Forgotten

Prologue
In a dark shadowed alley way a brown tabby bound after a black she-cat. “Midnight, they are coming!” He screeched. A small grey kit dashed after the brown tabby tom. “Get Stormy, Ed!” The jet black she-cat yelled, her eyes wide as a group of cats dashed after them. The brown tabby nodded and scooped up the grey kit by the scruff.

“She's come to kill us! It's that one you said was called Wolf!” Ed hissed between pants as the two raced away from the group of cats. Midnight gave Ed a hard look, “I can see!” The group seemed to have lost their scent. The short-haired she-cat and her family were safe.

Then suddenly from around the corner a long-haired black she-cat stepped out, her brown eyes narrowed. “Oakstripe, why are you here?” The long haired she-cat's voice was as a calm as the night sky.

The brown tabby stepped forward, eyes narrowed as well, “Why are you here, Wolfheart?” He spat out the she-cat's name. Midnight watched the two through widened eyes.

“Ed, you were a clan cat? I always thought that you might be, from the stories you told me!” The short-haired black she-cat meowed. The brown tabby took no noticed of his mate, he watched Wolfheart through narrowed eyes.

“I ran, Oakstripe, I ran away,” Wolfheart paused eyeing Midnight, “ Did you fall in love with this she-cat and leave ShadowClan? I knew you were always power-hungry and I would never have thought of you doing that!” Wolfheart sneered, her voice more icy then before. Oakstripe let out a loud growl his eyes ablaze. He took one step forward.

“Midnight cares for me as I do to her. She listens to me!” He insisted, glancing at Midnight and his kit, Stormy. Stormy huddled by Midnight.

“Well, Ed, I'm going to have to drive you out. This is NightClan's place,” Wolfheart mewed her eyes growing sharp, her claws unsheathed. Midnight let out a hiss, “What? This is a rogue place. No one has territories!” The brown tabby touched Midnight lightly with his tail.

“She is right!” He spat and turned to his mate, “Remember the stories I told you of the mass murderer? That is her!” With that Oakstripe launched himself at the shaggy black she-cat.

The she-cat dodged to the side and sliced at the tabby tom's flank before hissing, “You should never pick fights with me, Oakstripe!” The tabby tom turned and screeched as claws pierced his ears and jaw. He managed to slashed at Wolfheart's muzzle before being shoved by the shaggy she-cat to the ground.

“Will you go?” She asked him as he whimpered on the ground. “N-never for you, killer!” he spat back. Wolfheart frowned and looked up to his family. She gave a small nod to Midnight before pelting to the shadows, not because of fear but because of the Warrior Code that she still wanted to follow.

“Ed?” Midnight mewed as she reached the bloody tabby tom. He opened his eyes, now dull and full of only a small spark of life. He whispered something in her ear.

Midnight nodded solemnly. Her ice-blue eyes glinted in the moonlight, she had been asked to get what she had always wanted most, power.

Chapter 1
Frostshine padded through the marshy undergrowth. It was a nice breezy day, the best for hunting. The early morning sun shone on Forstshine's silver coat. Her thick silver pelt stood out among the green moss and brown debris of the marsh, making it harder for her to hunt. Suddenly an odd scent hit her nose. It was another cat, not of any of the clans!

Frostshine leaped at the moving bushes. She saw a black she-cat with a mouse in her jaws and started tackling her. “That's our prey!” Frostshine hissed at the black rogue. The black she-cat let out an hiss of annoyance and meowed, “Would you stop attacking me?” Frostshine didn't want to stop but backed off.

“Well, I wouldn't be angry at me, if I were you. I would be thankful for a warrior letting me off that easy for stealing prey!” Frostshine spat back.

“So you don't want any visitors with gifts? I just want to visit ShadowClan!” The black she-cat shot back her glassy blue eyes growing with impatience. She knows of ShadowClan?

Frostshine narrowed her eyes and took at step towards the she-cat, hoping to intimidate the intruder. “What do you want, anyway?” The fluffy she-cat growled. The black she-cat held her head high and spoke to Frostshine like Frostshine was a mouse-brained kit, “I wish to speak to Owlstar.”

Surprised sparked within Frostshine, this cat knew a lot about the clans. She knows a lot about my clan! Frostshine noticed. Frostshine wasn't sure how to act, she had never met an intruder who knew ShadowClan's leader's name.

“Er, come this way,” Frostshine mewed, a little nicer this time. The she-cat followed her head still up high. Frostshine didn't like this she-cat at all, she just knew to much and acted very arrogant.

“Frostshine?” It was Frogleg. Frostshine felt her heart skip a beat, she was really really fond of Frogleg. She didn't want to admit it but she loved Frogleg.

“I found this she-cat on our territory!” Frostshine exclaimed, flicking her tail to the black she-cat who stood even taller and mewed will confidence, “My name is Midnight!” Frogleg narrowed his eyes and twitched his light brown tail.

“When can I speak to Owlstar? It's important,” Midnight asked. Frogleg narrowed his eyes even more.

“I'll take her, Frostshine. You hunt some more, I'll bring her to Owlstar,” Frogleg mewed coolly after a moment, not taking his eyes off Midnight. Midnight dipped her head and padded off, following Frogleg. Frostshine stayed where she was, watching them pad off through the brambles and holly bushes.

