Trout/History

This page contains the detailed history for Trout.

## History

*Looking for a shorter overview? Find one here!*

#### Prologue

She, along with Hake, is called into a small cavern by Thresher, who explains that his reign ends that night, but he is confident that he is leaving The Family and The Tide in capable paws. He says that if it were up to him, Sturgeon would be his successor, but that he knows that whomever is chosen will be worthy and lead The Family to greatness.
Thresher asks Sturgeon if she would help the chosen leader if not herself, in which she replies that she would. The four then leave the cave, walking towards the beach. Trout, Hake and Sturgeon look out towards Thresher solemnly as he wades into the ocean to his death.
#### Chapter 2

Trout races after a chicken, calling for assistance from Skua who leaps onto the chicken and swiftly kills it. She congratulates him on the good catch, and he replies that he was only able to catch it due to Trout's well-executed plan, and in response, Trout calls him a goof.
Trout says that they'll eat well tonight, and that it would be enough to share with Hake and Sturgeon.
Skua begins to speak, though trails off and excuses himself, saying that it wasn't his place to comment. Trout encourages him to continue, telling him that he's got her curious. Skua proposes that only the two of them share the meal; Trout echoes this and then responds that they might be able to next time and that there was too much food for just the two of them. Skua jokingly asks her to remind him to hunt a mouse next time, rather than a chicken.
During their walk back to the beach, Trout spots mangoes spotting around the grass below a tree and excitedly picks one up. Skua asks if it were a gift for The Tide, and Trout confirms, mentioning how he loved mangoes. Skua states that Trout spoils The Tide, and Trout proudly states that that's why she is his favourite.
Once inside the caves, Trout requests Skua bring the chicken to Hake and Sturgeon, and that she will join them once she's finished visiting The Tide. Skua complies, bringing it to the aforementioned cats whilst Trout heads towards The Tide's home. She passes Fangtooth, who greets her and states that it was an honour to be guarding The Tide after Trout points out that Sturgeon has her protecting him.
Trout slips into The Tide's cave, sunlight casting down onto her from the ceiling as she calls The Tide over, mentioning that she has a gift for him.
The Tide peeks out from underneath some leaves, and begins eating from the mango as Trout talks to him. Trout asks if he were happy and if he got a lot of gifts that day. After receiving no response, Trout asks if he needs anything, to which she once again gets no response.
After a moment more of watching him eat, she accepts defeat, stating that he appeared very busy and that she would take her leave. As Trout leaves, she tells Fangtooth to keep up the good work. Trout greets Hake and Sturgeon in one of the caves, stating that she was catching them dinner after Sturgeon mentions how it was nice of her to finally join them. Sturgeon acknowledges that Trout's Lionheart, Skua, had dropped it off, and Trout notices that they hadn't eaten it yet.
Sturgeon retorts that they have work to do, though Hake quickly adds on that they were waiting for her to join them as well. Trout begins walking towards the chicken, exclaiming that she was there now and that they should eat. Hake and Sturgeon join her, Sturgeon pointing out that it was small for a chicken. Trout supposes it is, and asks if it were a problem. Sturgeon asks if it was in a flock or alone, though Trout cuts her off and answers that it was alone.
Sturgeon mentions that it is the first chicken they've seen in weeks, and that Trout should have left it be rather than catch it. Trout asks why, and as Sturgeon begins answering, Hake cuts her off, requesting she drop the subject. Sturgeon ignores Hake and continues by saying that if there were only a couple of chickens left on the island, they'll be gone for good soon if they're continuously being hunted. She asks Trout what she thinks they were going to eat in a year, and Trout responds that she doesn't know, but she *does* know what they would be eating that night, so Sturgeon should be grateful.
Hake agrees, saying that Trout was right and thanking her for the dinner. Sturgeon is less impressed, and passive-aggressively thanks Trout for leading The Family to such a promising future. Trout begins to retort, though Hake steps in-between them and attempts to mediate the argument, saying that they should just eat already. Sturgeon gets in a final remark, and agrees with Hake, saying that they should eat whilst they still can.
Trout, having had enough, tells Hake and Sturgeon to enjoy the chicken without her and storms away. Trout passes multiple concerned cats as she heads back to her cave, greeting them and dismissing their concerns. Hake later brings her one of the legs from the chicken, saying that Trout knows how Sturgeon is, trying to find the right words to describe her.
Trout states that she's mean, and Hake attempts to rephrase it in a nicer tone by confirming that while she is quite blunt, it's only because she's worried. Trout says that it's not Sturgeon's job to worry, and Hake agrees, saying that it was Trout's job instead. He continues, saying that despite this, she spends every day out in the hunting grounds. He tells her that she needs to take her role as Queen more seriously; he doesn't blame her for not wanting to focus on problems that arise, but says that The Tide chose her for a reason.
Trout says that it's not like she doesn't want to focus on the problems, just that she doesn't know what to do about them. She points out that it wasn't like they could just stop eating. Hake suggests that they could try cutting back on the amount of food they eat, but that it would be impossible to monitor the Daisys even if they did. Trout says that it would be easier if there weren't so many Daisys, and that they don't respect The Tide nor their laws.
She wonders if she should assign more Enforcers to keep the hunting grounds well protected, but Hake disagrees, saying that cats would starve. He reminds her that the Daisys were Trout's subjects too and she couldn't just forbid them from hunting. He suggests she have a chat with The Tide to see if he has any guidance for her, and Trout promises that she will. Hake continues, saying that Trout needed to keep her Lionheart by her side at all times.
Trout retorts that he can't lecture her about that since Sturgeon had her's guarding The Tide, and Hake points out that while Sturgeon knows how to defend herself, *Trout* doesn't. He tells her to keep her Lionheart close, because she needs his protection. Trout defeatedly agrees.
#### Chapter 3

