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Chapter Text

THUNDERCLAN

Leader: Bramblestar- Man with dark brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a dark brown striped cloak.

Deputy: Brackenfur- Man with dirty blonde hair and brown eyes. He wears a golden brown striped cloak.

Healers: Jayfeather: Young man with black hair and blind blue eyes. He wears a gray striped cloak.

Warriors: Leafpool- Woman with light brown hair and brown eyes. She wears a brown striped cloak.

Dustpelt- Man with dark brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a dark brown striped cloak.

Sandstorm- Woman with blonde hair and green eyes. She wears a yellow cloak.

Cloudtail- Man with long, platinum blonde hair and blue eyes. He wears a white cloak.

Thornclaw- Man with dirty blonde hair and brown eyes. He wears a golden brown striped cloak.

Spiderleg- Tall man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a black and brown cloak.

Whitewing- Woman with platinum blonde hair and green eyes. She wears a white cloak.
Apprentice- Cherry

Birchfall- Man with light brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a light brown striped cloak.

Graystripe- Man with long black hair and brown eyes. He wears a gray cloak.

Berrynose- Man with blonde hair and brown eyes. He wears a yellow cloak.

Hazeltail- Small woman with black hair and brown eyes. She wears a gray and white cloak.

Mousewhisker- Man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a gray and white cloak.

Cinderheart- Young woman with black hair and blue eyes. She wears a gray striped cloak.

Lionblaze- Young man with blonde hair and brown eyes. He wears a golden striped cloak.

Icecloud- Young woman with platinum blonde hair and brown eyes. She wears a white cloak.

Bellsong- Woman with black hair and brown eyes. She wears a gray striped cloak.

Bumblestripe- Young man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a gray cloak with black stripes.

Toadstep- Young man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a black and white cloak.

Ivypool- Young woman with black hair and blue eyes. She wears a striped gray cloak.

Dovewing- Young woman with black hair and heterochromia. She wears a gray cloak.

Rosepetal- Young woman with strawberry blonde hair and brown eyes. She wears a pink cloak.
Apprentice- Mole

Blossomfall- Young woman with dirty blonde hair and blue eyes. She wears a dark dappled cloak.

Poppyfrost- Young woman with dirty blonde hair and brown eyes. She wears a dappled cloak.

Camp Aides: Daisy- Woman with long blonde hair and blue eyes.

Briarlight- Girl with brown hair and brown eyes. She wears a brown cloak, and her legs are paralyzed.

Apprentices: Mole- boy with light brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a brown and cream cloak.

Cherry- Girl with orange hair and brown eyes. She wears an orange cloak.

Nursery Mothers: Brightheart- Woman with orange hair and blue eyes. She wears a white and orange cloak. (Mother to Lily; girl with black hair and blue eyes, Seed; girl with dirty blonde hair and brown eyes, Snow; boy with long, platinum blonde hair and brown eyes and Amber; newborn girl with blonde hair and brown eyes)

Squirrelflight- Woman with red hair and green eyes. She wears a red cloak. (Mother to Alder; newborn boy with red hair and brown eyes)

Elders: Reuben- Man with graying brown hair and brown eyes.

SHADOWCLAN

Leader: Blackstar- Large man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a black and white cloak.

Deputy: Rowanclaw- Man with auburn hair and brown eyes. He wears a red cloak.

Healer: Littlecloud- Small man with brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a striped cloak.

Warriors: Crowfrost- Man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a black and white cloak.

Ratscar- Man with brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a brown cloak.

Snaketail- Man with dark brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a brown cloak.

Scorchfur- Man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a dark gray cloak.

Tawnypelt- Woman with dirty blonde hair and green eyes. She wears a dappled cloak.
Apprentice- Grass

Whitewater- Woman with long platinum blonde hair and blue eyes. She wears a white cloak and is blind in one eye.

Owlclaw- Young man with light brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a brown striped cloak.
Apprentice- Ripple

Tigerheart- Young man with dark brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a striped cloak.
Apprentice- Spike

Pinenose- Young woman with black hair and brown eyes. She wears a black cloak.

Cloverfoot- Young girl with black hair and brown eyes. She wears a gray striped cloak.

Camp Aides: Ivytail- Young woman with dirty blonde hair and brown eyes. She wears a dappled cloak.
Apprentice- Berry

Apprentices: Berry- Girl with black hair and brown eyes. She wears a black and white cloak.

Ripple- Boy with platinum blonde hair and brown eyes. He wears a white cloak.

Grass- Girl with brown hair and brown eyes. She wears a light brown striped cloak.

Spike- Boy with dark brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a dark brown cloak.

Nursery Mothers: Snowbird- Woman with platinum blonde hair and brown eyes. She wears a white cloak. (Mother to Bee; girl with platinum blonde hair and brown eyes, Yarrow; girl with orange hair and brown eyes, Gull; girl with platinum blonde hair and brown eyes, Frond; young girl with black hair and brown eyes, and Cone; newborn boy with black hair and brown eyes)

Kinkfur- Woman with long brown hair and brown eyes. She wears a striped cloak. (Mother to Mist; girl with black hair and brown eyes and Sparrow; boy with brown hair and brown eyes)

Dawnpelt- Young woman with blonde hair and brown eyes. She wears a yellow cloak. (Mother to Juniper; newborn with with black hair and green eyes)

Elders: Oakfur- Small man with brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a brown cloak.

WINDCLAN

Leader: Onestar- Man with light brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a brown striped cloak.