Frostshine studied Midnight more, she was jet black with bright blue eyes. Her voice was tingly and full of authority though she seem only as old as a young warrior. And She acts like she owns ShadowClan, Frostshine added in her head.

What does she have to say, anyway? Curiosity crept into Frostshine, like a weed. Instead of hunting Frosthine bound home, just in time to see Midnight arrive at camp.

Chapter 2
“And this is our new visitor, Midnight!”Owlstar mewed. Most of the clan nodded. Only Frogleg and Frostshine watched Owlstar announce Midnight to the clan through narrowed eyes.

Appleleaf padded over to Frostshine, “Why are you so uneasy?” She asked, resting her tail tip on Frostshine's silver shoulder. Frostshine wasn't sure if she should tell Appleleaf about Midnight. Of course, she is my best friend!

“When I escorted Midnight to Frogleg, I noticed that she knew a lot about ShadowClan,” I whispered to Appleleaf.

Lizardfang passed by with a sparrow in his jaws. Lizardfang was ShadowClan's strict deputy. His eyes narrowed as he saw Appleleaf and Frostshine whispering to each other. “Don't you have anything else to do? Go hunting!” He barked across the clearing.

Frostshine nodded slowly and gave Appleleaf a meaningful glance that only Appleleaf and Frostshine knew what it meant, Meet me at our place. Appleleaf dashed out of camp but Frostshine looked up at Owlstar. He was talking to Midnight, who was now smiling. It seemed that Owlstar had befriended Midnight, already. I wondering what she has told him. Frostshine made her way to the camp tunnel, as she caught Lizardfang's watchful eye.

“Yes, he forgot about patrols yesterday.” Voices startled Frostshine as she padded silently out of camp. She scented Darkfern and Cloudtail discussing issues by the camp entrance.

“Poppytail says he's been forgettin' a lot lately. She's the medicine cat, so I guess you're right.”

“He better retire. We don't want a mad leader in-” Cloudtail broke off as she saw Frostshine watching them.

“Er, let's go in camp, Cloudtail,” Darkfern muttered not looking at Frostshine as he began to pad away with Cloudtail. Is Owlstar really going crazy? Forgetting things? Owlstar was such a noble leader. How could ShadowClan lose him as leader? Would Lizardfang live up to Owlstar's standards? No, Lizardfang was to strict and demanding. He was a good deputy but as leader he would lead the clan into chaos.

Frostshine stopped by a few old stumps. As apprentices, Applelaf and Frostshine had found an underground cave, while hunting. It was a tight squeeze between the large roots of the stumps before opening up into a wide cavern den.

At first Frostshine had been by the Shimmering walls of the cavern. The walls reflected the light from outside, making the rock shimmer and glitter. Now the rock walls made Frostshine feel secure.

Appleleaf's amber eyes suddenly appeared at the entrance between the roots.

“I saw it, Frostshine! She killed him with one swipe!” Appleleaf hissed.

Chapter 3
“Get in here!” Appleleaf added, her voice squawking, like she was forcing it out. Frostshine was speechless and followed Appleleaf into the cave den. Both she-cat's stood there, staring at each other. Frostshine was trying to make sense of Appleleaf's words.

“Who killed who?” Frostshine finally found her voice. Appleleaf's fur bristled, her eyes ablaze. Frostshine had never seen her friend in this state. Appleleaf was usually calm and quiet.

“I came here before you. I waited, then I saw Lizardfang appear out of nowhere. I think he followed me, or something,” Appleleaf began, starting to settle down.

“I thought he would see me or scent me for sure, but then she came and struck him down. He took one blow to the neck and he was dead.”

Frostshine felt herself bristle. “I knew Midnight was up to something!” She muttered her eyes dark. Appleleaf took a step closer to Frostshine.

“What happened?” Appleleaf prompted. Frostshine gulped, trying to calm herself down.

“When I escorted her, she already knew about Owlstar, ShadowClan and borders. She was really anxious to speak to Owlstar.” Frostshine explained, breathlessly. Appleleaf nodded, slowly, her mind deep in thought. Both she-cats thought for a many moments, in silence.

Finally Frostshine's voice disturbed the silence, “I must tell Owlstar right away. He needs to know!” Appleleaf shook her head, instantly.

“Do you not know that Owlstar is going mad? He won't believe you!” Appleleaf hissed. Frostshine frowned.

“Owlstar is your leader, as he is mine. He must know about murders.” With that Frostshine dashed out of their secret place, before Appleleaf could stop her. Frostshine had never ran so fast or so far in her life.

Frostshine burst through the vines of the camp entrance. She tried to slow her pace to look more casual. Then she saw a big lump of patchy, dusky brown fur lying in the camp. It was Lizardfang.

Only a few were mourning for him. Oddly, Owlstar was not one of them. He must be in his den. Maybe he doesn’t even know. I must tell him who Lizardfang's murderer is! A spark of determination flashed through Frostshine.