Hake passes Tusk a bird, saying that it was all hers and that Trout had most likely hunted for him already.
#### Chapter 4

As Trout, Sturgeon and Skua walk on the beach, Sturgeon tells Trout that the birds are getting scarcer every day. Trout says she knows, but is unsure what she can do about it. She points out that it wasn't like she could just bring more prey to the island.
Sturgeon proposes that maybe they could go to the prey instead; if the island couldn't support them anymore, they should leave.
Trout laughs, finding the idea ridiculous. Sturgeon continues, beginning to suggest they swim together before Trout cuts her off, telling her that cats would drown or they'd join Thresher. Trout wonders where they would even go, saying that the only other land around was the island opposite, but it was much smaller and for all they knew, it could be worse off.
Sturgeon states that it's still worth a shot, and that she could lead a small group to the island and back to report their findings, to which Trout exclaims that they'd never make it. Sturgeon elaborates, saying that she'd take five cats with her, and that at least one of them was bound to make it. She ponders whether she should instead take ten, so that someone would make it back.
Trout firmly shuts down her idea, stating that no one would be leaving and that she would not send cats to their deaths. Sturgeon proposes she take volunteers in that case, explaining that there are many cats happy to serve The Tide. Trout tells her off, saying that she'll hear nothing more of the subject. Sturgeon reluctantly complies.
Trout then walks away with Skua, leaving Sturgeon behind on the beach.
Later on, Sturgeon approaches Trout with an idea to clear the stones protecting the freshwater pools from the sea, allowing fish to come and go as they'd please. Trout asks about her idea for their water supply, and Sturgeon explains that it would be the river; they'd build a dam at the base of the river, and rainwater would keep it full.
Sturgeon says that any fish that enter the pools would become acceptable prey; gifts from The Tide. Trout is uncertain whether or not they'd suddenly be allowed to eat sea life. Sturgeon states that she'd get permission from The Tide, pointing out that The Family has served him loyally for many generations and that he cares for their wellbeing. She encourages Trout to speak with him.
#### Chapter 5

Minke gives birth to Trout and Hake with the help of Gull, Sturgeon and Snapper. Thresher approaches them, asking for the results, and Gull breaks the news that Minke had died. Thresher tells her to bring her to the graveyard and begins walking away, though Sturgeon calls on him, making him pause.
Sturgeon asks about Trout and Hake, who were still living, and Thresher reluctantly tells her to bring them along and that they'd need a mother. Sturgeon picks up Trout, while Snapper carries Hake. They head to Kelp, and Thresher explains to her that Minke had died and his kits needed a mother.
Kelp gives him her condolences, saying that she'd be honoured to raise them. Thresher thanks her, though pauses, and after a moment begins explaining that Trout and Hakes would likely be his heirs, and that he couldn't allow them to be raised with Kelp's son. He says that he'll personally find him a Daisy family to take care of him.
Sturgeon picks Kelp's son up as Kelp accepts his conditions, curling around Hake and Trout as she grieves.
#### Chapter 6

