bluestar or Redtail explained then it wasn't her place to talk about it.
"When can I leave then? If I was just tired I should be cleared to leave by today at some point?" Honeybark avoided her question. Spottedleaf looked at her for a long moment, before letting her change the subject.
"I checked you over while you were out and the worst damage was on your muzzle. The claws went rather deep, you'll have a nasty scar for sure. You also tore your scruff open again but I applied poultices to everything while you were out. I reapplied just before you woke up so technically you could leave now. Though I would like an explanation." Spottedleaf mewed giving her an unreadable look.
Honeybark nodded and started making her way toward the exit, throwing over her shoulder, "I'd talk to Bluestar about that explanation instead if I were you."
She pushed through the ferns, emerging into the camp, and blinked in the rising sun. The Clan was in full swing with cats leaving on what she assumed were patrols. Honeybark looked around camp before settling her hazel eyes on Tigerclaw. The massive tabby was crouching over by the elders' den, where they kept prisoners in her last life, and was staring directly at her, something undefinable burning in his amber eyes.
She felt her fur begin to bristle and forced it to lie flat, turning her eyes away from the tabby, not too far away from Tigerclaw, sat Redtail. Honeybark padded over to the deputy. The small tortoiseshell tom looked unsurprised to see her, she guessed Mousefur and Speckletail had already spread the word.
"What are you doing here? Did Spottedleaf already release you?" He questioned flicking his tail dismissively at Darkstripe and Willowpelt who stood before him. Willowpelt brushed against her reassuringly as she left, while Darkstripe gave her a nasty glare as he stalked after the pale molly. Honeybark shook her head, at the very least I can always trust Darkstripe to be a jerk.
"Yes," She answered the deputy, "I wasn't injured all that badly, I was just too tired apparently, and my body chose at that moment to make me rest." Honeybark said, looking him in the eyes. If he expected her to feel ashamed for what she did about Tigerclaw he had another thing coming.
Redtail just looked at her before glancing at Tigerclaw. He sighed, shaking his head before dismissing her with a flick of the tail. Honeybark hesitated for a second not believing he was just letting her go before darting away, not giving him a chance to regret it.
She hurriedly walked over to her mentor Mousefur, who had watched the entire interaction. "So what trouble did you get into? Did Tigerclaw do something? Bluestar summoned him as soon as Redtail entered her den. The three of them were in there for a while…" Mousefur fished for information.
Honeybark shrugged, refusing to answer. Mousefur sighed and nudged her, "Come on. Give me a little bite, for your old mentor's sake why don't ya?"
Honeybark shook her head, getting to her paws, "I can't tell you what I don't know. If you want answers so bad, why don't you talk to Bluestar about it."
Mousefur swatted the molly's ear gently with her tail, "Don't get all uppity just because you're a warrior now. I still remember when you were just a kit tripping over your own paws as you trailed behind me, so watch it."
The young warrior shook her head letting out a snort, "Yes, yes whatever you say, but I still can't tell you anything."
Mousefur sighed before nodding. The cream colored molly changed the subject, "So was I hallucinating the other day or did we really get a new apprentice? A kittypet at that?"
"Yes, while you were out getting into a fight with either Tigerclaw or RiverClan, maybe even both," Honeybark shot a glare at her former mentor. Mousefur ignored it, continuing, "Lionheart and Whitestorm brought a little orange kit back, apparently Bluestar extended an offer to join and he accepted. "
Mousefur snorts, "ThunderClan accepting kittypets? I never thought I'd see the day, but I have to admit, Firepaw, that's his name, really did a number on Longtail. You see Longtail had voiced what we were all thinking and," The brown molly laughed shaking her head.
"Poor Longtail got his ear all sliced up for his troubles. I guess the kittypet isn't as soft as we all imagined," Mousefur shot a glance at Honeybark, "Speaking of Longtail, I'm surprised he isn't hovering around you now. StarClan knows Spottedleaf had to drive him off a few times while you were out, always getting underfoot that one."
Honeybark rolled her eyes, "Longtail does not hover around me all the time, okay? He has a job to do just like the rest of us."
"By the way, where is the newcomer? I wanna get a look at him for myself," Honeybark questioned, trying to seem nonchalant about it. She wanted to see if that really was her or if something was different since she was technically Firepaw or at least what he will be, maybe just what he would've been.
Mousefur flicked her tail at the apprentices' den, "I haven't seen him yet and it's still early so I assume he's still in there."
"I'll just wait and see then." Honeybark decided. She would have to watch her younger self and make sure he didn't get in the way of her plans and maybe keep him out of trouble too. She still found it hard to believe that there were two of them, what did that mean for the future then? Will there be two Firestars in StarClan or would she completely merge into Honeybark and keep that name when she returns to the Silverpelt?
