#hope's rest clowder

[theanoninyourinbox]

Got me a lil writers block on the Skyclan bit sooooooo have some background cats from the Hope's Rest Clowder

Yardstick is a former Bloodclan cat, Quills is an albino chimera, Shark can and will fight a ho, and Banter will be right behind her

[theanoninyourinbox]

RETURN OF THE NEW LONGSTAR AU - THREE TO TANGO

Longstar Au – Three Stars Rising, One Star Falling

Inbetween Books

Spiderleg is bullied into the Healer’s den by Darkmoon, and is revealed to be In The Family Way.  He refuses to name the Sire to the clan at large - citing Queen’s Rights - and entrusts the name to Sootfur, who joined the Elders as a Historian after his severe injuries fighting the badgers. Toadkit and Rosekit are adorable, but Spiderleg often leaves them in the Nursery with the Queens.  Sootfur visits often enough that the kits see him as their father.

Charkit of Sorreltail’s litter is discovered to have only three feet – Brackenfur suggests naming her Cinder but Sorreltail refuses, wanting her kitten to have her own future, not weighed down by her aunt’s sacrifice.  Her striking resemblance to the Healer, and her similar leg scenario, still weighs upon the kit, who works with Darkmoon and a supportive Cloudtail to exercise and navigate life.

On a border patrol, Whitewing finds an injured tom named Birch, and carries him back to camp.  He recovers from his (somewhat embarrassing) fall from a tree, and joins Thunderclan.  He brings tales of his birth family – The Sisters – and Longstar is curious but cautious about the group.

Frostfoot semi-retires to become a historian and tactician, and Whitestorm informs Longstar of his intention to retire as well.  Longstar despairs at choosing a new Deputy, and falls into a restless sleep after Flamewish drags him into their nest.  He dreams of the old Thunderclan camp, watches it shift into the new camp, watches it float and crumble in a dark sky.  Suddenly, a bright star flares, and the constellations of Silverpelt spring to life.  The star warps into a great cat, one half of their face spilling nebulas and colors, that cradles the clan back into a whole.  He wakes, knowing exactly who to name. The next day, Longstar calls a meeting, and announces Whitestorm’s retirement.  Longstar calms the clan, calling forth a cat who has cared for Thunderclan and for the connections that Thunderclan has created within their allied clans.  He calls forth Brightheart to become Deputy.  Brightheart is shocked but delighted, Cloudtail and Daisy dance around their mate, and their kits crow gleefully.

Soon after, Crowfeather comes over to visit Swiftpool.  He shares the news that his foster sister Nightcloud and her mate Gorseflicker are now parents to three kits – Breezekit, a little black tom; Locustkit, a black and orange tortie molly; and Eveningkit, a grey and golden molly.  Swiftpool notes that Hopfoot will have plenty of time to spoil his grandkits now that he’s retired.  Crowfeather jokes that Gorseflicker cried over his kits so hard he was kicked out of the Nursery by Nightcloud, and Swiftpool laughs so hard she goes into labor.

By nightfall, three more kits have been born.  Crowfeather names Jaykit after the brilliant blue of his eyes, Swiftpool names Hollykit after her spiky fur, and Lionkit is named for his loud cries.  As the kits grow, Lionkit is noted to have the shorter legs like his Granduncle Fireheart.  Jaykit is blind, but already uses his senses to navigate fairly well.  And Hollykit is anxious and easily moved to emotion by others. They are supported wholeheartedly by their family and clan.  

In Windclan, Breezekit plays with Whitetail’s kits Heatherkit and Galekit.  Locustkit and Eveningkit escape camp one night and discover a series of tunnels.  Mudstar is delighted to refound the Tunneler Role, with Locustkit loudly declaring that she wants to be one.

Leopardstar watches her clan grow, watches Hawkfrost befriend the local otters, watches Mistyfoot teach the next generation how to fish in these new waters.  She is determined to do better – to be better – and a starry-coated cat silently agrees.  Stonefur remains her unseen shadow for the rest of her days.

Blackstar and Russetfur, Leader and Deputy, chosen siblings, peer into the Nursery.  Tawnypelt and Rowanclaw are curled around three new Shadowclanners.  A golden tom – Goldenkit – a fiery orange tom – Emberkit – and a creamy molly – Dawnkit.  All the promise of a new morning, not weighed down by the cloying shadows of their grandfather.

