Shimmerstar

**Shimmerstar** is a dappled silver she-cat with pale blue-green eyes.

#### Allegiances

Shimmerstar is listed under Allegiances, Allegiance Update 1, Allegiance Update 2, Allegiance Update 3, Allegiance Update 4, Allegiance Update 5, Allegiance Update 6, Allegiance Update 7, Allegiance Update 8, and Final Allegiances as leader of RiverClan.

#### Chapter 1

Though unnamed, Shimmerstar is holding the apprentice ceremony for Icepaw, Blizzardpaw, and Winterpaw. She is heard apprenticing Icepaw to Frozenripple.

#### Chapter 2

When Iceslide is giving Truffle a fake apprentice ceremony, he imagines that he is Shimmerstar. When Iceslide realizes that it's sundown, he notes that last time he spent this much time away from the clan, Shimmerstar scorned him for being lazy. Iceslide disagrees with her.

#### Chapter 3

Shimmerstar and Salmonstripe are laying together beside the tree stump. She is laying against him while he grooms her. Frostedcloud pads over and asks if he can take out an extra patrol because prey is running low. She doesn't respond, and when he addresses her again, she quickly gives him permission.

As Frostedcloud leaves, Salmonstripe asks if she's alright, and Shimmerstar admits that she's worried about Otterpelt's omen, and something must be done. Salmonstripe comforts her, saying that RiverClan will be safe since she's their leader. She purrs and nuzzles him, saying she doesn't know what she'd do without him.

Iceslide looks away from them and sees his opportunity to sneak out of camp. When he returns, he finds Shimmerstar holding a clan meeting. Maplesky reassures the clan about the prophecy. Afterwards, Shimmerstar speaks with Maplesky and Otterpelt privately, praising him. Otterpelt is against lying to the clan, but Shimmerstar believes that whatever awaits them, they must face it without fear, and lying was justified.

#### Chapter 4

Iceslide enters the camp, relieved that no cat spotted him. But he walks right into Shimmerstar. She asks where he's been, and he quickly lies that he was hunting. She comments that she doesn't remember Frostedcloud putting him on a patrol, and she doesn't see any prey with him. Iceslide says he went on his own, to which she remarks "as usual", and he says he buried it by the clearing and can go get it. He immediately regrets this, as he hasn't really caught anything.

Shimmerstar is unimpressed and says that it's unacceptable for him to be away from camp all day and return empty pawed. She orders him to go fishing. Iceslide is tired from his walk to twolegplace and protests, but Shimmerstar insists he go. She decides she'd better send another warrior with him to make sure he does it. Lilynose quickly volunteers, and she nods thankfully. Shimmerstar tells Iceslide that this is his last chance, and he nervously wonders what she means by that. He reluctantly agrees. Shimmerstar tells Lilynose that she expects they'll return by nightfall, and asks her to make sure that Iceslide catches something. She turns away.

When they reach the river, Iceslide longs to rest, but notes that if he doesn't bring back one fish, Shimmerstar will be sure to claw his ear off. Lilynose decides to catch all the fish for him and lie to Shimmerstar.

When they return to camp, Shimmerstar is speaking to Frostedcloud outside her den. When she sees Iceslide and Lilynose, she says something to the deputy before padding over. She praises them and asks how many Iceslide caught. Lilynose lies and says that they each caught two. Shimmerstar approves and says they both deserve to rest now. She turns away as Iceslide dips his head.

#### Chapter 5

Lilynose and Creekleap are play fighting. Shimmerstar calls them and they break apart as she walks over, her eyes stern but warm as she asks if they're warriors or kits.

Salmonstripe pads over and purrs that their kits are the best warriors in the clan. Shimmerstar says that as leader, she can't favor any warriors, but admits that if she had to choose, it would be Lilynose, Creekleap, and Salmonstripe. Lilynose and Creekleap purr at her while Salmonstripe presses his muzzle into her fur.

#### Chapter 6

It is the night of a gathering. Shimmerstar leads her clan to fourtrees and leaps onto the great rock with the other leaders. Whitestar dips her head to her while Birchstar begins speaking to her.

Shimmerstar speaks after Birchstar. She says that RiverClan is very well, and they have many young cats on their way to becoming warriors. She announces the new apprentices: Newtpaw, Warmpaw, and Duckpaw. She also announces the birth of Petalfin's kits: Darkkit, Willowkit, and Mintkit, before concluding that it is all RiverClan has to share. She steps back and dips her head as Stormstar steps forward to speak. Stormstar thanks her before beginning.

When all the leaders have spoken and Gladestar asks the others if they have any more news to share, Shimmerstar and the other leaders shake their heads, and the gathering ends.

#### Chapter 7

When Frostedcloud catches Iceslide in twolegplace, he says he can explain it all to Shimmerstar when they get back to camp.

On the way back, Iceslide is fretting over what will happen to him. He wonders if Shimmerstar will drive him out, then considers the possibility that she will understand, but concludes that of course she won't because of stupid clan rules.

Frostedcloud leads him to Shimmerstar's den and calls for her. She pads out of her den, followed by Salmonstripe, who nods to her before padding away. She asks Frostedcloud and Iceslide what's going on, and Frostedcloud tells her that she caught Iceslide hanging out with kittypets in twolegplace.