She was broken out of her thoughts when Graypaw came bounding out of the apprentices' den, the new flame colored cat following close behind as he barreled across the clearing.
Honeybark shook her fur out and took measured steps toward the two young cats, both practically still kits, she thought. It was hard to imagine what it was like being that young, even her most recent apprenticeship wasn't the same; she was mentally already an adult and she could barely remember her apprenticeship as Firepaw, other than the ShadowClan mess.
She met them as they came to a stop by Lionheart and Redtail who stood near the fresh-kill pile. When both the older warriors looked at her curiously, she simply flicked an ear at the new cat.
"I wanted to come see the new apprentice. I thought I might have imagined him when I fainted in the medicine den," Honeybark said, a little amusement seeping into her voice.
"I'm sure I must have scared him a bit, coming in covered in blood and dropping like a stone didn't make the best impression I bet," she looked the young cat over, that was definitely her old appearance, that bright coat and green eyes looked somewhat strange to see on another cat, even if it was technically the same cat. It was disconcerting to watch as Firepaw blinked and stared at her. She may be in a different body now, be a different cat, but she was Firestar first and seeing another version of that was almost hard to take in.
The cream colored cat shook her thoughts away and flicked her tail, "I'm Honeybark, it's nice to meet you. I hope you adjust quickly to the Clan, after all it's rather uncommon for a kittypet to join the 'wild cats' in the trees. Though don't be too worried I was only a few moons younger than you when I joined the Clan, and every cat here has accepted me as a full warrior. It just takes time, that's all."
Firepaw blinked at her awe and gratitude shining in his eyes at her pleasant attitude toward him. I don't know if I'll ever get used to that. Was I really like that? Just in awe of everything around me?
"Thank you, I hope I learn everything as fast as I can. I'm glad to see that you're alright, Spottedleaf said that she wasn't sure why you fainted but since you're walking around I guess that means you're okay!" The ginger cat said, tail swishing a little with excitement.
"I never would've guessed you weren't from the Clan. I just assumed I was the only one who wasn't born here."
Honeybark started, still unsure how to feel about seeing a younger Firestar, before shaking her head, this was Firepaw and no matter what happened in my past - his future was still unknown. I can't project myself onto him because from the moment I was sent back this Firepaw's destiny was altered.
"Don't worry about it, cats will talk but they'll get over it. So uh try not to hold it against them, they're all just a bunch of gossipers and if anyone really gives you trouble let me know and I'll tell either my mother, Speckletail or Spottedleaf. Both of which would give them a tongue lashing of a lifetime for bullying a kit." Honeybark mewed trying to give some reassurance to the new apprentice.
Redtail spoke up interrupting her advising session, "I was just about to send Graypaw and Firepaw out with Lionheart for a little patrol through the territory showing them around, do you want to accompany them?"
Honeybark was a little surprised, she had assumed that Bluestar would want to discuss what happened with Tigerclaw as soon as she woke up. Redtail gave her a knowing look, "Bluestar is out on patrol right now but I'm sure she'll want to speak with you once she's back. However, she's not due back for a while, and if you help Lionheart a bit I'm sure she won't mind. I'll let her know once she returns."
Honeybark dipped her head respectfully and led the way to the gorse tunnel pretending not to see Lionheart's questioning look. She climbed up the ravine and turned to wait for the golden tabby and apprentices, "So where are we headed?"
Lionheart took the lead and answered, "I was thinking about going over the boundaries by RiverClan first and circling around through Fourtrees and back along the ShadowClan border."
Honeybark kept pace beside him as he started running through the forest, "As long as we don't run into any RiverClan patrols - I think I've had my fill of those cats for a whole moon."
Lionheart chuckled, "I don't doubt it. And I bet they've had their fill of ThunderClan as well. Besides, we won't go too close to the border."
Honeybark threw a glance over her shoulder and watched as Firepaw and Graypaw struggled to keep up, Firepaw lagging a little further behind as the four cats raced along the forest floor. She didn't bother slowing down, he would have to work to build up his strength otherwise Firepaw would never make it out here. She would never take it easy on him, after all she remembered how it burned to have cats assume she couldn't do something as well as Clan born cats could.
The new warrior slowed to a trot as Lionheart came to a stop in front of her. Lionheart turned to speak to the apprentices, while she kept alert and scent marked a tree nearby.
"There is a Twoleg path here," murmured Lionheart. "Use your nose, Firepaw. Can you smell anything?"
She turned and watched as Firepaw lifted his nose, "A Twoleg has walked his dog along here, but they are long gone now," he mewed.
Honeybark nodded approvingly, "Do you think it's safe to cross?"
Firepaw sniffed again before replying, "Yes."