Before heading to Owlstar's den she stopped by Lizardfang's body. Midnight should not have killed you! Frostshine thought. You didn't deserve this. You deserve to be deputy. Even though Frostshine disliked Lizardfang, the elders were always going on about how Lizardfang had such a hard life. Frostshine wasn't sure what had happened to him, but he was a good deputy.

“Owlstar?” Frostshine called into his woven den. “Come in!” Owlstar's voice did sound a little weak. Your just imagining it!

Frostshine hurried into the den and was about to speak when she spotted Midnight's jet black pelt, her eyes piercing Frostshine's pelt.

When Midnight spoke, her voice was still tingly, but had a very steep edge to it. It made Frostshine shiver.

“What is it, Frostshine?”

Chapter 4
“I-um- came to see if you knew who killed Lizardfang.” Frostshine replied, trying to hide her how surprised she was.

Before Owlstar could speak, Midnight cut it, “You think he would know? Lizardfang was one of his closest friends, Frostshine, he would exile them on the spot!” Let him speak, Midnight!

Frostshine wasn't sure what to say next. “Well, uh, tell me if you find anything.” Midnight narrowed her ice blue eyes, “No, tell me if you find anything.”

Frostshine, left with her heartbeat as loud as thunder. Frostshine, did not plan on leaving though. Once behind a clump of ivy, Frostshine waited and listened.

“I'm sure that Appleleaf murdered Lizardfang,” Midnight hissed as soon as she thought Frostshine had left. Midnight must have scented Appleleaf! Oh no!

“Are you sure? She is so kind... Isn't she?” Owlstar murmured his voice full of no confidence. How could Owlstar be so weak? He needed to make a stand for what he believed. Not listen to Midnight's lies! What does Midnight want anyway?

“She killed him!” Midnight replied, instantly. Frostshine felt anger bubble up in her throat. How could Midnight do this and get away?

“Her scent was all over Lizardfang. Anyways, Remember you told me that she was begging you to be deputy only a few sunrises ago? I think she wants to be deputy...” Midnight explained. Right when Midnight said it, Frostshine knew what Midnight wanted. “I think she wants to be deputy” No, Midnight wants to be deputy. Then leader. She wants power!

In the silence, Frostshine could picture Owlstar nodded slowly, still unsure about what was right and what was wrong.

“Midnight, I keep forgetting things...” Owlstar croaked, slowly, sounding even more troubled.

“That's why you need me, Owlstar. I can tell you all I know. You can count on me!” Midnight meowed sweetly. Her tone made Frostshine wrinkle her nose in disgust.

Owlstar purred half-heartily, “Thank-you, Midnight.”

Frostshine couldn't stand to hear anymore and was about to turn away when paws held her back. What now?! “What did he say?” It was Appleleaf. She must have returned to camp.

Frostshine stared at Appleleaf for a long time, trying to comprehend what she had just heard.“She accused you for murdering Lizardfang,” Frostshine replied.

Appleleaf's mouth dropped open.

Chapter 5
“So you didn't tell Owlstar it was Midnight?” Appleleaf asked, her voice full of bewilderment. Frostshine nodded slowly, feeling sorry for her friend. Appleleaf was in a position that Frostshine would never want to be in.

Appleleaf's eyes filled with fiery determination, Frsotshine had never seen in Appleleaf's eyes.

“I must tell Owlstar!” Appleleaf meowed. Frostshine was unsure. What would Midnight do if she was accused?

Appleleaf marched into Owlstar's den, her head held high, but her eyes were filled with anxiousness. I hope Owlstar will see the truth and get rid of Midnight and her lies! Then ShadowClan will trust their leader, again.

After many moments of waiting, Owlstar, followed by Appleleaf and Midnight padded out of the den and up onto the VineyRock. The VineyRock was where Owlstar called clan meetings.

“May all cats of ShadowClan gather under the VineyRock for a clan meeting!” Owlstar's voice rang out among the camp. Frostshine was impressed by how strong his voice sounded, but Frostshine could tell it was fake. The almost silent camp, began to stir as warriors, apprentices, queens and elders padded to the centre of camp. Midnight was eyeing the clan, her ice blue eyes as sharp as ever.

Frostshine caught Appleleaf's eye and saw icy fear in her bright amber eyes. What's wrong? What happened in Owlstar's den?!

“You probably all know by know that Lizardfang has, uh, been... murdered,” Owlstar started, his voice trailing off at times. Frostshine saw the clan begin to whisper about how he was going crazy.

“See? His mind is wandering,” Darkfern mewed to Swampheart, Darkfern's sister.

“He is just grief-stricken,” Pinenose, an elder, tried to convince Darkfern, her yellow eyes filled with a slight fear. Darkfern shrugged his shoulders.

“If any of you, um, know what happened and who killed Lizardfang...” Owlstar's voice made Frostshine look back up. As Owlstar trailed off, Midnight cut in, “Owlstar, you know who did it! Please remember.” No. No, she cannot accuse Appleleaf! Can she?

Owlstar frowned, then meowed, “Appleleaf's scent was found all over Lizardfang's body.” Most of the clan gasped, their eyes wide. They all knew Appleleaf was quiet and shy. How could you believe those lies, Owlstar?! Before Frostshine could yell out, Appeleaf stood up, her eyes angry, “Do you really think I did?” She hissed to the clan. Some let out yowls of agreement, but most stayed silent.

