Bone Shred

**Bone Shred** is a broad shouldered black tom with three white stripes on his sides, pale yellow eyes. Wears a fox skull on his head.

## Kills

A list of cats that Bone Shred has directly or indirectly killed.

* Talon Strike
* Whitedapple
* Wetpaw
* Iceslide

## Appearances and Mentions

### Beyond the River

#### Allegiances

Bone Shred is listed under Allegiance Update 4, Allegiance Update 5, Allegiance Update 6, Allegiance Update 7, and Allegiance Update 8 as leader of Bone Shred's Gang.

#### Prologue

Bone Shred is curled up in an old chair in the abandoned shed. Talon Strike brings him a mouse as he requested, and Bone Shred grows angry and dissatisfied with the scrawny mouse. The other cats comment that they shouldn't blame him because prey is scarce, and complain that they're all starving.

Bone Shred snarls at them to be quiet, stating that all they can do is fight for survival, as more cats means less prey. Talon Strike says he isn't sure if it's true, and Bone Shred accuses him of saying he's wrong. Talon Strike quickly explains that he heard about a large group of cats living in a forest where there must be plenty of prey. When Talon Strike says he doesn't know where this forest is, Bone Shred kills him.

Crimson Ice asks Bone Shred what they're going to do about this forest, and Poisonedsap comments that he would be a fool to pass it up. Bone Shred faces her and comments that being his sister seems to make her think she can speak to him differently. He reminds her that he cares about her as much as the rest of the fleabags, and won't hesitate to kill her if she betrays him.

Bone Shred claims that they will find this forest and make the cats who live there leave, and if they refuse, kill every last one of them.

#### Chapter 14

When Poisonedsap reaches the abandoned twoleg nest with Iceslide, he asks if she has this place all to herself. She explains that she lives here with her brother and his group of cats, adding that she thinks he'd like to meet Iceslide. She explains that they needed to move here because there was so little prey in the last town they lived in.

When they're inside, Bone Shred snarls Poisoned Sap's name, making Iceslide jump. He leaps down from a couch and approaches them. Iceslide lets out a startled gasp, his fur standing on end. This is unlike any cat he has seen before. What alarms Iceslide is the accessory we wears: A skull rested over his head, blocking his face from view. Judging by the look of it, he guesses that it's from a fox, or perhaps even another larger cat. The empty eye sockets of the skull conceal Bone Shred's eyes in shadow, so all can be seen are the dark black holes.

She asks "Yes?" and dips her head. He stops in front of her and stares her down, snarling at her and asking why she's brought this cat here, swinging his head to Iceslide and asking who he is. Iceslide stammers uneasily.

As Bone Shred watches Poisoned Sap, tail lashing, she introduces Iceslide and explains that he lives with a large group of cats in a forest. Bone Shred's tail slowly stops moving, and he raises his head slowly, saying "I see". He moves his gaze to Iceslide and says it's a pleasure to meet him, his voice smooth and calm. Iceslide stammers "Yes" and shuffles his paws, trying to avoid looking at the skull, his fur still ruffled.

Bone Shred notices his unease and chuckles, guessing it's the skull. He explains that it's meant to frighten enemies, to keep his cats safe. He waves his tail to the other cats in the room, amused as he comments that it seems to work, given Iceslide's reaction to him.

Iceslide slowly calms, apologizing and saying he's never seen a cat like him. Bone Shred says the same, tipping his head and saying it's interesting that he's a forest cat. Iceslide asks if they all live together and recalls the authority that Bone Shred seems to hold, guessing he's the leader.

Bone Shred says that's right and explains that he gives these cats shelter, food and protection. He raises his head as he says that his skull and name send fear through any cat who dares threaten them, and they try to live in peace. Iceslide thinks it's nice and a bit like a clan in a way. He dips his head respectfully, saying it seems like a good system.

Poisoned Sap agrees that it is, adding that Bone Shred is a fine leader. He dips his head to his sister and praises her for bringing Iceslide here, purring and saying he's glad to have met such a cat. He turns back to Iceslide and says he hopes they get along fine. Iceslide politely responds that he's sure they will.

Bone Shred apologizes for not being able to offer him any prey, dropping his gaze and flicking his tail toward a small pile under an old wooden table. He says that he needs to feed his own cats before any guests, and they're hungry enough. Many of them will die in leaf-bare.

Iceslide feels sorry for them and suggests they become kittypets. They take offense to this, and Bone Shred's tail lashes angrily. He spits that nothing is more shameful than surrendering your life to a twoleg. He adds that they're cruel, horrible creatures, and they would rather die than live among their kind. Iceslide is sad as he says he understands that. He looks at Bone Shred and says there's lots of prey in his territory, suggesting he catch some and bring it here.

Bone Shred sits down and studies Iceslide thoughtfully, asking if he'd really do that. Iceslide says of course, saying he couldn't let any cat starve and wants to help. Bone Shred hesitates, saying they don't want to cause him any trouble. Iceslide says there's no trouble at all and stares at him, urging him to let him help, adding that no cat should have to live like this.

Bone Shred is quiet for a moment, and the cats look at him hopefully. He gives a nod and says very well, thanking Iceslide. He purrs that he's very generous and has his deepest gratitude. Iceslide promises to bring some tomorrow night.

Bone Shred smoothly says that it sounds great and they look forward to his return. Iceslide dips his head and turns away.

#### Chapter 15

When Iceslide is hunting for Bone Shred's rogues, he notes that it's been a day since he saved Poisoned Sap and she introduced him to her brother, a cat unlike any other he'd met. He's a powerful looking cat.

When he enters the abandoned twolegplace with the prey, Bone Shred is sitting in the shadows near the wall. He greets Iceslide and says "That's not all for us, is it?". Iceslide dips his head and tells him it is, apologizing for not being able to catch more, while Bone Shred steps forward and sniffs the squirrel.

Glitter's kits run over, and Glitter tells them not to be rude, as it might not be for them. The kits look up at Bone Shred and Iceslide hopefully, and Iceslide tells them it's all theirs.

