Scarlet river

chapter 1 .................................................................................................................................................... ..... The moon was a sliver in the sky, only dimly shining in a wintry night. Darkness clung to the snow-covered forest below; deep shadows lying beneath the bare, black branches. Through thick swathes of snow a kitten struggled forward. Her head barely cleared the surface of the white substance and she shivered in the cold, chilled to the bone. Her brown silver-striped coat was plastered to her sides, revealing a jutting ribcage. She had been running for many suns and moons now, relying on instinct and a darker resource...one that the kit tried hard to ignore with little success. She had long since lost her brothers and sister, and had been forced to run away alone, or risk sharing their fate. She would have chosen the latter, but she had made a promise, and this was what drove her forward. She took another faltering step, her paws numb.  I have to get help. She thought faintly. Her next paw-step slipped. She fell into the heavy drifts, weak. Through half-closed eyes, she stared up through the bare arms of the trees.

The sky was dark and clouded, the claw-like moon half covered. She struggled to get up, but it was all for not. She had no strength left. After pushing herself for moons, she had finally reached the end. Please! Mother help me! Someone help me! I can’t die here…I can’t. Not before I… Her vision

was fading, her thoughts drifting away. Slowly, the white snow was engulfed in darkness.For a moment, the kit did not know where she was. She dimly recalled collapsing into the icy drifts, but it seemed as though she had somehow survived. For the first time in what felt like forever, the kit did not feel the constant ache of hunger in her stomach. A warm draft ruffled her fluffy coat. Cat scent drifted on the breeze, tickling her nose. Opening her eyes, the kitten found herself in a clearing, the encircling trees heavy with leaves, and the sound of prey alive around her. Where am I? Wasn’t it leaf-bare? The she-kit struggled to her paws and looked around, confusion clouding her thoughts.“Do not be afraid.”The kitten whipped around to face the speaker, claws unsheathed. A beautiful tabby she cat stood before her, fur seeming to radiate light. The she-cat’s blue eyes were like deep pools, and the kit drowned in their calm depths. Slowly, the kit found herself relaxing. “Where am I?” the kit inquired. “You are safe.” The she-cat said, ignoring her question. “You have died, but your destiny has not yet been fulfilled. We will grant your soul passage back to earth, but you must keep your promise.”“My soul? I’m dead?! Wait, what do you mean?!”