She stares at Iceslide and asks if it's true. He says yes and that he sees no wrong in it. Shimmerstar snarls at him about not acting like a warrior, and says that this kind of behavior won't be tolerated in her clan. She revokes Iceslide's warrior name and orders him to repeat his training under Frozenripple until he has proved himself worthy of his warrior name.

Icepaw is shocked and furious, and Shimmerstar snaps at him, suggesting he get some sleep, as he'll have training in the morning. She leaps down from the stump and goes into her den.

#### Chapter 8

When Icepaw is frustrated about having to redo his apprenticeship, Frozenripple says that Shimmerstar ordered him to retrain him, and that's what he's going to do. Icepaw suggests he lie to her about it, but Frozenripple says he doesn't lie to his leader.

When Salmonstripe returns to camp from the hunting patrol, he pads away from the others to bump heads with Shimmerstar, and they purr loudly. Lilynose passes them and purrs a greeting before going into the warriors den.

When the apprentices remind Icepaw that he has to sleep in the apprentices den, he remembers that Shimmerstar only let him sleep in the warriors den last night because he didn't have a nest there yet.

#### Chapter 9

Shimmerstar makes Iceslide a warrior again, noting that he has proven himself worthy of his name again. She leaps down from the tree stump and rests her chin on his head, quietly telling him that she hopes he's learned his lesson. She tells him that he is a warrior of RiverClan, and not to forget what that means. Iceslide agrees quietly and licks her shoulder as customary, though he's sad and frustrated.

Iceslide later notes that Heartsong, Heronleg, and Fintail had been made warriors just before he had. During the naming ceremony, Shimmerstar praised Heronleg for his outstanding hunting abilities, but warns him not to let his talents go to his head. Though he boasts often, Shimmerstar seems sure that he will mature in time.

When Iceslide considers going to twolegplace, he decides that he can't risk it, or Shimmerstar might make him an apprentice again.

When Iceslide finds Sunripple meeting with Dreamwhisper, Sunripple is surprised that he promises not to tell Shimmerstar about them.

#### Chapter 10

After Otterpelt begs Iceslide to stay in RiverClan territory, he's thinking about how weird it was. He decides that it's probably just something that Shimmerstar or Frostedcloud said, or even just the wild imagination of a medicine cat.

#### Chapter 11

Iceslide looks around the camp and sees many couples. Shimmerstar and Salmonstripe are laying together outside the leader's den, watching the clan contently. Iceslide notes that the cats who managed to find love in RiverClan are lucky.

#### Chapter 12

There are a lot of cats in the camp. It's midday, and many are eating together or deep in conversation. Shimmerstar and Salmonstripe are speaking together and purring. Seeing all the couples in the camp makes Iceslide feel more lonely and wish he were with Violet.

When Iceslide tells Lilynose he's going to twolegplace, she points out that Shimmerstar will be upset when she finds out. Iceslide asks if she's going to tell her, thinking that he might have been stupid to think Lilynose would lie to the clan leader, who also happens to be her own mother. Lilynose decides that she'd never tell on him.

When Lilynose yells at Iceslide after seeing him with Violet, he is anxious to change her mind, knowing she'll tell Shimmerstar when they get back to camp.

Iceslide returns to camp and rests Lilynose's body in the center of the clearing. Shimmerstar shrieks her name from where she is sitting with Salmonstripe, and they both run to their daughter. She lets out a wail of grief and crouches, pressing her nose into Lilynose's fur. Salmonstripe presses against Shimmerstar, his eyes lit with grief.

After a moment, Shimmerstar stands and swallows, looking at Iceslide, and he can tell that she's struggling to look strong in front of her clan. She asks him how it happened. Iceslide tells her she was hit by a monster.

Shimmerstar sighs and licks Lilynose's forehead, whispering and asking what she'll do without her. Creekleap shifts closer to his mother, and she pulls him close. Maplesky and Otterpelt sit near them, waiting to prepare the body for the vigil.

#### Chapter 13

Shimmerstar and Salmonstripe are still recovering from the loss of their daughter. As leader, Shimmerstar has to remain strong in front of her clan, and often does a good job of hiding her grief. But sometimes Iceslide sees her laying by her den, staring at the cats in the clearing with a numb look on her face, because a cat is missing, one of the most important cats in her life. Her own kit. When it becomes too much to bear, Salmonstripe gently guides her into her den, and they talk for a while. They also spend more time with Creekleap, and Iceslide can see the desperation in her eyes whenever she looks at her son, afraid of losing him too.

While talking with Blizzardfur, Iceslide notes that he expects that Shimmerstar would have driven him out of the clan immediately if she knew the details of Lilynose's death.

Shimmerstar leaps onto the rock and calls a meeting, and the clan slowly gathers. Frozenripple and Petalfin settle close together, looking up at her. When Iceslide sees Newtpaw, Warmpaw, and Duckpaw, he guesses that Shimmerstar is holding their warrior ceremony now.

Winterlight looks up at Shimmerstar brightly as she wonders if she'll ever get an apprentice. Ravenfeather's attention is fixed on Shimmerstar.

She looks down on her clan and begins speaking, saying that despite the arrival of leaf-bare, the clan is thriving. She notes that Swanpool and Frostedcloud have three fine kits in the nursery, then looks among the couples below, her gaze resting on Blizzardfur and Coralshine. She purrs that she expects there will be many more soon.

Ravenfeather makes a rude comment, but if Shimmerstar hears it, she doesn't acknowledge it. She gives Warmmoss her name and is about to begin Newtpaw's ceremony when Otterpelt interrupts, yowling and saying she had a vision. Shimmerstar stares at her and asks what vision.