Trout sits with The Tide, asking for his opinion on it being okay for them to eat fish from the pools as he eats a mango. The Tide gives her no response, and she begs him to just tell her what to do.
Trout leaves The Tide, approaching Sturgeon gloomily. Sturgeon asks how it went, and Trout hesitantly explains that she isn't sure if he liked the plan. Sturgeon asks what he said, and Trout stumbles over her words, unable to come up with a feasible response. Sturgeon stops her, repeating her previous question.
Trout eventually says that The Tide had told her to ask about it later, and that he needed to think it over. Sturgeon, disbelieving, asks if he'd said exactly that, to which Trout confirms, apologises for the lack of information, and begins leaving. Sturgeon tries to stop her, but she panics, shouting that she'd speak with him later.
She runs into a sun-lit cavern, frustrated, and stares up at the painting of The Tide on one of the walls. She asks why The Tide wouldn't talk to her, saying that she had done everything right and followed all of the rules. She explains that she'd nearly died for him, that someone tried to kill her just because she was picked for leadership, but that it wouldn't have even mattered if she'd died or not because she couldn't even understand him.
Trout asks what else she had to do, beginning to tear up. She wonders if it were a mistake, and if The Tide had meant to pick Sturgeon or Hake instead. She says that if he wants her to resign, she would and that all he needed to do was tell her. Trout asks if The Tide wanted her to join Thresher, before Sturgeon joins her in the cave and asks if she were alright.
Trout tells Sturgeon that she has something to say, trying to find the words to explain her inability to communicate with The Tide. Sturgeon hushes her, saying that the next time she spoke with him, it would be better and that he'd give her his permission. She continues, stating that even if he doesn't, no one but herself could prove that.
Sturgeon asks if Trout understood, and Trout confirms after a moment of silence. Sturgeon asks if she were okay once again, and Trout begins to break down, realising that it was a lie the whole time. She explains that she'd thought something was wrong with her, and that she was such an idiot for not realising sooner.
Sturgeon tells her that she wasn't an idiot, only that it was all she'd ever been told and that wasn't her fault. Trout asks why Sturgeon hadn't told her, and Sturgeon replies that she supposes she wasn't sure how to, and that she didn't want to see Trout getting upset. Trout apologises, wiping away her tears and saying that she'd stop crying.
Trout asks Sturgeon how she found out, and explains that she never really believed in the concept; it was too cruel. She states that Thresher knew her doubts, and told her the truth. Trout mentions that Thresher has always seemed so devout, though trails off before she could continue. He asks what The Tide was in that case — if he was just some kind of crab — and why he didn't die. Sturgeon says that she doesn't know all of the answers, only that The Tide didn't speak.
She explains that Trout must follow Thresher's example and play the part, stating that if she believed, so would the others. She tells her that she couldn't tell anyone the truth — not Skua or even Hake — as if The Family were to find out, the colony would collapse and their ranks would be meaningless. Trout understands, though then realises that it was all on her to make the decisions. She mentions that it was a lot of pressure.
Sturgeon explains that that was why she has advisors, and that she would be there to help her when she came to her with ideas. Trout thanks her, and Sturgeon asks if they should inform The Family of their new hunting grounds. Trout agrees.
Trout sits on top of the entrance to the Tunnels with Hake, Sturgeon, Kelp and Skua. She announces that The Tide has seen their struggles and is allowing them the gift of feeding from the pools in gratitude for their hard work and loyalty. She states that it is thanks to him that they are able to survive these hard times, and that they will be grateful.
She explains that she would be entrusting the project to Sturgeon, and that all cats would follow her lead. Sturgeon states that she will need the help of every able cat, and that moving the stones would not be easy. She expects everyone to do their part, but also that there will be injuries. She states that the reward, however, will be a feast, and that she knows she speaks for everyone when she says that they're starving.
#### Chapter 7

After Tusk points out that the announcement about clearing the stones from the pools to allow for more prey didn't sound as though it included the Daisys with the way Trout had phrased it, Hake says that he'll talk to Trout about it, and see if The Tide would be fine with sharing.
Later on, Sturgeon tells Wrasse that Hake was not only a lot more forgiving than she was, but also a lot more forgiving than Trout would be if she knew what he had done to Hake. She explains that if Trout knew, Wrasse would surely be joining their brothers in the sea that night.
#### Chapter 8