When Iceslide tries to give the squirrel to a sick elder, Bone Shred goes to Iceslide's side and pulls the squirrel away from the elder, who watches it for a moment, then closes his eyes. Bone Shred says that the elder is right that he won't make it through the winter. Iceslide is sympathetic, saying there's still time, but Bone Shred firmly says that prey is to be used on the cats who are young and strong. There's no point in feeding a cat who's just going to die anyway. He tells Iceslide to let him be, as he won't last much longer. Bone Shred steps forward and rests his paw on the elder's flank, telling him to rest, and his suffering will end soon. The elder lets out a raspy sigh.

Bone Shred gives the squirrel to Oil Tail and Glass Face. When Iceslide is speaking to Howl and Dandelion, Bone Shred calls him and tells him that he gave the last mouse to Crimson Ice and Poisoned Sap, dipping his head and adding that they're very grateful for this.

Iceslide dips his head and says he couldn't turn away a cat in need. He's tired and says he should go, but Bone Shred comments that he must be very tired from the journey here, and insists that he rest for a while first.

Iceslide settles on his stomach, and Bone Shred crouches beside him. It's silent for a while, then he comments that there must be a lot of prey where he comes from, as he has enough to share. Iceslide says yes, and the forest is full of prey, glad to have the silence broken. Bone Shred looks at his paws and says that he's very fortunate, as they struggle to find food every day, and it's hard living here.

Iceslide sympathizes and says they deserve a better home. Bone Shred agrees and looks at him thoughtfully before suggesting he take them to this forest of his, as it would save him the trouble of hunting for them, and they'd hate to be a burden. Iceslide hesitates, noting that as much as he wants to help these cats, it's a ridiculous idea. There are too many to join RiverClan, and Shimmerstar wouldn't be pleased if he brought her a group of scrawny twolegplace cats, and there's no way they can join any clans without Iceslide's secret being revealed.

Iceslide reluctantly tells him that he can't do that, as he shouldn't even be here, and his clan would be furious. He adds that there just isn't enough room for them all. Bone Shred is quiet for a moment, then says he understands, supposing they can manage fine here.

Dandelion's wail startles Iceslide, and he swings his head around. She and Howl are crouched over a dead tom named Rocky. Bone Shred quietly tells Iceslide that Rocky was old and sick anyway, like the elder he tried to give the squirrel to. He sits up and raises his voice, telling Crimson Ice and Dark Hawk to take the body outside.

Iceslide sadly thinks that he has to do something. He hesitantly tells Bone Shred that he thinks there's a patch of woodland just outside RiverClan territory. Though it's not very big, he thinks they could settle there, and there would be much more prey.

Bone Shred twitches his tail thoughtfully, and thinks that would be perfect. He stands and raises his voice as he tells everyone that Iceslide has offered to take them to a new home by the forest. As the cats question them, Bone Shred looks to Iceslide, who promises them that it's safe, sheltered, and they'll have plenty of food.

Bone Shred suggests they leave at dawn and looks at Iceslide, asking what he thinks. Iceslide hesitates, noting that he should be getting back to camp, but the group needs someone to lead them to the woodland.

Iceslide agrees and looks around at the cats, telling them they'll leave at dawn. He's proud that he's going to help these cats, and they won't have to live like this any longer. They'll be much better off by the forest.

#### Chapter 16

Iceslide wakes up to Bone Shred prodding him and telling him it's dawn, asking if they shall leave now. Iceslide remembers that last night he told Bone Shred's cats he'd take them to the woodland outside of RiverClan territory. He says of course and gets up. He and Bone Shred pad over to the others, and the leader scans the group, asking if everyone is here.

Iceslide notices the sick elder and asks Bone Shred about him, and the leader pauses and glances back at him, reminding Iceslide that he's going to die, and he'd never make the journey anyway. They set off.

Bone Shred and Iceslide lead the group through twolegplace along the sidewalk. Bone Shred asks how far it is, and Iceslide tells him it's not too far, but it'll take time, as they'll have to go around the clan territories.

They're almost at the outskirts of twolegplace when Juicy, Violet, and Parrot round a corner. Bone Shred hisses and arches his back, and several others do the same. The kittypets look startled, and Iceslide looks at Bone Shred anxiously, telling him it's okay and that he knows them. Parrot gulps and lowers himself to the ground, afraid as he points out Bone Shred's skull.

Iceslide promises his friends that there's nothing to be afraid of and looks at Bone Shred, whose fur is slowly flattening. Iceslide introduces him and explaining that he's taking he and his cats to a new place to live.

Bone Shred rumbles a greeting and says they're just passing through. When Parrot asks why Iceslide is hanging out with such a shady group, several of the cats take offense, hissing and lashing their tails. Bone Shred looks over his shoulder and growls a warning, and they quiet.

Iceslide insists that the rogues are fine and explains that Bone Shred wears the skull to frighten off enemies, adding that he won't harm them, and neither will any of the others. Bone Shred quietly tells Iceslide that he's sorry to interrupt, but they need to keep moving. Iceslide agrees.

When Violet asks if she can travel with them for a bit, Bone Shred flicks his ear and says nothing. Iceslide steps forward and says of course. As they walk, Violet worries that Iceslide is making a mistake, telling him "just look at the one with the skull.".

At sunhigh, they reach the area outside of RiverClan territory. When Glitter tells her kits she hopes it isn't much further, Bone Shred looks at Iceslide, who quickly assures him that it's not far now. When they reach a clearing in the woodland, Bone Shred is at the head of the group, studying their surroundings.

Crimson Ice purrs and turns to Bone Shred, telling him it's perfect. Bone Shred agrees, looking around for a moment longer before turning to Iceslide. He says they'll make themselves a fine home here, and they can't thank him enough. Iceslide dips his head.

When Oil Tail asks Iceslide to show them forest hunting techniques, Bone Shred nods and says it's a good idea, and Poisoned Sap and Shredded Ivy can go with them. When Shredded Ivy pads over, Bone Shred tells Iceslide he doesn't believe he's met his daughter and introduces her to him.

