Maplefur

## Book Appearances

### Living

Shadows of Blood, Beyond the River, Deserve's Beginning, Starfaith's Fate, Rainheart's Love, Milkblaze's Suspicion

### Dead

Shadows of Blood

**Maplefur** is a creamy tabby tom with yellow eyes.

## Appearances and Mentions

### Beyond the River

#### Allegiances

Maplekit is listed under Allegiances and Allegiance Update 1 as a kit of ShadowClan, the son of Baconstripe and Redblaze.

Maplepaw is listed under Allegiance Update 2, Allegiance Update 3, Allegiance Update 4 as an apprentice of ShadowClan, being mentored by Silverblossom.

Maplefur is listed under Allegiance Update 5, Allegiance Update 6, Allegiance Update 7, Allegiance Update 8, and Final Allegiances as a warrior of ShadowClan.

#### Chapter 6

It is the night of a gathering. Iceslide is curious about how his friends in other clans are, and wonders if Redblaze had her kits, noting that he'll have to ask Baconstripe.

When Stormstar announces their newest apprentices: Maplepaw, Rosepaw, and Milkpaw, The clans cheer their names, and Maplepaw's eyes shine with pride as he looks around him.

Iceslide sees that they all have creamy pelts like Redblaze and realizes that they must be she and Baconstripe's kits.

#### Chapter 17

When Stormstar speaks for ShadowClan, he says that they have several new warriors, and announces that firstly, they have Maplefur, Rosebreeze, and Milkblaze.

The cats cheer their names, and Iceslide peers over the heads of the other cats, seeing them sitting together proudly.

Baconstripe and Redblaze aren't far from their kits, cheering the loudest, their eyes shining with pride.

#### Chapter 30

Maplefur is crouched, sniffing for prey. He picks up the scent of frog and spots it near the trunk of a pine tree. He silently notes that it's a bit soon for frogs to return, but he's not complaining. ShadowClan needs more prey.

He catches it and returns to his patrol. The others look at him approvingly, and Poppywing and Cobratail look impressed. Poppywing praises his catch, and he dips his head in thanks.

When Crowmask mentions Bone Shred's rogues, 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.

Maplefur suggests they try in the marsh by the WindClan border, adding that they should catch some extra prey for Sunflower and her kits. When Cobratail points out that they'd have better luck by the ThunderClan border, Maplefur realizes he's right and dips his head, saying it's a great idea. He notes that Cobratail is very wise, despite being a young warrior like he is.

They continue through the trees until suddenly the bushes rustle in front of them, and they stop. Maplefur uncertainly murmurs and asks what is it. When Crowmask picks up the scent of rogue and tells the cat to show themself, the patrol spreads out and stands, preparing to face the intruder. Maplefur unsheathes his claws and stares at the bush, his tail lashing slowly.

When Crowmask attacks Poisoned Sap, Maplefur immediately shoots forward and gasps, asking what he's doing. He snaps at Maplefur that she's a rogue, and one of Bone Shred's. He raises an unsheathed paw. Maplefur thinks "No!" and shoulders him away from her, and he staggers back, glaring at him sharply and asking what's wrong with him.

Maplefur steps in front of Poisoned Sap and bristles as he faces Crowmask, sharply pointing out that she hasn't done anything wrong. He attacked, not her, she meant them no harm. He suggests they find out why she's here and what she wants. Crowmask opens his jaws to argue, but Bluerain agrees and sends Poppywing to fetch Stormstar.

Maplefur silently thanks StarClan, as they don't need unnecessary bloodshed. He looks down over his shoulder and sees her crouched behind him, trembling as she stares up at him gratefully. She thanks him and sighs in relief. Maplefur silently notes that she can't be a threat, as she looks terrified.

When Poisoned Sap claims that Bone Shred forced her to help him, 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.

After Poisoned Sap pleads with Stormstar, Maplefur silently thinks that they can't turn her away. When Stormstar orders Crowmask to kill her, Maplefur leaps in the way and faces him, bristling and saying "No!". Crowmask snarls, and Stormstar looks furious as he orders Maplefur to move aside.

Maplefur hesitates, but decides to disobey his clan leader. He tells Stormstar that they can't turn away a helpless she-cat, and he believes she's telling the truth. He asks if he heard about Howlstorm and Dandeliontail at the last gathering. Bluerain recalls that they trained to be warriors and turned out to be good cats.

Stormstar hesitates, seeming to consider this. He asks how they know she's telling the truth. Maplefur asks what she has to gain by lying, looking down at her. He says that she's only one cat and couldn't do any harm even if she wanted to. He looks back at Stormstar anxiously and says that they can't kill a cat for doing things she didn't want to do. She was forced, just like Howlstorm and Dandeliontail. He says she deserves a chance.

As Stormstar considers this, Maplefur silently begs him to let her join us, as he doesn't want to see her die. She's been through enough and deserves a new life, a better one. Stormstar agrees.

