A/N - Now I'll be honest. Writing that last chapter got very boring (or rather, that first half of "The Kits")

This second half of "The Kits", however, was extremely fun to write! Very cute interaction that I've been looking forward to.

Although, at the same time, writing the dialogue was sooo haaaard. I kept forgetting how old the characters in this chapter are, so I had to cut down on the bloody exposition dumps and the use of "big words".

Disclaimer: Warriors is owned by Erin Hunter/HarperCollins Publishers LLC

…

The Kits: Part Two

…

Fireheart stopped, sniffing the trunk of a tree before padding lost throughout the forest thicket. The red sky of the setting sun was now a dark shade of blue, illuminated by stars and a full moon as the night of a Gathering always was.

This would be the first Gathering Fireheart wouldn't attend since becoming a warrior. He didn't mind, though. At this moment, he found he'd rather be alone than anything.

Stumbling through some more bushes, the ginger tom continued searching for the moss that Speckletail had ordered him to find. He would pause every once in a while, looking behind a tree or under some rocks, hoping to lay his eyes upon a soft green patch of the stuff, but alas, his luck was not so potent.

He'd found quite a bit just outside of the camp, but that's where it stopped. The amount had been meager, so he tried to find more. But StarClan themselves must've ordered every remaining patch to shrivel up because he could not locate a single patch from then on.

After going so long without a single shred of it, Fireheart began to grow more frustrated. Looking around yet another stump, he once again found nothing.

Throwing his head back in irritation, the ginger growled to himself.

Stupid moss. Where could it be?

Fireheart had been looking for what seemed like ages. The sun had set quickly once he'd left ThunderClan camp, just as Whitestorm said. Since then he hasn't been able to find a single speck of moss.

Although, despite his frustration, this freedom of being alone in the woods was something to make up for it. It happened rarely now - he never thought that time away from his clanmates would be something he'd take for granted.

After looking behind yet another tree for moss, and ultimately finding nothing, Fireheart quickly felt himself growing anxious. Though he was "free", he still had a job to do. If he failed said job, then well, that would guarantee his loss of freedom.

Straining his ears, Fireheart could hear the sounds of flowing water. He knew - if he simply were to poke his head out of the undergrowth, then the river would be in his sights.

Moss always grew near the river, he suddenly remembered. He recalled how he'd fetch some for Yellowfang when he cared for her all those moons ago.

Yes, of course, he could recall that - every apprentice is taught to get moss from near the river. It was that simple! Fireheart knew he could not return to camp empty-pawed; No cat would ever let him hear the end of it - how he'd failed a task even a newborn kit could do.

After stumbling around one more tree, Fireheart released a drawn-out groan. Frowning, he looked toward the river.

Perhaps I'm going to have to search over there…

He turned towards the tree again, as if expecting the same tree to suddenly have moss on it. He frowned.

But, it's Newleaf, right? So where's all the blasted moss in this forest?!

A faint scurrying noise quickly pulled him from his thoughts.

Perking his ears, he lifted his nose.

Was that… prey? His eyes darted around. Speckletail said nothing regarding hunting for himself, although he could vaguely recall Tigerstar stating how he could 'never hunt for himself again' at some point.

Fireheart hardly bothered to remember that - having forcibly blocked it from his mind. Though, it was Newleaf. Prey was bountiful by now. Surely no one would miss a small mouse?

Thinking more intimately at the prospect of fresh, non-scrapped prey, Fireheart's mouth began to water. His stomach growled as if to cheer him on.

Working his nose, Fireheart desperately tried to pick up the scent of prey, slinking through the bushes as he did so. His ears perked to the side - the scurrying noises suddenly grew louder.

Fireheart was soon shooting his open, turning wildly as he saw the thorn bush beside him rustle.

What the-

His thoughts were quickly interrupted by a yowl. Fireheart gasped in total shock - the 'prey' he'd been trying to find suddenly lunged through the bushes at him!

Fireheart saw faintly a pelt of gray as it barreled into him, forcing the breath out of his lungs. He hit the ground with a hiss of pain, feeling a pair of sharp claws suddenly grip his shoulder. In his daze, Fireheart could hear a young, triumphant voice.

"Ahah!"

Fireheart blinked a few times, sniffing the air. Almost immediately, he could recognize the smell.

Riv- RiverClan? He thought with alarm. RiverClan invaders?!

He whipped his head, peering above him with a hiss. However, Fireheart soon dropped his jaw, as he was now able to get a good look at his assailant.

Smirking at him, a fluffy, silver she-cat raised her head with pride.

"I caught myself a ThunderClan cat!" they said with glee. Fireheart narrowed his eyes. This wasn't a warrior - this was a kit!

A… very heavy kit at that.

Fireheart watched the slender she-kit swing her head away from him.

"Hey, Stormkit, come look!"

Fireheart blinked again.

Stormkit? As if on queue, Fireheart could hear the scrambling of branches to his side.

"F-feather- Ouch!" a slightly deeper voice could be heard wailing - one that was also very much a kit's. Fireheart watched the kit atop him gasp.

"Oh, no, Stormkit!" she said, before hopping off of him. Fireheart lay shell-shocked for a moment, still processing whatever it was that'd just happened.

Stormkit... RiverClan scent…

Fireheart's head pounded as he raised himself to his paws. His side was throbbing from where the she-kit had tackled him. He was in awe - how could a kit knock him over like that? Had he really become so frail due to the neglect from his clan?