Trout tries some coconut, confirming that she liked it after Hake asked. Trout and Hake perk up when Sturgeon approaches, and Hake asks her if she has ever had coconut before. Sturgeon says that she has, and sits down with them when Hake offers her some. Trout pushes the coconut half towards her.
Sturgeon says that she was there to update them on the pool, and Trout get excited before Sturgeon explains that it wasn't going great, and that they couldn't work in the rain. She continues, saying that the stones were heavier than expected; they managed to move a few stones so some fish could get through, but it probably won't be enough. Trout hums in thought, trying to think of a solution.
Hake suggests they could have the Daisys help, though Skua shuts his idea down, saying that he knew Hake was comfortable with them, but if they'd really want their stench so close to their food supply. After a short conversation with Skua, Hake looks towards Trout and asks if the Daisys would have a right to the pools as well. Skua says that the others wouldn't like it, but Hake supplies that it would only be fair.
Trout hesitates, saying that she'd speak about it with The Tide later on, and that they could work something out. She tells Hake that he can keep feeding Tusk, though, however Hake doesn't want the other Daisys to starve. Kelp tells him that he has a big heart, but that there were thousands of cats on their island and he couldn't save them all; he should focus on the ones he can save, as he'll live happier.
Sturgeon changes the subject, mentioning that a lightning strike had struck a tree but she put it out before the fire could spread. Trout says that that was a relief, and that a fire is the last thing the island needs. Hake adds that a fire could destroy the entire island, and Sturgeon says that they'll have to make sure they're vigilant.
#### Chapter 9

Thresher tells Trout and Hake to keep up with him as they walk along the beach. Trout asks where they were going, and Thresher responds to find Sturgeon, as she's supposed to be watching them. Trout asks why, and Thresher says that Kelp was sick, and that he was the King so couldn't watch them seeing as he had important things to do.
Thresher mentions that Kelp wasn't actually Trout and Hake's mother after Hake asks when they could see her again, and Trout implies for him to elaborate. Thresher explains that their real mother's name was Minke, and that Trout looked a lot like her. He then says that she's dead, and for them to not be sad as it happens.
Thresher tells them to get some rest, and Trout asks if they could watch the stars. The two kittens eventually fall asleep.
Later on, Sturgeon brings Trout and Hake back to Kelp, who licks their heads affectionately and says that she'd missed them and that she was feeling better. She asks if they had fun with Sturgeon, and Hake adds that they'd also hung out with Thresher. Trout happily exclaims that he was the King.
Hake mentions that he told them that Kelp wasn't truly their mother, and that he was sorry and he wouldn't call her that again.
Kelp tells them that they can call her whatever they'd like to, snuggling them into her chest.
#### Chapter 10

