"So you're absolutely sure you're prepared for this?", Floss questioned, poking her muzzle through the pile of herbs. The sharp tang overwhelmed her sensitive nose, letting off a massive sneeze, scattering the leaves everywhere. "Careful!", Leafpool objected, beginning the lengthy process of organizing them again, her swollen belly swaying under her.
"Sorry.", Floss mewed, flustered. It been serval sunsets since the huge Horse had kicked her flank and the wound was healing well. After rummaging through the Farmer's crops with the loners, she found another familiar herb, garlic leaves, Which had saved her life. Without that lucky find, there was no way to prevent infection.
When Daisy had to return home, Floss had taken responsibility of caring for the heavily pregnant Leafpool, even sleeping in the Abandoned shed. Since no Thunderclan cats had come snooping round recently, it could be confidently assured Daisy genuinely wanted to help the half-clan kits.
Every extended exercise exhausted Leafpool now, bloated with kits restless to meet the outside world. Now Leafpool understood the frustration of past Queens, unable to do simple tasks without aid. Though she needed Floss more than ever, as labour could start at literally any heartbeat- Then throbbing sensation struck her like a lightning bolt. The first sign! And not a moment too soon.
Leaping into action, Leafpool immediately heaved her muscles, like holding a landslide back with nothing but her frail frame. Directing her collapsing body towards her ivy nest, Leafpool was dimly aware of the wet blood dripping around her hindquarters. Calling for Floss was unnecessary as the light she-cat cried out, "You've started, haven't you?", instantly leaning over her.
"Remember- just like we practice.", Leafpool reminded her while gasping, resisting the urge to coil up into a ball. With Floss searching for herbs, the world enclosed in on Leafpool. Nothing but the dimensions of her body and the thrashing kits left. Any attempt to remain focused becoming temporarily useless, as fear crashed inside of her. Within her vision, the mess of blurred shapes was tinted with red, erupting in agony.
From all the births she'd helped with, the Queens made it look easy! How did they do it? Images from her last moonpool dream exploded into her mind, with a loving Squirrelflight cuddling a beautiful healthy litter. That dream could come reality and Leafpool would make sure of it.
Using it as motivation, Leafpool grinded her claws and teeth, redirecting all her energy towards pulsing around her tail. The kits' paws desperately slamming against her womb. You'll be out soon, little ones, hold in there. I'll deliver you safely, even If I have die for it!
After an eternity in isolation, Floss returned with a jawful of jagged-edged leaves from a Raspberry bush. "Give me a few of the leaves- Then chew the rest into a paste!", Leafpool ordered, voice cracking in pain. The tips of herbs pricked at the Medicine cat's lips as they were shoved towards her. Straining her aching neck, Leafpool grasped a few precious leaves.
The Raspberry herb took the edge off, no longer caught in a gale of scarlet blood. Stumbling backwards, Floss seemed on the verge of panicking, "W-we need Smokey.", she stuttered. "Does he have any experience with this?", Leafpool uttered through gritted teeth.
The frosty mist forming round Floss's eyes cleared, shaking her round head, "It was always our Housefolk that handled our births.", she admitted. Well, those creatures were the last thing Leafpool wanted near her newborns. The Medicine cat urged the loner on like a mentor to an apprentice, "Has it been Smokey caring for me recently? No- It's been you, Floss. And I still need you now. Help me deliver those kits."
Inhaling gasps of air as stress pressed against Floss's lunges, she at last, shuffled closer to Leafpool's side. Gently placing a paw on her twitching stomach, her ear's spiked upwards, "I think one's coming already!", she alerted.
As Floss finished speaking, a tiny shape slid out into the open, squirming on the ivy nest. Using its lunges for the first time, the newborn whaled out from the shock of life. Relief flooded over Leafpool. The first of the litter was strong and healthy!
Surprisingly not needing directions, Floss swiftly nipped the she-kit free of its sticky sack, nudging it towards its mother's belly to suckle. Already brimming with intelligence, the dark cat instantly latched on, knowing how to gain its a strength. Leafpool's tightening world expanding just enough to crawl around the kit. Now Leafpool's pelt was an immovable barrier, protecting the lively bundle from any fang or claw.
Yet, of course, it wasn't over. Unable to linger on the first born too long as another wave slashed through Leafpool. However, it was even greater than the pain before. Too great. This was too overwhelming for a regular birth. "I-It's not coming out!", Floss announced, prodding at it with a paw.