As they head back to camp, Maplefur looks at Poisoned Sap worriedly and asks if she's alright. Poisoned Sap looks at him thoughtfully, silently noting that he might be the softest fool of them all. She puts on her act again and tells him she's a little shaken, but she'll be alright. They pad side by side behind the others. She looks at him gratefully and thanks him, adding that he saved her life.

Maplefur dips his head and says he wouldn't let an innocent cat die. He pauses and introduces himself. Poisoned Sap says that she's glad he was here and looks at him, trying to seem nervous as she asks if his clan will be angry with her. Maplefur brushes his shoulder against hers and admits that it might take some time for them to trust her, but tells her not to worry, they'll come around. He pauses before adding that she'll love life in ShadowClan, and he's sure she'll settle in and be a great warrior.

Poisoned Sap silently notes that this will be easier than she thought. She smiles at him and says she's sure she'll be very happy here, and she looks forward to becoming one of them. Maplefur lets out a purr.

### Deserve's Beginning

#### Allegiances

Maplefur is listed under Allegiances as a warrior of ShadowClan with an apprentice, Diamondpaw.

### Milkblaze's Suspicion

#### Allegiances

Maplefur is listed under Allegiances as a warrior of ShadowClan with an apprentice, Diamondpaw.

### Rainheart's Love

#### Allegiances

Maplefur is listed under Allegiances as a warrior of ShadowClan with an apprentice, Diamondpaw.

#### Chapter 1

Silverblossom and Maplefur are seen leading their apprentices toward the thorn tunnel. When Silverblossom says they'll be covering battle moves, Diamondpaw's eyes widen nervously, and she asks Maplefur if they'll be doing that too.

Maplefur says yes, but softly tells her not to worry, promising that it's only training, and no cat will get hurt. She relaxes a little. The four head out into the forest.

#### Chapter 2

Depthwater is standing by the meeting rock, organizing patrols. He asks Crowmask to lead a patrol to leave fresh scent markers on the WindClan border with Rosebreeze, Ashcloud, and Silverblossom.

After Silverblossom reminds Depthwater of the apprentices assessments, Depthwater has Maplefur and Diamondpaw join the patrol instead.

#### Chapter 3

During Stormstar's vigil, Rainheart sees movement from the corner of his eye and turns his head. He sees Poisonedsap returning to the warriors den, her ragged tail lashing behind her. Maplefur stares after her, his eyes flashing with surprise. After a moment, he returns his attention to the vigil.

When Depthstar is about to choose a deputy, Rainheart studies the cats around him and wonders who it will be. He guesses Crowmask or Maplefur.

#### Chapter 4

Rainheart and Poppywing are relaxing together, watching their clanmates contently. Maplefur and Poisonedsap lay near the warriors den. He's grooming her fur, but she looks far from comfortable.

#### Chapter 5

Rainheart rushes into the nursery with a mouse for Poppywing. Poisonedsap is annoyed at how often he visits, muttering that if Maplefur were barging into the nursery as much as he was, she'd shred his ears.

#### Chapter 6

When Rainheart steps out of the nursery, he's surprised to see many cats in the clearing watching him curiously. When he confirms that Poppywing is kitting, Maplefur purrs "that's great" and tells him not to worry, adding that it won't take long. Rainheart silently notes that it feels like it's been long enough already, but blinks gratefully at Maplefur.

### Shadows of Blood

#### Allegiances

Maplefur is listed under Allegiances as a warrior of ShadowClan.

#### Chapter 2

Bloodkit is visiting Swiftkit when a quiet voice behind him says Swiftkit's name. Bloodkit nearly jumps out of his fur and spins, bristling to see a cat standing in the entrance of the den. After a heartbeat, Bloodkit recognizes him as Maplefur, Swiftkit's father.

Swiftkit lets out a soft purr as Maplefur leans over him and licks his ear, saying he heard about what happened and asking if he's alright. Swiftkit replies that he's okay. Maplefur looks at Bloodkit, who tenses. He notes that Maplefur has always seemed nicer than Poisonedsap, but Bloodkit isn't sure what Maplefur thinks of him. He tells Bloodkit that he just spoke with Depthstar and Flameheart, and Bloodkit stares up at him nervously. Swiftkit tells his father that Bloodkit didn't mean to hurt him, it was an accident. Maplefur murmurs that he knows, and Bloodkit is surprised that he believes him.

Maplefur sits down, and Bloodkit feels his stomach churn under his gaze. He says that he hears what the clan says about him, and is sure that he does too. He pauses and seems to choose his next words carefully. He tells him that their paths aren't laid out at birth like some cats think. It's up to them to build them. Bloodkit stares at him, fascinated as he takes in his words.

Maplefur goes on quietly to say that the clan may think they know who Bloodkit is and what he may become, but they don't, not yet. He needs to show them. Bloodkit anxiously asks how. Maplefur tells him it'll take time, and he needs to be patient. He tells him never to let anyone cause him doubt, focus on his training, and one day he'll be one of ShadowClan's finest warriors. He'll prove his loyalty and worth to them. Bloodkit asks if he really thinks so, and Maplefur says he does with a nod.