Deputy: Harespring- Young man with brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a light brown and white cloak.
Apprentice- Slight

Healer: Kestrelflight- Young man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a dark gray cloak.

Warriors: Crowfeather- Man with black hair and blue eyes. He wears a dark gray cloak.

Nightcloud- Woman with black hair and brown eyes. She wears a black cloak.
Apprentice- Hoot

Weaselfur- Man with orange hair and brown eyes. He wears an orange and white cloak.

Emberfoot- Man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a gray and black cloak.

Gorsetail- Woman with black hair and blue eyes. She wears a gray and white cloak.
Apprentice- Crouch

Heathertail: Young woman with light brown hair and blue eyes. She wears a brown striped cloak.

Breezepelt- Young man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a black cloak.

Whiskernose- Young man with light brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a brown striped cloak.

Furzepelt- Young woman with black hair and brown eyes. She wears a gray and white cloak.
Apprentice- Lark

Camp Aides: Leaftail- Man with dark brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a brown striped cloak.
Apprentice- Oat

Apprentices: Crouch- Boy with orange hair and brown eyes. He wears an orange cloak.

Lark- Girl with light brown hair and brown eyes. She wears a brown striped cloak.

Slight- Boy with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a black cloak with a white spot in the middle.

Hoot- Boy with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a dark gray cloak.

Oat- Boy with light brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a brown striped cloak.

Nursery Mothers: Sedgewhisker- Young woman with light brown hair and brown eyes. She wears a light brown striped cloak. (Mother to Feather; girl with black hair and brown eyes)

Elders: Whitetail- Small woman with platinum blonde hair and brown eyes. She wears a white cloak.

RIVERCLAN

Leader: Mistystar- Woman with black hair and blue eyes. She wears a blue cloak.

Deputy: Reedwhisker- Man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a black cloak.
Apprentice- Lizard

Healers: Mothwing- Woman with blonde hair and brown eyes. She wears a golden cloak.

Willowshine- Woman with black hair and blue eyes. She wears a gray cloak.

Warriors: Pebblefoot- Man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a gray cloak.

Minnowtail- Woman with black hair and brown eyes. She wears a gray cloak.
Apprentice- Breeze

Pouncetail- Man with orange hair and brown eyes. He wears an orange and white cloak.

Mintfur- Man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a light gray striped cloak.

Sneezecloud- Man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a gray and white cloak.
Apprentice- Haven

Mallownose- Young man with light brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a light brown striped cloak.
Apprentice- Night

Icewing- Woman with platinum blonde hair and blue eyes. She wears a white cloak.

Rushtail- Young man with light brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a light brown striped cloak.

Shimmerpelt- Young woman with black hair and blue eyes. She wears a gray cloak.

Lakeheart- Young woman with black hair and brown eyes. She wears a gray striped cloak.

Heronwing- Young man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a gray and black cloak.

Grasspelt- Young man with light brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a light brown cloak.

Camp Aides: Mosspelt- Woman with dirty blonde hair and blue eyes. She wears a dappled cloak.
Apprentice- Perch

Apprentices: Night- Girl with black hair and blue eyes. She wears a dark gray cloak.

Breeze- Girl with brown hair and brown eyes. She wears a brown and white cloak.

Lizard- Boy with brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a light brown cloak.

Haven- Girl with black hair and brown eyes. She wears a black and white cloak.

Perch- Girl with black hair and brown eyes. She wears a gray and white cloak.

Nursery Mothers: Duskfur- Woman with brown hair and brown eyes. She wears a brown striped cloak. (Mother to Curl; girl with light brown hair and brown eyes, and Pod; boy with black hair and brown eyes)

Petalfur- Young woman with black hair and brown eyes. She wears a gray cloak. (Mother to Bracken; newborn girl with dirty blonde hair and brown eyes)

Chapter Text

The forest was completely still. Not even the wind had picked up. The trees stood stagnant overhead, looking into the hollow like voiceless spectators. A sob broke the silence.

Sandstorm clutched Firestar’s motionless body. His arms were limp at his sides and his head lolled back.

Leafpool was wrapping bandages around a wound on Cinderheart’s shoulder. Lionblaze stood over them anxiously until Leafpool sent him to get more herbs.

Whitewing touched Dovewing’s arm. “Are you hurt?”

Dovewing shook her head. She felt numb all over. Her ears were buzzing, overstimulated after the clashing battle.

“Come help,” her mother invited. “We must sit vigil for the dead.” She steered Dovewing to the edge of the clearing were Hollyleaf, Mousefur, and Ferncloud laid. Birchfall stood over Ferncloud’s body, staring grimly at the massive wound on her head.

“Are you okay?” Whitewing murmured to him.

He took in a shuddering breath. “Was Spiderleg fight? Is it really my fault she died?”

Whitewing frowned deeply. All she could do was embrace her husband, letting him press his face to her shoulder.

Dovewing still couldn’t believe it. Her father had been training in the Dark Forest.

“Go see Leafpool,” Whitewing murmured.

“It is my fault, isn’t it?” Birchfall rasped. “I should have known I was being tricked.”

“You couldn’t possibly have stopped this, even if you knew,” Whitewing said comfortingly. “Now come see Leafpool. You’re bleeding, my love.” She took Birchfall’s hand and led him away.

Dovewing watched until they disappeared into the healer’s hut. Then, Spiderleg cut across her vision, approaching to pay respects to his mother now that Birchfall was gone. She opened her mouth, wanting to say something, then thought better of it. Her uncle would use this anger at Birchfall to cover up his grief for Ferncloud.