Lionheart nodded and the four cats crossed the sharp stones of the Twoleg path. Honeybark slowed down and allowed the two apprentices to pass her, bringing up the rear. She watched as Lionheart led the way to the Treecut place explaining to the two young cats, "Twolegs put these trees here. They cut them down with foul-smelling creatures which spew enough fumes to make a kit go blind. Then they take the fallen trees to the Treecut place that lies near here."
She shook her head as Firepaw stopped and tilted his head, "The treecut place will be silent for a few more moons, until green-leaf," she explained.
The cats continued on through the pine trees.
"Twoleg place lies in that direction," meowed Honeybark, flicking her tail in its direction. "I bet you can smell it from here, Firepaw, but today we will head the other way."
They quickly made their way over another Twoleg path and started coming up on the RiverClan border. Honeybark felt her hackles raise slightly as she uneasily looked across Sunningrocks toward the river. The young warrior heard Graypaw whispering behind her but she ignored it, focusing intently on the border. She shuffled her paws and shot a quick glance at Lionheart, he nodded and spoke up.
"This is the boundary between ThunderClan and RiverClan. RiverClan rules the hunting grounds beside the great river," he meowed. "Breathe deeply, Firepaw."
"That is the smell of RiverClan," Honeybark mewed, forcing herself to calm down. "Remember it well. It will be the strongest at the boundary, because their warriors will have scent marked along here."
Lionheart nodded before continuing, "We'll follow this boundary line, as it leads straight to Fourtrees."
The golden tabby set off quickly, leading the cats away from Sunningrocks.
Firepaw piped up, "What is Fourtrees?"
Graypaw began to explain but Honeybark cut them off, too paranoid about RiverClan to let them talk too loudly, "Quiet! We're still too close to the border."
They finished the walk to Fourtrees in silence and by the time they reached the top of the slope it was already sunhigh.
Lionheart began, "This is Fourtrees, where the territories of all four Clans meet. WindClan governs the high ground ahead of us, where the sun sets. You won't be able to catch their scent today - the wind is blowing toward them. But you'll learn it soon enough."
"And ShadowClan holds power over there, in the darkest part of the forest," Graypaw added, flicking his tail sideways. "The elders say that the cold winds from the north blow over ShadowClan cats and chill their hearts."
Honeybark flicked his ear with her tail, reprimanding him, "Now don't go scaring the poor thing, that's just a tale to tell kits to scare them into behaving."
Graypaw batted her tail away, and mockingly growled at her, "You're not that much older than me! Don't tell me what to do!"
The gray tom jumped at her, Honeybark just moved out of the way and watched him fly past. Lionheart shot them an amused look mixed with hints of exasperation. Honeybark sat down and neatly wrapped her tail around her paws, ignoring the rowdy apprentice.
Firepaw ignored them and instead focused on Lionheart, much more interested in the different Clans than their play fighting.
"So many Clans!" Firepaw exclaimed.
"Now you see why prey is so precious," meowed Lionheart. "Why we must fight to protect what little we have?"
"But that seems foolish! Why can't the Clans work together and share their hunting grounds, instead of fighting each other?" Firepaw suggested.
Honeybark took a sharp inhale, I forgot just how naive I was when I first joined. I didn't yet understand why what I said was so treasonous.
The cream cat gently explained, "You will learn in time why that is not possible. It would be considered treason to act on such thoughts. We act this way for a reason, which I am sure your mentor will explain to you whenever Bluestar decides on who it should be."
Lionheart nodded and looked at the young cat, "You speak from your heart, young Firepaw. This will make you a stronger warrior one day."
The golden tabby gestured with his tail, "The four Clans do come together peacefully, each full moon. We call it the Gathering. This is where they meet, the truce lasts for as long as the moon is full."
"In fact," Honeybark interjected, "There will be one tonight. The Gatherings are very important because they allow all the Clans to share information regarding certain dangers like foxes or badgers. It also lets us share news about births and deaths as well as new apprentices or warriors. We are under a truce each full moon but remember, any friendships you make are only temporary. Your loyalty must be to your Clan first and foremost."
Firepaw nodded, "I understand."
The cream colored molly nodded and looked over at Lionheart, "We should keep going."
Lionheart twitched an ear and led the way toward the ShadowClan border, not forgetting to instruct the newcomer along the way.
"We're traveling along ShadowClan's border. Take a deep breath and commit that scent to your memory, fresher scents mean that a ShadowClan patrol is in the area." The senior warrior explained, pointing with his tail toward the border.
As they neared the Thunderpath, Honeybark could faintly hear a monster racing closer, she heard Firepaw question, "What's that?"
Honeybark didn't bother to give a reply, a monster was already on the way. She knew that he would learn very quickly just how dangerous that unnatural pathway was.
The young apprentice curiously peered out at the gray stone, and Honeybark gently nudged Firepaw back as he got a little too close for her liking. She still wasn't sure if things would go catastrophically wrong because of her being here and she wanted to take precautions.
