New Beginnings: Life In the Forest

Allegences
ForestClan

Leader: Dawnstar- tortoiseshell shecat w/ green eyes.

Deputy: Rockfire- dark gray tom w/ ginger patches and brown eyes.

Medicine Cat: Mossshadow- pale gray (w/ darker specks) shecat w/ green eyes.Apprentice-Lightpaw.

Warriors: 

Loudstep- thickset brown tabby tom w/ white paws and amber eyes.

Hawktalon- gold tabby shecat w/one orange paw and green eyes.Apprentice-Flowerpaw.

Swifttalon- small white tabby shecat w/ bright green eyes. Apprentice-Brackenpaw.

Runningstorm- dark gray tom w/ blue eyes.

Patchbelly- black tom w/ a white patched underbelly and blue eyes.

Skystep- long limbed white tom w/ blue eyes.

Rainpelt- light gray tom w/ blue eyes.

Sorrelfur- light ginger and tortoiseshell shecat w/ golden-amber eyes.Apprentice-Sootpaw

Sharpfoot- dark brown tabby tom w/ long claws and amber eyes.

Crowfur- dark smokey gray tom w/ blue eyes.

Mossfire- mottled brown and ginger tom w/ amber eyes.

Wildpath- dark ginger shecat w/ green eyes.

Iceclaw- light brown tom w/ white paws and green eyes.Apprentice-Bramblepaw.

Mousepelt- small dusky brown shecat w/amber eyes.Apprentice-Honeypaw.

Apprentices: 

Brackenpaw- golden brown tabby tom w/ green eyes.

Bramblepaw- dark brown tabby tom w/ amber eyes.

Flowerpaw- ginger tabby shecat w/ amber eyes.

Honeypaw- light brown shecat w/ green eyes.

Sootpaw- light gray tom w/ blue eyes.

Lightpaw- tortoiseshell shecat w/ blue eyes,medicine cat apprentice.

Queens:

Dappleheart- light brown dappled shecat w/ amber eyes, mother of Crowfur's kit's-Spottedkit(white shecat w/ brown spots),Cinderkit(gray shecat),and Yellowkit(ginger shecat).

Tawnycloud- tortoiseshell shecat w/ green eyes,mother of Runningstorm's kit's-Mudkit(brown tom) and Fernkit(gray tabby shecat).

Willowheart- small brown shecat w/ blue eyes,expecting Loudstep's kit's.

Windbreath- pale gray shecat w/ green eyes,expexting Rockfire's kit's.

Elders: 

Scarpath- very old brown tom w/ a battle scarred pelt and amber eyes.

Boldheart- old, frail gray shecat w/ blue eyes.

Darkshadow- black tom w/ green eyes.

Fluffypelt- light gray shecat w/ fur sticking out all over and blue eyes.

Tigerlegs- brown tabby tom w/ brown eyes, formerly deputy.

WaterClan

Leader: Silverstar- silverish-gray tabby tom w/ green eyes.

Deputy: Splashpelt-white shecat w/ blueish-gray spots and dark green eyes.

Medicine Cat: Dewpool- mottled blue and gray shecat w/ grassy-green eyes.Apprentice-Rainsong.

Warriors:

Rushpelt- swift gray-blue tom w/ blue eyes.

Nightmist- gray tabby shecat w/ amber eyes.Apprentice-Coldpaw.

Rippleclaw- pale gray tabby tom w/ amber eyes.

Grayfur- gray tom w/ a white chest and neon blue eyes.

Stormheart- light gray tom w/ icy blue eyes.

Pikefur- silver tabby tom w/ sky blue eyes. Apprentice-Shimmerpaw.

Troutpelt- light gray tom(w/ darker flecks) w/ blue eyes.

Darkclaw- pure black tom w/ green eyes.

Bluestorm- blueish-gray shecat w/ green eyes.

Lilysplash- white shecat w/ green splashes and light blue eyes.Apprentice-Minnowpaw.

Mossypelt- white shecat w/ green/brown stripes and blue eyes. Apprentice-Shinepaw.

Otterstep- white shecat w/ brown feet and blue eyes.

Mudstorm- brown tabby tom w/ dark brown eyes.

Reedpelt- brown tom w/ light brown eyes.

Toadpatch- black,white,and brown tom w/ blue eyes.

Marshfur- brown tom w/ dark blue eyes.

Apprentices:

Shinepaw- silver and white tabby shecat w/ blue eyes.

Minnowpaw- dark gray tabby tom w/ white specks and blue eyes.

Shimmerpaw-silver tabby shecat w/blue eyes.

Coldpaw- white tabby tom w/ green eyes.

Rainsong- light gray tabby shecat w/ bright blue eyes,medicine cat apprentice.

Queens:

Brightstream- tortoishell shecat w/ dark blue eyes,mother of Grayheart's kit's- Streamkit(tortoiseshell shecat) and Creekkit(gray-blue tom w/ white paws).

Smallsplash- small blue-gray shecat w/ blue eyes,mother of Darkstorm's kit's-Wetkit(small blue-gray tom),Mistkit( light gray shecat),and Shadekit(gray/silver shecat).

Elders:

Crookedtail- very old gray tom w/ a permenently broken tail and blind blue eyes, oldest cat in WaterClan.

Snowpelt- old whiteish-blue-gray shecat w/ a slashed ear and amber eyes.

Icestorm- gray and white tabby tom w/ a battle scarred pelt and pale green eyes.

Stonebreeze- gray tabby shecat w/ blue eyes.

Lakeheart- blue-gray tabby tom w/ green eyes.

MeadowClan

Leader: Gorsestar- white shecat w/ gray spots and green eyes.

Deputy: Wolftooth- gray-brown tabby tom w/ lighter brown legs, very sharp teeth,and green eyes.Apprentice-Pricklepaw.

