A Wind In The Night

Prologue
Snow fell steadily, covering the already-white ground. A freezing wind swept through as two huge shapes slipped silently into LionClan territory. It was moonhigh, but tonight the clouds shrouded the moon, concealing the two. "Where is he?" one growled. "He said he'd be here!" "Patience, Hawkheart," the other replied, nudging his companion. Suddenly out of the shadows stepped a huge golden lion. Just as he did, the moon slipped out of the clouds, falling on him and turning his pelt silver. The light revealed his visitors black and orange bodies, sleek and smooth. "Goldenstar. You have come," Hawkheart said, dipping his head respectfully. "Of course," Goldenstar hissed. "Did you have doubts?" "Certainly not." The other tiger stepped forward, nudging his deputy aside. "Let me do the talking," he muttered so that Goldenstar would not hear. The lion faced him, his eyes ablaze. "So, Redstar, have you considered my offer?" he asked, voice questioning and holding the faintest sneer. Redstar drew himself up, just slightly taller than the lion. His lips pulled back ever so slightly, revealing his glistening white teeth. "Don't be so quick to mock me, Goldenstar," he snarled. "Without my Clan, yours will fall to pieces in this...operation." "Ha!" Goldenstar's face changed instantly to amusement. "Against WolfClan? Did you stuff your head with bees?" Redstar's eyes took on a sudden wisdom as they traveled up to the faint stars above them. He let out a faint sigh then turned back to his fellow leader. "I have a feeling that StarClan has a part to play in this, whether it be in our favor or not. I heard something in my dreams, whispers....'Something is coming,' they said.  'The One will return...''' Redstar trailed off, shuddering at his memory.  "The One?" Goldenstar asked, not even able to hide his curiosity.  "You know of whom I speak. He is still out there, Goldenstar, he and his warriors. They haven't been sitting dormant for all these moons, oh no. They're planning something, or StarClan is. I can feel it." Goldenstar recoiled at his words, face screwing up in disgust and disbelief. "You've gone mad! You drove him out moons ago! There's no way he's coming back! We don't even know if he's alive! Can we just get back to what really matters?" Redstar looked defiant, then his face relaxed. "Fine," he said, as though the last few words exchanged between them did not matter. "I have accepted your offer, though I want a say in the planning." "Certainly. Then, we split the territory once those crowfood-eating monsters are gone!" Goldenstar agreed, voice triumphant. As he said his words, the clouds covered the moon once more.  Way up in the sky, far above the three cats, a beautiful tortoiseshell she-cat and a bright ginger tom watched with nervous eyes. "Flamestar, this cannot be happening," she said desparingly.  "I'm afraid so, Ripplewind," Flamestar answered, resting his tail on her spine.  Another cat, a dark brown tabby tom, appeared and sat down beside him. "They were talking about Stormstar. I'd shred their pelts if I was still alive!" he hissed furiously, glaring down at the three. "Calm yourself, Thorntail. Stormstar is long gone from those parts. But he will come back, I know it. One young warrior must lead him...."

Far away from the Clans, a dark gray, almost black, tom woke, his green eyes snapping open. Another cat, pure white with blue eyes, sat up. "What is it?" she mewed sleepily. The tom looked at her with a shocked expression before relaxing. "Nothing," he answered as calmly as he could. "Go back to sleep." She nodded and soon settled back down next to a blue-gray she-cat, who stirred slightly. The tom turned to look at the dark sky, a sliver of moon appearing, bouncing off his pelt in great beams. "StarClan have not abandoned us after all."

Chapter 1 - The Sky's Sacrifice
"Snowfire! Snowfire, wake up!  It's time for the ceremony!" Petalpaw's nervous voice blasted in Snowfire's ear, instantly rousing him. His eyes snapped open to the den, which was completely empty besides him. The morning air felt like ice on his pelt as he got to his paws, stretching his muscles, stiff with tiredness. Why did Blizzardstar have to pick the break of dawn to do this? he wondered, following Petalpaw out of the den. It was time for she and Skypaw's warrior ceremony. Snowfire was happy for them, but he would much rather catch up on his sleep. Nightmares of Snowmane and his father had plagued him, making it impossible for him to shut his eyes without seeing them. Outside, he was relieved to see some of the snow had melted, but the ground was still well-covered. The warriors had dug the fresh-kill pile out of the snow, and now it was nestled in a small hole. Snowfire quickly chose a vole, and settled down by Petalpaw and Skypaw, who were both staring nervously at their meals. Snowfire took a quick bite, allowing the flavor to burst out over his tongue, before addressing them. "Scared?" he asked. Petalpaw gave a little sort of squeak, while Skypaw nodded solemnly. The apprentice was so much different from the bouncy little kit Snowfire had once known. Whitetail had turned him into a skilled and wise warrior. "Don't be. It's not bad at all.  Just say a couple "I do's" and then you're done," Snowfire assured them. "I'm excited to sleep in the same den as you now," Petalpaw mewed, relaxing a little and even purring. Snowfire touched his nose to her head. Beside him, Skypaw stiffled a sigh. He hadn't liked the idea of his sister being mates with his best friend. "There you two go again," he mumbled grouchily, finishing his fresh-kill. Another quick wash and he was gone, joining Whitetail and a few other warriors by the old stump. "He's just jealous," Petalpaw whispered to Snowfire. "I think he'd rather die than admit he wants a she-cat to fall for him like I did for you." Snowfire purred as his thoughts turned to her confession on that snowy day, out in the forest. It had been quiet....so quiet..... "All members of WolfClan, gather beneath the Howling Rock!" Blizzardstar's announcement made him jump. After his heartbeat returned to normal, Snowfire and Petalpaw walked over to where the Clan was assembling. Petalpaw and her brother went up to the front of the crowd, fur sticking up slightly, while he sat down next to Shadowsplash. The dark warrior murmured a greeting, his eyes heavy and sad. He had been acting odd lately, getting distracted easily, drifting off into thought, talking even less than usual. Snowfire couldn't seem to figure out what it was. "Today, my Clanmates, we join for a very important ceremony! Two young apprentices will now receive their warrior names!  Snowpaw, Petalpaw, please come up here!" Blizzardstar yowled. The two leaped up as cheers erupted through the cats. Wolves took the apprentices and leaders place. "Petalpaw." Blizzardstar towered over her, eyes serious. "Do you promise to uphold the warrior code?" "I do!" she replied, nervous but firm. "And do you promise to fight to protect your Clan, even at the cost of your life?" "I do!" "Then by the the powers of StarClan, I hereby name you Petalstripe! We honor your skills and bravery, and welcome you as a full warrior of WolfClan." Petalstripe nodded, shaking from head to paw, as she swiftly climbed down and took her place by Snowfire. He nuzzled her, feeling her muscles relax at his touch. "You did brilliantly," he whispered. She only buried her nose in his shoulder as Skypaw stepped up. The ritual was performed, and soon he came down as Skyflight, beaming like the rays of the sun. "Congratulations to Petalstripe and Skyflight!” Blizzardstar boomed proudly. “Petalstripe! Skyflight!  Petalstripe!  Skyflight!” the Clan answered in a chorus of loud howls, Snowfire at the top of his lungs.  Petalstripe shrank down in embarrassment, but he nudged her back up. “Now, everyone back to their duties!” Blizzardstar called when the cheering had died down.  “Snowfire, lead a hunting patrol!” Snowfire nodded, and immediately turned to the new warriors. “Of course,” Petalstripe answered his unspoken offer.  Skyflight nodded.  And so they quickly pushed through the barrier and stepped out into the forest.  However, they hadn’t gotten far when Snowfire crashed into Otterwind and Shadowsplash, who were coming back from patrol, Dawntail not far behind. “Watch where you’re going!” Otterwind snapped angrily, fur sticking straight up. “S-sorry!” Snowfire stammered, looking over at Shadowsplash. But the huge tom simply shrugged and walked past, tail down, head low. Otterwind watched him go, clearly bewildered. “What is with him lately?” he wondered, half to himself, also moving on. Dawntail touched noses with her son, then followed him off toward camp. Snowfire looked over at his companions. "What was that all about?" he asked. By the looks on their faces, they knew no more than he did.

Night was falling as Snowfire sank his teeth into a freshly-caught mouse. Petalstripe, Skyflight, and he had caught an impressive amount of prey for it being the middle of leafbare. Now, the entire Clan feasted. For once in a long time, everyone would sleep with full bellies. Beside him, Petalstripe gobbled down a thrush, eyes glowing with satisfaction. After a wash of her paws, she flopped down onto her back, a purr rumbling in her throat. "I haven't been so full in a long time!" she exclaimed. Snowfire joined her, looking up at the stars. Tonight, they seemed especially bright. "Me neither," he replied, but his mind was elsewhere, wrapped in Sunstreak's last visit. Was he up there now, watching and waiting? Oh, father. If only I could have known you. If only you could still be here. "Snowfire?" Petalstripe asked, giving him an odd look. "Yes?" He shook his head furiously. "Are you okay? You seem so...distant lately.  Kind of like Shadowsplash." A jolt of shock rippled through Snowfire. He was becoming like Shadowsplash? Gloomy and sullen? "I'm fine, Petalstripe. Don't worry," he whispered, gently licking her cheek. "I'll always be here for you, no matter what." She curled up close to him, her soft fur pressing against his own. Her head rested against his shoulder. "I know. I love you," she answered. "I love you too. Always."