Outside of the clans, Sol seethes.  He still has some of the power the Rotten Storm bestowed upon him, but knows instinctively that the day he uses the last of it, is the day he loses his voice forever.  In his wanderings, he comes across a mysterious old badger, who warns him that unless he changes his ways, unless he gives up on vengeance against the clans, that he will suffer in ways he could never imagine.  Sol glares at the beast, but his eyes catch on a berry juice mural of the moon overtaking the sun, and leaves with a new plan in mind.  Midnight scoffs at the foolish tom, knowing that no matter what he does, his waning power will strip him of everything he holds dear…

Sandstorm and her kittypet friend Millie make it to the Hope’s Rest Clowder, and Sandstorm does not take the news of the clans moving very well.  Thankfully, Darkstripe gives them basic directions to the mountains, and the pair of friends head off.  The Clowder’s friendly twoleg healer watches the exchange in interest. She’s convinced that these cats are intelligent, and vows to protect them as best she can.

Apprentice Adventures

On the day of their apprenticeships, Hollypaw chooses to become a Warrior, and is apprenticed to Ashfur He promises to help her grow into her own pelt, and Hollypaw nervously but proudly accepts.  Jaypaw wants to be a Hunter/Tracker, and is assigned to Brightheart and Snowthorn.  He’s giddy with relief, having doubts that he would be allowed to be anything but a Support Role.  Lionpaw has already been nearly living in the Healer’s Den, so it’s no surprise that she wants to join their ranks. His uncle and granduncle welcome him cheerily.

At the next Gathering, Jaypaw’s keen ears hear Mousepaw flirting with Riverclan apprentice Minnowpaw, and muses to Hollypaw that there may be a new cross-clan couple.  The Leaders are interrupted by a commotion – Coldlight screeches SANDSTORM?!?!?!?  Longstar leaps down and the whole of Thunderclan greets the long-missing molly.  She introduces Millie as a potential clanmate, and Graystripe immediately starts flushing and stammering.  Millie is charmed by the fluffy fool, and asks him to escort her to camp.  Coldlight pulls Sandstorm to the side as soon as they get in eyesight of camp, and has a private conversation with his long-time crush.  She asks for time to process his love confession, but assures him that no matter what, he will always be her friend.

The next morning, Sandstorm gathers up Longstar, Flamewish, and their many kits, and tells them of a dream she had.  A starry cat who identified himself as Micah had given her a Prophecy – Three of thine leaders kin shalt be gifted by the Stars, and They shall spark a great Light that shall Burn Back the Clawing Dark.  He had vanished before Sandstorm could pin him down and get an explanation, and freaked out Millie quite a bit. 

The group tries to figure out who it is, ruling out Cloudtail early to his annoyance and everyone else’s amusement.  Swiftpool points out her recent litter, and Fireheart notes that Lionpaw always seems to know where another cat is hurting. The apprentices are gathered, and after some questioning, Jaypaw admits to sometimes being in his sibling’s dreams. Hollypaw realizes that the last time she got into a fight (against a rather pissed off chicken that escaped the Horseplace) she hadn’t gotten heavily injured when it definitely pecked her hard enough to draw blood.  But when she stepped on a thorn she was bleeding?  Lionpaw easily talks about feeling other’s pain, but had thought he was just very empathetic?  Flamewish calls for Yellowfang, who pops in and confirms that Something Is Up.  The siblings are Star-Blessed, but not to let it get to their heads. The old molly scoffs, and says that Micah is an old Skyclan spirit, and had a noted soft spot for kits, so meant no harm.

The siblings are shaken, but do their best to keep on going.  Lionpaw finds his connection to Starclan when Jaypaw and Breezepaw fall into a hole during the Peacetime Competition and he has a Vision of their distress.  Jaypaw works hard with Brightheart and Snowthorn, testing his dreamwalking limits on his siblings – with permission of course.  Hollypaw finds herself more confident, knowing that the stars have a place just for her, and Ashfur praises her for starting to stretch herself.  She still finds herself easily shaken, but discovers a love of plants, leading to some Herbalist training.

However, the shadows of Miretrees are reaching out…

After a particularly bad day, Hollypaw wakes in a strange place.  It’s a piece of the border by the Lake, but the sun is low, and there’s the faint smell of blood and fur in the air.  A large brown tabby appears, his chest covered in leaves and flowers.  He asks her of her woes, and Hollypaw mutters about feeling unappreciated sometimes.  He proclaims that he will teach her to be a Great Warrior, but Hollypaw laughs – Ashfur is a great mentor, how could you, a random primping prettyboy, do any better than him?  She laughs herself awake, and Brambleclaw throws a massive tantrum in the Dark Forest.

While out hunting, Charpaw falls out of a tree, injuring her footless hind leg. Jaypaw helps her back to camp, and verbally tears the ears off of Sootfur for suggesting she retire to be an Elder or Support role, stop projecting!! Just because you couldn’t handle your business doesn’t mean that Charpaw can’t handle hers!!!  Brightheart has to hold him back but does NOT make him apologize.  Lionpaw states that even if Charpaw was, I don’t know, Cinderpelt’s reincarnation, it wouldn’t matter!  Darkmoon is touched by the brothers being so protective, but has to reassure Charpaw that no, Lionpaw was using a hypothetical.