Medicine cat: Echomist- light gray shecat w/ light blueish/gray spots and dark blue eyes. Apprentice-Seedpaw.

Warriors:

Windstorm- white tabby shecat w/ bright green eyes.

Bettlefur- black tom w/ dark green eyes.

Squirrelleap- golden brown tom w/ long legs and brown eyes. Apprentice-Foxpaw.

Grassfoot- white tom w/ light brown paws and bright green eyes.

Bumbleflight- ginger tabby tom w/ green eyes.

Duskcloud- creamy brown shecat w/ light hazel eyes.

Moleheart- small black tom w/ short whiskers and blue eyes.

Colverfrost- light brown,almost green,shecat w/ a white underbelly and sky blue eyes.

Birchtail-white tom w/ a brown tail and blue eyes.

Ferretpelt- golden-brown tom w/ darker brown spots and blue eyes.

Pinewhisker- reddish-brown tom w/ long whiskers and amber eyes.Apprentice-Volepaw.

Sunclaw- golden tom w/ darker flecks and amber eyes.

Leafpatch- patchy brown,white,and black tom w/ one white foot and amber eyes.Apprentice-Rabbitpaw.

Fallowbreeze- lithe brown shecat w/ long legs and green eyes.

Ivypatch- tortoiseshell tabby shecat w/ light hazel eyes.Apprentice-Weaselpaw.

Apprentices:

Rabbitpaw- brown and white shecat w/ white feet and brown eyes.

Pricklepaw- white tabby shecat w/ pale green eyes.

Foxpaw- reddish tabby tom w/ green eyes.

Weaselpaw- white tom w/ ginger patches and brown eyes.

Volepaw- light gray tabby tom w/ blue eyes.

Seedpaw- white tom w/ brown specks,short whiskers and blue eyes,medicine cat apprentice.

Queens:

Poppypelt- pure black she-cat with brown eyes (mother of Sunclaws kits:Cinderkit, Pantherkit, Crowkit, and Firekit)

Sweetberry- cream shecat w/ blue eyes, mother of Birchtail's kit's- Featherkit(brown tom) and Rosekit(cream and brown shecat).

Petalmist- light gray shecat w/ dark blue eyes,mother of Moleheart's kit's- Mintkit(tiny,gray tabby shecat), Hollykit(pure black shecat),and Ravenkit(black tom).

Tinypatch- small tortoiseshell shecat w/ hazel eyes,expecting Squirrelleap's kit's.

Elders:

Stickwhisker- brown tom w/ very long whiskers and amber eyes.

Shrewclaw- old gray-black tom w/ pale blue eyes.

Scarpelt- old gray shecat w/ many scars and pale blue eyes,oldest shecat in MeadowClan.

Bravepath- very old gray tom w/ several scars everywhere and one,blind,blue eye,oldest cat in MeadowClan.

MountainClan

Leader: Graystar- light gray tom w/ blue eyes.

Deputy: Shadowpelt- black tom w/ green eyes.

Medicine Cat: Speckelshade- light gray shecat w/ dark gray spots and blue eyes.Apprentice-Copperpaw.

Warriors: 

Jaggedclaw- long haired black tom w/ long,jagged claws and amber eyes.

Darkstrike- dark gray tabby tom w/ amber eyes.

Stealthfoot- light gray shecat with lighter paws and green eyes.

Eaglefoot- white tom w/ one orange paw and green eyes.Apprentice-Tanglepaw.

Sharpstone- gray tabby tom w/ blue eyes.

Rockfall- dark gray tom w/blue eyes.

Pebbletail- white shecat w/ a short tail and blue eyes.

Dustfur- dark brown tom w/ amber eyes.

Sparrowwing- long haired brown tom w/ amber eyes.

Spidertail- white tom w/ a black tipped tail and amber eyes.Apprentice-Birdpaw.

Swiftstone- long limbed gray and white tom w/ amber eyes.

Thornpelt- brown tabby tom w/ brown eyes. Apprentice-Cloudpaw.

Raggedleap- long haired gray tom w/ long legs and amber eyes.Apprentice-Sunpaw.

Apprentices:

Tanglepaw- light brown tabby tom w/ a twisted paw and brown eyes.

Cloudpaw- small white shecat w/ amber eyes.

Birdpaw- golden-brown tabby shecat w/dark green eyes.

Sunpaw- golden tom w/green eyes.

Copperpaw- light brown shecat w/ blue eyes,medicine cat apprentice.

Queens:

Cindercloud- light gray shecat w/ green eyes, mother of Thornpelt's kits: Leafkit(brown and white tabby she-kit)and Wildkit(black and brown tom)

Breezeflower- small white tabby shecat w/ green eyes, mother of

Dustfur's kit's-Snowkit(white shecat),Stonekit(gray tabby tom) and Lizardkit(brown tabby tom).

Elders:

Halfface- very old,gray shecat w/ half her face ripped off from falling rocks and brown eyes,oldest cat in MountainClan.

Sidestone- brown tom w/ a crooked gray muzzle and green eyes.

Deadeyes- gray shecat w/ blind blue eyes.

Sharptalon- white tom w/ one orange foot and blue eyes.