Soft, golden sunlight woke Snowfire early in the warriors den. All of the other warriors were still sleeping, filling the den with their soft breaths. He got to his feet, yawning and stretching. Something, or someone, had woken him, and now he was filled with energy. A few licks of his paws and he strode out into camp, breathing in the morning air. The sun had just risen over the horizon, an orange glow filling the sky. It was beautiful, and for a moment Snowfire simply sat there looking at it, admiring the swirl of color. Then he started toward the fresh-kill pile. Suddenly, he froze, inhaling deeply. Something was wrong. A scent in the air. Only one name matched it. LionClan. Instantly, Snowfire whipped around, searching for the huge golden cats. He considered waking the Clan, but he had to be sure. As carefully and silently as he could, he padded toward the barrier, following the scent trail. Just as he stepped up to it, two glowing eyes met his, deep amber. Snowmane. "We meet again, Snowpaw," the lion growled. "Snowfire now. Or haven't you heard?  I thought you'd get the news of how I beat up your deputy," Snowfire shot back. "Watch who you talk about, or you'll be crowfood," came a familiar female hiss, belonging to Featherpelt. More eyes appeared, more golden pelts broke through gaps in the bramble branches. Knowing it was all he could do, Snowfire turned and yowled as loud as he could: "LionClan invasion!" A huge body hit him the minute the words escaped his mouth, and he found himself being pinned to the ground by Snowmane. LionClan warriors crashed through the barrier, tearing it down. But at the same time, wolves were appearing. Otterwind, then Shadowsplash and Blizzardstar, and then Petalstripe. Snowfire's body grew as he too changed and began to fight. Snowmane's claws raked his sides and he bit back a cry of pain before nipping his forepaw. The lion recoiled for only a heartbeat, but it was all Snowfire needed to wriggle free and get to his feet. The two faced off, growling. Shadowsplash had his teeth locked in an enemys scruff, dragging him slowly across the ground. Only when the warrior begged enough did he let go. Otterwind batted Featherpelt's ears, tearing one. She spat in rage, but he was already on her back, bringing her to the ground. Snowmane charged, catching Snowfire off guard, but, thinking fast, he rolled onto his back, tangled his paws in the lions. He unbalanced and Snowfire easily flipped him over and leaped on top of him. "You're strong," Snowmane grudgingly admitted. "And fast." "I'm strong enough to kill you!" Snowfire cried, opening his jaws to go in for the death bite. Suddenly, teeth fastened into his scruff and dragged him off. Snowmane got to his paws and darted away. Snowfire turned and found himself looking into the eyes of Dawntail. "We only kill if necessary. Don't be like him," she begged. "But he killed my father!" Snowfire protested. "Your father was never low like him, killing at will and whenever he felt like it. Don't ever be too quick to deal out death and judgement." And then she was gone. As much as he didn't want to admit it, his mother was right. If he killed Snowmane, he would be just as bad as the lion. So instead, Snowfire searched for Petalstripe. And he found her, struggling against a tom twice her size. He threw himself forward just as her opponent pinned her onto her back. Blood already poured from her sides, deep cuts running down them. But she fought as hard as she could, battering the lion with her hind legs, although it was to no avail. Just as he was about to sink his teeth into her neck, Snowfire leaped onto his back, dug in his claws, and rolled him off. Using his unbalancing move, he had the tom on the ground, tearing scratches into his belly. But one blow from his enemys legs and he was thrown up into the air, landing hard on his belly. Footsteps behind him told him his opponent was coming. Snowfire struggled to his feet, weakened by the fall. The lion was about to slam into him when it happened. A flash of white flew in front of Snowfire, taking the crucial hit. The two barreled backward, rolling in the dirt, snapping and clawing at each other. Snowfire could only sit, stunned, as the scene unfolded. Now he saw who his savior was. Skyflight. The young wolf was fighting hard, leaving long slices in his opponents side, nipping at his paws. But then the tom brought him down. Skyflight struggled, but it was no use. Snowfire saw it coming a second before it did. "Skyflight, no!" he cried. But it was too late. A sickening snap cut the air, and then Skyflight fell limp. It was that quick. Petalstripe gasped in horror, eyes widening in shock. The huge lions eyes glowed with triumph as he got up off his kill. In a fit of rage, Snowfire lunged forward and hit the murderer straight in the chest. Unbelievable strength and energy pulsed in his muscles as he drove him further and further back. The tom pushed against him, but he didn't even budge. Snowfire sank his teeth into his shoulder, and then released his opponent. The lion took one last look at him and then shot off, disappearing into the forest. Panting, Snowfire turned and his first sight was Skyflight's body, still as stone, his eyes only sightless orbs. LionClan was retreating. Blizzardstar had left his mark on Goldenstar, and now the leader fled the camp, his warriors tearing after him. In their absence, Snowfire realized that the sun had fully risen, and now shown high in the sky. The barrier had been torn down, and the apprentices den was heading that way too. Everything else was unharmed. Shadowsplash helped an unsteady Ravensong to her feet, while Otterwind supported Whitetail. Mouseheart sported a large gash over one eye, blood running down his face, and Hareflame was limping, his back leg twisted. Blizzardstar, flanked by Cloudleaf, stood in the center of the camp, his chest heaving from his own fighting. His eyes took in the devastation, troubled and weary. When he saw Skyflight, however, they looked as though they might come out of his head. He bounded over to Snowfire. "What happened?" he demanded, sounding shocked. "He fought some huge tom." Snowfire could barely get the words out of his mouth. Grief was weighing on him like a heavy stone. "It was quick." Petalstripe came up beside him, pressing against his fur, though he could feel her sorrow as well. Blizzardstar bowed his head. "I see. He was young.  So much potential," was all he said before he gently took the cats scruff in his teeth and dragged him beneath the Howling Rock. As the Clan slowly realized the dead warriors presence, one by one, they all gathered around him, heads bowed. Icefern was being comforted by Dawntail, wailing almost hysterically. Snowfire looked over at Petalstripe, then took his place in the crowd. She went off to sit with her mother, and he found himself beside Shadowsplash. The dark warrior looked troubled, as always, but maybe even more now. Blizzardstar appeared on Howling Rock, Cloudleaf beside him. "My Clanmates," he said solemnly. "It is with great sorrow I report the death of Skyflight. He died bravely and honorably, and StarClan will receive him with open arms." There was no response. Everyone already knew. "But," Blizzardstar continued, voice growing stronger. "we cannot wallow in grief. LionClan has done a terribly injustice today.  They will not be forgiven.  At the next Gathering, which is tomorrow, their treachery will be revealed to every Clan!" A few murmurs swept through the Clan, then there was silence once more. Blizzardstar, realizing that no one was listening, jumped down and disappeared into his den. Snowfire watched him go, thinking hard. Their conversation about the lost leader floated into his mind. If he had been here, would he have been able to stop this?