Soon after, Millie gives birth to three more kits – Blossom, Briar, and Bumble.  Graystripe is startled but delighted – he had no idea she was pregnant – but takes to fatherhood again with joy and zeal.

At the next Gathering, Riverclan calls for aid – a bunch of twolegs have half-invaded their territory.  Jaypaw and Hollypaw sneak off to take a look, but are caught by Uncle Hawkfrost and his otter friends.  Hawkfrost scolds them officially, but lets them take a look at the tottering twoleg kits, and introduces Weed and Log, his otter pals.  The pair of apprentices get in trouble for sneaking out, but think that meeting the strange river dwellers was worth it.  Back at camp, Lionpaw dreams of an orange-and white cat failing to outrun the rising waters in a tunnel, and a hairless cat throws him out of sleep.  Somewhere else in camp, Sandstorm and Coldlight become mates.

Some time later, Locustpaw goes missing.  Jaypaw and Lionpaw join in the search, and along with Breezepaw, find her stuck in the tunnels.  As the rain makes the waters rise, Lionpaw remembers his dreams, and leads the groups to safety.  Locustpaw’s tail must be partially amputated, but she lives to dig another day.

Stormfur and Brook show up at Thunderclan camp, asking for aid.  Longstar agrees, and Foxflight gets the whole Journey gang back together, and drags her niece and nephews along.  Crowfeather brings Breezepaw and Galepaw to help – an accomplished hunter and a promising healer.  The group reunites with Feathertail, and she is delighted to meet some of her friend’s new families and hear about the rest.  She is gleeful at the thought of her half-siblings, but sad she won’t meet them in person.  Jaypaw wonders if he could pull them into one dream, but decides to just poke at Graystripe to bring his family for a visit sometime.  Lionpaw and Galepaw pester Feathertail for what helps with her back, and she happily gives them all the details.

After running off the intruders, the three siblings and Crowfeather have a bonding moment.  It is somewhat interrupted by Yellowfang and Tallstar’s spirits showing up, but they only confirm that yes, the siblings ARE Star-blessed, and to watch out for the Miretrees residents showing up, as Snowfur caught her ex-mate lurking around the borders of Starclan.

After a tearful goodbye, the group settle back into their clans.  Hollypaw once more dreams of the strange lake scene, but this time there are two brown tabbies.  The larger one begins to speak, but Hollypaw has heard enough stories about the death of Tiger”star” to recognize the injury – even half hidden by reeds and leaves – and screams for her Gran-Gran Yellowfang.  She flings awake, tumbling into Charpaw and Jaypaw, and Lionpaw bustles in to see what’s wrong.  She sputters out what happened, and Lionpaw runs for Darkmoon and Fireheart.  A confused Charpaw comforts her friend, as Jaypaw stomps around angrily.  Fireheart clears them out of the den, and makes them all sleep in the Hearer’s Den, for added protection.  Even with Fireheart assuring that the dark goes for everyone, Hollypaw wonders…did they come after me because I’m the weakest one?

And a seed of doubt is planted.

The Plot Thickens and The Sun Vanishes

Some time later, SOMEONE is trying to get Windclan and Thunderclan fighting.  It doesn’t work, but Mudstar asks that they spend a week out of contact, to see if both sides scent the same intruder.  Crowfeather bids his family a teary farewell, and Swiftpool clings sadly to her sister and Shrewleg for a while.  One night, Berrynose spots what he SWEARS is a Literal Lion, no, really, I am Not JOKING!!!  At the end of the week, Fireheart, Darkmoon, and Lionpaw go to gather herbs, and see a strange cat with a mane.  The tom loudly declares that he will be blocking out the sun tomorrow, and bolts before Darkmoon and Fireheart can catch him.  Fireheart moans about aching joints, and Darkmoon carries him back to camp, with Lionpaw telling Berrynose No That Was Not A Lion Just A Weirdo.

And then some of Windclan’s young bucks start a fight with a Thunderclan patrol.  Both clans send out everyone to calm the fight, and a Shadowclan patrol shows up, and Riverclan comes to yell at people.

And the ginger and black tom watches.

And the sun goes out.

Chaos ensues, everyone scrambling to figure out what’s happening.  The stranger cuts in front of Blackstar, who was leading the patrol, and Speaks.  The Shadowclan leader calls for his clan to follow him home, and they depart.  And a few nights later, Tawnypelt comes to camp with terrible news.  Blackstar, under the influence of the stranger Sol, has turned his back on Starclan.  There is something missing in his eyes, a blankness that reminds her of a dying cat.  He tried to put her apprentice-age kits into their adult roles, and thus she seeks shelter with them.  An appalled Longstar agrees, and Goldenpaw, Emberpaw, and Dawnpaw are welcomed into the apprentice den.  Jaypaw declares that it’s too crowded, which gives Longstar an idea.