The kit’s heart was thumping with fear. The she-cat’s eyes softened, and the kit relaxed. “You will understand soon, kit. For now, return. Help is here.” The she-cat bent her slender neck forward and touched noses with the kit. Warmth spread through her body and she closed her eyes “Is it dead? It’s body is cold!” “Where did it come from?”
“Shh! Quiet, both of you! It’s obviously a lost kit, we must bring it back to camp. Lightstar will know what to do about it.”
“It’s moving!”
The kit slowly opened her eyes, blinking against the sudden bright sunlight. As her pupils narrowed, adjusting, she made out the outline of three silhouettes. Her vision cleared. The largest silhouette was a ginger tom, his fur flecked with white. The two smaller shapes were a young silver she-cat and a brown tabby tom.
“Hello kit, where did you come from?” The ginger asked gently.
The kit's first instinct was to get away from these cats as fast as possible. It was never good to trust. Best attack and get away...but in her current state, there was little she could do. She observed the three cats for a moment, eyes narrowed. Gazing into the blue eyes of the large ginger tom, the kit found only kindness there. After a moment’s hesitation, the kit buried her distrust and struggled to a sitting position. She tried to speak, but her voice was hoarse. She coughed.
“Come on. We’re going to take you back to our camp. I’m sure that you will be cared for there.”
“What?! But it’s a loner! Or a kittypet! We can’t take it back to camp!”
“I told you to hush Volepaw! It is a kit, and the warrior code dictates we help all kits, be them loners, kittypets, or from other clans.”
“Sorry, Robinfire.” The tabby muttered.
The kit listened to this exchange in mystification. What are they talking about? Warrior code? Camp? Clans? These thoughts were pushed away as a wave of hunger sent the kit into a bought of nausea. The ginger, Robinfire, steadied her with a comforting paw. The kit fell over again despite his efforts. She attempted to regain her feet, but her dizziness had not passed. Robinfire grabbed her by the scruff and tried to lift her, then gestured to Volepaw to help her onto the ginger tom’s back instead. The kit was far too tired to complain as Robinfire straightened.
“Can’t be a kittypet this one.” Robinfire commented, “she’s far too thin even for her size, and she smells of the forest.”
The kit hung limply as she was carried through the forest. The snow had melted somewhat upon contact with the sun, but still lay thickly upon the forest floor.
As they walked, the two younger cats conversed in lowered tones. The kit was easily able to eavesdrop.
"She looks only a few moons younger than us!"
"Yeah, she's about the right age to become an apprentice..."
"I suppose that means she can't be from another clan. No kit who is about to become an apprentice would be stupid enough to try exploring another clan's territory."
"Than where did she come from? I saw a scar above her eye when her fur shifted...wonder where it came from?"
"Maybe we'll find out?"
The two cats fell silent, as if pondering her backstory. The kit felt a prick of irritation, but then again, she knew how curious they must be. All the same, she wished she could tell them to stop talking about her as if she couldn't hear.
It was not long before the kit became overpowered by the smell of cats. She had not scented this many all together since…she shivered at the memory, her heart beginning to pound. She could only hope that these cats were as friendly as Robinfire. The forest was beginning to thin up ahead, and sunlight reflected off the white snow. Dimly, the kit remembered that it had been night-time when she had collapsed. How long was I asleep? She recalled the beautiful she-cat’s words in her dream, ‘…you have died…We will grant your soul passage back to earth.’ Is that really true? Did I die?
The kit’s thoughts were interrupted as the four cats pushed their way through a bramble barrier. When they emerged, the kit couldn’t help but stare in wonder at the “camp”. There were many cats, all looking curiously at the newcomers. Great rocky walls rose on all sides, forming a circular trench in the ground. Bushes, bare in winter, draping over the sides of the walls, hanging down into the clearing. More cats were emerging from bushes and woven bramble dens. A few elderly cats were emerging from a den woven into the branches of a fallen tree. The tree stretched across one half of the clearing, looking as though it had fallen off the edge of the wall and become stuck at some point in the past.
“Robinfire!” A voice drew the kit’s attention to the edge of the clearing. A majestic white she-cat with sharp green eyes emerged from a cave at the top of a ledge. A pathway of fallen rocks led up to the ledge, and the white she-cat slowly descended the pathway as she called, “What is that you’re carrying?”
Robinfire gently bent, allowing the kit to slide off his back onto the snow-covered floor. The kit wrapped her tail around her paws in a weak attempt to protect herself from these unfamiliar cats. Strangely, upon contact with the snow, she did not feel cold. She had no time to dwell on this as the ginger tom replied,
“It is a kit, Lightstar. We found her half dead in the forest, near the Windclan border. It seems as though she traveled a long distance to get here.”
The white cat’s eyes regarded the kit with sympathy. The kit turned and licked her fur awkwardly, uncomfortable under the green gaze. Out of the corner of her eye, the kit watched the white she-cat, Lightstar, jump down the last of the tumbled rocks and gracefully pad across the clearing.
“Is it a lost Windclan kit?”
“I do not smell any trace of Windclan on it.” Robinfire replied.
Lightstar nodded before returning her gaze to the kit.
“Greetings kit. What is your name?” Lightstar asked gently.
The kit did not reply immediately, eyes scanning Lightstar for any sign of ill intent. When she detected nothing, the kit cleared her throat, determined not to cough. She straightened, swaying on weak paws, and replied hoarsely.
“My name’s River.”  Lightstar nodded. “Where do you come from?”          River faltered. On her journey, she had been so intent on warning someone about her origins, but now, under the watchful green gaze, it was difficult to say. More cats had gathered round, all staring intently at River. The kit felt her fur beginning to rise. They’re circling around. The exit is blocked. They may seem friendly but I can’t be sure…          Lightstar sensed her discomfort and turned to the small, grey she-cat who had taken part in discovering her.         “Silverpaw, will you please fetch this kit some freshkill, and moss soaked in water?”         Silverpaw dipped her head, “Yes, Lightstar.”         River watched. She felt the need to protest, to assert that she could look after herself, but her rumbling stomach disagreed.          “River,”          River turned to Lightstar once more.          “When you are ready to talk, you can tell Deeplake, she is our medicine cat. You will be staying with her until you have recovered strength.”          River, again, felt the need to protest, but realized that she could barely stand. She was in no position to deny such hospitality. Weakly, River bowed her head. It seemed the respectful thing to do.         “Thank you…” she mewed.         Lightstar nodded and walked away, her muscles rippling beneath a sleek white pelt. A large scare ran along the leader’s foreleg. River stared after her in awe. She had met plenty of powerful cats, but never one so elegant.          Left alone under the curious gaze of many cats, River felt a familiar distrust and wariness building inside of her. She needed to hide, or at least show these cats that she was not weak. She flexed her claws, hoping that would at least give the impression she was prepared to defend herself.         “Here,”         River jumped and looked up to find Silverpaw. The she-cat’s silver eyes sparkled with amusement.          “Fresh-kill, see?”         She pushed a mouse toward River with one grey paw. River’s mouth watered with the warm smell of the mouse and she could not resist instantly digging into the meal. It was more delicious and fat than any she had tasted before. Even in leaf-bare this forest is rich with healthy prey. After finishing it rapidly, she sat up and licked her lips, embarrassed.         “Thank you.” River mumbled.         Silverpaw let out a small mrrow of laughter.         “There’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Every cat get’s hungry, and you look like you haven’t eaten in a moon!”          River blinked gratefully at the grey she-cat.          “Silverpaw, you should know better!”          River whipped around at the harsh voice, claws unsheathed. A long legged black and white queen stood before her. The queen gazed down at River in sympathy, light green eyes tender.                 “This kit must be warmed immediately. How long do you think she’s been freezing out in the forest, hmm?”         Silverpaw lashed her tail indignantly.         “She looked half starved Dappletail! And you heard Lightstar! She asked me to get River prey! Do you want me to do two things at once?!”          “Of course not!” Dappletail snapped back.         “I-I’m fine!”  River stammered, completely bewildered. Never had she heard two cats fight over a kindness. “I just need some rest, that’s all! I’ll warm up, it’s okay!”          Dappletail crouched down and looked at River sternly.         “It is most certainly not okay! My daughter should have taken you to a warm den immediately. A kit should not be forced to sit out in this weather for very long.”          Before River could protest, Dappletail gave her a swift lick on her head. River backed away, astonished by the motherly gesture. An ache of pain and sorrow shot through her, and before she realized, tears were stinging her eyes. River blinked rapidly, trying to clear them.          “You see! She’s cold as death!” Dappletail exclaimed.         Silverpaw stepped forward.         “Fine! I was about to take River to Deeplake’s den anyway! Come on.”          River followed Silverpaw across the clearing to a crack in the wall on the other side of the clearing. She glanced behind her briefly and saw Dappletail watching their progress.         “Sorry about that. My mother is very demanding. Nothing is ever enough for her!”          “Oh…” River was unsure how to respond, so she remained silent as Silverpaw pushed her way into the den, tail flicking. Lichen hung over the entrance, and River slipped between the fronds. The cave beyond was warm and comfortable, smelling strongly of herbs. Despite the chill outside, the lichen protected the space from the cold. Shafts of light illuminated her surroundings, and River noticed an unusually small, slender tortoiseshell she-cat sat at the far side of the clearing. Her coat was many shades of dark colors, like an autumn night. The she cat turned as they entered, her pale yellow eyes sparkling happily.          “Hello! I heard from Larkmoon that we had a new arrival. Greetings little one.”          River nodded, paws pricking with wariness. It was all so strange. The cats here were being so nice, and everything was happening so fast. River recalled yet again the beautiful she-cat’s words in her dream ‘Help is here…” Maybe I’ll be safe here… She was swept away by the thought, living with friendly cats that shared their freshkill and their dens…it sounded too good to be true. As if to prove that, the kit’s mind flashed to a dark memory; Blood dripping from sharp claws; a screech of terror. She shook her head, shivering involuntarily.          Deeplake noticed this and came forward.          “It’s okay. There’s no need to be afraid.” She placed her thin tail on River’s shoulders and instantly went rigid. Her eyes widened and she stared in horror at River for a moment. River, startled, jumped away from the medicine cat.          “A scarlet…riv…er” Deeplake croaked.          River stared at her in bewilderment. What?!           Silence fell for a moment, River and Deeplake staring at each other, before Silverpaw broke the stillness.             “What in Starclan’s name are you two so worked up about?! What happened Deeplake?! What did you see?!”          Deeplake shook her head. River blinked, trying to calm down. She turned and licked her ruffled fur, watching Deeplake warily all the while.          “Nothing. It’s fine, Silverpaw. Will you tell Lightstar that I will see her later today, after this little one has gotten some rest?”         Silverpaw studied Deeplake for a moment, dubious, then dipped her head and withdrew from the den.          “Come.” Deeplake said, beckoning.          River cautiously followed the medicine cat to a small moss bed in the corner, still shaken from the experience.          “You may sleep here.” Deeplake said. River noticed that her eyes were unfocused, distracted by an inner thought. “Oh!” Deeplake started, making River jump.          The medicine cat darted into a small crevice that River had not noticed before. Emerging, Deeplake deposited two small black seeds before her. “Eat these. They will help you sleep.”         River surveyed the seeds for a moment before lapping them up. Despite the strange moment before, she saw no real reason why Deeplake would want to feed her something dangerous. If these cats wanted to hurt her, then they would have done so already…right?          Feeling suddenly exhausted, River pushed away her unease and settled into the nest of moss. She was already drifting before she had closed her eyes. A familiar scent wafted to River’s nose and she opened her eyes. She was in the green-leaf place. The grey tabby she-cat River had seen before was padding toward her.          “Hello again, kit.”          “Hello…” River murmured uncertainly.          Amusement lit the she-cat’s blue eyes, but her expression remained neutral.         “Do not fear. I am an ancestor of yours, and know much about the cats you have taken shelter with. You have nothing to fear, they will not hurt you. In fact, your destiny is now intertwined with that of the clan cats.”         River shuffled her paws in confusion. It was all so strange. The she-cat laughed gently. “You will understand soon, kit. All will be well if you keep your promise.”         River shivered involuntarily. She did not understand why. The breeze that ruffled her fur was warm and soothing, and the sound of the she-cat's voice was reassuring.          “What's your name?” River managed to ask.         “You may call me Forerunner, because that is what I am. I am your forerunner, kit.”         River opened her mouth to ask Forerunner why exactly she had been brought back from the dead, but a crack sounded to her right, and River woke suddenly.         Voices echoed faintly from the other side of the den, and Riverpaw shook her head to clear the dream, pricking her ears. She could not see the cats, but knew they were just across the den, conversing in the shadows. She strained to make out what they were saying.          “…sure of this?” the voice, River recognized, belonged to Lightstar.         “Yes.” She heard Deeplake respond, “that kit was sent by Starclan for some reason or another. The vision I received was not clear.”         River’s heart was pounding. They were talking about her! She listened intently for Lightstar’s reply. There was a moment of silence.         “Perhaps you should visit the Moonpool. I’m sure that Starclan will have answers.”          “I agree. I will leave at sun high. Where will the kit stay while I’m gone?”         “She will be moved to the nursery.”         “A-Are you sure? She may be a threat. What I saw-“          “Does not overrule the fact that she is just a kit. I doubt she will be able to harm any of the other kits, especially with the queens watching.” Lightstar reasoned. There was another stretch of silence.         “Alright well…sleep well, Lightstar.”         “Sleep well, Deeplake.”         River waited in stunned silence. She did not understand. Why was the medicine cat so frightened of her? Why did she think she was a threat? What did Deeplake see when they touched?          River heard the medicine cat pad silently past her and settle into her nest. Moments later, Deeplake’s breathing evened, and River knew she was asleep. River shifted. Her mind whirled with thoughts, but she could not make sense of any of them. Finally, she resigned that she would think more in the morning. Closing her eyes again, River drifted away. Early morning sunlight seeped through the lichen, striping her pelt. River opened her eyes and stretched, pushing herself into a sitting position. She was still weak from her journey, and as she padded across the den, her muscles ached in protest. River looked around, surprised to find the cave empty. Deeplake must be talking to Lightstar…or preparing to visit this ‘moonpool’. With a pang of fear and anxiety, River remembered the ominous discussion she had heard last night. “she might be a threat…” Could Deeplake hold some mystical power? Could she have gazed into River’s past and seen the blood there? River shook her head to clear it.  Reaching the cave entrance, she poked her head through the curtain of lichen.         There were a few cats in the clearing, however River did not recognize Silverpaw, Volepaw, Robinfire, Lightstar or Deeplake among them. Cautiously, she pushed her way out of the den and crept warily across the clearing. A few heads turned in her direction, and River began to regret her decision to leave the den.          “Hi!” A voice sounded behind her.          River spun around, fur on end and claws unsheathed; only to relax when she saw it was only another kitten. The kitten had a dappled black coat quite similar to Deeplake’s and seemed about the same age as River, a little under six moons old.                “Are you the loner everyone is talking about?” the kit mewed curiously.         River nodded, trying to seem confident. I really shouldn’t be acting like such a scaredy-cat. River scolded herself, then felt a pang of sadness.         “Well, what’s your name?” the dark tortoiseshell kit persisted.         “R-River.” River responded, taken aback by the kit’s abruptness.         “So, you’re not from the other clans then?” the kit questioned.         River felt a prick of annoyance. She didn’t even know what Clans were!         “No. What’s your name?” River asked, wanting to shift the subject from herself.         “I’m Echokit! I’m going to be Clan leader one day!” Echokit mewed proudly. River cocked her head in confusion.         “Okay, that’s…cool I guess…” she muttered.         “Oh, you don’t know what Clan leader is do you?” Echokit said, “You met Lightstar, right? She’s our clan leader! She has nine lives and can talk to Starclan! That’s why I want to be leader! Because then I can talk to all our warrior ancestors, maybe then I can meet some of those famous leaders the elders tell me about! Like Firestar!”         “Okay…” River mewed, overwhelmed. Echokit barely took any notice, rambling on.         “He was an amazing leader, even if he was a kittypet! You know, cat’s that come from Twolegplace. Anyway, I-“         “Echokit! Come- Oh, who’s that?”         River pricked her ears as another kit trotted over. This one’s coat was light grey with marks of white.         “Stonekit! This is River, the loner that Robinfire, Silverpaw and Volepaw found!” Echokit explained excitedly.         Stonekit padded up and examined River with curiosity in his dark blue eyes. River shuffled her paws nervously, her fur prickling.         “Hello! So, where do you come from?” Stonekit asked.         River was relieved to find his tone friendly and calm, unlike Echokit.         “A long way away.” River mewed.         “Oh, did you run away?” Stonekit questioned.         River nodded.         “What for?” Echokit put in.         River hesitated. She couldn’t quite figure out a way to describe why she had left, and even if she had, she didn’t feel that these two kits could understand. River was saved from answering by a call from across the clearing.         “River!”          Deeplake was padding toward the three kits. River searched the medicine cat’s eyes for signs of resentment. After what she had heard last night, she half expected the medicine cat to gaze at her with hostility and suspicion. However, she only saw a twinkle of kindness in Deeplake’s pale yellow eyes. She must be good at hiding her unease… River thought bitterly.         “River, Lightstar would like to see you. Do you feel well enough to talk?” Deeplake inquired.         River nodded and began to follow Deeplake to the tumbled rocks.         “Nice meeting you River!” Stonekit called after her.         River glanced behind her, unsure what to say in return. Before she could say anything, Echokit beckoned her brother off across the camp. River sighed, slightly disappointed.         Deeplake helped her up the rocks to the Clan leader’s den, and by the time they reached the leader’s cave, River was panting, muscles aching. They took a short rest before Deeplake beckoned her inside the cave, and River stepped forward cautiously.          The den was smaller then the medicine cat’s, but the rocky ceiling above was much higher overhead. Lightstar crouched in a bed of soft moss, her long white tail wrapped around her.          “Hello, River.” Lightstar said kindly.          River dipped her head and sat down. The leader’s green gaze fixed upon her, and River flattened her ears unintentionally.          “There is no need to feel uncomfortable. We do not wish to harm you. Quite the opposite, in fact.” Lightstar began. River pricked her ears. “I would like to know where you came from, and why it is that you traveled such a long way, alone. If you are still reluctant to talk, we may hold this conversation till later, when you feel more comfortable.”          River gulped. Now was the time. She had wanted so badly to keep her promise before: to warn someone of the danger that was coming, and to ask for his or her help. Taking a deep breath to calm her thudding heart, she prepared herself.         "I came looking for someone’s help.” River said. She hated how her voice still croaked after so many days of disuse.          “Go on.” Lightstar encouraged.         “You see, I-I came from a city that is ruled by a group of cats: the Legion.” River explained. “They were vicious and power hungry, and my mother told me that they were planning to try conquering territory outside the city too. She made me promise to travel as far as I could and get help, so that no one else would die. I promised that I would rescue my family…”          Lightstar remained silent, urging her on with her eyes. River gulped again, unsure how to continue.         “How far away is this…city? By city, do you mean Twolegplace?” Lightstar asked.         “It’s a long way away…it took me about a moon to get here. And if by Twoleg you mean Man, then yes. The city is a very large Twolegplace.”         Lightstar looked thoughtful. “Would these cats you speak of endanger my clan?”         River looked away uncertainly. She felt her heart sink. Now that she had told the leader her goal, she suddenly felt as though the whole gesture was pointless. Were the cats a threat so far from the city? Would they advance this far? She couldn’t be sure. Perhaps the more immediate forests around the city would be enough for them…         “River?” Lightstar prompted.         “I-I’m not sure…” River said. “They were very vicious…”         “Well, if it is not a threat, than I cannot do anything about it.”         “But…but you have to help! My family is back there! I left them but if I can get your help then maybe-“         “I’m sorry.” Lightstar interrupted firmly, a hint of regret in her voice, “but I take care of my clan and my clan alone. I realize that seeking help and saving the cats you left behind means a lot to you, but I cannot ask my warriors to go off to a Twolegplace so far away to fight a battle that is not theirs. I’m sorry.”          River gazed down at her paws with a lump in her throat. Her claws scratched the stony floor and she felt tears sting her eyes. She pushed them back. I’m sorry Mom, she thought, I can’t…I can’t save you…I can’t save Cloud…I couldn’t save any of you…I’m…I’m useless…           A tail rested briefly on River’s shoulders, making her start. She looked up and saw Deeplake gazing down at her with deep sympathy.         “I’m sorry, River, but what you ask is too much for this clan.”         River nodded glumly. Suddenly, she was struck by a dreadful thought.         “Are you going to make me leave now?!” She burst out.          Lightstar’s eyes widened in surprise.         “No, but I was sure you would want to leave. If for no other reason than to find other cats that might help you.”         River looked away. She had somehow not considered this. Could there be someone else out there who would help her? She had barely run into anyone else on her journey here, and when she had, they had been single rogues or house-cats. No, this was the first large group she had encountered, and she couldn’t keep traveling farther away…any groups she found would refuse for the same reason Lightstar had refused. She had to admit that she had travelled too far…if she wanted a chance at finding help, she’d have to double back and head in the direction of the city again. The thought made her tremble.         Lightstar watched her.         “Yes, I see.” The leader murmured.         River flinched. Was the white she-cat really able to interpret her thoughts so easily?         “River, I would happily offer you a place in the clan.” Lightstar told her.         River’s eyes widened. Why?!         Lightstar caught the question and continued, “I believe that you have the makings of a fine warrior, and an asset to us,” She explained, “after all, you were able to travel this far on your own. If you were to join Thunderclan, you could build a life here. The cats of this clan are loyal, they would fight and hunt by your side every second of the day. You could build a home here. I realize you may hesitate because of your family, so I will not push you to make a decision right now. I simply ask you to consider it. It is an option to stay here, with us.”         River was overwhelmed. She had only just arrived! How could the leader possibly expect her to know whether she wanted to join them or not?! She had a family that was counting on her! She couldn’t just forget them and become part of a new family! Could she…?         Suddenly, River was struck by a realization. She did want to join them…She wanted to be part of this family more than anything. Since she had arrived, the clan cats had shown her nothing but kindness. She recalled the argument Silverpaw and Dappletail had had, and felt a burst of happiness. Could I ever have a relationship like that with one of these cats, arguing over a kindness? she wondered. Then she remembered. The faces of her brother, Cloud, and her mother were flashing in her mind. How could she turn her back on those she had left behind? She couldn’t just leave them there! They were still in the claws of the Legion, still in danger!         “I’m sorry but…I can’t give up on my family yet. I have to try saving them! I left my brother and my mother back there! They could be dead or dying and I don’t want to be helpless!”         Lightstar gazed at her for a moment.          “If you would like to leave and try to help your family, I ask that you remain with us until you have enough strength to make the journey to find other help. Remember, no matter how much perseverance you have, you are still only a kit. Consider my offer.”          River dipped her head.          “I will, Lightstar,” she promised. Deeplake left for the “Moonpool”, and River was taken to the nursery, her head still spinning with possibilities. Would she join Thunderclan? She could build a life, a real life, and never have to remember those terrible things again. Or would she leave this place and search for others who might help her? It was certainly less appealing, but how could she live with herself if she left those she loved behind? She’d be a coward if she stayed!         There were three queens in the nursery, two nursing kits, and the other awaiting hers. Stonekit and Echokit welcomed River instantly. The two bounced excitedly when they heard she’d be staying with them, even for only a little while. Their mother, Leafheart, was kind and soft spoken, and simply purred happily when her kits brought River over to meet her. Leafheart was a tabby ginger-brown she cat with bright blue eyes. The other queen with kits, a white and silvery striped she-cat, did not say anything, and regarded River with cold suspicion. River was instantly wary under the watchful gaze of the silver queen, but Stonekit assured her that the queen, Icepelt, was simply protective of her kits. The final queen was Swiftflight, a lean she-cat with light brown fur. She dipped her head to River, sympathy in her eyes. Although she did not speak, River knew the queen was accepting of her presence.         “So, you talked to Lightstar? That’s so cool! I mean, I see her every day around the camp, but she’s our leader so she doesn’t talk to us and she’s so pretty and I think she’s just so awesome-“         “I’m sorry about Echokit,” Stonekit whispered as his sister babbled in front of them. He sat beside River in the nursery. “Her personality is a bit tough to get used to.”         “It’s alright. It’s kind of…nice, actually.” River found herself relaxing as Echokit continued to ramble. She hadn’t ever met anyone like this bubbly, hyperactive tortoiseshell, and honestly the kit’s personality was rather amusing to River. However, after a while Stonekit couldn’t seem to take it anymore.         “Why don’t we play catch? That’s a fun game that doesn’t involve talking!”         Echokit didn’t notice her brother’s jab…or maybe she didn’t care.         “Oooh yeah! It’ll be much more fun with three instead of two!” the tortoiseshell kit darted out of the nursery entrance. “I’ll get the mossball!”         Stonekit followed her more slowly, waving his tail at River.         “Come on!”         “Me play?” River stammered, surprised. “I-I shouldn’t-“         Stonekit looked at her for a moment before grinning.         “Come on, River, its just catch! Anyone can play, and we’d love to have a third for once. Please?”         River stared at the grey tom for a moment. She didn’t realize she was smiling.         “Okay.”         As she followed the kit out, she heard a slight sigh of relief.         “It was getting a bit too rowdy in here anyway.” Leafheart chuckled, closing her eyes with a contented smile.         River and Stonekit didn’t pay the queen any heed, dashing into the clearing where Echokit waited for them, bouncing in place.         “I got a great ball of moss from Deeplake! Sis says it’s the best one in her moss pile!”         “I don’t think there is such a thing as ‘best ball of moss’, Echo.” Stonekit laughed. “It’s all just moss!”         “Well moss this!” Echokit hooked the ball with a claw and flung it across the clearing.         Stonekit immediately darted away, jumping to catch the moss as it flew. He landed on three paws and twirled, flinging it back at his sister.         River watched the two, unsure how to join in. The last time she had played like this had been so long ago...could she…?         “River! This one’s for you!” Echokit exclaimed, interrupting her thoughts.         Before River could react, a ball of moss hit her in the face. She stumbled back, bewildered, and involuntarily swung at the air in front of her. It took her a moment to gather her wits, at which point she realized Echokit and Stonekit were laughing.         “You’re supposed to catch it, River! Not let it smack you in the face!” Echokit giggled.         River stared at the two, cheeks hot with embarrassment, before swallowing.         “Well…catch this!” She hooked the mossball and flung it up into the air with far too much force and no aim. The ball careened off to the side and hit a passing warrior in the head. River’s eyes widened, fur standing on end. “I-I’m sorry! I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean-“         The warrior, a young tom with a pitch-black pelt and blue eyes, looked down at the moss ball, then at River. A grin spread across his face.         “It’s no biggy, ‘paw.” He chuckled, flinging the moss ball back to her easily. “You kits have fun!”         River stared at the tom, heart still thumping. She had been prepared for the warrior to leap at her in anger. His nonchalant nature completely threw her off, and she didn’t even notice the moss ball roll to a stop at her paws.         “Thanks Blackpool!” Echokit called after the warrior as he padded away. The black tom waved his tail, and Echokit turned back to River. “Wanna try that throw again, Riv?”         River didn’t respond. She looked at the moss ball for a few long moments. The cats here really were nice, weren’t they? She really was safe…         The silver striped kit felt tears sting her eyes.         “Woah, are you okay?” Stonekit rushed forward, looking a little flustered. “We didn’t mean to tease you or anything! We were just-“         “Thanks…” River managed, sniffing. She shook her head and smiled at the two kits, pushing away the urge to cry. “Thank you.”         “Oh, okay…” Stonekit’s eyes flicked away and he shuffled his paws. Echokit beamed.         “No problem! But err…why are you thanking us?”         “You’re just…really nice.” River laughed.         Echokit waved her paw.         “Duh! We’re Thunderclan! Thunderclan is always nice!” Echokit meowed, bumping River’s shoulder playfully. “Now come on! Try that throw again! I know you can do it!”         River nodded and hooked the moss ball. As the game continued, River felt her fur lying flat again, and the she-kit managed to laugh as afternoon rays sparkled on the snow.              During her stay, River spent most of her time with Stonekit and Echokit. Echokit loved to bombard her with questions about where she came from and what the world outside of Thunderclan was like, but Stonekit was able to divert his sister’s attention long enough to give River some breathing room. The three played many games, often going until they were too tired to move, then huddling together to talk over some fresh-kill. For the first time in a long time, River felt as though she were an actual kit. She could tumble and play without having to worry, and she did not have to restrain herself from running and yowling with joy. During their games, River almost forgot that she was a foreigner in this clan. She could almost imagine she had grown up in Thunderclan, and that Stonekit and Echokit had been her friends since she was born.         Echokit loved to talk about past leaders and famous members of the clan, sharing everything she had heard from the elders. Stonekit explained much about the clans and the way they worked, and the more she learned, the more River loved the thought of clan life. It was all so wondrous: new adventures every day, friendship and loyalty, an honorable code to live by, and powerful ancestors to look after you. The code and Starclan fascinated her more than anything. As Stonekit explained what Starclan was, River gazed at the sky in amazement. Is Forerunner from my dream a Starclan cat? She said she was just my ancestor, and that she knew about the clans…so she’s not really a part of them I guess…but then maybe I descended from something like a clan… The idea made her heart flutter.         The next few days passed in a blur, however River could not remember a dull moment. She had become great friends with Stonekit and Echokit, and they had accepted her fully as a den-mate. As River curled into the soft bedding beside the two, she felt at peace, allowing herself to relax and drink in the sounds of the night forest outside. The brown kit closed her eyes, content.         River opened her eyes and found herself in the Greenleaf place. Forerunner was padding toward her, her pelt transparent yet rippling with light. River felt at ease with the she-cat now, and happily trotted forward to meet her.         “Forerunner!” She cried happily.         Forerunner, for the first time, did not greet her with a reassuring smile.         “River,” the she-cat began, her tone serious. River’s good mood plummeted. “Do you feel at home with the clan?”         River’s tongue went dry, but both she and her ancestor knew the answer. Forerunner nodded.         “Your destiny is intertwined with the cats you have met, River. You will experience many things with them, but first, you must fulfill your promise.”         “Do you mean…I must rescue my family? On my own?!”         “Kit, that is a mission which you must embark upon. Otherwise, you will never fulfill your purpose.”         River felt bewilderment welling inside of her.          “But how can I possibly do it on my own?! I’m a kit!”         “Yes, but that cannot, and will not stop you. Look inside, kit, and you will find the strength needed to make this journey. You are not alone.”         River didn’t know what to do. She felt a hint of resentment at her ancestor. Despite how little time she had really spent with the clan, she didn’t want to leave and shatter the joyful moments yet. She didn’t want to abandon Echokit and Stonekit… She had just learned to be happy again, couldn’t she have just a bit more time? But no…Forerunner was right. She had family depending on her…she had struggled for a moon on her own trying to help them, and she couldn’t just give up now!         With a flash of guilt, River nodded numbly. Forerunner bent her neck and touched noses with the kit. River’s thoughts instantly sank away, and she relaxed, warmth flooding through her. River woke with a start. Stonekit groaned beside her.          “River, no one can get a wink of sleep if you toss and turn like that!” he complained.          “Sorry…” River mumbled. She stretched experimentally. The aching pains she had felt before had faded, and she felt energy flowing through her. Despite this, River’s heart sank. She would have to leave once her full strength returned, and that was definitely soon. She glanced down at Stonekit and Echokit, still curled beside Leafheart, peaceful in sleep. River felt a strange ache in her heart, accompanied by a rush of fear. I’ll have to leave them…         River closed her eyes tightly. “Look inside, kit, and you will find the strength needed to make this journey.” The kit searched through her mind, through the tangle of emotions in her chest, and saw an image of her mother, bright green eyes dancing happily, and her brother, his white tail twitching playfully. They needed her. And she wasn’t going to let them down. River opened her eyes, new resolve flooding through her. Yes, when she was ready, she would go back. She didn’t need help, she just needed to sneak them out. After all, her mother had been able to get her out, why couldn’t she do the same?         At the back of her mind, she heard a dubious voice whisper, It’s a suicide mission, River! You can’t get past all those soldiers!         She shook her head vehemently. What else can I do but try?! Besides, I’m small and they won’t expect it. I’ve had training, I know how to slip by unnoticed.River felt a sense of determination. I can do it. I have to do it! All I needed was the courage to go back, and I have it now. Getting help isn’t going to work out, so I’ll just have to help myself.
         Stonekit woke a little while later, and the moment he woke, so did Echokit. Echokit was immediately bouncing about the nursery, bubbling with ideas for games. Finally, Leafheart ordered them outside.          “You two are getting far too big for this place. It’s about time you became apprentices.”         “Really?!” Echokit squealed. Icepelt grunted in protest at the exclamation, but Echokit took no notice.         “Can we have our apprentice ceremony right now?!”          Leafheart chuckled.          “No, my kit, but soon perhaps. I’ll have a word with Lightstar.”          The rest of the day, Echokit and Stonekit walked around telling everyone they would be apprentices soon. Echokit would babble with excitement while Stonekit sat calmly, pride gleaming in his eyes.  River followed them, unable to share their good mood. She continued to glance at the leader's den, knowing the time would come when she would journey up the tumbled rocks and tell the leader she had to leave. However, upon seeing her friends so ecstatic, she couldn’t help relaxing slightly. Stonekit came over to her.          “Will you be an apprentice too?” He asked in genuine curiosity.          River flinched. If she joined, maybe she would become an apprentice alongside Stonekit and Echokit…         “No, I have to leave soon.”          “Wait, What?! But…I thought-“         Suddenly, Deeplake appeared from the bramble-tunnel. She looked worn and tired, but nonetheless headed straight for Lightstar’s den, eyes set with purpose. River watched the medicine cat, not hearing what Stonekit said next. Deeplake had travelled to the Moonpool a few times over the last few days, returning with no word from Starclan, but obviously feeling it necessary to make the journey back just in case she finally got a reply.         River had learned what a trip to the Moonpool meant, with Starclan giving the medicine cats information about the future. However, it was said that these messages were always very cryptic. As River watched Deeplake climb the tumbled rocks to Lightstar’s den, she wondered if the obviously urgent news the medicine cat had finally received pertained to herself, and pondered the possibility of eavesdropping on the conversation. She shook away the thought.  No, I’m not part of this clan. Why would Starclan share information about me with Deeplake? But she was plagued with doubt.         If only she knew what was happening inside that den. Words from her first night in the clan were ringing in her ears. ‘That kit was sent by Starclan for some reason or another.’ She glanced around the clearing. Would it really hurt if I just snuck up there and listened? I’m not going to tell anyone, and it’s not like I’ll be staying much longer.          “River? Are you even listening?” Stonekit interrupted her thoughts.         “What?” River responded stupidly.          “I said I thought you liked it here! I thought you were going to stay with us.” Stonekit said. River felt a pang in her heart.          “It’s not that I don’t like it here,” she stuttered, “I just…It’s complicated okay?”         Stonekit stared at her for a moment, a bit of annoyance flashing in his eyes, but before he could say anything else, River asked hurriedly,         “Where’s the dirt place? I really need to go.”         “…It’s down that tunnel over there,” Stonekit responded in a mutter. He still looked like he wanted to talk to her, but she bounded away. As she reached the tunnel, she veered away and crept along the edge of the clearing until she reached the tumbled rocks. She made sure no one was watching before climbing up as silently as she could. She crouched outside the entrance and strained to hear the conversation inside.         “…guide the scarlet river, for it will bathe the clans in blood.”         River froze, fear coursing through her at the sound of those ominous words.          “Are you positive that is what Starclan said?” River heard Lightstar gasp.         “Yes, positive.”         “Who are these cats that will guide the scarlet river? Did Starclan give any details about them?”         “No…but they must be powerful, and they are definitely enemies of the clans…Perhaps…”          “What is it, Deeplake?!” Lightstar prompted when the medicine cat’s voice trailed away.         “Perhaps the Dark Forest is rising once again?”         Silence. River did not know what the Dark Forest was, but from the way Deeplake spoke the words, she knew it could not be anything good.         “No. The story goes that Firestar killed the leader of the Dark Forest cats. How could they possibly rise again without a leader?! Those of the Dark Forest are too chaotic to simply choose a replacement!”         “I don’t know…but it isn’t impossible. I’m sorry that I can’t be of more use Lightstar.”         “No, Deeplake. Do not blame yourself. We both know that Starclan’s prophecies are difficult to understand. Thank you for sharing this with me…”         “Lightstar…”         “Yes?”         “Do you think perhaps this has anything to do with that kit? After all, it was when I touched her that I received the sign.”         “Deeplake, I will not rule out that possibility but…how could that kit bathe the clans in blood? She’s still so young, and she seems quite normal. It makes no sense!”         “Please, think about it Lightstar.”         “I will…of course I will. Thank you, Deeplake.”          Deeplake emerged a moment later, and River quickly ducked into a crevice in the rocks, hoping the medicine cat would not scent her. She passed unaware, and River crept out cautiously The kit’s mind spun with what she had just heard. She crept down the tumbled rocks and slipped around the clearing until she reached the dirt-place tunnel. Was she the ‘river’ they spoke of? But how could that be?          Stonekit was waiting for her when she arrived at the dirtplace, his expression angry and slightly triumphant. River’s heart sank. He knows…         “You went and listen to the leader’s conversation, didn’t you!” He accused.         River tried desperately to think of a good accuse, an explanation, anything besides the truth. Nothing came. Defeated, River nodded.         “River, you can’t do that! It’s against the warrior code!”          I don’t live by your code, do I? she thought to herself, but did not voice the thought. It would only insult Stonekit, and she did not want to lose a friend.         “I had to hear what they said!” River insisted. Stonekit’s bristling fur began to lay flat, and his eyes darted to the side, as if pondering this. Finally, he cocked his head curiously and asked,         “What did they say?”          “Uh, well…I didn’t hear that much. It didn’t make any sense.” She stammered.         This only made Stonekit all the more curious. He glanced around, as if checking for eavesdroppers.          “Come on,” he whispered, gesturing with his bushy tail.          River followed her friend to a corner behind the nursery.         “All right, no one will hear us here. Tell me what you heard!”          “But I thought it was against the warrior code!” River retorted, rolling her eyes, “You sure changed your mind quickly!”         “Yeah, but you already broke the code, so telling me won’t make it any worse. It’s not like I’m a cat from another clan or something.”         River sighed.         “They mentioned…a message from Starclan and the Dark Forest. Do you know what that means?”         Stonekit's eyes widened.         “Great Starclan! The Dark Forest is where evil cats go when they die, because they aren’t welcomed with our warrior ancestors. What did they say exactly about the Dark Forest?!”         “They said something about it may ‘rise again’?” As River spoke those words, she shivered, and Stonekit’s eyes flashed with fear.         “Was that the message from Starclan? About the Dark Forest rising again?!”         “No, not exactly. Deeplake just mentioned the Dark Forest. She thought they might…have something to do with Starclan’s message… It was all so confusing. But no, the Dark Forest was just a guess at the meaning behind the message.” River tried to choose her words carefully. She thought it best her friend didn’t know about the strange scarlet river prophecy. Already this talk of the Dark Forest seemed to be getting to him, she would hate for him to become suspicious of her.         Stonekit relaxed slightly.          “Okay. So did…did they mention you at all?”         “Th-They didn’t. I thought they might, but…” River lowered her eyes. She still could barely make sense of what she heard. ‘Do you think perhaps this has anything to do with that kit?’ Deeplake had said that. The medicine cat, a wise and trusted member of Thunderclan, suspected River of being part of all this. Your destiny is intertwined with that of the clans. Forerunner’s words echoed in her mind.          River shook her head involuntarily.         “What is it, River? You look like something’s bothering you.”         River sighed.         “It’s nothing…”she mumbled. If she told Stonekit everything, he might get excited and insist she stay permanently, or he might want her gone sooner. Either reaction wouldn’t be good. She didn’t want that kind of pressure, not when there was so much at stake.           “Anyway!” She continued, trying to sound happy, “we better go back to the nursery before Leafheart notices we’re missing. Or worse, Echokit.”         “I’m right here!”          River’s eyes widened and her heart froze as Echokit emerged from around the nursery. She must have heard everything! River thought despairingly. If she was worried about Stonekit’s reaction to her possibly being a part of this, than she absolutely dreaded Echokit’s.         “You guys heard the leader’s conversation?! That’s so cool! I wonder what all this talk about the Dark Forest means…”          “I-It has nothing to do with you! Go away Echokit!” Stonekit stuttered furiously, recovering from shock.          “But it has nothing to do with you either, and you’re still talking about it!” Echokit retorted. “Why can’t I be part of it too?!”         “Because you’ll blab to the whole clan that we heard about a message from Starclan!”          “I won’t blab if you let me be part of this!” the tortoiseshell kit threatened. River felt her pulse run cold, and before she could stop herself, she burst out,         “But if you tell anyone, I could be kicked out of the clan early!” River instantly regretted saying anything.          Stonekit and Echokit looked at her with wide eyes.         “Really?” Echokit whispered.          For a moment, the trio sat in silence.          “Why do you have to leave at all…” Stonekit murmured. River looked at him. He met her gaze, his deep blue eyes burning. “Why can’t you stay with us? You like it here, don’t you?!”          “I do! You’re my friends…my only…but…Why are we even talking about this?!” River muttered. Of course the conversation went back to this…they couldn’t just leave it alone…         “We don’t want you to leave, that’s why! You may not have been here long, but you’re our friend!” Echokit insisted, giving River a gentle smile. River’s heart ached.         “Please, River! Tell us why you can’t stay!” Stonekit took a step forward, eyes pleading.         River couldn’t respond. Her mind spun with explanations, but she knew she couldn’t tell these kits anything. It would be better if they just didn’t know…if they just let her go and forgot her. They were going to be apprentices, right? They had lives of their own to live, why should they care about hers? And even if they had convinced themselves that they did care, she couldn’t drag them into it.         “I just can’t okay?!” River finally yowled. She sprang to her paws and ran out of the corner. She dashed into the medicine den and pushed into the little crevice that held the herbs. Curling her thick tail around herself, she gritted her teeth in frustration, holding back her tears. In her mind, she talked to Stonekit again.         Why can’t you stay?!         Because they’re dying, Stonekit! My family is dying. I’ve watched cats being torn apart in front of me, and I’m afraid that’s what will happen to them if I don’t go back there.         But why would you go back if it’s so dangerous! Why can’t you just stay here?! You could be part of our family!          No! I…         River faltered. She closed her eyes, feeling tears wet the fur on her cheeks despite her efforts to hold them in. She had always cried so easily…she hated that.         I love them. And I have to leave. I have to leave right now, because if I stay here any longer, my heart will split in half.         River pushed her way out of the herb crevice and padded toward the medicine den entrance. She nearly crashed into Deeplake.         “River! Where are you going? What’s happened?”          “I-I’m leaving. I have to go. Now.”         Deeplake’s eyes widened, then understanding filled their yellow depths.          “I see. Wait here.”         Deeplake went over to the crevice and reached inside.         “What did you do to these herbs! They’re all mixed up!”         “Sorry…” River muttered. She could not muster the strength to say more.          Deeplake did not respond, but River could sense her irritation. A moment later the medicine cat returned and placed a few leaves in front of her.          “Eat those.” She ordered. “They are traveling herbs, and you will need them for your journey.”         River dipped her head obediently and lapped up the herbs. The taste was morbidly disgusting, but River tried not to complain, scrunching up her face.         “Thank you.” She managed as she finished choking down the last of the herbs.         Deeplake nodded and gestured with her tail.         “We had best inform Lightstar that you’re leaving.” chapter 2 Lightstar did not protest when River told her she was leaving. The leader simply dipped her head and mewed,         “May Starclan light your path, River. I hope we see you again.”         River bowed in return,         “Thank you for your kindness…”          Deeplake led the way across the clearing to the bramble barrier. River hesitated as they reached the camp entrance. She glanced behind her, taking in the camp one last time, her eyes rested on the nursery at the far end of the clearing. She could not see Stonekit or Echokit. With a stab of sadness wished she did not have to leave on such bad terms with her friends. For a moment, she wondered if she should run back to say goodbye.          “Coming?” Deeplake prompted.         “Yes, sorry.” River responded. She shook herself. Goodbyes would only make herself and her friends hurt more, wouldn’t it? Besides, she was leaving the clan for good wasn’t she? Stonekit and Echokit would no longer be her friends.         The brown, silver-striped she-cat lowered her head and followed Deeplake through the bramble tunnel.         Deeplake left River at the farthest boundary line, close to the Windclan border. The two cats said farewell, and River stepped out of Thunderclan territory. As she walked away from the clans, she tried her hardest not to look back. I already have a family who need me.           The forest ahead looked dark and menacing despite pale sunlight shining between the branches.  Each shadow seemed to warn her to turn back, but River plunged forward anyway, her heart thumping with fear and anticipation. As the sun fell toward the horizon, rays becoming weaker in the grey sky, the she-cat began to slip into her old mind-set. After running for nearly a moon, she had taught herself what it took to survive as a loner. Since birth hostile creatures had surrounded her: creatures that would not hesitate to kill her if she showed weakness. Moons in the city had driven this lesson home, and now, as a loner again; she knew that she must raise her defenses, relying on all instincts to survive.         Stalking through the dark bare shrubbery, River realized just how much she had lowered her guard in the Thunderclan camp. She had changed, become a different cat all together. There, she had become vulnerable and open with cats she barely knew. Why was that? Was it because she sensed that the cats there did not mean her harm? Was it because she felt that, for the first time, she belonged?         She supposed it didn’t matter now. Out here, in the wilderness, she had always been cautious. She had adapted to attack first and ask questions later; make sure the other was weak before she talked. A conversation could turn into a fight quickly, and because of her size and strength, she would most likely lose without the element of surprise. Her advantage out here was her speed and size. When she was small, she was harder to hit. Because she was fast, she could strike first and dart away easily. This was how she viewed the world for so long. It was cruel, but effective, and she surely would have died if she had not used some of what the city cats taught her.          River shook her head suddenly, scrunching her muzzle in frustration. No, that wasn’t why she was alive. The Legion had given her nothing. She was alive because she had taught herself, and she was alive because she had a purpose. It was true that her mindset had become cruel, but not nearly as cruel as those cats. She would never use what they had tried to drill into her.         The she-cat paused and looked up at the darkening sky. Her breath plumed in a steamy cloud before her. That was the way of the clans…they fought on equal grounds, guided by honor. There was no killing under the warrior code, not unless circumstances required desperate measures to ensure one’s safety. River now realized that she had never known that system before. She had been raised in an environment where killing was all around her, and it was the only way to guarantee survival. If she could have chosen any system to live by, it would be that of the clans…she would never have had to kill.           River let out a short laugh, staring at the darkening forest in front of her. She had long wished for a way to escape her past, and yet here she was, dashing headlong into it. Thunderclan had presented the perfect opportunity at redemption, but…I guess I’m just an idiot. River thought with a bitter smile and a flash of sorrow.         The sun had sunk below the trees, and the sky was now a deepening grey-blue. As River continued between the towering tree-trunks, the forest became quiet, snow muffling every sound. In the silence, a crack sounded behind her, echoing through the trees. It seemed to shake the bare branches above, and River spun, fur on end, hissing. Every other thought left her mind, focusing all attention on the threat. Pin point the target first, she thought.         The crack had definitely come from behind her. River’s small, sharp claws unsheathed, gripping the snow-covered forest floor. All was silent as she stared in apprehension at the undergrowth. Suddenly, a bramble thicket twitched. ☀        River stiffened, ready to attack. Her eyes darted to the trees around her. If it was a fox or some other unbeatable foe, she would have to climb a tree fast. Then she heard a hiss of annoyance. Voices drifted to her.
“Ouch! That was my foot!”
“You mouse-brain! She’s seen us!”
“No she hasn’t!”
“Yes she has!”
“I said she hasn’t! We’ve been following her all this time and she hasn’t seen us!”
“She’s probably listening to us argue right now!”
The thicket rustled as a grey pelt appeared, wrestling furiously with the clinging branches.
“Fox-dung!” the grey thing cursed, as it finally pulled free, leaving a few clumps of fur behind.
River’s eyes widened.
“Stonekit?!” She gasped.
The grey kit turned and licked his ruffled fur. He did not look at her. The bramble rustled once more as Echokit stumbled out. She also left clumps of her dappled coat behind.
“River! Hi! We umm…”
River felt a rush of anger.
“What are you DOING HERE!?” She exclaimed. She hated the fact that she was happy to see them.
The Thunderclan cats looked at her in shock, their mouths hanging open.
“We…we thought we could help you…When we saw Deeplake taking you out of the camp, we knew you were leaving. We snuck out of the camp by climbing up a secret path. We’re not supposed to know about it, but Silverpaw showed us once-”
“Don’t you know how dangerous this is?! You could die! This isn’t some stupid warrior mission!” River yelled.
Her heart was thumping. They couldn’t come. No matter how good their intentions, she could not let them die by the paws of the Legion.
“We know.” Stonekit meowed. His voice was steady once more, and he looked at her with an unwavering gaze. “But the warrior code says that we must always defend a clanmate. To protect our clan with our lives. And you are our clanmate just as much as Flamepaw, Silverpaw, or any other Thunderclan cat.”
“B-But your clan is back there! You can’t just leave them and help some strange cat you met a few days ago! What will Leafheart do?! She’ll be worried sick!”
Echokit spoke up, matching her brother’s determined tone.
“You heard what Stonekit said! You’re our clanmate! You know how worried Leafheart will be once she knows you left?”
River faltered, staring at her friends.
“Your only kits. Can’t you see I’m trying to save you?” she whispered, the last part barely audible.
“River, you’re only a kit too, you know. Stop trying to do this alone. We’re coming. We have to make sure you come back to the clan safely.”
River choked on a growing lump in her throat.
“You don’t even know what I’m trying to do, and you’ll still risk your lives for me?”
Both Stonekit and Echokit nodded firmly. River let out a short laugh, choking a bit, Warriors… she thought with exasperation and joy. Stonekit padded forward and pressed his pelt against hers. She was so thankful, and so terrified. She could not lose these cats. Echokit sat on her other side. The three young cats remained huddled together in the clearing for a long time. River imagined how warm their pelts must feel.
Stonekit shivered suddenly.
“Come on, River. We better go. You can tell us about your mission on the way.”
“I never said you could come!” She protested.
“And we never asked for your permission!” Echokit retorted, “anyway, someone has to be around to warm that pelt of yours. Your as cold as the snow!” Echokit stood, and River caught the she-kit’s eye. Echokit twitched her ears happily with a big grin.
“Let’s go! I’ve always been curious about where you came from, so the sooner we get a move on, the better!”
River got to her feet shakily. She backed away and looked at her friend’s determined faces. Forerunner’s words echoed in her mind, “You are not alone.”
For a single moment, River felt a rush of warmth. The first she had felt in a long while. Thank you for guiding me to the clans, Forerunner. ☀        The three kits traveled only a short distance more. When light had completely disappeared and the shadows were too deep to see beyond, the three kits stopped. Unlike River, Stonekit and Echokit did not have the benefit of traveling herbs, so by the time they settled into a makeshift den of brambles, they were exhausted and hungry. River offered to teach them a hunting crouch, but her friends assured her that they had watched the apprentices practicing and nearly knew the crouch already anyway. The three decided to hunt in the morning, when it was easier to see. Curling together, the three shared their warmth. River knew she had none to share. Ever since her first encounter with Forerunner, she found that she was unable to feel the cold or warmth of snow and sunshine, and her body didn’t seem to exert any heat. She had pondered this for a long time, but eventually came to the conclusion that she must simply accept it and move on. Curled beneath the brambles, River first tried to insist upon sleeping away from her friends, but Stonekit would not stand for it. River finally consented and the trio lay down, side by side. Before River could close her eyes, Echokit murmured,
“Alright, so tell us about your ‘mission’. I stayed quiet as best I could on the way here, but now that we’re resting, you may as well tell us.”
River lifted her head. Echokit’s golden eyes were glowing in the growing darkness. River noticed Stonekit tense, and she knew he was listening as well.
River sighed. She could not avoid it any longer. These cats were risking their lives to help her, and there was no way she could keep this from them. They’ll be safer if they know what we’re up against anyway. I have to tell them everything.
“Are you guys awake enough for a long story?” She asked jokingly, although her tone was dry.
Echokit nodded excitedly, and Stonekit lifted his head, his blue eyes glinting.
River took a deep breath and began: “I grew up in a huge city with towering Twoleg nests called buildings that brush the clouds. It’s a place where no stars shine at night, and the stink of monsters hangs in the air. The city is ruled by a group of cruel cats called the Legion, who want nothing more than to rule over everything. Although their group started small, the leaders, four ruthless cats, began to recruit members until there were only a few loners left in the city. Anyone who didn’t join didn’t last long, and if anyone tried to leave the group, they were tracked down and killed. Escape was nearly impossible.         “My father and mother were loners, and we lived in the forests outside the city. My father convinced my mother to join so that we could avoid trouble with the Legion while also receiving any survival training and protection they gave.  My father quickly climbed the ranks until he was a trusted member of the group, while my mother tried her best to avoid any real connection with them. My siblings and I stuck close to my mother. We were still too young to understand anything that was going on. One day, my mother couldn’t take the ruthless tactics of the city anymore and she tried to run away with us, but my father turned on her. He was corrupted with the power and promises of the Legion, and he betrayed her. He took us away and forced us into the claws of the Legion Teachers… My mother tried to talk sense into him, but he wouldn’t listen, and she was sent to the Legion’s prison. Meanwhile, my siblings and I were in the training program…the first lesson I remember very clearly. The teachers would take one of their prisoners; a loner, housecat or deserter, gather all of us trainees, and rip the cat apart right in front of us… The teachers told us, ‘This is how the world works. The strong always conquer the weak. If you’re weak, you better run or die.’          “We were forced to endure horribly difficult training. Many died…including my sister, Emerald…My two brothers and I were able to survive, but only because of my mother. We would sneak off to visit her in prison whenever we could, and she tried to teach us her own rules about defense and compassion. She tried to remind us of all the good things: how the world was more than kill or be killed. Of course, the city cats did not agree with what my mother told us. They said it made us weak. One day, when we went to see her, she wasn’t there. They’d taken her to a different prison, and we couldn’t find her… Under only my father’s guidance, one of my brothers, Dusk, became corrupted as well. Cloud, my only remaining sibling, and I never forgot mother’s teachings. We tried our best to endure, hoping that we could escape…and one day, my mother found us. She came to us in the middle of the night. She had escaped prison, but not for long. She told us she was going to try to run, and that we should come with her.  chapter 3   “That night, we left the city. Our escape was going smoothly until someone on watch saw us. My mother stayed behind to fight and told my brother and I to keep running. There was nothing I could do, and I had to get my brother out safely. We ran and ran until we reached the forest across the roads and fields around the city. I paused at the top of the hill, right at the forest’s edge, and looked back, but I didn’t see my mother. I heard voices, pursuers coming after us. Cloud and I ran into the forest. It was pitch black, I couldn’t see a thing, and at some point, Cloud and I were separated.  I kept running and running, I knew that I couldn’t stop and look for Cloud because I couldn’t risk being caught. When I finally stopped, exhausted, dawn was breaking, and I was alone. Since then, I’ve been walking…I promised I would find someone who could help me go back and save them. I know she and Cloud are alive, just like I know those cats are going to start seeping out of that city and conquer the land beyond. They talked about it all the time in their lessons. They said they would call it the Golden Day, when they had control over everything, from horizon to horizon…someone has to stop them.”        River fell silent. Stonekit and Echokit did not speak for a long time, and River thought they may have fallen asleep. Then Stonekit shifted and pressed closer to her. River drank in his scent, smelling Thunderclan in his fur. Echokit pressed against her as well. No words were spoken, yet River had never felt closer to them.  “Thanks for listening…I know I’m terrible at story telling.” She murmured.
Her friends only purred, and Echokit licked her head comfortingly.
Something landed on River’s nose, and looking up, the brown cat saw that snow had begun to fall. The little white flecks stuck to her fur, lighting the darkness. Neither Stonekit nor Echokit moved, and the three young cats fell asleep, snow falling in solemn ranks around them.