The cats all sat down and Honeybark watched the Thunderpath vigilantly until a loud roar sounded and a monster sped past, spewing filth into the air. She felt Firepaw's fur bristle as he leapt back, even further away from the path.
"Scared me the first time too," remarked Graypaw. "But at least it helps to keep ShadowClan warriors from crossing into our territory. The Thunderpath runs for many pawsteps along our border line. And don't worry; those monsters never seem to leave the Thunderpath. You'll be okay as long as you don't get too close."
"We should head back, I still have to meet with Bluestar and Redtail," Honeybark mewed, standing up and shaking her fur out.
Lionheart nodded, "You've seen all our boundaries now, but we'll avoid Snakerocks for now. An untrained apprentice would be easy prey for an adder and I bet you're getting tired, Firepaw."
Lionheart led the way as the four cats turned away from the Thunderpath, Honeybark letting the two apprentices in front of her, throwing one last glance across the border.
Honeybark had failed. Yellowfang had joined StarClan much sooner than last time. Everything she did was for naught and as the old medicine cat explained, some things are unavoidable, but all that did was make her more determined. I can't let what happens be in vain. I must stop Brokenstar from gaining traction at the Gathering tonight. If what Yellowfang said was true, then WindClan will soon be driven from their home, if they haven't been already.
The rest of the way home passed in relative silence, the two apprentices occasionally pointing something out to one another as they went along. Once they made it back to camp Honeybark's eyes found Tigerclaw still sitting out by the elders' den, where Yellowfang had to stay the first time around.
The cream cat let out a sigh before making her way to Bluestar's den. The leader was probably back by now and the molly knew she couldn't put off an explanation any longer.
She stood in front of the lichen covered den and let out a silent sigh before calling out, "Bluestar, it's Honeybark."
After a moment, Bluestar called her in. The blue-gray molly was sitting up near the back of the den, Redtail was already there and both cats watched as she made her way in. Honeybark padded silently into the den and took a seat a tail-length away from the two older cats.
Bluestar looked at her for a long moment, her blue eyes seem to pin her in place and see right through her. What she was looking for Honeybark didn't know and she didn't want to know what the leader saw as the young warrior met her gaze with a calm cultivated over a lifetime of leadership.
"I already informed Bluestar of what I witnessed that day on the border. Tigerclaw also gave his testimony while you were unconscious, however Bluestar would like your side of the story, as would I." Redtail started, breaking the silence in the den.
Honeybark glanced at him and saw a barely there hint of encouragement in his eyes. She took a deep breath before she began, "We had run into the RiverClan patrol and at first there was aggression but both Redtail and Oakheart talked it over and had decided to leave it up to the leaders of each Clan, we were turning to leave when out of the corner of my eye, I saw Tigerclaw lunge forward. He was aiming for one of the RiverClan warriors, one I didn't recognise."
"I didn't want this to devolve into a fight and so I knocked into him, forcing him to a stop but while everyone stood still in shock, he pushed me out of his way and this time he managed to scratch at one of the warriors," Honeybark continued, feeling vaguely uneasy as Bluestar just stared at her with an unreadable expression.
"After that it flew into a full blown fight. I had managed to chase off the warrior who jumped me and I saw Redtail fighting Stonefur and then Oakheart joined in. I decided to go help Redtail. I had watched for a moment unsure how to help when I noticed the rocks were a little too loose." Honeybark paused trying to recall everything she could.
"I remember seeing a small rock fall and I got worried and so I called out a warning to them." She narrowed her eyes as she spoke, "Redtail heeded my call and ran out but the RiverClan deputy couldn't get his feet under him. I decided to help him."
Bluestar interrupted, "Why would you do that? Help another Clan's deputy when in the middle of a border skirmish?"
Honeybark looked up and met her eyes, "I don't think any cat deserves to get crushed to death by rocks, RiverClan or not. I made a split decision to jump down and help him. I don't regret it and I refuse to be made to regret it. I fully believe I made the right choice and I'd do it again."
The leader nodded and flicked an ear, "Very well. Continue, how exactly did it end with you and Tigerclaw fighting?"
"After I got Oakheart out I ran as fast as I could to where I last saw Redtail. I found him with Tigerclaw, they seemed to be arguing or maybe just talking but I couldn't hear them clearly. I just jumped down and suggested we leave before more RiverClan cats arrive."
"That's when Tigerclaw turned on me. He accused me of getting in his way to "teach that mangy cat a lesson" and I defended myself saying that everyone had already agreed to leave it to the leaders," Honeybark mewed, the tip of her tail twitching as she told her story, recalling the rage she felt as she looked at the massive battle-scarred tabby.