The next morning, he promotes Hollypaw, Jaypaw, and Charpaw to their adult names.  Hollypaw becomes Hollywish, for her bright ideas for the future, and in honor of her beloved grandmother.  Flamewish is delighted at the surprise, and a jubilant Hollywish practically bounces in place.  Jaypaw is named Jaywhisker, for his sharp senses and even sharper barbs to the deserving.  Brightheart cries a little as her first apprentice is promoted, and Jaywhisker is a little overwhelmed with all the cheering.  And Charpaw is named Charheart, for her loving spirit and determination to never give up.  Charheart is embraced by her family, and beams delightedly.  Shortly after, Flyshadow comes running from the Healer’s den ASHFUR I’M PREGNANT!!! Whitewing also announces that she’s pregnant the next day! The clan is full of life and joy!

The Skies Grow Cloudy

But it doesn’t last.  Millie and Briarkit become ill, and it soon begins to spread.  Lionpaw and Emberpaw think it’s related to Sol – Riverclan has noticed dying fish, and Windclan has seen birds falling from the sky.  So the Thunderclan siblings and the Shadowclan siblings formulate a plan.

Emberpaw and Jaypaw decide to fake a sign, having a tree fall in front of Sol and Blackstar.  Lionpaw thinks that faking a sign might be sacrilege, but hopes that the Stars are forgiving of a lie to free a clan.  Hollywish and Dawnpaw leverage the tree down, and Goldenpaw makes ghostly noises…that are soon joined by Runningnose and Raggedstar.  The blankness goes out of Blackstar’s eyes, and he turns on Sol with all the fury of the blazing sun.  Sol flees, cursing the clans again, and Shadowclan is restored.  The newfound friends bid farewell, promising to stay in touch.

In Thunderclan camp, Longstar loses a life to the illness, prompting Jaywhisker to dreamwalk Kestrelpaw the Windclan Healer’s apprentice.  Lionpaw goes to gather the precious catmint, and nearly walks in on Breezepaw, Heatherpaw, and Antpaw having relationship drama.  He sneaks by, and returns triumphant.  At the next Half Moon ceremony, he is promoted to Lionblossom, for his ability to make hope blossom wherever he goes.

And then a fire breaks out.

The trio are trapped on one side of the fire, and as Swiftpool and Foxflight maneuver a branch to help them, the ginger and black shape of Sol tries to stop them.  The mollies beat the stuffing out of him easily, and he flees.  Lionblossom notes that Sol’s tail might be burnt, judging by the pain that Lionblossom feels.  Everyone reunites, with Ashfur having a nasty burn on his flanks, but all alive.

While out playing, Briarkit is attacked by a snake.  Honeyfern bravely leaps in the way and is bitten on the face.  Lionblossom, in just as much agony as she is, makes the swift but painful decision to remove the bitten eye.  Fireheart and Darkmoon arrive on the scene to a passed out Honeyfern and Lionblossom, and a screaming Briarkit.  After some emergency treatment, Honeyfern is stabilized, and Lionblossom wakes up mortified.  Berrynose and Poppyfrost are frantic, and when Honeyfern wakes, they take turns at her side.  Darkmoon notes that Honeyfern will most likely never hear out of her right ear, and will certainly never bear kits.  She and Berrynose begin to mourn, but Poppyfrost offers to be their surrogate.

A few days later, the newly named Breezepelt and Heathertail come to camp – they saw Sol leaving Windclan prey of Thunderclan land, and would you like to go Get Him?  A patrol is sent, and Foxflight is kept from finishing the beating she started earlier by the return of PURDY!?! She escorts the old tom to camp, and begs her father to let Gramps Purdy stay, plllleeeeaaassseee???  Longstar snorts at the obvious manipulation, but allows it.  Sol is locked in the Healer’s Den, and seems to be cooperative.

At the next Gathering, Longstar defends his choice to not kill the cat, he must be judged by Starclan.  The other leaders agree, Blackstar very brusque and standoffishly, but all seems to be going well.

Then Hollywish has to go into the Healer’s Den.

And Sol says his Last Word.

R U N

The light goes out of Hollywish’s eyes, and she bolts for the tunnels.  Jaywhisker hears his sister’s harsh breathing, and tears after her, Charheart and Lionblossom in hot pursuit.

Hollywish enters the tunnels and

                                                   The

                                                          Rocks

                                                                     Fall

(Atop the stones, Brambleclaw gives a baleful grin)

Lionblossom screams in pain, Jaywhisker paws at the rocks, and Charheart yowls for aid.