      River dashed across the road, paws skimming the rough turf. She had walked across many roads and had grown used to their hard, unforgiving surfaces. However this was not the case for Stonekit and Echokit. They had never seen a proper road, had only heard stories from the elders of their clan. Reaching the brown stained snow on the other side, she turned to face her friends, panting.
“It’s fine! Just make sure there aren’t any monsters coming, then run like you’ve never run before!” She called.
Across the path, she saw her friends nod and gather their haunches beneath them, ready to spring. A monster passed, buffeting them with its filthy wind. Silence fell for a moment, and River shouted,
“Now!”
Stonekit and Echokit launched themselves across the road, their bellies brushing its surface. River’s heart thudded as she heard the sound of another monster. It’s roaring grew louder as it drew near, but her friends gave one last push and skidded to a halt beside her, their eyes wide. The monster roared past, whipping at their fur.
“WOOO!” Echokit exclaimed, bouncing in place, “That was AWESOME!”
“Don’t make us do that again…” Stonekit panted, groaning.
“Scaredy cat.” Echokit teased, grinning.
Stonekit flicked his sister’s nose with his tail,
“You were just as scared as I was when we were crossing that Thunderpath!”
“It’s how you deal with the aftermath that determines whether you’re a scaredy cat or not.” Echokit said, puffing out her chest proudly. Stonekit pounced on his sister, knocking her over.
“Shut up.”
River watched this dispute with amusement, before waving a paw.
“Come on, you can continue the fight later.”
Echokit pushed her brother off and stuck out her tongue before nodding. The tortoiseshell she-cat joined River at the edge of the ridge beside the road, staring down at the next stretch of their journey.
It had been many sunrises since they had left Thunderclan, almost two weeks, and the three had grown closer than ever in that time. As they travelled through forests and around Man/Twoleg nests and farms; hunting, sleeping, and occasionally running from or fighting threats together, an unspoken vow had been passed between them: they would stay together, no matter what happened.
River took a deep breath. Below, a long stretch of Twoleg nests and fields extended out. To their right she saw a long line of mountains, and to their left was nothing but forests and foothills. Squinting ahead, River could make out a grey smudge far in the distance. The City. A prickle of foreboding crept along her spine, but River ignored it. Forerunner’s words echoed in her mind, “This is a mission you must undertake.”  River had received no dreams from Forerunner yet, and for some reason, she was relieved. It was confusing to listen to her ancestor’s riddles, despite the tabby she-cat’s calm encouragement.
“So, where are we going?” Stonekit’s voice broke into River’s thoughts.
“That way.” River pointed with her thick tail.
“Do we have to go through that Twolegplace?” Echokit asked, anticipation and excitement in her tone.
“It would be fastest, but there are a lot of hostile cats in there…It may be better to go around.”
Stonekit shook his head.
“We need to get to the city as fast as possible,” He said, “If that’s the fastest way, then we should go through there.”
River nodded, although she could not help but feel uneasy about venturing into the Twolegplace. She had grown used to the forest and fields, and although they had passed a number of Twoleg nests and farms, she had hoped they could avoid any interaction with larger Twolegplaces. However, Stonekit was right: they needed to reach the city as soon as possible, and through that Twolegplace was the fastest way.
“Let’s take a break first. There are a few trees over there. We could rest and then go through the cit-I mean, Twolegplace tomorrow.” River suggested.
“Sounds good to me!” Echokit piped, and raced down the hill toward the trees.        River raced after her, enjoying the feeling of her paws brushing over the grass. Although the wind was cold and frost still clung to the fallen leaves, it was warmer than ever before. New leaf is coming. River thought happily. Stonekit ran beside her, the white markings along his flank flashing in the setting sun’s light. River suddenly realized her friend had grown. His pelt was thicker, his shoulders broader and he was now considerably larger than her. He would be an apprentice if I hadn’t come… River thought to herself bitterly.  Stonekit glanced at her and flicked his tail over her ears happily. Comforted, River put on a burst of speed, racing her friend the rest of the way. When they reached the copse of trees, both cats were panting.         “Slow poke.” Stonekit panted.         River let out a snort of disbelief.         “I was way ahead of you! If anyone’s a slow poke it’s you!” River retorted.         Stonekit’s only reply was to leap at her. With a yowl of happiness, River tussled with her friend until finally throwing him off. Although she had been trained, Stonekit was physically stronger than she. River darted forward and placed her paws on his pelt, holding him to the ground.         “Ha!” She meowed triumphantly.         With a heave, River was thrown off, and before she could recover, Stonekit had planted his paws over her. The tides had turned.         “Ha-HA!” Stonekit laughed.         River stuck out her tongue, and Stonekit released her. River licked her paw and drew it over her ears.         “I was totally holding back you know.”         “I don’t doubt it.” Stonekit laughed, rolling his eyes.         River smiled at her friend. She enjoyed moments like these, when they played as if they were back in Thunderclan. Those days had been some of the best in her life, and despite the seriousness of their mission and their dark destination, she couldn’t help but be swept away in the happier moments.         “Come on, let’s hunt! We haven’t eaten since sunhigh and I want to try catching a bird again. I think I’ve figured out how Flamepaw was doing it when she was practicing” Stonekit meowed, dashing off into the sparse undergrowth.         “Good idea.” River called after him. She got to her paws, ready to join the hunt as well, when Echokit came bounding up with a mouse in her jaws. She’s grown too. River noticed, another flash of guilt streaking through her.         “What have you two fur-balls been doing?! I’ve already caught some prey. Those trees are crawling with mice and squirrels. New-leaf must be on its way!” Echokit exclaimed, placing her catch on the ground.         “Mice and squirrels aren’t what Stonekit was after. He’s off to catch a bird.” River told her with a chuckle.         “That mouse-brain! He only just got the hang of catching mice!” Echokit rolled her eyes with an exaggerated sigh. “My brother is hopeless.”         “He’s alright. You guys are better hunters than me, at least. It’s not really my strong suit.” River shrugged in embarrassment. It was true. Both Echokit and Stonekit showed real promise when it came to hunting. Although River had had training and a good moon hunting on her own, she still had trouble with the harder prey, and had often gone hungry for days. With the two Thunderclan cats, they managed to catch a meal almost every day, whether by sharing their catches or catching enough for all three. River had taught them everything she knew, and they had built their own knowledge from observing the apprentices in Thunderclan. Echokit had even begun giving River advice when it came to hunting squirrels. The tortoiseshell she-cat was a natural.         Echokit cocked her head with a reassuring smile.         “Hey don’t underestimate yourself! You helped teach us, right? Anyway I’mma dig in. Go find Stonekit. He might need help catching that bird.”         River nodded and left her friend to chow down on her mouse. The brown she-cat stalked through the trees, ears pricked for any sign of prey. The scent of a mouse drifted to her nose, and she diverged from her course to follow the trail. The young cat found the mouse scuffling amongst some wet crumpled leaves by the roots of a tall maple tree. Crouching and rocking her hunches, River darted forward and killed the mouse with a quick nip to it’s neck. I guess I’m not terrible. The she-cat conceded. With the prey in her mouth, she decided to head back to Echokit first, just in case Stonekit was already there. Anyway, her stomach was growling. She needed the prey before she went wandering through the forest. When River arrived back at their meeting area, Echokit looked up from her grooming.“Hey you caught something after all!” Echokit commented as River dropped her prey and began eating. She kept a look out for Stonekit.