She noticed Rusty with Mousefur, struggling to position his head friend properly.

Dovewing swallowed down her sorrow, walking over to help him arrange Mousefur in the proper vigil position. She was laid on her back, her hands resting just under her bosom. Rusty’s eyes were red, his face streaked with tears. He let out a wheezy breath.

Dovewing noticed movement at the ruined thorn barrier. Jayfeather and Brambleclaw stood there. “I’m leaving for the Moonpool,” Brambleclaw announced. “I can’t waste time.” His voice almost broke as his gaze swept the clearing, landing on FIrestar’s body. He nodded to Brackenfur. “You’re in charge.”

He turned and stepped over the thorn barrier. Jayfeather followed.

Brackenfur nodded curtly. “Right. Before anything else, our wounds must be seen to. Give yourselves a check and go to the healer’s hut if you’re badly hurt.” Despite the battle, his voice was strong and authoritative, but he let his tone grow soft. “Please, don’t try to be a hero. We have plenty of herbs. If anything hurts, get it looked at.”

Dovewing gave herself a once over, but she didn’t have anything besides a few scratches and bruises. Confident she wouldn’t need attended to, she decided to check on Ivypool, who had retreated to the edge of the clearing.

“You okay?”

Ivypool nodded. “I’m alive, aren’t I? Thanks to Hollyleaf.” She stared sadly toward Hollyleaf’s body. “She saved me from Hawkfrost.”

“She died for a Clanmate,” Dovewing said. “It’s what she would have wanted.” She glanced at the sky, wondering if Hollyleaf was already there, watching them?

Daisy was on Hollyleaf’s other side, untangling her long black hair with a comb. She was gentle, as though Hollyleaf could feel each knot come undone. “She was always a noble person.” Her eyes narrowed. “Hawkfrost got what he deserved, but did Brambleclaw had to make such a mess of it.” She glanced toward the Highledge.

Dovewing followed her gave. Beast laid there, his legs tucked beneath him while he licked off his paws. The wolf had been Hollyleaf’s companion during her time in the tunnels, and had avenged her death by practically eating the man who’d killed her.

She heard Ivypool grunt a laugh, and realized her sister was also looking towards the wolf. “I didn’t think much of him at first, but that pup’s really growing on me,” she joked.

Dovewing gave her a weak smile.

Suddenly, she heard frantic footsteps. Brackenfur was pacing around the clearing, looking left and white. “Has anyone seen Sorreltail?” he called.

Graystripe emerged from the remains of the elder’s hut. “I think I saw her go back into the nursery. Check there.”

“Thanks.” Brackenfur headed for the bramble hut, which had remained in tact thanks to Ferncloud.

Dovewing shook her head vigorously, trying to clear the buzzing from her ears. Something felt wrong. She couldn’t hear Sorreltail.

“Are you alright?” Ivypool asked.

Dovewing stared at the nursery.

“No!”

Brackenfur’s scream of anguish sent a hush over the clearing. Dovewing raced to the entrance of the nursery. Brackenfur kneeled in front of Sorreltail’s bed, clutching his wife’s still body. The air was filled with the stench of blood. The nursery was covered in it.

“She won’t wake up!” Lily squeaked from the other side of her mother. “She came in here and told us she was taking a nap, but now we can’t wake her.”

Seed’s brown eyes were wide. “She’s very tired.”

“Tired…” Brackenfur whispered. His hands were shaking as he held onto Sorreltail.

“Lily, Seed, come out here,” Dovewing urged.

“Bye, mama!” Lily called, joining Dovewing by the entrance.

Dovewing flinched when she realized the two girls were covered in blood. She glanced at Brackenfur, but he hadn’t noticed. He laid half across Sorreltail’s bed, his face buried against the crook of her neck while his shoulders shook with muffled sobs.

“Wake up, my love,” he murmured. “The girls can’t see you like this. They can’t lose you. I can’t lose you!”

“Papa’s upset,” Seed chirped. “We should help him feel better.”

“No, let’s leave him be,” Dovewing urged. She followed the girls into the clearing. Several others were waiting outside, their eyes wide and anxious. Brightheart gasped when she saw the bloodstained children. She hurried forward, gathering them up. Over their heads, she met Dovewing’s gaze. She nodded, confirming the question in Brightheart’s expression.

Squirrelflight stared at the blood covered girls, then raced into the nursery to check on the other children.

“What’s going on?” Sandstorm rasped. Her eyes were still red with grief over Firestar.

Dovewing hesitated, not wanting to tell Sandstorm the truth. She had just lost her husband, and now she had to deal with losing her sister?

“Sorreltail’s dead,” she murmured.

Cherry gasped and Whitewing’s eyes widened with dismay.

“Sh-she can’t be,” Sandstorm whimpered. “She was fine after the battle! I just saw her!”

Dovewing shook her head. “She must have hid it. Or she hadn’t realized it was that bad.”

A wail sounded from the nursery. “Sorreltail! Don’t leave me!”

Brightheart clutched her nieces tighter. Graystripe pressed close to Bellsong, who wrapped an arm around him.

Thornclaw let out a sigh. “May she rest in peace. She was a good person.”

Dovewing could suddenly feel her wounds stinging. What if she did have a bad injury but didn’t realize? Quickly, she headed for the healer’s hut. Inside, Spiderleg was helping Leafpool put crushed leaves over a wound across Foxleap’s stomach. The younger warrior lay still, his chest rising closely.

Leafpool look up. “You’ll have to wait a moment.” Her brown eyes shone with distress.

“Sorreltail’s dead,” Dovewing said.