In the Healer’s Den, Sol coughs out pieces of his tongue, ashy and rotten.

And he laughs and laughs and laughs.

And in the Nursery, Whitewing and Flyshadow huddle around the kits, who sleep peacefully.

TO BE CONTINUED

[theanoninyourinbox]

Skyclan's Rescue

Or

The Scorching Sun and the Storming Rot

In the Recent Past

Skystar, once the too-proud leader and Founder of Skyclan, looks down from the edge of Starclan upon the gorge.  Skywatcher is laying in the sun, blind eyes content and peaceful next to a kittypet tortoiseshell queen.  Kits play with balls of moss, warriors bring prey to their elders, and queens share tongues with collared kittypets.

Disgusting.

How DARE Starclan do this to HIS Clan!  First, they curse Skyclan’s tree to rot, then BANISH the BEST CLAN in the Territories, and now?! Now it’s all the dregs of felinehood – kittypets and loners, playing at being HIS CLAN because Starclan thought it was AMUSING!?!  HOW DARE THEY!!!

Skyclan should be regimented and only Clanblood!  Kits should be learning to hunt already!  Elders should be working until their appointed deaths! Queens should be subservient to their leader, not BE ONE!! Warriors should be KILLING these DUNGFACED KITTYPETS!!!!!  This is NOT HIS Skyclan, not a Proper Skyclan…if that blasted brother of his hadn’t stepped in, if those foolish Leaders hadn’t stepped in, if the STARS BE BLASTED Spirits hadn’t stepped in-

He tore at the ground beneath him in fury, hackles bristling and spittle flying as he raged.  Not even his mate, his beautiful malicious Star Flower, could understand him…she wanted power, oh how she wanted it all, but she was unwilling to endanger the power that Starclan gave their residents…but what was this power if his legacy was so muddled?

Skystar sighed, and turned his gaze from the ABOMINATION of a Clan the Stars wanted, but a flash of ginger caught his eye.  He turned back curiously – this was a familiar figure.  The ragged cat often prowled the edge of the territory, staring hatefully at the so-called Leafstar.  Skystar leaned in, hearing the tom rail against the group, clawing the turf as he screamed.  How DARE they reject him – how DARE that MOLLY be in charge – how DARE they banish him for his schemes!!  HE should be leader, pampered and protected!  He, Harry, should be the one in control!

Oh, now this is promising…

Skystar saw himself, in the days after the Spirits descended – powerless, but deserving of all he wished.  Now this cat – Half-Clanblooded at least – this cat had PROMISE.  So Skystar leapt, bounding through a suddenly storming sky, and appeared before the maned cat.

I can give you power, said Skystar, I can give you that and more.  All you have to do is get rid of that False Leader, and that Old Fool.  I am Skystar, and together, we will turn these lands into the most powerful Clan the world will ever see!  Harry, at first wildly afraid of the Literal Ghost that dropped from the stormclouds, smirked.  How could a dead cat give me anything?  Skystar’s face broke into a vicious grin – I will give your clever words Power, to ensnare and beguile and terrify – just take my paw. 

Harry hesitated for only a moment before agreeing, and extended a paw.  Skystar took it, and the wind howled around them, thunder rumbling a warning.  The shadows surged as rain whipped around them, stop stop STOP!

Behold, intoned Skystar, the Sun who rules the Skies!  Behold SOL!  (his back bulged with eyes, starless and sightless, a Geist of wild power being born of pettiness and hate) Harry – no, Sol - grinned maniacally, with a golden glow hidden behind his teeth.  He knew JUST who to talk to, just who to…Recruit…to take over the Clan…and now they All would Listen…

And in Starclan, Grey Wing looked down in horror.  Oh brother, what have you done?

The Journey to the Gorge and The Crisis

The combined group of Clowder and Clan cats set out on a sunny Newleaf morning.  Maguyver, as the one with the most Patrolling and Scouting experience, leads the group.  Frostfur and Hollowback, the most mobile of the Clan Elders, are helped along by a prospective Seer named Echo.  Loudbelly, who has gone nearly blind, is guided by Vespa, whose blindness has never stopped her before, and the hearty Bagel.  Yewtail leans heavily on the massive tom Hassle, and Mudfur keeps company with Lavinia, a pretty young molly who wants to be a Healer, and Pasqual, who hides shyly behind Lavinia most of the time. Mutter the Scout keeps the younger cats Gorgon, Spatter, and Jangle in line.  They make their way past Twolegs and thunderpaths, through old forests and over winding waters.  And within a remarkable amount of time, the Rescue Patrol has arrived at the edge of a marked territory.  Strangely, the sky is cloudy and the air heavy.  The group settles into a hollow log for the night, and the next morning Mutter scouts ahead. 