chapter 5

“So River…”River glanced at her friend, surprised at the hesitant tone of her voice. Echokit had always been the positive one in the group. She was excitable and reckless, and River admired her courage. Hearing Echokit sound so unsure was strange.  “What is it?” River murmured. “Well…When do you think we’ll run into the Legion? You said they weren’t going to stay in the city forever, so do you think we’ll run into them before getting there?” River lowered her gaze, staring at the remains of her mouthfull“I think that…yeah. We’ll probably run into them in the forests surrounding the City. But we can sneak past them! After so long in such a stinky place, their noses are nowhere near as good as a forest cat’s! Trust me, I know! Their hearing stinks too. We’ll be fine.”         “I never said we wouldn’t be fine!” Echokit protested. Her voice regained some of its former spirit. “If I ever see one of those Legion cats, I’ll claw their fur out before they can say ‘Mouse’! I was just curious is all.”         “Right. No one messes with the next Thunderclan leader, right?” River said happily, relieved.         “That’s right!” Echokit said, leaping to her paws and puffing out her chest.         River let out a mrrow of laughter.  “What are you guys talking about?” Came a muffled meow from behind them. River whipped her head around to see Stonekit dragging a huge pigeon behind him.  River’s mouth dropped open. “Stonekit! What a catch!” She exclaimed.   Stonekit’s fur rose in embarrassment. He dropped the bird and licked his chest fur quickly. “The thing was just sitting in the middle of a clearing, begging to be caught! I think it was old.”“Look at my bro, catching old birds,” Echokit mewed proudly, pretending to wipe her eyes with a paw. “I’m so proud! “Yeah, yeah,” Stonekit waved off his sister’s mocking with a flick of his tail. Echokit padded over and bumped him on the shoulder. “I really am proud, Stone. This is an awesome catch!” “Thanks…” Stonekit couldn’t help but beam. He shuffled his paws and waved at the bird. “We should share it! There’s no way I can eat this myself.”River and Echokit nodded their agreement and the three dug into the bird. Afterward, River sat back. I can’t remember ever being so full.        The she-cat sighed contentedly and turned her gaze to the horizon. She could still see the grey smudge in the distance, but in the growing darkness, it began to fade into the surrounding landscape. The stars appeared in the sky, glimmering as the world grew dark. Gazing at the twinkling lights, River wondered if the Starclan cats really were up there. She had talked to Forerunner in dreams, so she had accepted the idea of Starclan when Stonekit told her about it, however she still wondered if she would ever meet one of the clan’s ancestors. The lights looked so far away…it was hard to imagine the Starclan cats could even see them from up there in the sky. Closing her eyes, River silently prayed, please look after Stonekit and Echokit. Keep them safe, even in the city, where you never shine. Stonekit yawned.
“It’s getting dark. We should get some sleep before heading into that Twolegplace tomorrow.” He meowed wearily.
“I’m not tired. You guys sleep. I’ll keep watch and wake you if there’s trouble.” River offered.
Echokit simply flicked her tail in reply and Stonekit nodded. The two young cats curled together under the arching branches of a bush by the forest’s edge. Within moments, their breathing evened, and River knew they were asleep.
Alone with her thoughts, River turned her gaze to the stars again. As she gazed at the dark blue sky, she could suddenly see the Thunderclan camp. It was strange, but the memory of her temporary home was clear, almost lifelike in her mind. River could smell the many cats, could see their pelts flicker in the undergrowth. She had learned the names of a few Thunderclan cats during her stay there, and she imaged their faces. There was Blackpool, the laid back blue-eyed warrior: Flamepaw, an enthusiastic ginger apprentice who visited Echopaw occasionally: Icepelt with her kits, Rainkit and Pinekit: Lightstar of course: Deeplake, Silverpaw, Volepaw, Robinfire… then there were others who she had only met or seen briefly, like the deputy, Duststorm and his apprentice Eaglepaw. The elders Larkmoon, Featherpath and Patchclaw… numerous warriors whose names and faces blurred together, but they were all there, in that bright clearing.
River could imagine the feeling of sunlight dappling her pelt as she lay on the sandy ground, surrounded by the friendly clan cats. The bark of the fallen tree was clear in all texture. It was as if River could reach out and touch the scene with her paw. Home. The word sprang to mind without warning. Shaking her head, River scattered the image, allowing it to dissolve. However, before she could stop it, a memory took it’s place:

        ‘Psst…River…Hey, River.’ River’s eyes open. She sneezes on the rank air, breathing shallow breaths as the reek of Man fills her lungs. ‘River!’ River looks up into the eyes of her brother. The light blue depths are alive with excitement.
        ‘What do you want Cloud?! What if the Teachers hear you?!’ River demands harshly, glancing around.
        'No one’s around. Why don’t we try and go find Mom?’
        ‘Mom’s in prison. We can’t see her, we’d get caught. Use your brain.’ River sighs.
        She remembers many times when her brother would come to her with these requests. It was hopeless. There were too many cats around, and she was sure she knew what the punishment was if they were caught in a restricted area. They had moved their mother for a reason. River shivers, then jumps, claws unsheathing as something touches her shoulder. When she turns, she sees Cloud’s bushy tail resting on her shoulders. His eyes are wide and pleading.
        ‘Come on. We’ll be careful.’ Cloud insists.
        River hesitates. She imagines her mother’s sparkling green eyes and her soft voice, murmuring such wonderful stories.
        ‘No. What if we’re Banished? They’d chase us down. We’d be ripped apart like those prisoners in the first lesson.’
        Her brother shivers at the memory, but gathers his tiny shoulders and turns his gaze on her again. Determination glimmers there, and River feels a lump build in her throat. How did he have such courage?
        ‘Still, we have to try. She’s alive. You know it, and I know it. We’ve got to save her.’
Suddenly, River’s vision begins to fade. What’s going on?! She wonders, bewildered. Everything is dark, her brother’s blue eyes still shining, burning into her with a look of sorrow.
        You promised. ☀        River’s head shot up, her eyes wide open and her breathe coming in small gasps. You promised. You promised. River’s gaze swept the surrounding area. Something had happened. What was wrong? She ran over to Stonekit and Echokit, who were still sleeping peacefully. They’re fine, so why do I feel like something terrible just happened?!  River looked up at the stars, still glimmering. Behind her, the sky was brightening with the coming dawn. She had fallen asleep. The memory had been a dream. What happened?! What happened?! River raked her brain for answers, but none came. Looking the other way, she could just make out the grey smudge of the city. Her heart beat faster. We have to go. Something’s happened to them. As if to confirm, her heart skipped a beat, and she swayed on her paws.
River sat for a moment, letting her spinning mind settle. When she could stand again, she walked over to Stonekit and Echokit and nudged them with a paw.
“What is it?” Stonekit murmured, his eyes opening slowly.
“We have to go. I’m sorry that I woke you so early but….something’s wrong.”
At these words, Stonekit shook himself awake and nodded. Echokit grumbled in her sleep.
“That squirrel’s big enough to feed the clan…yeah, I can catch it…”
“Echokit, Echokit!” Stonekit meowed, prodding his sister.
“What?!” Echokit snapped.
“We have to go. Something’s up.”
Echokit’s eyes opened, and she gazed around wearily.
“It’s not even dawn yet!” She complained.
“And you’ll never see dawn if you don’t get up!” Stonekit retorted.
Echokit got up and stretched, still mumbling about the huge squirrel. While her friend gave herself a quick wash, River gazed at the city, still trying to pinpoint what had set her off.
“What happened?” Stonekit murmured, coming to stand beside her.
“I don’t know. I just got a really bad feeling that…something terrible just happened."        “River! Please, we have to slow down!” River looked up to see Echokit feebly scrabble over the wall. Her friend was panting and her eyes half closed. Stonekit sat beside her, balancing on the top of the wall looking just as exhausted. River looked ahead. She could no longer see the city, but the mountains were still to their right, so the were heading in the right direction.
“But we have to hurry.” River murmured, half to herself.
Despite her insistence, she knew that it was impossible to continue. It would only slow them down if they tried to carry on, tired as they were. River’s legs were shaking with fatigue and fear. The feeling that something terrible had happened was still bubbling inside her. However, looking at her friends, she felt a flash of guilt. It wasn’t right to push them like this. They had already sacrificed so much to help her, she shouldn’t be treating them this way.
“Alright!” River called. “We’ll stop here and rest.”
River looked around. They had entered an alley between two Twoleg nests. On one end, she could see a wide road run past, on the other, yet another road.How do Twolegs even know where things are? Everything is the same in this place.
“Where will we hunt?” Stonekit asked, coming up beside her.
His eyes drooped, but he seemed to be forcing himself to look strong, keeping his head and tail high. River thought for a moment, feeling slightly unsure.
“There are always a lot of squirrels in places like this. Maybe we can catch one of those?” she suggested.
“Even though it’s leaf-bare?” Stonekit questioned.
“You smelled it yesterday, right? New-leaf is near, so the squirrels should be coming out…” River did not try to hide the uncertainty in her voice, and her friend rested his tail on her shoulders.
“Alright, that sounds good.” He meowed, trying a smile. The smile was weak and tired, but River blinked gratefully at her friend, appreciating his effort.
“B-but let’s rest first!” River added. If any of them tried to chase a squirrel now, they would probably trip over their own paws.
In answer, Stonekit walked back to his sister, who had collapsed at the foot of the wall, and half fell onto his side. River walked over and lay beside him. Wearily, she began to lick his ruffled pelt, feeling her friend begin to purr as she soothed him with gentle strokes. Only a moment later, Stonekit had drifted off to sleep. River turned her gaze to Echokit, only to find her friend had passed out as well. Sighing River lowered her head and closed her eyes.        River blinked. She was in the Greenleaf place yet again. Sniffing the air, she caught scent of Forerunner. Her ancestor was nowhere in sight, but River knew she was somewhere in the area. Feeling more energized than she had in days, River bounded into the surrounding undergrowth, following the sweet scent of her ancestor.  As she continued through the trees, River realized that the air was growing colder. The light began to fade, and the trees withered until they were black and bare. Fungus grew on the trunks, glowing with an eerie light. Where am I? This doesn’t look at all like the Greenleaf place…
Suddenly, River caught the scent of another cat, however, it was not the scent of Forerunner. Slowing, River crept through the undergrowth, warily tracking this unknown cat. The scent grew stronger until, through the shriveled leaves of a fern, River saw the silhouettes of two cats. She could not make out what they looked like, only that one was far larger than the other. They conversed in low tones, but River could just make out what they were saying.
“And you are sure that this plan of yours will work?”
“Yes. With our help, your next attack will never fail.”
“You boast such power, but can you keep this promise?”
“We are ancient, as ancient as your clans, and even as ancient as the tribe’s ancestors. Although we have been silent for a long time, unable to…influence our own, we are growing in power now. I can feel it seeping back into me. You would not believe the power we once yielded.”
“But there are only two of you. Sometimes I wonder if two extra cats is even worth my time.”
“Don’t insult me. We may be few in number, but we still wield power beyond any of your cats’ imaginings.”
River saw the larger silhouette flex its shoulders.
“Do not disappoint me. I did not die disgraced to have some cat come and ruin any chance I have at revenge. If this…one you speak of does not come through, you will be the first I kill.”
“Dead cats do not die.”
“But they do fade. It has been done before.”
There was a moment of tense silence before the smaller silhouette turned away and padded into the undergrowth. The larger silhouette chuckled, then stepped into the light. For the first time, River could see him. He was large, with glowing amber eyes and a dappled black and grey coat. His shoulders were scarred from many battles, and he gazed around with a cold fire in his eyes. Suddenly, he sniffed the air. River stiffened, terror pulsing through her as his gaze swept past the fern she lay beneath. The great grey cat’s eyes focused on a spot not far from her. His eyes narrowed.
“Who invited you back?” He growled River woke, her paws trembling. The glaring eyes of the grey tom still burned in her mind. Stonekit sat beside her, worry clouding his gaze.  “You were having a nightmare, weren’t you? You were twisting and fidgeting in your sleep.”
“It’s…it’s nothing.” River got up and stretched, her sore muscles aching. “Let’s get moving.” River said.
“We still need to eat. Echokit went hunting for those squirrels, but that was a while ago. You were sleeping for a long time.”
River looked up at the sky and noticed the sun had nearly set. Fear shot through her.
“Why didn’t you wake me sooner?!” She exclaimed, jumping to her feet.
Stonekit looked slightly indignant.
“If I had, you wouldn’t have had enough sleep. Listen, I know that something’s wrong. You’ve been tense since last night, but expecting us to get there any faster when we’re so tired and hungry is mouse-brained.”
River turned on her friend, bristling. A moment later she felt guilt engulf her, and she sat down heavily.
“I know…it’s just I…Stonekit, I think…I think something happened to my Mom.”
Stonekit padded over and pressed his pelt against hers reassuringly.
“She’s not dead.” He meowed firmly. “You know she isn’t, don’t you? Whatever happened, whatever you felt, she is not dead.”
River didn’t respond, but smiled slightly at her friend and nodded. He was right. She knew something was wrong, but she also knew that whatever had happened, it was not death.
“Thanks. You’re really an amazing friend, Stone.” River licked his head. He smiled and shuffled his paws.
“It’s nothing, Riv… Now, how about we see if we can’t catch something?” Stonekit suggested.
River let out a short laugh and stood with her friend.
“Sounds good…”