Fireheart stumbled to his paws, hearing the sounds of a struggle nearby. Shaking his fur, he looked towards the two kits.

The one who bowled him over - Fireheart knew it had to be Stormkit's sister, Featherkit - was pulling on her brother's scruff, as he flailed about helplessly within the thorn bush Fireheart had seen rustling before.

Were they hiding in there? Fireheart thought, still in shock. Stormkit suddenly wailed.

"Featherkit- Oww! Stop! That hurts!". Featherkit released him with a huff, all while panting for breath. She furrowed her brow in frustration.

"Oh, you're such a frogbrain! I told you to watch out for these prickly bushes!" she said. Stormkit shot her a look.

"You never said we were gonna jump through one!"

Fireheart twitched his whiskers, gazing upon the two with awe.

What in the name of StarClan are these two doing here? He soon thought to himself.

Watching as the two kits continued to ignore him, Fireheart suddenly felt offended.

They just jumped me, but now I'm clear as air?

Fur bristling, the ginger tom growled, raising his voice at the two kits.

"What is going on here!?" His shout echoed. Instantly, the two kits ducked their heads, before whipping their heads around in fear.

"Ah, frogscat…" Featherkit muttered. Fireheart stalked towards them, causing the kits to sheepishly lower themselves into the earth. He huffed - these were the cats who'd just posed atop him?

"You two! What in StarClan's name are you kits doing here?" he barked, voicing the sole question on his mind. Feathertail gazed at him with fear, before grinning innocently.

"Uh, well. Funny you ask, Mr. ThunderClanner, we were just… uh," she stammered, looking to Stormkit, who was equally speechless. "Passing through?"

Fireheart curled his lip.

"You attacked me!" he stated angrily. Featherkit bristled, stammering to think of a response.

"W-well… you scared us!" she said. Fireheart tilted his head, amused.

"Me? Scary?" he said. Fireheart was no threat to any cat, no matter how much Tigerstar said otherwise. He was a malnourished, half-groomed mess of a tom who hardly ever gets a good night's sleep anymore.

Behind them, Stormkit could be heard trying to get his sister's attention, all the while struggling to pull his hind out from the thorns.

"Psst, Featherkit, can we -"

Fireheart snapped his gaze onto him, shooting the other kits a look of disapproval.

"You too, Stormkit?"

"U-uh," the kit stuttered, grinning weakly. "Nice night for a stroll, am I right?"

Fireheart said nothing in response, simply staring at both of them for a few seconds.

This cannot be happening right now.

He shook his head.

"Okay, look. I don't have the slightest clue as to what you two are doing here, but you need to go home right this instant!"

To his dismay, Featherkit only lifted her head challengingly.

"We're on an important mission!" she said, eyes gleaming. "And you aren't gonna stop us. Look how skinny you are! We'll make fish food out of you."

Fireheart lifted a brow toward her

"And your brother?" He gestured his tail toward the still struggling tom-kit. Featherkit spared him an awkward glance before quickly returning her glare.

"I can still take you on," she growled, unsheathing her claws as she dropped into a crouch. Fireheart flicked an ear at her nervously.

She's got spirit. He thought, admiring her determination.

Frowning, he sat still - disregarding the kit's amateur attempt at a fighting crouch - before clearing his throat.

"I don't know what 'mission' you're going on about…" He said, before giving her a knowing look. "But doubt your father would like his kits attacking his best friend."

He saw as Featherkit's eyes began to widen, the words catching her off-guard.

Fireheart met her curious gaze, all the while thinking to himself. Honestly, I don't even know if Graystripe still cares about me, but they don't need to know that.

Featherkit appeared stumped, slightly dropping her crouch.

"Best… what?"

"Maybe you don't remember," Fireheart continued. "But Featherkit, I happen to know your family quite well. I was friends with of your parents - both of them. I was even at your birth."

"W-wait," Featherkit interrupted. Her gaze softened now into one of pure curiosity. She said nothing for a few seconds, her gaze sweeping over him once again. Studying him - analyzing his pelt, claws, and everything in-between.

Then, suddenly, she released an excited gasp. "You're that kittypet Daddy told us about!"

That Fireheart lifted his brow towards. So they really don't remember their time in ThunderClan. He thought with remorse. But, at least it seems they know me?

Featherkit whipped her head around.

"Hey, Stormkit, look! He's a good ThunderClanner!" she called. Stormkit whimpered in response, pulling himself loose of another thorn that'd snagged onto his fur.

"I'm- ouch. Ah, Featherkit, that's great and all, but," he stopped, looking at her with desperation. "C-can you help me?"

"Oh!" Featherkit responded, suddenly concerned. She turned back to face Fireheart, now more hesitant than before.

"Hey, mister-" she stopped, squinting at him. "Oooh, he told me this before. Uh, what was it - Lionfart?"

"Fireheart," he responded, grumbling. He watched the small she-kit's eyes light up.

"Oh right, that's your name!" she chirped, before looking bashful. "Graystripe told me once, but I… forgot."

Fireheart rolled his eyes. Definitely Graystripe's kit.

Featherkit shuffled her paws embarrassed, seeing his reaction.

"So, anyway, can you help me pull my brother out?" Her tail lifted to gesture behind her. "Heh, you know how clumsy they can be sometimes. Such frog-brains, right?"

"Hey!" Stormkit hollered, laying at an odd angle due to all his squirming. "This was all your ide-"

"Well, can you? Pleeease?" Featherkit pressed, cutting off her brother.