After Otterpelt describes the blood and death she saw, Shimmerstar stares at the medicine cats uneasily, but focuses on the clan again after a moment, continuing with the ceremony. She tries to sound positive, but Iceslide guesses she is unsettled by Otterpelt's words. She names Newttail and Duckwing.

#### Chapter 15

When Bone Shred asks Iceslide if he'd take them to the forest, Iceslide thinks it's a ridiculous idea, as there are about thirty of them, and they couldn't all join RiverClan. Shimmerstar wouldn't be happy if he brought her a group of scrawny twolegplace cats.

#### Chapter 17

RiverClan arrives at the gathering to find ShadowClan and ThunderClan already there. When Birdsong asks Iceslide where he's been. he lies and says he just hasn't been chosen to go to the past few gatherings, refusing to tell them that Shimmerstar revoked his warrior name for a while.

Shimmerstar speaks after Whitestar. She says that RiverClan has been well, and they have plenty of kits in the nursery. She says that the river has frozen over, but it will not weaken RiverClan. She pauses and announces three new apprentices: Mintpaw, Darkpaw, and Willowpaw.

When she finishes, Gladestar takes her place. Gladestar announces that last night they needed to chase a few rogues off of WindClan territory, adding that they headed in the direction of RiverClan territory. She advises Shimmerstar to watch her borders.

Shimmerstar thanks her, dipping her head politely. She doesn't think a few rogues will be a problem, but says they'll keep an eye out. When Shimmerstar brings the gathering to an end, she breaks Iceslide out of his thoughts. She says may StarClan light their paths until they meet again next moon. With a quick word to the other leaders, she leaps down from the rock.

#### Chapter 18

Shorestep yowls Shimmerstar's name as she and her wounded patrol enter the camp. She emerges from her den, eyes widening before she shoots over to them, asking what happened.

They explain that they were attacked by rogues, and Shimmerstar sniffs Salmonstripe anxiously, as he was wounded. Maplesky concludes that there are no serious injuries and tells Shimmerstar that they got lucky.

Shimmerstar is thoughtful as she notes that Gladestar was right to warn them. She says that they need to stand their ground and show the rogues that they're outnumbered and not welcome here. She tells Frostedcloud to increase the patrols until they're sure the rogues have gone. Frostedcloud nods, but his attention quickly turns to Otterpelt as she panics.

#### Chapter 19

When RiverClan arrive to the gathering, they find the other clans present. The leaders are deep in discussion, and judging by the looks on their faces, it isn't casual discussion, it's something serious.

Whitestar exclaims "At last, RiverClan!", and the other leaders turn as Shimmerstar joins them on the great rock.

Whitestar starts the gathering by saying she thinks they all have the same news to share this moon, talking about the rogue attacks. As the cats murmur anxiously, Birchstar speaks over them and reveals that ThunderClan has been attacked too. Shimmerstar's eyes widen at this, and she says RiverClan has been attacked too, saying that one of their patrols was attacked a quarter moon ago.

The leaders agree that until they learn more about these rogues, each clan should increase their patrols, and Birchstar adds that apprentices shouldn't be out alone, and should be sent with two or three others with them. The other leaders agree. The leaders begin sharing regular clan news, but many cats lose interest and murmur to one another about the rogues.

Gladestar suggests that each clan send a messenger if one of them has serious trouble with the rogues or learn useful information. The other leaders nod agreement.

#### Chapter 20

When Iceslide returns to camp, Shimmerstar is speaking urgently to Maplesky and Otterpelt, Salmonstripe at her side.

She calls a clan meeting her eyes filled with sadness as she says that Grayshadow and Newttail were fine cats, and they'll hold their vigils tonight. She says that these rogues are a greater threat than they could have imagined, and they must find out who they are and how to stop them.

She turns to the patrol and asks Lakesong to tell the clan exactly what happened, as much as she can remember about the attack. Lakesong nods and begins speaking. After revealing how Grayshadow died, Shimmerstar breaks the silence and asks what happened then. Frostedcloud later steps to Shimmerstar's side and says he thinks they meant to give them a warning.

When Cherryberry arrives with the body of Divetail and the wounded apprentices, Shimmerstar gasps Cherryberry's name and races over to her.

#### Chapter 21

Iceslide notices Shimmerstar leave her den with Salmonstripe beside her. She pauses and looks at her mate, her eyes anxious. He gives her a comforting lick on the ear. After a moment, she steps onto the tree stump and calls a clan meeting.

The cats slowly gather and sit down, looking up at her. Shimmerstar says she knows they're worried about the rogue attacks. She pauses before saying they seem to be safe in the camp, as the attacks only happen when they're out on patrol or training apprentices. Until they find a solution, she suggests that they limit themselves to two patrols a day with twice as many cats on each patrol, and no cat is allowed to leave the camp alone.

She is met by an uproar of yowls of disbelief and shock. Even Frostedcloud looks surprised, revealing that she hasn't spoken to him about this yet. Troutspot says that there's no way they could gather enough prey with just two patrols. Ravenfeather points out that so many cats on a hunting patrol would never work, as they'd make enough noise to scare everything from here to fourtrees.