Chapter 2 ~ Cover the Stars
The sun was sinking beneath the horizon, pink streaks trailing across the sky, as the Clan gathered beneath Howling Rock. It had been a day since the battle, and Skyflight now rested peacefully beneath the Old Oak, which had been his favorite place to hunt and relax. Now, it was time to move on. Tonight was the Gathering. Tonight, LionClan would pay. Snowfire sat beside Petalstripe, waiting for Blizzardstar to speak. The young she-cat showed no trace of sadness. She had pulled through her brothers death with great strength. Snowfire admired her for it, thinking of the previous night, when she hadn't been able to sleep without Skyflight by her side. He had been up very late consoling her, and now he was plagued with exhaustion. But it was worth it. I promised I'd be there for her. "Members of WolfClan!" Blizzardstar's yowl broke through his thoughts. "This is our hour! Tonight, we will confront LionClan!  They will not walk away without hearing what we have to say!" Cheering erupted through the crowd. Snowfire half-heartedly joined in, but his mind was elsewhere, thinking about the lost leader and Sunstreak's message and Shadowsplash's odd depression. They seemed to be connected, somehow, to each other. "Now, it is time to announce who will be there for this! The cats traveling to the Gathering will be Petalstripe, Snowfire, Shadowsplash, Icefern, Dawntail, Otterwind, Hareflame, Larkflower, and Mouseheart!" Yes. Snowfire couldn't wait to see Snowmane's face when he showed up, when his leader announced his Clan's wrongdoings. Blizzardstar looked around at his warriors, his eyes somber but determined. "Tonight is for Skyflight, a young, brave warrior who was a victim of LionClan's treachery," he said quietly, but they all heard him. Petalstripe and Icefern bowed their heads. "And tonight is for Sunstreak, who has been gone for many moons. I will never forget his leadership and service to the Clan.  I am honored to have his son standing in our midst." Snowfire felt his fur grow hot as many eyes rested on him. "He is his father alive again." Murmurs of agreement rippled through the Clan. Snowfire dipped his head to his leader, acknowledging him for all of his fine mentoring. "Now," Blizzardstar's voice turned to a strong yowl. "Let us make LionClan pay for our dead! They will regret ever making us suffer!" This time, Snowfire cheered loudly. This was for his father. With Blizzardstar at the front, the Clan charged out of camp, anger and determination fueling their bodies. Snowfire's muscles burned with energy as he raced along with them. Petalstripe came up beside him, and their pelts just barely touched. The border soon, was a distant memory as they arrived at Great Plains. On top of the huge rock, Snowfire could just make out the shapes of Lilystar and Redstar. Where is Goldenstar? LionClan had better show up! Snowfire thought as he changed shape and WolfClan took its place in the crowd. He and Petalstripe found themselves in the middle of leopards. "Hello!" one, a female, said cheerfully. "Nice to meet you!" another female gushed. "What's your name?" a third asked, her eyes bright and beautiful, but nothing like Petalstripe's in Snowfire's opinion. After answering their questions, the two broke away to be alone. Snowfire was about to say something to Petalstripe when a huge roar echoed through Great Plains. LionClan had arrived. Goldenstar scaled the rock and was on it in heartbeats, while golden pelts darted into the crowd. LionClan was still the same. Proud, haughty, and bigheaded. "There's the one that...you know..." Petalstripe pointed out, indicating a huge lion with the same yellow eyes of Skyflight's killer. Snowfire licked the top of her head, just in case she got upset. "Well, well, well. Looks like Snowfire's got a mate," came a cold, smooth voice from behind. Snowfire didn't need to turn around to identify its owner. "Get away from us, Snowmane," he growled threateningly. The lion took a seat next to Petalstripe. She shrank away from him, hissing. "I don't think I will, actually. It's good to make friends from other Clans." "If you want a friend, then you can go to the Dark Forest, because that's where you'll end up one day," Snowfire shot back, narrowing his eyes. "My, my, aren't we grouchy? Knot in your fur?" Snowmane asked carelessly. Snowfire simply ignored him as Lilystar went to speak. Her wise, clear voice washed away his anger and irritation. He half-wished he was in LeopardClan. It was peaceful, at least. Redstar was next. His reports were short and simple. Good. I want to get to Blizzardstar. He nearly bristled with anticipation. Goldenstar stepped up. "All is well with LionClan, thanks to StarClan's generous supply of prey and our warriors strength!" he announced. "What strength? What prey?  Thank WolfClan, since you take all of ours!" Otterwind cried bravely, facing the leader. Goldenstar narrowed his eyes at him. "When last I looked, WolfClan barely had the strength to fend off puny attacks," he snarled icily. At that moment, Blizzardstar came up on his side, eyes calm and firey. Whatever anger Lilystar had driven from Snowfire, it all returned at the sight of Goldenstar's big stupid face. "Cats - and wolves - of all Clans, there is something that needs to be spoken of! Something that should have been spoken of long ago!" Blizzardstar said in a strong, stony voice. The crowd was silent. You could hear a twig snap. "LionClan is not who you think they are!" Blizzardstar finally cried. Snowmane's face grew hard, as did Goldenstar's and all of LionClan's. "What is the meaning of this, Blizzardstar?" Goldenstar hissed softly. "You know the meaning," Blizzardstar replied darkly. His head turned back to the Clans. "LionClan has done terrible things! Many moons ago, one of their warriors murdered our deputy, Sunstreak!" Cries of outrage erupted through the crowd. Sunstreak had been popular. Snowfire had to resist the urge to look over at Snowmane. "They have been stealing prey since before that time, and, just yesterday, they murdered one of our young warriors! Skyflight is dead!" Blizzardstar howled. The crowd grew louder. However, Goldenstar stepped forward and gave a fearsome roar. All noise died down until it was gone. "Do you expect him to be telling the truth? A half-starved, half-mad mongrel?" he demanded. No one spoke. "WolfClan is nothing more than a joke!" one lion yowled. "A Clan of fools!" said another. Otterwind and Hareflame quickly leaped before those two, growling until they were quiet. "And," Snowmane cried, his eyes holding a deadly glint, "they've had a leader run away before! A real coward!" There was a furious howl, then a dark flash, and Snowmane was on his back, pinned down by Shadowsplash. "Don't you dare speak of things you don't understand! Don't you dare say he ran away!  Don't you dare call my brother a coward!" he roared angrily. Snowfire and Petalstripe backed away, shocked at his rage. At that moment, the moon vanished, hidden by black clouds. "A sign! StarClan is angry!" Lilystar yowled. "This Gathering is over!" Shadowsplash reluctantly released Snowmane, though he growled loudly as the lion stalked away. The Clan divided, their leaders rejoining them. Snowfire looked at Blizzardstar. His head was bowed, eyes to the ground, full of sorrow. They had failed.

Chapter 3 ~ Wait Until the Wind Blows ~
Snowfire wearily dropped his mouse on the fresh-kill pile, yawning. The snow had soaked his fur, nearly reaching his belly. The meager prey he had been able to find had been barely alive, its bones free of meat. Snowfire looked up onto Howling Rock, where Blizzardstar sat, watching the Clan. His eyes were clouded, his coat was dull, and he looked as skinny as the fresh-kill. Blizzardstar had been in a state of depression ever since the Gathering. Snowfire hoped he would snap out of it soon. The Clan needed him. Warm fur greeted Snowfire as Petalstripe pressed against him, letting a vole fall on top of his mouse. "What's the matter? You look upset," she asked quietly. "It's nothing," Snowfire answered quickly in what he hoped was a casual, upbeat voice. "Just tired, that's all." She gave him a 'I'm not fooled' look, but said nothing. Suddenly a dark shape loomed over them. Snowfire turned to find himself face-to-face with Shadowsplash. The tom was looking at him, his expression grave. "Snowfire, may I have a word?" he asked. "Alone?" He cast a glance at Petalstripe. "Uh, yeah," Snowfire said. How could he refuse? Leaving Petalstripe, he followed Shadowsplash into the forest, until they were near the mossy boulder. At that point, the dark tom turned and faced him. "What is it?" Snowfire was unsure of what Shadowsplash wanted. Was he angry with him? "Snowfire....I..I heard you and Blizzardstar talking when you were an apprentice...about my brother.." he began uneasily. "Right after you became a warrior, I had a dream. I saw him - my brother - and then I saw you.  A voice said to me:  Only the fall of snow can wake the storm.  I think it meant that you would bring my brother back." Snowfire's jaw dropped. Was that his destiny? "Uh...are you sure it was me?" he questioned, voice weak. Shadowsplash nodded. "I know it was," he answered. A question suddenly formed in Snowfire's head, and it was out before he could stop it. "What was his name? Your brother?" A darkness came over Shadowsplash's face. It was full of grief and sorrow. "Stormstar. He was the strongest warrior in the forest." He didn't sound like he was boasting. He sounded weary, as though the fact was tiring to think about. Snowfire only nodded. "Shadowsplash...I don't really know if what you saw was true, but...I have a destiny. My father came to me and told me I would save the Clan.  Do you think that's how I will do it?" he asked. The warrior was more experienced and wise. Maybe he would help him. But Shadowsplash only shrugged. "I don't know, Snowfire. But, if that really is your destiny, I will help you in any way I can," he promised. "Thank you. I expect you'll want to get back to Petalstripe now." And with that, he strode past Snowfire and vanished into the darkness. Snowfire watched him go, wondering and thinking. Did Stormstar have a destiny? Was he meant to leave, then come back? Are our futures entwined?