Leafpool leaped up. “What?”

“She didn’t say anything,” Dovewing explained. “She went right back to the nursery. I think she knew she was dying and just wanted to see her daughters.”

Leafpool’s lip quivered. “There’s nothing more I can do then. Let me finish treating Foxleap, then I’ll bring an herb basket around camp.”

Dovewing emerged into the clearing. The four bodies of the fallen were surrounded by little knots of their family and friends. Ivypool and Cinderheart sat together with Hollyleaf. Bumblestripe was with Graystripe at Firestar’s body and Blossomfall wheeled Briarlight closer to join them. Icecloud and Birchfall sat together with Ferncloud and Rusty was sitting vigil for Mousefur.

Cloudtail and Berrynose were picking through the remains of the warrior’s hut, dragging out any beds or bedding still intact. “We can’t do much building tonight,” Cloudtail said. “But at least the kids will be comfortable.”

Dovewing found a place to sit near the apprentice’s hut. She looked up at the pale stars, trying to figure out which were her fallen Clanmates. But the sky looked the same as it always did. Dovewing didn’t feel the familiar comfort that came with knowing her ancestors were watching them. She still felt like something was wrong. This didn’t feel like a victory. They had won the battle, but what if this was only the start?

She strained to hear how the other Clans were fairing, but all she could make out was the soft breeze through the trees. The forest loomed over the hollow, dark and cold.

Dovewing shuddered. Something was wrong.

Chapter Text

Dovewing was woken by the light of dawn. She was cold, and her breath billowed in front of her. All around the clearing, her Clanmates were stirring after sleeping under the stars. Sorreltail’s body had been brought out from the nursery and laid beside Mousefur. Brackenfur still sat with her, his eyes red and puffy. Dovewing doubted he’d slept.

Rusty was moving through the clearing, gently rousing the others. “The vigil is over,” he murmured. “We must bury our friends. I’m the only elder left. I need help.”

Mole scrambled up to follow Rusty across the clearing. Graystripe, Rosepetal, Blossomfall, and Bumblestripe joined them. Dovewing fell in behind them, feeling cold. When she passed the nursery, she could hear murmuring voices inside. Lily and Seed had been kept out of the clearing all night.

Bumblestripe headed for Firestar’s body and Ivypool walked up to Hollyleaf. Dovewing followed and gently lifted Hollyleaf’s legs. From the corner of her eye she noticed Birchfall approaching Ferncloud. Icecloud and Spiderleg were already there. Icecloud’s head was bowed, taking in a shuddering breath. When Birchfall arrived, Spiderleg stepped in front of him.

“We can manage,” he said.

Birchfall blinked. “She’s my mother, too. I should be apart of this.”

Spiderleg narrowed his eyes. “You lost that right when you betrayed your Clan.”

Birchfall took a few steps back, then turned and headed for the warrior’s hut. Dovewing opened her mouth to call to him but Ivypool caught her eye.

“Leave him be,” she warned. “Let’s get this done with.” She bent down to grasp under Hollyleaf’s shoulders, lifting her up. Poppyfrost and Cloudtail got on either side to help. Dovewing noticed Mousewhisker and Blossomfall joined her father in the warrior’s hut. Had they also been sent away? Dovewing shuddered. Were they being shunned for training in the Dark Forest?

She hefted Hollyleaf up. Spiderleg and Icecloud carried Ferncloud between them. Spiderleg seemed like he could do it all himself if he wanted, but was simply allowing his sister to join. Bumblestripe, Lionblaze, Rosepetal, and Rusty carried Mousefur together. Dovewing couldn’t help feeling a twinge of amusement when she noticed Mousefur’s lips were slightly parted, as though even in deaf she had something to say. Firestar was carried by Sandstorm, Graystripe, Squirrelflight, and Bellsong.

Brackenfur was glancing around, as though preparing to refuse help with Sorreltail. But Cinderheart was able to coax him out of the way so she, Berrynose, and Whitewing could lift her up. Brackenfur stooped to help stabilize them.

Leafpool led the procession out of the hollow and above the hollow, where the oak trees grew twisted with age. The ground here was soft and in the summer it bloomed with flowery moss. The people of ThunderClan laid down their fallen Clanmates and stepped back as Leafpool stood over each warrior, murmuring the ceremony that would send their spirits to StarClan.

Dovewing knew there was no need. They had all watched the spirits rise from the dead and join the other warriors of StarClan. She glanced around. Toadstep and Hazeltail had joined the procession.

“Dad didn’t come,” Dovewing whispered to Ivypool. “Should we get him?”

Ivypool shook her head. “The others won’t welcome him. They see him, Mousewhisker, Blossomfall, and Foxleap as traitors. And they probably see me like that, too. At least some of them.”

“That’s not fair!” Dovewing protested. “They all changed sides when they found out the truth.”

Ivypool looked at the ground. “We won’t win back everyone’s trust so heavily, not after losing so many people. Hollyleaf only died because she saved me from Hawkfrost.” She shuddered. “I should be laying there, not here.”

Dovewing leaned against her sister. “Hollyleaf knew what she was doing. She died the death of a true warrior.”

Leafpool finished the ceremony, then walked slowly along the line of dead warriors. She paused in front of Hollyleaf and her mouth moved as she whispered something to her daughter. Dovewing instinctively listened, but found Leafpool’s words too soft for even her powers to pick up.