Snapping her head around, Leafpool panicked at what she saw. Only the hind legs of a golden tabby dangled out, the rest of it jammed in a dangerous position. It was massive! Remembering stories of kits getting stuck during birth. Occasionally Queens even died. Leafpool searched through Cinderpelt's past lessons for that critical knowledge.
Gripping the wedged kit at an angle, Leafpool gently twisted, roughly lowering onto the floor. Gasping with exhaustion, Leafpool fell back onto the leafy floor, threatening to slip into a moon's long slumber. A new pair of paws pattered at her stomach, kneading to get the fresh milk. Exhaustion kept her head pinned down. Why can't I look at my kits?
Yet within Leafpool's withered hearing, Floss's tongue hastily rasped against a pelt some distance away. Two kittens were already feeding. Which matched the two phases of pain she
felt. So surely that had to be the whole litter?
As if she was dosed on poppy seeds, it took all the effort of Starclan for Leafpool to slid her heavy eyelids open. As limp as fresh-kill, a pitiful grey scrap was sprawled out on the cold stone. Only Floss's warm tongue was giving the kit any warmth. "I don't know what to do!", the pale she-cat gasped. Please Starclan, don't let tragedy strike.
"Let me see my son", Leafpool could only manage in a whisper, weakly reaching out towards them. Trembling, Floss carried the frail tom by his scruff. There was no rise and fall from his chest, only laying there frozen like lifeless ice. He wasn't breathing. The new fire of determination blazed through Leafpool. At this moment, she'd wasn't a scared mother, but a Medicine cat saving a patient's life.
"Take the other two, quickly.", Leafpool ordered, Floss instantly curled her tail around the littermates, drawing them into the shelter of her flank. They cried out in unison for their brother, sensing he was in danger. Leafpool would be joining them if she didn't have the training to save him. Tipping the grey tom's chin back, his tiny mouth dangled open.
Urgent not to add too much pressure, Leafpool pumped his chest into a rhythm; Up, down, Up, down- She kept on repeating until she wondered if she'd be doing this forever. Time seemed to drag on.
Come on! So much is waiting for you in this world, so don't let go. Don't leave me now!
For one of unspeakable heartbeat, Leafpool dreaded the worst. Yet life sprang from the grey tabby, letting out a deafening squeak. Uniting the full litter to Leafpool's side, Floss nervously sniffed at them, "Is everything alright now?", she whispered.
"I-I think so.", Leafpool muttered, daunted. "Of course they will be.", Floss purred, brushing her cheek against the new mother, "Though we'll still need to get some fresh-bedding".
The loner was correct. With her own nest drenched in blood, Leafpool quietly crawled towards Floss's instead.
While the loner left to discard the gruesome aftermaths of the birth, a dazed Leafpool slowly chewed at the Raspberry and Borage herbs. It was hard to grasp. No longer were her kits an abstract concept but physical. She could see, hear and feel them.
For the first time, Leafpool was left in peace to gaze at her daughter and sons. Suddenly, her heart was melting with such fierce love like nothing she'd felt before. Even more than for Squirrelflight. So this what it was like to be a mother? How could the Medicine code forbid such a wonderful experience?
"Welcome to the world, little ones.", she mewed. If only Crowfeather could see how perfect their kits are.
Neatly lined up against her belly, they now slept like dormice; one she-cat and two toms. On the far end, her daughter had a sleek black pelt, a shade darker than her father's. In the middle, the golden tabby dominated the space, much larger than his littermates. The bristles around his neck impressively thick, like a lion's mane.
At the end of the row, lay her youngest, tightly wrapped up into his brother's flank. Somehow, she couldn't stop staring at him. Out of all her kits, Leafpool feared for the grey tom the most. No newborn should be this scrawny. How did he end up like this?
A horrid dread hovered over her. Was this her fault? So many of her mistakes could have affected her pregnancy: The falling branch that killed Rainwhisker, the algae herb or the horse kick. Or it something else entirely - Was this Starclan's punishment?
It didn't matter now. Her kits were here now, alive and well. She'd make sure they had the best life possible. All three were small and precious, which she'd do anything to protect in a heartbeat.
A soft rustling sounded as the ivy wines parted for Floss, carrying a freshly caught mouse. Greeting her warmly with a blink, Leafpool eagerly awaited the she-cat's reaction. Yet Floss only silently delivered her offering, dipped her head and wondered to the exit. "Floss? Where are you going?", Leafpool muttered.