Bloodkit is filled with courage and determination. Maplefur's words give him hope. He silently vows that he will be a warrior, and he will show ShadowClan how valuable he is. He squeaks thank yous to Maplefur before running out of the den, overjoyed.

#### Chapter 3

Maplefur pokes his head into the medicine den and asks what happened. He gasps Stonekit's name and shoots to his side, touching his nose to his ear. He asks him what happened, then spots Swiftkit. He brushes past Poisonedsap, who growls lowly as he begins lapping at Swiftkit's fur.

When Dewstorm explains that the kits were playing and got carried away, Maplefur bristles and glances at Poisonedsap. Her eyes are fixed on him, her tail lashing slowly. He asks if he can have a word with her and leaves the den, and she follows.

Bloodkit stares after them curiously and watches. Maplefur reminds Poisonedsap that he doesn't want Swiftkit and Stonekit fighting like that, and they need to keep their claws sheathed. She lashes her tail fiercely and argues that if they're going to be strong warriors, they need to know how to use their claws. She adds that when they're apprenticed, StarClan knows their mentors will make them battle train like a couple of declawed kittypets.

Maplefur looks stunned and asks if he'd rather have this, gesturing to the medicine den. He says she's lucky they weren't seriously injured. Poisonedsap retorts that injuries are a part of life, and it's best they learn that sooner than later. He says no, as they're kits, and they aren't supposed to suffer like this. Poisonedsap says that it's training, and they need it, especially Swiftkit, as all the time he spends with Bloodkit has made him weak.

Maplefur demands that she stop this cruel training of hers at once, and if anything like this happens again, he'll tell Depthstar what she's doing, and she can go back to being a rogue. Poisonedsap studies him calmly and says that he knows better than that. He holds her gaze for a moment, and they're silent, tails lashing. Bloodkit wonders if they're going to fight.

Maplefur growls that he doesn't like seeing his kits like this. Poisonedsap tells him not to see them then, ever again. She begins licking her claws clean. His eyes widen as he says they're his kits too. She growls that they're only her kits as far as she's concerned, and they don't need a father. He only weakens them. He starts to object, but she snarls at him not to ever come near those kits again, or he'll be sorry. She spins around, and Bloodkit shoots back into the den before she sees him. Maplefur stares after her.

#### Chapter 4

Swiftkit awakes to murmuring close to his ear. He raises his head and blinks away sleep. He lets out a delighted purr when he sees it's Maplefur. He stands and rubs his head against his father's, purring. It's noted that he hasn't seen Maplefur in several days. After the fight with Stonekit, Poisonedsap told them Maplefur wasn't going to visit them anymore. This had upset Swiftkit until one night, Maplefur came and explained that Poisonedsap had ordered him to stay away. But he can come at night when Poisonedsap is asleep. Maplefur never wakes Stonekit, only Swiftkit.

The first night Maplefur visited, Swiftkit asked if Stonekit would want to see him too. Maplefur had hesitated for a moment, but then murmured that he doesn't think he would, as he feels that Stonekit's loyalty lies with his mother. Swiftkit misses seeing his father everyday, but he's grateful that he comes to visit him some nights.

Maplefur sits up, and Swiftkit stares up at him and whispers that he's going to be apprenticed tomorrow. Maplefur purrs that he knows. Swiftkit eagerly asks if he'll be there to watch the ceremony. Maplefur promises he will, lowering his head and licking Swiftkit's head as he adds that he wouldn't miss it for all the prey in the forest. Swiftkit purrs and promises he'll make him proud. Maplefur says he knows he will, his eyes shining with affection.

When Poisonedsap says Maplefur's name, Maplefur bristles in shock and looks over his shoulder. She asks if that's Maplefur, as it can't be, because she told him to stay away from her kits. Swiftkit stares at her anxiously, then flicks his eyes to his father. Maplefur turns to face her calmly and meets her gaze, growling that nothing will keep him from seeing his kits. She looks at him calmly, and for several heartbeats, neither cat speaks. His tail twitches slightly.

After what feels like moons, she dips her head and says that perhaps she was wrong, as they are his kits after all. She suggests they go into the forest and discuss this privately, adding that she's sure they can come to an arrangement. Swiftkit is pleasantly surprised, thinking that she's not mad at him and she might let Maplefur see them, and that's great. Maplefur looks pleasantly surprised. He hesitates, then dips his head and says "very well". She says "wonderful" and flicks her tail.

Swiftkit watches as his parents leave the den. He sees that everyone else is still asleep. He looks into the clearing as he wonders what they'll talk about. He knows it would be wrong to eavesdrop, but he wants to hear this. He decides to go. When he picks up the scent of his parents, he's surprised to find it leading away from the thorn tunnel where the guards are. He thinks Maplefur and Poisonedsap were trying to avoid them. He goes into the forest and spots shadows up ahead, realizing it's them. He freezes and watches from the bushes.