In his dreams, Snowfire sat at the bottom of a huge cliff. On top of it sat Sunstreak, a faceless wolf beside him who must have been Stormstar. "Accept your destiny!" his father called. "Climb to the top!" But Snowfire couldn't. The cliff was straight up. And then his father was angry, saying what a failure he was...that his Clan had not been saved... A fierce gust of air suddenly swept through the den, shaking Snowfire awake. His eyes slowly opened to the darkness. Sitting up, he realized that none of the other warriors had been stirred. Odd, he thought. As the wind died away, a strange scent caught his nose. The scent of....stars. Snowfire...Snowfire...came a whisper in his head. Snowfire felt the fur on the back of his neck stand on end. Come...to the stream...you will find answers... But why, Snowfire wondered. Just come. Now he could tell the voice was a she-cats, soft and gentle like a queen whispering to a frightened kit. Realizing there was no harm meant to him, Snowfire carefully stepped over Whitetail before heading out of the den. Camp was cold and quiet, except for a gentle snore rising from the elders den. Suppressing a purr, Snowfire crossed the clearingand pushed through the barrier. Fresh grief pierced him as he detected Skyflight's faint scent in the air. His tail drooping, Snowfire padded quickly and lightly through the forest, snow crunching beneath his paws. He considered becoming a wolf, where the wetness in his fur wouldn't bother him, but he pushed the thought away as the stream came into view. It looked perfectly normal, the sheet of ice on top glittering in the moonlight. Snowfire cautiously approached it and sat down, gazing at the frozen water. "Welcome, Snowfire," a voice mewed from behind. Snowfire whirled around, bristling, to find a sandy she-cat with faint, darker stripes standing before him. Her pelt shone with stars, and her eyes held a deep wisdom. The same starry scent rippled off of her like waves. "I am Sandstripe, a former warrior of WolfClan," she mewed, dipping her head. Snowfire was so awed by her that his head felt frozen in place. He feebly nodded back, unable to tear his eyes away from her face. "Wh-what do you want?" he asked blankly. "I come with a very important message," she replied, leaping forward so lightly that Snowfire couldn't even hear her paws hit the ground. "Your Clan is in danger, as it has been for moons. LionClan grows stronger, while your warriors grow thinner as prey grows shorter.  With leafbare settling in, the Clan isn't ready for battle. "But you can help them  be ready." "How?" Snowfire asked in astonishment.  Him?  An ordinary warrior? "You must go on a dangerous quest."  Snowfire braced himself. "You must find the lost leader." "The what?" "The lost leader of WolfClan. The one who left many moons ago and never returned," she explained. Snowfire couldn't believe this.  He was to go and find Stormstar? "Larkflower's son?" he questioned, just to make sure. "Yes. He and his warriors left long ago. They vanished, but did not die."  The more she talked, the more Snowfire believed this was a dream. "The lost leader, or Stormstar, is still alive. He is waiting. You must go and bring him back. Only with him can your Clan survive." Sandstripe's tone was grave. "But how can they save us?" Snowfire pressed, his head swimming with confusion. "Stormstar was the most powerful warrior ever to walk these lands. His warriors are also very powerful. Their names strike fear into the hearts of every  They will be of much use in battle." "Does this have to do with what you told Shadowsplash?" It had to, didn't it?  It all was fitting inside Snowfire's head. "Yes. Only a fall of snow can wake the storm. Stormstar must return, and only you can lead him back." "Why did he leave?" Snowfire had been dying for an answer to this question for a long time. "You must find out for yourself. Now, go over and look at yourself in the ice." Sandstripe flicked her tail toward the frozen stream.  Snowfire nodded and padded up to the ice.  But just as he was about to look, a sudden wariness came over him.  He looked back at Sandstripe, eyes narrowing slightly.  "What will I see?" he asked suspiciously. "Look," she commanded in a more forceful tone.  Still cautious, Snowfire leaned forward and looked down at the ice.  He saw his face, reflected on the surface.  But just as he was about to turn away, the reflection changed.  A golden cats face appeared, his yellow gaze proud and stern.  "Father," Snowfire murmured in awe. The image changed again to the face of a wolfs, smoky gray, almost black, with haunting green eyes.  They met his own, piercing him with overflowing emotions.  Anger, regret, sorrow, love... Snowfire couldn't take it.  He leaped backward, panting.  The spot where the faces had appeared was smoking slightly. Sandstripe's tail lightly slid across his spine, relaxing him as she came up on his right. "What was that?" he burst out, looking at her with widened eyes. "What you saw was the reason of your quest. You will understand later.  Now, you must listen to me.  Can you remember what woke you?" "Wind," Snowfire answered. "It smelled of stars." "Good. Your journey will not begin quite yet.  You must wait until the same wind comes.  It is my sign.  Then, you will leave that night at moonhigh," she explained in a businesslike tone. "But...I don't know the way to Stormstar," Snowfire pointed out. "Do not fear. I will show you the way.  I must go now, Snowfire.  Remember, you are not alone." And with a touch of her nose to his head, Sandstripe turned and was gone, leaving behind only her starry scent. Snowfire put one paw forward to go back to camp, but weariness fell upon him like a cloud. The last thing he remembered from that night was falling to the ground, his eyes closing.

Chapter 4 ~ The Journey Begins
No one woke Snowfire. No one even found him laying out in the forest. That was because he had woken before dawn, and headed back to the den. No one had even noticed he had been gone. It was as if nothing had happened. But something had happened. And Snowfire couldn't even comprehend it yet. He thought about it as he ate his vole the next morning. "Are you okay?" Petalstripe asked, peering into his face. "You're really quiet." "I'm fine. Just tired," he lied quickly. He was tired, but that wasn't on his mind at all. Petalstripe nodded and went back to her fresh-kill. Snowfire kept pondering it: that was his destiny? To bring back Stormstar? Would it work? Could he do it? It was the middle of leafbare, and he would be out in unknown territory... He was so absorbed he didn't hear Blizzardstar coming up behind him. "Snowfire," the leader mewed importantly. "I want you to get a hunting patrol together. This Clan needs fresh-kill." Snowfire nodded and immediately got to his paws. He looked to Petalstripe. "Of course I'll come," she answered just as he opened his mouth. "Who else would you like to go?" Snowfire didn't even need to think. "Shadowsplash." He had to tell him he was going to find his brother. Shadowsplash knew about the prophecy. He could trust him, right? "Alright, there he is." Petalstripe flicked her tail at the huge warrior, who was just coming out of the den. Before he could make it to the tiny fresh-kill pile, Snowfire approached him. "Want to come hunting?" he asked casually. Shadowsplash replied with a quiet "yes", and the three headed for the barrier. Soon, they were out in the forest, the cold air biting Snowfire's cheek. The wind rattled the bare tree branches, shaking powdery snow from them. Petalstripe let out a loud yowl as a pile of snow fell on her head. Shaking furiously, she looked at Snowfire with annoyance. "Ugh, stupid snow," she complained, trying to get the white flakes out of her pelt. Snowfire knew he had to get Shadowsplash alone in order to relay the news to him. But how? He spotted the huge tom pawing through the snow, facing away from the younger warriors. Snowfire seized his chance. "Petalstripe," he mewed. "Can you go and hunt over there?" He flicked his tail in the direction opposite Shadowsplash. "I'll hunt over here. We should split up, we'll find more prey that way." Although she gave him a questioning look, Petalstripe obliged, and was soon only a colorful blur in the distance. Now Snowfire approached Shadowsplash. He came up beside him, keeping his distance. Shadowsplash looked over at him. "What?" he asked, still digging. "I need to tell you something," Snowfire whispered urgently, looking over his shoulder to make sure Petalstripe was still far away. She was. Shadowsplash only waited for him to continue, his eyes curious. "Shadowsplash...a warrior from StarClan came and visited me last night. She woke me and took me to the stream.  Then she told me about the prophecy you mentioned.  She said I was to bring Stormstar, your brother, back," he explained quickly. Shadowsplash's eyes widened, a strange haunted look coming into them. "Are you sure you weren't just dreaming?" he questioned in a disbelieving voice. "I'm sure. I have to begin the journey soon." Shadowsplash nodded, thinking hard. For a moment, there was silence. Then he looked at Snowfire once more. "I don't know where my brother went, or which way he went," he admitted. "It's fine. StarClan will show me the way," Snowfire assured him. "Please, don't tell anyone about it, though. Not even Blizzardstar or Crowwhisper." "I understand. Your secret - ours really - is perfectly safe.  Good luck, whenever you do go.  Now, we better get hunting." And the two toms turned away from each other. Even though their discussion had ended, Snowfire's mind was whirring. Will Sandstripe really show me the way? Will I be able to do this? Shadowsplash looked doubtful... Is there any hope?

Blizzardstar was delighted at the amount of prey the three warriors had brought back to camp. Each had managed to catch a considerable amount. "Finally, everyone will have a full belly!" Dawntail remarked happily, pressing against her son and congratulating him. "I knew you'd be a great warrior," she whispered, nuzzling him fondly. Snowfire only nodded, eager to break away from her and sit down. They had hunted until sunhigh, and he was exhausted. Still, it was much to early to sleep. He was about to take a piece of prey himself was Petalstripe appeared. She was looking at him in a funny way. "What is it?" he asked, slightly irritated at her interference. "We need to talk. Now." Her voice had an angry edge to it. Confused, Snowfire followed her into the empty warriors den. They went all the way to the back, where Petalstripe sat down, facing him. "What's the matter?" Snowfire asked. "I want to know what's going on. I'm tired of all the lies, Snowfire.  Something is up with you and Shadowsplash," she said, eyes narrowing suspiciously. Snowfire frantically searched for words. What would he say? He couldn't tell her, as much as he wanted to. She wouldn't understand, and she would be upset that he was leaving... "Petalstripe...I..I can't really tell you," he replied uneasily. "I'm your mate! Can't you trust me?  Or was it all just words to you?" she asked scathingly. "No! I love you, Petalstripe, but...I just...can't..." Snowfire trailed off. "You can tell Shadowsplash," she sniffed. "I had to tell him because it concerns him!" he shot back. "Doesn't it concern me? Don't I matter to you at all?" she pressed, voice rising. "Yes! But it doesn't matter to you.  You wouldn't understand!" Snowfire felt his own voice rising as well. "Oh, don't give me that! Ever since the Gathering you've been keeping your distance!  I want to know why, Snowfire!" Snowfire opened his mouth, then shut it, then opened it again. "All I can say is...it has to do with LionClan...." he whispered. "So why can't you tell me? My brother died, for StarClan's sake, because of them!  Wouldn't you think it mattered to me?" She was still angry, but sadness leaked into her voice. Snowfire didn't have an answer for that. "Exactly," she said hotly before storming out of the den, leaving him alone. And, alone, Snowfire realized, was not what he wanted to be right now.