Already crouched at the entrance, Floss glanced back, "We haven't even known each other for a moon. It wouldn't be right for anyone outside your kin to intrude on the bonding process. You should be alone with your kits". It took a moment for Leafpool to make sense of the confusing words. Was it a Loner custom to leave a mother and her newborns alone after the birth?
The tragic mates of Smokey and Floss deserved to have a moment with her kits. Especially since they'd never see their own litters again. "I'm not sure how it's done in the Horse Place- But in the Clans, cats are free to visit the Nursery at any time.", Leafpool announced, "After you and Smokey risked so much for those kits, as their mother, I want you to see them.".
Nodding, Floss settled down, nose twitching like an unsure apprentice. As she swept the kits' fluffy pelts flat with her tail, Leafpool caught subtle words on Floss's breath, "Please don't let anything happen to those ones.". Then the loner's ears pricked in surprise when Leafpool replied "And nothing will.", the Medicine cat promised, "Thanks to you, the Twolegs don't know we're here.".
Speechless to the kind words, Floss only set off a purr, wrapping their tails around each other in comfort. After Leafpool's own pregnancy, she couldn't wish the pain of losing a kit on her worst enemy. How were Floss and Smokey so strong to keep going?
From outside of the Abandoned shed, Smokey warily called in, "I heard screaming!", he declared, "Have you given birth yet? One yowl for yes and two for no.". At his loud voice, the kits were snapped awake, beginning to moan. Inexperienced, Leafpool could only try the obvious and groomed them, but it only made it worse.
How did Queens smooth kits again? Using herbs was the only thing Leafpool understood. Yet using poppy seeds for such a minor inconvenience would be inappropriate. Next, to her, Floss flattened her ears in annoyance. Certainly, the Loner had a hot temper when she needed to. "Foxdung.", Floss cursed, standing up, "Smokey, we're fine, you big fur ball. You just disturbed the newborns!".
Popping his head through the entrance, Smokey blinked, "Is all the gory stuff out the way?"
Rolling her eyes, Floss gave a direct answer, "Yes.". The presence of kit made it impossible to remain annoyed, so after a sigh, the she-cat softened her words, "Leafpool said we can stay with her.".
Ear twitching in surprise, Smokey slid into the Twoleg Structure, battering the snowflakes from his wind-swept fur. "So newborns are allowed visitors in the Clans-", Smokey mewed to himself, "Learn something new every day.". Going down to the kits' level, the grey tom sniffed at them curiously. Usually, male loners or rogues might threaten kits who weren't their own offspring, though Leafpool wasn't concerned about a harmless lump like Smokey.
"Lively lot you go here.", he commented as her kits' reacted to Smokey's twitching nose, pawing at it,"Got any names for the little critters?". From the joyful twitch of his whiskers, Leafpool could tell he wanted to play with them. She answered the question before Smokey suggested a game too rough for newborns, "N-no, I haven't decided yet.", she admitted. It was the moment of truth. What names were fitting of such wonderful creatures?
"Could I name one?", Smokey suddenly asked brightly. Both she-cats only stared at him. "Is that overstepping it?", he muttered awkwardly. Finally having a spark of humour, Floss sarcastically mewed, "Just a bit, Smokey. Just a bit.". Snorting, Smokey prodded her nose playfully. Eerily similar to Squirrelflight and Brambleclaw. It would be those two actually deciding the littermates' Clan titles.
Clan titles- But her kits weren't quite Clan cats yet. Not until they arrived safely at Thunderclan's camp. Right now, they were in the unfamiliar landscape of the Twolegs and their tamed animals. This was a special moment in the family's history. The only period where Leafpool could be a true mother to them. To server this painfully short time, she'd give them names only Leafpool would know. Names that could only exist here and now.
"I know what I'm going to call them.", Leafpool announced, raising her head proudly. While Smokey gave an approving nod, Floss waited eagerly. This was for all the cats that should have witnessed this birth. First, she flicked her tail towards her only daughter, dark as the night sky, "My daughter will be known as Crow. After her father.".
Reacting to her name, Crow tightened up with tense muscles. Didn't she like it?
Since no newborn could ever reply to that, Leafpool reluctantly continued, pressing her muzzle into her second born. "I'll name the golden tabby, Sand." This time there was no reaction, Sand remaining peacefully asleep against her flank.
Only the last kit remained, Leafpool licked him between the ears, "And this one will be called Feather.", she finished. Pausing to make sense of her choices, Floss's mewed gratefully, "Did you really give them Loner names for us?".