Poisonedsap growls to Maplefur that this is his last chance, and tells him to stay away from those kits. He's surprised and starts to point out that she said they could come to an arrangement, but she interrupts and dismisses it. Maplefur stares at her angrily, his tail lashing back and forth. He asks how dare she do this after all he's done for her. He reminds her that she was a rogue, and not just any rogue, she was a member of her brother's gang, who attacked and killed warriors and apprentices. He goes on to say that her brother was killed, glaring at her steadily. She begged for mercy and for them to give her food and shelter. She seemed like a helpless, innocent she-cat, and told them that her brother forced her to attack them.

She narrows her eyes as Maplefur says that that their leader, Stormstar, wanted to have her killed, but Maplefur thought she deserved a chance. He vouched for her, and when every cat in the clan didn't trust her, he was there and treated her well. He narrows his eyes and says that now she's telling him he can't see his own kits anymore. He says that she wouldn't even have them if it weren't for him, and wouldn't even be here.

She studies him for a long moment and says that he has treated her well, and she's grateful. She lets out a soft purr and adds that she doesn't need him anymore. Maplefur narrows his eyes and says that maybe she doesn't, but the kits do. He loves them, and she can't stop him. Poisonedsap frowns and says she doesn't think he understands, and perhaps she needs to elaborate. It's silent for a moment, then she snarls and lunges at him.

Swiftkit gasps, and Maplefur's eyes go wide in alarm. She pins him onto his back and leans close, baring her teeth and sneering as she asks if he understands now. She doesn't need him anymore. She digs her claws into his shoulders, and Swiftkit stares and feels frozen and horrified, silently saying "No!" and asking what she's doing.

Maplefur stares up at her, realization lighting his eyes. He hisses that she was never a good cat, and is just like her brother, a cruel, worthless rogue. She sneers that he's a fool and fell right into her trap, calling him a pathetic warrior. He tries to get up, but she hisses and pins him back against the ground. She tells him the clans killed her brother, her friends, and took everything from her, so what better way to take out her vengeance than to take everything from them. She purrs that she will destroy the clans from within. Maplefur spits that she'll never do that alone.

Poisonedsap's eyes gleam as she agrees and says there are plenty of clan cats who will join her, and when they're strong enough, they will destroy the clans. He snaps that no warrior would betray their clan for her. She purrs of course not, as fully grown warriors are hard to persuade, but kits can be taught to believe anything. She narrows her eyes and tells Maplefur that's why she needed him. He gave her two fine kits who will one day fight alongside her in a final battle against the clans, and he could have given her more, but she obviously can't trust him.

Maplefur's eyes flare with fury as he says that those kits will never be like her. They will be loyal clan warriors. Her eyes gleam as she sneers that they'll be loyal to her and her alone. She'll find a new mate, one who isn't weak and stupid like him. One who will make her future kits strong. She digs her claws into him and says that he could have been part of it and watched Swiftkit and Stonekit grow up to be the most dangerous cats in the forest, but now he never will. She raises her claws, and Swiftkit gasps in terror.

Maplefur takes advantage of the moment and slams upward into her, throwing her off of him. She lets out a furious snarl and swings her claws at him, but he ducks and rakes his claws across her shoulder. She screeches and launches herself at him, rolling him onto his back and digging her hind claws into his spine. Maplefur yowls and rolls over, throwing a blow to her muzzle. She snarls and lunges once more, aiming her paws at his shoulder and slamming him to the ground. Swiftkit flinches as he hears Maplefur's body thud against the earth. Maplefur gasps as the breath is knocked out of him.

Swiftkit silently shrieks at his father to get up. Poisonedsap lunges down at Maplefur's throat, and Swiftkit stares in horror as she fastens her teeth into his throat. Maplefur lets out a choked cry and pushes his paws against her chest in a weak attempt to save himself, but she bites harder into him. Swiftkit's mind screams at him to help his father, silently telling Poisonedsap to stop and get off him, but his paws won't move. His blood feels frozen in his veins. Time stands still as he watches his father fight for his life.

She holds his throat firmly, her tail lashing as she waits for him to stop struggling. After what feels like forever, Maplefur's paws slowly drop from her. He goes still, the life dying from his wide eyes. Poisonedsap releases his throat and raises her head, her eyes gleaming as she studies him. Blood oozes heavily from his throat and his mouth.

Swiftkit stumbles back, feeling blind with shock and fear and numb with grief. He starts running, as he thinks that he has to warn the clan about Poisonedsap.

#### Chapter 5

Swiftkit awakes in the forest. With a start, he remembers the events of last night and how Poisonedsap killed Maplefur. He hangs his head and whimpers as grief swells his heart. He thinks that he needs to tell the clan what she's planning, wondering what stopped him last night. He realizes that he must have fainted, as he was afraid and in shock. He tenses in alarm as he wonders if Poisonedsap knows he saw her kill Maplefur.