Fireheart looked between the two kits, feeling a sense of worry start to grow in his stomach. Oh, how was he gonna explain all of this to Tigerstar?

"Yes, I will help you," he replied. "But only if it means you go straight home afterward."

Featherkit's pleading look turned into a frown. She lashed her tail disappointedly, puffing her cheeks.

"Grr, fine. Our plan is ruined now anyway," she responded in an angry mumble.

Nodding, Fireheart made his way over to Stormkit, with Featherkit padding closely behind. Stormkit looked at him pleadingly, as if begging not to hurt him too much.

Fireheart huffed. He never usually got stuck in thorn bushes, but if he'd learned anything from that strange forest fire dream given to him a quarter-moon ago, frantically struggling didn't seem to work very well.

Grabbing Stormkit by his scruff, and with Featherkit watching eagerly, Fireheart slowly began to pull him out of the bush. He felt the kit wince in pain as his pelt was torn from each branch. Fireheart grunted - the kit was a lot heavier than he looked. He was large even by RiverCan's standards.

Though he worked at a snail's pace, Fireheart knew it was necessary. Slow movement and a good foothold were required in this case. He had both, while Stormkit had neither. They were lucky he'd been there, otherwise, Featherkit probably would've gotten her brother even more stuck.

With a calculated heave, Fireheart finally plucked the kit out of the prickled shrubbery. Stormkit stumbled for a few steps, shaking his fur profusely, although a few thorns remained stuck in his thick pelt.

After a few licks to his fur, Stormkit turned to Fireheart with a grateful expression.

"Thanks, Fireheart. That wasn't fun at all."

"I'm glad you're all right," Fireheart replied with a stern look. "And now that your little plan is foiled, I will be escorting you back to RiverClan - where I hope your clanmates will see us and take you home. I don't have time to be dealing with this," he added, unamused.

"But…" Featherkit sounded dismayed, furrowing her brow. "Nrgh, we worked so hard to make it this far! I don't wanna just give up!"

Fireheart glared at her.

"This is not a debate. I'm not arguing with kits, and besides, if you refuse to listen, then I'll just run back to camp and tell every single cat I find about you." He leered even harder towards the she-kit. "I know this forest inside and out - you won't be able to catch me."

Featherkit looked at him in dismay, lashing her tail back and forth, before ducking her head in disappointment.

"Hmph… I guess you're right."

"Come on then," Fireheart urged, hoping they wouldn't cause any more problems than they already had. Pushing the two of them with his nose, Fireheart led them toward the river.

The two kits followed, heads down, whispering to each other. Fireheart didn't bother to listen. As long as they were behind him, he didn't care what they did.

The group stopped, coming to the river banks. Fireheart turned his head, remembering which way the Twoleg bridge was. He knew it was close, intending on using it cross. There was no use in trying to swim given how rough the current was.

He trudged forward along the banks, the kits quickly padding behind, as if it was a silent agreement amongst them to head for the bridge.

Not even five seconds later, Featherkit could suddenly be heard releasing a groan.

"Aww, this stinks," she mumbled. "I had such a good plan too. Mosspelt said every clan goes to a Gathering, whatever that is, so we would've snuck out without being spotted. Then-"

"There are still cats in the camp, you know," Fireheart interjected, shaking his head. "Besides, kits are not supposed to be on any missions."

"It was going fine until you showed up," she said with a huff.

"Nevertheless-" Fireheart said, before eyeing her. "Wait, did you… swim over here?"

"No, we took the bridge," Stormkit said, peering toward the wild current rushing beside them.

"Oh?" Fireheart looked relieved. "Well, good, because we're going to use it again. Maybe your clanmates have tracked your scent there by now."

Plus, the river looks unusually rough today. He thought. For a second there, he was worried the kits had somehow managed to swim through such a rough current. Fireheart doubted they even knew how to swim at all.

Sounding excited, Featherkit went along with her brother.

"Ya, they can track our scent all they want, but we were so sneaky they didn't even see us leave," she said, proud of the fact. "Not even the prey in ThunderClan noticed us!"

"I see," Fireheart mused. "And, tell me, Featherkit. What could have possibly made doing all of that worth it?"

Featherkit looked at him bewildered as if he'd just asked the dumbest question she'd ever heard.

"We had to get revenge for RiverClan of course!" The kit exclaimed, eyes burning with passion. "Nobody scars our leader and gets away with it. You squirrel-chasers need to be taught a lesson!"

Fireheart, startled by her sudden volume, looked at her puzzled.

"What?" he blurted, processing what she'd just said. "Featherkit… I'm sorry that Tigerstar attacked your clan, but you cannot be doing this. You're only kits!" Fireheart's voice grew more frantic. "Oh, by the stars, what were you thinking? Graystripe has to be worried sick about you!"

"Father? He'd be fine with us visiting, won't he? He says we used to live there," Featherkit said, unbothered by Fireheart's reaction. "Besides, he was sleeping because he's super lazy. What he doesn't know won't hurt him, right?"

Fireheart stopped his train of thought, shooting her a look.

That's basically my reasoning for not telling Whitestorm everything I know. He thought. But- no, no. This is different. My situation is serious, unlike this nonsense!

"Uncle Fireheart?" Stormkit's voice could barely be heard as Fireheart perked his ears toward him. "Graystripe says you're ThunderClan prisoner, so you must hate them like we do, right?"

Fireheart only caught half of what he said.

"Uncle?" he echoed, looking at the kit strangely.