They return with news – there IS a group of cats in the Gorge ahead, but something is terribly wrong.  There are cats forcing Elders to clean the camp, and kits barely old enough to eat solids are picking the prey clean! Queens are being intimidated by brutes, and the Rogues – they MUST be Rogues – are led by a ginger, brown and white Tom.  Everyone is shocked and horrified – Frostfur moans at the thought of kittens in danger, and Bagel has to hold Loudbelly back from charging over and fighting the Rogues.  Macguyver asks Echo, who has the clearest Visions of Skyclan, who the Leader was.  She pauses, then points up to a nearby tree.  Her, she says, and a mottled tortie drops from the branches, followed by a ginger tom and several other cats, all collared or harnessed. 

The tortie glares at the Rescue Patrol – who are you, and how do you know me?  Did Sol send you!?  Macguyver steps in – no, Starclan sent us!  Mudfur joins him, then Frostfur and Echo.  We Saw you were in danger, Echo intones, and have come to offer our aid.  Mudfur explains that he and the other Elders are from the Clans, and that they came to help of their own volition.  The Tortie rears back, and looks over the group, finally seeing the Elders for what they were.  Hope glinting in her eyes, she introduces herself as Leafdapple, and after calling over her allies, tells them what’s happened.

She had met Skywatcher, who had been gathering cats to form a Clan.  She had become his right-paw cat, a deputy in all but name, as Skywatcher has refused to be named Leader.  After some time, a tom named Harry had asked to join.  They accepted him, but quickly understood something was wrong.  He was a decent hunter, and somewhat interested in herbs, but would consistently try to sabotage other cats.  He had led clanmates into rats and dogs, stolen prey from under the paws of others, and probably would have poisoned someone if not caught.  But he was clever with his words, and it took him kitnapping Leafdapple litter, to “save” them, for him to be banished.  But he had returned…changed somehow. 

He had a group of Rogues and Loners behind him, all either blank-eyed or bloodthirsty, and had overrun camp.  The kits had been taken, and their few elders forced into work.  Leafdapple and her Daylight Warriors – kittypets who returned to their homes at night – had escaped…but they’d lost several Warriors.  Skywatcher had been taken by some of the Rogues, and Sol, as he called himself now, paid them in prey that SHOULD have been feeding the Queens, kits, and Elders.  And every time the survivors planned some rescue or communication, he saw them coming!  They’d nearly lost several cats, and had been begging the stars for help.  But, Leafdapple sniffled, she never expected help to come after this long.  Had thought they had been forgotten.

And a voice rings out from above.

We did not forget you.

All look up, and a swirl of stars descend, and six starry cats materialize.  Willowpelt greets the Hope Clowder cats, and then introduces herself and the other Starclan cats to the stunned Skyclan cats.  Here, she says, is Cloudstar, who ruled Skyclan when it was wrongly Banished. This is Bumble and Turtle Tail, who helped found Thunderclan and redeem Skyclan in its early days.  And these are Jagged Peak and Grey Wing, who helped found all the Clans, with their kindness and cleverness.  I am Willowpelt of Thunderclan, and we know what has happened here – and we together, living and beyond, will defeat Sol.

And everyone has Reactions to this.  Mudfur and the Clan cats nod sagely, with Frostfur delighted to meet the first Crafter.  The Hope’s Rest Clowder cats are bouncing around, knowing Willowpelt from her frequent visits to the Clowder.  And the Skyclan cats are…wary.  Hopeful, but everything that has happened has made them hardened to any hope that comes.  Grey Wing apologizes to Skyclan for taking so long, and for not stopping Sol from gaining his Cursed Blessing of controlling others with his words, but that the Storming Rot - a cat he once called brother but is now a Stargeist - had been blocking them from helping, but the Clan cats and Clowder cats had essentially carried them here.  He then offers blessings to the cats – hiding them from the Stargeist and enhancing their senses until Sol and the Abomination are defeated, and Leafdapple is given her nine lives officially.  Leafdapple is elbowed by Billystorm, and she agrees, with stars in her eyes and hope in her heart.

Loudbelly asks that if he is blessed, that he be given the joints and senses of his youth, that he might rescue the prisoners.  The other Elders agree, with Hollowback noting that from Leafdapple’s description, Modern Skyclan has only Warriors, Queens, and Elders – no Camp Guards or Crafters or Herbalists or even a Healer, and simply asks for enough time to pass on his crafts, which the other Elders agree with as well.  Bumble and Jagged Peak are all for this.