Prolouge
The morning chill against her back woke Dawnstar. Right about now Rockfire,her deputy,would be organizing patrols. She would be helping him,but she was still weak from the battle that had happened only one sunrise ago. She had lost a life then,only seven remained. She felt a pang of sadness when she remembered when she had been made leader. She still missed the previous leader, Owlstar, he had been her mentor and closest friend. He had died of greencough last leafbare, the sickness took everyone by surprise, even their medicine cat, Mossshadow. But Dawnstar had moved on. She heard a noise outside her den and her mate,Skystep,came in carrying a mouse. "I thought you would be hungry" he said as he put the mouse down at her paws." Yes,thank you, i'm starving" Dawnstar answered in reply. Just then they heard alot of comotion outside and came out just in time to see Honeypaw run into the camp."Hurry, come help me, Flowerpaw has fallen into the river!!" Honeypaw shouted,fear in her eyes.Honeypaw and Flowerpaw were best friends so Dawnstar could understand why she was so upset. Rockfire quickly called to Runningstorm, Sorrelfur,Mossfire,Sharpfoot,and Flowerpaw's mentor, Hawktalon, to go with Honeypaw. "I hope Flowerpaw is ok," Dawnstar stressfully mewed to Skystep. If Flowerpaw didn't survive this would be the second apprentice they had lost this moon. A few nights before the battle Eaglepaw,one of the youngest apprentices, had been bitten by an adder. Mossshadow had tried everything she could to save him but the poison spread to fast.Skystep spoke as if he was reading her thoughts,"She'll be fine. I know your worried about losing another apprentice after we lost Eaglepaw.You should go for a walk, take you mind off things. It will make you feel better. Rockfire can keep an eye on things." "Ok,” was all she said before she padded away from her mate,out the camp entrance,and into the forest.

Chapter 1
Rockfire was releived when Flowerpaw's rescue patrol returned safely with Flowerpaw. She was a little shaken, but Mossshadow gave her some poppy seed and sent her to bed in the apprentice's den. Rockfire was on his way to check on Flowerpaw right now. He went into the apprentices den to find Flowerpaw curled up next to Bramblepaw, her brother. Bramblepaw was supposed to be on a patrol with Iceclaw, his mentor. "Bramblepaw, wake up," Rockfire gently meowed so he wouldn't wake up Flowerpaw. "Wuhh,what's going on.Oh it's just you Rockfire." Bramblepaw sleepily meowed. "Yes it's just me.Who did you think it was. Anyways ,shouldn't you be on patrol with Iceclaw?" "Yes,"Bramblepaw replied."So why aren't you," asked Rockfire. "Oh,cause I went on a hunting patrol earlier so Iceclaw told me I could rest," Bramblepaw told him. "Whatever," was all Rockfire said  before he left the den."Apprentices," Rockfire mumbled to him self as he went to go and see how Dawnstar was doing.He padded across the clearing strait to Dawnstar's den. As he entered ,he called "Dawnstar, Are you awake?” "I am now," came a reply from the other side of the den. He had forgotten she had just got back from a walk and was probably exausted. " Sorry ,I didn't mean to wake you," Rockfire apologized."Oh, it's ok i've been asleep for along time, well since this morning,I needed to wake up,"Dawntstar answered back."I just came to check and see how your wounds are doing,"he told her."Well considering that i'm not spilling out blood out of my side anymore, i'm doing pretty well," she answered him back."Well, that's an improvement from earlier,"Rockfire spoke."Yes,I guess it is,"Dawnstar replied."I know you didn't come here to gossip so what do you want,"Dawnstar asked Rockfire questioningly. "Well i've been watching the older apprentices, Honeypaw and Sootpaw,these past few days and I think it's time they were made warriors,"Rockfire answered. Dawnstar's eyes started to shine before she spoke,"Sounds good to me.We really need more warriors." "Ok, i'll go speak to their mentors right now and arrange for them to go on a patrol with their mentors in the morning,the dawn patrol if you want and i'll go to if that's ok,"Rockfire meowed happily."Ok that would be great and then we'll hold their ceromony when you get back,"Dawnstar meowed back.

***

The cool morning breeze woke Rockfire up.He got up and padded out of the warrior's den. It was still early so only a few of the Clan were up. Rockfire spotted the dawn patrol, Runnignstorm, Wildpath, Iceclaw,and Bramblepaw, coming in through the Camp entrance.He greeted them as they approched him. "How did it go?"Rockfire asked Runningstorm,the patrol leader."It was all quiet.Well that is until we got to the MountainClan border.They have been tresspassing again."Rockfire growled in anger and spoke,"Those pieces of mouse dung!That's the fourth time this moon.Wait until I tell Dawnstar,she'll be furious!"Runningstorm nodded in agreement."You guys should go and rest now,"Rockfire told him.The patrol padded away toward their dens to sleep. By now the Clan had stated to wake with Honeypaw and Sootpaw one of the first,excited to go on patrol today. The two apprentices ran to up Rockfire excitedly. "When are we going?"asked Honeypaw."As soon as your mentors are ready,"Rockfire replied.'Lets go get them Honeypaw,"said Sootpaw and ran to the warriors den with Honeypaw in pursuit."Apprentices,"Rockfire muttered."You weren't any different im sure,"said Windbreath from behind."True,I always dreamed of becoming deputy like my father from the day I became an apprentice,"Rockfire said remembering his apprentice days."Not leader?"Windbreath asked."Well not really,my father was deputy so I dreamed of being just like him,"Rockfire said in reply.Windbreath smiled and spoke"Well,I have to admit Tigerlegs was a good deputy." "Yes he was,a very good deputy,"Rockfire spoke remembering when he was just an apprentice and his father was still deputy."Well,I should probably go and make sure Sootpaw and Honeypaw are ready for their assesment today,"Rockfire told Windbreath and padded away. As he appropoched the warrior's den Sootpaw,Honeypaw,Mousepelt,and Sorrelfur all came out.Rockfire padded up to the two warriors and meowed "Are you guys ready,if we wait any longer the apprentice's heads will fall off.You guys should go get something to eat and then we'll go." The two mentors padded off toward the fresh kill pile and each chose a squirrel. They both chose  to eat by the Oak Stump,an old tree stump where warriors eats their meals.Sorrelfur and Rainpelt were also there and the four cats ate their meal together.After they had finished Rockfire went and told Dawnstar that they were going and then Rockfire, Sootpaw,Honeypaw,and their mentors went out to the forest for Sootpaw's and Honeypaw's final assesment.