Frostedcloud dips his head and tells Shimmerstar that with all due respect, he agrees with them, and two large patrols wouldn't do any good, especially in leaf-bare. Shorestep asks if they're going to make themselves prisoners in their own territory, her tail lashing as she says that they can't tiptoe around these rogues and change their whole way of life.

Many cats meow in agreement, and Shimmerstar raises her tail for silence, saying that she understands and she's right, but they're outnumbered, and a small patrol could easily be... She trails off, not wanting to finish and gives herself a shake, saying that they need to remain strong, but also be smart.

Maplesky speaks up and says that he thinks they should go with her plan. He suggests they speak to the other leaders at the next gathering about the rogue threat, thinking that perhaps they can unite against them. Until then, they'll be careful.

Shimmerstar dips her head and thanks Maplesky, thinking it's a good idea. She looks down at her clanmates and tells them that from now on, no cat must leave the camp alone, and patrols are to be doubled in size, twice a day. The clan murmurs their agreement, and Shimmerstar gives a nod, ready to close the meeting.

Coralshine calls out to Shimmerstar, saying she knows it's a difficult time, but she and Blizzardfur have good news to share. Shimmerstar dips her head and encourages her to speak, and every cat turns to the couple. Coralshine and Blizzardfur exchange a warm look before she reveals that they're expecting kits.

Later that day, Frostedcloud puts Iceslide on a hunting patrol. He notes that Shimmerstar hadn't been kidding about doubling the patrols inside, as Salmonstripe is leading the patrol, and they're joined by Sunripple, Shorestep, Frozenripple, Dipfoot, Risingpaw, Creekleap, and Heronleg.

A quarter moon passes, and it's noted that Darkminnow and Mintfrost have been made warriors. However Willowpaw should have been with them. Shimmerstar assures them that StarClan will have welcomed Willowpaw as a warrior, and she was very brave.

Salmonstripe calls Shimmerstar from the camp entrance, telling her that SkyClan has sent a message. Shimmerstar emerges from her den and pads forward to meet Stagleap, dipping her head and asking what's happened. He tells her that another SkyClan patrol was attacked, and Tanpelt was killed.

Shimmerstar nods solemnly and says she's sorry to hear that, adding that RiverClan has lost warriors as well. Stagleap tells her that Whitestar wants to know if she's learned anything about the rogues since the last gathering. She sighs and says she's afraid not, but they've been doubling their patrols, and she advises Whitestar to do the same, as the more cats the better.

Stagleap nods and turns away. Shimmerstar asks Salmonstripe to gather some cats and escort Stagleap back to the SkyClan border, just in case the rogues are about. Stagleap thanks her before he and the others leave.

After Iceslide reveals the locations of the camps, Bone Shred 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.

#### Chapter 22

RiverClan is awoken by Driftpaw wailing for help by the camp entrance. Shimmerstar reaches him with Frostedcloud and Salmonstripe and starts to ask what's going on. Driftpaw cuts her off and cries that they have to help them, his eyes lit with terror as he says that their camp is under attack by the rogues. He's nearly tripping over his words he's speaking so fast. He says that they're outnumbered, and it's bad. His father is already badly wounded, and his mentor, Windwhisker, is dead.

The cats murmur anxiously, and Shimmerstar exchanges an uneasy look with Frostedcloud. Driftpaw desperately begs them to come and hurry. Shimmerstar promises that they will. She quickly turns to her warriors and scans the nearest cats. She calls on Salmonstripe, Mudslip, Sunripple, Shorestep, Warmmoss, and Iceslide, then pauses as more cats hurry out into the open, calling on Winterlight and Heronleg to come too.

As the cats gather, Shimmerstar turns to Frostedcloud and orders him to make sure the camp is guarded while they're gone. He nods before rushing away to a group of warriors. Driftpaw's tail is twitching back and forth in impatience and fear as Shimmerstar turns to him and orders him to lead the way. Driftpaw spins and races out of the camp, and the RiverClan cats follow.

When they reach the WindClan camp, they're surprised to find it quiet. The battle has ended. Shimmerstar hesitates as they near the gorse tunnel, raising her tail for her cats to stop. When she decides that it's safe, she leads the way into the camp.

Shimmerstar turns to her warriors and quietly tells them to help the wounded if they can, as Hivepelt and Silverberry would appreciate the help.

Gladestar is sitting by Windwhisker's body. When she notices the RiverClan cats, she stands and addresses her with a rasp, padding over slowly. She thanks her for coming, but says she's afraid they're too late. As the leaders speak, Iceslide goes to Firetail and Soakedears.

After guiding Sunripple away from the nursery, Iceslide finds Shimmerstar and Gladestar still talking in the middle of the clearing. Shimmerstar asks if she was able to learn anything about them, resting her paw on Gladestar's shoulder as she asks if she's seen any of them before.

Gladestar stares back at her and says that since she's become leader of WindClan, she's tried to remain confident, but these rogues... She swallows, and Shimmerstar waits. After a moment, Gladestar gathers herself and tells her that these rogues are like nothing she's ever seen, or the clans for that matter. And certainly not their leader. She tells Shimmerstar that she won't believe her, as she hardly believes it herself, but the leader wears a skull on his head.

#### Chapter 23

When Iceslide reaches the RiverClan camp, he finds it under attack by the rogues. Frostedcloud is fighting beside Shimmerstar near her den, his eyes blazing with fury, fur streaked with blood.

After the rogues leave and Iceslide starts to defend himself to Troutspots, Frostedcloud yowls for Maplesky and Otterpelt to hurry. Every cat turns their attention to the far side of the clearing and Iceslide draws in a shaky gasp.