When they return from hunting, Bone Shred watches them deposit the prey in the middle of the clearing, starting a pile. Bone Shred sounds pleased as he says there really is a lot of prey here, and it's perfect. Iceslide doesn't want to be rude, but knows he has to get back to camp. He apologizes to Bone Shred in advance before telling him that he needs to get going, as his clanmates will be upset.

Bone Shred says of course and dips his head, thanking him for his help. He turns and looks at his cats as they settle in the clearing and start building nests of moss, adding that he's done them a great favor.

#### Chapter 17

Iceslide notes that three days have passed since he brought Bone Shred's rogues to the woodland. He snuck out yesterday to see how they were settling in and had been glad to see them making a home for themselves.

When Gladestar mentions chasing off a few rogues, Iceslide wonders if they could be Bone Shred's. He decides to visit and talk to them about it.

Poisoned Sap and Shadow Snarl lead Iceslide into the camp. Bone Shred is laying on a large log where he's made his den. He seems to sense them approaching and turns his head toward them. When he sees Iceslide, he sits up and greets him.

Iceslide returns the greeting and dips his head politely as Bone Shred jumps down from the log and sits down in front of it. Iceslide sits down and tells him that he wanted to visit and make sure they're alright. Bone Shred rumbles that they're excellent, swishing his tail over the snowy ground as he adds that he's given them the home they've always hoped for. He pauses as though not knowing what to say, then adds that Iceslide was just here a few days ago.

Iceslide wants to talk for a while before he goes accusing them of trespassing, but it looks like he has no choice but to dive right into it. He tells Bone Shred that the leader of WindClan mentioned chasing off rogues. Bone Shred tilts his head and guesses they're the moorland cats, and Iceslide says yes.

Bone Shred recalls that Blinding Sun and Glass Face ran into some while they were hunting on the moor. He says nothing more, staring at Iceslide. He politely tells Bone Shred that they can't trespass on clan territory, explaining that each clan has their own territory to hunt on. Bone Shred sounds surprised as he asks if they never hunt on the moor.

Iceslide says no and explains that they stick to their own territories, that way the food is equally divided, and no cat goes hungry. He points out that they have plenty of prey here in the woods, and Bone Shred pauses before agreeing that they have plenty. Iceslide says that they don't need to take prey from WindClan or any other clan, they can all live happily respecting one another.

Iceslide proceeds to answer Poisoned Sap and Shadow Snarl's questions, explaining how patrols work, adding that every cat sleeps at night, but they have a couple guards at the camp entrances. Iceslide insists there's enough prey to go around.

Bone Shred is quiet for a moment, and Iceslide begins to wonder if he offended him. But Bone Shred lets out a purr and apologizes, as they don't know the ways of the clans, but they'll keep this in mind. Iceslide is relieved that they understand, and there won't be any more problems. He says he'd better get back to camp and dips his head, wishing him good hunting. Bone Shred thanks him and returns the words.

Iceslide feels Bone Shred's gaze on him as he turns away. He's glad there aren't any hard feelings between them.

#### Chapter 21

When Iceslide reaches Bone Shred's camp, he's surprised at how many cats there are, wondering if there were that many before. Bone Shred purrs and greets Iceslide from his log, saying it's good of him to visit. He doesn't jump down from the log this time. Iceslide tells him that rogues have been attacking the clans lately, and cats have died.

Bone Shred tilts his head and asks if that's so, saying he's sorry to hear that. He looks downward and murmurs that death is very cruel indeed. Iceslide asks if he knows anything about it. Dark Hawk angrily asks if he's accusing them, and many others growl. Iceslide quickly says of course not, telling Bone Shred that he just figured that they're rogues too, and they might know who they are or where they come from.

Bone Shred is quiet for a moment, the tip of his tail twitching. He calmly says that they've seen a few of the rogues themselves, and they're a threat indeed. He says he wishes he could help, but doesn't know any more than he does. Iceslide couldn't be more disappointed. He'd been hoping to learn something useful that could be used against the rogues. But it seems Bone Shred's cats are in the same position as the clans. He says he understands and he's sorry he's had trouble with them too.

Realizing he has a lot of cats, Iceslide hopefully asks if they'd be willing to help them, if Bone Shred joined forces with the clans, they'd be unstoppable, and could drive the rogues out. Iceslide is excited.

Bone Shred sounds pleased with the idea and tells Iceslide he's very smart. He proposes sending a pawful of his cats to each clan to help with hunting and protection, about 10 per clan. Iceslide lifts his tail in the air, saying it's great, and they could fight the rogues off together.

Bone Shred agrees with a purr, his tail waving back and forth slowly, saying they could save the forest and reveal who's in charge. it's the least he could do after all Iceslide's done for them. He says he just needs to know where each camp is. Iceslide hesitates, pointing out he could just wait for a patrol by the border. Bone Shred reminds him that it's dangerous with the rogues about, and he wouldn't want to risk the clans any more losses. They'll go straight to the camps themselves

Iceslide considers this and realizes that he's right. He does something that he'll regret for the rest of his life, that no other warrior would have done lightly. He reveals the locations of the camps. Bone Shred nods slowly and says he'll try to remember and thanks Iceslide, saying they'll leave for the clans tomorrow morning. Iceslide uncertainly points out that he should tell Shimmerstar they're coming.

Bone Shred says that the clans have had a lot of bad news lately and could use a nice surprise. Iceslide couldn't agree more. He thanks him and says they won't forget this. Bone Shred replies that he has no doubt about that.

Iceslide hesitates and says he'd better get going, as he wants to visit the kittypets and warn them. He begins padding away when Bone Shred calls him, and he looks over his shoulder. Bone Shred says that his loyalty should stay with him. Iceslide blinks, puzzled and wondering what's wrong with being friends with the kittypets. For a moment, he isn't sure what to say. Then he responds that his loyalty is to all of his friends.

When Bone Shred doesn't respond, Iceslide leaves. He's glad that they have a way to fight against the rogues and can't help but feel quite proud of himself, as the clans will be saved because of him.