"O-oh, sorry. I got confused since Cloudpaw always talks about you and calls you Uncle Fireheart since, well you know, you're his uncle and everything."

Fireheart stopped, his eyes locking onto Stormkit. He stuttered, his voice almost a whisper.

"What-" He turned his head slowly. "Did you just say… Cloudpaw?"

Stormkit suddenly stopped as well, becoming wide-eyed as he quickly realized.

"Oh, whoops. I probably shouldn't have said that," he scolded himself, looking away.

Fireheart didn't even hear him.

Cloudpaw… is in RiverClan?!

Featherkit perked her ears at her brother's words, before turning around herself. Seeing the face Fireheart was now making, she shot a glare toward her brother.

"Just tell him all of our secrets Stormkit!" she said with a grunt. Stormkit sheepishly waved a paw at her.

"I-it's okay. Fireheart's his kin. He should know about Cloudpaw anyway," he reasoned, although not sounding too confident.

Fireheart, meanwhile, felt sick to his stomach as he continued trying to process what he had just heard.

"Cloudpaw is… alive?" he murmured. Featherkit shuffled her paws, uncomfortable.

"Er, yeah," she said. "He's… weird and annoying, but you get used to it."

Fireheart looked at her, eyes wide. I can't believe it… he's in RiverClan with Graystripe!

The ginger tom suddenly felt light-headed. Taking a few steps, he stumbled to the ground, alarming the two young cats near him.

"What's wrong?" Featherkit looked at him frantically. "Mister Fireheart?"

She waited for a response but got nothing. Taking a step toward him, Featherkit looked over his pelt frantically.

"A-are you hurt? Did I hurt you?" she said, before backing away. "I… I'm sorry. I'd never want to hurt you, mister Fireheart!"

Fireheart struggled to regain his composure, not saying a word. He lifted his head towards Featherkit - who appeared flustered.

"You… don't need to call me mister," he said between breaths. "I'm... fine."

Featherkit twitched her kit-sized whiskers. "Oh... okay then."

Without so much as another glance, Fireheart huffed, taking off in a trot. He expected the kits to follow, despite their initial surprise at him taking off, and was satisfied when he heard the sound of lighter footsteps behind him.

The three made for the Twoleg bridge a bit quicker now, Fireheart's thoughts racing throughout his mind - giving him newfound energy.

He had almost a million questions bouncing around inside his head.

Was Cloudpaw injured? Scarred by Darkstripe? How did he escape? How did he get to RiverClan?

So many questions… and he quickly realized the two kits behind him might just have the answers.

Perking his ears back, Fireheart could hear the kits following him eagerly. Stormkit was heard first, spitting at his sister.

"I'm also fine, by the way. Thanks for asking," he muttered, annoyed.

"I know you are furball! Our thick pelts can survive a few thorns."

Fireheart slowed his pace, allowing the kits to catch up with him slightly. He cleared his throat.

"Okay, you two."

The two kits flinched, before looking toward him.

"Cloudpaw… is he-" Fireheart found it hard to speak. "Is he okay?"

The two kits looked at each other.

"He's… fine. He acts like a minnow-brain at times, but… he's alright," Stormkit said. Fireheart simply nodded.

"How did he get to RiverClan?"

Featherkit responded this time. "Daddy said he found Cloudpaw under the Twoleg bridge. He smelled like ShadowClan!"

Fireheart looked at her surprised, to which she responded with a grin.

"Yeah! He got chased into their territory or something. Then some she-cat helped him find our clan. Crookedstar told everyone all about it after Tigerstar attacked our clan, and Cloudpaw said it was true."

Fireheart furrowed his brow. Crookedstar must have been the one to allow his nephew into the clan. Now both Cloudpaw and Graystripe were given refuge - by RiverClan of all cats.

"I'm glad he's safe," Fireheart commented.

Although as soon as the words left his mouth, Fireheart realized what he'd just said.

Both Cloudpaw and Graystripe had to flee ThunderClan. One a grown warrior, and the other an apprentice.

Fireheart stole a glance at the kits beside him.

And these kits who were telling him all of this… did they not think anything of it?

He frowned, suddenly feeling a sense of frustration. Did they not realize how dangerous ThunderClan was, after ridding themselves of two members like it was nothing?

He cleared his throat, getting their attention.

"You two…" he started. "Both Cloudpaw and Graystripe were chased off by ThunderClan, but you two." He glared at them accusedly. "You two still ran into our territory without a moment's hesitation?"

Stormkit looked at him innocently. "Well, Featherkit and I had the perfect plan until you showed up."

Fireheart gawked at him.

"What would Crookedstar think of your perfect plan?"

At that, Stormkit appeared lost. "Well, he-"

"With everything that's going on, how do you think your clanmates feel?" Fireheart growled at them. "Stressed? Tired? Irritated?"

Stormkit looked away, ears lowering.

"Yeah…"

Fireheart pressed further.

"Do you think a couple of kits missing from their camp is what they need right now?"

He whipped his head around, seeing Featherkit flinch as his gaze landed on her.

"Well… do you?"

"No," Featherkit mumbled, avoiding his gaze.

Sighing, Fireheart shook his head.

"You'll have a lot of explaining to do when you get home," he muttered.

He looked away, needing to say nothing more.

Further down the river, the Twoleg bridge could now be seen. The current roared underneath, making Fireheart imagine Cloudpaw underneath, being battered by the waves as the RiverClan patrol came across him.

He shook his head, desperately trying to escape those thoughts. It was then he suddenly noticed a strong scent wafting through the air.