“She must be exiled!” Midnight snarled as she pushed Appleleaf off the VineyRock. Frostshine caught Frogleg's eye. He was not liking it either.

“Let Owlstar speak for himself!” Forstshine snarled at Midnight. Midnight narrowed her eyes at Frostshine, “Tell them, Owlstar.”

“Appleleaf shall be exiled. If she does not leave, she will be killed.” Owlstar meowed, dazed and not really thinking. No!

Midnight smiled. Her smile was as evil as they get.

Chapter 6
“I will not leave. I want the clan to know the truth!” Appleleaf's voice rang loud and clear through out the clearing. Midnight's smile faded. Before Appleleaf could continue, Midnight sprang onto Appleleaf's back.

“Leave or die!” Midnight yowled. Appleleaf let out a loud hiss and squirmed under Midnight's grip.

Frostshine let out a yowl and charged at Midnight, knocking her off of Appleleaf. “Give her a second chance to leave!” She hissed to Midnight.

“No!” Midnight meowed, her eyes as dark as the night, even though they were are bright as the bluesky. Appleleaf was now on her paws, glaring at Midnight.

“I will die serving justice,” Appleleaf meowed to Frostshine, her meow quiet enough for only Frostshine to hear. Frostshine felt her fur bristle as she saw Appleleaf leap at Midnight. Midnight didn't show any signs of being taken by surprise and batted Appleleaf away, her face drawn back in a snarl. She'll kill Appleleaf! Frostshine couldn't let her friend die. Frostshine lashed out at Midnight, just missing, but catching her attention.

“Your not part of this. If your smart, I suggest you cheer me on,” Midnight meowed, coolly. Frostshine hissed and was about to swipe at Midnight, before one of her own clanmates dragged her away.

Frostshine looked up to see Darkfern's dusky grey face. “What are you doing?! Midnight is saving our clan!” He hissed in her ear. Frostshine bristled, her mind racing. Was Appleleaf winning? Was Midnight actually trying to save ShadowClan? Did Darkfern actually think this? If so, how many more would believe this?

“I need to go back!” Frostshine pleaded. Darkfern gave her a look of fake pity, “Oh, well!” After a moment, Frostshine broke free from Darkfern's tight grip and ran to the VineyRock.

She got there just in time to see Midnight curl her claws around Appleleaf's neck.

Chapter 7
“No!” Frostshine screeched and raced to Appleleaf's body. Her neck was drenched in blood, her eyes squeezed shut. She let out many whimpers, clawing the ground. Frostshine felt her heartbeat slow, her head fall to her paws. Her best friend was dying. And Frostshine could do nothing about it.

Frostshine had so much to say and so little time. How could she put it all into a few moments? Frostshine leaned down, her eyes filling with tears.

“I will die serving justice,” She whispered into Appleleaf's blood ear. The mattered she-cat opened her eyes and stared at Frostshine for a long time, before finally closing them.

“Frostshine is plotting against ShadowClan, as well!” Darkfern's voice made Frostshine look up, her eyes weary. She saw Midnight give Darkfern a look of approval.

Before anyone could say anything, Frostshine bolted out of the camp. She wasn't going to waste her life on a one on one fight with Midnight. Whatever she would do, she would serve justice, but she wouldn't have an impact if she stayed in ShadowClan.

Frostshine burst through a leaf pile. Sending the dried leafs all over the forest floor. The late evening sun cast shadows on the marshy forest floor.

Her heart was pounding hard, like a drum against her chest. She looked back for an instant and saw Darkfern and his apprentice, Quickpaw chasing after her. What have my clanmates become?

Quickpaw has a savage look in his eyes, as if he finds this delightfully fun, hunting down his own clanmate. Darkfern's eyes are blank. His face is blank. It's like he doesn't know what he is doing, not really knowing, just doing. Run, run! Frostshine willed her legs, as they began to tire. She was almost at the border, she needed to get where they couldn't go. The only places were out of ShadowClan territory and in other clan territory.

The reek of WindClan border, hit her nose, giving Frostshine extra strength to make it there. She could feel Quickpaw's breath on her tail. No wonder he was called Quickpaw.

“Get her, she's almost at WindClan border. We cannot let a future murder escape!” Darkfern screamed to his apprentice as the border came into Frostshine's view. It was right by a dried up river bank.

Suddenly, Frostshine felt jaws clamp down on her fluffy tail. No, I'm almost there! Frostshine let out an angry yowl and thrashed free.

“Is ShadowClan mouse-brained enough to attack there own?” An amused voice sounded just a few foxlengths away from Frostshine. By the scent, it was WindClan.

Taken by surprise, Quickpaw let go of Frostshine's tail. Frostshine took that instant to dash across the border, letting out a sigh of relief on the other side.

The WindClan patrol gave her a look of confusion. “Gee, I don't know if you know, but you just ran onto our side of the border,” The tom that had spoken before meowed. Frostshine was out of breath. She just nodded instead of explaining.

“We should take her to Lilystar,” A slender grey she-cat mewed the tom.