Leafpool nodded, "It's the least I can do. Even if it's only for a little while.". Smokey narrowed his eyes thoughtfully, "So you'll all be heading home soon then?".
"Of course.", Leafpool murmured, gazing down at her kits, "That's where they belong.". Imagining the grand life ahead of them in the Clans: Tumbling around the Nursery as kits, Exploring the territories as apprentices and defending their clanmates as warriors. This was all waiting for those three. It didn't matter if it was her or Squirrelflight raising them.
Smokey began speaking, surprisingly serious, "If the worst happens at the Lake, come straight back here. I won't let a single claw go on those kits.". Wrapping her body tighter around the helpless bundles, Leafpool sighed, "Thank you for the offer, Smokey. But that's the last thing I'll allow to happen. If all goes well, no Clan cat will even know of their real heritage.".
Truly, Leafpool didn't know a single Thunderclan cat who was capable of harming her kits. At worst, prideful Clanmates like Thornclaw or Mousefur might prefer their relocation, but they'd still back away if Firestar gave the order. Those were the same cats who accepted Graystripe and Stormfur after all. The main threat would probably come from the other Clans.
The thought of Windclan getting a whiff of the truth made her shudder. What would Crowfeather think? Would he want to fight for possession of his kits? Did either of them have the right to? They weren't the ones raising those kits anymore. Forgiveness from Crowfeather wasn't necessary, only his understanding that this was the easiest way. So no one else needed to suffer from their mistake. Especially their kits.
Without realising it, Leafpool had slipped off into sleep, but the soft whining of kittens brought her back to the present. Tucked in the corner, Smokey and Floss lay stretched out, giving the Queen some space. The time was rapidly approaching, wasn't it? When Leafpool had to say goodbye to the friends who risked so much for her. She didn't know what to say.
It had crept on her so quickly. The narrow amount of time she'd get to spend with her children as a true mother - was closing. Every passing day mattered when it came to the growth of kits. If Leafpool didn't deliver them to Squirrelflight within the next sunset or so - It would be obvious the kits were too developed to be Squirrelflight's newborns.
Had the harsh weather yielded to allow them a safe journey? Glancing to the windows, occasional snowflakes gracefully fluttered through the air, landing without a sound on the creamy stone floor. Though the leadbare wind wasn't strong, only a gentle murmur like a sigh.
In a strange way, Leafpool was going to miss this place. Feeling like she knew every crack running across the walls and floor. Spending so much time setting up a nest and gathering a herb store, to give it a sense of home, she almost tricked herself into believing it. After staying here for a moon, it was hard not to grow an attachment. Some of her most life-changing memories happened right in the Horse Place. Including her kits' birthplace.
Checking up on her kits, Leafpool's pelt spiked with the only Feather and Crow curled up against her belly. "S-Sand- Sand missing!", the panicked queen screeched out. Instantly the whole residence was awakened, the kits crying and the adults groaning. Outside in the night, a chillingly high scream rang out. How had Sand wandered so far?
"Floss, keep the other two safe!", Leafpool ordered, as she and Smokey madly scrambled through the narrow entrance. Amongst the hills of bushes and snow, a red tail lashed in the air. The two cats lunged in that direction, to see the full terrifying scene. Trapped between the forepaws of a bony fox, was a flailing golden bundle, barely dodging the sharp fangs. The bites were quick curious nips, as if the fox was confused about what to do with prey so small.
Announcing their presence with a furious yowl, Smokey took a defiant step towards the predator. Lifting its head away from Sand, it didn't dare to growl. Extending her claws until they almost snapped, Leafpool silently stared down the hollow pupils of the Fox. Both sides remained unmoving for too long. A single twitch could be the difference between her son's life or death. They had to do something, neither of them could remain like this forever!
Yet an aspect of the fox's behaviour bothered Leafpool. A feeling she couldn't shift from the bottom of her heart. Opening her mouth to a crack, she drank in a milky scent. Was it related to the father fox killed by the Horse? Realising it in the same moment, Smokey's ears directed him to a nearby gorse. Deep within the tangle of thorns, there was a shift of red bodies.
Before anyone could stop Smokey, his head launched like a snake, ripping a fox cub from its littermates and hiding spot. "Be careful.", Leafpool sharply warned the foolish tom. Now in the open, the cub dangled helplessly from Smokey's jaws. Purposefully digging his teeth too deep into its scruff, threatening to draw blood. Despite being a different species, bile still crept at the edge of Leafpool's throat.