RiverClan markers.

Taking another whiff, he suddenly noticed another scent as well. There weren't just border markers… there were cats as well!

"Speaking of clanmates…" Fireheart chirped. "I think I can scent them across the river."

The kits perked their ears excitedly at this. Without a word, the two sped ahead, leaving Fireheart behind.

The ginger paused, surprised, before quickly following after them. He followed the kits as they ran towards the bridge, gritting his teeth. Did they think that's an invitation to leave me?

He saw the kits skid to a halt beside the bridge. The pair stood still, their eyes focused solely on the other side. Fireheart came to a halt beside them, before glancing across as well.

From where they stood, a group of cats could be seen on the other side, scurrying through the reeds. Fireheart could only recognize a few of them - Mistyfoot was there along with Crookedstar himself.

The Gathering patrol. Fireheart figured. StarClan, I pray they don't misunderstand when they see me.

Both kits perked their ears.

"Hey, look!" Featherkit gasped. "There's Mosspelt!"

Fireheart perked his ears, suddenly hearing the sound of cats calling from across the water.

"Kits, where are you?"

"Stormkit? Featherkit?"

Fireheart could hear the kits' names being called, the water carrying their voices. He sat back, relieved.

Featherkit looked at him excitedly. "You were right! They are looking for us!"

Fireheart noticed a few cats in the patrol look in their direction. Featherkit's voice must have drawn their attention.

"Kits!" he heard one of them exclaim.

He saw a shape begin to run toward them, grabbing the attention of others. One by one the rest of the patrol looked toward the river, and soon, Fireheart could see the entire group of cats suddenly dashing towards them.

Looking on, he saw nearly half the patrol jump into the water, completely disregarding the bridge nearby. Fireheart backed away, while the kits looked on with awe and excitement.

The ginger tom stayed nearby, waiting anxiously. He could've just left right there and avoided any contact, but the kits most likely were going to mention 'Uncle Fireheart' no matter what he did.

Fireheart saw the lead cat quickly emerge from the water, the RiverClan warrior Mistyfoot. Following behind her were a few more cats that Fireheart was quickly able to recognize. The warriors Stonefur and Blackclaw were there, as well as…

Fireheart felt his chest clutch. His eyes suddenly landed upon the unmistakable pelt of his best friend, as they made it out of the river last. Graystripe stumbled to his paws, eyes full of concern as he swerved through the cats in his way.

He swims now? Fireheart wondered to himself. So, he's truly been accepted into RiverClan.

"Oh, Stormkit! Featherkit!" Fireheart suddenly heard Mistyfoot wail.

Featherkit bounded up to her, a dopey smile plastered on her face. "Hi, Mistyfoot!"

The large, blue-furred she-cat nearly crashed into her, assaulting the kit with licks. Fireheart watched as Graytripe gave Stormkit similar treatment.

The ginger tom gulped, slowly walking up to them. He looked around. Most of the patrol by now had noticed his presence - he could tell by their looks of surprise and worry. Hearing a few hisses, Fireheart stopped. It'd be best not to come any closer.

Mistyfoot lifted her head, eyes wide with fear.

"You, I- What were you thinking?!" she scolded. "You had everyone worried sick! How could you run away on your own?" She whipped her head around. "And Stormkit! You're covered in thorns!"

At that, Fireheart raised his head.

"H-he got stuck in a thorn bush," he stated nervously. The chatter between clanmates suddenly grew quiet as he continued. "Both he and Featherkit tried to attack me while I was out, but he got caught in a thorn bush."

Mistyfoot looked at him, surprised by his presence. After recovering from her initial shock, she turned to glare at the kits.

"They… what?!"

Featherkit put on a mischievous grin. "Ya! We made him squeal like a water vole!" she crouched, flicking her tail as if to re-enact her pounce.

Mistyfoot looked horrified, before glancing back at Fireheart. She quickly got up, trotting up to him with a look of concern.

"Fireheart, I-... apologize," she said with a tone of guilt. Fireheart shook his head.

"No, it's fine. I couldn't be mad at Graystripe's kits," he said. "Besides, I don't blame them for wanting to attack ThunderClan."

Mistyfoot said nothing, observing the tom for what seemed like minutes. After a moment, she simply nodded, resting on her haunches beside him. They watched as the kits were suddenly showered with attention, the rest of the patrol having now come over.

The molly sighed. "We were returning from the Gathering when one of our queens suddenly appeared. She told us these two were missing."

Fireheart hummed. "Featherkit certainly knows how to pounce," he said. "And they hid their scents rather well. It's no surprise they were able to sneak out."

Mistyfoot snorted lightly, looking down. "They're too much for one clan, I swear. I'm not going to live to see them become apprentices." Her voice was soft as she lifted her head toward him.

"Thank you for helping them," she murmured, lifting an eyebrow. "You know, you could've taken them to your clan, but you didn't. Why?"

Fireheart didn't have an immediate answer to that. In the spur of the moment, he never even considered taking them to ThunderClan.

"It was the right thing to do," he finally said.

Mistyfoot didn't reply at first, sighing to herself.

"That's what you always do, isn't it?"

There was no sense of hostility in her voice. Fireheart could detect a fondness in her gaze - she must have truly been grateful.

After a moment of silence, the RiverClan molly stood up.

"I think… you should be careful, Fireheart." She looked at him concernedly. "It seems trouble follows you wherever you go."

Waving her tail goodbye, Mistyfoot quickly padded away to join the rest of her clanmates.