#### Chapter 22

The rogues attack the WindClan camp early in the morning.

When Gladestar reveals that she's seen the leader, Iceslide stares at her curiously, wondering who it is. When Gladestar reveals that the leader wears a skull on his head, cold dread shoots through Iceslide's veins like ice, numbing him from ears to tail. He's stunned and staggers backwards. Sunripple turns to him and asks if he's alright, but Iceslide hardly hears. He looks around the bloody clearing at the wounded cats, his heart pounding and legs trembling as he realizes that he caused this.

Not long after they get back to camp, Iceslide goes straight to twolegplace. He has to warn his friends about Bone Shred and his rogues. He doesn't know if any are still lingering around here, and the thought of something happening to Violet fills him with dread.

All day his mind has been racing with a million thoughts and feelings. He's stunned by the fact that Bone Shred's cats have been terrorizing the clans, and also by his own stupidity. He led a group of bloodthirsty rogues straight to the clans and told them everything they needed to know in order to attack. He wonders what he was thinking and how he could have fallen for it.

#### Chapter 23

Iceslide is on his way to Bone Shred's camp to confront Bone Shred and get him to let Truffle and Dime go.

In the RiverClan camp, Iceslide hears a wail of agony that rises from behind him, and he spins, his heart skipping a beat as panic seizes his body. Bone Shred is close to the middle of the clearing, grasping Whitedapple's shoulders as she struggles to push him up away from her. His teeth are fastened deep into her throat, blood oozing down her neck and through her fur. Her wail breaks into a bubbled choke as she collapses, and Bone Shred releases her, stepping back and looking down in satisfaction.

Iceslide screeches "No!" and shoulders his way through the crowd, lunging for Bone Shred, but he seems completely prepared for his attack. He turns toward him and raises his paws to meet him, shoving him to the snowy ground beside Whitedapple's body. Before Iceslide can get up, Bone Shred pins him down and presses a paw to his throat, his unsheathed claws pricking his skin.

Bone Shred smoothly asks what's wrong as he stares down at him, saying he thought they were friends. Iceslide becomes hardly aware of the battle going on around him, right now his entire focus is on Bone Shred and the hatred and despair flooding through his body. He furiously snarls that he's a murderer and asks how dare he, as he helped him and saved his cats from starvation. Bone Shred calmly watches him, his chin and skull stained with blood, and says that he's very grateful for his help and must thank him. He breaks into a purr as he gazes around the camp at the raging battle and and adds that none of this could have happened if it weren't for him. Iceslide lets out a cry of mingled anger and anguish, pouring his emotions into his words as he says that he tricked him and lied to him.

Bone Shred rests his gaze on him and says that he never lied to him. His cats were starving, and they needed new territory. It was all truth. He pauses and says he's just a fool. They wanted the forest, and he led them straight to it, gave them all the information they needed to know in order to plan their attacks. He says with a purr of amusement that it was surprisingly easy, as Iceslide never even asked what they planned to do when they got here. Iceslide stares up at him, trembling with anger and guilt as he calls him a heartless mangy fleabag.

Bone Shred chuckles that Iceslide is the stupidest cat he's ever met, and it's a miracle he's still alive. He leans close to Iceslide's face so that he's forced to stare into the sockets of his skull, and says this is only the beginning. One by one, they'll kill them all until the forest is theirs, and it's all thanks to him. He raises his head and studies him.

Iceslide glares up at him, his heart pounding as he thinks he's going to kill him. He tenses and waits for him to lunge down and sink his teeth into his throat. But Bone Shred smiles and loosens his grip on Iceslide, saying that he'll let him live, as it would be wrong to kill him before he could see the glory that he helped them achieve. He'll be proud of the part he played in it. He steps back and yowls to his cats "That's enough! Let's go!"

The rogues begin retreating, and Iceslide watches as Bone Shred leads his cats across the stepping stones until they disappear over a snowy slope.

When Creekleap questions Iceslide, he realizes in dread that he overheard some of his confrontation with Bone Shred. Iceslide wishes that Bone Shred had killed him, anything to get out of this nightmare. After Iceslide reveals the truth, Troutspots says that Iceslide helped that stinking rogue get to the forest, referring to Bone Shred.

#### Chapter 24

Iceslide tells Blizzardfur that two of his friends are being held prisoner by Bone Shred and his rogues, and he can't rescue them alone, so he needs the clan's help.

When Iceslide and Sunripple are confronted by Shredded Ivy and Shadow Snarl, Iceslide thinks quickly and says that he'd like to speak to Bone Shred. Shredded Ivy is amused, asking if he thinks Bone Shred wants to speak to him. Iceslide lies that he considers Bone Shred a friend and wants to help him take over the forest.

When the rogues hesitate, Sunripple tells Iceslide they should go if Bone Shred doesn't want two more cats. Shredded Ivy agrees to take them to the camp. Iceslide is relieved that the first part is over. Now they just need to get Bone Shred to believe them.

They near Bone Shred's log den, and Shredded Ivy raises her voice, saying he has visitors. Iceslide watches as Bone Shred slowly steps out from the shadows, a low growl rumbling in his throat. He says "Iceslide, is it?" and leaps onto his log, his tail flicking in amusement as he comments that Iceslide is an even bigger fool than he thought, showing his face here.

The rogues pad closer to them, circling them and watching through narrowed eyes. Iceslide tries to ignore them as he looks up at Bone Shred and tells him he's been thinking about what he said in the battle yesterday, and he realizes now that he was wrong. He's proud of the part he's played in his plan. He lies that he'd like to continue working with him, as he could use someone on the inside.

Bone Shred silently studies him, and Iceslide looks into the dark sockets of the skull. Bone Shred moves his gaze to Sunripple, asking who that is. Iceslide replies that he's a clanmate of his who he convinced to come with him. Sunripple dips his head and tells Bone Shred that they're very powerful cats, unlike the clans, and he'd be honored to serve him.

Iceslide thinks they're doing great, satisfied at their lies. Bone Shred remains silent, and he grows wary. Eventually, he speaks smoothly and says very well, their friendship can continue, if he'll do him a favor. Iceslide uneasily asks what. Bone Shred rests his gaze on Sunripple and tells Iceslide to kill him.