Squirrelflight joined Leafpool beside Hollyleaf and the two stood in silence for a moment. Squirrelflight’s eyes were closed, her posture slouched with pain. Then she raised her head. “We owe all of these people so much. We can’t let their deaths be in vain.” She knelt in front of Firestar. “You’ve earned your rest, daddy. Goodbye.”

Rusty stepped forward. “Mousefur used to like coming up here to watch the sun set over the lake. I’m gonna bury her there so she can get a good view.” He pointed to a grassy mound with a clear line of sight through the trees. “I know she won’t really be there, but it feels right.”

“That’s a lovely idea, Rusty,” Sandstorm said. “We’ll do that.”

Dovewing blinked the tears from her eyes. “Come on. Let’s find a place for Hollyleaf,” she said to Ivypool.

The Clan moved silently through the trees, choosing spots for each grave. Poppyfrost stopped beside a young holly bush growing beside the mound Rusty had selected for Mousefur. “How about here?”

Cloudtail expected it. “This’ll do.” he bent down and started to scratch away the leaf mulch, digging beneath the tree. Dovewing and Ivypool joined him, scooping out the earth. On the mound, Bumblestripe, Cinderheart, and Lionblaze were digging Mousefur’s grave.

“Make sure it’s long,” Rusty ordered, “Give her room to stretch.”

Silence fell over the trees, only broken by occasional grunts of effort. Dovewing felt hot and sticky, her hands stained with mud. Poppyfrost and Cloudtail worked on the other side of the hole, pushed against the holly bush.

“Ow!”

Dovewing looked up to see Lionblaze examining his hand. A drop of blood dripped form his palm.

“What happened?” Cinderheart asked.

Lionblaze shook his hand, spattering a few more drops. “I hit a rock. I’m okay.”

Cinderheart’s eyes were wide. “Are you sure?” Her voice held genuine concern and Dovewing knew why. Lionblaze was supposed to be invincible. How could a tiny rock hurt him?

“It’s nothing,” Lionblaze growled.

Dovewing went back to work, trying to push it out of her mind. Lionblaze was exhausted after the battle. Maybe his power wasn’t as strong while he was so overworked. The buzzing in her ears drowned out the sound of scraped earth until Dovewing could hear nothing but her own breathing.

Finally, five graves had been filled. Rusty checked each one to make sure they were completely filled. “We don’t want to attract away hungry critters,” he explained.

The sullen warriors trailed back to the hollow and sank in the clearing, too exhausted to even eat, even though the smell of dinner was wafting through the air. Dovewing noticed Blossomfall was the one dividing up the rations and realized the former Dark Forest apprentices must have been the ones to hunt.

No one thanked or even spoke to them, though. Spiderleg walked straight past Birchfall without sparing him a glance.

The sun was setting and people were mulling around, looking for places to sleep. Suddenly, footsteps sounded in the entrance to camp.

Bramblestar stepped over the ruined thorn barrier. Jayfeather followed more cautiously, picking his way through the broken tendrils.

Dovewing stared after her new leader. His brown eyes glowed with triumph and excitement. She had a feeling the ceremony had gone well.

Squirrelflight limped over to greet him. “Welcome back.”

Bramblestar looked around, and frowned when he noticed Birchfall, Mousewhisker, and Blossomfall sitting away from the others. “Did you help with the burials today?”

Squirrelflight stood up tall to whisper in Bramblestar’s ear. Dovewing strained to hear what she was saying.

“I don’t think that’s any of your business.”

Dovewing jumped and spun around. Whitewing was watching her with clear concern in her green eyes.

“You…you said you can hear things far away,” Whitewing said.

Dovewing nodded.

Whitewing’s concern didn’t dwindle. “That must be hard. Do you ever get any peace? I wish you had told me sooner.”

“It was part of the prophecy,” Dovewing said. “I was given this power to help the Clans against the Dark Forest. It’s okay.”

“You can always talk to me about it if you want,” Whitewing offered. She looked toward Bramblestar and Squirrelflight. “Just promise me you won’t use it to be rude.”

“I never have,” Dovewing said. “And I can’t make out what they’re saying anyway. Since the battle ended, I can’t get this ringing out of my ears. And my head hurts.”

“Go see Jayfeather,” Whitewing said. “There’s no line.”

Dovewing headed for the healer’s hut, peering through the bramble curtain. “Jayfeather?”

The healer poked his head out of the cave. His eyes were wide with tension. “What?” he snapped. “Leafpool’s asleep and I need to change Foxleap’s bandages.”

“How is he?” Dovewing asked.

Jayfeather shook his head. “Not good. Now what do you want?”

“I can wait.” Dovewing began to back away. “I’ll come back later.”

Jayfeather disappeared back into the cave without another word. His temper was even shorter than usual and his tone had been strangely brisk. He seemed frightened. But what could he be scared of now that the battle was over?

Chapter Text

“Ow! Watch it, Dovewing!”

“Sorry!” Dovewing dropped her end of the log. They were working on repairing the warrior’s hut. It had been two days since they’d buried their dead Clanmates.

That hadn’t changed the way the former Dark Forest apprentices were being treated. They had taken to sleeping in the elder’s hut after Dustpelt and Thornclaw had kicked them out. Ivypool had joined them the previous night. Dovewing wondered if her sister felt guilty for being treated more favorably for speaking up first. Dovewing was still angry about the unfairness of the situation. She had been waiting for Bramblestar to say something, but he was focused on organizing repairs and feeding the Clan.

“It’s alright,” Bumblestripe said. “I’ll survive. Help me get this ivy off it.” They started pulling at the dark green leaves. They had tried to salvage as much of the huts as possible, but it was inevitable that they’d be bringing in new materials.