Fireheart watched her go, pondering over what she'd just told him. His thoughts were cut short as he heard Crookedstar's familiar call - the one he used during the Gathering to round up his cats.

Fireheart turned, seeing the large tom sitting atop the Twoleg bridge. Fireheart noticed the RiverClan leader was giving him a look of thanks, to which he nodded in response. Crookedstar hopefully won't forget this deed - ThunderClan still held allies, no matter how few.

Crookedstar suddenly turned. They were leaving, Fireheart figured.

In the crowd, Fireheart watched as a few shapes suddenly emerged, their heads pointed toward him. He noticed Featherkit was one of them.

"Bye, Fireheart!" she called, before turning to follow her grandfather. Fireheart smiled at her. Always so cheerful…

His gaze then shifted onto the other cat that emerged, seeing them nudge Featherkit back into the patrol. This one now turned to approach him, just like Mistyfoot.

Fireheart stiffened. His heart beat faster as the cat trudged closer. He looked upon him in anticipation, mewling a greeting toward them.

"Graystripe…" Fireheart said. He saw his friend perk his ears, before stopping in his tracks.

Graystripe simply stood there for a moment, taking the image of his friend in. He held his jaw open, seemingly at a loss for words, before shaking his head.

"Fireheart… thank you," he began, pausing. "Uh, for… saving my kits, I mean. If Tigerstar found them, I-"

"I know, Graystripe," Fireheart said. "He would've taken them without a second thought."

Graystripe snickered lightly, giving a curt nod in agreement.

"Like the foxheart he is."

There was silence between them for a moment. The murmuring of the RiverClan patrol was still able to be heard - they were waiting for Graystripe.

"Fireheart, did you hear-"

"Cloudpaw?"

Graystirpe widened his eyes at him. Fireheart shuffled his paws.

"I heard from your kits. He's in RiverClan?"

"Y-yes," Graystripe confirmed. Again, he stood silent for a moment, before releasing a short sigh. "Look, Fireheart… I-I'm sorry. I don't know how to explain it, but he's safe in RIverClan. That, I can assure you."

Fireheart nodded his head, drinking in his words.

Cloudpaw is safe in RiverClan. He's safe. Cloudpaw is safe. He repeated in his head.

Graystripe looked his friend over, seeming concerned.

"What about you? You look awful! Are they even feeding you?"

Fireheart huffed. "It's nothing I can't take."

Graystripe drooped his tail, seeming unsatisfied with that answer.

"I'm sorry. I should've done more, but-"

"I just wished you said goodbye."

Fireheart gazed into his eyes. Graystripe's whiskers twitched. He was about to say something, before a thundering voice was suddenly heard, nearly scaring the pelts off of them.

"INTRUDERS!"

The yowl of Darkstripe clawed Fireheart's ears like a pair of talons. Both cats whipped their heads around to see an entire ThunderClan patrol storming toward them - their own Gathering patrol, judging by its size.

Graystripe quickly looked back toward him, fur fluffed up.

"Welp. Here's your goodbye!"

He quickly turned, before glancing back. "Er… and Fireheart?" His eyes flooded with remorse. "I promise you - Cloudpaw and I will find some way to help you get rid of that fleabag Tigerstar. Just… just hang in there, okay?"

Fireheart scoffed.

"Fine, but will you just get out of here already?!"

With a kit-like grin, Graystripe waved his tail goodbye before bolting towards the river. Fireheart watched as he dove into the river, swimming to the other side of the river.

Fireheart gazed in awe, still mesmerized that the fluffy gray tom could now swim. It was surreal, considering this same tom had nearly drowned just a few moons ago.

Just as he emerged on the other shore, the ThunderClan patrol stormed the riverbanks. Fireheart watched his friend slink away along with the rest of his clan, into the reeds and out of sight.

He saw Darkstripe at the head group, lashing his tail ferociously.

"And stay out, fishbreath!"

Fireheart saw his eyes gleam as if he'd just fought a hard-earned victory. He grimaced, knowing Darkstripe's valor was out of place. However, the scent of a certain dark tabby stole his attention.

Fireheart looked behind him - rushing out of the thicket was none other than Tigerstar, with Brackenfur flanking behind him. He looked across the river, scanning the banks, before turning to the young warrior.

"Well done, Brackenfur. Seems there were a couple of odd scents near our borders."

Brackenfur nodded, looking fatigued, before breaking away as Tigerstar descended towards his clan.

Fireheart pinned his ears back, listening to the leader growl as he stalked closer to him. Tigerstar's glare seared his pelt.

"Colluding with RiverClan, are we?" he said loudly, ensuring he grabbed everyone's attention. He grumbled, "I suppose gathering fresh moss on your own was too much for you."

The patrol leered towards Fireheart, disgusted. Assuming their leader's word was the truth as per usual - just like every other time.

Darkstripe was quick to his side, glaring at Fireheart the whole time.

"I bet he told them all of our secrets," the deputy murmured. Tigerstar curled his lip.

Fireheart took a step forward. "Tigerstar, I can explain-" He was cut off by a snarl.

"Silence!"

Tigerstar's command made him flinch. Lashing his tail, the leader turned away.

"Whatever comes from your mouth, I'm sure won't be worth mousedung."

He glared at him, before signaling his patrol.

"ThunderClan! Let's get out of here," he ordered.

With that, Fireheart clenched his teeth, being prodded along by his clanmates.

He glared at the tabby from the back of the patrol as they embarked toward camp. Just like before, he was being silenced. Just like before, he was being ignored.