***

They had come back and let the two apprentices rest and Dawnstar was about to give Honeypaw and Sootpaw their warrior names. As Rockfire padded away from where he had been eating, Dawnstar padded up from her den to Tallrock,the place where the Clan leader addressed the Clan, and called out,"Let all cats old enough to climb trees join here beneath Tallrock for a Clan meeting."Rockfire spotted Sorrelfur and Mousepelt,the two apprentice's mentors pad up behind Dawnstar and go and fetch their apprentices.Dawnstar signaled with her tail for Honeypaw and Sootpaw to join her.As everyone began to come and sit down,Rockfire sitting by Sorrelfur and Mousepelt,Dawnstar began,"Honeypaw,Sootpaw you have both done well and earned your warrior names.Do you both promise to up hold the warrior code and to protect and defend this Clan even at the cost of your life." "I do," Honeypaw eagerly meowed. "I do," Sootpaw more quietly meowed. Even though Sootpaw was quiet,Rockfire could see the excitment gleaming in his eyes. "Then by the powers of StarClan,I give you your warrior names,"Dawnstar meowed loudly. "Honeypaw,from this moment on you shall be known as Honeyshine,StarClan honors your faith and determination and we welcome you as a full warrior of ForestClan. And Sootpaw,from this moment on you shall be know as Sootclaw,StarClan honors your skill and hardwork and we welcome you as a full warrior of ForestClan,"Dawnstar finished. The Clan cheered loudly "Honeyshine,Sootclaw,"the other apprentices cheering the loudest,but their sister Lightpaw,Mossshadow's apprentice,cheering the loudest of all. As the cheering came to an end Dawnstar told the new warriors,"In tradition,you must sit vigil and gaurd the camp tonight until dawn,but you must not speak at all." As Honeyshine and Sootclaw took their positions the Clan went back to their duties and dens.Rockfire decided that everyone was busy enough that he could take a short nap in the warrior's den.As he settled down,he slowly drifted into sleep.

Chapter 2
The bright morning sun shining through her den woke Mossshadow up. As she got up and padded over to the fresh kill pile Mossshadow heard Rockfire assigning patrols and Dappleheart's and Tawnycloud's kits playing by the nursery. As Mossshadow reached the pile she chose a squirrel from it and padded up into Dawnstar's den. But as she entered,Mossshadow couldn't see Dawnstar. Running quickly out of the den and to Rockfire,Mossshadow asked him,"Do you know where Dawnstar is,she's not in her den." "It's ok Mossshadow,she took Hawktalon and Mossfire on a hunting patrol,"Rockfire reasuringly replied back. "Oh, ok I was just worried, but I guess she'll be fine,"Mossshadow told Rockfire."Of course she'll be fine, it's Dawnstar we're talking about here,"Rockfire replied back. Just then Windbreath padded up and gently asked Mossshadow,"May I speak to Rockfire real quick." "Is it about the kits?"Mossshadow whisped back."How did....Have you told him,"Windbreath asked back."No, I knew you needed to,"Mosshadow told her and left her with Rockfire. As Mossshadow walked away,Lightpaw,her apprentice,padded up to her with her jaws full of borage and set the herb down in front of her."I thought we would need some more considering Willowheart could have her kits any day now and Windbreath is expecting,"Lightpaw explained to Mossshadow. "How did you know Windbreath was expecting," Mossshadow asked her in return. "I just knew,"Lightpaw answered. "Did StarClan tell you?" Mossshadow asked  questioningly. "No I just guessed and then she started being more careful so then I knew,"Lightpaw told her metor."Well,ok now you need to go and put that borage away,"Mossshadow told Lightpaw. Lightpaw nodded in reply and padded to the medicine den to put the borage away.As she started to get up,Fluffypelt,one of the elders,came up to her and quickly spoke,"Come quick,something's wrong with Willowheart,I think the kits are coming." "Ok i'll come right away," Mossshadow replied and quickly ran for the nursery with Lightpaw running from the medicine cat den right behind her.As the two shecats entered Mossshadow saw Willowheart shaking and the she yowled" Hurry,help me something's not right,I just know it,"and then Willowheart shook and Mossshadow knew then something for sure was bad.Windbreath started to shake and then she convulsed and a tiny little bundle slid out onto her nest.Mossshadow quickly reached for the kit and started to lick. But as she licked she couldn't feel a heartbeat and knew the kit was dead.She looked at Willowheart and said "The kit died before it came out.There's nothing I could do,i'm sorry." Willowheart strted to moan and then she was cut off by another spasm."Lightpaw,go get some of that borage you collected for Willowheart,"Mossshadow quickly asked the apprentice.Willowheart started to moan in grief but was cut off once again by another spasm."Mossshadow began to lick the second kit as soon as she nipped it's sack and it came out.Mossshadow lifted her head and told Willowheart," She should be fine,she's in good shape and she looks just like you Willowheart." As Willowheart started to smile,another shake took her over and the last and smallest bundle slid out onto the nest.Mossshadow nipped the sack open and began to  lick this one and told Willowheart,"This one should be fine.He's a tom,white with brown patches, and breathing fine."Mossshadow recognized Loudstep's voice at the entrance,"May I come in." Loudstep was Willowheart's mate and the father of the kits. "Yes come on in and see your new kits," Mossshadow meowed back. Loudstep entered the room and went to lay down by his mate and kits. As Loudstep saw the limp body of the dead kit he asked,sadness in his eyes," What happened to that one." "It died before it was even born,"Mossshadow meowed sadly in reply. Before anyone else could say anything Lightpaw padded into the room and set some borage right in front of Willowheart and quietly told her what to do and then left the nursery again. "Have you picked names for the kits yet?" Mossshadow asked Willowheart. "The smallest one that looks like me is Briarkit and I haven't thought of a name for the other one," the queen meowed in reply. Loudstep lifted his gaze from the kits and spoke, "How about Harekit." "I like that,"Willowheart meowed. Before anyone else could say anything Mossshadow ordered, "Alright,everybody out and let Willowheart and her kits rest." As Loudstep left Willowheart curled up and closed her eyes. Mossshadow made sure Willowheart was fine then left to go and see if Dawnstar had returned. As Mossshadow left the nursery she noticed almost the whole Clan had gathered in front of the nursery and she spoke, "Willowheart is fine and resting.One of the kit's died Willowheart will need some tie to recover but she will be fine. "As Mossshadow stoped speaking she heard shocked mews coming from many cats. "Willowheart will be fine,I promise. So return to your normal duties and let her rest, "Mossshadow finished and headed off for Dawnstar's den. Before Mossshadow was even half way to the leader's den, Dawnstar came straight from the camp entrance to Mossshadow and told Mossshadow, "I'm sorry I left without asking you but I was sure I was fine,and still am,and you were sleeping so I just went." "Well,I'm just glad your ok, we need our leader. Oh and Willowheart has just had her kits,but you might wait to go see her because she is resting right now,and she may be a little depressed.One of the kits died before it was even born," Mossshadow replied. "Well I should go see what Lightpaw is doing," Mossshadow told Dawnstar and padded away towards the medicine den.