The air smells of ozone and fresh snow, of mossy stones, of petrichor and heathered fields; the air shines like Silverpelt on moonless nights; and the air flexes like claws in battle.  The elders stretch and twist, like year-aged cats instead of well-lived elders.  Vespa notes that she can hear even farther than before, and Spatter leaps up a tall tree in only a few seconds.  Leafdapple laughs as her Daylight warriors bounce about like apprentices.  Turtle Tail promises her that she will receive her lives after they rescue Skywatcher, as he deserves to see his Clan get the Leader it deserves.

And as the Starclan Cats return to the skies, the living begin to plan.

The Rescue

The next day, Frostfur wanders into a Rogue patrol, and feigns that she had been looking for a place to bring her grandkits to live.  She toddles through camp, counting the prisoners, the blank-eyed and controlled, and the loyal Rogues.  She never sees Sol, and leaves the Rogues with seemingly giddy promises to return with her family.  The best lies are honesty, and she WILL be bringing cats she calls family there.  The skies are a little clearer, and in the shadows, something twists unhappily.

Mudfur, Lavinia, Pasqual, and Echo start gathering herbs for the coming skirmishes.  Pasqual and Lavinia are obviously mates, but had no issues in the Clowder.  Mudfur admits to having had a mate before becoming a Healer, and that another Oracular Healer, Fireheart, had been working behind the scenes to make it that any Healer might take a mate.  Echo, while preparing cobwebs, notes that she has never wanted a romantic relationship, and is assured that such a thing is absolutely fine.

Mutter and Harveymoon scout out where Skywatcher is kept – a small Twoleg nest kept by a Rogue named Dodger and his group.  Late that night, Hollowback and Leafdapple sneak in while Maguyver and Hassle bother Dodger out front with Sharpclaw and Ebonyclaw.  Skywatcher wakes to Leafdapple carrying him out, with Hollowback watching her tail.  A clattering from a Twoleg Thing (which Macguyver calls a trash can) sends the distraction cats hurtling back to the makeshift camp, and the Skyclan cats welcome their old friend back.  The full moon is but two nights away, and then Skywatcher will see his protégé become the Leader he Foresaw.  The clouds let the sky peak through, and the air is lighter with the promises of new life.

The next morning, Yewtail, Hollowback, Bagel, and Gorgon start setting up traps for the Rogues.  The invaders out to hunt found themselves stuck in pits, caught up in sticky honey and chased by bees, and every attempt at hunting thwarted.  This went on as the time until the full moon came. The day of the full moon, Macguyver, Hassle, and Bagel stroll up to the captured camp, and loudly demand that Sol meet with them.  The lanky Heretic oozes over, and Macguyver proclaims that he is represents the leader of a Clowder that wants the Gorge.  Hassle quietly states that unless Sol meets with them the next morning, that the Clowder will attack.  Bagel giddily purrs that maybe Sol can talk their leader into sharing instead of conquest.  Sol sneers, and agrees, but demands the meeting be at a particular clearing.  The deal is made, and the three cats trot off, content that the next step of the plan is complete.

The night came, and the free Skyclan cats and the Rescue Patrol gathered in a clearing.  The sky was, for once, clear of the strange clouds that gathered, and the moon and stars shone clearly. Leafdapple and Skywatcher sit together, and Echo calls upon Starclan to bless this Leader with nine lives, and the Wisdom of the Stars to guide Starclan.  The skies glitter and gleam, and six familiar Starclan spirits descend, followed by three unfamiliar spirits, that wait farther back from the rest.  The other living cats watch in awe and wonder.

Nine Lives and Three Precedents

Cloudstar greets Leafdapple and Skywatcher, thanking the molly for her care and the Elder for his enduring faith in them.  He then gives Leafdapple her first life, for having Enduring Faith in her Clan, the Stars, and herself.  Willowpelt rubs her head companionably against Leafdapple’s shoulder and gives her a life for Second Chances. Jagged Peak makes her laugh at a particularly bad pun (don’t worry, your reign won’t be a Cat-astrophe!) and gives her a life for Good Humor In Bad Times. Turtle Tail compliments her cunning, and gives her a life for Defending The Defenseless. Bumble smiles sweetly and gives her a life for Finding Joy In The Small Things. And Grey Wing approaches, I’m so proud of you, keeping your Clan as safe as you could in these times; he bestows a life for Knowing When To Ask For Aid.  And then he beckons the three spirits forward.

Three cat spirits wearing kittypet collars.

A grey tipped molly steps forward, introducing herself as Smoke.  Her face twists sadly, as she tells of loving a clan cat who rejected her, and dying to protect her kit.  Leafdapple apologizes for her having to go through such events, and Smoke smiles sadly.  My son is happy now, with a better father than his sire ever could have been.  Smoke then gives Leafdapple a life for Love and Affection, giving Billystorm a side-glance and a smile.  He flushes, and several cats break the solemn air with hoots, cackles, and coos.