"I doubt you can understand my words, you piece of dung.", Smokey growled, "But anyone can understand actions. So don't let this get ugly. Drop the kit. Now.". Leafpool preyed to Starclan the mindless beast could make sense of Smokey's threat. With some intelligence, the mother's gaze briefly flickered down to Sand, tail swaying with thought.
Suddenly, a hiss sounded, "Attack already idiots!" Out of nowhere, Floss used her whole weight to slam into the fox's side. The force was enough to make the fox stumble back away from its hostage. Head reeling from Floss's recklessness, Leafpool ignored it for the opportunity it had provided. Without hesitation, she stood over her kit, using her own body as a barrier. Nothing would move her!
With Sand under the protection of Leafpool, Smokey discarded the fox cub onto the frosty floor, moving into aid his mate. A distance away, Floss reared up, slashing the ears of the much larger opponent. Shaking the blood from its eyes, the mother fox aimed its teeth for the Loner's throat. Just in time, Smokey landed heavily on its head, biting down hard. Floss lunching on top as well, weighing down the thrashing animal.
The flailing mass writhed wildly in all directions, as all three struggled for dominance. Every passing moment, Leafpool expected the loners to be crushed under the bony red fur. However Leafpool couldn't waste time, she had to get Sand to safety. Nudging the kit to make sure he was breathing, Leafpool took him by the scruff, sneaking him away from the fierce battle.
Reentering the shed, she placed him with his littermates in the furthest corner. With battle cries still raging, Leafpool turned away. The Shed's thick stone walls should bring protection for now. Crawling back into the outside, the Medicine cat saw the two loners fight with the bravery of any warrior.
Under the belly of the fox, Smokey rolled from side to side, avoiding the slamming paws. Meanwhile, Floss tugged at the long bushy tail like a stubborn tree root. Using what little moves she knew, Leafpool joined her friends in the face of battle. Reaching for Smokey's scruff, Leafpool heaved the large tom free of the fox's grip. Leaving him to catch his breath, she rolled into the Fox's blind spot when it's attention was on Floss. This creature almost killed her son!
Getting only a few vicious blows in before a heavy paw knocked against her cheek. Lights exploded in her visions. A new fire blazed in her. The world around her was tinted red as if everything was drenched in blood. Fiercer than any rage she was used to. Was this was known as a Mother's wrath? Could it really be so dangerous?
Briefly, the confused cubs' soft whines overwhelmed her dull senses. Those could be easily the meows of kittens. Burying it deep, Leafpool drained the dazing battle rage out of her system. No, she was a Medicine cat. She saved lives, never took them, no matter how vile they were. She couldn't allow a mother's blind emotions to affect her. Redirecting her revenge lust to an innocent desire to protect, Leafpool returned to the brawl. She'd only drive the fox away.
Scrambling on top of the fox, Leafpool wrapped her whole body around the neck like a tree branch. Using both teeth and claws to dig deep into the flesh. Driving its head into the ground, the fox buried Leafpool in a freezing layer of snow. Falling away, Leafpool could only focus on breaking the surface of the white lake. Sneezing out the last few flakes, Leafpool rapidly searched the landscape.
Side by side, a panting Smokey and Floss stood their ground against the growling fox. Bounding next to them, the strong line of three cats was an overwhelming threat for any individual. Admitting defeat, the female fox howled out, calling to its babies. Backing away steadily, it span on its heel, the three cubs clumsily following. All three remained rooted until they were nothing but fading dots in the great expanse.
By some miracle, not a single drop of blood had been shed from the group. Backing away from the snarling barrier, Leafpool sped away to check Sand. Halfway to the entrance, Smokey's muscles loosened up. Eventually drawing out a sigh. "I think we're safe.", he uttered, confronting Floss who was still tense. Not replying, her mate only dipped her head, hurrying after Leafpool.
Piled together, Feather and Crow seemed to be protecting their brother with their own bodies. So young, but they were already so close as littermates. Scooping up the few herbs available, Leafpool sniffed Sand all over to find the inevitable injuries. Please let him be savable. She checked once. She checked twice. Yet no matter how much she searched, Leafpool couldn't find a single scratch on the golden tabby.
Cautiously, Floss and Smokey leaned in from behind. "How bad is it?", the pale she-cat nervously asked. Sitting back on her haunches, Leafpool blinked in astonishment, "No- That's not it at all. There's not a single scratch on him.". There's was a pause before anyone replied, which was Floss's, cracking in disbelief, "That's ridiculous, I saw the fox's teeth make contact!".