Chapter 3
"ForestClan, ATTACK!!," Rockfire heard Dawnstar call the order.The day before,the dawn patrol had caught a MountainClan hunting patrol on ForestClan land again and Dawnstar had declared war. Rockfire jumped away as Spidertail, a MountainClan warrior, lunged at him.Rockfire turned around with claws unshealthed and raked his claws against Spidertail's side.Spidertail yowled in pain and fled into the bushes. Rockfire turned just intime to see Raggedpelt, MountainClan's newest warrior, leap at him. Rockfire quickly rolled out of the way only to land in Thornpelt's claws.Rockfire tried to move away but Thornpelt quickly slashed his claws down Rockfire's flank. Luckily, Skystep had saw and came to help Rockfire. The two ForestClan warriors fought side by side,clawing and slashing at the two other warriors. Skystep lunged at Thornpelt and landed on his back, biting his shoulder causing Thornpelt to run away in pain. Raggedpelt, knowing that he would be beat turned and ran off. "Coward," Rockfire murmered to himself. The deputy got up and charged back into battle, jumping on Eaglefoot, one of MountainClan's most senior warriors. Eaglefoot, ready for the attack dodged out of the way and plowed into Rockfire's side as Rockfire landed. Rockfire leaped out of the way just in time. The ForestClan deputy turned and slashed Eaglefoot's face,making him bleed. Rockfire watched as the MountainClan warrior ran away into the rocky forest to MountainClan territory. Rockfire gazed across the clearing at the battle. As Rockfire looked around he saw Sootclaw fighting a MountainClan tom with excitment and determination to win his first battle as a warrior,his sister, Honeyshine,had stayed at camp. Farther across the clearing he saw Iceclaw and Bramblepaw, mentor and apprentice, fighting along side each other slashing and clawing at three MountainClan warriors. At first he didn't recognize them then he noticed Jaggedclaw,the biggest warrior in MountainClan, Shadowpelt the MountainClan deputy, and a brown tabby apprentice Rockfire didn't recognize. As Rockfire started to run to help them Graystar, the leader of MountainClan, jumped on his back and bit him, taking out fur. Rockfire yowled in pain but quickly twisted out of his hold and turned to face the gray leader. He ran at Graystar and leaped at him with fury.Landing on his back he raked his claws down his back with all force causing the leader to yowl very,very loudly.The leader was now very angry and clawed at Rockfire spitting with fury.Rockfire jumped and landed on the leader's back biting his ear and not letting go.Graystar,clearly in pain,tried to escape Rockfire's hold but couldn't.As Rockfire let go,Graystar called a retreat and ran off with his Clan fowllowing in behind.Rockfire started to pad over to Dawnstar and as he approched her he saw she had seveal wounds,like the rest of her warriors she didn't care because they had won.In excitment she called"Lets return so Mossshadow can tend to our wounds and we can eat.We won the battle!"Rockfire heard the clearing bust into cheers."Well lets go,"Dawnstar called and started towards the camp.While the Clan followed behind, Rockfire padded up and walked next to Sootclaw asking him how his first battle was.