But this time, he was the only cat present.

Tigerstar was going to have to listen whether he wanted to or not.

ThunderClan camp was bustling by the time of their return. Fireheart slithered through the gorse tunnel, being closely flanked by warriors on the patrol.

From what he could gather from their murmurings, the meeting between the four clans had been rather tense. As if that was a surprise - both ThunderClan and RiverClan were on pretty bad terms.

Despite all that, though, the only thing everyone seemed to be talking about was his little escapade. Fireheart was able to hear their hushed whispers and loud gossip alike as he padded into camp.

"He… what?"

"Why was he outside of the camp?"

"Did he hurt those kits?!"

Fireheart pinned his ears, trying to ignore the attention given to him.

Once again, he was the focus of the entire clan. They were all talking about him again… complaining about him again.

Fireheart noticed a few cats on the patrol speed up to get to camp first - no doubt they told every soul what happened. Unsurprisingly, it seems they painted Fireheart's intentions in the worst of light.

The ginger tom could feel cats behind him nudge him along, giving him little time to dwell. He pulled ahead of them, huffing loudly.

He didn't need an escort. There was only one place he wanted to be, and he wouldn't be coming out of it until morning. He didn't care that he was still hungry, or that the queens never got their moss. There'd been enough excitement for one day.

Unfortunately, his luck would once again disappoint him as he suddenly noticed a small shape cutting through the crowd.

Fireheart widened his eyes, noticing Tawnykit's flame-filled eyes and bristling fur as she suddenly ran up to him.

"Kit-stealer!" she exclaimed, taking a swipe at him. Fireheart flinched away, looking bewildered as the little kit sneered, "How could you attack my foster siblings? You monster!"

Fireheart blinked, opening his mouth to respond before another small shape could be seen running up behind her.

Fireheart watched Bramblekit nearly trip over himself as he came to his sister's side.

"Tawnykit, wait!" he said, eyes widened with fear as he skid to a halt.

Tawnykit growled, turning around. As soon as she did, however, Fireheart could see her ears pin back - her look of anger quickly being replaced by one of fear.

Fireheart followed her gaze, before suddenly laying eyes upon one furious Goldenflower. The look on her face… he could not describe. It was a mix of teeth-gritting rage and dwindling patience.

"Go back to the nursery, you two" was all she said to them. Surprisingly, Tawnykit seemingly still had the gall to object. She opened her mouth to retort, but a quick flash of fangs shut her up immediately.

"Now."

She looked at her mother, disappointedly, before shoving past her brother, giving Fireheart one last glare. Bramblekit looked timidly between his mother and Fireheart, before scrambling to follow his sister.

Fireheart watched them as they disappeared, before hearing Goldenflower clear her throat.

"I trust you're not above lying," she said, giving him a sour look. "What did you really do to those kits?"

Fireheart twitched his whiskers, keeping his expression cool.

"Nothing. I've told you all that happened. RiverClan lost a few kits, one of them hurt himself, then I helped them get back to RiverClan." He frowned, "And just so you know - if Tigerstar wasn't so battle-hungry then they never would've shown up in the first place."

Goldenflower squinted at him before Whitestorm came up beside her.

"They seemed fine from what we saw, Goldenflower. At least, from a distance," he told the queen. "I think he may be telling the truth this time."

Goldenflower didn't acknowledge him.

"You…" she muttered, still lowering at Fireheart. "You have been treading on very thin ice with me, and one day it will break. From now on I don't want you near anyone's kits, for any reason. Understand?"

The queen was now a whisker's length from his face. He could practically feel the anger coming from her. Fireheart slunk away from her, intimidated for a moment.

But then, he scoffed.

"Then keep them from clawing at me."

He broke away from her glare, stalking away. He did not care to see her reaction - whether she'd come and claw him or just stand there, it hardly mattered to him.

Does Goldenflower think I'm trying to get into trouble? He thought with annoyance. All that borage must be messing with her head.

Fireheart kept his eyes forward from then on, heading straight for the prisoner's den. He knew they were glaring at him. They were always glaring at him.

Stalking into his den, Fireheart instantly went to check the moss in his nest. It was clean last he knew, therefore he wouldn't have been surprised if the queens came and taken it for themselves.

Prodding it, he was pleased to find it was clean. Perhaps Yellowfang had something to do with that - she was the sole reason he even had a nest in the first place, as Tigerstar originally didn't want him to have one. Not that it was a surprise, by now it was almost custom that he be given the worst of any resource.

Finally lying down after such a long day, Fireheart sighed. From his nest, he could faintly hear Tigerstar outside, speaking with the clan. A meeting must've been called - as if he would know after trying so hard to put everyone out of his mind.

"-and as such, he is banned from ever leaving the camp without a guard until further notice," Tigerstar could be heard from atop the Highrock. "Today he has proven that he cannot be trusted outside of camp by himself. Although it should not come as a surprise. Trouble seems to appear whenever we're not keeping an eye on him."

Fireheart saw him leer towards his den. He huffed, resting his head on his paws.

Trouble that only happens because of you. He thought bitterly.

"What happened to the kits?" Willowpelt inquired.

"One of them supposedly got stuck in a thorn bush. They probably don't even know their own territory, much less ours," Tigerstar replied.

Darkstripe could be seen frowning from his spot next to the Highrock.

"And the traitor helped them?" he growled.

"...Yes."

Fireheart eyed the dark tabby suspiciously. Was he actually considering Fireheart's story? Admit he'd done something good?