"I guess he didn't like that and so he swiped at me. I remember seeing the light glint off of his claws but I didn't feel the actual hit until I made it back to camp, I was so angry. And well that's really all that happened, we made it to camp and Redtail ordered me to go to Spottedleaf where I fainted," she finished, gauging her leader's reaction to her side of the story.
Bluestar glanced at Redtail before speaking, "What you said coincides with what both Redtail and Tigerclaw described. Tigerclaw confessed that he was so amped up from the battle that he didn't mean to actually make contact with you when he lashed out. Tigerclaw is currently confined to camp while I decide on an appropriate punishment."
"What he did, while not unforgivable, is still highly inappropriate, especially considering he is a senior warrior and should know how to control himself by now." Bluestar said, she paused for a long moment before continuing.
"How would you punish him if you were in my position?"
Honeybark was taken aback by the question, I doubt she'll actually exile him right now cats get into scuffs all the time but maybe if he slips up again she'll recall this issue. Out loud she said, "I don't know, maybe just make him stay in camp?"
Bluestar flicked her tail, dismissing Honeybark, before turning to Redtail. Honeybark hesitated on her way out, "Um, Bluestar? Will you make an announcement? I've already fended off some cats asking questions, should I keep what happened to myself?"
Bluestar nodded, "I'll decide what to say about it, for now keep it quiet. Also before you go, I think I'll take you to the Gathering tonight you haven't been in a while and it'll do good to remind RiverClan what you did for them so get some rest before then."
Honeybark dipped her head respectfully and left, pushing her way out of the den. She threw a glance across to where Tigerclaw sat lazily watching her. Honeybark just looked back, I don't think he should be exiled. There might be a way to actually get through to him since his first murder was already interrupted he'll probably be more hesitant about trying to gain power that way.
She padded through the camp, and stopped by the fresh-kill pile grabbing a vole. She sat down by the nettle patch, next to Longtail. He glanced up and then did a double take, "I didn't know you were up, how are you? Spottedleaf wouldn't say much while you were out."
He sounded worried and looked her over with a careful gaze. Honeybark nudged him, "I'm fine now, I was just a little too tired that's all."
He gave her another long look before turning back to his own food. Honeybark watched him for a second before starting on her vole. She was a little flattered by his worry but she really was fine. They ate in silence and once he finished he turned to look at her.
"So how was the fight? Ravenpaw already made his way to the elders' den telling every cat who heard the story." Longtail mewed, leaning over to lick her ears.
"Ravenpaw? I thought Redtail told him to run? Did he seriously stay, I didn't see him when I got back the other day? Was he okay?" Honeybark asked, eyes widening a little in concern.
Longtail flicked his tail dismissively, "He's fine, just a scratch on his shoulder really. But back to you - how was the fight? Did you really save the RiverClan deputy?"
"I'm glad Ravenpaw's okay, I didn't see him during or after the fight so I had assumed he was sent back to camp." Honeybark said, holding still as Longtail helped untangle a matt on her shoulder.
"The fight was alright, the first battle at Sunningrocks was a lot worse than this one if I'm being honest but that's probably just because we lost the first one," she continued.
"And yeah, I wasn't about to stand and watch a cat get crushed by rocks just because we got into a border dispute. Lives are worth more than that in my opinion and I truly believe the code is on my side in this so…" Honeybark finished, leaning over to drag her tongue over the pale tabby's flank.
She hesitated before she asked, "Has Tigerclaw said anything to you about what happened? I know you guys talk sometimes and I was just wondering."
Longtail shook his head and kept quiet, just focusing on trying to get her fur to lay flat. The Honeybark let the subject drop and glanced toward the dark tabby, Tigerclaw had turned away from her and was watching Bluestar's den. She flicked an ear and refocused on Longtail, rasping her tongue over his ear.
As the two warriors lapsed into a peaceful silence a sudden weight pushing Honeybark forward broke it. The molly whipped her head around and saw Firepaw slowly rising to his paws, ears flattened in embarrassment, Honeybark looked past him and saw Graypaw doing a terrible job at suddenly being "busy".
She felt Longtail's fur start to bristle and right as he tried to spit out what she was sure would be an insult she slapped her tail over his mouth. Honeybark stared for a moment, eyes flicking back and forth between the two apprentices. As Firepaw opened his mouth probably to apologize, Honeybark burst into laughter and shook her head, "That Graypaw will never change will he?"
She called out to the gray cat, "You're not mad I already left the apprentices' den are you? I promise I'm not avoiding you - well at least not doing a good job at it."
She chortled, "And shame on you, using the new kit to do your dirty work."
Graypaw scampered over relief in his eyes at the molly's light hearted teasing and rescued the orange apprentice, "I would never send another cat to do my own sabotage! Where's the fun in that? I was just demonstrating a fight move."