***

One sunrise had passed since the battle with MountainClan.Luckly,there hadn't been any serious wounds and everyone was fine.Right now Rockfire was on a border patrol with Swifttalon and her apprentice Brakenpaw."Ok Brakenpaw what can you smell, "Rockfire heard Swifttalon speak."I can smell the thunderpath and fox,stale though.Probably hasn't came here since about three days ago,"Brackenpaw replied."Good I would of said the same,"Rockfire praised him. Brackenpaw purred at the deputy's praise."Well should we finish the patrol now and go back? "Swifttalon asked Rockfire. "Yes we should go now,"Rockfire answered.As they padded back to camp Rockfire wondered how Windbreath was doing,she was due to have their kits any day now as she had waited a moon to tell him. They padded into the clearing and Rockfire went to go speak with Dawnstar, leaving Swifttalon and Brakenpaw to eat. As Rockfire padded up to Dawnstar's den,he heard Dawnstar call "Who is it.""Rockfire,"he quickly replied.Dawnstar called"Come in,"but Rockfire was already about to sit down next to her."What are you so excited about,"Dawnstar asked him."I'm happy to announce that Brakenpaw, Flowerpaw,and Bramblepaw are ready to become warriors,"he excitedly told her."Are you sure,Sootclaw and Honeyshine are three moons older than them and they have only been warriors for half a moon,"Dawnstar told him.Rockfire quickly spoke in reply "Yes,I know but I am pretty sure that they are ready." "Rockfire I trust your judgement.But I still think we should wait a little longer," Dawnstar told him. "Ok," Rockfire decided it was best not to argue with Dawnstar.Rockfire padded out of the den to the nursery to check on Windbreath. But as he entered he couldn't see her in her nest. "Where's Windbreath," Rockfire quickly asked Willowheart who was nursing her kits."She went for a walk in the forest,"Willowheart told Rockfire.He quickly dashed out of the nursery and into the forest looking for Windbreath hoping she was all right.Rockfire walked through the forest calling"Windbreath." "I’m over here by the stream," Rockfire heard Windbreath call back to him in responce.Rockfire quickly padded over to his mate. "Where have you been!?!" Rockfire asked Windbreath. "I was just resting,all the commotion in camp was keeping me from being able to take a nap," his mate answered in reply. "For that long!? We've all been very worried." "Well I’m sorry, I fell asleep and didn't wake up till a few minutes ago," Windbreath told him. "It's ok,I'm just gald your safe," Rockfire mewed back. "Well, I think it's time we got back to camp and let everyone know your ok,"Rockfire told the queen. "Ok,and then I think I’m going to eat something. After sleeping for so long I'm  hungry," Windbreath spoke in reply. They walked back to camp together slowly enjoying the the cool new-leaf air. The two cats approached the camp walking through the entrance.Dappleheart ran up and spoke excitedly “You found her! We were all so worried. I'm so glad you safe!" "Well,I may be expecting but I'm not helpless you know," Windbreath answered back. "I know but your so close to kitting and if you started to kit in the forest it would be bad," Dappleheart explained.Windbreath knew that the other queen was just worried and spoke, "Well I'm safe and that's all that matters." "Well I better go return to my duties,"Rockfire told the two queens then he nuzzled Windbreath for a brief second and padded away. Rockfire padded toward the warriors den to see if there were any warriors to do the sun-high patrol with him. He walked in the den to see Wildpath and Sharpfoot asleep next to each other in their nests.Rockfire called, "Hey guys,wake up I need you guys. "The pair of warriors got up and Wildpath spoke, "What do you need,I was having a great dream about a field full of mice. "Rockfire replied, somewhat annoyed with the younger warrior."Well now you can go on a great patrol. I'm going to take you guys, Hawktalon, and her apprentice. The two of them stirred and Sharpfoot got up and stood next to Wildpath. "Well,lets go."Rockfire spoke and went to find Hawktalon and her apprentice, Flowerpaw, with Wildpath and Sharpfoot following him from behind. They had found Hawktalon and Flowerpaw and were out in the forest on patrol. “Rockfire when are we going back. I’m starving!” Flowerpaw told the deputy. “Soon Flowerpaw. You need to learn patience, that is why your mentor is Hawktalon. She is calm. And she can also be quiet.” Rockfire explained. “Rockfire, don’t be cross with her. She is just enthusiastic.” Hawktalon explained to him in a not commanding but explaining voice. “ No, he’s right. I need to be more patient. But it is hard since my assessment is only a half moon away.” The apprentice seemed like a warrior Rockfire thought as he listened to what she was saying. They approached the MountainClan border and to his relief didn’t find a scent across the marker line. They had caused enough trouble and the whole of ForestClan was very tired of it. They remarked the line and went back home only stopping once to catch a few squirrels. They padded through the tunnel to the camp and laid their fresh kill on the pile. Dawnstar came out of her den and congratulated the patrol on there work. Time seemed to fly by for Rockfire and before he knew it it was only a day away from the Gathering and less than a half moon till the birth of his kits.

Chapter 4
“Bramblethorn, Brackenstorm get back here!” Rockfire heard Dawnstar call the two young warriors back behind her. Their sister, Flowerwish, was back at camp in Mossshadow’s den. During their assessment she had been attacked by a fox and was finishing recovering. The two brothers came back behind their leader and stayed there almost the entire rest of the way. They went ahead once more when they saw the Towering Pines, the four huge trees where the four Clans met each moon and discussed news. They were the second ones there with MeadowClan right ahead of them. Rockfire saw WaterClan padding up from their territory and MounatinClan coming down the huge slope out of MountainClan land. As the ForestClan patrol headed down into the giant clearing Rockfire watched as Tigerlegs, Fluffypelt, and Darkshadow peeled away to a group on WaterClan and MeadowClan elders. He also saw Brackenstorm and  Bramblethorn pad off to a group of young warriors. Dawnstar went and leaped up into one of the branched on one of the pines. Rockfire went and joined the other deputies down at the bottom of the most center pine. The medicine cats were off to the right pine next to the deputies. Wolftooth, the MeadowClan deputy, nodded in greeting to Rockfire. Shadowpelt looked away, clearly upset about the battle still. Splashpelt, WaterClan’s deputy said a gentle “Hello,” to Rockfire and began to talk to on of MeadowClan’s warriors, Cloverfrost. Rockfire padded up to Stormheart and Leafpatch and was about to say a greeting when Gorsestar called out, “ Let the gathering begin!” Everybody could hear her because the entire clearing grew silent in a few seconds. “ I will go first,” Gorsestar announced and went on,” My Clan is well and we have a new litter of kits. Two sunrises ago Poppypelt gave birth to Cinderkit, Pantherkit, Crowkit, and Firekit.” The Clans muttered their congratulations and the MeadowClan leader continued. “ I am also proud to announce new warriors. Rabbitstep, Pricklefur, and Foxtail. That is all.” Once again the Clan cheered and then Silverstar stepped up from his branch and began to speak. “ New-leaf has been great and we are well fed. I am sad to announce however the death of Rippleclaw. Four sunrises ago him and Splashpelt were fishing and part of the rock he was sitting crumbled away and he drowned. I don’t know how, he was a strong warrior. We shall miss him.” The clearing filled with shocked meows. The Clans quieted down as Silverstar sat down and Dawnstar stood up and started her report. “ Much has happened in my Clan this past moon. I would like to announce the new warriors of ForestClan! Flowerwish, Bramblethorn, and Brackenstorm.” The Clans cheered their names and Dawnstar continued. I am also happy to announce new kits. Harekit and Briarkit we born to Willowbreeze and Loudstep a quarter moon ago.” She paused and stared coldly at Graystar then went on, ”We have also had to deal with pests.” She spit the final words at Graystar. “ MountainClan can’t keep to their own territory. We had to drive them away a half moon ago. And it will be done again if necessary!” Graystar stood up without any reply and began to speak. “ MounatinClan HAS been eating very well and we have had no reason to eat roadkill.” “ Graystar gave a gaze full of fury towards Dawnstar and continued.” We also have more kits. Leafkit and Widkit were born one sunrise ago and we are thriving.” Graystar finished with a cold look at Dawnstar and leaped off his branch and led his Clan off. Rockfire watched Dawnstar come down from the pine where she had sat and called ForestClan together and they too went on back to their camp.