When Poisonedsap asks what he's doing out of the nursery, he stammers, lost for words, knowing he can't let her know that he saw. She seems to see right through him and growls as she steps toward him, telling him he's sorry he had to see that. Swiftkit staggers backwards and lowers himself to the ground, choking out as he asks why she did it. She says Maplefur was holding him back.

Swiftkit cries that he wasn't, he was his dad, and she killed him. His paws tremble, yet he feels braver than ever. He raises his head to his mother, trying to keep his voice from shaking as he rasps that he's going to tell the clan what she did, and she'll be exiled. Poisonedsap purrs and says that he wouldn't exile his own mother, and asks if the clan would really believe the wild imagination of a kit. Her tail twitches as she fixes her eyes on them and tells him they'll never know the truth.

Swiftkit stares at her, his ears flattening. His heart pounds with fear as he whimpers and asks if she's going to kill him too. For a moment, she looks genuinely startled, saying she'd never kill him, he's her kit. He stares at her and wonders if he can believe that. Just as Swiftkit begins to calm, she touches her muzzle to his ear and murmurs that if he tells any cat what he saw, she'll kill every cat in the nursery.

When she leaves, Swiftkit wonders why he had to see her kill Maplefur. Everyone is in danger now, and it's his fault. For a moment, he considers running. He doesn't know where he would go, only that he wants to get as far away from Poisonedsap as possible. Somewhere safe, somewhere where no cat would get hurt because of what he saw.

Later that day, Copperstripe asks "Where in StarClan's name is Maplefur?". He and Flameheart are speaking to Cobratail, Stripedpaw and Song sitting near them. Cobratail flicks his tail and asks if he wasn't with them, as he said he'd help assess the apprentices. Flameheart agrees, but says Maplefur never showed up. Copperstripe adds that they waited a while for him, but the apprentices were ready to explode, and they couldn't wait any longer. He adds that when they came back after the assessment to talk to him, he wasn't even in his den. Cobratail huffs out a sigh and says he must be out hunting, and will speak to him about it when he returns to camp.

Depthstar calls a clan meeting to make Swiftkit and Stonekit apprentices, and Swiftkit whimpers. Bloodkit immediately returns to his side and anxiously asks what's wrong. Swiftkit lowers his head and whispers that Maplefur should be here, and he said he would. Bloodkit blinks and says he's sure Maplefur will return to camp soon, as he wouldn't miss his ceremony.

When Swiftpaw is apprenticed, he doesn't look happy. Bloodkit looks around the clearing and immediately understands, as Maplefur isn't here.

Stonekit is about to be apprenticed when Blackstorm and Ashcloud yowl for Depthstar and race into the camp, panting. Depthstar seems to sense something is wrong and asks what it is. Blackstorm swallows before revealing that Maplefur is dead. As he speaks, Cougarfoot pads through the thorn tunnel, carrying the body on his shoulders. The clearing erupts into horrified gasps and cries, but none louder than Poisonedsap's yowl.

She screeches "No!", thrusting her way through the crowd and spitting at cats to get out of her way. Cougarfoot lowers Maplefur's body to the ground. She lets out a wail of grief and crouches, pressing her muzzle into Maplefur's fur. Bloodkit stares at the body in horror. A nasty wound splits his throat, his yellow eyes open and sightless. When Blackstorm closes his eyes with his tail, Poisonedsap spits at him not to touch him, and Blackstorm dips his head, stepping back to give her room to grieve.

Stonekit says his father's name as he stares at the body in shock, and for the first time, Bloodkit wonders if he has feelings after all. Swiftpaw is hanging his head, unable to look at it. Bloodkit hurries over and hesitates before pressing against him, saying he's so sorry. Swiftpaw doesn't respond, seeming lost in grief.

Depthstar pads over slowly and stops by the body as he asks Cougarfoot what happened. Cougarfoot sits down and stares at Maplefur as he explains that they were patrolling by the ThunderClan border and found him, just a fox length into their territory. His body was cold, and there's ThunderClan scent all over him. Swiftpaw stiffens and breathes "What?".

Poisonedsap raises her head and furiously snarls that a ThunderClan warrior killed her mate. The clearing explodes into outraged yowls. When Depthstar starts to say they have no proof of this, she furiously glares at him and says that Maplefur was found on their land and has their scent all over him, saying clearly this is the work of ThunderClan.

Depthstar narrows his eyes and asks what reason ThunderClan would have to kill Maplefur. Poisonedsap asks what reason he has not to defend his honor. She says that Maplefur died at the paws of a ThunderClan warrior, and they must attack at once. Blackstorm agrees, and Mottledpaw yowls that Maplefur must be avenged. Depthstar starts to say they won't attack ThunderClan, and Poisonedsap stands and faces him, spitting as she asks what kind of a leader he is to let cats get away with murder. She asks if he has no honor. Some cats gasp in shock that she would say such a thing to her leader, while others murmur agreement.