Frostedcloud is crouched over Shimmerstar, who is laying motionless, her fur stained with pools of blood. He stammers that she died twice, his eyes lit with fear as he says that she hasn't woken up yet. The medicine cats hurry over to examine her, and Creekleap lets out a cry as he runs to join Frostedcloud beside his mother.

Iceslide takes a step toward them, praying that she's okay. As the medicine cats press cobwebs to her wounds, Creekleap stares at the medicine cats and asks if she has more lives. Maplesky hesitates, as this information isn't usually shared with the clan. He quietly says that he thinks so, and to give her a few moments. StarClan will bring her back.

A pawful of cats gather around, staring at their leader anxiously. Shimmerstar awakes and croaks Maplesky's name, snapping Iceslide's attention back to her. She raises her head, her eyes dazed as she says that she's okay.

Frostedcloud lets out a sigh of relief and says "Thank StarClan!", and Creekleap licks her head. The other cats let out sighs and murmurs of relief. Shimmerstar starts to rise, and Maplesky rests his paw on her shoulder, urging her to relax for a few moments, as she needs time to recover. She says no and staggers to her paws, saying the clan needs her. Frostedcloud and Maplesky stay on either side of her in case she falls.

She slowly moves her gaze across her distressed clan. When she catches sight of Salmonstripe, she says "No...!". Frostedcloud quietly starts to say her name, but she pushes him away and staggers to the body of her mate, breathing quickly. The cats who had gathered around her quickly part themselves to each side to let her through.

Shimmerstar sinks onto her stomach and presses her head against Salmonstripe's bloody fur, letting out a wail of anguish. The agony and despair in the wail pierces Iceslide's heart like a thorn. She already lost Lilynose, and now Salmonstripe. He hangs his head and shuts his eyes, unable to watch as she cries against the body. Creekleap crouches beside her and presses against her. Iceslide notes that it's his fault.

After some time passes, Shimmerstar slowly raises her head. The clan watches her, waiting for her to say something to reassure them. She stammers that they know more about the enemy than ever before. Troutspots interrupts and says that they know more than that, glaring at Iceslide and saying they know he's a traitor.

After cats argue, Shimmerstar's voice cracks as she tries to yowl "That's enough!". She stares across at Iceslide, her eyes numb with grief as she asks if it's true.

Every cat turns to Iceslide, and he reveals that he met Bone Shred in twolegplace, and his cats were starving, so he offered to take them somewhere nearby where there was food. The cats furiously hurl insults at him. Shimmerstar yowls for silence, and the cats slowly quiet, glaring at Iceslide.

He dares to meet her gaze. For a moment, she looks numb and expressionless as she says that his little adventures in twolegplace were unacceptable enough before, but this... She trails off, fury dawning in her eyes. She staggers as she stands and says that this is something else. She asks if he has any idea what he's done, her voice rising into a furious snarl so loud and sharp that it startles him.

Iceslide chokes out her name, and she goes on, angrily shrieking that he caused all of this, her eyes filled with pain. She says that the clans are being terrorized and outnumbered by rogues. So many cats have died, and every single death, every drop of blood spilled, has been because of his stupidity.

Her words strike him like fire, shocking and breaking his heart. He whimpers that he's sorry, feeling a growing lump in his throat.

Shimmerstar screeches at him to get out of her sight, and he stumbles backwards. She says she doesn't want to see him for the rest of the day, and to go. Without thinking, Iceslide spins and flees to the warriors den, through the crowd of furious cats.

#### Chapter 24

Iceslide sees Shimmerstar and Frostedcloud speaking quietly across the clearing. When they notice him, they look at him through emotionless eyes. After a moment, Shimmerstar's eyes narrow, and her tail flicks before she and Frostedcloud look away and continue their conversation.

When Iceslide asks Blizzardfur for his help rescuing Truffle and Dime, Blizzardfur points out that he's lucky Shimmerstar didn't exile him yesterday.

#### Chapter 25

When Iceslide returns to the RiverClan camp after the attack, he sees Shimmerstar croak Creekleap's name and slump down beside her son's body, pressing her muzzle against his fur and saying "No... Not you too..."

Heartsong runs over and crouches beside Shimmerstar, licking Creekleap's shoulder.

Shimmerstar steps back as Tansykit, Wetkit, and Frostkit run over to their father's body. As the kits wonder what happened, Heartsong looks away, and Shimmerstar rests her tail over her back as she quietly tells the kits that their father hunts with StarClan now. Frostkit stares up at her with wide eyes as he understands what that means.

#### Chapter 26

It's noted that Shimmerstar lost another life in the battle, and cats are very worried that she's on her last life. She's spent the last few days in her den, refusing to see anyone.

Ravenfeather had scornfully commented that she must be on her last life, why else would she hide away at a time like this. Vixenwhisper jumped to her defense and reminded Ravenfeather that she's lost her mate and both her kits, and she's grieving. Ravenfeather had growled that her clan should be put first.

Heronleg had anxiously asked what would happen if she is on her last life and dies, as Frostedcloud would never make it to the moonstone without being attacked by the rogues. They would be leaderless.

#### Chapter 27

The clearing is nearly empty. The only other cats are Shimmerstar and Frostedcloud, who are on the far side of the clearing by the tree stump.