Iceslide freezes, and as the rogues yowl and snicker excitedly, Sunripple shoots Iceslide a questioning look. Iceslide looks back at him anxiously. Iceslide stammers that Sunripple wants to join them, and Bone Shred replies that he wants Bone Shred to prove his loyalty, studying him and telling him to kill Sunripple now.

When Iceslide hesitates, Bone Shred snaps "Kill him!". Iceslide looks up at him desperately and says there's no reason to kill him. Bone Shred orders Shredded Ivy to do it, lashing his tail.

After Sunripple is killed and Crimson Ice pins Iceslide, Bone Shred shakes his head and says nice try, adding that it's a shame too, as he would have liked to continue working with him.  Iceslide cries how dare he, as now Sunripple is dead because of him. Anger pulses through him as he struggles under Crimson Ice, saying that he has his friends from twolegplace and to let them go.

Bone Shred studies him and asks why he didn't just say so. He leaps down from the log and flicks his tail at Crimson Ice, telling him to let Iceslide go. When he does, Iceslide staggers to his paws, glaring at Bone Shred as he tells him to follow him.

Iceslide follows Bone Shred across the clearing. He knows this is crazy, and he'll never let them go. He's playing at something. He sees Crimson Ice and Poisoned Sap following them and knows this isn't good, something is very wrong.

Bone Shred leads them to a rocky den, nodding to the guards, and they move aside, watching as their leader pads in. Iceslide, Crimson Ice, and Poisoned Sap follow him in. Iceslide starts toward Truffle and Dime, but Bone Shred raises his tail and growls. Poisoned Sap and Crimson Ice move past them and pin the twolegplace cats. Iceslide glares at Bone Shred, shakily asking what he's doing and to let them go.

Bone Shred purrs smoothly that he will once he gives him more information about the clans. Iceslide bristles and says never. Bone Shred asks him to tell him something he can use for his next attack. Iceslide snarls that he's told him more than enough. Bone Shred nods for Crimson Ice to kill Dime, and when he does, Iceslide shrieks "No!" and starts toward him, but Bone Shred pushes him down and presses a powerful paw to his back. His heart throbs with grief. Bone Shred growls for him to tell him, or Truffle dies too.

He pulls away from Bone Shred blurts out that the clans meet at fourtrees every full moon, knowing he's doing something terrible, but desperate to save his friend. He tells Bone Shred they won't be expecting an attack.

Bone Shred looks at him, a slow purr rumbling in his throat. He says it sounds perfect. He looks at Poisoned Sap, and Iceslide is relieved, waiting for him to tell her to let him go. But Bone Shred tells her to kill him, and Iceslide freezes as she kills Truffle. After she pins Iceslide, she sneers down at him and asks Bone Shred if she shall kill him too.

Bone Shred looks down at Iceslide and says to keep him prisoner, as he may still be useful to them. He looks at Poisoned Sap and Crimson Ice and tells them it's time. Poisoned Sap tells Iceslide that they're attacking the RiverClan camp again, and their work is far from over.

Iceslide screeches "No!" and struggles under her. Bone Shred looks down at him and purrs, thanking him for his help. He turns away, and Poisoned Sap and Crimson Ice follow. Iceslide starts after him, but Dark Hawk and Shadow Snarl leap in his way.

#### Chapter 25

As Iceslide lays in the stone den, he listens as Bone Shred leads his rogues away. As he wonders what will happen next, he guesses that he just waits here until Bone Shred has him killed, noting that in the meantime, he's killing more of his clanmates.

When Iceslide asks why Howl and Dandelion are helping him, Howl says that Iceslide saved them from starvation, and Bone Shred is wrong to do this to him after he brought them here. Dandelion's eyes narrow as she adds that Bone Shred is a cruel heartless cat, spitting that they have all they need here, and yet he still wants more. He wants others to suffer. Iceslide is confused as he asks why they follow him if they think that.

Howl explains that Bone Shred was the toughest cat in twolegplace. Many cats were living alone on the streets, starving and unable to care for themselves. Bone Shred gathered them and promised shelter, protection, and food in exchange for absolute loyalty. And he gave them everything they wanted, but many of them weren't prepared for the price they had to pay. Dandelion sadly says that Bone Shred encouraged violence and enjoyed picking fights with other cats. Some cats were already like him, but it didn't take long for others to adapt. Eventually nearly all of them shared his thirst for blood. Howl tells Iceslide that it won't be long until he and his friends are all dead. He's sorry, but it's a fact that Bone Shred won't back down, and his cats will follow him anywhere.

When Iceslide urges them to join RiverClan, Howl tells him that he and Dandelion are unable to hunt on their own, and it's why they rely on Bone Shred.

When Iceslide nears the camp, he hears Bone Shred yowl "Retreat!", and his heart skips with alarm. He hides behind a snowbank while the rogues leave the camp. The last cat to leave is Bone Shred. He pauses and looks over his shoulder at the camp. Iceslide tenses when he sees that his skull is splashed with blood. After a moment, Bone Shred gives a satisfied nod and follows his rogues into the distance. Iceslide shivers as he wonders whose blood it is.

#### Chapter 27

Winterlight hopefully asks Otterpelt if there's anything she can do for Shimmerstar, as she's not herself. Otterpelt hesitates and looks across the clearing at her leader. Shimmerstar has lowered her head and turned to her den, slowly padding inside. Frostedcloud watches her for a moment, then turns away. Otterpelt murmurs that Shimmerstar has lost Salmonstripe, Lilynose, and Creekleap all in a short amount of time, and she feels helpless against Bone Shred. She bears wounds that they cannot see, and no medicine cat can heal those.

 When Shimmerstar mentions the gathering to Iceslide, he freezes, his blood turning to ice as he remembers what he told Bone Shred. The rogue leader had forced him to give more information in exchange for Truffle and Dime's lives, however he had them killed anyway.