Darkstripe sneered. "Then why'd he take them back to RiverClan? They were trespassing on our territory. Kits or not - they have to answer to you!"

The clan murmured their agreements, much to Fireheart's dismay. Apparently, 'helping' the kits get back to their clan was something to look down upon.

"My sentiments exactly," Tigerstar said, "But as we know, our traitor here isn't too keen on following the rules."

Fireheart rolled his eyes. I've heard enough of this mouse bile.

Looking away, the ginger tom flopped on his side, staring aimlessly at the wall with only his thoughts to keep him company.

As usual, all of them just assume the worst about me. Imbeciles. He thought, releasing a cynical huff. And what would Tigerstar have done that's any better? Nothing. He would have kept them hostage or used them to get something from RiverClan.

Fireheart gripped the dirt with his claws, narrowing his eyes at the wall.

But we can't talk about that. Noo. Let's focus on how the kittypet traitor was the one who found them and disobeyed the bloody rules!

Fireheart growled to himself, lashing his tail across the ground. The sound of a throat clearing startled him to his paws.

Fireheart whipped his head around toward the entrance of the prisoner's den. coming to meet the gaze of Sandstorm. The she-cat stood there, giving him a strange look.

Fireheart furrowed his brow.

"What is it?"

She peered at him, unmoved by the roughness of his tone.

"I'm your guard for tonight," she stated.

"Oh," Fireheart grumbled, before looking away. "My condolences."

He slunk back down in his nest, before hearing Sandstorm hum.

"So, you really didn't think to take those kits to Tigerstar?"

Fireheart kept his eyes on the wall, flicking an ear.

"No."

"Why?"

Fireheart frowned, lifting himself again just to give her an annoyed glare.

"What do you mean why? He obviously would've held them captive. He would do anything to become a bigger pain to other clans. You know how he is." His gaze locked with Sandstorm's, who still kept a blank look.

Fireheart frowned in irritation, though he was slightly put off at the same time. Was Sandstorm testing him?

"You don't know that for sure," she stated. "So, you were just afraid of something he might've done?"

Fireheart grumbled, before slowly laying back down, avoiding her gaze.

"Yeah, if that's the way you want to put it," he said. "You should be concerned as well, Sandstorm. Tigerstar isn't as great as you think he is."

"Tell me something," she interrupted as if she wasn't even listening. "If you're a traitor - trying so hard to prove otherwise - then why wouldn't you bring those kits to Tigerstar? He gets the final say in these types of things, and giving him those kits would've helped your standing with him."

Fireheart huffed. Was she trying to help him or something? Did she pity him?

"The kits are RiverClan's. I did the right thing. Tigerstar can kiss an adder for all I care," he replied.

"Still, you'd rather have your situation get worse than appeal to Tigerstar?"

He sighed.

"You wouldn't get it, Sandstorm…"

"Mhm, fine," she dismissed him, turning away. "If that's all, then, I bid you good night."

Fireheart listened to hear her step away, but he knew she would be there outside his den for the rest of the night. She'd be the one to bring him food in the morning too, as every guard did - likely scraps too, just like every guard before her.

Fireheart lay there conflicted, pondering over the strange conversation he'd just been a part of.

Sandstorm knows I've helped RiverClan before, so she should not have been surprised to hear I helped them over Tigerstar. Although… why does she even care? Everyone else just thinks I'm a traitor like Brokenstar.

He couldn't help but favor the idea that Sandstorm had been testing him at that moment.

Almost no one knows what happened in the den that one night, but they all choose to believe Tigerstar regardless. But Sandstorm… what's gotten her so inquisitive?

Fireheart had originally thought that there were at least a few cats in ThunderClan who had trouble believing he was capable of murder.

Those he was close to of course didn't believe it - Cinderpaw and Yellowfang trusted him, while Graystripe and Cloudpaw had been chased away for it, alongside other reasons.

There was also Whitestorm and Dappletail, who seemed to treat him no different. Nevertheless, Fireheart lamented. They still believe Tigerstar.

He furrowed his brow. But, now that I think about it, nobody has ever cared enough to ask about my side of the story.

Fireheart recalled that only Yellowfang was able to hear the truth before Tigerstar shut him away. During the quarter-moon he spent in the medicine den, hardly anyone came in unless it was an emergency. If they need Yellowfang, she would have to meet them outside. If they had to come in her den, Fireheart was put to work somewhere away from them.

It seemed almost as if Tigerstar was intentionally keeping him from speaking to his clanmates. He must have figured the medicine cats knew the truth already, so perhaps putting Fireheart in the den for a quarter-moon as he adjusted to leadership was his best move.

Fireheart thought over the possibilities with himself. Tigerstar must be playing the long game - waiting until the perfect moment to strike and bury the truth forever.

Fireheart's stomach curled at the thought.

He couldn't wait that long. No, he refused to wait that long. He did not want to play into the tabby's paws if he could help it.

For almost half the night, Fireheart pondered everything. His next steps were covered by a veil of uncertainty, but he knew he had to start somewhere.

Perhaps… I should talk to Sandstorm more often.

…

A/N - Ahhh, kits. They're always fun to write. I tried to make them dorky comic relief, but if it was just cringe, then I apologize :(

Anyway, this probably was my favorite chapter (chapters?) so far! I love to exaggerate character interactions if it wasn't already obvious, even when it's just cats being anal about minor inconveniences.

I especially adore kits - like Featherkit, the little scamp.