Shimmerstar's raspy snarl for Frostedcloud to send out a hunting patrol catches Iceslide's attention, and he looks up to see her facing Frostedcloud, her fur bristling. She tells him that it's leaf bare, and they have even less prey than they normally would.

Frostedcloud looks down and tells her that a lot of cats are afraid to go, especially the younger warriors and apprentices. They're afraid of being attacked. Shimmerstar flattens her ears and asks if he thinks she doesn't know that, trying to hiss, but her voice rises into a cry. She says that their own territory is dangerous these days, but Heartsong and Cherryberry's kits have to eat. They all do.

Frostedcloud sharply retorts that no cat will be eating if the cats they send die, asking if that's what she wants. Iceslide is startled. He's never seen them argue like this, and realizes that even they don't know what to do. He notes that they've started planning everything they do around the rogues, and it's effecting everyone. For a moment, Shimmerstar bristles angrily, then she calms her eyes flooding with despair. She apologizes to Frostedcloud and starts to explain herself, then trails off.

Frostedcloud rests a paw gently on her shoulder and lowers his head, quietly saying that this is a difficult time for their clan. They've suffered a great deal this season, and no cat knows what to do. Winterlight watches them sadly, quietly saying that it's hard to see Shimmerstar like this. She used to be such a strong and determined leader and would never give up, but now... Iceslide nods, looking down.

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 Iceslide returns from the hunting patrol, he's about to drop a mouse on the little fresh kill pile when he hesitates and looks toward Shimmerstar's den, guessing that she's refusing to eat. He goes to her den and hesitates, peering in. She's sitting with her back turned, pawing gently at her nest, which is big enough for two cats. He sadly notes that Salmonstripe used to sleep there, and she doesn't want to change her nest. He hesitates and wonders if he should disturb her.

He's about to back away when she seems to sense him and looks over her shoulder, prompting him, her voice dull. He awkwardly pads into the den and dips his head, dropping the mouse on the floor and apologizing, asking if he disturbed her. Shimmerstar turns slowly to face him and says no, asking what it is.

Iceslide is hurt by the dull look of grief in her eyes. They had once blazed with confidence. He can almost feel her sorrow. It fills the den, thick as mist. It triggers the guilt in his heart, but he tries to ignore it and nudges the mouse toward her, saying it's for her. She immediately says no and for him to give it to the queens. He tells her that they've already eaten, and she hasn't.

Shimmerstar narrows her eyes and tells him to give it to another warrior then. She says that the clan comes first, though she knows he has a hard time seeing that. Iceslide is stung by her words, but remains calm and collected. He tells her that she's his leader, and she needs to eat. They need her. He turns away toward the mouth of the den, leaving the mouse with her. She suddenly calls him, and he pauses and looks over his shoulder. She gives him a small nod and thanks him, then adds that she'd like him to speak to some of his other friends at the gathering tomorrow night, as they might know something.

At the mention of the gathering, he freezes, his blood turning to ice as he remembers what he told Bone Shred. 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 cuts him off and says that's enough, and he falls silent, looking at her anxiously. Her eyes flick back and forth at the ground as she thinks quickly. She 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, Shimmerstar joins the other leaders on the great rock. The leaders hesitate, unsure of whether to wait for the attack or start the gathering as usual. It's noted that Shimmerstar spoke after Gladestar and before Whitestar.

When Bone Shred leaps onto the great rock, he gives the leaders a chance to leave the forest and never return. Shimmerstar furiously snarls "never!", her tail lashing madly as she says this is their home. Bone Shred dips his head and says very well, then calls on his cats to attack.

By the great rock, Iceslide sees that the leaders have leaped down into battle, screeching with fury. Shimmerstar is biting a rogue in the shoulder as she grips him.

When the other clans retreat, Shimmerstar staggers and shakes blood from her eyes before yowling for RiverClan to retreat. Iceslide is dismayed, thinking that they can't give up.

#### Chapter 28

In the clearing, cats are murmuring to one another anxiously. Frostedcloud tries to calm them, but they ignore him and continue arguing. He looks over his shoulder at Shimmerstar helplessly, and she turns and leaps onto the tree stump, yowling for silence and for every cat to gather around.

The clan slowly calms and looks up at Shimmerstar. Iceslide gets up and pads out of the den, looking up at her. He hopes that she still has the ability to gather her distressed clan. Last night's defeat couldn't have made her any more confident.

She quietly says that all the clans suffered at the gathering. They lost Shallowpool, a fine warrior who fought bravely for them. Shimmerstar seems to have difficulty finding the right words in her distressed state. She notes that three of the medicine cats were killed: Junglefoot, Hivepelt, and Flowerwing. She goes on to say that Whitestar was killed, and she believes that Raventuft is going to attempt the journey to the moonstone to receive his nine lives. She closes her eyes and prays that he gets there safely. She adds that Gladestar tells her that they've taken two of Bone Shred's rogues prisoner, and she hopes to get information out of them that the clans can use. Shimmerstar says that Otterpelt would like to speak, and steps down from the stump, her tail dragging behind her as the medicine cat takes her place.

As Otterpelt confesses hiding her omen from the clan, Iceslide remembers how moons ago, he overheard Otterpelt, Shimmerstar, and Maplesky agree to lie to the clan to avoid spreading panic.

