Another short chapter! And perfectly in time according to my schedule!

A noticeable chill had settled with the end of leaf-fall, but at the moment, fury kept Snaildapple warm. He was fuming, and the strength of his anger must have been coming out in waves because not even Pricklesong had said a word.

In these moments, he missed Heatherrump, his calm behaviour and his reassuring ways. But the older medicine cat wasn't there anymore, Pricklesong was silent and Blossomstar would be as disappointed as he was, so he would clear up his feelings on the matter later – preferably with friends and without prying ears.

He glared at Springstripe, who shrank even more as if she could disappear behind the medicine cat if she tried hard enough. Her injuries were superficial, but large patches of fur had been torn off; and it would certainly scar. Her pelt would grow back, or so Pricklesong had said, which was good news at least. Well, physically because regarding what she was facing, there was no saving. Worry would have quenched the anger, but the young warrior wasn't in danger so the deputy snarled at her.

"What were you thinking?!"

She cowered even more, avoiding his eyes as the medicine cat adjusted a last layer of cobwebs.

"Attacking a dog? Alone? Not even on our territory?"

"I just thought-"

"No, you didn't think! It was tied to its Twoleg! If you had stayed near the border instead of jumping in range, this wouldn't have happened," Snaildapple sighed. "You're lucky that it's not serious and no one else was injured. But you still need to learn where your responsibilities lie. For the time of your recovery, you'll share the apprentices' cleaning duties. After, Blossomstar and I will decide if you are ready to resume your role as a warrior."

Springstripe didn't protest despite a light glint of defiance briefly crossing her green eyes. The deputy hated to punish his fellow Clanmates, of course. Still, such an inconsiderate act could have had a much higher price, possibly even a death, and the tabby she-cat needed to understand it. He could see why a young warrior would be eager to prove themselves – he had been there himself – but blindly attacking a dog wasn't the way.

On his way out of the den, he met Baypaw who nodded at him sheepishly. It was clear that she had purposefully stayed outside to avoid further humiliation for her sister. With another sigh, he gently flicked her ear with his tail.

"Go on, I'm done shouting. Please, try to encourage her to behave, alright? It might work better if it's you."

"If it was so easy…"

He snorted as she disappeared behind the brambles. Then, breaking into a run, he joined Blossomstar in her den. When she saw his face, she patted the space next to her, inviting him to sit. Once they had settled properly and she had begun licking behind his ears in broad strokes, Snaildapple finally spilled the story.

"You'll never believe what happened with Springstripe! We were on a patrol, near the Twolegs' nest and…"

There are two more short chapters before we dive back into angst and drama... I hope you're ready!