As the sun crept into the sky the following day, clouds began to gather. The air chilled and cold light bathed the sharp Twoleg nests. Stonekit, Echokit and River huddled together, chewing a single squirrel. Even with three hunters, they had not been able to catch any more that morning or the night before. River remembered the feast they had had when Stonekit had caught that pigeon and couldn’t help but feel bitter envy for her past self. I’ve survived on less, and I’m guessing Stone and Echo have too.
River stood and took a breath.
“Are you guys ready?”
Echokit nodded, “as we’ll ever be.” She sighed.
The trio set off, creeping along walls and warily avoiding the twolegs and monsters that occasionally passed. As the sun reached it’s highest point, a shadow fell over the cats. Looking up, River saw grey clouds engulf the sun’s light. Echokit shivered,
“It’s going to snow, isn’t it?” she moaned. “So much for new-leaf.”
“We’ll just keep going. Moving around will warm us up!” Stonekit said brightly, receiving a bitter look from his sister. He nudged the tortoiseshell playfully and added, “I thought you were supposed to be the optimistic one.”
“Lay off, Stonekit! I can’t always be happy!” Echokit snapped. She pushed past them and padded ahead, tail high.
Stonekit looked taken aback, but River laid her tail on his shoulders with an amused smile.
“She’s just tired and hungry. Come on. We’re almost out of this place.”
Stonekit shrugged, still looking bewildered,
“Okay,” he muttered. River bumped his shoulder.
“And drop the cheerful attitude. You’re freaking me out.” The brown she-cat laughed. Stonekit grinned,
“So I really do have to be the pessimist?”
“Yep. It’s how our group has functioned, after all. Echokit optimistically charges ahead without thinking, I’m flustered and unable to do anything, and you’re the pessimistic smart one who keeps us both on track.”
Stonekit cocked his head.
“Is that really how you see us all?”
River hesitated.
“Am I wrong?”
Stonekit looked ahead. After a few moments walking in silence, he murmured,
“I don’t think you’re unable to do anything. Aren’t you the one leading us?”
It was River’s turn to be silent, and the grey tom sighed. “I mean, you aren’t completely wrong. That does seem to be how it’s gone in a few situations so far…but you aren’t as helpless as you seem to think you are, and I’m not as smart as you seem to think I am. Echokit…well, Echokit is that reckless and optimistic.” He chuckled slightly, and River joined him for a moment. “But still…I like to think that our group deals with situations spontaneously.”
The two walked in silence again. River watched Echokit as she walked ahead. After a moment, the she-cat sighed and smiled.
“Yeah…maybe you’re right.” The brown she-cat quickened her pace to walk beside Echokit. The tortoiseshell didn’t pay her any heed, and River let the silence stretch before mewing,
“You know what I want…a feast of prey as tall as these Twoleg nests.” River joked, waving her tail at a nest as they padded passed. Echokit didn’t respond immediately, but after a moment the she-cat’s mouth formed a small grin.
“Why not as big as the mountains over there?”
“I think that’s a bit excessive.”
“Not for me! I could eat two mountains worth of fresh-kill right now!”
River laughed and Echokit joined her. As the two quieted, Echokit sighed. “Sorry for being a grump.”
“It’s fine. You’re right. No one can always be happy.”
“But this leaves a mark on my record!” She leaned toward River and whispered, “Stonekit was right! I’m supposed to be the optimistic one! If he tells the clan when we get back, my reputation will be ruined!”
River smiled.
“Then we’ll keep this between us.”
Echokit smiled happily. Twirling in place, she walked backwards for a moment to address Stonekit, who padding along a few tail lengths behind them.
“Hey bro! How much prey could you eat right now?”
A look of confusion crossed the tom’s face before he grinned.
“As much as I could fit inside the camp at home.”
“Psh,” Echokit scoffed, waving her tail dismissively. She glanced at River with mock disappointment, “My brother has no imagination, does he?”
“Hey!” Stonekit protested, still grinning. He darted forward, swinging a paw at his sister. She ducked and the three laughed, all relieved that the tension, however brief, had faded.
As the sky grew darker, snow began to fall. River noticed that her friends had begun to shiver in the growing cold. Ahead, the Twoleg nests had finally begun to thin, and it wasn’t but minutes later that the trio emerged from the maze of nests at last. The clouds were thick and grey overhead, heavy with oncoming snow, however the three were distracted by the clear view in front of them.
“That’s the city?!” Echokit gasped.
River swallowed with difficulty, her fur standing on end. The happiness she had felt from moments before faded.
“Yes.” She replied numbly.
The city loomed: tall, straight buildings piercing the heavy clouds. Noise and putrid Twoleg stench seemed to roll over the large forests that surrounded the city, cloaking the three kits. Stonekit coughed.
“That smell is the city?! But it’s still so far away!”
“Not really. All we have to do is make it through that forest and the outer Twoleg settlements, then we reach the territory of the Legion.” If they haven’t claimed the forests that is… River thought with a sense of foreboding. When she had still been with the legion not two moons ago, they had controlled the inner city and were just expanding into the outer twoleg settlements. Although Legion cats often ventured into the forests for prey, there were no bases there, and no patrols. That could very well have changed.
Taking a breath, Stonekit stepped forward.
“Well, let’s at least make it to that forest before this snow starts falling. I’m cold enough as it is, and we’ll never make it anywhere if we freeze to death in a snowfall.”
Echokit smiled.
“Now that’s the pessimist we all love.”
Stonekit flicked her ears with his tail, but couldn’t hide the small smile on his face.
River followed her friends toward the trees below, wishing she could take part in their reassuring play. However, her heart only beat faster with apprehension the closer they got to the towering city. Swallowing back her fear, River focused on the urgency she had felt the night before. I’m coming to save you, Mom, Cloud…please hold on..  chapter 6 By the time the sky had darkened to a dull dark grey and the snow began to fall, the trio had entered the forest. It was gloomy and menacing, every shadow seeming to hold a threat. The leafy floor was wet and cold, with patches of snow dappling the ground by the trunks of tall trees. A crack echoed between the tree trunks, and the three young cats jumped. River’s heart thudded, but she tried to keep herself calm. Her friends were now closer to danger than ever before, and she would not fall apart on them. She would not allow herself to freeze or to hesitate if a threat presented itself.         After all, when it came to fighting experience, she was much more experienced than both of her friends. Stonekit certainly had physical strength, and Echokit was fast and nimble, but both lacked technique. A few times on the journey, they had encountered dogs or hostile kittypets, and for the most part they had been able to run, avoiding conflict. But one time, they were forced to confront a particularly territorial kittypet lean enough to block their way, and it became clear that Stonekit and Echokit, although resourceful and able to hold their own for a bit by dodging and keeping out of range, could never win a fight with a more experienced cat. River had tried to teach them a few techniques after the encounter, but flashes of the Legion’s tactics made it hard to focus. Everything she had learned involved killing or drastically wounding the opponent, and she did not wish to teach that to her friends. In the end, she had tried to adapt the moves to dodging and defense, things her mother had taught her. Still, in a real fight, even she had a small chance of actually winning without resorting to…undesirable measures.         Now, in the forests so close to the Legion, River almost regretted not teaching her friends the moves. However drastic they were, at least they would give the trio a better chance at survival. The cats here certainly wouldn’t hesitate to kill them. But River shook her head, pushing away the feeling. No. Her friends were going to be warriors, and that meant they followed the code. She would not teach them to kill, and she would not kill unless forced to. If they encountered a city cat who attacked, they’d simply have to run, dodge, and defend like they had up until this point. They would stick together and they would survive, as they had for the past few weeks. River would not allow her friends to die.         “Stay low,” River whispered. She cursed herself for her shaky, squeaking voice and took a deep breath.         The three cats crept through the forest as quietly as they could, utilizing every hunting tactic they knew to sneak around undetected. When they had explored a wide area, they decided it would be safe to find a place to rest for the night. As the three searched for a make shift den, they managed to catch a bit of prey and quell their hunger.         Settling down, Stonekit took the first watch, and River and Echokit tried to sleep with little success. The night wore on and River took Stonekit’s place, then Echokit River’s. Although all three were on edge, they did eventually manage to relax and get a bit of sleep. Snow fell throughout the night, coating the forest floor in a blanket of white and lighting the shadows. Dawn slowly lit the sky, and the three woke, yawning.         They hunted for breakfast before continuing their exploration of the forest. The smell of the outer Twoleg settlements reached their noses, and they skirted around the area, looking for any signs of the Legion cats.         It was as the day wore on and they made plans to venture into the outskirts of the city when River heard a dreaded sound. The silver-striped she-cat quickly raised her tail, staring with wide eyes at the tangled brambles to her left. Stonekit drew in his breath sharply and held it. Echokit pressed herself to the floor, shivering quietly.          The sound became clearer as it drew near the three. Pawsteps.         River’s heart was beating so loud, she was sure the approaching enemy could hear it. Pushing away her panic, she hissed to her friends,         “Hide! Hide now!” She darted across the cold forest floor, using her bushy tail to wipe her paw prints from the snow as she went, and dived into a thicket of brambles. Peeking out, she saw that Stonekit and Echokit had also disappeared, having found their own hiding places. River allowed a sigh of relief.         Then a cat emerged from the undergrowth.          The mysterious cat was black with white patches. It raised its head and sniffed the air. Its blue eyes flicked across the clearing. River nearly gasped aloud when she realized she recognized the cat. It was Livy! The white-patched she-cat had been in her training group during her time with the Legion.         Although they had barely spoken, River remembered Livy as a quietly friendly she-kit who often helped other trainees when the Teachers weren’t looking. She also remembered that when the Teachers did look, Livy could be a dangerous opponent, very good at acting obedient in order to survive.         With this realization, River knew it best to remain in her hiding place. She had no way of knowing if this Livy was the compassionate one or the obedient one. She had not seen the white-patched she-cat for moons, after all, and anything could have happened. If she’s corrupted, she won’t hesitate to call for reinforcements or attempt to take me out and bring my body back as a gift for the Leaders…River thought bitterly, watching her old classmate closely.         Livy sniffed again, and her eyes landed on River’s hiding place. River stiffened, her heart thudding with alarm. She supposed it had been too much to hope that the city’s stench would mask their scent. Livy began walking toward her slowly. Stay calm, stay calm! You can take her! River unsheathed her claws. If I leap out suddenly when she’s not expecting it…         “River? River, is that you?” Livy whispered tentatively.         River hesitated at the sound of uncertainty and kindness in the she-cat’s voice. Something told her Livy meant no harm, but she couldn’t be sure. It could be an act.         “R-River, if you’re there, it’s okay. We aren’t with the Legion anymore. We escaped!”         River felt doubt prick her paws. And you’re hiding right outside their territory?         Livy crouched to the ground, staring at the thick tangle of brambles that shielded the brown she-cat. Her eyes were unfocused: clouded by fear. With a flash of shock, River knew Livy wasn’t lying. That look was genuine. She could feel it.         Pushing her way out of the bracken, River stood before her old friend. Livy sprang to her feet, blue eyes glimmering.         “River! It is you! Oh, I missed you!”         River rushed forward and rubbed her head against her friend’s chest.         “Yeah, I missed you too.” River replied, somewhat awkwardly.         “Where did you go?! The last time I saw you was at…” Livy’s voice trailed away and her blue eyes clouded again. She shook her head and asked anxiously, “Where’s Cloud? Is he okay?!”         “He…we got separated when we escaped.”         “Oh no! Well, wherever he is, I’m sure he’s fine. He was always a tough little tom.” Livy murmured.         River nodded, then, remembering her clan friends, she said,         “Livy, I met some cats on my way to find help. Stonekit, Echokit, come on, it’s fine.”         Her clan friends emerged from the undergrowth, their pelts ruffled, and their eyes narrowed in suspicion.         Livy didn’t seem to notice the tension. She padded forward and dipped her head.         “It’s nice to meet you, err…Stonekit, and Echokit.” River could tell Livy was curious about these names, but neither she, nor the clan cats elaborated on them. River remembered her own brief confusion at the clan cat’s strange names, but knew that Livy was capable of accepting them and moving on rather quickly.         There was a moment of awkward silence, all four cats staring at each other. Finally, River broke the silence,         “How did you escape? Has the Legion expanded at all?”         Livy hesitated and shook her head.         “No, they’ve been staying within the city for the past few weeks, only coming out here to hunt. I and a few others only escaped because things have been slightly…unorganized, lately.”         “Unorganized?”         “Yeah…” Livy fell silent for a moment and looked around nervously. Turning, she gesture with her tail, “I’ll explain more when we aren’t out in the open. There’s a place just through the trees where we’ve been hiding. I’ll show you, and you all can sleep there tonight if you’d like.” River hesitated, suspicion pricking at her paws.         “Sorry, but we really should get moving.” River said.         “It’s only for tonight, and besides, you look hungry. Come on. I promise it’s safe.”  Livy’s eyes sparkled with warmth, and River found it hard to resist the invitation. She glanced at Stonekit and Echokit.         “Excuse me, I need to ask my friends how they feel about this.”          River padded a couple of tail lengths away, followed by Stonekit and Echokit. They paused at the far side of the clearing.         “Well?” River whispered.         “I don’t know.” Stonekit mewed uncertainly. “She seems nice, and I didn’t feel like she was lying, but still…”         “I think we should go.” Echokit piped.          River and Stonekit looked at her. Echokit’s eyes flashed angrily.         “Listen, I know it’s suspicious, but if she were hostile, why didn’t she call for her friends when she sensed us. We’re hungry and tired, and she’s offering us a safe place to stay.”         River and Stonekit shared a dubious glance. Echokit snorted in frustration.         “We’re right outside the city. There are probably city cats in these woods hunting right now! If we go on by ourselves, we could be captured! We’re not as weak as before, but honestly I’m still tired and hungry, and I’d rather go into the inner twole- I mean, city, when we’re at our best.”         River found herself nodding. It was true. They weren’t safe here, and to make matters worse, they definitely weren’t at their peak. If they encountered enemies now, they would surely be captured…or killed. River took a breath.         “I agree with Echokit.”         Stonekit remained still and silent, but did not protest. With an uneasy feeling in her stomach, River padded back to Livy.         “Thank you, Livy. We’ll go with you to your camp.”         Livy’s ears pricked happily, and she flicked her tail, signaling that they should follow her.           She led the way through the trees cautiously, the three young cats following her. ☀        Livy led the way for a while, pausing briefly when the four smelled prey. They managed to catch two squirrels and shared the kill before continuing on their way. Finally, Livy stopped in front of a mysterious Twoleg structure. It was quite small, smaller than any Twoleg nest, and made of wet, rotting wood. It smelled of mold, and deep mud mixed with the clumps of snow around its base. River shrank back slightly, feeling uneasy in the face of the rather foreboding structure. “It’s okay. Its been abandoned for a long time. The Legion always ignore it because there were some dogs living here until just a little while ago.”
River gulped, trying her best to stay calm. She definitely smelled dog scent, although it was a bit stale now.
“A group of us were able to get away and hide here about half a moon ago.” Livy explained, gesturing with her tail, “Come on, I’ll lead you inside.”
“You never said how you escaped… It’s nearly impossible to get away without being seen. You said things have been disorganized, but that doesn’t really seem like it would help with so many guards still about…” River questioned, skeptical of her old classmate’s story.
“Well, we had a bit of a distraction. The dogs that used to live here went into the city, and there was some mayhem.”
River was silent for a moment.
“What happened to the dogs?” She murmured.
Livy shuddered.
“Rage happened.”
River imagined the huge white tom with a shiver. Rage was one of the four leaders that ruled the city cats. He was the most feared of the four, being the most skilled fighter, and most ruthless killer. River could imagine him ripping through the dogs and sending them running. With his ability, strength and direction, it was no wonder the Legion was able to deal with the threat of a few wild dogs. However, it would still have caused some commotion, and yes, perhaps have presented the opportunity for a few cats to slip out unnoticed, masking their scent with the dog scent and hiding in this abandoned structure.
Reassured that Livy’s story had some sense to it, River followed Livy around the side of the Twoleg structure. The four cats fell silent as they pushed their way inside through a crack in the wooden wall. Light beaming through holes in the roof, shining down on an empty space. River wondered what the point of the structure was. It seemed too small to hold anything of a Twoleg’s, and it was empty anyway. Then she saw the hole in the dirt floor. Walking to the edge she looked down, seeing only blackness.
“You have to jump.” Livy told her.
Stonekit snorted.
“Are you joking?!”
“No.” Livy replied simply.
The white-patched she-cat padded to the edge of the hole and, without hesitation, jumped into the blackness. A moment later, River, Stonekit and Echokit heard her voice echo up to them.
“It’s actually a small leap.”
“Alright, I’ll go.” Echokit stepped forward, looking rather excited.
Gathering her haunches, she fell into the blackness. Stonekit and River followed shortly after.
Cold air hit River’s face the moment she landed. She pressed herself to the ground, waiting for her eyes to adjust to the gloom. Finally, she began to make out a few details. A tunnel stretched out before them, the sides made of rough, wet dirt. A few roots stuck out from the walls, quivering in the cold breeze.
“Alright, follow my voice.” Livy said. Her voice echoed in the darkness, bouncing off the edges of the tunnel.
River pressed close to her clan friends as they proceeded through the darkness. The cool draft blew silently past, tickling River’s nose.  Echokit shivered, half from the breeze and half from excitement.
“This is so cool!” the tortoiseshell she-cat murmured.
“Trust you to find this fun,” Stonekit sighed.
After what felt like an eternity, River saw light ahead. Without a word, all four cats bounded forward, bursting into a small, round area. Light shown through a small hole in the ceiling, only dimly illuminating the area, however, after the darkness of the tunnel, the modest light seemed like a ray of sunshine. The walls of the cavern were rough and curved, and River could imagine the area once belonging to a badger. Another, smaller tunnel extended out of the cavern, allowing the breeze to waft through the warrens.
Livy had been right; this place did seem safe. The smell of dog still hung in the air, easily coating their scent and ensuring any stray cat that wondered by would immediately veer away.
Peering into the shadows at the edges of the area, River could only just make out the outlines of three cats. Eyes gleamed from the darkness, and River flinched, instinctually unsheathing her claws.
“It’s alright.” Livy reassured her, stepping forward. “Everyone, its River! And she brought two…er, friends with her. This is Stonekit, and Echokit.”
The shapes shifted and stepped into the dim light. River instantly recognized one of the mysterious cats as Karter, a young tabby tom who had been another trainee when she and her siblings were living in the city. River did not know him well, but then again, she had rarely talked to anyone besides her littermates. The others were strangers: an older tabby tom and a light brown she-cat.
“Hello River! I thought you left for good!” Karter said. His mew was deep and rumbling, yet friendly.
River relaxed, but only slightly.
“No, I went to find help.” River said, trying to sound confident. It didn’t work. She was far too tired and on-edge.
Karter cocked his head, green eyes surveying Stonekit and Echokit.
“Were you able to?”
“No.” River answered simply.
Stonekit cast a questioning glance at her, as if to say, but you found the clans.
River just shook her head slightly. Looking past the grey tom, she noticed Echokit staring at the former city cats with wonder.
“Well, please make yourselves comfortable. Oh, right! This here is Jay, and this is Sira.” Karter placed his tail on the tom, then the she-cat. They nodded, but said nothing. River noticed their eyes narrowed in suspicion. Well, they have been hiding from the Legion. It makes sense they’d be suspicious of some strange cats.
“Thank you.” Stonekit spoke up, addressing Livy, “it really means a lot that you are letting us stay with you, but we’ll be leaving in the morning.”
Livy nodded, looking slightly sad.
“I understand.”
Without another word, the cats found themselves places in the small area to lie down. River and her friends settled opposite the former Legion cats. Livy joined her companions, leaving River alone with the clan cats. As soon as they lay down, Echokit spoke in a hushed voice.
“Stonekit, what’s your problem?”
“What? We do have to leave in the morning. Isn’t that right River?” Stonekit hissed back. The brown she-cat hated being put on the spot, but she nodded.
“Right. We have to get moving. If we enter the city by past sun high tomorrow, we should be able to make it to the prison by nightfall and free my mom and brother.” As River spoke the words, she found herself not believing them. Tomorrow…tomorrow I get to see them again. A lump formed in her throat. Excitement and apprehension tingled in her chest. It wasn’t going to be easy. The three of them would have to sneak past multiple patrols and scouts, as well as find the time to search through the prison area for her mother’s cage. River remembered the prison area from a few of her visits as a kit. There was only one entrance, with narrow windows that could be squeezed through if one was small enough. The prison itself was simply a long, dark, abandoned Twoleg room underground, with multiple cages that the Legion cats had dragged there. River used to know the exact location of her mother’s cage, but of course, she had been moved and now it was anyone’s guess where she was being held. There was also the chance that Cloud was being held in a completely different cage somewhere else. Thankfully, there was only one prison, so it was just a matter of staying hidden long enough to actually find them amongst the numerous cages inside.
Echokit’s mew interrupted River’s thoughts, and the brown she-cat looked at her friend.
“Shouldn’t we stay here for a little bit? We still need to hunt, and these cats seem nice! It wouldn’t do us any harm to just stay an extra night and get our strength up before we go into the city!”
Stonekit shook his head.
“We can hunt on the way tomorrow. The faster we get in and rescue River’s family, the better. Anyway, I don’t trust these cats.”
“Why not?!” Echokit demanded.
“Because it’s dangerous to trust any cat right now.” Stonekit snapped angrily.
Echokit’s golden eyes flashed, but she said nothing. Without another word she curled into a ball, pointedly turning her back on her brother. Stonekit shook his head in exasperation and curled up as well.
River watched the scene with a mixture of unease and awe. Stonekit and Echokit loved to tease each other of course, and there were certainly times on the journey where the two wouldn’t speak to each other due to some disagreement or harsh comment, but River could not remember a time when things were this tense between the two. They may have differing personalities and views, but they were always close, and always got over any rivalries quickly. The gravity of the mission is finally getting to them… River thought wearily, feeling a flash of guilt. I guess I can’t blame them for being on edge…I certainly am.
Deciding it best to let the two rest a bit, River curled up beside her friends and closed her eyes. As she drifted away, she tried to picture everything she knew about the inner city and the way to the prison. They’d need a clear path in order to get there and out without being noticed. Please just let us succeed and get out alive. River thought anxiously as she faded into sleep. ☀        River glanced behind her. Every hair on her pelt stood on end. Her heart thudded in her chest, fast as a hummingbird’s wing beat. Huge buildings soared above her, seeming to brush the clouds. Their grey flanks were cold and dark in the Twoleg lights. The sky was clouded, and no stars shone. River gulped. “Alright, let’s go. The prison should be just up ahead.”
Stonekit and Echokit were tense beside her. She could tell her friends were just as terrified as she that they would be discovered. They were already deep within the Legion’s territory, having been able to avoid the few cats and patrols they had seen. On their way in, the three had rolled in a heap of garbage, making they’re pelts sticky and reeking, but also shielding them from scent detection. We have to be more careful then ever here. One misstep, and we’re as good as crowfood.
They had left Livy and the others in the morning, staying true to their word. Livy assured them that if they needed a hiding place, they were welcome to return and use the tunnels. The three dipped their heads in gratitude before starting towards the city. They had traveled most of the day, catching a squirrel and a few mice along the way. Although it wasn’t much of a meal, River felt as though she could barely swallow the prey. When the trees thinned, giving way to a road, and the first tall buildings, River could feel the prey in her throat. Now the sky had darkened to a strange purple-orange hue, and they had made great progress through the Legion’s territory.
River cautiously ventured forward. She sniffed the air and the repulsive scent of Twoleg trash and her own pelt clouded her senses. I forgot just how disgusting this place is. Trying her best to ignore the smell, River focused on catching the scent of any cats. There was nothing.
“Follow me.” The brown she-cat whispered.
She darted forward, racing toward their next hiding spot, a small space behind a large trash bin. This process had been going on since they had entered the city. Darting from hiding spot to hiding spot, spending no more than a second in the open.
“Are we almost there?” Echokit murmured.
River did not reply. She flicked her tail, and they were off to another spot. As they settled, River turned to her friend. Echokit’s golden eyes were wide with fear, but there was also determination in their depths.
“Yeah, it’s just there. You two stay here. I’m going to check around the corner. I’ll signal you if it’s clear.”
Taking a deep breath, River threw herself forward. Skidding to a halt beside the corner, she peered around the edge. Ahead, an alleyway stretched into darkness, blackness obscuring the end. It was as if shadows had swallowed the place, leaving only a void of gloom. Despite the opaque shadows, River knew that at the far end of the alleyway there was a sloping pathway. It descended below ground level to the prison’s entrance, and there would certainly be a guard there. The Teachers had taken her class on a tour to the prison once, and River still remembered the tortured looks on the faces of the prisoners clearly. She shook her head to scatter the memory, but her paws still trembled.
Heart thumping, River beckoned her friends, who raced to her side. Turning to them, she whispered.
“Alright, down there is the entrance. There will be a guard waiting outside, but if I remember right, they should leave for a quick break to check the perimeter. When they leave, I’ll slip inside and go down a tunnel that leads to the prison room. That is where they keep my mother and the other prisoners.”
“Let’s go.” Stonekit mewed. His blue eyes were serious and calm, like pools of still water. River marveled at his ability to keep calm in their situation, and appreciated his composure. It was certainly helping to keep her grounded.
The silver-striped she-cat took a breath,
“I’m going in alone.” She stated as confidently as she could.
“What?!” Echokit hissed. “Are you crazy?! We’ve come this far with you! There is no way you are doing this alone!”
“Listen, it’ll be harder for the guards to detect me if I go alone. If we all go, we may just trip over each other in the darkness!”
“But River, if you do alert any guards, there’s no way you could fend them off by yourself! You need us to protect you while you free your mother!”
River opened her mouth to protest, but Echokit suddenly leaned toward River, eyes blazing.
“We. Are. Going.” She hissed.
River closed her eyes, feeling a flash of frustration fueled by terror.
“What if we all go and when we come out, there are guards waiting for us, hmm? I need someone on lookout!” The silver-striped cat snapped.
“One of us can stay here, but we’re not letting you go alone.” Stonekit spoke up, his tone stern.
The silver-striped she-cat gritted her teeth. She looked around with a sharp sigh.
“Okay fine. Echokit, you be lookout. If the guard comes back and we’re still inside, throw one of these cans against the small windows on the side of the nest to make a noise. Then hide as quickly as you can. We’ll be able to hear it, and the guard will investigate, giving us enough time to get out.”
Echokit looked like she wanted to protest, but she managed to bite her tongue. Looking frustrated, she nodded,
“Okay, okay I can be the lookout. What’s a can?”
“These,” River gestured with a paw to a few stray cans lying around the trash beside them. “They make a loud noise when they knock against stuff.”
Echokit nodded, and River took a breath.
“Alright, so that’s the plan. Stonekit, follow my steps exactly. We’ll wait around the corner for the guard to leave, then dash in. On my mark…”
Her friends tensed, and River’s heart thudded. “Now.”
The two young cats darted around the corner, sticking to the shadowy walls. They raced to a dumpster set at the end of the alleyway, and as they slipped past the door, River caught sight of the guard’s eartips. He did not notice them, and the two darted to safety. Hiding behind the dumpster, they two peaked out, watching the guard, a muscular black tom, silently.
It felt like an eternity before the tom finally stood and stretched. He padded up the sloping path and disappeared around the corner.
They only had so much time now.
“Go!” River hissed, darting forward.
She dropped down in front of the prison entrance, a door knocked off its hinges, and slipped inside. River had never felt more terrified as she and Stonepaw advanced down the corridor. What if she’s gone? Torn apart in some lesson? What if we’re captured? What if Echokit signals us and we haven’t found her? What if….Stop it! “What if” never caught any prey, and it never will. She’s here. She’s safe, and we’re going to rescue her. River pushed herself forward, pawstep by pawstep, until she reached the end of the corridor. The prison room opened in front of her, cages lining the walls and dim light shining in through the narrow windows near the ceiling. Heavy shadows clung to every corner, and River could hear the faint squeaking and scuffling of rats.
There was no sign of any other guards, and River took another shaking breath.