The next few days after were quite normal, except that Petalstripe would not talk to Snowfire. She wouldn't even look at him. He loved her, but he was quite irritated at her behavior. "I don't get it!" he said angrily to Mouseheart as they were eating one day. "What did I do?" The silver tabby rolled his eyes, licking his paw. "She-cats," he remarked. "They'll never learn to forgive and forget." Snowfire couldn't help but agree. Another odd thing was that Snowfire and Shadowsplash grew quite close. They would eat together, patrol together, and basically became good friends. Shadowsplash would answer questions and tell stories about his brother, while Snowfire listened in surprise. Shadowsplash was normally silent, only speaking when spoken to. But now, it was he who talked the most. "Tell me about your brother," Snowfire requested one morning. "What he was like, what you thought of him." Shadowsplash took a moment to find his words, then he spoke. "He was very large, very strong. Even his appearance could scare off enemies.  His fur was dark gray, almost black, and he had these green eyes.  They looked like they were glowing sometimes." Snowfire's insides lurched. Stormstar's description matched the wolf that he had seen in the ice. "...but he was always kind, always honorable, never killing in a fight. He never boasted or showed off his skills.  And he was always good to me, always helping me when we were apprentices.  He was proud of his Clan.  Proud and strong." "He sounds really great," Snowfire said earnestly. He really meant it. "He was great. More than great.  When he became leader, he always did what was best for the Clan.  I know that's why he left.  It was for the Clan, not for himself.  He was no coward," Shadowsplash mewed. "I wish I could have said goodbye," he added, sadness filling his voice. Snowfire blinked in understanding. So Shadowsplash didn't know why Stormstar had left either. It must have been secret. "When did he leave? What was going on?" he asked. "We were fighting TigerClan. It was the middle of the night.  We eventually drove them out, with LeopardClan's help, and then he was gone.  Everyone was shocked.  Some were angry, and some were upset, especially Larkflower and Blizzardstar.  It struck him very hard.  He was there, but, he wasn't quite with it.  And then a few days later a bunch of the warriors left, the ones who had been closest to Stormstar.  My mate went with them, expecting kits," Shadowsplash explained quietly. "And you?" "I was very sad, but nothing like Larkflower. She went into a state.  She wouldn't eat, she wouldn't talk, she wouldn't do anything but sleep.  I tried to talk to her one day, and she started blaming me and saying I wasn't strong enough and that she wished I had gone instead and that I could have stopped him." Shadowsplash shuddered. "I haven't spoken to her since." "That's horrible!" Snowfire exclaimed. How could a mother do that to her son? Shadowsplash only nodded grimly. He looked so sad now that Snowfire's heart nearly broke. "Shadowsplash, listen," he began, looking over at the tom. "I don't know how, but I promise, I will find your brother. I will not return until I do, even if I die on the journey.  I will bring him back, even if it's the last thing I do.  And when I return with him, we will make sure the Clan knows the truth.  He will not be called a coward," he finished, strength making his voice fierce. Shadowsplash looked happier than he had in moons. "Thank you, Snowfire. If anyone can do it, you can." At that moment, Snowfire scented stars. He froze, eyes widening, and sniffed the air. Yes, it was the wind. It ruffled his fur, filling it with the strong scent. Snowfire, it is almost time. Sandstripe whispered in his head. "What is it?" Shadowsplash asked, looking concerned. "Tonight is the night. I have to leave at moonhigh." "Let me go with you," Shadowsplash pleaded. "I can help you." But Snowfire shook his head. "I'm sorry, Shadowsplash, but I have to do this on my own," he said recluctantly. As much as he wanted the older warriors companionship, he knew this was his destiny. "I understand." Shadowsplash dipped his head. "But, Snowfire, tonight, at moonhigh, wake me, and I will come to the border with you to see you off." Snowfire nodded gratefully. "Shadowsplash, thank you."

The moon had just risen as Snowfire ducked his head to enter the crowded warriors den. Although he was yawning, his whole body was tense with nerves. He settled down into his nest, unable to sleep. His mind was filled with thoughts of tonight. Tonight, he would leave all he knew behind. In the center of the den, Shadowsplash shifted in his sleep. He was nearly awake. He too, was thinking hard about the night ahead of Snowfire. Concern filled his heart for the young warrior. Snowfire looked up through a crack in the den ceiling. One star twinkled in the sky. Sunstreak, he wondered. Is that you? Will you watch over me during this journey? Will you stay by my side? As if in answer, the star-scented wind swept through the den. Snowfire took it as a yes. The minutes slid by. Each one felt like hours, days, moons, until finally, Snowfire laid his head down and eased into sleep. He was plagued by horrible nightmares: Skyflight dead, Snowmane killing his father, Shadowsplash dying at the paws of a LionClan warrior, searching for Stormstar, never finding him, being buried in snow... He was woken very soon by a voice in his head. Come, Snowfire. Come to the stream. Sandstripe's gentle mew roused him. Yawning, and stretching, Snowfire rose to his paws, stepped over Berrycreek, and prodded Shadowsplash in the ribs. The tom cracked an eye open, saw his face, then got up himself, muscles rippling, pelt practically blending in with the darkness. He only nodded, and the two stepped out into the silent camp. The moon shone high in a cloudless sky, the same lone star glittering above their heads. It seemed to enstill hope and courage inside Snowfire as they pushed through the barrier and entered the forest. They traveled in silence, though they exchanged glances occasionally, a thousand words passing back and forth in these glances. Snowfire's muscles tingled with nerves, while Shadowsplash was tense with apprehension. Finally, the stream came into view. The ice that covered its surface was still there, shining like the Sparkling Stone. However, as he approached the stream, Snowfire was blocked by another cat. "And just what do you think you're doing?" she hissed in a frosty tone. Petalstripe. "I could ask you the same thing," Snowfire shot back, his voice equally cold. They stared at each other, eyes narrowing. Neither moved. Shadowsplash watched calmly. He knew better than to interfere. "Tell me what's going on, Snowfire," Petalstripe said, her voice lowering dangerously. "Why should I?" Snowfire mewed harshly. He was on the verge of becoming a wolf. "Stop this nonsense!" a powerful voice barked. Snowfire turned to see a large, slender wolf standing beside him, her pelt filled with stars. Her creamy fur and green eyes indicated.. "Sandstripe," he said in awe, dipping his head respectfully. Sandstripe looked...different. Her pelt was solid, her form opaque. Had she become a real wolf again? Sandstripe only nodded to him in reply. Then she looked over at Petalstripe. "Why are you here? Go back to your camp!" she growled. Petalstripe didn't budge. Sandstripe put one paw forward. "Go," she commanded in a threatening tone. Snowfire wanted to warn Petalstripe, but he didn't want to make Sandstripe angry. Still, the she-cat made no move. "Fine. Since you did not do as I said, I will drive you back by force," Sandstripe decided, starting toward Petalstripe. The other cat changed into a wolf, and now the two females circled each other, tails lashing in anger. Before either could attack the other, Snowfire thrust himself in between them, now a wolf himself. Shadowsplash, who had also changed, joined him. "Petalstripe, please," Snowfire begged. "Please, just go." Petalstripe's eyes softened and she gradually shrank back down into a cat. "Alright," she mewed sadly, voice quiet. "Snowfire, regardless of what you're doing, you are not my mate anymore. My love was wrongly put." And then she was gone, vanishing into the darkness, leaving Snowfire struck dumb at her words. Sandstripe relaxed, her face becoming wise and calm again. "Goodness, that was tense," she sighed, now turning to Shadowsplash. "I know why you are here, and I will not force you back. But I cannot allow you to go any further than the border." Shadowsplash nodded. The two were regarding each other as though they had met before. Snowfire was about to ask if they had, but then Sandstripe brushed up against him, her pelt warm and soft. "Snowfire, you have come," she said kindly. "Will you face the quest ahead of you?" Snowfire looked steadily into her bright eyes. "I will," he said firmly, not wanting her to doubt. She touched her nose to his head. "I knew you would. You are so brave.  And you put your trust in the right wolf." She indicated Shadowsplash, who stood back, letting them carry on. Again, Snowfire opened his mouth to question their history, but she had turned away and was heading for the eastern border. "You are lucky that the border you must cross is on the outer edge, and you don't have to travel through any other Clan territories," she called back to the two following toms. Snowfire merely nodded. He was so nervous he nearly shook. Beside him, Shadowsplash stared at the ground, his expression unreadable. Snowfire wanted to say something, but he didn't know what. The time seemed to drag by, the trees around slowly fading from view as they continued through the forest. Finally, Snowfire could not bear the silence anymore. "Shadowsplash," he whispered. The tom looked over at him. "Do you and Sandstripe know each other?" The question was finally out. There was a pause as Shadowsplash searched for words. Then he nodded. "We knew each other once. Long ago," was all he said before turning away again. A flick of Sandstripe's tail now signaled that they had reached the border. The three halted. Snowfire sniffed intently, checking for enemies...and Petalstripe. He nodded to Sandstripe when he was finished. She turned and faced the two toms, fixing them with her piercing stare. "Shadowsplash," she began, looking over at the dark wolf. "It is now time for Snowfire to begin his journey. Although you cannot journey with him, you must protect the Clan at all costs.  LionClan is not sitting dormant.  They are plotting, and they will attack WolfClan.  I do not know when, but I know it will happen.  Shadowsplash, you must fight with all of your strength.  Your Clan cannot afford to lose anymore warriors.  Also, tell no one where Snowfire has gone." Shadowsplash nodded solemnly. Sandstripe touched noses with him, her eyes sad. "You should go now, old friend," she said softly. "May StarClan light your path." Shadowsplash whispered a goodbye, then looked at Snowfire. "Good luck, Snowfire. I know you will not fail." "Next time we see each other, your brother will be with me," Snowfire promised. Shadowsplash's face lit up at his words, and with one last goodbye, he turned and bounded away, vanishing into the darkness. "At last, we are alone," Sandstripe said with a sigh. She faced Snowfire. "Snowfire, are you ready to begin your quest?" she asked. "I am." "Are you ready to face the dangers that lie ahead of you?" "I am." "And are you willing to restore these warriors to their home?" "I am!" Sandstripe's lips curled up like a smile. She pressed herself close to Snowfire, her fur radiating warmth "Then, let us go," she said firmly. And together, they stepped across the border, and began the long quest. Snowfire looked back at WolfClan territory for a moment. He was leaving all of this behind, with the possibility of never seeing it again. But I will see it again, he thought firmly. And so will Stormstar.