Depthstar is narrowing his eyes at her, his tail lashing slowly. She doesn't back down, her eyes fixed on him. After a moment, he draws in a deep breath and calmly states that she's in grief, and he understands. He says he'll confront Strawberrystar with the accusation at the next gathering.

Poisonedsap bristles and starts to protest, but Cougarfoot pads to her side and murmurs that Depthstar knows what he's doing. He promises that Maplefur will be avenged. She glares at him for a moment, and Bloodkit wonders if she'll yell at him too. But her fur flattens and she says she supposes. She leans against him and thanks him for bringing Maplefur back to camp. Cougarfoot dips his head, and after a moment, Poisonedsap looks to Depthstar, asking if they can continue with Stonekit's ceremony. Depthstar hesitates, saying surely they should hold Maplefur's vigil first, but Poisonedsap says no, and Stonekit must be made an apprentice now with his bother, as it's what Maplefur would want. Depthstar hesitates for a moment, then dips his head and says "very well".

As Stonekit is apprenticed, Hawkfeather and Dewstorm quietly groom Maplefur's body.

Stonekit interrupts his ceremony and says his father died wrongfully at the paws of a rival warrior. He wants to avenge him, and vows he will find the ThunderClan warrior who sent him to StarClan and tear him apart. He raises his chin and says that he'd like to be called Revengepaw, for he will act out his revenge, for his father.

When Bloodkit notices how fond Poisonedsap seems of Cougafoot, he thinks that surely she isn't thinking of taking another mate so soon after Maplefur's death.

#### Chapter 6

When showing Bloodpaw the ThunderClan border, Brownstripe pauses before adding that it's where Maplefur's body was found. Bloodpaw lowers his head, saddened by the mention of Swiftpaw's father, a warrior who had shown him kindness and respect. He quietly asks if ThunderClan cats really killed Maplefur.

Brownstripe twitches his ear and says Depthstar is going to bring it up at the gathering tonight. Bloodpaw asks why he hasn't brought it up yet.

Brownstripe explains that Depthstar was still gathering evidence and deciding whether or not it was a rogue. But Brownstripe says that Maplefur was found right on their side of the thunderpath, with ThunderClan scent on his fur. He thinks there's no question.

Bloodpaw thoughtfully asks if that's enough to accuse ThunderClan. Brownstripe looks at him and narrows his eyes, growling as he asks if he thinks it's acceptable for their warriors to be murdered. Bloodpaw is startled by the question and says of course not.

#### Chapter 7

After demonstrating a battle move, Revengepaw crouches and flexes his claws, narrowing his eyes as he says he can't wait to test his skills on the ThunderClan warrior who killed Maplefur. Swiftpaw looks away as he mumbles that there's no proof a ThunderClan cat did it. Revengepaw glares at him and reminds him that Maplefur was found right across the border, asking what more proof he needs. Bloodpaw agrees that he has a point. Swiftpaw shuffles his paws as he says that doesn't mean he died there.

Bloodpaw notes that he's still surprised at how quickly Poisonedsap moved on, noting that it seems like the moment Maplefur's body was found, she fell for Cougarfoot. But he supposes that she and Maplefur were never very close anyway, remembering how they'd argued over Swiftpaw and Revengepaw.

When Poisonedsap comments that this gathering should be an interesting one, Revengepaw eagerly asks if Depthstar is going to confront ThunderClan about Maplefur. She nods, eyes gleaming as she says there will finally be justice. Bloodpaw feels awkward among the family, especially talking about Maplefur's death with such eagerness.

At the gathering, Depthstar announces that several moons ago, one of their warriors, Maplefur, was found dead on ThunderClan's side of the border. As the cats begin murmuring anxiously below, Depthstar goes on to say he has considered alternatives, but there's no other explanation. He narrows his eyes at Strawberrystar, and her eyes light with disbelief as she asks if he's accusing her warriors of murder. Depthstar says yes.

Yowls of alarm and fury rise from the clans. Oaktuft says that's crazy, asking what reason they would have to kill one of ShadowClan's warriors. Depthstar says that's what he'd like to know. Bloodpaw remembers how eager Poisonedsap and Revengepaw had been for this moment. They gaze up at the leaders, looking delighted at the conflict. He understands that Poisonedsap and Revengepaw want justice for Maplefur, but wonders what Mottledface has to gain.

After further arguing, Strawberrystar angrily tells Depthstar that ThunderClan is not responsible for the death of Maplefur, asking if he understands. Depthstar hesitates before agreeing, deciding that he might have been wrong.

When Poisonedsap confronts Depthstar after the gathering, he tells her that he believes Strawberrystar's reaction shows that ThunderClan is innocent. He says a rogue must have killed Maplefur on ThunderClan territory. She spits that she doesn't believe that for a second, and Maplefur must be avenged. She says they must attack ThunderClan at once. When he refuses, she asks if they're going to just wait for more warriors to die at the paws of ThunderClan. He tells her the conversation is over.