The gray kit nudged Firepaw out of his way as he jumped on Honeybark. He tried to cuff her ears but the cream molly just sat up and laughed as the kit slid off her back. "Give it a few moons and the next time you jump on me you might actually be able to pin me down."
Longtail chimed in, "And what fight move even was that? I surely don't know any that cause you to tumble into a Clanmate."
Graypaw flicked his ears, "That might have been my fault… in my defense though it looked easy when I saw Sandpaw do it."
Honeybark eyed Firepaw, "You alright? That crash probably hurt you more than me."
Firepaw hurriedly nodded and looked up at her relief and gratitude clear in his green eyes. "Yes, I'm fine. Sorry for bumping into you. I really didn't mean to. I just kinda lost my balance and the next thing I know I'm flying through the camp."
"Don't worry about it, I just barely became a warrior so I understand how it is." Honeybark twitched her tail in a friendly manner before nudging Longtail as she spotted his mouth opening again. She had a feeling that he didn't have anything nice to say to the young cat. "Just be a little more aware from now on … and please both of you at least try to keep it to the Sandy Hollow."
Graypaw pressed against Firepaw and nodded before turning and leading the way back to the apprentices' den. Firepaw followed with a final glance back before getting distracted by Lionheart padding up to Graypaw.
Honeybark looked back to Longtail. She sighed as he shot her an annoyed look.
"Look Longtail, I know you and Firepaw got off on the wrong paw but I think that you should be the bigger cat here and try to move on, or at least don't antagonize him as much as you'd like. I think since Bluestar let him join she must see something in him that we don't."
Longtail looked askance and meowed indignantly, "He's a kittypet! What could she possibly see in him? I don't like him and I won't be convinced until he proves that he even has the potential to not go running back to Two-legs as soon as leaf-bare hits."
"Have you forgotten that you and Spottedleaf found me all those moons ago? I'm not Clanborn. Do you question my loyalty?" Honeybark meowed, watching as Longtail avoided meeting her eyes.
Honeybark sighed, "I think that we need to show patience with him regardless of whether you think he'll leave or not. Right now he is a ThunderClan apprentice and I'll treat him as such.. I recommend you do the same otherwise you could potentially create problems out of nothing every time he so much as breathes in your direction. You already voiced everyone's thoughts and I appreciate that but he proved himself and we need to acknowledge that even if we disagree. Besides, Bluestar has already spoken and the leader's word is law."
Longtail stayed quiet and twitched his tail back and forth. After a long moment the pale tabby nodded, "If you say so, I suppose we don't need to force him out, once a kittypet always a kittypet and one day he'll go running back even without us chasing him out so we might as well wait. You were never a kittypet so it's not the same and besides you were too young to know anything different than Clan life."
The cream cat knew that was probably as far as she could push for today. Someone's thoughts can't be changed by force, only given new perspectives over time. Honeybark brushed her pelt against his and led the way into the warriors' den, "I think I'll go nap for a bit," she called over her shoulder, leaving the pale tabby behind.
She pushed her way in and settled in her nest. She stared out for a long while before finally closing her eyes. She didn't know what to do about Tigerclaw now. She didn't even know where to begin. Sometimes the only thing to do is to allow things to play out before trying anything.
She felt like she had just blinked when Longtail was shaking her awake to get her up for the Gathering. Honeybark sat up and quickly groomed her pelt into place before pushing her way out of the warriors' den.
Redtail was sitting at the foot of Highrock and in front of him were all the cats chosen for the gathering milling about. Spottedleaf had already exited her den and was making her way to the deputy. The rest were standing around just waiting now for the signal to head out.
A good collection of cats were going; the older apprentices, Sandpaw and Dustpaw; a couple warriors, Runningwind, Darkstripe, Longtail and herself and of course a few elders, Smallear, Patchpelt and Dappletail.
Bluestar pushed her way out of her den and with a glance up at the sky led the way out of the camp. Honeybark fell in step with Longtail in the middle of the group and her thoughts were full of worry of what would happen tonight. Yellowfang had warned her that Brokenstar was the leader and she wasn't sure what she should do tonight.
The trek to Fourtrees was mostly silent as the Clan followed Bluestar. They jumped over the stream and followed as she ran to the top of the slope, she waited longer than usual before flicking her tail and sending the Clan rushing down like a flood.
Honeybark quickly took stock of which Clans were already here, so far it seemed only RiverClan had arrived, which made her a little nervous remembering Yellowfang's warning. She forced herself to calm down, Brokenstar probably won't try to chase off WindClan for a couple more moons while he solidifies his power in ShadowClan.
Honeybark sighed and decided to wander around the clearing. She may have gotten into a number of scraps with the other Clan but tonight was a truce and she refused to bring territory disputes here unless Bluestar said something on the Great Rock. She looked around through the RiverClan cats and sighed in relief when she spotted Oakheart alive and well. In her last life she never met the RiverClan deputy but she had heard stories about what a great cat he was and she was hoping to meet him at some point.