“Y-es, I nee-d to speak to L-ilys-tar!” Frostshine tried to cut in between her gasps for air. Darkfern narrowed his eyes at Frostshine. “That warrior is having problems. Can you give her back? She'll cause to much trouble in your clan,” Darkfern pleaded.

The tom looked almost convinced before he turned to Frostshine. “Why don't you go home with your clanmates?” He asked. Frostshine had caught her breath and stared at the tom's broad tawny face.

“They are not my clanmates, anymore. Please, I need to talk to Lilystar. I will tell you everything on the way,” Frostshine replied, hoping that she would convenience the tom that she wasn't have crazy.

He nodded, slowly.

Chapter 8
“Then, your warriors found me, when Quickpaw caught my tail. If thy hadn't, I'd be dead,” Frostshine finished off explaining to Lilystar, WindClan's leader.

“Well, that's an interesting story, Frostshine,” Lilystar's meow didn't sound fully convinced. “If this is true, I would regret handing you back to ShadowClan. If it's not true, then you are a spy. ThunderClan do not tolerate spies, Frostshine.” They way Lilystar said Frostshine it made Frostshine stiffen.

Lilystar barely said anything at gatherings, she was very quiet every time Frostshine saw her. She was very egoistic and sometimes timid. Now, Lilystar was speaking more then Frostshine had every heard out of her.

“At the next gathering, you can observe ShadowClan. Maybe Midnight will be there,” Frostshine mewed, quickly. Why is it so hard for cats to believe me?!

Lilystar tilted her head to one side, running her paw in the sandy ground of her den.

Lilystar's voice sounded like she still didn't fully trust Frostshine, “That's fair, the Gathering is tomorrow. If there is no evidence, you will go back.” Frostshine shivered at the thought of meeting Midnight and Darkfern in battle.

Suddenly the tom from before padded into the den, “Shall I find her a place to rest?” Lilystar looked up, her eyes still deep in thought.

“Yes,” Lilystar sounded like her old quiet self, again. The tom dipped his head and padded out of the den, without looking back to see if Frostshine was following him. Everything is so much more peaceful and quiet in WindClan. They don't say much, at all!

“Eaglefeather, go get some rest. Hunting patrol tomorrow!” A familiar voice called to the tom in front of Frostshine. It was WindClan's deputy, Breezefire.

Eaglefeather flicked his mottled tail and glared at Breezefire, “Can't you see I'm busy?!” Maybe not peaceful. Breezefire snorted and stalked off. Frostshine wondered what was between Eaglefeather and Breezefire. Who cares about WindClan gossip! ShadowClan is crumbling, that's more important.

Eaglefeather swirled around a gorse bush and pointed his tail to a nest made of dry grass. It was isolated from the camp.“It may look uncomfortable, but that's the softest moss in WindClan territory,” He meowed, why Frostshine looked at it, gingerly.

Finally Frostshine flopped down into her nest. The half moon shone directly overhead. Frostshine shivered, it felt like the moon was watching her. She wasn't use to being so open.

Frostshine watched Eaglefeather start to pad away, but she needed to settle her racing mind before she went to sleep.

“Do you believe me?” Frostshine asked Eaglefeather. Eaglefeather paused and turned around, his green eyes deep in thought.

“Well, I understand why the clan thinks your a spy, but the patrol doesn't. We all saw the look on your ShadowClan clanmates faces. They wanted to kill you,” Eaglefeather meowed. His description brought back scary memories. That was today. And you lived through it. You can do it again. Frostshine told herself.

Frostshine nodded, when she noticed Eaglefeather was just staring at her. “You'll see at the gathering. Midnight will be there, I'm sure of it.”

Despite her words, Frostshine knew there was a small chance that Midnight would not be at the gathering. She might be too cowardly and hide her face! Frostshine thought with disgust.

Today has been such a long an eventful day. Perhaps even an adventure. I wish Appleleaf were here to share it. With that thought, Frostshine managed to fall asleep.

Chapter 9
“Hey, wake up! You haven't had anything to eat!” A odd voice disturbed her sleep. Frostshine opened one eye, past events flooding her head.

“Oh, uh, your right,” Frostshine mewed. She had just woken up and already she had things to do. The cat was a WindClan she-cat. Her pelt was splotches of ginger, white and grey.

“I'm Runningstorm, here to look after you,” She replied, pawing a rabbit to Frostshine. More like to guard me!

Frostshine nodded, eyeing the rabbit. Runningstorm giggled and took her paw off the rabbit, just as Frostshine took a huge mouthful. The salty juiciness running into her mouth. It was so much better the scenting so much warrior blood that you tasted it.

“This is so good. Who caught it?” Frostshine meowed after taking a few more mouthfuls. Runningstorm looked around before replying, “It was Eaglefeather, but I think he went on another patrol.” “Another patrol? Two patrols in a row?” Frostshine meowed in disbelief. Did WindClan not have enough warriors to just go on one patrol a day? Runningstorm tried to fake a smile and meowed more quietly, “Well, Eaglefeather has always wanted to be deputy. Ever since his brother, Breezefire, became deputy he has been trying extra hard.”

Forstshine frowned, thinking about what Runningstorm had said. “I never thought Breezefire had a brother.” Was all Frostshine could reply.