He quickly returns to her, and she looks up at him sharply in question, alarmed at his sudden panic. He knows she'll be furious, but has to tell her. He can't let more cats die. He explains how he and Sunripple went to Bone Shred's camp, and he told the leader about the gatherings. By the time he finishes, Shimmerstar is staring at him with a horrified look on her face. He guiltily tells her how sorry he is, unable to meet her gaze. Shimmerstar says that she'll call a meeting and tell the clan, noting that at least they'll be prepared for this attack.

The clan is noted to have been shocked and alarmed at Shimmerstar's news. To Iceslide's surprise, she lied about his visit to Bone Shred's camp and instead told them that he'd heard the rogues mention an attack at fourtrees during the attack days earlier, and due to shock, he hadn't remembered until now.

 At the gathering, Swanpool wonders if the rogues changed their mind about attacking. Iceslide prays that she's right. He shifts his paws in the snow nervously as the last leader, Birchstar, speaks. He wonders if they could really have changed their minds, or forgot what he said.

 They're about to end the gathering when Bone Shred asks if they're late, and every cat freezes as he leaps onto the great rock behind the leaders. They spin in shock, and Stormstar lets out a snarl, lunging for him, but Bone Shred is a bigger cat. He swings a hard blow at him and knocks him clear off the great rock. When the rogues arrive, there are more cats than Iceslide remembered. He anxiously wonders if Bone Shred recruited more in this short time

 Every cat gasps and yowls anxiously as the other leaders stand at the edges of the rock and face Bone Shred, bristling and growling. Whitestar spits that he's not welcome here. Bone Shred ignores her and raises his voice, saying that he'll give them a chance to leave the forest and never return. He turns to the leaders, waiting patiently for an answer. Shimmerstar furiously snarls "never!", her tail lashing madly as she says this is their home.

 Bone Shred dips his head and says very well, if that's their choice. He raises his voice in a furious yowl and tells his cats to attack and not stop until every last one of them is dead.

Iceslide notices Howl and Dandelion standing on the edge of the clearing, looking hesitant and frightened. He understands why. They don't want to kill anyone, but if they fight against Bone Shred, they'll be killed by his cats. They don't know what to do.

 The next thing Iceslide knows, Bone Shred is beside him, pinning Stormstar and snarling at him. He sneers at him to retreat now, or more cats will die. Stormstar's eyes flare with anger, but he yowls for his clan to retreat.

 When all the clans flee, Bone Shred stands on the great rock, the clearing below surrounded by rogues. He yowls that this place is theirs now, and soon every bit of the forest will be.

#### Chapter 28

Wetpaw's cry for help jerks Iceslide awake. He silently notes that it sounds like an apprentice. The other warriors are awakening and hurrying out of the den, and Iceslide quickly follows.

Horror blazes through him when he steps into the clearing. Bone Shred stands in the middle of the camp, pinning Wetpaw on his stomach. The apprentice's eyes are frantic and full of terror as Bone Shred digs his claws into his shoulders. Behind him are the rest of the rogues. Heartsong shrieks Wetpaw's name when she sees him and says to let him go.

Shimmerstar and Frostedcloud cautiously step to the front of the RiverClan cats to face him. Shimmerstar's voice cracks as she asks Bone Shred why he's done this, glaring at him and telling him to let Wetpaw go and get out of her camp. Bone Shred's tail swishes back and forth as he fixes his gaze on her, commenting coolly that's no way to welcome a visitor. Frostedcloud growls that he's not welcome here, his eyes narrowed as he adds that this is their camp and their forest, and not a pawstep of it belongs to him. Bone Shred says nothing, looking amused.

Shimmerstar takes a step forward, her eyes filled with despair. She begs him to let them live in peace, and every cat seems shocked and saddened by her display of weakness. She asks if that's not what they all want. If he stays on his land, they'll stay on theirs. She tells him to end this madness.

Bone Shred sounds amused as he says there is no madness, and Wetpaw whimpers as he digs his claws deeper into his back. He says that he's simply taking what belongs to him, and she won't cooperate. He pauses, studying her and asking if she's a cat of honor. Shimmerstar narrows her eyes as he goes on, saying very well, let's end this. His head lowers as he locks his empty gaze on her and challenges her to a fight, just the two of them. Whoever wins will get what they want. Shimmerstar narrows her eyes and asks if by winning, he means the stronger cat. Bone Shred rumbles smoothly no, whoever is left standing. He says that they'll fight to the death, and if she wins, he'll leave the forest for good. He sounds amused as he says this, as if he doesn't believe there's any chance he can be beaten.

Shimmerstar looks down and murmurs as she asks what happens if he wins. Bone Shred says "If I win?", his voice growing hard with menace as he says if he wins, he'll make sure every last cat in this forest from the oldest elder to the newborn kit is dead at his paws.

The cats look at each other anxiously, and as Shimmerstar stares back at him silently, Iceslide realizes with a rush of shock that she's considering it. He silently notes that she can't beat him. Frostedcloud steps to her side, his eyes wide as he starts to say her name, but she cuts him off and accepts, meeting Bone Shred's gaze steadily.

The cats around them gasp, and Bone Shred dips his head and purrs, saying that he looks forward to it, and it'll be tomorrow morning. She's to meet him by the river. Shimmerstar says very well and looks at Wetpaw, telling Bone Shred to let him go now.

The rogue looks down at Wetpaw as he struggles under him, whimpering as blood trickles from his shoulders. Then, Bone Shred lunges down and sinks his teeth into his neck. Wetpaw shrieks and struggles desperately until Bone Shred lets go, and Wetpaw's head thumps to the ground, his blood pooling into the snow. Heartsong shrieks "No!" and tries to get to her kit, but Cherryberry and Mudslip block her way. She begins wailing heavily.

Bone Shred backs off of Wetpaw's body and nods to him, telling them to consider it an example of what will happen when he wins. With a nod to his cats, he turns away and leaves the camp.

After he leaves, Swanpool wails to Shimmerstar that she can't, as that monster will kill her. The thought of Shimmerstar in her weak and defeated state facing a powerful, merciless cat like Bone Shred terrifies Iceslide.