Secretly scooting past, Smokey struck his muzzle into the Sand's face. Hiding his own confusion under a joke, "The Brave lump probably already got all his warrior training down. Bet he dodged every single one of those bites!". Shaking down his thick grey pelt, he trotted back over, "But seriously, he's just lucky. Does it matter how? He's safe and that's all we need to know.".
Her days-old kit didn't receive a single mark after being in the jaws of a fox. The more Leafpool repeated that fact in her head, the less sense it made. Could Smokey's assumption be true? Did the female fox go easy on Sand as a plaything then proper prey? Though in leafbare, even the tiniest scrap of meat was vital, especially for a mother raising young. Leafpool understood that better than ever.
The truth must lay within Starclan's message of the three multiple-coloured stars. This is what Yellowfang meant that those kits will have the power of the stars in their paws. Cats had been known to have gifts beyond physical nature. Herself and Squirrelflight's minds were once linked, no matter the distance. Even historical accounts of an ancient Medicine cat, Goosefeather communicating with the dead without the aid of the moonstone.
Could Sand's inability to get wounded be another gift? If so, Leafpool had no idea they could be so powerful. Enforcing even more, that her litter needed to be within the ranks of the Clans. Fear scent pricked at her nose, as the two loners nervously paced. It should be for their sake as well. Leafpool had already brought a Thunderclan patrol in their direction. It's wasn't their lifestyle to be within the free yet dangerous wilderness. They had a peaceful Barn and housefolk, which shouldn't change for anyone's sake.
"Are you two injured?", the Medicine cat finally mewed. Flexing her claws like she was still in battle, Floss snorted, "The only one injured is that stupid fox.". With a closer look, specks of red bubbled around where a claw should be. Rolling up a dock, Leafpool prodded the herb towards her, "Press this against your paw.". Calming down slightly, Floss accepted with a nod.
More relaxed, Smokey scratched at his ear while he answered, "Unless you count a bit of ruffled fur, not a thing on me.". Double checking anyway, the Medicine cat found nothing but torn bristles or grazed the skin, all too minor for herbs. With that, Leafpool focused back on her kits, cradling them until they were fast asleep.
Truthfully, the brown tabby knew she was only distracting herself. She just didn't want to say goodbye to Smokey and Floss, who were almost like clanmates. Together for a whole moon, they had kept her darkest secret and fraught with their lives to protect her kits. Once Leafpool had returned to Thunderclan, it was unlikely she could visit. Was this the final time she'd properly speak to them?
No way around it. Sighing, Leafpool admitted, "I think this is the right time to be leaving for Thunderclan.". Ears going straight upwards, a flash of disappointment went over Floss's face, "So soon?".
Leafpool nodded sadly, "My Clanmates need to think Squirrelflight recently gave birth to my kits. So we need to get them to her quickly before they become serval days old.". Respectfully, Smokey dipped his head, "It had to come sooner or later. They're Clan cats in the end.". His last words seemed half-hearted, even a hint of regret. Reminding Leafpool of how the Twolegs stole Smokey's own kits.
Leafpool pressed her nose against his in gratitude, "I'm hoping we haven't been too much trouble. I don't know how I can repay you.". His Gazed soften as he was reminded of distant memories, "Consider it returning the favour.", he mewed proudly, "Thunderclan gave Daisy and my kits a home, I can't forget that.".
"And they're all made grand additions to Thunderclan, we couldn't ask for better cats.", Leafpool commented. Smokey's jaw opened for a question, "Should I join-", but he instantly snapped it shut again. Easily, Leafpool could finish his question; Should he join Thunderclan to be with them? Though it was clear he was happiest at the Barn.
From behind, Floss approached her mate, "They're safe, Smokey. Daisy will make sure nothing will happen to them.", she assured. Swallowing down a sigh, the grey tom straightened up, "I know.", burying his face into her fur for comfort. Separating again, Smokey shook his pelt down, abruptly in a better mood.
"You've certainly made it a wild moon, Leafpool!", he commented cheerfully, "Good luck and keep your head high no matter what happens at the Lake. If your kits see how strong their mother is, they'll have nothing to worry about.". Those words seemed straight from a member of her kin. It gave Leafpool a sudden drive to see her family again: Firestar, Sandstorm, Squirrelflight, everyone- She was going home!
Reaching above the gorge stems, Leafpool searched the landscape for any familiar faces.