“Do you believe me?” Frostshine asked the same question to Runningstorm, after a few moments of silence.

“Well, I really don't know. Eaglefeather is trying to convince me, but it's so hard to tell truth from a lie,” Runningstorm trailed off, looking down. Runningstorm was so out of place among her clan. She wasn't quiet! Also, for some reason Runningstorm seemed so familiar, even though the two she-cats had never spoken together before. She's just like Appleleaf! How could that be, though? Appleleaf was quiet and soft-spoken while Runningstorm was so open and out-going.

“Do you think Lilystar will find the evidence she needs at the gathering? Will she really drive me out?” Frostshine asked Runnigstorm. She needed to know!

“You'll be okay,” Runningstorm meowed softly, padding out of the den.

Time pasted forever as Frostshine waited for WindClan to return from the gathering. Yellowtail was “Looking after” her, while Runnigstorm was away at the gathering. He was small and didn't say much, like the rest of his clan. His bright yellow tail flicked from side to side, as if it was pacing. Frpstshine felt like pacing too, but knew Yellowtail would see it as a threat, as he saw when Frostshine wanted to take fresh-kill from the fresh-kill pile. He obviously didn't want to have anything to do with Frostshine.

Noise by the camp entrance, made Frostshine prick her ears. Lilystar burst through. Her head held high as she padded to a hill in close to the centre of WindClan camp.

“May all WindClan cats come here for a clan meeting!” Lilystar didn't wait for the cats to gather. Yellowtail let out a small growl and padded over, Frostshine followed right behind. What happened? Lilystar seems in a hurry.

“At the gathering, Owlstar had a rogue taking his place. She openly accused ThunderClan of stealing prey and obducting their warrior, Frostshine. I didn't say anything about her, as it would provoke ShadowClan to attack us. She seemed content on causing distrust among the clans, trying to show that ThunderClan was weak. ThunderClan is suffering from greencough, but it is not the warrior code to attack a weakened clan especially for no reason.” Lilystar started, her eyes full of meaning, her pelt bright from the moonlight. The clan listened quietly, their eyes wide. So Lilystar must have enough prof! Frostshine hoped, waiting for Lilystar to continue.

“I have decided that it would be honourable for us to help ShadowClan,” Lilystar's meow rang through the moonlit camp. “Frostshine tell us all you know of Midnight,” Lilystar added, looking down on Frostshine, who was surprised.

“Well, she will stop at nothing to take over the clans. That's why she is such a threat.” ==Chapter 10== “So, if we attack from this side, we will have a better ambush?” Breezefire asked, drawing a line in the sand. Frostshine tilted her head to one side, examining the drawing for a moment.

“Probably. If Midnight has set up guards, then it doesn't matter where we attack from. Hopefully, the clan is busy getting ready to attack ThunderClan,” Frostshine explained, cautiously. If she went back to ShadowClan, she didn't want to give away too much about their territory. The cats nodded slowly, their eyes still on the sand drawing.

All the of WindClan's senior warriors, deputy and leader were discussing how they would help. It was quickly decided, an ambush would be best, so they could drive off Midnight. Also, Lilystar had said it was best the sooner the attacked. Frostshine wasn't sure if it was best because Midnight wouldn't be around to cause any trouble, or Frostshine wouldn't have to stay in WindClan.

“Then we will attack there. Our patrols have said there has barely been any sign of activity on our side of ShadowClan border,” Breezefire decided. Lilystar nodded, approvingly. Hopefully it will be a quick and persist battle. I don't want to battle my clanmates... except for Darkfern. He needs his ears torn to shreds.

“Still, I think we should take the long way. We only get one chance and Midnight probably knows I'm staying here. We need to make it our best shot,” Forstshine blurted out right in front of Lilystar. Lilystar narrowed her eyes but nodded.

“Frostshine could be right,” Lilystar murmured to Breezefire. Frostshine couldn't help but glance around. What did the rest of WindClan think of this?

Yellowtail was in the back of the senior warriors, his eyes narrowed to slits, his tail still flicking around. Two senior warriors, Swiftwind and Haythorn were watching her closely. When Frostshine met their gaze, they quickly looked away. Eaglefeather gave her a small nod. Frostshine was surprised to get another small nod from Eaglefeather's friend, Weaselfur. Eaglefeather must have convinced Weaselfur.

“We will attack tonight, then,” Lilystar announcement broke through Frostshine's thoughts.

“I'll leave it to Breezefire to choose the battle patrols,” Lilystar added quickly, flicking her tail. Breezefire dipped his black head and watched Lilystar pad to her den to rest.

“Frostshine will lead the first patrol, which will consist of Eaglefeather, Yellowtail and Runningstorm. You have met them before, so you shouldn't have to get to know them.” Except I have not gotten to know Yellowtail! Oh well.

“I will lead the second which will consist of, Haythorn, Lilystar, Swiftwind, Jaggedlight and Clovertail. Frostshine's patrol will lead, we will follow right behind. When we get to the camp, we will split up and attack from two angles. Is this clear?” Breezefire continued, his head high with authority. The senior warriors nodded, there eyes hiding their emotions, while the younger warriors' eyes were filled with them. Some had ambitions in their eyes, others were full of fear or courage.