But not tonight she decided as RiverClan cats glared at ThunderClan, I suppose everyone is still too touchy about the battles. Honeybark shook it off and kept wandering until she circled back to her own Clan picking a seat next to Dappletail as she spoke with a RiverClan elder.
Honeybark stared at the Great Rock lost in thought, I hope the other's arrive soon, I need to speak with a ShadowClan cat - maybe Runningnose will speak with me. A soft mew broke her out of her thoughts and she turned, a pale blue-gray molly stood behind her. Mistystar! She looks so young!
"You're the one who saved Oakheart right?" Mistystar - no she was still a warrior here- Mistyfoot, questioned.
Honeybark nodded, "Yes I'm Honeybark, I didn't really save him I just helped him to paws is all."
Mistfoor shook her head, "I appreciate your tact but that's not what Oakheart said. He said you practically dragged him out from under the rocks and I wanted to thank you. Oakheart's my father and I don't know what I'd do without him."
She hesitated before she continued, "I hope you don't take this the wrong way but I wanted to know why you bothered. You were in the middle of a fight and you saved an opposing Clans deputy instead of letting things play out, I don't understand no matter how thankful I am you choose what you did I just want to know."
Honeybark sighed and looked thoughtfully at the gray molly, "I didn't want him to die like that. Besides the code says that a warrior doesn't kill without reason and I think that just standing and watching a cat die when the death is unjust and preventable is just as bad as murdering him myself."
Hooneybark twitched her whiskers and a hint of amusement seeped into her tone, she teased the riverClan warrior, "Besides I heard all about how charming and honorable he is - for a RiverClan cat. It seemed a waste, that's all."
Mistyfoot rolled her eyes at that last part and snorted, "Are you saying you saved my father because you thought he was cute."
"Hey now I didn't say that I said that, I just heard rumors that he was a nice cat okay? Mainly from some WindClan mollies so if you need to watch out for anyone I'd keep my eye on them." She tilted her head forward a bit, "They seemed rather feisty too so maybe your dad needs to watch out for them too."
Mistyfoot seemed rather taken aback and a hint of doubt filled her blue eyes. Honeybark held her gaze for a moment before she broke into loud laughter unable to hold a serious face anymore. "Ah you should have seen your face! I'm not interested in your dad alright but I wasn't lying about those WindClan cats I swear!"
Mistyfoot let out a soft laugh as well, relief clear in her eyes at the ThunderClan cat's lightheartedness. Honeybark gently nudged her, "Don't worry so much about it. I'm not going to go around spreading rumors about how I single handedly held up a boulder for Oakheart to escape. I wasn't really going to talk about it if I'm honest, I don't really see the point in bragging about a fight that never should have happened."
"So it's true that both the deputies agreed to leave it to the leaders?" Another cat chimed in, it was the elder that Dappletail was speaking with. Honeybark glanced at Dappletail and shook her head, "It's not really my place to talk about it but I'm sure that no one would lie about something like that."
Dappletail shook her head at Honeybarks subtle admittance and ignored it, catching the elders attention once again. Mistyfoot's ears perked up and she turned just as WindClan came rushing into the clearing.
"Well I suppose I should go find those cats you told me about to make sure they stay away from my father." Mistyfoot mewed whiskers twitching in amusement as she dipped her head and turned to walk away. Honeybark rolled her eyes and waved her tail in farewell. She also stood up and shook her hindlegs out before walking over to WindClan. Before she could make it all the way across, ShadowClan appeared on top of the slope.
Honeybark quickly searched through the ranks and found Runningnose as he padded over to the other medicine cats. She slunk through the cats and came up to them right as Tallstar called for the Gathering to begin. She huffed in frustration and sat down to avoid drawing too much attention.
She looked at Brokenstar standing up on the Great Rock and the tip of her tail twitched revealing her uneasiness. She focused on him the entire time and barely noticed what Tallstar said, her focus was broken however when Bluestar stepped forward.
"ThunderClan is prospering well and we are pleased to announce that Honeypaw has now become a warrior taking on the name Honeybark." A chorus of congratulatory mews spread through the clearing loudest from ThunderClan and surprisingly RiverClan.
She felt a zing of pride ripple its way through her fur, in her last life there was always too much chaos going on for anyone to care about her promotions. It was a nice change. She held her head up high and kept a steady gaze on the leaders on the Great Rock.
Bluestar continued, "We also would like to speak with you Crookedstar about Sunningrocks, RiverClan keeps trespassing on ThunderClan territory and enough is enough. These battles already caused one rock slide, could your cats really survive another? I suggest that you keep your cats on your side of the river."