Throughout the day, she and Floss had hiked tirelessly with the kits. They were all exhausted, but they couldn't afford to stay for long. Settled among a thicket patch, it overlooked the Thunderclan border at the bottom of the hillside. Away from the Oak trees, it was a flattened field of wind-swept bushes. The perfect vantage to spot Squirrelflight and Daisy.
Like they'd planned a moon ago - Leafpool sneaked into the Territory and left a scratch mark on that Fallen elm tree. With her scent disguised with mushrooms, her clanmates wouldn't be able to track their missing Medicine cat. Since it was past dawn, a border patrol should have reported the strange scratch by now. It was a matter of time before Squirrelflight showed up.
Everything was happening so fast, it was hard to understand. She had barely processed seeing her home territory again - However soon, she'd deliver her kits to Squirrelflight, their new mother. Mother. The word echoed in her mind. This was the last chance Leafpool had to be one.
Dropping down again, Leafpool crawled through the endless roots until reaching Floss. Under the green roof, a shallow ditch filled with dead leaves provided a dry atmosphere for their temporary stay. Struggling to keep her fur flat, Floss seemed uncomfortable to have kits scrambling all over her. "Thank goodness-", she exclaimed, "Could you hold them for a while? I never knew kittens could be such a handful. Sand has been fidgeting like a worm!".
As Leafpool guided her sons and daughter towards her, she took note of Floss's comment. Taking the lead of his siblings, Sand charged forward with heavy paws. The Golden tabby was certainly lively for his age. Maybe too much. She'd have to keep a close eye on him as well as on Feather. Had the fox attack made him restless?
Before Leafpool could dwindle on the thought, Floss's wary yowl interrupted, "They're here!". Through the stem wall, Leafpool spotted two distant figures moving through the oak landscape - The Creamy pelt of Daisy and bushy red tail of Squirrelflight. This couldn't have gone more perfectly! Maybe those kits really would go uncaught and have a normal life.
Carrying the litter between them, the two she-cat cats clambered down the grassy slope to the Thunderclan border. Tasting the air, no more Thunderclan cats were around for the time being. Laying the littermates on soft heather, Leafpool rushed to embrace her sister, feeling like it had been seasons. Beside them, Daisy and Floss doing the same. "It's been so long!", Leafpool purred. "I wouldn't keep you waiting.", Squirrelflight mischievously whispered.
Drawing back, Leafpool spotting her sister's bulging stomach, "How are you handling all the food?". Though she snorted dismissively, playing it down, "Only vomited once- Nothing major! Now I know how father felt like a fat kittypet.". Attempting to hide her stress under humour, classic Squirrelflight.
After the purres quieted down, Floss shuffled backwards, circling her tail defensively around the kits. Her striking gaze burning into Squirrelflight with suspicion, "Will you be the one adopting Leafpool's kits?", she questioned. Lifting her head in defiance, Squirrelflight confidently replied, "Floss, isn't it? Yeah, I will be adopting them. Got a problem with that?". Nervously, Leafpool gulped. Why was this suddenly turning hostile?
Daisy's priority elsewhere, she eagerly drove towards the kits, smothering them in loving licks. " They're the most adorable thing I've ever seen! What have you called them?", she asked eagerly.
Leafpool couldn't bear to keep them nameless. Though it was obvious their currents names couldn't be kept. It was simply a personal sentiment for Leafpool, secret names only their birth mother would know, long after they've moved to Squirrelflight's care.
Maybe it was selfish, to keep this even from Squirrelflight. But Leafpool wanted just that one thing to cling onto. "Nothing Yet.", she lied, "Only Squirrelflight and Brambleclaw should make such an important decision.". Floss shot the Medicine cat a questioning look but kept quiet.
Approaching her new kittens, Squirrelflight dangled her tail above them like a hovering bird. Sensing a presence above them, the kits instinctively reached out, pushing it back and forth between them. Leafpool chuckled aloud. It was similar to how the sisters used to chase round Sandstorm's tail. From the amused twitch of Squirrelflight's whiskers, she reflected on those same Nursery memories.
Unable to reach his prey, Feather mewed in frustration, straining his paws upwards. Quickly, Leafpool placed her tail on Squirrelflight's shoulder, explaining, "You need to be careful with the grey tom, Squirrelflight. I don't know what exactly it is yet, but he's very weak.". Thoughtful for a moment, the ginger Queen snorted, "It doesn't matter what it is. Any son of mine will be a fighter. He'll be twice as stubborn as his littermates if he needs to be.".