Trout walks through the caves, recalling on a previous conversation she had with Sturgeon.
Trout had asked Sturgeon if she was sure about the plan, to which Sturgeon confirmed. Trout said that she was just worried due to what had happened previously, and Sturgeon said that she understands her concern, but she has Skua now and they could always assign her more Lionhearts if she felt unsafe. Trout declined, and said that Skua could protect her, and that she just hopes everyone will be happy.
Trout calls for Krill, interrupting his conversation with Wahoo. She tells him that they'll be having an island meeting that evening, and requests for him to spread the word to everyone — she wants the entire island to be present. She thanks him after he complies.
Trout then greets Skua, asking him if he was ready to go. Skua says he is, and asks whether or not she was going to tell him her plan now, to which she declines and tells him to simply trust in his Queen. Trout and Skua climb up a rocky hill, Trout shouting that they were almost there. Trout surprises him with a bird, saying that she owed him a shared meal.
Skua says that he'd thought she had forgotten about that, and Trout says that of course she hadn't and that he was important to her. She mentions that things had been stressful for her recently, but things were finally starting to make sense. Skua asks if her talk with The Tide went well, and she says that it did, and that he had very good advice; a way for both The Family and the Daisys to benifit.
Skua is confused, wondering why The Tide would want to help the Daisys. Trout tells Skua not to tell anyone, and reveals that she's been using a loophole — the plan didn't come from The Tide completely. Skua asks if she's sure that was the best plan, and she says that she couldn't just let them starve, and that she was their Queen. Skua mentions that Thresher would have, and Trout points out that everyone hated him.
Skua corrects her, saying that not everyone hated him; many also feared him. Trout says she doesn't want to lead like he did, and Skua agrees, saying that he doesn't think it'd suit her. He continues, stating that helping the Daisys was probably the best thing to do, but he's just worried. Trout says that she is too, and that she won't lie and say that she wasn't nervous.
Skua states that he won't leave her side, and that he'd fight off any Daisy — even a whole army of them — if he had to. Trout says that she knows, and that she just needs to run the plan by Hake before the meeting to see what he thinks of it.
Hake exclaims that he thinks it's a great idea, saying that it was good for them and good for the Daisys as well. He mentions that it's going to save so many lives, and that he was proud of Trout. Hake continues, saying that he knows how Trout was a bit of a reluctant Queen, but that she's proving herself to be a good leader and that he can't wait to see Tusk's face when she hears about the plan.
Trout asks him to not tell her just yet, as news like this shoud come from the Queen herself. They just need to make sure the whole island is at the meeting, and requests for Hake to help get the word out.
Later on, Trout sits with The Tide, saying that if nothing else, at least he was cute. Trout asks if he were enjoying the mango, and wonders how long he'd really been in his cave and with The Family. Trout wonders if he were actually immortal, and how much of their history was actually a lie. She continues, pondering that if he could really give blessings and curses, or if he had infinite power and wisdom, but just can't speak.
She says that's okay, and that she'd speak for him. He munches on the mango, and Trout echoes his noises. Sturgeon enters the room, telling her that it was time for the meeting. Sturgeon asks her if she remembers what to say, and Trout says that she does and that she's been rehearsing; she was ready. Trout and Sturgeon exit the caves and sit atop the tunnels.
Trout realises that the Daisys and The Family were sitting so far apart, but Sturgeon reminds her that the change would take time, and that she should make her speech. Trout thanks everyone for attending the meeting, and says that with all of their hard work, the pools were finally stocked with fish and they'll be thriving once more. She says that the pools were a blessing from The Tide himself, and as such, would be for the benefit of The Family only.
She continues, saying that despite this, The Tide is a gracious god, and that for the first time ever, Daisys will have the opportunity to join The Family's ranks.
The Daisys will be required to follow The Tide's law and serve him loyally, and in return, they will receive his blessings. Krill shouts out, asking if The Tide were really allowing this, after what the Daisys had done. Trout hesitates, but Sturgeon tells him off for her, saying that not all Daisys shared the guilt in that crime.
Wahoo asks if they were just supposed to forget what happened in that case and let it happen again, but Sturgeon says that that was enough and that this was the will of The Tide; any grievances they have could be discussed with her later. She prompts for Trout to continue.
Trout requests that any Daisy who would like to join The Family stay on the beach, and those that would prefer to stay living in the forest may leave. Trout is surprised at how many cats leave, but continues and says that those who stayed must bring The Tide a gift to receive his blessings, and that he likes mangoes.
Later, Trout exclaims to Sturgeon that The Family hated it; that they spoke out against The Tide — their Queen. Sturgeon reassures her, saying for her to give them some time to come around and that it was only Krill and Wahoo who complained, and she knew how they were. Trout continues, saying that the Daisys didn't even care, as more than half of them just left.
Sturgeon says that it was a big decision for them, and that she was sure many of them would come back once they've thought it over. Trout asks what there was to think about.
She asks Hake if the tortoiseshell up at the front was his friend, and why she left. Hake says that he doesn't know, and that she might've been confused. Trout encourages him to explain it to her, to see what was going on in the brains of the Daisys. Hake leaves, and Trout says that the meeting was a disaster. Sturgeon tells him to not be dramatic, whilst Trout asks her why they didn't like it.
Sturgeon says that she doesn't know, but that they'll figure it out and everything would be fine. She tells Trout to just have patience, licking the top of her head.
#### Chapter 11

Hake tells Tusk that a Daisy tried to kill Trout once, when Thresher died. He explains that they'd known them for a long time, and that they thought they were their friend until Trout was chosen as Queen. Then, they showed their true motive, and attempted to murder her by slashing the back of her neck.
#### Chapter 13

Trout crouches down, leaping onto a dead mouse as Thresher walks her through the steps slowly. Thresher congratulates her for catching it, telling her that she was a natural hunter, and that if she kept practising, her stalking will improve and in a few weeks she might even be able to catch a living mouse.
After Hake refuses to practise hunting with Trout and Thresher, Thresher encourages Trout away, telling her that they'll continue practising.
Thresher approaches Hake and his Daisy friend, telling him to sit with Trout. He then growls at the Daisy kitten, telling him to get lost. Hake asks him why he did that, and that the Daisy was really nice. Thresher says that no Daisy was nice, that they're demons who torment the Gods and slaughter their own. Trout and Hake get scared, crouching low to the floor with their ears flat.
Thresher apologises, realising that they were too young to be hearing about that, but tells them to steer clear of Daisys from now on and to not leave the beach on their own. Auklet approaches, telling Thresher that he knows what Sturgeon has been up to. Thresher growls, worrying Trout and Hake once again.
#### Chapter 14