As the cats yell at Iceslide, Shimmerstar yowls that's enough, and he looks up to see her on the stump again. The cats quiet, but continue glaring at him. She tells them that Iceslide did not kill their clanmates, the rogues did, and asks if that's clear. No cat agrees, but no cat dares to disagree either. She calls the meeting to an end and leaves the tree stump.

While speaking to Otterpelt, Iceslide asks why she didn't stop him or tell Shimmerstar to confine him to the camp or something. Otterpelt shakes her head and quietly says there was no stopping him, as he wanted to see his friends, and he went to great lengths to do that. Shimmerstar could have tied him up with reeds, and you still would have found a way to twolegplace.

When the clan awakes to Bone Shred in the camp, 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.

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 looks amused as he says that there's no madness, 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, however he kills him anyway.

While Heartsong, Tansypaw, and Frostpaw go to Wetpaw's body, every other cat in the clan is focused on Shimmerstar, yowling and crying out anxiously. Swanpool wails that she can't, as that monster will kill her. Dipfoot insists that they need her to lead them more than ever. Darkminnow leaps to his paws and points out that she's a leader with nine lives, so she'll be fine if she loses.

Shimmerstar is quiet for a moment before she quietly reveals that this is her last life. The clearing bursts into panic. Iceslide stares at her in shock, his heart racing in his chest as he thinks "No!". Frostedcloud says "Shimmerstar, no!" and faces her, his eyes full of anxiety as he says she can't do this. She looks away as she tells him that this is her decision, and she will either put an end to this or give her life for her clan. She says that he will lead them well. She drops her gaze and adds that she'll get to be with Salmonstripe and their kits again.

As the cats protest, Iceslide's mind spins, silently telling StarClan this is terrible. The thought of Shimmerstar in her weak and defeated state facing a powerful, merciless cat like Bone Shred terrifies him. His heart thumps hard against his rib cage. He thinks that they can't lose their clan leader. The clan is in enough panic as it is. They're depending on Shimmerstar to lead them through it.

Suddenly for the first time in moons, he understands what he has to do. He knows what Otterpelt meant. His time to act is now. Without any hesitation, he steps forward and tells Shimmerstar to let him fight in her place. Every cat goes silent and stares at him in shock and disbelief. Shimmerstar turns to him sharply, her eyes widening, and she starts to say his name. Iceslide insists that the clan needs her, feeling strangely undaunted as every cat watches him in amazement. He says that she needs to lead them through this, but no cat needs him. He pads over to her and meets her gaze, saying that he caused all of this, and he must be the one to put an end to it. 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.

When Shimmerstar doesn't speak, her eyes filled with emotion, Iceslide stares at her, his heart filled with sadness as he pleads with her, saying that after all the death and suffering he's caused, he's more than willing to sacrifice himself for RiverClan, for her, and for every cat he's helped send to StarClan. Shimmerstar stares back at him, her eyes filled with sorrow. Beside her, Frostedcloud looks at him uncertainly. Winterlight is staring at him numbly, while others exchange looks of sadness and unease. No cat looks angry at him, and it surprises him. Every cat seems shocked and saddened at his offer. Otterpelt watches him sadly and gives him a tiny nod.

After a long moment, Shimmerstar steps forward and rests her chin on Iceslide's head. He closes his eyes as she speaks softly and says very well, her voice cracking with emotion as she thanks him and agrees to let him fight in her place.

#### Chapter 29

Iceslide is alone in the camp watching the sky. He hears snow crunching and looks over his shoulder to see Shimmerstar padding over to him. He returns his gaze to the sky as she quietly sits beside him. It's quiet for a long moment as they watch the sky together.

Shimmerstar quietly asks if he's sure he wants to do this, and he gives a subtle nod. After a few moments, Shimmerstar looks at him and asks if he's afraid. He hesitates before quietly admitting that he is. He's afraid of losing because everything depends on this battle. She responds that the fate of the clans is on his shoulders, and it's a lot of pressure for one cat, the kind that a leader faces every day.

For the first time in his life, Iceslide feels a great wave of respect for his leader. He's always been selfish and annoyed by the clan rules that she reinforces. He'd never thought about how much pressure she has always been under, protecting her clan and knowing that any decision she makes could effect the other clans as well. He quietly says that he's honored to be one of her warriors, even if he never acted like one.

They sit together in silence for a long moment before Shimmerstar quietly says that Lilynose talked about him often. She believed in him, and she would tell Shimmerstar that he was a great warrior, he was just different. She pauses before saying she disagreed, and still does. Iceslide glances at her in surprise, silently and sarcastically commenting that it's a nice thing to say to someone who is about to risk their life on her behalf. Shimmerstar tells him that he's not a great warrior, but he's a great cat. Her eyes fill with respect as she adds that she thinks that says more about him. Somehow her words comfort him. He isn't sure that he agrees with her, but knowing that she means it gives him a sense of purpose and reassurance. He murmurs a thank you, and it's quiet again as they watch the sun rise.

When he sees Winterlight padding toward him, he dips his head to Shimmerstar, then turns and steps forward to meet his sister.

Shimmerstar addresses Iceslide, and he turns and sees his clanmates gathered by the camp entrance. Shimmerstar and Otterpelt are at the head of the group, waiting for him. The leader quietly tells him it's time. The words echo in his head. He draws in a deep breath and follows Frostedcloud over to the others. With a last gaze around the camp, he turns to Shimmerstar and says "let's go".

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. Shimmerstar follows Iceslide onto the river.