Chapter 5 ~ Pushing Forward
Snowfire woke to an unfamiliar dawn, the second dawn he had seen on his journey. He rose, shaking the snow off his pelt. It must have snowed overnight, he thought, staring at the well-covered ground. I hope it doesn't get too deep. Beside him, Sandstripe slept soundly. They had traveled all through the day and night, leaving the forest of oaks and maples and soon entering a forest of pines. The needled trees looked like spiky weapons in the sparse light. The sun was not visible, but the pink and blue sky was. The sight of it comforted Snowfire, filling him with warmth and energy despite the cold air around him. I should go and try to find us some prey, he thought as he began to pad away from Sandstripe. He hoped that she wouldn't wake up, find out he was gone, and worry. As he walked through the woods, sniffing intently, Snowfire found his mind on Petalstripe. He remembered every detail of the previous night. The tortoiseshell's angry face, her confrontation with Sandstripe, and, worst of all, her final words to him as she had left. He knew he should have told her, but Sandstripe had told him not to tell anyone. Besides, could he have trusted her, after what he had seen last night? Maybe, but he couldn't be sure. Suddenly he halted. A scent, just a fraction of a scent, had drifted to him. Mouse. Joy filling him at this find, he quickly fell into a crouch, his eyes searching for gray fur, ears listening for tiny paws on the ground. But nothing came to him. What's going on? he wondered, silently padding forward. Then he saw it. The corpse of a mouse. There was no visible injury, but the prominent ribs and bones jutting out said it all. This mouse had died of starvation. How many other mice had met this fate? If one had died, then surely there were others. As he started back, tail down, Snowfire realized something. This forest had no prey to offer them.

"Snowfire, slow down!" Sandstripe called from behind. Snowfire looked back and saw that she was having a difficult time in the deep snow, her being smaller than he was. It was now sunhigh. They had made it out of the forest, and were now in a large, hilly grassland - or what had been a grassland. Now, it was completely covered in sparkling snow. A beautiful sight, thought it only meant extra hours trying to trudge through the belly-deep snow. Even though they were wolves, they still were getting cold. Snowfire's legs were beginning to go numb. He couldn't even begin to imagine how Sandstripe felt. She was better fed from the plentiful meadows of StarClan, but even still, she looked freezing. Snowfire stopped where he was, allowing her to catch up. She panted, and he pressed his equally cold body against hers, hoping it would help a little. "Thanks," she said, eyes lighting up a little. "We just need to make it to those trees." Snowfire nodded to the distant forest ahead of them. "Then we can rest." She nodded, and they started off again, Snowfire now going slower in order for her to keep up. He wished Shadowsplash was here. The huge tom could have easily made it through this snow. He might have even been able to forge a path through it. Sandstripe looked over at him, straight into his eyes. "Do not lose hope, Snowfire. We've made it this far, and we're not going to give up, right?" "Right!" he said firmly, optimism stirring inside of him once more. They had a chance. A dim one, but a definite chance.

Night was falling fast as Snowfire sat down in his freshly dug hole. He was relieved to feel the ground beneath him. Frozen, yes, but it was much better than cold, wet snow. Sandstripe appeared, her golden pelt standing out against the dark trees, holding two thin chaffinches in her jaws. Snowfire's heart leaped. He forced himself to wait patiently until she dropped one down before him. The second it hit the ground, his tore into it, tearing away what little meat was on its bones. "You were hungry," she observed, amused, though she too was biting eagerly into her meal. "Thank StarClan this forest has some prey." The word StarClan sounded strange coming from her. She was from StarClan, but he had never heard her speak the name so lightly. An old question dawned inside of Snowfire. "Sandstripe...I noticed something." Her eyes met his, curious. "You're..er...solid," he said uneasily. "I mean, you know...you're...." "Alive?" Sandstripe guessed. He nodded. "Yes. StarClan has granted me three days to get you to Stormstar.  I have been born again," she explained. "It took a lot of energy from the other StarClan warriors. They had to pour their own strength into me, so that I would have enough to stay alive." "So...today was your first day?" Snowfire asked, trying to calculate it in his mind. She nodded. "My first day was today. Tomorrow is my second.  The next day is my third and final day.  Then, I will die and go back to StarClan," she said. Her voice was sad. "Oh." Snowfire felt as though a rock had been dropped down his throat. Sandstripe would die again? Was that possible? "I am sorry. I have upset you.  Come on, let's get some rest." Now Sandstripe sounded distant, as though she did not want to talk anymore. Snowfire nodded vaguely, exhaustion already threatening to overtake him. Bidding his companion goodnight, he settled down and was instantly asleep.

The next day brought the same hardships: winds that howled like wolves, an infinite amount of snowfall, and icy cold that sliced across their bodies like claws. (Content will be added on soon).

Chapter 6 ~ The Lone Shadow
"Shadowsplash!" Blizzardstar called from Howling Rock. "Go and organize a hunting patrol!" Shadowsplash nodded wearily, slowly getting to his feet. He refrained from telling his leader that he had already been on two hunting patrols that day. They had been unsuccessful, as usual, but they still had taken a toll on his energy. But the Clan needs fresh-kill, he kept telling himself. You have to defend the Clan. It's what Sandstripe wanted. A pang hit him as the golden she-cat entered his mind. He had missed her, and he had only been able to see her for a few brief moments. He remembered their whispered conversation when they had said goodbye. "Does Snowfire know?" he had asked. "No. I trust that Stormstar will tell him," was her answer. "Oh. Is he really alive?" "Yes. He is safe.  But when he returns, he will have to defend his pride, in more ways than one." Shadowsplash was still trying to decipher what that meant. In more ways than one? What ways were there already? There had been much talk of Snowfire, seeing as it was the day after his departure. The toms absence had been felt by everyone, even the youngest kit and oldest elder. Dawntail was in a state, refusing to leave the den, barely eating. Shadowsplash had tried to comfort her, but she had refused to listen. Many rumors had surfaced in the quiet murmurs heard, mainly from apprentices and warriors. Some said he was on a great quest, which was true. Some said he was sad about Petalstripe, which was partly true. And some said he had left to avoid starving with all of them, and had labeled him a coward, which was ridiculously untrue. The latter reason had come from mainly Otterwind and his apprentice, Pinepaw. Shadowsplash had harshly defended Snowfire against that rumor, which aroused much suspicion around the Clan that he knew why Snowfire was gone. He shook the thoughts away, trying to clear his head. Realizing he still had no hunting patrol, he hurriedly looked around camp, searching for available warriors. He spotted Mouseheart washing himself near the den. But besides him, there was no one else except... Petalstripe. Did he really have to patrol with her? After what had happened the other night? Shadowsplash sighed. He would get Mouseheart first. "Want to go hunting?" he asked the tom, padding up to him. Mouseheart nodded and was by his side in an instant. "Who else is going?" he asked. "No one left but her," Shadowsplash replied, indicating the tortoiseshell with his head. Together, they approached Petalstripe. She saw Mouseheart first, and looked okay with him. Then her eyes found Shadowsplash, and they narrowed as he stopped before her. "What is it?" she hissed in irritation. "Want to come hunting?" Shadowsplash tried to sound casual. "Isn't there anyone else to go?" she grumbled. Mouseheart shook his head. "Oh, fine," she said, standing up and shaking the snow from her fur. "Let's go." The three now headed for the barrier. Shadowsplash noticed that Petalstripe kept far away from him, still glaring at him. I don't get what I did. I'm not her mate, so I couldn't have done anything. Although I guess I was her mentor.... Trying to focus on hunting instead of Petalstripe, he led the other two through the barrier and out into the forest. "Why don't we split up?" he suggested as they continued their journey to the Old Pine, where the most prey had been found. Mouseheart agreed, as did Petalstripe, only she did it with a growl in his direction. The two toms exchanged glances. "She is really upset," Mouseheart muttered. "You can say that again."