Trout paints a mural of three coconut trees alongside Hake in Tusk's nursery den. Hake thanks her for helping him decorate, and Trout says she always likes having an excuse to paint something. She then states that she's not sure she's ever painted coconut trees before.
Hake says that he thinks they turned out pretty nice, and that he hopes Tusk likes it. Trout teases Hake about his relationship with Tusk, asking him, jokingly, if he were in love. Hake scroffs, telling her that she sounded like Kelp. He clarifies that she was just his friend, though Trout continues and says that they were friends *for now*. Hake tells her to be quiet.
Trout asks him if Tusk's kits were going to call him 'Dad', though Hake counters her by asking if she and Skua were a couple. Trout gets flustered and waves one of her paws, calling the counter fair and saying that she'd drop it.
Hake begins to ask her to help him clean himself before Tusk showed up, but cuts off when Tusk walks into the cave. He explains to her that it was her nursery den, and says that he thought the trees might make it feel more homely. Trout says that it looks pretty cool, and thanks Hake for his efforts.
Hake begins leaving and says that he'll be right back, explaining that they could decide what sort of nest she wanted when he got back.
Tusk walks towards the mural, going to touch it with one of her paws before Trout tells her to be careful, saying that it wasn't dry yet. Tusk says that it's really nice, and also smells nice. Trout explains that they used roses and coconut milk to paint it. She says that the other murals were typically painted using wild berries or mouse blood, but the berries that they use were poisonous, and Hake didn't think it would be safe to have around kittens.
Tusk calls the idea smart, and says that Hake was full of good ideas. Trout hesitates, pointing out that she didn't seem to be very happy in The Family. Tusk says that she doesn't mean to seem ungrateful, just that it was overwhelming. She explains that she knew what to expect when she lived as a Daisy, but in The Family, she isn't sure what she's going to do.
Trout tells her that she could always leave if she wanted to, if it was too much stress to live with The Family, but Tusk says she can't. She explains that she had promised Hake she'd give it a try, and she was no liar.
Tusk then realises that she probably shouldn't be dumping her promblems onto the Queen. Trout says that it's fine, and that it's part of her job to listen to the concerns of her subjects.
Tusk mentions that she's one of those now, but Trout corrects her by saying that she's always been, and that whilst past monarchs might have forgotten that, The Tide never has. Tusk scoffs, saying that she sure felt like a subject while she was starving in the woods. Trout is unsure how to respond, but eventually says that it's been difficult for her to assure care for everyone.
Tusk cuts her off, saying that with all due respect, she doesn't want to hear an overly polite excuse and that Daisy life had always been rough, and nothing The Family has done has ever made it easier. Trout says that she'd say Hake has made Tusk's life considerably easier, if she'd prefer her to be more blunt. Tusk says that she does prefer the bluntness, then adds that while Hake is kind, he's only added other problems.
Trout begins to ask what she means, but Hake announces that he's back, and with Skua as well. Trout greets Skua, while Hake shows Tusk the different nest options and says that they could mix them as well if she'd like. Skua asks if Trout was ready to get going, and Trout says that she was.
As they walk away, Trout asks Skua what his impression on Tusk was. He says that she seemed a bit unmannered, but alright. Trout mentions that she seems kind of sad, but Skua tells her not to worry about it and that she's probably just adjusting. Trout doesn't seem convinced, but accepts the answer. Trout then hears Krill yelling at another cat nearby, calling them stupid as they apologise.
Trout and Skua change their path and approach Krill, Wahoo and a black-and-white former-Daisy. Trout demands to know what Krill and Wahoo are doing and what's going on, and Krill explains that the cat had eaten three fish, which was more than anyone else's share. The cat tries to say that he didn't know, but Krill shouts at him to shut up and that of course he knew, as Hake had told him the rules.
Trout tells Krill to stop yelling at him, as it was obvious he's scared. Krill accuses her of taking sides, confused, but Trout tells him she's not and that he needs to calm down. She tells the Daisy to stand up, and asks if he has a name. He says that he picked Quail. Trout then explains to him that they have very strict rations — everyone can only have two meals per day, and that he was responsible for his own hunting unless he worked something out with another cat.
Quail says that he understands, and apologises. Krill then shouts that he was already told that before, and Trout explains that now he's being told again, as he'd clearly forgotten. She mentions that he'd been in The Family for only two days, and that Krill should give him a break. Krill shouts back that it wasn't fair, but Trout shuts him up and scolds him, telling him to be quiet and that he'd made his point.
Trout dismisses Quail, telling him not to eat more than his share from now on. He understands, thanking her and leaving. After he's gone, Krill asaks her if she won't even cut his meals for tomorrow, and that someone should lose their meal to keep everything balanced. Annoyed, Trout thanks him for volunteering, stating that The Tide appreciates him missing his meal tonight and that his contribution was truly invaluable as she walks away.
Trout and Skua continue through the tunnels, and Skua looks towards Trout with a soft smile. Trout sighs, sitting down and asking him what it was. Skua says that Krill would never let her forget what she'd just did, as he still has grudges from when they were kits, and that he'll just complain louder next time.
Trout groans, saying that he brought it on himself and that he needs to be nice. Skua points out that it was Krill they were talking about, and that he doesn't think he knows what 'nice' means; he definitely won't learn it on his own, either. Trout says that she'll talk with him after he calms down to see if she can get him to agree to a truce with the Daisys. Skua wishes her luck.