Crookedstar twitched his tail and his eyes narrowed at Bluestar's words. He sat for a moment before nodding. "Let's further this discussion at the next Gathering I will discuss with my senior warriors."
Bluestar nodded and stepped back, leaving room for another leader to speak. Crookedstar stepped forward, "RiverClan is doing well the river is fast and the fish are plenty. I am also pleased to announce a new warrior, Silverpaw is now Silverstream."
There was a round of congratulations at that and Crookedstar paused before he continued, "I would also like to give my thanks to a ThunderClan warrior. During a border dispute, this cat put her life on the line to assist my deputy out from a rockslide. Honeybark thankyou and congratulations on becoming a warrior. I bring this up because I feel like such actions deserve acknowledgement, Oakheart also sends his regards as well."
Honeybark felt her pelt brun with embarrassment as the RiverClan leader called her out. She never thought he would say something about what she did and it made her somewhat uncomfortable. She twitched her tail and kept a steady gaze on the Great Rock not wanting to meet anyone's eyes.
The RiverClan leader stepped back at that and finally Brokenstar stepped forward.
"As some of you may have realized I, Brokenstar have been made leader of ShadowClan. A few moons before, Nightstar had announced his decision to exile me at the word of our medicine cat, Yellowfang. That medicine cat made up a false vision about me and pinned my father's murder on me. This was obviously false as my father was hit by a monster on the Thunderpath and not even StarClan could save him. I am proud to announce I have received my nine lives and I am looking forward to building a strong new ShadowClan."
The new leader stepped back finishing his explanation. The clearing was silent until Tallstar spoke, "Congratulations, I regret to learn about your circumstances but I am sure that ShadowClan will do well under your guidance."
With that Tallstar leaped down and made his way ot his clan. Honeybark quickly stood up and approached Runningnose, "I'm so sorry to hear about Yellowfang I only met her a few times but I always thought she was one of the good ones."
Runningnose shifted uncomfortably but Honeybark pressed on ignoring Spottedleaf's annoyed hiss, "I thought that since Brokenstar was exiled that meant that the Clan thought he did murder his father why would the story change now all of the sudden? It's rather obvious to even non-medicine cats whether a cat gets hit by a monster or gets his throat slashed. Also why would he kill Yellowfang rather than just banish her?"
Runningnose narrowed his eyes at her words, "What goes on in ShadowClan is none of your business. You need to keep your warriors in check, Spottedleaf."
Honeybark shook off Spottedleaf's tail and continued, "Don't you remember what happened all those moons ago? Do you really believe that Yellowfang would ever do what Brokenstar claims? When that cat leads you down the wrong path and forces you to break the warrior code I want you to remember that we tried to warn you."
Honeybark twirled around and left stalking across the clearing tail twitching angrily. She heard Spottedleaf apologize swiftly before after her. Honeybark could practically feel Spottedleaf's glare burning a hole in her pelt but she ignored it speeding up to a trot to catch up with the Clan as they started to make their way out of the clearing.
"Honeybark," A voice called her name, she briefly turned and made eye contact with Mistyfoot. The pale gray molly waved her over with her tail, Honeybark threw a glance at Spottedleaf before trotting over.
"What's up?" Honeybark mewed as she drew closer to the RiverClan warrior. Mistyfoot flicked an ear at a cat next to her. A familiar bracken colored tom was sitting there and he nodded at the young warrior.
"I just wanted to thank you for the other day. I wasn't quite able to get my paws underneath me in time so thank you for pulling me out." Oakheart said keeping a steady gaze on the young molly.
Honeybark awkwardly shuffled her paws, "It wasn't really a big deal I'm sure if any other cat had seen it they would've done the same. I'm glad to see that you're alright though, I left pretty quick after the rocks fell." She dipped her head respectfully and bounded off before she was left behind by the rest of her Clan, the soft laughter of the father daughter pair following after her.
She caught back up with the Clan and carefully avoided Spottedleaf not wanting to explain her behavior toward Runningnose. She ended up running in between Longtail and Smallear and she kept low to the ground trying to avoid the medicine cat's sharp gaze.
The trek home seemed to stretch on until finally they arrived at the ravine, Honeybark quickly bounded down and rushed into the warriors' den, Longtail trailed after her at a steadier pace. By the time he arrived she had already curled herself up in her nest and was watching the entrance. The cream cat watched as LOngtail sighed before settling down next to her pressing his side to her, "I don't know what's got you so riled up but let's deal with it in the morning. It's been a long day," He rasped his tongue over her ear before curling up.
She listened to his steady breathing and allowed it to lull her to sleep, she'll go apologize to Spottedleaf tomorrow. She wanted to clear her head of anger before confronting the medicine cat knowing she was in for an earful. The last thing she thought was of poor Yellowfang, always bearing someone else's sins.