#### Chapter 8

When Milkblaze's body is found, Brownstripe narrows his eyes and points out that Milkblaze was Maplefur's brother, rhetorically asking if it's a coincidence.

#### Chapter 10

On the way to attack ThunderClan, Revengepaw says that he'll avenge Maplefur and rip those ThunderClan cats to shreds.

After killing Hickoryroot, Revengepaw tells Bloodpaw that he could have been the warrior who killed Maplefur.

While confronting Strawberrystar, Depthstar hisses that two of his warriors have been killed by ThunderClan cats, and they will not stand for it any longer, referring to Maplefur and Milkblaze.

When the battle ends, Poisonedsap pads to Revengepaw's side and licks his ear, purring that he fought brilliantly, and Maplefur would be so proud of him. Bloodpaw wonders if Maplefur would really be proud of his son for murdering another cat.

#### Chapter 14

Depthstar tells Bloodpaw that after tonight's attack, he's fairly certain that Maplefur and Milkblaze were killed by rogues, just as Hawkfeather and Starfaith were. He meant to tell Strawberrystar this at the next gathering and apologize for their actions.

#### Chapter 17

Depthstar calls a meeting and says he's dismissed this issue long enough, noting the many rogue attacks they've suffered since last season and listing the cats they've lost, including Maplefur. He says enough is enough, and he can no longer dismiss that the clans are under attack.

When Bloodfur growls that Revengeheart has never cared for any cat and has killed before, Revengeheart looks at his paws and says that he stands by the fact that a ThunderClan warrior killed his father. He has no shame in avenging his death.

#### Chapter 29

Swiftstalker reveals to Bloodfur and Mistybreeze that as a kit, he was Poisonedsap kill his father, Maplefur. Bloodfur is shocked and recalls how Maplefur objected to Poisonedsap teaching their kits battle moves and forcing them to fight so violently. Bloodfur understands that she thought Maplefur would get in the way, knowing he'd have never let his kits go down this path.

Bloodfur asks why he didn't tell anyone, and Swiftstalker tells him Poisonedsap threatened to kill every cat in the nursery. He explains that Poisonedsap felt making allies was a better option, and tricked Maplefur and Cougarfoot into having her kits, wanting as many as possible to join in the battle against the clans.

#### Chapter 30

During the battle, Bloodfur says that Revengeheart is only fighting on Deserve's side because he thinks a clan cat killed his father, and reveals that Poisonedsap killed him. Revengeheart laughs and reveals that he knew all along, explaining that he knew a moon beforehand she was thinking of killing him, but they didn't tell Swiftstalker because they knew he was too weak to understand. Revengeheart is amused as he explains that Poisonedsap thought to frame ThunderClan by taking Maplefur's body to the border. He adds that Maplefur would have made him weak, and Cougarfoot made him stronger than Maplefur could have.

#### Chapter 31

While attacking Cougarfoot, Poisonedsap says she should have killed him, for he's worth no more than Maplefur was.

When fighting Poisonedsap, she tells Swiftstalker that he's the weakest one and is just like his father. Swiftstalker says good, and he'd rather die than turn out like her. When Poisonedsap asks if he'd kill his own mother, Swiftstalker states that he killed his father, one of the reasons she doesn't deserve to live.

When revoking his agreement with Poisonedsap, Deserve says he's seen how she treats her mates, possibly referring to Maplefur as well as Cougarfoot.

#### Chapter 32

When Bloodfur awakes in StarClan, Maplefur is among the cats judging Bloodfur. He's sitting beside Swiftstalker, his creamy fur glowing.

As Poppywing begins explaining the prophecy to Bloodfur, Maplefur steps to her side, explaining that Poisonedsap was recruiting cats from within ShadowClan to participate in she and Deserve's plot to destroy the clans. Maplefur further explains that Bloodfur was exiled because he needed to be in Deserve's Army, or he wouldn't have known when they were attacking, and never would have returned to warn the clans.

When the cats argue whether Bloodfur should go to the dark forest, Flameheart protests that Bloodfur was driven by grief and betrayal. Maplefur twitches his ear as he points out it's how most dark forest cats are made.

### Starfaith's Fate

#### Allegiances

Maplefur is listed under Allegiances as a warrior of ShadowClan with an apprentice, Diamondpaw.