“Does your whole territory look like this?” Yellowtail asked, wincing as his paws slipped in mud.

“No!” Frostshine hissed, quietly. “Be quiet would you?” She added. Yellowtail gave Frostshine a glare, which was shot back by Eagelfeather.

“She's leading the patrol,” Frostshine heard Eaglefeather tell Yellowtail as she turned around and pushed through a thorny bush. Will Yellowtail ever shut up? He was so quiet when he was guarding me! Yellowtail had been chatting the whole trip. Frostshine thought he would shut his mouth when they crossed the border, but he kept on chattering like a blackbird.

Suddenly, she heard a voice just up ahead, too far to make out who it was and what they were saying. Frostshine flicked her tail to signal them she had heard something. Immediately, the warriors crouched, though Yellowtail made a disgusted face as his belly fur met watery mud.

After a while, Frostshine was almost sure that whoever it was had went away and began trekking towards ShadowClan camp. Before the were finished crossing the muddy marsh, Frostshine heard a voice. She tried to warn the WindClan cats, but it was too late. A ShadowCLan cat jumped onto Frostshine's back.

“Traitor!”

Chapter 11
“Poppytail, please let me go. I'm coming to help ShadowClan!” Frostshine pleaded, instantly recognizing the ShadowClan medicine cat's voice.

“By attacking it?” Poppytail snarled, though Frostshine could tell, that Poppytail wasn't on Midnight's side. Frostshine felt Poppytail's claws losen and the weight vanish off of her back.

“We want to drive out Midnight.” Frostshine told Poppytail who still had her eyes narrowed even though she had let go of Frostshine's grey pelt. The other WindClan cats nodded, while Yellowtail stepped forward his head held high.

“And I don't suppose you asked her about ShadowClan. Is there anything we should know about?” Yellowtail's meow had a slight anger, directed at Frostshine. Frostshine felt her shoulders bristle with embarrassment.

“Well, with Darkfern's help, Midnight has managed to convince most of the clan that her intentions are to make ShadowClan top clan. There a few, like me, who fake cheer Midnight on. The rest, that weren't that good at acting, are dead,” Poppytail meowed, quietly, her eyes hard and serious.

“I might be able to help you. I could announce to the clan that you are coming to help. That could be your signal to attack the camp,” Poppytail mumbled, frowning at the ground. Frostshine put her tail tip on Poppytail's shoulder. Poppytail was about the same age as Frostshine and didn't deserve to have her life cut short.

“Don't risk your life. Do what you can,” Frostshine murmured, then turned back to the patrol. Who was watching Frostshine and Poppytail silently.

“Let's hurry before the other patrol beats us to camp.”

It didn't take long for Frostshine's battle patrol to reach camp where Breezefire's patrol was waiting. “Poppytail will tell the clan that I'm coming to help, so we don't have to fight cats that don't want to fight for Midnight. That's our signal,” Frostshine told Breezefire quickly as she heard the cats settle down to hear what Poppytail had to say.

“You come in from those rocks over there. We will burst right through the entrance,” Breezefire instructed, after taking note of what Frostshine had said. Already, the WindClan warriors were waiting for her a the rocks. Frostshine crouched right beside a big boulder and watched Poppytail speak.

“Is Midnight the black cat with blue eyes?” Yellowtail asked. Frostshine remembered he hadn't seen her at the gathering because he didn't go. Frostshine nodded.

“We're going to win. After you can go back to your clan. It's going to be all okay.” he meowed suddenly. It surprised Frostshine that Yellowtail was trying to spark hope within Frostshine. I'm not a kit! I don't need to be reassured! Frostshine forced herself to give Yellowtail a thankful smile before hearing Midnight's ice-cold voice.

“Frostshine? So you are a traitor as well?” At that instant, Darkfern leaped at Poppytail and Frostshine leaped from the boulders, landing right ontop of Fernwater.

Yowls split through the night sky, blood drenched the ground. ShadowClan camp was a battle field.

“You don't have to fight!” Frostshine screamed to Fernwater as Fernwater fought back. “This is for Lizardfang!” Cloudtail yowled, ignoring Frostshine's words, clawing Frostshine's muzzle. Runningstorm was suddenly by her side, forcing Fernwater back.

“Go find your clanmates that will help us. I got her,” Runningstorm told Frostshine. Frostshine gave Runningstorm a look of gratitude, though Runningstorm had looked back at Fernwater, and dashed off to find Poppytail.

A lithe body suddenly crushed Frostshine in mid-run. Quickpaw? “I got her!” It was Quickpaw's voice. Frostshine managed to turn her head to see who he had called to. To her dismay, Darkfern stalked over, his amber eyes gleaming with satisfaction.

“Why, why do you do this? You must know Midnight will take over the clans?” Frostshine asked, hoping she could waver Darkfern's loyalty.

“We will rule the clans. She promises that I will be deputy,” Darkfern hissed in Frostshine's ear, his claws piercing her fur.

“You know I'm not a murder!” Frostshine spat at Darkfern. Darkfern smiled. Evilly.

“It's just an excuse, Frostshine. Midnight has told me so many things about where she has come from. She was Oakstripe's mate, did you know?” Darkfern meowed, his voice cold, as well as his eyes. Frostshine thrashed in Darkfern's grip.