Suddenly Cinderheart, who had been working on the thorn barrier, raced into the clearing. “Blackstar’s here!”

Dovewing watched as the ShadowClan leader hobbled into the clearing, Rowanclaw at his side. Rowanclaw pressed close to Blackstar. It seemed like he was letting his leader lean on him.

“I wonder what he wants,” Bumblestripe said aloud.

There was no hostility in his voice. In fact, none of the ThunderClan warriors who had stopped to watch the new arrivals seemed uneasy. The Dark Forest had completely changed their views of each other.

“Hello, Blackstar! Come sit,” Bramblestar invited, hurrying over from the Highledge to guide the ShadowClan leader to a sunny patch of grass.

“Great StarClan, Blackstar looks like a walking corpse!” Cinderheart commented.

“He’s the oldest person in all the Clans,” Bumblestripe murmured. “He can’t last much longer, even with the blessings of StarClan.”

Brackenfur slid out of the nursery. He had been spending the last two days with his daughters. Luckily Brightheart and Squirrelflight didn’t seem to mind.

“How is ShadowClan?” he asked as he approached.

“Fine,” Blackstar rasped, his voice so faint Dovewing could barely here it.

“We came to talk to you about the Dark Forest warriors who are still with us,” Rowanclaw said.

Dovewing flinched. She noticed her other Clanmates gathering closer.

“We all know the Dark Forest was able to attack thanks to help from within our own Clans,” Rowanclaw went on. “Some of them survived the battle. We need to decide what to do with this.”

Bramblestar looked uncomfortable. “It’s definitely something to talk about, but I figured we’d all decide punishments on our own.”

“We are still bound to the alliance of the Dark Battle!” he growled. “This problem plagues all the Clans and it should be dealt with as one.”

Bumblestripe scoffed. “He knows the battle is over, right? We’re not allies anymore.”

Bramblestar looked around the clearing. “Okay, Blackstar. Perhaps we should discuss it together. I can meet you on the island tomorrow weight.”

Blackstar nodded. “I’ll send word to RiverClan and WindClan.”

Bramblestar nodded. “Goodbye, Blackstar. I’ll see you tomorrow night.”

Blackstar grunted in acknowledgement. Rowanclaw helped him stand, then guided his leader out of camp.

Dovewing stared after him, horrified. “Don’t worry,” Bumblestripe assured her. “It’s not like you’re the one in trouble.”

“But Ivypool is!” Dovewing snapped. “And my father! We can’t punish them for being tricked.”

Bumblestripe went back to work on the ivy tendrils. “We can’t just forget what happened, Dovewing. They did something wrong and they deserve to be punished for it.”

“Does Blossomfall?” Dovewing asked. “Do you really think she betrayed her Clan on purpose?”

“Everyone knows the Dark Forest is where bad people go when they die,” Bumblestripe said. “She should have known they didn’t have her best interests in mind.”

“They tricked her,” Dovewing said. “She’s young. She made a mistake. But when it mattered most, she corrected herself and fought for her Clan.”

Bumblestripe looked up. “You really think that?”

Dovewing nodded. “I trust Ivypool with my life. Don’t you feel the same towards Blossomfall?”

Bumblestripe nodded, then paused. “Thanks, Dovewing.”

Before she could reply, Bramblestar interrupted them. “Can I speak with you, Dovewing?”

Dovewing jumped. He hadn’t heard him approach.

“I’d like you to come with me to meet the other leaders,” Bramblestar said. “Jayfeather and Lionblaze as well. You all know much more about the Dark Forest then I do.”

Dovewing nodded in agreement.

“We’ll leave at sundown tomorrow,” Bramblestar said. “Make sure you rest up.”

Dovewing stared as he walked away, listening to the hushed voices around her. The rest of ThunderClan seemed excited to finally be doing something about the Dark Forest apprentices. Dovewing couldn’t help but find this entire ordeal stupid. They were loyal warriors who had been manipulated. Wasn’t being shunned by their Clanmates punishment enough?

She raised her head, trying to pick up what was happening in ShadowClan. Were they just as thrilled about their leader’s decision? But all she could make out was the rustle of branches as Bumblestripe and Cinderheart worked beside her. A burst of squealing from the elder’s hut sounded as one of the kids stepped on a thorn.

Dovewing turned her head, trying to picture the camp, but she saw nothing but the hollow walls. She shuddered. What was going on? Why were her powers so limited?

She looked around for Ivypool, finding her sister stuffing new beds in front of the nursery. Dovewing wanted to confide in her, but Ivypool surely had enough to deal with already. Dovewing didn’t want to add to her stress. Jayfeather was too busy with Foxleap and his other patients, and Lionblaze was busying himself with patrols. Dovewing remembered how he’d hurt his hand at the burial and winced. She couldn’t hear right, Jayfeather had lost his confidence, and Lionblaze had gotten hurt.

Was something wrong with their powers?

Chapter Text

The moonlight was fainted, muffled by a thin layer of clouds. Dovewing followed the others across the bridge, staying close to Ivypool, trying to offer her sister conform. Ivypool walked with her head high, her gait confident, but Dovewing knew she was scared out of her mind. Brambleclaw and Jayfeather headed the ThunderClan patrol, followed by Birchfall, Mousewhisker, and Blossomfall. Foxleap had been excused from the meeting, left under Leafpool’s watchful eye.

Blackstar was already sitting at the foot of the oak tree, along with Littlecloud. Both of them looked old and frail under the sturdy oak. Tigerheart and Ratscar were with him. Bramblestar stopped in the center of the clearing and gestured for his Clanmates to sit down.