Skua suggests they go to the river to get her washed, as the paint had spread around her fur. He jokingly adds that they should avoid Kelp until they get there. Later on, Trout comes up from below the river's water and wades back over to Skua who was resting on the shore. Skua asks if she had fun, and Trout shakes the water off her fur and onto him, exclaiming happily that she was clean. Skua congratulates her.
Trout asks if he was hungry, and that they should go hunting before it got too late. Skua agrees, and asks if she wasn't just avoiding Krill. Trout states that she wasn't, but adds on that he was probably still upset, so she'll wait a bit longer before she talks to him again. Skua sarcastically says that her decision was very brave and inspiring. Trout hushes him, so he changes the topic and begins to say something, before a frail, tabby Daisy recruit nearby cuts him off with a hacking cough.
Trout asks him if that was one of their Daisys, and Skua responds that he wasn't sure. Trout flattens her ears, looking towards the Daisy in concern, before turning to Gull and asking if she could go and check on the wellbeing of all of The Family's new recruits, to make sure none of them has anything contagious. Gull complies, stating that she'll separate any cat who was sick into their own den. Trout thanks her.
Skua says that that was a good call, and Trout hopes that there's nothing serious going around. She turns to Skua, beginning to say that she thought mouse would be a good option for their meal, before Veta approaches and asks if she could speak with Trout. Trout asks her what it was, and Veta asks where the Daisys would be sleeping that night. She states that she knows Tusk has her own cave, but that the rest of the Daisys were sleeping whereever they wanted last night, and that their smell was everywhere.
She asks if they could assign them their own space until it was gone. Trout reassures her that their smell would go away sooner if they shared the same dens as everyone else, and that Gull was making sure none of them were sick, so Veta has nothing to worry about.
Trout says that if it really bothers her, she could pick out a personal cave for herself if she'd like. Veta thanks her, happier now. Skua and Trout then begin to walk away, and Skua asks if they would now go hunting. Trout says they would, but a cat asks if they could have a word with her, as they had a concern. Three others approach, saying that they also have concerns that they'd like to discuss. Trout nervously allows them to voice their concerns with her.
Later in the evening, Trout lies on her back, groaning. She begins to say that had she known how much everyone would complain, but trails off. Sturgeon continues for her, asking if she would have let them all starve in the woods. Trout says that she'd never, it was just that there were so many complaints; Krill was the worst of them all, but the rest were just as exhausting. She rolls over, groaning that she never even got to hunt in the end.
Sturgeon asks what happened with Krill, and Trout responds that he was yelling at a Daisy so she took away his meal. Sturgeon is dumbfounded, scolding her and saying that she shouldn't be punishing her subject. Trout shoots back that he wouldn't stop being annoying, but Sturgeon states that that wasn't an excuse.
Trout points out that Sturgeon yells at cats all the time, so she couldn't tell her off, but Sturgeon cuts her off, suprised at the implication that Trout had yelled at Krill.
Trout defends herself, saying that it was Krill, and that yelling was his language. She asks why Sturgeon cared so much, as she knows he's had it coming for a while. Sturgeon states that she doubts he was out of line, but Trout interrupts and confirms that he was. Sturgeon says that she was the Queen, and needed to be fair; she should be firm with her subjects without abusing her power.
Trout is shocked by the accusation, shouting that she *was* fair, and that Sturgeon wasn't there; Krill had driven the Daisy to tears and wouldn't stop arguing with her. Sturgeon states that she hadn't meant to upset her, putting her paw on Trout's head, but that she thinks Trout needs to be careful as there was a lot of tension in The Family. She says that it would be best if Trout remained neutral: She should be welcoming to the Daisys, but not publicly side with them.
Trout moves away from Sturgeon, asking if she thinks she should have just let Krill yell at the Daisy. Sturgeon says that she doesn't, but that she just doesn't know as she wasn't there and can't say what Trout should have done. She thinks that Trout should still attempt to make ammends with Krill, and Trout says that she was planning to speak with him again, but that he's *Krill*.
Trout asks if Sturgeon would bring him a meal from her share, and Sturgeon states that she should do it. Trout points out that Krill likes Sturgeon better, and that she doesn't think he really wants to see her yet. Sturgeon scolds her, mentioning that that gesture should come from the Queen, but Trout lies down, saying that she has been bothered by cats all day and that she really doesn't want to end her evening with another conversation with Krill.
Sturgeon sighs, giving in and calling Trout stubborn. Trout thanks her as she walks away.
Later that night, Trout and Skua walk through the tunnels together. Skua says that Trout looks down, and asks if she was still thinking about Krill, to which she replies she isn't. She says that a lot of the complaints that day were about the Daisys, and asks Skua for his honest opinion on if he thinks it was a mistake to invite them into The Family.
Skua hesitates, but states that he wouldn't have suggested the idea to The Tide if he were King, that it was strange having them around and that he can't say that them being there put him at ease. But he reassures her that it was probably the right thing to do. Trout says that it was right, but it felt like a mistake.
She worries that maybe she should have given the idea more thought, and that there might've been another option that she overlooked, but Skua stops her, saying that she was giving it *too* much thought now. The act was already done, and it wasn't like Trout could banish them all back to the woods. Trout says she knows, but she's just worried that she's made everyone miserable.
Laughter from Tusk's cave interrupts her, and she looks in to see Mollymawk, Tusk and Hake joking with each other. Trout grins, and walks towards them happily, joining in on their conversation.
Later on, Sturgeon gives Krill a fish and explains to him that it was a gift from Trout. She adds that Trout chose to forgive his outburst from earlier and is taking on his punishment herself, and that he should be sure to thank her the next time he sees her.
#### Chapter 15