“Not this time. You're not escaping Midnight's claws, this time,” Darkfern snarled. Frostshine looked around. Was Midnight coming to send her to StarClan? She couldn't die now. Not when ShadowClan was so close to being free!

Out of the corner of her eye, Frostshine watched as Runningstorm race up to Darkfern and bat him off of Frostshine.

“Thanks, again,” Frostshine breathed and darted away. Frostshine glanced at Darkfern squirming under Runningstorm's claws. Frostshine went back to make sure Runningstorm had him under control. “I'm so sorry, Frostshine!” Runningstorm's shocked voice met Frostshine. Darkfern was lying in a pool of blood, his eyes still full of fury. Darkfern is dieing, Frostshine noticed, suddenly.

“Y-you have defeated me Frostshine. B-But you have not defeated my spirit. I-I will die fighting for Midnight,” Darkfern's mew was rasping. Darkfern suddenly jerked up so he could whisper in Frostshine's ear.

“Midnight has said that the great murderer still lives. She is out there, Frostshine. Wolfheart is alive and well!” His voice faded off at the end of the sentence, his paws trembling, his eyes staring blankly ahead.

“What did he say?” Runningstorm asked.

“He will always fight for Midnight.” Frostshine said, not wanting to give away what Darkfern had told her, weather it was true or not.

She knew what she needed to do, now. She needed to make Owlstar see that Midnight was not what she seems!

“I need to get to Owlstar,” Frostshine meowed over the yowling cats to Yellowtail and Eaglefeather. “I need him to see the truth,” Frostshine added, when Yellowtail gave her a questioning look. Both WindClan toms nodded and followed Frostshine as Frostshine weaved in and out and around battling cats. The stench of Owlstar's untidy den masked Frostshine's nose.

“Owlstar! You must see! Midnight is fight her own clanmates!” Frostshine meowed to Owlstar, who had his eyes open, staring blankly ahead.

“Who are you?” Owlstar's bleak voice made Frostshine pelt shiver and her eyes widen.

“You don't know who I am?”

Chapter 12
“Are you of ShadowClan? You smell funny,” Owlstar mumbled, blinking at Frostshine, his eyes darting around Frostshine's body. Has Owlstar forgotten me?

Eaglefeather gave Frostshine a tap on the shoulder. “We need to get out of here, Darkfern's going to trap us in here.” Frostshine nodded and turned to Owlstar. “You need to come out here and see what is happening,” Frostshine told Owlstar urgently, tugging on his tail. Owlstar let out a grunt and followed Frostshine out.

Midnight was fight Poppytail at just the right time. “See?” Frostshine meowed pointing to Midnight. “She's fight her own clanmate!”

“Well, Poppytail must be a traitor. My clan was crawling with traitors. Midnight helped me see that. When I die, I'm happy the clan will be in her paws,” Owlstar meowed, speaking his heart. What has happened to you?! Midnight has poisoned her mind for too long.

“Midnight!” Owlstar's eyes brighted. Frostshine turned her head, her pelt prickling with fear. There standing right next to Owlstar, was Midnight.

“Ah, I see you have come back!” Midnight snarled her eyes sharp, her voice as evil as ever.

“Leave ShadowClan!” Frostshine hissed to Midnight as Midnight's followers either switched sides, or fled camp.

“You can't tell me anything. It's the leader's decision,” Midnight snarled at Frostshine, unsheathing her claws. Owlstar widened his eyes. Eaglefeather, Yellowtail, Breezefire and all her ShadowClan clanmates snarled and growled at Midnight.

“Sometimes, you don't have a choice. I don't think ShadowClan cares what the leader's decision is!” Frostshine meowed and couldn't help but smiling. Midnight's expression turned into satisfying fear.

“I will come back!” She meowed, her voice still sounding strong and a little evil, but her face gave away how she felt.

“I will set things right between us, Frostshine,” Even though Frostshine knew she was scared, her words stabbed into Frostshine like claws. Each word hurt more and more.

Suddenly, lightning cracked overhead, hitting a tree. The tree began to wobble and fall. Midnight screeched and dashed away, only to run right under the tree. Owlstar let out a warining yowl and leaped to Midnight, but got there too late. The burning tree smashed down right on Midnight, crushing her body. Owlstar tried to stop, but catapulted right into the tree to try to save the only one he trusted.

“Or not,” Frostshine couldn't help but meowing. Poppytail padded up to Frostshine. “Now who will be leader?” She asked the clan.

“Frostshine!” Frostshine was surprised to hear her name, let alone from Fernwater's mouth.

“Frostshine!” Cloudtail repeated. Soon the whole clan was cheering her name.

So I am to be leader of ShadowClan. It will be the time for ShadowClan to rebuild and shake off past enemies. Frostshine thought. What about Wolfheart? She felt herself ask. If Darkfern had told the truth, then Frostshine had to do something about it. She will be hunted down and killed.

Frostshine waved her tail to Eagledfeather and Runningstorm as the WindClan cats left. The damage Midnight had doen to the clan could not be easily repaired, let alone forgotten.

Midnight will never be forgotten by me. That's for sure.