“Let’s go. We only have about a minute to find her.” chapter 6 All was quiet, all was dark, and every shadow seemed dangerous, hostile. Each moment passed like a lifetime, and River felt like her blood was simultaneously freezing and bursting into flames. The she-cat darted between the mesh containers used as prison cages, peaking inside quickly before moving on. Stonekit jumped on top of the first row of cages to scan the ones above. As they moved down the rows, River felt a growing sense of foreboding.         Something feels wrong…this feels somehow too…easy.         The brown she-cat shook her head. That couldn’t be right. They had had a tough time getting past the stray patrols and cats they had encountered, and it had taken them the entire day just to get here. Now they only had so long to actually find and rescue her mother before making the long journey back out. This wasn’t easy by any means. However… River scanned the room again. Something just didn’t sit right with her. Shouldn’t there have been twice as many cats on the way here? The Legion controlled the entire city. They had dozens upon dozens of cats, and at least one on every street. Why had there been only a few?         River peaked into the next cage. It contained a disheveled tabby tom, looking on the verge of death. River didn’t stop, moving on to the next cage. She was almost at the end of the room, and still no sign of her mother or her brother. They were running out of time.         “River!”         River looked up at Stonekit’s hiss, and the grey tom waved his tail for her to join him. River gathered her haunches beneath her and jumped on top of the cages. Padding to her friend’s side, he gestured to the cage beside him and she peaked inside. River’s heart nearly stopped as she saw the hunched calico figure stooped at the back, half hidden in shadows. River did not dare trust her thumping heart. It’s her! It’s her!         River wished she could yowl with joy, but she managed to restrain herself, simply shivering with excitement and relief. Stonekit motioned that he would watch the windows for any sign of the guard. River nodded and turned back to the figure in the cage, swallowing.         “Mom?” the silver-striped she-cat whispered. Her voice was strangled and barely audible. The figure did not move. “Mom?” River tried to raise her voice, but her thumping heart seemed to drown the words.         River saw the figure flinch, as if this word burned. Then the figure turned, and River’s blood froze.  Her mother’s face had withered away. Her once beautiful coat hung on a dilapidated frame of bones, smothered by dried blood and dirt. Cuts crisscrossed her body. One ear had been torn away completely. However, these wounds were not what caught River’s eye. They were not what shattered her heart as she stared at the strange calico cat. It was her eyes. Her mother’s eyes were dull and empty. No light and no emotion shone in their depths. They were broken. She was broken.         River remembered her mother smiling, remembered her encouragement and jokes. Her mother had always been a strong cat: a bit impatient and over protective, but always loving, kind, and willing to protect her kits. Her eyes had always shone, even when River had visited her in the prisons, even when everything had gone downhill. Her eyes remained glowing and warm, full of fire.What did they do to break her? River whispered, the sound barely audible.         The brown she-cat choked back a sob as she called again,         “M-Mom? Mom, it’s me, it’s River. I came to get you out of he-”         “You aren’t River.”           River’s heart skipped a beat, and her blood felt like ice.          “I am! I’m River!” River cried desperately, unable to fight the tears. She kept her voice as low as she could, but it still seemed to echo in the bleak room.         “No…not River…” Her mother muttered. The empty green eyes were fixed on a point above her head. “River’s gone.

     The disheveled calico cat looked away, staring at the blank walls of her cage. She muttered under her breath, but River could not make out the words.         The silver-striped cat examined the door. It was a relatively simple Twoleg cage, impossible to open from the inside. With a shaking paw, she fiddled with the latch until she figured out how to unhook it. As the door swung open, River stepped inside hesitantly.         “I’m not gone, Mom. I’m right here.”          The empty eyes would not look at her. Her mother continued to mumble.           River took a step forward, her voice desperate.         “I’m here. I came back, Mom.”          Suddenly, the empty eyes were fixed upon her face. River felt a spark of hope light within her, only to be shattered as her mother spoke.         “River is gone. She was torn apart like Cloud and Emerald. River’s gone.” The empty eyes remained blank and expressionless as tears leaked from their edges, wetting the fur on her white cheeks. “They’re all gone…gone…gone like Freeze. Dead or gone…I’m all alone…”         River flinched and backed away at the mention of Emerald. She shook her head and gritted her teeth. For a moment she was consumed with grief. Cloud is…dead? River looked at her mother for comfort, but the empty cat before her was not her mother. My mother’s gone…just like my sister, my father, my brothers... why? River’s thoughts grew louder in her mind before she burst out, sobbing the words.          “Why is this happening?! Why, Forerunner!? Why did you send me here if this is what I would find!? Tell me…please…”          River crouched down, curling her tail around herself. She had lost…she had failed…         “River…”         River looked behind her. Stonekit was standing, looking down at her with sorrow in his blue eyes. She had forgotten he was there. Her friend padded forward and sat beside her.          “It’s alright, River.” The tom murmured. He licked River’s head comfortingly. “River, you’re mother is still here. We need to get her out. Come on.” Stonekit nudged her and gave her a small reassuring smile. “We can still get her out.”         River looked at him, and found his blue eyes calm and reassuring. For a moment, she allowed herself to get lost in them, allowing his composure to infect her. He’s right. I still have my mother. She’s still alive.         “Alright,” River gasped, brushing away her tears.           She got to her feet.         “Mom.” She rasped.          The strange cat did not move.         “Shard!” River meowed sternly, hoping that would get some response.          Her mother looked up at River for a moment, and for the first time, confusion glimmered in her eyes.         “Shard, follow me. Come on, please.”         The calico cat did not move for a moment, then, with painful cracks, she stood and began to walk forward. The brown cat walked beside her mother. I remember her being bigger. River thought as she wrapped her tail around the she-cat’s neck.         River guided the weak she-cat past the other cages, casting a regretful glance at the other prisoners. If only she could check the rest of the cages, just in case her brother was actually…River shook her head, sniffing and fixing her gaze straight forward. She could not afford to waste any time.         They had to get out of this place. She could deal with any regret, guilt, and sorrow she felt later. For now, they only had so much time.         The three cats had just reached the corridor when River heard the clang of the can against the window.         River and Stonekit froze. Looking toward the narrow window, they saw the shadow of the guard as he searched for the source of the noise.         “Run!” River hissed.         She pushed her mother roughly forward, only to freeze as voices echoed down the corridor. More guards were heading this way, and they were actually coming into the prison. Heart racing, River pushed her mother again, this time to the side, into the black pall of a shadow. It was not the best hiding place, not a hiding place at all, but hopefully that would not matter. Stonekit crouched beside her, and the three cats huddled together as the voices grew louder. With a spark of alarm, she looked back at her mother’s cage. The door was still open. Oh no…River felt despair seeping into her. We're dead!        The voices grew closer. River felt her friend pressed against her, and her mother’s sharp, jutting ribcage brushing her fur. The brown cat tried desperately to think of a way out of the situation. They could stay put, and hope the approaching enemies passed unaware. They could make a run for it, but River doubted her weakened mother could run. They could fight, but they were no match for a Legion cat, much less two or more. There was really no escape. River gulped. She felt like crying, like screaming in frustration. We came all this way! And my friends…Echokit, Stonekit…I can’t just let them die here! They have to get home!

        “River…”
River jumped. Eyes wide, she looked around for the source of the voice. In the shadows just to her left stood Forerunner. Barely visible, her ancestor sat with blue eyes glowing in the darkness.
        “River, I have given you the strength to overcome this obstacle. You will keep your promise.”
Forerunner began to fade, the last words echoing into nothing.
“Wait!” River hissed under her breath. She stared at the place where her ancestor had been sitting. There was nothing there. Disbelief and anger pricked at River’s paws. Are you kidding me?! She shows up now to give me that nonsense?!
The enemies appeared from the darkness, they’re voices now loud enough to be heard clearly.
“…but it makes no sense that we should move now! We’ve already got the forest! Why would he want to expand when we have more than enough territory!”
“Don’t talk so loud, String! You would be torn apart in seconds if he heard you speaking against him!”
“I know, I know! But…ugh! It makes no sense.”
“Well, it doesn’t matter if it makes sense. If he says we’re moving out, we’re moving out.”
The two cats walked by without noticing the four figures crouched in the shadows, but River knew they only had seconds before the guards noticed the open cage.
With a flick of her tail, River pushed her mother as silently as possible from the shadows and began down the tunnel. Hurry, hurry! River screeched in her head. Stonekit trotted alongside River’s mother, urging her on however he could.
“HEY!” One of the guards exclaimed.
River’s heart nearly burst with fear, and she picked up the pace.
“This cage is open!”
“Wasn’t that where Shard was kept? There’s no way she could have escaped in her condition! I saw how she was after Glare was done with her!”
“Search the area! Maybe she’s still around here!”
“You search, I’m going to tell one of the Generals. We must have a traitor in our ranks, freeing prisoners!”
River could see the exit just ahead. With freedom so close, River grabbed her mother’s scruff in her teeth and ran, dragging the weak cat along. Her mother yelped in protest.        “Hey!!” River heard the guard shout at the end of the tunnel. The three cats burst from the prison and River dashed down the alleyway. Stopping at the nearest trashcan, she pushed against it with all her strength.         Surprise shot through her when it tumbled with a huge crash to the ground. Echokit dashed around the corner, eyes sweeping the scene, and immediately darted forward to help Stonekit drag River’s mother along. River rolled the trashcan along the ground toward the entrance, hoping it might stall the guards for at least a little while.         “Come on! Please, please!” River stammered with fear as she left the can and raced after her friends.         Glancing behind her, the first guard had rounded the trash bin and was giving chase, closing fast. In the distance, at the end of the alley, the other soldier, who had been guarding the prison entrance, lifted his head in surprise before running to pursue the escapees as well.         “Go!” River shouted at her friends, whipping around to face the two approaching enemies.  During training, the brown cat had faced many Teachers. The slightest mistake resulted in cruel penalties, and River had had her fare share of fights, trying to defend herself against the worst of the punishment. Now, her past experiences would help her in this fight. As the first guard, a lean but well-muscled tabby tom, approached, River darted forward. Surprised, the tom tried to slow down, skidding on the pavement. River rushed behind him and bit down hard on his tail. The brown tom yelped in pain and fury and whipped around. But River was gone, having already moved around him. She attacked from the other side, swiping his flank with her claws.         River realized she was faster and stronger then ever before, moving too quickly for her enemy to comprehend. Is this what Forerunner meant? Distracted by this thought, River did not see the tom’s paw dart out. It caught her on the cheek, and she stumbled away, disoriented. The tom leapt, and for a moment, time seemed to slow to a crawl. River watched her enemy falling towards her, and without thinking, the she-cat found herself darting forward, sliding under her foe and slicing his stomach. How in the name of Starclan did I do that?! River wondered, staring with wide eyes as the tom crumbled to the ground in front of her, immobilized by the wound.         Shaking her head, she knew she couldn’t dwell on it. The black tom was approaching fast, and River doubted she could take him on. He was considerably larger then the one she had just defeated. Turning, the she-cat raced around the corner after her friends. Her cheek hurt from the tom’s blow, but she barely felt the pain. It’s not possible. Even with the training I received, I shouldn’t be able to defeat a Legion soldier in battle!          Rounding the corner, River sniffed the air, catching the fear scent of her friends. She sprinted forward, down ally after ally, glancing left and right. Where is everyone?! There should be soldiers everywhere! Ahead, River caught sight of Stonekit, Echokit and her mother staggering along as fast as they could. River ran up beside them and began pushing her mother forward.         “River! Thank Starclan!” Echokit gasped. “How did you get away from that tom?!”         “I-I don’t really know.” River stammered. “But there're more coming!”         “Never mind that, how do we get out of here?!” Stonekit panted River looked around. They had reached a crossroads. There were two alleys, left and right. River sniffed the air. She could smell cats approaching. Oh no! “This way!” River said, and pushed the others down the alley to their left.
They stumbled along as fast as they could, and River continued to scent the air, searching for any hint of the forest. Finally, a scent of leaves wafted to her nose, and River felt hope bloom in her chest. We’re almost there!
“Stop right there!” Came a voice behind them.
River glanced around and saw two city cats, one being the large guard tom and the other the soldier who was with the one she defeated. Looking ahead, they rounded a corner to find…a wall. No! River halted at the foot of the wall. Just beyond, River could see the tops of the trees. This marked the beginning of the outer settlements and the forest. They were so close! She turned to face the city cats. They had paused at the end of the small alley, smiling in their triumph. They know we can’t escape.
“Go!” River hissed desperately, turning to her friends.
Echokit and Stonekit looked at her, terror gleaming in their eyes. River tried to act calm, but she couldn’t manage it. She stepped forward and rubbed her head against Echokit’s chest, then turned and did the same to Stonekit. She could hear their thudding hearts.
“Go,” River whispered shakily. “If you jump over the wall, you can escape. Go back to the clans and warn them about the Legion. Even if they’re far away, we know that they’ll eventually move out of the city now. They need to be stopped.”
“We can’t leave you! What about your mother? The mission!” Echokit cried, her voice trembling.
“She can’t jump over that wall, and there’s no escaping here. Don’t worry, I’ll be right behind you. I just want to say goodbye, okay?”
River nudged them toward the wall. The Legion cats remained frozen at the front of the alley, smirking. They’ve always enjoyed torture, haven’t they? River thought bitterly. She smiled weakly at her friends.
“I’ll see you guys later.” chapter 7 Stonekit opened his mouth to protest, but closed it again, eyes wide. Gritting his teeth, he nodded and turned, jumping up onto the wall. He had to scrabble a bit, his back claws scratching the brick for a hold. Finally he made it, and Echokit followed. The city cats finally realized they were not going to surrender. As Echokit reached the top of the wall, the three soldiers raced forward. River was ready. She darted toward them, yowling. She saw the tom raise his paw, and River closed her eyes looking for the power she had wielded earlier. For a moment, she could see it, like a light inside her. Then the paw connected with her cheek, sending her flying.      River gasped as she hit the wall. She fell to the floor, wheezing. Through a haze, River looked up, trying to make sense of the scene. Echokit and Stonekit were gone. The three cats towered over her, and her mother was sitting, still as stone, staring at her. River’s thoughts were muddled, but she felt a flash of relief.*At least they didn’t follow Stonekit and Echokit…*     “You little piece of mouse-dung!” One of the city cat’s said.     His paw pressed against River’s neck. She struggled against his weight, but her efforts were wasted. *Forerunner…* River thought weakly. Where was her ancestor when she needed her?     “I remember you!” Another city cat said, stepping forward. “You’re Freeze’s little kit aren’t you? I thought you ran away!”     “She’s a deserter?” The first cat sneered, “Well then, this will be all the more fun, won’t it?”     River felt the tom’s claws unsheathe, cutting into her neck. River looked at her mother, still sitting frozen, staring at her. For a moment, River felt as if the world had grown silent. Not a sound was heard, yet River could have sworn her mother had said something. She stared at her mother’s mouth intently. *River…*     Not daring to hope, River lifted her gaze. Her eyes met her mother’s, and River felt like crying with joy.  Her mother’s eyes were clear. Clear, and green, like grass on a summer day.     Then River yowled in pain as the city cat’s claws tore into her ear. Sound returned to the world, and River heard her captors laughing.     “Get you’re filthy claws off my daughter!”     The three city cats spun in surprise. There was a flash of calico fur, and Shard rammed into the tom holding her kit down. River gasped in relief. Her lungs ached, and she lay for a moment, letting her spinning mind settle.      Shard landed on the tom in a screeching fury. Her claws zipped through the air, tearing at the tom’s unprotected belly fur. Finally, he struggled free and ran, leaving a thin trail of blood. Shard turned, her blazing green eyes fixed on the remaining city cats. They’re eyes widened, but they did not back down.     “Traitor!” One, a grey she-cat, yowled. She leapt, claws unsheathed.     Shard ducked, but the she-cat simply dug her teeth into Shard’s tail. River’s mother screeched in pain and anger. She twisted and sank her teeth into the she-cat’s neck, holding on tightly. The grey cat let go of Shard’s tail and struggled against the calico’s grip. Now the tom ran forward and battered Shard’s unprotected side. With a heave of unimaginable strength, Shard spun, still holding her enemy by the neck, and tossed the she-cat into the tom. They toppled, a ball of grey-brown fur, onto the pavement. Shard stood, back arched and fur on end, hissing.     “Run flee-pelts!” she spat.     The two city cats untangled and raced past Shard, skidding around the corner.      The moment they had gone, Shard collapsed. New scars marked her side, bleeding onto the ground, and old wounds had reopened. River scrambled to her feet, her head still aching, ear bleeding and ran to her mother’s side.     “Mom! Mom, are you okay?!”     Her mother’s eyes were half closed, shining dimly. Happiness sparkled in their depths.     “My kit…you are safe. You came back to me.”     Shard lifted her head and licked River’s cheek. River pressed her head into Shard’s chin, tears stinging her eyes.     For a moment, they remained still, happily embracing each other. Then Shard’s head fell onto the ground once again, eyes closed. River’s heart skipped a beat.     “Mom! Shard, hold on!”     Shard’s eye opened slightly.     “River…go. You have to leave before they come back with more soldiers.”     River shook her head, unable to speak. I can’t leave you again!     “River…River, think of your friends…”     River’s eyes widened. Stonekit and Echokit were still out there. They were still in danger.     “Go. I love you… I love you so much.”     Shard closed her eyes.     River gritted her teeth, tears flowing freely down her cheeks. *And I love you. May your spirit rest in peace, Mom.*     River looked up at the clouded, grey sky. There may be no stars here, but she didn’t care. *Look over her, you hear me? She may not have been a warrior, or a clan cat, but she died an honorable death, and you better welcome her like the hero she is.*     River bowed her head and licked her mother’s cheek, tasting salt and iron. Her mother’s sweet scent had long since faded, but River could imagine it.     “Goodbye…”     River turned and leapt, clawing her way up and over the wall. She fell onto the grass, ran across the road and entered the forest, eyes focused straight ahead. She would never look back at the city that stole her family from her."River!”  River jumped as the voice sounded next to her. She was barely aware of her surroundings. Ever since she had left the city, she had been running blindly. Looking around, she caught sight of Stonekit’s deep blue eyes gleaming from the shadows of a bramble bush.
  “Stonekit! I’m so glad you’re safe! Is Echokit here?”
  River rushed over to her friend, and Echokit emerged from behind her brother.
  “I’m fine, but we need to get out of here.”
  River nodded.
  “What…what happened to your mother?” Stonekit murmured.
  She simply shook her head. There was no reason to say anything. The trio bowed their heads, and River heard Echokit whisper,
  “May she walk with Starclan.”
  They remained still for a moment longer before turning and walking quickly through the trees. Not a word was spoken. The sky began to lighten, and a chill wind drifted through the bare trees. Most of the snow had melted, but patches of white still clung to the ground, thick and icy. There was a smell of wet earth in the air, tainted by the city’s stench. The three cats picked their way over mud and slippery brown leaves in depressing silence. They had failed.The trio left the city far behind them without much trouble. They passed the roads with their roaring monsters, the fields, asleep in winter, and went around the Twolegplace. River often wondered what she would do when they got back to the clan. Would they accept her? How would Lightstar react? After all, they had left the clan on a dangerous journey without permission. On top of that, all three of them were still young, only nine moons old. River wouldn’t be surprised if they returned only to find Thunderclan considered them dead.   They stopped at the edge of a large forest to hunt and rest. As Stonekit devoured the last of a squirrel, he said,     “We’re almost back to the clans.”     “Really?” Echokit asked, although, there was little enthusiasm in her mew.     River looked at her friends, laying across from her. They had grown in the last three moons. Stonekit’s coat was thick, his shoulders broad, and he had grown tall. Echokit was lithe and graceful now, with wiry muscles in her legs. They’ll make great warriors.      “Hey guys?” River began. The her friends looked at her quizzically.     “When we get back to the clans, I know Lightstar will be upset…”     They lowered their heads in agreement.     “I just want you to know that if…if the punishment is extreme, I’m going to take the blame.”     “*What?!*” Echokit exclaimed.     Stonekit stared at River.     “This was *my*mission! It’s my fault that you left your clan, so it makes sense that I’d take the punishment!” River reasoned.     “That makes no sense, River!” Stonekit snapped, and River flinched at the anger in his voice. “Listen,” he continued, his voice calm but firm, “It was our decision to leave the clans and come with you. You didn’t force us to go, and we deserve whatever punishment *our* decision demands.”     River wanted to protest. She felt a flash of anger streak through her, *why can’t you just let me do this?! If anything had happened to you, it would have been my fault!*     Without a word, Echokit marched past River.     “Come on. If we’re near the clans, we may as well walk the home stretch.”     Stonekit followed, and River brought up the rear, still feeling confused by her friends’ stubborn refusal to let her take responsibility.