Iceslide asks her to let him fight Bone Shred in her place. He says that he will fight Bone Shred with all the strength he has, and if he dies, then it will be the most selfless thing he's ever done for the clan. After some hesitation, Shimmerstar agrees.

#### Chapter 29

Iceslide is sitting alone in the darkness of the camp, watching as the sky fades to dawn. He silently notes that it's almost time and draws in a deep breath. When the sun rises, he goes to fight Bone Shred, for his clan and for the fate of the forest. He can't deny that he's afraid, but not of his own death. The lives of every cat in the forest depend on this fight. If he dies, the clans die with him.

At the camp, Frostedcloud asks Iceslide if he's sure he can do this, looking uncertain as he adds that Bone Shred is a strong cat. Iceslide sits up and quietly says he knows, but he's fighting for more than he is, and that will give him strength.

Iceslide looks up as they pad through the snow and sees that Bone Shred and his cats haven't arrived yet. They stop beside the river, and Iceslide becomes aware of Shimmerstar at his side. She tells him to go onto the river, and he blinks at her in surprise, asking "what". She tells him that he has an advantage over Bone Shred. He's a RiverClan cat and can swim. Iceslide immediately understands. If he can get Bone Shred to fall through the ice, he'll drown.

Movement in the distance catches Iceslide's attention, and he breaks out of his thoughts, looking up to see Bone Shred approaching, followed by a large group of rogues. He tilts his head and calls in amusement to Iceslide, asking if Shimmerstar was too afraid to fight him.

Iceslide meets his gaze steadily and says no, and neither is he. Bone Shred studies him for a moment, then twitches his tail in satisfaction, saying very well and that he's looked forward to the opportunity to tear him apart. He lowers his head as he watches him, asking if he'll come up there to face him. Iceslide feels strangely confident and ready as he says they'll fight here on the river, unless he's afraid. He knows Bone Shred will never back down from a comment like that.

Bone Shred studies him for a moment, his tail lashing with offense. He growls that he doesn't feel fear and pads onto the ice to face him.

Behind Bone Shred, his rogues are gathered, their eyes lit with menace and excitement. They're ready to see Iceslide die. Poisoned Sap and Shredded Ivy watch him through narrowed eyes. Bone Shred growls "let's begin" and watches him steadily, a growl rumbling in his throat as he crouches, his muscles flexing. Iceslide silently notes that the time is now, and everything starts and ends now. He narrows his eyes and crouches, feeling determination flood through his veins. He silently wills StarClan to help him win this for the clans.

With an angry snarl, Bone Shred launches himself at Iceslide, and in that moment, the world around Iceslide vanishes, and all that exists is the fury between he and Bone Shred, and everything that he's fighting for.

They start out by fighting over the ice. Then Bone Shred pushes Iceslide through the ice and holds him underwater, sneering at him about being able to swim. Iceslide struggles desperately and wills StarClan to help him, as he's going to drown. He goes limp, and when Bone Shred loosens his grip, he thrusts backwards out of the water, and he and Bone Shred continue fighting furiously.

When Iceslide knocks off Bone Shred's skull, he lets out a shaky gasp when he sees his face. He can't imagine what could have caused a cat to look so hideous. Iceslide takes advantage of Bone Shred's shock and attacks him. As Iceslide grows weaker, he manages to push Bone Shred backwards into the hole in the ice.

#### Chapter 30

When Bluerain thanks StarClan that it's almost green-leaf, Crowmask nods agreement not far from her, saying that between Bone Shred's rogues and the snow, it's a miracle they survived.

Maplefur silently thanks StarClan that's over. As he buries his frog, he notes that Bone Shred's rogues had terrorized the clans for moons, and many cats had died, including Maplefur's parents, Baconstripe and Redblaze. He misses them terribly.

He notes that things had begun to look hopeless when a RiverClan warrior named Iceslide fought Bone Shred for the fate of the forest. He defeated him, but it cost him his own life. At the gathering following the battle, Shimmerstar spoke highly of Iceslide, and every cat honors his bravery and sacrifice. The rogues had retreated back to twolegplace, and the forest is safe once more.

After attacking Poisoned Sap, Crowmask confirms that she's one of Bone Shred's rogues, he'd recognize that scent anywhere he's so sick of it.

Stormstar growls at her to identify herself at once, adding that she reeks of Bone Shred's rogues. She introduces herself and says she was one of his rogues. Crowmask immediately snarls that she told them, and to send her away. Stormstar snaps at him to be quiet, and he reluctantly falls silent. Stormstar looks at her and tells her in that case to get off their territory.

Poisoned Sap pleads with him to listen, lowering herself to the ground and saying Bone Shred was her brother. He forced her to join, help him attack the clans, and do terrible things. She shivers and says she never wanted any part in it. Maplefur feels his heart sink with sympathy for her. He silently notes that she's never been able to live a life of her own. He can't imagine living like that, under the complete control of another cat.

When Stormstar agrees to let Poisoned Sap join ShadowClan, she silently notes that it worked, and Bone Shred was right that clan cats are fools.

### Rainheart's Love

#### Chapter 1

When Rainpaw acts very jumpy, he admits to Poppypaw that he's a little scared. Some of Bone Shred's rogues are still around, and he's afraid they'll be attacked. Poppypaw promises they'll be fine, as there are six of them, and no rogue would dare try to attack. She adds that if they did, she'd protect him.

#### Chapter 3

During Stormstar's vigil, Depthwater mentions that Stormstar led them bravely through the battles against Bone Shred's rogues.

#### Chapter 4

Rainheart looks toward the elders den and sees his parents laying outside the den together. Blackkit and Brownkit sit in front of them as Carrottail tells them a story. He's saying that he was out on patrol with Crowmask, Rosebreeze, and Cliffshade. Then out of nowhere came the rogues, even Bone Shred himself.