The next cat steps forward, introducing himself as Jake.  He speaks of having an adventure with a Clan Cat, and falling in love with him.  Even after they were parted, he remembered the strength and faith of that tom.  He sighs, and remarks that his feelings for a cat he would never see again kept him from having any other relationships.  Jake steps forward, and gives Leafdapple a life for Knowing When To Let Go, and hopes that she will be a better parent than he was in life.

The last cat steps up, a tortoiseshell as well, but with a flat face.  I was named Wishkit at my birth, but was known as Nutmeg for the rest of my days. I was born a Clan Cat, lived as a Kittypet, and bore Kittypets, Clan Cats, and Hopeful Cats.  I give you your final life for Balance and Adaptability – may you find a way no matter the obstacles.  Welcome, Leafstar. Leafstar! The cry is raised, by the living and the dead.  Leafstar! LEAFSTAR!! LEAFSTAR!!!

(elsewhere, the Stargeist shakes and writhes, its eyes multiplying and mind fracturing.  something is wrong.  something has gone terribly wrong)

The Confrontation

The dawn comes, and Sol approaches the meeting grounds, his loyal Rogues at his side.  He left the controlled behind to guard the camp, knowing that Leafdapple would never be able to break the Power he holds over them – only the Stars could do that, and they cannot walk here. Sol scoffs, then looks up as the black and white cat from before appears.  My leader will be here shortly, he says confidently, they wished to be prepared for negotiations.

At camp, the controlled cats and a few loyal Rogues guard the den where the prisoners are held.  Suddenly, Loudbelly slams into the first Rogue, followed by Sharpclaw, Ebonyclaw, and Hassle.  Leafstar leaps onto the first controlled cat – Patchfoot shakes his head, and the green bleeding back into his eyes.  Petalnose embraces Rainfur as he comes back to himself, both weeping in relief.  The Rogues scatter, and the apprentices and Elders cry out in joy.  Leafstar, having freed Shortwhisker, calls out to them – come with me, we have a meeting to get to!

Sol spits angrily – time has passed, and the only cats to show are the black and white tom, an elderly brown tom, and a few hideous youngsters.  Where is your leader, you dung faced freaks?!?

Here I am, Harry. Here we all are.

Sol spins in shock – Leafdapple stares him down, rage in her eyes. Next to her is that white cat he heard wanted to join.  But behind her, behind her are his prisoners!  And his Controlled Cats! Whu-how!?  You have no power, Leafdapple! Sol sputters, and the dratted molly snarls at him – My Name Is Leafstar!

No.

NO!

A horrible noise echoes from the trees, and a twisted creature of eyes and wings and cat claws launches, bringing a stench of rot and illness.  It leaps towards Leafstar, who dodges and screeches a war cry.  Suddenly the trees are filled with cats, charging into the Rogues and scattering them.  As the Stargeist twists to attack her, a pair of shapes slam into it like meteorites – Grey Wing and Turtle Tail.  Sol does not stick around to find out how this goes, running at top speed away.  The Starclan Cats batter and shred the former Founder, and Grey Wing tears the belly of the beast.  With a sound like bones breaking and stars dying, the Stargeist faded away, with all the grace of a fish out of water.  Clear Sky – Skystar – was dead.

The Rogues scattered, and Skyclan rejoiced. The gorge was retaken, the Elders enstated in honor, and the Clowder cats gladly joining up.  The Cultures of the four Clans join with the Ancient Skyclan Culture.  Echosong teaches Frecklepaw to heal, and Lavinia and Pasqual celebrate a litter. Hawkpaw and Pebblepaw fall in love, and Hawkwing and Pebbleshine watch the world go by.

Within a year, all the elders passed into Starclan, at peace that the future would hold wonders…even if it held pain as well.

(in the stars, a fading golden molly snarls and grieves. How dare someone take her mate from her)

Time passed.

(Rain seethed, his glorious leader had left him – but he would destroy the Clans himself.  He would fall on them, like his namesake…)

(Late one night, Leafstar and Billystorm are awoken by Skywatcher’s spirit.  She startles awake, as her old friend screams.

RUN!  WAKE THE CLAN AND RUN!

More wails of danger shake the air, and Leafstar bolts from her den.  Frostfur is loading Macguyver with kits, Mudfur is shaking Frecklepaw awake, Loudbelly is rallying the Brawlers and Warriors.  Hollowback is shoving apprentices out of their dens with a frantic Jangle, and Yewtail is helping Echosong load up on herbs.

A cry splits the night. Followed by more and more and more.

Rogues pour into camp.

The Clan scatters.

Rain laughs wildly – Skyclan is no more! Scattered like leaves! Like prey!

But there will be five clans.

One Day.