Shadowsplash was in a moonlit forest, free of snow and cold, the stars shining through the leafy tree branches. '"Shadowsplash!" a huge, dark gray wolf called, his green eyes shining in the night. "Shadowsplash!" Shadowsplash knew that wolf. "Stormstar!" he responded joyfully, rushing to where his brother stood before him. "No, Shadowsplash, run!" Stormstar warned, eyes widening. "You'll be-" Before he could say anything else, a dark shape threw him down. Shadowsplash looked to see glowing amber eyes staring deep into his, and the faint outline of a striped creature. Redstar. The huge tiger stepped over Stormstar's dead body and came toward him, growling menacingly. Shadowsplash was too stunned to move, Redstar's teeth were inches from his throat... Shadowsplash's eyes snapped open to reveal the den around him. Stormstar and Redstar weren't there, only the sleeping warriors. It had been a dream. But it had been so real. Shadowsplash couldn't even describe it. He had seen it, right before his eyes...Stormstar being killed.... What if Snowfire never found him? What if the only time he ever saw him was in nightmares like the one had just woken from? I must believe in Snowfire. I can't lose hope. He promised to come back. I must keep my own promise to Sandstripe. I must defend the Clan. But at what costs will it be?

The next day went by normally, although Shadowsplash was haunted by his dream, and talk of Snowfire still floated around camp. No signs from StarClan came, the borders were untouched, everything was fine. But Shadowsplash was quiet. He had always been quiet, but now, he was completely quiet. He didn't talk all day. Petalstripe was quiet too, although she looked angry. Shadowsplash thought nothing of it until Blizzardstar called him into his den from the Howling Rock. "Shadowsplash, may I speak with you alone for a minute?" he asked, leaping down and beckoning him closer. Shadowsplash obliged, following the leader into the den. It was small compared to his huge size, and he had to duck his head to enter. Blizzardstar sat down on a large nest of moss and feathers, the ceiling above him decorated with white flowers pressed into mud, which was now dry and flaking. Shadowsplash stared for a moment. He had not been in this den since his brothers tenure as leader. And then the memories flowed into his head. The den had been large, in order to compensate for the huge tom, so that he would not have to duck as Shadowsplash had. The nest had been simpler, with no feathers, and no flowers adorning the walls. Plain and simple, efficiency before comfort. That was how Stormstar liked it. Shadowsplash had often spent parts of the night with his brother, talking about their lives and planning for different things. Blizzardstar, Blizzardstripe then, had been present too. It was almost like Stormstar had had two deputies. Shadowsplash missed those nighttime talks, just as he missed his brother... "Something wrong, Shadowsplash?" Blizzardstar's voice pulled Shadowsplash back to the present. He shook his head, both in answer and in attempt to clear the memories from it. "Well then, on to what I wanted to say," the leader began, looking at the tom with level eyes. "Shadowsplash, I was wondering...do you know why Snowfire left? I saw you arguing with Otterwind yesterday.  You seem to know something." Shadowsplash quickly searched for an answer. Blizzardstar had seen him? Blast! He would need to be more careful about what he said... "Blizzardstar, I was only trying to hush up all of the rumors. The Clan shouldn't be focusing on Snowfire's absence.  We need to work on surviving and keeping LionClan at bay," he tried, hoping it would work. "Are you sure?" Blizzardstar pressed, his eyes taking on a suspicious glint. "I'm sure," Shadowslash said firmly. What would his leader ask next? Thankfully, Blizzardstar nodded, the glint vanishing. "I didn't think so. I was only thinking...but, anyway, Shadowsplash...I had another question." Shadowsplash had a feeling he knew what was about to come out of Blizzardstar's mouth... "Why do you think your brother left?" I knew it. Well, at least I can be honest on this one. "Blizzardstar, I don't know. I've been asked countless times, and that's always been my answer.  I've been thinking about it myself, but I can't seem to find a reason.  All I know was that...he didn't do it out of cowardice," Shadowsplash answered, finishing strongly. "And how do you know that?" Blizzardstar's voice suddenly turned icy. Shadowsplash was astonished. He had never heard his leader speak like that before. For some reason, he grew angry at that tone. "He would never abandon his Clan! Never!  My brother was a good leader, warrior, and friend!  He loved this Clan more than anything else!  He'd give every life he had to protect it!  That I know!" He rose, voice rising with his body. "You think you know? You honestly think you know?" Blizzardstar rose as well, leaping from his nest to face the larger tom. "I am his brother, for StarClan's sake! I was the closest cat to him!" Shadowsplash roared. "He left our Clan! His warriors went with him!  Our Clan nearly fell out of existence thanks to him!" Blizzardstar shot back, eyes blazing. Their faces were barely a mouselength apart. Shadowsplash shortened the gap with his next words. "He was a better leader than you are! He would have ripped LionClan apart for killing Sunstreak, and Skyflight!  He would have tried to stop this hunger instead of sit in his den and ponder why a warrior had left!  He would have-he would have made WolfClan great!" The minute he finished, he knew that he had done it. Blizzardstar seemed to inflate with rage. The fur on his back stood straight up, and his jaws opened in a loud hiss. "Out! Get out!" Shadowsplash gave on last defiant growl, then charged out of the den, colliding headlong with Petalstripe. "Ouch!" she yowled, falling to the ground in a heap. "Watch where you're-" She stopped at the sight of him. "Oh, it's you," she said coldly. Shadowsplash didn't have time to deal with her. He raced past, raced straight through the entrance and into the forest. He didn't stop until he reached the border where Snowfire had gone. Sorrow, anger, and pain welled inside of him, and he fell to the ground, shaking, crying out in grief. Stormstar...Snowfire...you have left me! There's no one else to go to! Our Clan is going downhill, and there's nothing I can do to stop it! I am alone.

Chapter 7 ~ Sand's Belief, Storm's Decision
Snowfire's legs ached with exhaustion as he trudged through the forest, Sandstripe beside him. Both were covered head to foot in white powder, heads bent low to shield them from the icy wind. They were getting close. All they had to do was get through this forest, cross the river, and head across a meadow to another forest. Where Stormstar waited. But it would cost Sandstripe. Today was her last day. At sundown, she would be gone. Snowfire could feel it. He felt her strength dissipating, slowly but surely. Even now, she barely was able to keep up with him at the pace he was going. She was panting heavily, her chest heaving. They passed the last tree. In the middle of the meadow, Snowfire could see the river. It was still, completely frozen, dusted with snow. Suddenly, behind him, Sandstripe fell, her legs unable to hold her up. Snowfire immediately turned around and helped her up. However, she shook uncontrollably from exhaustion and cold. "Sandstripe," he said, practically howling over the wind, "let me carry you." "No," she answered. "I can make it." But with the first few steps she fell again. "Sandstripe, please," Snowfire begged, "save your strength. You don't have much time." She only nodded vaguely. Very carefully, Snowfire slid his head under her body, then lifted her onto his shoulders. Her legs dangled limply on either side of him, barely skimming the snow. Thankfully, she wasn't very heavy. But Snowfire didn't have much strength left in his body. Now with Sandstripe on his back, it took him twice as long to reach the river. The wind buffeted his face, only making things worse. The long trek seemed like years, every step like a moon. Finally, he was on the edge of the frozen water. Very cautiously, he placed a paw out to test the ice. Luckily, it didn't break under his weight, and soon, he was crossing. He has halfway across when he heard the crack. "Snowfire, run!" Sandstripe called, also hearing it. But her warning came too late. The ice all around Snowfire shattered, opening a huge hole of black water. He quickly tried to throw Sandstripe away from the break. If she went under, she'd be gone for sure. Freezing water, a thousand times colder than the air, instantly pulled Snowfire down, completely covering him, tossing him around. He desperately struggled, searching blindly for an opening, but all he hit was the ice sheet. Again and again he banged into it, hoping it might break from the impact, but all it did was bring more pain to his side. He wouldn't be able to hold his breath much longer... Suddenly, teeth seized his scruff, and he felt air hit his body again. The water slowly lost its hold on him, and he felt himself being dragged across the ice, until finally he was laid down in powdery snow. Snowfire was panting, gasping, trying to breathe as he coughed up water. A body fell against his, bringing a little warmth to his soaked, freezing body. His eyes opened, and he saw golden fur... "Sandstripe," he murmured. His companion was barely there. She lay against him, green eyes half-closed, her breaths soft and shallow. "It's time for me to go," she whispered, her voice exhausted. "No, Sandstripe!" A sudden bolt of energy rushed through him, and his voice was strong again. He nudged the wolf, trying to keep her with him. "Yes, Snowfire. You have been so brave," she told him. Snowfire licked the top of her head. He could see the snow through her now-translucent body. She was fading... "Snowfire. Look at me," she commanded, with her old authorative air. Snowfire obeyed, meeting her green irises for one last time. "You must find Stormstar. You must not give up hope!" She suddenly sounded strong again, her face full of desperation. Snowfire watched with wide eyes. "You must help him, Snowfire, help him to regain his pride. He's been through so much, so many terrible things.  You have to help him." "I will," Snowfire promised softly. "Don't let him be alone anymore," she pleaded. Snowfire was shocked. He had never seen Sandstripe like this before, so sad and desperate. "Snowfire..." He stared into her eyes, trying to burn their color and beauty into his mind forever. "I believe....in you..." Her voice was sincere. And then she was gone. Grief immediately seized Snowfire, and he lay down where she had, closing his eyes and falling into darkness.