Shimmerstar looks at him solemnly and asks if he's ready. He says he is and stares ahead of them, waiting for the rogues to arrive. He isn't so nervous anymore. He feels determined and full of hope. This is his destiny and what he's meant to do. He can feel it like fire in his bones. Shimmerstar wishes him luck and rests her chin on his head as though naming a new warrior. She tells him in a murmur that whatever happens, RiverClan will honor him for this, as well as StarClan. He closes his eyes for a moment as he considers her words, wondering if StarClan will honor him after he caused the deaths of so many cats and broke the warrior code in so many ways.

As Shimmerstar turns away and joins the rest of the clan by the riverbank, Iceslide looks ahead of him and waits for the rogues to arrive.

When Bone Shred arrives, 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. Iceslide glances behind him and sees RiverClan watching him, their expressions full of worry and unease. Shimmerstar stands by a snowbank, staring at him with a saddened, but hopeful look in her eyes.

After Bone Shred drowns and Iceslide collapses onto the ice, he opens his eyes. Shimmerstar and Frostedcloud rush over to him, but he can only make out their blurry shapes against the bright snow. Shimmerstar stares down at him numbly and crouches, touching her nose to his head. She thanks him in a murmur and tells him they'll never forget him. StarClan will welcome him.

Iceslide parts his jaws weakly to respond, but can't, and instead chokes up blood and tries to focus on the blurring world around him. Beyond Shimmerstar appear warriors of StarClan.

#### Chapter 30

When recalling the fight against Bone Shred, Maplefur silently 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.

## Quotes

*"Otterpelt's omen has struck fear into the clan. I must admit it's on my mind too. Something must be done."*

-Shimmerstar to Salmonstripe in *"Beyond the River"*, chapter 3

*"The clan was afraid, Otterpelt. Whatever our destiny is, we must face it without fear."*

-Shimmerstar in *"Beyond the River"*, chapter 3

*"You know as leader, I can't favorite any warriors. But if I had to choose, it would be you three."*

-Shimmerstar to Salmonstripe and their kits in *"Beyond the River"*, chapter 5

*"Iceslide, you are a warrior of RiverClan."*

Iceslide: *"I know. I-"*

*"Then why don't you act like it? You're never in the camp. You hardly ever bring back prey for your clanmates. You spent today in twolegplace, and I assume it's not the first time. This kind of behavior cannot be tolerated. Not in my clan."*

-Shimmerstar to Iceslide in *"Beyond the River"*, chapter 7

*"Just as I have the power to give warrior names, I can take them away from those who haven't lived up to them. You will repeat your apprenticeship under Frozenripple until you have proven your understanding of the warrior code. When you do, you will return to your warrior duties. Until then, you are an apprentice."*

-Shimmerstar to Iceslide in *"Beyond the River"*, chapter 7

*"I hope you've learned your lesson. You are a warrior of RiverClan. Don't forget what that means."*

-Shimmerstar to Iceslide in *"Beyond the River"*, chapter 9

*"RiverClan has been well, and we have plenty of kits in the nursery. The river has frozen over, however it will not weaken RiverClan."*

-Shimmerstar at a gathering in *"Beyond the River"*, chapter 17

*"So Gladestar was right to warn us. We just need to stand our ground and show them that they're outnumbered and not welcome here. Increase the patrols until we're sure they've gone."*

-Shimmerstar about the rogues in *"Beyond the River"*, chapter 18

*"These rogues are a greater threat than we could have imagined. We must find out who they are and stop them."*

 -Shimmerstar to the clan in *"Beyond the River"*, chapter 20

*"Cats of RiverClan, I know you're all worried about the rogue attacks. We seem to be safe in our camp. The attacks only happen when we're out on patrol or training apprentices. Until we find a solution, I say that we limit ourselves to two patrols a day, with twice as many cats on each patrol. No cat is to leave the camp alone."*

 -Shimmerstar to the clan in *"Beyond the River"*, chapter 21

*"You've caused all of this! The clans are being terrorized and outnumbered by rogues! Cats have died, Iceslide, so many cats! And every single death, every drop of blood spilled, has been because of your stupidity!"*

 -Shimmerstar to Iceslide in *"Beyond the River"*, chapter 23

*"Let us live in peace. Isn't that what we all want? Stay on your land, and we'll stay on ours. End this madness."*

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

*"Frostedcloud, this is my decision. I will either put an end to this, or give my life for my clan. You will lead them well. And I'll get to be with Salmonstripe and our kits again."*

 -Shimmerstar about her decision to accept Bone Shred's challenge in *"Beyond the River"*, chapter 28

*"The fate of the clans is on your shoulders. That's a lot of pressure for one cat. The kind that a leader faces every day."*

 -Shimmerstar to Iceslide in *"Beyond the River"*, chapter 29

*"You know, Lilynose talked about you often. She believed in you. She would tell me that you were a great warrior, you were just different. I disagreed. I still do. You're not a great warrior, Iceslide, but you're a great cat. And I think that says more about you."*

 -Shimmerstar to Iceslide in *"Beyond the River"*, chapter 29

*"Good luck, Iceslide. Whatever happens, RiverClan will honor you for this. StarClan will honor you."*

 -Shimmerstar to Iceslide in *"Beyond the River"*, chapter 29

*"Thank you, Iceslide. we will never forget you. StarClan will welcome you."*

 -Shimmerstar to Iceslide as he dies in *"Beyond the River"*, chapter 29