Kelp explains to Tusk that while her kitting was difficult, her kits turned out alright: Trout was a good leader, and Hake a good follower, and they were both kind-hearted and smart. She smiles, reminicing that she'd got lucky.
#### Chapter 16

Wahoo asks what Krill was going to do about Trout, and if he was planning to kill her himself. He adds that he'd never get the chance to, becuase of Skua, and Krill says that they'll figure it out. After a short argument between the two, Wahoo attempts to convince Krill to not attempt murdering Trout, saying that it was treason and that they've known her her whole life.
Once Wahoo leaves Krill alone, Sturgeon climbs down the cliffside to join him and warns him to leave Trout alone. Krill retorts that he won't, and Sturgeon tells him that she'll relay everything he said to Trout, and that he'll be executed before dusk. Krill tells her that he wasn't the only cat with thoughts to kill Trout, and that if he doesn't do it, another cat will. Krill explains to Sturgeon that he'd be willing to do anything it takes to see her take on the role of Queen.
Later on, Sturgeon asks Fangtooth if she's seen Trout anywhere. Fangtooth explains that she's out hunting with Skua and Kelp, and that she'll go tell Trout that Sturgeon's looking for her. After Fangtooth leaves, Tansy sits with Sturgeon and talks to her, mentioning that Trout didn't seem like the kind of cat to love Daisys after a short conversation.
Gull later interrupts their conversation, and says that she was looking for Trout, but that her bones hurt so she'll trust Sturgeon to pass on her message. She explains that the Daisys all seem healthy, just underfed, and that a few are showing signs of illness, but not anything that won't go away with rest. Sturgeon thanks her.
After dismissing Tansy, Gull says that the cats of The Family weren't comfortable sleeping with the same cats who tried to assassinate Trout, and Sturgeon explains to her that that was only one cat, and they've been long dead. Gull requests for her to still let Trout know how others feel.
Sturgeon enters Tusk's cave and asks Kelp if she knows where Trout is. Kelp explains that she was up in her hidey spot with Skua, and that she's been spending a lot of time with him lately.
*More Coming Soon*