With clumps of fresh moss on their backs, the two cats trekked to the cave exit.
“We’ll let the others know of the gathering spot,” Beetail meowed with a swish of his scarred tail. “Do you remember the landmarks nearby?”
“There was… The sharpest rock we’ve seen…”
“And?”
“......”
“Stars above,” His mentor sighed. “Yes, we saw a sharp rock… But more importantly, we followed a small stream that nurtured the growth of moss. It’s to the left of the stream that leads to the Moon Falls.”
The apprentice nodded halfheartedly. He usually didn’t mind his apprentice duties, but… StarClan! He wished he wasn’t in this tight cave.
“Being observant of your territory is an important skill, Beaverpaw.”
“I know…”
“Then look at me and pay attention.”
“But I want to be out there!” He imagined the wind in his fur and his claws sinking into trespassers. “This is boring! When we were on the journey, we hunted eagles! Fought a wolf pack! We could be patrolling our territory now, driving out any foxes–”
“Those were all dangerous! Do you not remember our companions who died!?”
“I-I’m not saying we have to go back…” The apprentice flattened his ears. “It’s just… moss. Brushpaw’s out there hunting…”
The senior warrior’s tail twitched. He wanted to cuff the ears of this mousebrained apprentice, but he heaved a sigh instead.
“Beaverpaw,” He meowed firmly. “Sometimes a warrior must take on duties they may not find fun. Life during the journey was full of fighting, but that’s not all there is to being a warrior. We must provide for our clan, too.”
“As you know, hunting prey gives our clanmates food. It’s not as flashy, but gathering moss gives our clanmates warmth and a good night’s rest.”
“But I can contribute in other ways—“
“You wouldn’t want Badgerkit to sleep on the floor, would you?”
The apprentice’s eyes widened with guilt, and he ducked his head in apology. “You’re… right. Sorry. I was being mousebrained. I’ll be more attentive next time.”
The senior warrior nodded and continued walking back to camp.
“Good,” He said. “If you show some improvement, I’ll take you to the Gathering; there’ll be new cats to meet. Windstar said it was this halfmoon.”
“Really?”
“Only if you show some improvement. We have another batch of moss to gather, and tomorrow another survey in these caves.”
“Ah,” The apprentice shook the disappointment off his pelt. “O-Of course, Beetail. I’ll do my best.”
Moss was gathered.
Beetail and Beaverpaw's relationship remains stiff.