The frigid air woke Snowfire the next morning. His pelt was dry, but he was chilled to the very bone. The absence of Sandstripe felt like a weight on his head, and he found it hard to get up and continue moving. Every muscle in his body ached, his stomach roared with hunger, and his mouth was dry as sand. Still, he knew he had to finish this journey. For Sandstripe. For Shadowsplash. For Stormstar. For WolfClan. The snow had deepened even more, soaking Snowfire's belly fur and his legs, only adding to his discomfort. Many times he stumbled through large piles of white powder, often nearly falling into them. The sun was shrouded by an endless army of white and gray clouds, signaling that more snow was on the way. At least leafbare was nearly over, so maybe the journey home wouldn't be as bad. If there was a journey home. Right now, it didn't feel like there would be to Snowfire. Finally, at around sunhigh, he collapsed, unable to continue. The snow felt so good on his aching body, and he lay there and closed his eyes, letting sleep take him again.... Snowfire opened to his eyes to see StarClan's meadows. The sun warmed his pelt, the grass brushed his paws, and birds chirped and flew through the clear sky. And then a familiar wolf appeared. "Skyflight!" Snowfire burst out in joy, rushing forward to greet his old friend. Skyflight looked strong and healthy, his glossy white coat hinting that he was well-fed. His blue eyes sparkled with wisdom, blazing with joy. "Snowfire!" he cried. "It's so good to see you again!" The next few moments were filled with Snowfire updating Skyflight on life in WolfClan. Then, Snowfire realized something.. "Am I dead?" he asked fearfully. "Of course not. You have a destiny," said another familiar voice, deep and calm. Snowfire turned to see Sunstreak padding toward him. "Father," he breathed. "Snowfire, you are only here because we have called you here, just for a moment," his father explained. "But why?" "You need encouragement. You must keep going, Snowfire.  You must," Sunstreak answered. "Sandstripe didn't take you this far so that you could give up. We didn't pour our energy into her for it to be wasted." "Is she here?" Snowfire looked around, hoping to see the golden she-cat again. He already missed her green gaze, her commanding voice, her thoughtfulness. But Sunstreak shook his head. "She is recovering. She wanted to come see you, but we refused to let her.  Seeing her would only keep you from moving forward," he explained. "I understand," Snowfire said quietly, his heart sinking. "Do not dwell in grief. You must go on, Snowfire.  Sandstripe left nothing behind for you to remember her by, that way you would be held back in the past." "You have a Clan to save," Skyflight added. His words made him sound wise beyond his years. Their encouragement seemed to restore Snowfire's energy and vigilance, and he nodded. "I will!" he promised. "Then it is time for you to return. Remember, Snowfire, you must always go on..." Sunstreak's voice followed Snowfire all the way back to where he lay. The frozen meadow replaced the green one. Very slowly, the warrior got up, shaking snow from his pelt. I must listen to my father. I must continue this journey, he thought, starting forward again. The forest was close now. Soon, he would see Stormstar. But a while later, Snowfire was doubting that. His energy was gone, his strength spent. He stopped by a clump of frozen bushes, panting hard, legs shaking. "Father, I'm sorry...I tried to listen...I can't go..any longer..." he muttered as he curled beside them. Even with the trees, the wind still howled fiercely, breaking through his fur and freezing his body. Snowfire shivered and curled his body up even tighter. "It's over," he whispered. "WolfClan will be destroyed, and it's all my fault." Just as his eyes were about to close, a dark shape appeared in distance, slowly coming toward him. As it approached, Snowfire could make out the shape of a...wolf. Was it Stormstar? Had he come to save him? However, this wolf was not Stormstar, as he realized when she stopped before him. This wolf was small and slender, with a blue-gray pelt and bright blue eyes. "Who are you?" she asked in a cold voice not unlike the air around her, her ears pinned back, teeth bared slightly. She was very young, not much older than he was. "I am Snowfire of WolfClan," he answered with courage. He was not afraid of her. "Why have you come here?" she pressed, leaning closer. "I have come...to see Stormstar." Her eyes widened. "What does WolfClan want?" The cold tone vanished, replaced by a surprised one. Clearly, she had not been expecting this at all. "You'll find out if you take me to Stormstar. You're one of his warriors, aren't you?" "Alright, then," she said, sounding amused and impressed by his reply. "I'll take you to him." Snowfire tried to get up on his own, but, in the end, she had to help him, and even then he had to lean on her for support. She looked much better fed than he was, all of her bones well-covered, while his stuck out of his pelt. "I'm Raingaze, by the way," she told him cheerfully as they started off. She must have gotten over the fact he was an intruder pretty quickly. As they traveled, Snowfire caught the scent of wolves. He knew it was Stormtstar's wolves, but still, it made him supress a shudder. These wolves were much stronger than he, half-starved and exhausted, was. They might not take his entrance lightly. Finally, they reached a clearing, surrounding by a circle of trees. A large thornbush, not unlike the warriors den back at home, sat to the right. Another, smaller bush, was on the left. "The warriors sleep there," Raingaze whispered, indicating the thornbush with a nod of her head. She stepped forward. "Everyone, get out here! We have a visitor!" she cried. Nerves made Snowfire's skin crawl as at least wolves poured from the den. They all saw Snowfire, and expressions ranging from shocked to angry appeared on their faces. "Well, what have we here?" a large, russet-colored one growled, circling Snowfire, his eyes traveling up and down his body. "Doesn't look like much." "Why is he here?" another one, this time jet black, asked suspiciously, staring at Snowfire's face. "You shouldn't have brought him, Raingaze!" a sandy female said harshly. "Give him a chance!" a beautiful, pure white female snapped at her, glaring. "Stop!" a deep voice howled. Everyone instantly quieted as a huge, dark gray, almost black, wolf with smoky gray tones stepped forward The wolf Snowfire had seen in the ice...the wolf Shadowsplash had described to him... Stormstar. The lost leader of WolfClan. Stormstar fixed his haunting, dark green eyes, burning with a cold fire, on the russet wolf, whom he was at least twice the size of. Muscles snaked up his legs, showing in his lean body. "What's going on, Brindleclaw?" he asked calmly, though there was a hard edge to his voice. "Ask Raingaze," he answered. "She brought him." Stormstar now turned to Raingaze, who didn't falter. She met his eyes evenly. "I found him lying in the forest off our territory. He said he was from WolfClan and wanted to see you," she explained. And now, at last, Stormstar locked his eyes on Snowfire. Though he was a little afraid, Snowfire remained calm. "And why do you want to see me?" Stormstar asked, circling him as Brindleclaw had, nearly brushing against his pelt. "My name is Snowfire. I was sent by StarClan to come and find you, and bring you back to WolfClan," Snowfire replied. "And who, may I ask, sent you?" the leader pressed. "A StarClan warrior. Her name was...Sandstripe." Grief pierced his heart as he said the name. Stormstar's eyes widened. Several wolves gasped. "Stormstar..." Brindleclaw breathed. Clearly, they had known Sandstripe well. The fire in Stormstar's eyes grew. "And why does WolfClan need me?" he demanded, now sounding a bit angry. "We are in danger. LionClan and TigerClan are planning to destroy our Clan.  Sandstripe said you would be able to help us." "How do I know you're not lying?" Stormstar asked suspiciously. "Why would I come all the way out here just to lie to you? Sandstripe was reborn for three days to accompany me.  She died last night, by the river.  I would not waste her energy like that," Snowfire shot back, angered at his question. How dare he suggest he was lying! But Stormstar only nodded, looking a bit impressed by his answer. "I believe your story. I will decide now, so you will not be kept waiting," he said before going silent, thinking hard. Snowfire looked at the ground, unable to meet the eyes of the wolves around him. His fur grew hot. Raingaze pressed against him sympathetically, and he was grateful for it. Now Stormstar was talking quietly with Brindleclaw. After another few moments, he looked back to Snowfire. "We will come." Hope rose in Snowfire's chest, only to be shot down by his next words. "On one condition," he began. "Brindleclaw requests that you prove yourself. Tomorrow morning, at dawn, you will fight him.  Not to the death, but so that we know that you are worthy of this destiny and that you were truly sent by StarClan." He spoke like he knew of Snowfire's entire quest. Dread filled Snowfire now. He had to fight Brindleclaw? When he was this weak? He would never be able to do it! "I accept," he said heavily. Stormstar ndoded. "Go get some rest. Blackfoot, go find him something to eat!" he said to the black wolf, who immediately nodded and left. Then, Stormstar turned and disappeared into his den. The rest of the wolves retreated to their own den, except for Raingaze and Snowfire. "Come, I'll show you where to sleep," she offered kindly, leading him into the dark den. After carefully stepping over the others, they made their way to the back. A single empty nest was there. "Mine," Raingaze said as she began to build Snowfire his own, gathering up loose moss and feathers and shaping the pile until it was just like hers. Snowfire thanked her, then, without any encouragement, fell into the nest and was instantly asleep. Sunstreak, Sandstripe, Skyflight...I hope you are proud. Shadowsplash, WolfClan...I hope you are safe. Stormstar...I hope you listen. I hope I can save my Clan.