Chapter 5
Mossshadow layed in her den thinking about the Gathering. Clearly MounatinClan was still hostile. What would they try next? Would StarClan warn her? She was to tired to think about it so she curled up in her nest and fell into a deep sleep. She woke up the next morning feeling refreshed and full of energy. "Mossshadow,should I go check on Windbreath?" Mosshadow heard Lightpaw speak from the front of the Medicine den. "Sure, if you want to. But take her something to eat I'm sure she's hungry." Mosshadow watched as her apprentice padded away to the fresh-kill pile and then to the nursery. Mossshaodw couldn't help but surpress a smile at the thought of how well ForestClan was doing. The Clan was thriving. There were many,many kits. And Tawnycloud's were getting closer to 6 moons every day. With Windbreath getting closer to kitting the nursery would be full. There would be enough kits to fight of a fox. Mossshadow watched as Lightpaw padded out of the nursery and up to Mossshadow. " Windbreath is fine. She is swelling up like a badger though. Her kit's could come any day now." "Well, we will be ready. I went and picked some extra borage, rasberryleaf, and some other herbs so we are ready for anything that might happen while she is kitting." " Well I just hope everything is ok. I mean I just hope nothing goes wrong like with Willowheart's kitting." "Lightpaw, that wasn't anybody's fault. That kit was just born dead. No one could've done anything about it." Sounding more reassured, Lightpaw spoke " Well, I guess so. I just hope all her kit's are healthy." " Well I am sure they will be." Mossshadow was very confident that everything would turn out well with Windbreath's kitting. Lightpaw padded off leaving Mossshadow alone in the den once again. The medicine cat got up and padded out into the clearing. It being mid-morning the Clan was up and in full motion. All the kits were playing with some moss by Tallrock. The elders were sitting in a sunny spot by their den. And Mossshdow saw a group of warrior pad in from patrol and another leave. Everything was great and in order. Everything felt peaceful. Mossshadow watched Rockfire pad off out of the camp and into the forest with Bramblethorn and Mossfire. Dawnstar came out of her den below Tallrock and walk up to Mossshadow. "Good morning." The leader spoke, full of happiness. "A good morning indeed." Mossshadow definitely agreed with her leader. It was a great morning. " Well, how is Windbreath? I know her kits are very close to coming." "Well, yes but I would say we still have at-least half a moon till they come." "Really. I was in there a few days ago and she is HUGE." " I know. That means there are probably three kits at-least. I would say about four." " Oh, ok. That's good. But the nursery will be very full. It's about time I made Mudkit and Fernkit apprentices. I will wait a little longer but I will do it soon." " Well, goodbye Dawnstar. I have herbs to collect." Mosshadow padded away and went out into the forest and down by the small stream. Catmint and horsetail grew there. She wasn't going to pick them, she just wanted to see their growing progress. When she got there she could see the catmint  had started to sprout and the horsetail was already showing a couple stalks growing. Next she went to the clearing between MounatinClan and ForestClan. There grew chervil and since there was so much Mossshadow took a few of the stalks and took them back to camp where Lightpaw put them away in the herb stores. Afterwards Mosshsadow went out by the main entrace of the camp and pick some dock leaves. The leaves were also put away. "Do you want to eat something. I will bring you a mouse." Lightpaw offered. Mossshadow excepted and then Lightpaw brought her a warm mouse just brought in by a hunting patrol. Afterwards the two Medicine cats went to their nests and took a nap.

Chapter 6
"Dawnstar all the patrols have just been sent out." Dawnstar heard Rockfire call as he entered her den. She answered him as he sat down in front of her," Good. We need the prey and I don't trust MountainClan at all at the moment. They are shady and are probably planning something." "I agree. They are cold-hearted and cruel. I think we have scared them off for a while though." "Yes I would like to think we taught them a lesson." Dawnstar got up and approached the den entrance. Rockfire got up and followed her out into the center of the camp. Looking around Dawnstar felt a sense of safety. The camp was in the heart of the forest. A fallen tree went right through the center of the camp. Around the camp was a wall of brambles,ivy, and a few other plants. All except the wall which held Dawnstar's den and the warrior's den. It was pure stone. It was a high rock wall about five tail-lengths high. A fall off of it from the top would most likely result in death. At the bottom of the wall was a cave. It wasn't small but it also wan't very big. This was Dawnstar's den. In a large thorn bush was the apprentices den. And off to the left wall was the nursery. The nursery is a large empty tree stump covered in brambles and ivy, much like the camp wall. The elders den is a small hollowed out tree-stump with tightly woven ivy and honey-suckle for the roof. And the warriors den, the biggest of them all, is a cave carved out by water in the wall, in between the nursery and the Leader's den. Dawnstar stood up from where she was sitting and decided she was in the mood for a hunt.