        chapter 8............................................................................................................................................................

        It had been three moons since they had set foot in this territory. River had only been here for a few days before, yet somehow the ground felt familiar. She found herself relaxing as she gazed around at the trees, standing tall and proud. The bushes were nothing but masses of bare branches, and a coat of brown leaves covered the forest floor, like a soft blanket underfoot.     “Do you know the way to the camp?” Echokit piped.     River was glad to hear the old enthusiasm returning to her mew.     “Nope. But something tells me it’s that way.” Stonekit said, pointing with his nose into the trees.     River’s ear twitched and she spun just in time to see the grey blur knock into her. She gasped in surprise as she was pinned to the floor.     “Stay right there, intruder!” Hissed the grey she-cat.     There came a gasp of surprise.     “Silverpaw! Silverpaw it’s Stonekit and Echokit!”      River felt the weight of her captor’s paw lessen.      “What?!”     The weight disappeared and River sat up.     Three Thunderclan warriors sat staring at them in amazement. River did not recognize two of them, but Silverpaw she remembered. The grey she-cat had given River freshkill when she had first discovered Thunderclan.     “Stonekit! Echokit! How-When-What-“ Silverpaw stammered.     “We’re so glad to see you again!” one of the other cats said. She was a brown tabby with blue eyes. There was a scar running down the side of her face.     “Thank you!” Stonekit gasped. River could tell he was excited. His paws twitched when he was happy.     “Well, let’s waste no time! We have to get you back to camp. You’re mother has been so worried!” The third warrior, a black tom, meowed.     River followed the Thunderclan cats back to their camp. Silverpaw fell back, walking beside her.     “I remember you! You’re River, right?”      “Yeah…” River said quietly.     “No need to be so shy.” Silverpaw laughed, bumping River on the shoulder.      River blinked in gratitude and relaxed her stiff shoulders.      Ahead, she could see the slope that led to the hollow. All six cats padded, single file, down the path and through the bramble barrier.  River took a deep breath, hesitating for a moment. *How will Lightstar react? Will she banish me?*River shook her head and pushed through the barrier.There was an instant uproar the moment the clan members realized who had returned.  “Stonekit!”
  “Echokit!”
  “They’ve returned!”
  “Someone tell Leafheart!”
  River watched as her friends were welcomed. A warm feeling bubbled inside her.*I’m happy they’ve received such a welcome. They deserve it after everything they’ve done.*
  Suddenly, River caught sight of Leafheart. Her friend’s mother stalked toward her kits with anger blazing in her green eyes. Her light brown, tabby fur stood on end and her teeth were gritted in a snarl. River saw the crowd part, and Stonekit and Echokit stiffen, terrified in the face of Leafheart’s fury.
  “What in Starclan’s name were you thinking?!” Leafheart shouted, rage in every word.
  “We-we-“ Stonekit and Echokit began in unison.
  Suddenly, Leafheart rushed forward and covered them in licks. Her anger evaporating instantly as she wrapped herself around them, crying tears of joy.
  “I was so worried!” Leafheart sobbed. “Don’t you ever leave again! Don’t even think about leaving! Oh my kits! You’re home…”
  Stonekit and Echokit protested, trying to duck away from their mother’s tongue, but River could see how happy they were. They were crying too.
  For a moment, River felt a pang in her heart, imagining her own mother, lying on the pavement, looking up at her with warmth and love. Looking up, the stars shone above, bright and strong. *Are you up there, Mom? Did Starclan welcome you? Or maybe you’re with Forerunner…*
  River was shaken from her thoughts as the clearing suddenly fell silent. Looking around, River realized they were all staring at the ledge at the edge of the clearing. Lightstar’s den. Following their gazes, River saw the proud, snow-white leader standing on the ledge. Even in the darkness of night, River saw her emerald eyes survey the clearing, finally landing on Stonekit and Echokit.
  “I have an important announcement!” Lightstar exclaimed. “Stonekit and Echokit have returned to us!”
  Cheers rang out, loud and strong. River was swept away in the pure joy of the moment, and she found herself laughing.
  “Furthermore,” Lightstar continued. “They have brought with them a guest. She stayed with us for a short time before. River.”
  Eyes turned in her direction, and River tried not to shrink back into the shadows. There were some nods of encouragement, but a lot more glares of suspicion.
  “Now, we are all happy to see them returned to us safely after all this time. Starclan has indeed watched over them for these three long moons. This does not excuse the fact, however, that they left without permission.”
  The crowd was silent.
  “As for their punishment, I believe there is not better cat to decide then Leafheart, their mother. I will speak to her on the matter. Moreover, I will also be speaking to River in my den. Expect another meeting in the morning!”
  Lightstar jumped from her perch and padded toward Leafheart, Stonekit and Echokit. River sat, unsure what to do until Lightstar’s tail twitch, beckoning her over. River rushed forward to join her friends.
  “Will you all accompany me to my den?” Lightstar asked, although it was obvious this was a command, not a request.River fell into step with Stonekit and Echokit as they made their way up the tumbled rocks and into the cave beyond. The den was dark, shadows lay heavily in the corners and River settled uneasily on the cool floor.  “Now,” Lightstar began. She sat, her white fur glowing in the darkness, with her tail wrapped over her paws. “Tell me exactly why you left the clan, and what happened to you. And do not lie. I am rather good at detecting lies.”     River gulped and spoke up.     “It was my fault. I-“     “River, please,” Lightstar interrupted firmly. “You do not make decisions for other cats. I am talking to Stonekit and Echokit.”     Chastened, River fell silent.     Stonekit stepped forward with a nod from Echokit.      He took a breath and began. Leaving out no details, he told Lightstar of their journey to the city. His voice shook when he reached the part where they had escaped.     “We left the city and came straight back here. Unfortunately, it wasn’t…we didn’t succeed in rescuing her mother.”      River’s eyes met his and she could see guilt. Surprise pricked at River’s paws. Did her friend blame himself for her mother’s death? Glancing at Echokit, she noticed the same guilt in her friend’s stooped shoulders.     “Thank you, Stonekit. It sounds like you had quite a difficult time." Lightstar murmured.     The three young cats bowed their heads.     “Leafheart.” Lightstar meowed, turning to the mother. “What do you think of this?”     “I think that they were extremely foolish, and that this should not be taken lightly.” Leafheart said.     Stonekit and Echokit flinched.     “However,” their mother continued, “They have been through punishment enough. I am sure they learned their lesson when they failed.”     Stonekit and Echokit’s eyes widened.     Lightstar nodded approval.     “Yes, I agree. Stonekit, Echokit, do you admit you were wrong to leave the clan at such a young age?”     Her friend’s bowed their heads in consent. For a moment they were still, then Echokit looked up, her amber eyes blazing.     “With respect, Lightstar, I agree it was foolish, but I do not believe we were wrong in our decision.”     Lightstar’s ear twitched.     “We saw a friend who needed help, and it is the duty of a warrior to assist their clan mates. We did the right thing in helping River on her mission, even though we failed.”     River stared at her friend. Once again, she was amazed with the amount of loyalty these cats had.     Lightstar remained silent, holding Echokit’s gaze. Then the clan leader said,     “Echokit, you will make a fine warrior one day.”     River had never seen her friend so surprised. Her eyes were as wide as the moon at the praise of her clan leader.     “There is truth in your words. It is part of the warrior code to help another in need, and it is true that River needed the help. However, you must remember your limits. However good your intentions, nothing comes of putting yourself in danger, and worrying those around you.”     Echokit bowed her head.     For the first time, Lightstar turned to River,     “Now we must consider what to do about our guest.”     River looked up at the leader, dreading the next words.     “Echokit,” Lightstar continued, “when you spoke just now, I heard you call River a clanmate. Do you consider her one of Thunderclan?”     Echokit nodded,     “Yes, I do Lightstar.”     Lightstar’s eyes glimmered.     “River, the last time you were here, I offered you a place in the clan, and you refused due to your connection to the city. If I were to offer you the chance again, would you consider joining Thunderclan?”     River nearly choked in her response,     “Yes! I would love to join you!” She exclaimed, then her eyes widened and she shrank in embarrasement. *Idiot*, She thought.     Lightstar let out a short laugh. It was high and light hearted, completely opposite of Lightstar’s formal demeanor.     “Then we shall hold your apprentice ceremonies in the morning.” Lightstar said.     Stonekit and Echokit looked up, their eyes filled with excitement. Lightstar smiled,     “Yes, all three of you will be apprentices in the morning. You have had to wait three moons longer then most clan kits, and you will have to work extra hard to catch up. River,” Lightstar continued, “When you become an apprentice of Thunderclan, I will be able to punish you.”     River gaped.     “But-“     “You, at the moment, are not a member of Thunderclan, therefore I have no power to punish you. However, you have accepted my invitation, so I am now your leader. We will discuss your punishment in the morning.”     River couldn’t help it, she laughed. The situation was just so amazing. *Who cares about punishment?! I’m going to be an apprentice of Thunderclan!*

         chapter 9.......................................................................................................................................................... “Let all cats old enough to catch their own prey join here beneath the High Ledge for a clan meeting.”      River woke to the sound of the clan summons. In an instant she was on her feet, excitement buzzing in her bloodstream. Her heart pounded. Racing out of the medicine den, River dashed to find Stonekit and Echokit. She ran straight into them. They tumbled together to the ground, laughing.     “Come on!” Stonekit exclaimed, untangling himself.     “Wait just a second!” Leafheart stalked forward and grabbed Stonekit’s scruff. “Look at you! The entire clan is going to think I raised a badger!”      Leafheart began licking Stonekit clean. All the while he protested fiercely, scrabbling to get away. River and Echokit watched, laughing too hard to do anything. Finally, Stonekit managed to get away.      “I can do my own cleaning!” He shouted, clearly embarrassed.     Echokit’s eyes widened as Leafheart came for her.     “Wait! I can clean myself!” She yelped, but it was too late.     River laughed, then bent and began cleaning herself quickly.      Moments later, they were standing at the edge of the clearing, looking up at Lightstar as she addressed the clan.     “Today we name three new apprentices.”     There were murmurs of confusion. River heard a few people muttering beside her.     “Three?”     “I thought only Echokit and Stonekit….     “Is she saying…?”     “Echokit, please step forward”     Echokit made an effort to appear calm, but failed halfway to the HighLedge and ran the rest of the way, bouncing in place. Leafheart rolled her eyes, and Stonekit chuckled nervously.     “From this day, until you receive your warrior name, you will be known as Echopaw. After much consideration, I have chosen Tigersong to be your mentor. Tigersong, you are patient and wise. I believe you will pass these qualities on to Echopaw.”     Tigersong stepped forward, and River realized she was the same cat who had found them in the woods. The scar along her face seemed to gleam in the sunlight, and River wondered how she had acquired such a wound.     Tigersong padded gracefully over to Echopaw and touched noses with her. They’re like night and day. River observed.     “Stonekit, step forward.” Lightstar continued.     Stonekit padded to the foot of the High Ledge. River saw his paws twitching with excitement.     “Stonekit, from this day until you receive your warrior name, you shall be known as Stonepaw. Blackpool. You did very well in training Sparrowbreeze. You are strong and a skillful fighter. Pass these qualities onto Stonepaw.”      A black tom with ice blue eyes stepped from the crowd, and Stonepaw touched noses with him.     “And finally, River, please step forward.”     There were murmurs from the crowd.     River walked stiffly forward, trying to calm her thudding heart.      “River, although you did not grow up in our clan, you possess the qualities of a great warrior. From this day until you receive your warrior name, you shall be known as Riverpaw, an apprentice of Thunderclan. Ashheart,”     Riverpaw saw a grey tom step from the crowd. His eyes were clear amber, like fire in the night. He padded forward confidently.     “Ashheart, you are a noble warrior of Thunderclan, and a descendent of the mighty Lionblaze, I am sure you will do well in teaching this young cat our ways.”     Ashheart lowered his head, and Riverpaw touched noses with him.      “Welcome to the clan,” He whispered.     Riverpaw blinked gratefully at him.     “Stonepaw! Echopaw! Riverpaw! Stonepaw! Echopaw! Riverpaw!”     Riverpaw tried to ignore the hesitation when they said her new name. *I’m a clan cat! Now I just have to prove it!*

chapter 10.......................................................................................................................................................... When Riverpaw finally finished carrying her prey to the clearing, she found Ashheart waiting for her, dark tail wrapped around his paws.
“That took you quite a while.” He commented.

    “I was…well, I forgot where I buried the magpie.” Riverpaw explained hurriedly.

    Ashheart gave her a quizzical look, but did not question her further.

    “This looks like a good haul,” He continued with an approving look at Riverpaw’s pile.

Riverpaw licked her chest fur, embarrassed by the praise, yet happy all the same.

    Glancing around, Riverpaw realized that Stonepaw and Echopaw were nowhere to be seen.

    “Where are Stonepaw and Echopaw?” Riverpaw asked.

    “They both passed their assessment and are in the apprentice den.”

    “Oh,” Riverpaw said. She looked eagerly at her mentor.

    “Yes, Riverpaw, you passed.” He said warmly, interpreting her look.

    Riverpaw felt a wave of excitement and relief.*I’ll be a warrior before long!*She thought, then added, *but don’t be too hasty. You’ve only been an apprentice for two moons.*

    “As a reward, I’ve talked with Lightstar about going to the Gathering tonight.” Ashheart told her.

    Riverpaw’s eyes widened. She had forgotten it was a full moon, and that the clans gathered beneath it to share news. Two moons ago, a day after her first day as a Thunderclan apprentice, Lightstar had summoned her to her den to receive punishment. She had told Riverpaw that, until she thought it time, Riverpaw would not be able to go to a Gathering and she could not leave the clearing alone. Riverpaw had not questioned her and until now, her sentence had been upheld. The thought of attending this gathering was thrilling.

    “Did-did she say I could go?”

    “She said if you passed, then by all means. You, Stonepaw, and Echopaw will attend the Gathering.”

    Riverpaw couldn’t help it. She thanked her mentor and raced unceremoniously to the apprentice den.

    “We’re going to the gathering!” Riverpaw exclaimed, bursting into the den. She tripped over Eaglepaw on the way in. The prickly white apprentice jumped to his feet, snarling.

    “Watch where you’re going, *outsider*!” he hissed.

    Riverpaw ignored him. Stonepaw and Echopaw sat up, looking at her with excitement.

    “We’re going to the Gathering?!” They gasped in unison.

    Echopaw bounced happily while Stonepaw’s paws twitched uncontrollably.

    “This is so great!” he said.

    “Great? *Great*?! It’s awesome!” Echopaw cried, still bouncing.

    Riverpaw watched her friend happily. When Echopaw finally quieted down, Riverpaw had time to ask,

    “So did your hunting assessment go well?”

    “Yeah! Really well!” Stonepaw piped up, “I caught two squirrels, a blackbird, and a *huge*vole!”

    “It was really *really* big! When he carried it into camp I thought he’d caught a badger!”

    “It wasn’t that big mouse-brain,” Stonepaw sighed, but Riverpaw could tell he was pleased.

    “I caught two birds, two mice and a squirrel.” Echopaw carried on, “We both passed. Tigersong said that, if we keep up the good work, we may be warriors in a few moons!”