Blackkit gasps and asks what he did. Brownkit lets out a playful growl as he says that Carrottail ripped him to shreds, didn't he? Carrottail says "Oh, no" and shakes his head. Bluerain watches him, her eyes warm with amusement as he goes on to say that they were outnumbered. They fought as hard as they could, but they were doomed. Just when they thought they were done for, Depthstar, who he notes was Depthwater then, arrived. He came with his own patrol, and together they fought off the rogues.

### Starfaith's Fate

#### Chapter 1

It's noted that several moons ago, a horrible group of rogues led by a cat named Bone Shred terrorized the clans. One of them broke into the nursery and killed Dreamwhisper. It's also noted that in a battle against Bone Shred's rogues at a gathering, Weaselnose was killed.

#### Chapter 3

Starpaw notes that Howlstorm and Dandeliontail were formally rogues living under Bone Shred's leadership.

### Shadows of Blood

#### Chapter 4

While confronting Poisonedsap, Maplefur reminds her that she was a member of her brother's gang, the cats who tormented the clans. He goes on to say that her brother was killed, and she begged for mercy. She told ShadowClan that her brother forced her to attack them.

When Poisonedsap attacks him, he realizes that she's never a good cat, and is just like her brother, a cruel, worthless rogue. She snarls that the clans took everything from her when they killed her brother and her friends.

## Quotes

*"You seem to think that being my sister gives you the right to speak to me differently, Poisoned Sap. Know that I care for you just the same as the rest of these fleabags, and I won't hesitate to kill you if you betray me."*

-Bone Shred to Poisonedsap in *Beyond the River*, prologue

*"It's the skull, isn't it? It's meant to frighten enemies, to keep my cats safe. It seems to work, given your reaction to me."*

-Bone Shred to Iceslide in *Beyond the River*, chapter 14

*"I give these cats shelter, food, and protection. My skull and name send fear through any cat who dares threaten them. We try to live in peace."*

-Bone Shred to Iceslide in *Beyond the River*, chapter 14

*"Well done bringing him here, Poisoned Sap. I'm glad to have met such a cat. I hope we get along fine."*

-Bone Shred to Iceslide in *Beyond the River*, chapter 14

*"There's nothing more shameful than surrendering your life to a twoleg! They're cruel, horrible creatures! We would rather die than live among their kind."*

-Bone Shred to Iceslide when he suggests they become kittypets in *Beyond the River*, chapter 14

*"Prey is to be used on the cats who are young and strong. There is no point in feeding a cat who's just going to die anyway. Let him be, he won't last much longer. Rest now. Your suffering will end soon."*

-Bone Shred to Iceslide and the dying elder in *Beyond the River*, chapter 15

*"Perhaps you can take us to this forest of yours? It would save you the trouble of hunting for us. We'd hate to be a burden."*

-Bone Shred to Iceslide in *Beyond the River*, chapter 15

*"Is that so? I'm sorry to hear that. Death is very cruel, indeed."*

-Bone Shred to Iceslide when he tells him about the rogue attacks in *Beyond the River*, chapter 21

*"Yes! You're very smart, Iceslide. Suppose I sent a pawful of my cats to each clan to help with hunting and protection? Say, ten per clan?"*

-Bone Shred to Iceslide when he suggests they join forces with the clans in *Beyond the River*, chapter 21

*"We could save the forest and reveal who's in charge. After all, it's the least we could do after all you've done for us."*

-Bone Shred to Iceslide in *Beyond the River*, chapter 21

*"The clans have had a lot of bad news lately. I think they could use a nice surprise."*

-Bone Shred to Iceslide in *Beyond the River*, chapter 21

*"Your loyalty should stay with me."*

-Bone Shred to Iceslide in *Beyond the River*, chapter 21

*"I never lied to you, Iceslide. My cats were starving, and we needed new territory. It was all truth. You're just a fool. We wanted the forest, and you led us straight to it, gave us all the information we needed to properly plan our attacks. It was surprisingly easy. You never even asked what we planned to do when we got here."*

-Bone Shred to Iceslide in *Beyond the River*, chapter 23

*"And you're the stupidest cat I've ever met. It's a miracle you're still alive. This is only the beginning, Iceslide. One by one, we will kill them all, until the forest is ours. And it's all thanks to you."*

-Bone Shred to Iceslide in *Beyond the River*, chapter 23

*"I'll let you live, my friend. It would be wrong to kill you before you could see the glory that you helped us achieve. You'll be proud of the part you played in it."*

 -Bone Shred to Iceslide in *Beyond the River*, chapter 23

*"I'll give you a chance! Leave this forest and never return."*

 -Bone Shred to the leaders in *Beyond the River*, chapter 27

*"Attack! Don't stop until every last one of them is dead!"*

 -Bone Shred to his rogues in *Beyond the River*, chapter 27

*"This place is ours now! And soon, every bit of this forest will be!"*

 -Bone Shred when he wins the battle at fourtrees in *Beyond the River*, chapter 27

*"Very well, let's end this. I challenge you to a fight. Just the two of us. Whoever wins will get what they want."*

 -Bone Shred to Shimmerstar in *Beyond the River*, chapter 28

*"We will fight to the death. If you win, my cats will leave the forest for good."*

 -Bone Shred to Shimmerstar in *Beyond the River*, chapter 28

*"If I win? If I win, I'll make sure that every last cat in this forest from the oldest elder to the newborn kit is dead at my paws."*

 -Bone Shred to Shimmerstar in *Beyond the River*, chapter 28

## Character Development and Origins

Bone Shred was created as a villain OC years and years ago, but I never did anything with him. When I started planning *Beyond the River*, I needed an antagonist and decided to use him.

He originally had no family, but while thinking about *Beyond the River*, I knew I needed to include some of Poisonedsap's backstory. In *Shadows of Blood,* I mention that her brother was the leader of a group of rogues who tormented the clans. Bone Shred quickly fit the part.

In an early description, he is described as a long legged black tom with white stripes on his sides like rib cages, amber eyes, and wears a jaw-less fox skull on his head.

## Gallery

Bone Shred designIceslide fighting Bone ShredBone Shred chapter header for Beyond the RiverScritch designBone Shred on the cover of Poisonedsap's Rise