Onestar arrived soon after. He was accompanied by his healer, Kestreflight, along with Breezepelt, Furzepelt, Harespring, and Lark. Dovewing’s eyes widened when she spotted the small apprentice. She’d become an apprentice just a month before the Dark Forest battle had taken place!

The three Clans waited in silence, listening to the ferns rustle. Mistystar emerged, closely followed by Mothwing, Icewing, and Minnowtail. Dovewing blinked. It seemed ThunderClan was tied with WindClan for the most amount of Dark Forest warriors. But these were just the ones who’d survived.

Dovewing glanced around nervously, feeling self conscious. She found Tigerheart gazing at her and quickly looked away.

Onestar began. “What are Lionblaze and Dovewing doing here?” he asked. “They didn’t train in the Dark Forest.”

“No,” Bramblestar replied. “But they know a lot about this.” He stepped between all four Clans. “We must see the truth about what happened and why our warriors turned against us.”

Mistystar nodded in agreement. “Hollowflight and Troutstream were killed during the battle, so they cannot answer for what they did. But Icewing and Minnowtail had their loyalty tested by the Dark Forest. They have learned from this. And they’ve always been good warriors.”

Icewing took a brave step forward. “I lost my son to the Dark Forest,” she admitted. “Beetlewhisker was killed when he tried to stand up to them, not long before the battle began. When I lost him, it made me realized what the Dark Forest was really up to. I fell for their tricks, and I’ll always regret that, but I fought for my Clan for the entire battle.”

“I feel the same,” Ratscar grunted. “As soon as ShadowClan was attacked, I knew something was wrong.”

“The same goes for Breezepelt,” Onestar declared. “We suffered many losses during the battle. I can’t punish one of my few remaining warriors.”

“But they betrayed us!” Blackstar rasped. He turned on Tigerheart and Ratscar, his eyes filled with sorrow. “I lost my wife to this battle. I lost my son and daughter. Toadfoot was your mentor, Tigerheart, and you got him killed! I had to kill one of my own warriors just to save you!” He pointed at Ratscar. “You betrayed us. I can’t let this go unpunished. Not when I lost so much.”

Dovewing felt a pang of sympathy for the old leader. Now she understood why he seemed to frail all of a sudden. On top of his age, he’d lost his entire family in a single day.

Ivypool leaned close to her. “I wonder if he knows Applefur trained in the Dark Forest, too?” he murmured.

Dovewing shuddered, praying Blackstar would never find out. He’d suffered enough.

“There must be a way forward without weakening our Clans,” Mistystar said. “None of us can spare losing anymore warriors, so exile is out of the question.”

Dovewing’s eyes widened. Had it been originally? She stepped closer to Ivypool. “Tell them what happened. Tell them about how Hawkfrost recruited you.”

Bramblestar had overheard. “Go ahead, Ivypool.”

Ivypool stepped forward. Her voice was steady. “I think you should all know why we joined the Dark Forest,” she began. “We all have different reasons, but none of them were filled with ill intent. The Dark Forest warriors came to us in our dreams and promised us things we wanted. Hawkfrost came to me and promised he’d make me a good warrior.” He took a deep breath. “I was…I was jealous of my sister because she was doing better in training than me. I wanted to be as good as her.”

Blossomfall raised her head boldly. “My story is similar. I was jealous of Briarlight for getting more attention. I wanted to show my mom I was strong, too.”

“I was afraid my wife thought I was immature,” Birchfall admitted. “Silverhawk promised to make me the perfect warrior.”

The other former apprentices were murmuring their own stories.

“I wanted to be a great warrior.”

“I wanted more attention.”

“I thought it would help me protect my Clanmates.”

Dovewing noticed Breezepelt and Tigerheart were the only ones not speaking up. She narrowed her eyes. She had seen Breezepelt during the battle and had no doubt in her mind that he was still on the side of the Dark Forest. But Tigerheart had fought for the Clans. Surely his reason was just as noble as the others?

Blackstar heaved himself up. “Well spoken, all of you. But I saw my own Clanmates attack one another. It’s my right to question their loyalty.”

“We were promised different ways to serve our Clan,” ivypool insisted. “We joined the Dark Forest because they tricked us into believing it would help our people.”

“I believe you,” MIstystar said. “Thank you.”

Onestar glanced at Breezepelt. “I trust my warriors.”

Blackstar shook his head. “I can’t agree with this.”

Tigerheart and Ratscar stared at him in dismay.

“It seems we all feel different,” Blackstar went on.

“With good reason.” Bramblestar looked at Breezepelt. “There is at least one warrior here who attacked ThunderClan warriors alongside the Dark Forest. I see that as a betrayal to the warrior code.”

“Breezepelt never turned on his own Clanmates, and that’s the essence of the warrior code,” Onestar insisted. “He’s my warrior. I’ll decide what happens to him.”

Mistystar nodded. “I agree that we should each be responsible for our own warriors. We know them best, after all.”

“Shouldn’t we all take the same course of action?” Blackstar growled. “It’s only fair.”

“ShadowClan doesn’t decide WindClan business,” Onestar snapped.

Mothwing stepped forward. “I think each of these warriors should swear an oath of loyalty to the warrior code,” she said. “They walked in a different path for a long time, but now they’ve returned to the right one. They don’t need punished- they’ve suffered enough- but we deserve confirmation that nothing like this will ever happen again.”