    “She was exaggerating. We’ve only been apprentices for two moons. I’m sure we need quite a bit more training before we’re warriors.” Stonepaw reminded her.

    “But we also had to wait three extra moons before we became apprentices, that might mean we’ll be warriors sooner!” Echopaw reasoned.

    Echopaw’s words still sent a thrill of excitement through Riverpaw.*I wonder what my warrior name will be?*

    “What would you guys want to be called?” Riverpaw asked.

    Stonepaw cocked his head, thinking.

    “I don’t know. I’d be fine with anything, really. It’s an honor to even become a warrior!”

    “Oh! I want to be called Echobreeze! You know, because I’m really fast?”

    “Ha! You aren’t that fast!”

    “I am!”

    “Prove it!”

    “You wanna go?!”

    “Guys, woah! Settle down!” Riverpaw laughed, “It’s getting late, and we better save our energy. Besides,” Riverpaw added mischievously, “I’m faster then both of you!”

    Echopaw pounced on Riverpaw, pinning her to the ground.

    The trio laughed.The sun had set in the west, and the moon was rising, full and bright. Everything glowed with a silvery light. The trees swished in a light breeze, and there was a faint sound of prey. Riverpaw closed her eyes, relishing the silence. The smell of soil and leaves washed around her, strong and sweet. Ashheart brushed against Riverpaw’s side, his amber eyes glowing in the darkness. Stonepaw and Echopaw were to Riverpaw’s right, standing beside their mentors, Blackpool and Tigersong.

Riverpaw craned her neck to see to the front of the group, trying to spot Lightstar. *It’s almost time to go!*
    Finally, the leader’s white pelt flashed, and the cats ahead of Riverpaw rushed out of the clearing.
    Riverpaw felt a thrill go through her as she surged out with the others. They raced through the trees, heading toward the lake. The group burst from the forest and onto the pebble-strewn shore.
    Riverpaw glanced to the left, up to the moor, as they walked along the waterside. The slopes were black in the darkness, shrubbery only dimly visible. However, as Riverpaw watched, shapes became visible, and they slowly made their way across the flat, windy hills toward the lake. *Windclan*. She realized.
    The other clan bounded swiftly over the moor until they were walking along beside the Thunderclan cats. Riverpaw wished she were nearer the Windclan cats so that she might share a greeting with one. *I wonder if they are like the Thunderclan cats.*
    The two clans traveled beside each other until they reached the other side of the lake, where Riverpaw caught glimpse of a fallen tree stretching across a short expanse of water, connecting the mainland to a small island. One by one, cats from both clans made their way across the bridge.
    Riverpaw glanced at the water on either side of the bridge.
    “Why don’t we all just swim? That tree looks…unstable.” She whispered to Stonepaw and Echopaw.
    They looked at her with wide eyes, shocked.
    “What are you, a Riverclan cat? We don’t swim.” Echopaw said, eyeing the water warily.
    “Yeah, I’d prefer the tree any day.” Stonepaw added.
    Riverpaw shrugged, bewildered. She had never had a problem with water, and now she wondered if that was strange.
    Finally, it was her turn to cross, and she hopped onto the tree, balancing uneasily. Slowly, she made her way across, digging her claws into the slippery surface. Halfway across, her paw slipped, and she fell with a short gasp of surprise into the black water. Pumping her legs, she kept her head above the surface of the water and swam easily to the other island shore. Riverpaw shook her fur, embarrasement burning beneath her pelt. *Great, you managed to embarasse yourself in front of TWO clans...*
*Ashheart, who had successfully crossed the bridge, padded toward her with amusement in his eyes.*
    “If I hadn’t known better, I would have thought you were a Riverclan cat. You swim well, although, let’s not make a habit of it.” He chuckled.
    Riverpaw dipped her head without a word. Despite her mentor’s teasing tone, his words had helped, and she began licking her pelt quickly, hoping she would dry off soon.Ashheart led the way toward the center of the island. Cats moved through the undergrowth all around, heading in the same direction. Suddenly, the two Thunderclan cats emerged from the undergrowth into a huge clearing. It was in the shape of a circle, and at the center sat a huge oak tree, it’s branches spanning the length of the clearing, and it’s highest leaves towering over the tops of other trees. Riverpaw gaped up at the enormous oak for a moment, then gazed in equal wonder at the multitude of cats who surrounded it. The wind carried their scent, and Riverpaw identified each group as a separate clan. To her left sat Riverclan, their pelts sleek and shining in the moonlight. Just beyond them were Shadowclan, with long, narrow muzzles and dark fur. And to her right were Windclan, just settling down after their trip across the bridge. These cats were all small and skinny, but Riverpaw could tell they were fast and definitely worthy opponents.
Thunderclan had seated themselves just in front of Riverpaw, and it was easy to spot Echopaw and Stonepaw in the crowd. Riverpaw padded toward them.

    “Let’s go meet some of the other clan apprentices! I’ve always wanted to talk to someone from Shadowclan!” Echopaw babbled excitedly.

    Riverpaw nodded in agreement.

    “I think it would be nice to talk to all the clans. Do we have enough time?”

    “Yeah, we should be fine!” Stonepaw said, looking around. Something seemed to catch his eye and he strode forward, beckoning for them to follow. “I see a group of apprentices over there. Let’s see what they’re talking about.”

    Riverpaw followed her friend’s through the crowd, scooting around warriors and apologizing when she stepped on someone’s paw. Finally, she reached the group, and caught scent of apprentices from Riverclan, Windclan and Shadowclan.

    “…and then I ran forward and slashed the dog’s nose open! It ran yelping into the bushes, and I doubt it will forget me any time soon. That’s how I saved my clan!”

    Riverpaw craned her neck to see who was speaking. He was a large Shadowclan cat, nearly a warrior, with dark amber eyes and a black and white pelt. The other apprentices were staring at him in wonder, but Riverpaw wondered if his story held any truth.

    “I fought a fox once!” Piped another apprentice, this one from Riverclan.

    “Oh yeah? Did you fight it one on one?” The black and white shadowclan apprentice sneered. “Because I beat that dog on my own. I’m sure I’ll be a warrior by next Gathering, just wait.”

    “I didn’t fight it by myself, Thistlepaw helped me!” the Riverclan apprentice said. He gestured to a brown she-cat next to him, who ducked her head and murmured a small hello.

    Riverpaw wished she could somehow join into the conversation, but she did not fancy bragging about any of her past fights. After all, if she had the option, she would not have had to fight at all. Stonepaw and Echopaw became engrossed in the conversation, and Echopaw soon held the apprentice’s attention as she recounted their journey to the city.

    Riverpaw Withdrew from the crowd, feeling out of place. She crept away, looking for Ashheart. *I’ll just wait with him until it starts…* Riverpaw thought.

    “Hey!”

    Riverpaw looked around and spotted a grey she-cat with amber eyes running towards her.

    “Hi! I saw you back there. Don’t you want to talk?”

    “Umm…yeah, I just didn’t know how to get into the conversation.” Riverpaw admitted.

    “Well, that’s fine! Those toms back there can be real show-offs. It’s hard to say anything when they’re bragging all the time.” The grey she-cat laughed, rolling her eyes.

    Riverpaw nodded and laughed too.

    “So, what’s your name? I’m Crystalpaw. I haven’t seen you at any of the other gatherings, but you don’t look like a new apprentice.”

    “My name is Riverpaw, and I was only made an apprentice two moons ago. I started late because I well…I wasn’t really born in Thunderclan.”

    Crystalpaw’s eyes widened.

    “Really? Well, I hope you like it there now! I’m part of Riverclan. Perhaps we can talk some more at the next gathering!” the Riverclan apprentice said happily.

    “Yeah, that would be great!” Riverpaw said. Crystalpaw waved her tail and bounded away, leaving Riverpaw to stare after her. *She was really nice…*

    After a moment, Riverpaw continued through the crowd, making her way toward Ashheart, who stood talking to a grey she-cat with dark markings running along her pelt.

    “I’m glad Thunderclan is doing so well.” The she-cat said. She turned blue eyes on Riverpaw. “Hello.”

    “Hi,” Riverpaw dipped her head.

    “You must be Ashheart’s new apprentice, Riverpaw. Please to meet you, I am Stormbreeze, medicine cat of Windclan.”

    “Nice to meet you.” Riverpaw said, a little flustered. She hadn’t imagined meeting another medicine cat. They seemed to be of a high rank.

    Stormbreeze laughed.

    “Relax, Riverpaw. We may be from different clans, but we can still be friends during the full moon.”

    Riverpaw’s tense shoulders loosened and she blinked gratefully at the grey she-cat. Stormbreeze dipped her head to Ashheart and said cheerfully.

    “I had better return to my clan, but it was nice to see you Ashheart. Talk at the next gathering, perhaps?”

    “Most certainly,” Ashheart replied, dipping his head. Riverpaw saw a glimmer of happiness in his eyes, and Echopaw’s voice sounded in her head, *Cats from different clans can’t have relationships.*

    Suddenly, the murmuring of many cats died away. Riverpaw looked around, confused, then a flash of white caught her eye. The leaders were jumping into the branches of the great oak tree. A grey tom with speckled white fur sat on the lowest branch, gazing out over the clearing with green eyes. His greying muzzle was proof that he was an older cat. Lightstar seated herself beside him, pure white fur glowing. Beside Lightstar, barely visible, sat a dark ginger she-cat with yellow eyes. She watched the gathered cats proudly, back straight. Beside her and nearest the trunk of the Oak, a grey tom with large amber eyes perched.

    Riverpaw wondered which leader led which clan. Her question was answered a moment later when the speckled tom farthest away from the trunk spoke.

    “Riverclan has had a plentiful hunting season. Fish are swimming well in the streams, and so far there have been little sign of Twolegs. We had a small incident with a fox, but Oakfur, Streampaw and Thistlepaw took care of it quickly. Fallenstar, I must warn you that the fox was heading toward Shadowclan territory when they drove it away.”

    The ginger she-cat, Fallenstar, dipped her head.

    Lightstar stood next and gave her report, mentioning nothing more than that prey was running well and Mooncloud had announced her pregnancy with Duststorm, the Thunderclan deputy’s, kits. When Lightstar sat once more, Fallenstar stood.

    “Thank you, Rainstar, for your warning. Shadowclan is well. We have three new kits, Frogkit, Icekit and Robinkit. Prey is plentiful and our warriors are strong.”

    She sat down. Riverpaw overheard slight mutters, as though some in the crowd did not quite believe the Shadowclan leader. Next, the Windclan leader stood.

    “Lately there has been a strong scent of dogs in our territory. We presume the Twolegs who live in the horseplace have gotten a new dog, however we cannot be sure. I would like to warn every clan to be alert. Other than that, rabbits are abundant in our territory, and our clan is well fed and strong.”

    As the Windclan leader, Riverpaw heard his name was Owlstar, completed his report, all four leaders jumped from the oak tree’s branch. This, Riverpaw realized, was the end of the Gathering. Looking around, she could see the clans separating. She caught sight of Deeplake, murmuring to three other cats, whom Riverpaw guessed were the other medicine cats. Stormbreeze caught her eye and nodded. Riverpaw nodded back, then noticed something odd. As Stormbreeze turned back to Deeplake, her expression became serious. The other medicine cats, a white tom and a dark grey tabby she-cat wore the same expression. Deeplake must be discussing serious matters, Riverpaw thought, and wondered if it had anything to do with the scarlet river prophecy. She could not be sure.

    “Thunderclan! To the bridge!” Lightstar’s voice rang out, and Riverpaw tore her eyes from the medicine cats to follow Ashheart out of the clearing.

chapter 11

Sunlight beamed into the apprentice den, and Riverpaw squinted against the glare. She blinked away lingering drowsiness and stretched. With a yawn, she realized her cheeks were wet once again. *I must have dreamed last night,* Riverpaw realized with an ache of sadness. Her mother’s eyes flashed through her thoughts, green depths sparking with warmth. Riverpaw closed her eyes and willed the image away. Glancing over, she saw that Stonepaw still slept peacefully in his nest. Echopaw was nowhere to be seen. The entrance rustled, and Riverpaw looked up.
Blackpool’s head appeared.
    “Hello, Riverpaw. Wake Stonepaw will you? We’re having a training session this morning.”
Riverpaw nodded, and her friend’s mentor disappeared. Taking a breath, she tried her best to cheer up.
    Leaning over, Riverpaw poked Stonepaw.
    “Hey, wake up sleepy head.”
    Stonepaw stirred, grumbling.
    Riverpaw let out a small mrrow of laughter, and kneaded his side with her paws.
    “Come on. We have a training session to get to.”
    “Alright, alright. I’m up.”
    Stonepaw stood slowly and stretched, reaching his front legs forward as far as he could. The two apprentices made their way out of the den and across the clearing, where Ashheart and Blackpool sat waiting.
    “Took you long enough.” Blackpool grumbled.
    Stonepaw attempted to stifle a yawn and failed.
    “Sorry, Blackpool.” He said.
    Blackpool grunted and led the way out of the camp. As they reached the zenith of the slope out of camp, they met a border patrol made up of Duststorm, Dappletail, Sparrowbreeze and Eaglepaw. Eaglepaw threw Riverpaw a dirty look, which Riverpaw did her best to ignore.
    “Morning Duststorm, how is Mooncloud?” Ashheart said as they passed the patrol.
    Duststorm beamed proudly.
    “She’s doing well. In a moon she’ll be kitting!”
    “That’s great! I hope the kits are strong and healthy.” Ashheart replied, and the patrol continued down into the camp.
    Riverpaw felt the sadness of the morning wash away as they walked among the trees. Stonepaw, still waking up, dragged his paws as he walked. *I know how to wake him up,* Riverpaw thought.
    “Hey, think you can beat me in the session today?” Riverpaw asked mischeviously. Stonepaw’s ears pricked and his blue eyes sparked.
    “Is that a challenge?” He asked.
    “Depends…think you’re up for it?”
    “I might just be. But what’s in it for me if I win?” He countered.
    She thought for a moment.
    “How about loser has to do the winner’s apprentice duties for a full day.” She proposed.
    “Weak. Three days.”
    “Fine, we got a deal. You’re never going to win.”
    Stonepaw laughed and flicked Riverpaw’s ear with his tail.
    “We’ll see.”
    They arrived at the training area, a clearing with soft earth covering the forest floor.
“Alright,” Blackpool spoke up. “Today we will have a simple sparing match. Claws sheathed of course. Show your mentors what you have learned, and don’t disappoint us.”
    Riverpaw took her position on one side of the clearing. Stonepaw stood opposite her, determination alive in his eyes.
    For a moment, there was silence, then Blackpool shouted, “Begin!” and the apprentices raced to confront each other.
    Stonepaw darted beneath Riverpaw, paw flashing out in an effort to trip her. Riverpaw leapt over him and twisted in midair, attempting to land on top of him. Stonepaw grunted as she fell onto his back, but quickly recovered and rolled to disengage her. Riverpaw, crushed beneath his weight, let go of his back and darted away, facing him once more.
    This time, Riverpaw was the one to dash forward and trip him. Her paw connected with his back legs and she felt a surge of triumph as he toppled sideways. His belly exposed, Riverpaw reared to batter at the soft grey fur. Before she could accomplish this however, Stonepaw’s rear legs rose and caught her in the stomach. With a heave, he threw her off and she landed a few tail-lengths away, gasping but unhurt. The two apprentices righted themselves and stared at each other, considering the other’s weaknesses.
*He’s a good fighter.* Riverpaw admired.
    Suddenly, Stonepaw raced forward. As he pounded toward her, Riverpaw saw an opening on his left side.*I’ll dart to the side and ram him. That will leave me with enough time to pin him down.*As he grew closer, Riverpaw prepared herself, ready to execute her attack.
    And her vision went black.Riverpaw opened her eyes in the Greenleaf place, eyes darting frantically. *I wasn’t asleep! How did I get here?!*
The undergrowth shook and Forerunner emerged.

    “Forerunner! How did you-I was in the middle of a sparing match!” Riverpaw said angrily. She was still bewildered by the sudden vision.

    “I realize. I am sorry, River, but –“

    “And why did you leave so suddenly two moons ago?! I’ve had so many questions!” Riverpaw continued. She didn’t know why she was saying this now, but suddenly a deep anger had surfaced. *Why didn’t Forerunner come back? Why did she wait two moons to speak to me again?!*
*Forerunner’s expression remained the same, and her tone was as mild and smooth as ever as she continued.*
    “I apologize, River, but this cannot wait. I have a message…from your brother, Cloud.”

    Riverpaw’s eyes widened.

    “What?” she whispered, “from…from Cloud?”

    “Yes.”

    Riverpaw’s head spun and her heart raced. *After all this time, I thought he was dead. If he’s alive…*

    “Where is he?!” Riverpaw demanded frantically. She stepped toward her ancestor, “don’t you dare just fade away again! Tell me!”

    “He is in the mountains to the east. He resides behind a curtain of water, with a group of cats who call themselves a Tribe.”

    Riverpaw was gasping for breath, excitement turning her blood to fire.

    “How can I get to him?!”

    “Patience, River. You shall know soon enough. Your brother is in danger.”

    Riverpaw’s heart skipped a beat.

    “What’s wrong?”

    “He and the other cats of the Tribe are being hunted.”

    “By what?”

    “I do not know. You must go to the mountains River, and help your brother.”

    Riverpaw nodded. Then something occurred to her.

    “Why do you want me to go to the mountains? Is this part of fulfilling my promise?”

    “Yes.”

    “But how? My promise was that I would save my mother and I failed-“

    “You also promised to save your brother, River. You thought he had died, but you are wrong. He is in danger, and you promised to help him.”

    Anger rose in River again.

    “If you knew he was alive, why didn’t you tell me?! If you really want me to keep my promise then why don’t you tell me everything?!”

    “You do not need to know everything. Not yet. Patience, River. All will become clear if you allow your destiny to reveal itself.”

    River gritted her teeth.

    “That’s not an answer! Tell me Forerunner! Tell me something, *anything*!”

    Forerunner gazed silently at the apprentice. There was no wind in the Greenleaf place, but Riverpaw thought she felt the slightest breeze ruffle her fur.

    “The gift flows strongest in you.”

    “What-“

    The clearing and her ancestor melted away. Darkness groped at River’s vision, then quickly receded, pushed away by warm shafts of sunlight. Riverpaw was back in the clearing, staring up at the newleaf foliage of the Thunderclan forest.

    “What does that mean?” Riverpaw heard herself croak.

    As her vision cleared and sharpened, Ashheart’s head appeared, amber eyes wide with concern.

    “Riverpaw, are you with us again?”

    Riverpaw sat up. She was lying on her side on the training area floor. She looked around to see Blackpool, Stonepaw and Echopaw staring at her. Next to them sat Deeplake, pale yellow eyes fixed upon Riverpaw.

    “Riverpaw?” Ashheart murmured.

    “I-I” Riverpaw began, and swallowed. “What happened?”

    “You were dueling Stonepaw, then suddenly you collapsed. Your eyes were closed and you were thrashing on the ground. It looked as if you were talking to yourself, but no one could understand what you were saying.”

    Riverpaw blinked, her heart racing. For a moment, she felt embarrassed, then she realized she had something important to say.

    “Deeplake! I need to go to the Tribe of Rushing Water!”

    Deeplake’s eyes widened.

    “How do you know about the Tribe?”

    “Please, my brother is there! The Tribe is in danger!”

    Deeplake opened her mouth, but no sound came out. For a moment, she considered Riverpaw, deep in thought. The five cats were silent for what felt like hours. Then Deeplake spoke.

    “Very well. Come with me Riverpaw. We must speak with Lightstar.”

    “May we come?” Echopaw and Stonepaw asked in unison. Deeplake turned to speak, but Echopaw beat her to it, “please. She’s our friend, Deeplake. If she goes somewhere, we follow.”

    Riverpaw held back a burst of gratitude. She looked at Deeplake, silently begging her to say they could come.

    “Alright.” Deeplake sighed.

    Riverpaw let out a breath of relief and nodded gratefully to her friends. They padded to her side and helped her stand up. To Stonepaw, she murmured,

    “How long was I out?”

    “Long enough for me to run to camp and get Deeplake and Echopaw. We just got back when you woke up.”

    Riverpaw nodded and stared at the ground, contemplating as they walked. Her latest conversation with Forerunner rang in her head. It was hard to focus on any particular moment in the exchange. There were too many things to think about. However, one thing stood out in her mind: her brother was alive, and he needed her help.

chapter 12