When Squirrelflight finished her sentence, Floss leapt to her paws, strangely offended, "Don't you dare call him your son!", she growled, "He's Leafpool's kit.". Before anyone could stop her, the loner restlessly paced around the three bundles, her true thoughts flooding out, "I've seen how much she loves them and no stupid Clan's rule should change that. You have no right to stop her from being a mother.".
Leafpool begged, "Floss, stop! Squirrelflight's my littermate. I'll always be close to my kits as their kin, even if it's not as their mother. This is what I want!". Halting, Floss studied her like an owl waiting to strike from a branch. She spoke deep questions aloud, ones Leafpool didn't want to ask herself, "Is this actually what you want? Are the Clans really worth so much?".
A fox-length away, Squirrelflight's back arched in fury. Through gritted teeth, she was about to let off a furious remark, but Leafpool swiftly put her tail over her mouth. The brown tabby hated seeing her sister and friend arguing because of her. Leafpool hastily answered for herself, "They're the home I was born and raised in. And my clanmates are relying on me as their Medicine cat. Loyalty to them is essential, or cats' very lives could be at risk. ".
Stepping beside them, Daisy raised her head proudly. Unlike the two sisters, Dasiy's voice didn't quiver, explaining to Floss from a place of true understanding. " I know their way of life is strange to us and it can be overwhelming at times.", the cream she-cat admitted, "Though after living with them, they've given Berrypaw and his littermates skills we could only dream of. Every tom and she-cat do their part in raising the Clan's young. Leafpool will be no different. She'll be able to visit the Nursery and play with her kits at any time.".
Leafpool half-expected Floss to snatch up the kits and flee back to the Horse Place. However, the loner didn't, only the standing there motionless, unsure what to do. It was so silent, they could hear the Wind swirling around them, ruffling the rough grass and swaying the Oak branches. Was Starclan attempting to send a message through the breeze?
However, there was no need for that. Floss sighed in defeat, giving the three kittens she helped bring into the world- One last lonely look. Scuffing the earth with her claws, Floss abruptly snorted, "Very well, they're your kits, not mine. Just take good care of them", her voice cracking at the end. Without glancing back, Floss broke into a sprint. Her powerful muscles carrying her swiftly up the barren hills, her pelt fading into the withered grass.
"I'll try to see you soon!", Leafpool weakly called out as Floss disappeared over the ridge. Gone. Had she even heard her? The friendship they'd kindred over the past moon, flickering out into embers. Though Leafpool couldn't blame her. From an outsider's perspective, this was difficult to understand. Possibly, The Clans were blind fools for obsessing about heritage. Possibly, Floss was filled with the righteous anger Leafpool should feel, but too cowardly to.
It was a complicated mess and Leafpool couldn't be allowed it to end like this. At some point, she would find the excuse to revisit the Horse Place. Thankfully, Daisy brought them out of the awkwardness, "Please don't judge her too harshly. Sometimes she is too intense, but in the end, she's just trying to do what's right." Squirrelflight gave herself serval uncomfortable licks. Unlike Leafpool, she wasn't afraid to voice her thoughts aloud, "I'm not planning too. In a situation like this, I doubt a right answer even exists."
Then, there was a shift in the atmosphere, as a new flurry of snow came piling down in large sheets. Instantly, the kits clambered up Leafpool's paws, trying to reach the warmth of her belly. Daisy upturned their fur the wrong way, to help keep them warm, "The poor scraps must be freezing!", she exclaimed, "Squirrelflight- Shouldn't we get them into the Nursery Soon? Or they could-"
Before Daisy could reference death, Squirrelflight intervened, "You're right, we need to get going - Before a nosy Patrol spots us. And anyway, I want to see the look on Brambleclaw's face!". Already acting like their mother, Squirrelflight gently grasped Feather by the scruff, ready for the journey to Thunderclan camp - Their home. The grey tabby didn't even react to this new cat carrying him. That way, Leafpool was ensured her litter would accept Squirrelflight.
After Daisy loaded a dozing Crow on Squirrelflight's back, she blinked in confusion at Leafpool. "So where will you be going now?".
The Medicine cat shrugged, "It'll be too suspicious if I return with you two, so I'll wait a few more days." Where she went, who knows. Without kits, anywhere would be sortable, as long as it had shelter and prey. Though she couldn't go back to the Horse Place. Leafpool wanted to spend this time in isolation. Needing a glimpse into the possible future of exile, if it ever came to that.
Squirrelflight gave an understanding nod, her voice muffled as she held Feather, "Take all the time you need.". Nuzzling each other a final time, the sisters went their separate ways.