## Quotes

*"What does she have to gain by lying? She's one cat. She couldn't do any harm even if she wanted to. We can't kill a cat for doing things that she didn't want to do. She was forced, just like Howlstorm and Dandeliontail. I say she deserves a chance."*

-Maplefur defending Poisoned Sap to Stormstar in *"Beyond the River",* chapter 30

*"It might take some time for them to trust you. But they'll come around, don't worry. You'll love life in ShadowClan. I'm sure you'll settle in and be a great warrior."*

-Maplefur to Poisoned Sap in *"Beyond the River",* chapter 30

*"Bloodkit, I hear what the clan says about you. I'm sure you do, too. Our paths aren't laid out at birth.... Like some cats think. It's up to us to build them."*

-Maplefur to Bloodkit in *"Shadows of Blood",* chapter 2

*"The clan may think they know who you are, and what you may become... But they don't. Not yet. You need to show them who you are."*

-Maplefur to Bloodkit in *"Shadows of Blood",* chapter 2

*"It will take time. You need to be patient. Never let anyone cause you doubt. Focus on your training, and one day you'll be one of ShadowClan's finest warriors. You'll prove your loyalty and worth to them."*

-Maplefur to Bloodkit in *"Shadows of Blood",* chapter 2

*"I told you, I don't like them fighting like that. They need to keep their claws sheathed."*

-Maplefur to Poisonedsap in *"Shadows of Blood",* chapter 3

*"No. They are kits! They are not supposed to suffer like this!"*

-Maplefur to Poisonedsap in *"Shadows of Blood",* chapter 3

*"You'll stop this cruel training of yours at once! And if anything like this happens again, I'll tell Depthstar what you're doing, and you can be a rogue again."*

-Maplefur to Poisonedsap in *"Shadows of Blood",* chapter 3

*"Of course, I will. I wouldn't miss it for all the prey in the forest."*

-Maplefur promising to be there for Swiftkit's apprentice ceremony in *"Shadows of Blood",* chapter 4

*"Nothing will keep me from seeing my kits, Poisonedsap."*

-Maplefur to Poisonedsap in *"Shadows of Blood",* chapter 4

*"How dare you do this? After all I've done for you? You were a rogue, and not just any rogue. You were a member of your brother's gang. Those cats tormented the clans! They attacked warriors and apprentices, even killed some!"*

-Maplefur to Poisonedsap in *"Shadows of Blood",* chapter 4

*"Our leader then, Stormstar, wanted to have you killed. But I thought you deserved a chance. I vouched for you. And when every cat in the clan mistrusted you, I was there, and I treated you well. And now, you tell me I can't see my own kits anymore. You wouldn't even have them if it weren't for me. You wouldn't be here if it weren't for me."*

-Maplefur to Poisonedsap in *"Shadows of Blood",* chapter 4

*"Maybe you don't, but the kits do. I love them, and you can't stop me."*

-Maplefur to Poisonedsap when she says she doesn't need him in *"Shadows of Blood",* chapter 4

*"You were never a good cat! You're just like your brother! A cruel, worthless rogue!"*

-Maplefur to Poisonedsap in *"Shadows of Blood",* chapter 4

*"Those kits will never be like you! They're going to be loyal clan warriors!"*

-Maplefur to Poisonedsap in *"Shadows of Blood",* chapter 4

## Gallery

### AMV Shots

Maplefur on The Other Side MAP call cardMaplefur on The Other Side MAP call card (No text)Poisonedsap and Maplefur arguingMaplefurMaplefur in the Grow For Me spoof PMVMaplefur in the Grow For Me spoof PMVMaplefur in the Grow For Me spoof PMVMaplefur in the Grow For Me spoof PMVMaplefur in the Grow For Me spoof PMVMaplefur in the Grow For Me spoof PMVMaplefur in the Grow For Me spoof PMVMaplefur in the Grow For Me spoof PMVMaplefur in the Grow For Me spoof PMVMaplefur in the Grow For Me spoof PMVMaplefur in the Grow For Me spoof PMVMaplefur in the Grow For Me spoof PMVMaplefur in the Grow For Me spoof PMV
### Other

Maplefur button / sticker designMaplefur's death, Leonid Nasyrov style

## Character Development and Origins

When I was 12 or 13, after deciding that Revengeheart and Swiftstalker would be brothers, they needed parents. I gave them an ambitious, bloodthirsty mother, Poisonedsap, and a kind father named Maplefur.

Like in Shadows of Blood, Poisonedsap feels that he's too soft and refuses to let him see the kits. Revengekit is upset by this, as he has to admit he liked Maplefur a lot more than Poisonedsap.

Poisonedsap awakes one night to find Maplefur seeing the kits in secret and is furious. However she calms herself and asks to talk to Maplefur alone in the forest. Swiftkit follows and sees her kill him.

I wrote the first few chapters of this when I was 12 or 13, however unfortunately it was lost. I do recall that as Poisonedsap reveals her true intentions to Maplefur, she pins him, and it's very creepy, as she tells it like a bedtime story and says good night before she kills him.

When I made Maplefur and Poisonedsap the parents of Swiftstalker and Revengeheart, I never thought about how they look nothing alike. At one point, I considered changing Swiftstalker's design to be a cream tabby and white, so that he bore resemblance to Maplefur, but loved his black and white design too much to change it.

## Trivia

* Maplefur's name and design were inspired by *Tim Horton's* maple dip donuts.