***

Out in the forest Dawnstar was slowly creeping up on a mouse. "This will be easy. Just like that crow," Dawnstar thought to herself. She crouched, getting ready for a high leap. Just as she was about to spring herself in the air a voice sounded from  behind," What are you doing?" It wasn't a voice or scent she knew so she turned around, ready to face an enemy. " Kittypets," She spoke as she turned around seeing two fat, bulgy cats and continued,"What are you doing her? This is ForestClan territory." The smaller of the two, a ginger tabby, spoke," What's a ForestClan? Oh, by the way I'm Flower and this is Socks." Dawnstar looked at the gray tabby tom and spoke once again, " ForestClan is one of four wild Clans. This is our territory. And you just scared off my mouse. How am I supposed to bring back food to my Clan?!" Socks began to speak," You guys have to hunt for your food? Aren't you cold? Where do you sleep at night? "Yes we provide for ourselves. And our den's are warm," Dawnstar quickly shot back at the fat kittypet.  Flower spoke once more, this time with less question and more concern," If you would like you can have some of our food. We have enough." Discusted Dawnstar explained," No way! I wouldn't do that if I was dying. Your slop is gross!!" " Well we will be leaving now." Socks got up and padded away. Flower gave a dismissal nod and followed him. Dawnstar decided she had enough and went to retrieve her caught prey and took it all back to camp. Once at camp she put all of the prey on the fresh-kill pile. She had caught a squirrel, two mice, and a finch. Satisfied with her work she went to her den to take a quick nap before the patrols returned.

Chapter 7
Rockfire woke in the warriors den. The cool morning weather was nice. But it also mean they were closer to green-leaf. It had been almost a full moon since the gathering. Two sunrises ago Windbreath had given birth to their kits. They were Dustkit, Moonkit, Dewkit, and Nightkit. Mossshadow said everything had gone well and Windbreath was strong. Rockifre had spent all of that afternoon in the nursery. One of the toms, Nightkit, had already opened his eyes. His blue eyes were so bright compared to his soft black fur. Rockfire got up and went to the center of the camp where most of the warriors were waiting for a patrol assignment. Rockfire padded up and started to organize them. He sent Bramblethorn with Ranipelt and Sorrelfur to the MeadowClan border. And Loudstep, Crowfur, and Mosuepelt to the MountainClan border. He sent  Honeyshine, Runningstorm, Swifttalon, and Sootclaw on a hunting patrol. He also sent out one more hunting patrol that consisted of Flowerwish, Hawktalon, and Brackenstorm. With the patrols done he set off for the nursery. As he entered her could see Harekit and Briarkit asleep in Willowheart's nest. The queen must of left for a walk. He approched Windheart and saw that now Dewkit's and Dustkit's eyes were open. Only Moonkit had yet to open her's. As Rockfire approached, Windbreath moved over so her mate would have some room. The four kits squeaked as they  moved over like their mother and than began to suckle once more. " I see Moonkit hasn't opened her eyes yet. But I am sure she will." Rockifre sat down as he began to talk. " Yes I am sure she will soon. All in her own time." His mate mewed back. Dustkit stopped suckleing for a brief second to let own a loud but tiny mew. " I see we have ourselves a little warrior already," Rockfire smiled as he spoke to his mate and admired their kits. " He will have his father's strength and loyalty." " And he mother's bravery and courage." They both smiled and watched their kits with admiration. Rockfire heard Dawnstar calling for him so he exited the nursery and went to his leader. Dawnstar was sitting in the middle of the clearing with Tawnycloud. He walked up to the two she-cats and sat down. Dawnstar qiuckly explained," Tawnycloud and I agree it is time for Mudkit and Fernkit to become apprentices. I was wondering if you would like to choose mentors?" Excitedly Rockfire replied," Yes. I would be happy to do it. When do I need to." "Right now would be good. That should give Tawnycloud enough time to get the two kits ready." Dawnstar told Rockfire and then went to her den. Tawnycloud also padded away, but toward the nursery. Rockfire began to think. Who would be a really good mentor? Maybe Mossfire. Yes, Mossfire would be a good mentor. Now just one more to choose. Someone expirenced and willing to take on an apprentice. He looked around. Not Patchbelly, he just didn't seem like the mentoring type. Not Wildpath, she was to young. Swifttalon maybe. Yes, Swifttalon. Rockfire padded up to Dawnstar. "I have made my decision. Mossfire and Swifttalon. I think they would both be good mentors." Dawnstar shook her head in agreement. Rockfire watched as Dawnstar  leaped  up on Tallrock and called out, "Let all cats old enough to climb trees join here beneath Tallrock for a Clan meeting." Slowly the cats began to assemble. Finally when everyone was there Dawnstar called out,"Mudkit, you have reached the age of six moons, and it is time for you to be apprenticed. From this day on, until you receive your warrior name, you will be known as Mudpaw. Your mentor will be Mossfire. I hope he will pass down all he knows to you." Dawnstar turned and looked at Mossfire who had padded up. "Mossfire, you are ready to take on an apprentice. You had received excellent training from Blackheart. I know he has passed on but he was a great warrior. You have shown yourself to be a quick thinker and very loyal. You will be the mentor of Mudpaw, and I expect you to pass on all you know to him." She stopped and watched as the two touched noses and padded down into the crowd of cats next to Tawnycloud. Then she turned to Fernkit who was waiting patiently. "Fernkit, you have reached the age of six moons, and it is time for you also to be apprenticed. From this day on, until you receive your warrior name, you will be known as Fernpaw. Your mentor will be Swifttalon. I hope you will learn much from her." Swifttalon padded up. "Swifttalon, you trained Brackestorm and Mousepelt well and have shown yourself to be patient and determined. You will be the mentor of Fernpaw, and I expect you to pass on all you know to her." The two touched noses and the Clan began to call out. "Mudpaw, Fernpaw! Mudpaw, Fernpaw!" After the cheering died down the cats began to separate and begin to eat and share tongues before bed.

Chapter 12
To Be Continued