Dovewing sighed out in relief. That was a good solution. The Clan leaders were nodding in agreement.

“Should we do it now?” Ratscar asked.

“Is that a good idea?” Icewing said. “We’d be doing it in front of each other and well…I think it’s best if we all stayed away from one another for a while.”

“Yes,” Bramblestar said. “I think each Clan should deal with this on their own. What do you think, Blackstar?”

Blackstar thought for a long moment. “We’ll do it.”

Onestar nodded. “So will we.”

The Clans began filing off the island. Tigerheart walked past Dovewing and caught her eye. Dovewing turned away from him. His new oath would mean he’d leave the past behind, and that included her.

Chapter Text

“Let all those old enough to hunt gather here!”

Bramblestar’s call echoed off the cliffs. People pushed out of half built huts and carved out caves. It was too early for even the dawn patrol to set out. The moon was still visible against the pale sky. Dovewing yawned, looking up at Bramblestar on the Highledge.

Once everyone had gathered, Bramblestar walked down the tumbled rocks. “The four leaders have decided what to do about those who trained in the Dark Forest. They will swear an oath of loyalty to the warrior code.”

A murmur rippled through the Clan. Bramblestar raised his hands to silence them. Dovewing felt a pang of grief, as she remembered it as the same gesture Firestar used.

“After this, the past will be forgotten and we will look forward to a new future. ThunderClan must unite to continue surviving, especially with winter coming. Is that understood?” His gaze swept the crowd.

Dustpelt and Berrynose were frowning.

“You’re asking us to forgive quite a lot,” Dustpelt said. Others around him nodded.

“No ThunderClan warrior finished the battle fighting for the Dark Forest,” Bramblestar pointed out. “When they leaned the truth, they showed true loyalty to us. There isn’t much to forgive.”

Dustpelt crossed his arms and Berrynose murmured something to Poppyfrost. Spiderleg was shaking his head.

Ivypool stood with Birchfall, Mousewhisker, and Blossomfall at the edge of the clearing. Although she stood tall, Dovewing could tell she was daunted.

“I hope this works,” Bumblestripe murmured. Dovewing nodded.

Bramblestar looked at each of the former Dark Forest warriors. “Come here.” He stepped down into the clearing. The four warriors lined up in front of him. Dovewing noticed Bramblestar looked nervous and realized he didn’t know what ceremony he was supposed to perform.

“People of ThunderClan,” he began, “only you know the true reason you were persuaded into joining the Dark Forest. That reason, whatever it was, no longer matters. The most important thing is your loyalty to ThunderClan and to the warrior code.

The four warriors nodded. Bramblestar paused, thinking.

“Repeat after me: I am a warrior of ThunderClan, loyal to my Clanmates and to the warrior code. From this moment forward I will follow the laws of the Clan until the day I join StarClan.”

BIrchfall began first, then the others joined a bit clumsily. Dovewing couldn’t help but feel indignation that Ivypool had to swear alongside the others. She had risked her life spying on the Dark Forest. She didn’t need to prove her loyalty.

Once the oath had stumbled to its finish, Bramblestar began. “Let this be an end to all divisions within ThunderClan. You all know what you have to do to make your Clan strong again. Carry on with the light of StarClan at your side.”

With the meeting broke up, most of the warriors headed back to the hut. But a few stayed clustered together.

“How can we just forgive and forget?” Berrynose protested. “They gave up our secrets and let the Dark Forest trespass on our land. They’re criminals!”

Dovewing stared at him, shocked. Mousewhisker was his brother! How could he say such things?

Poppyfrost was nodding. “An oath does nothing. They need to prove we can trust them.”

Dustpelt leaned forward and whispered something Dovewing couldn’t hear. She tensed, frustrated. Why couldn’t she ear? She felt a physical pain within her head. Something was wrong. She had to speak with Lionblaze and Jayfeather.

She spotted Lionblaze heading toward her but Cinderheart intercepted his path.

“Lionblaze! You should be resting. You got hurt yesterday.” She murmured the last part in a low voice.

Dovewing realized Lionblaze had bandages around his hand. “I’m fine,” he growled.

Cinderheart narrowed her eyes. “Has Jayfeather check it? What if it gets infected?”

“I’ll go later,” Lionblaze grunted. “I’m going hunting while it’s still dry.” He looked up at the gray clouds in the sky.

“I’ll come with you,” Dovewing offered. She nodded to Cinderheart, reassuring Lionblaze’s wife that she’d watch him.

She wasn’t having it. “I’ll go, too. Let me tell Brackenfur.”

She hurried across the clearing to where the deputy stood. Lionblaze stared after her in dismay. “She should be the one resting.” He was looking at her swollen stomach, carrying their unborn child. She’d give birth before winter.

Ivypool emerged from the warrior’s hut and spotted them. “Are you going on patrol? Can I come?” She was rubbing her arms. “This wind is bitterly cold.”

“Sure,” Lionblaze said.

Cinderheart returned and they headed out of the camp. Lionblaze took the lead. Dovewing watched him stumble over a loose bramble and wince as one of the thorns caught skin.

They reached the bracken patch above the hollow and separated to hunt. Dovewing noticed a rabbit along the trail and crept toward it. She had rounded an ash tree in persuade when running footsteps sounded behind her. She turned just in time to see Ivypool take a deer down.

“Nice!” Dovewing called.

Ivypool knelt down to check the deer. “I can’t believe you didn’t hear it,” she said. “It was right beside you!”

Dovewing blushed. “I…I was distracted by the rabbit.”

“You’d better go after it then,” Ivypool said.

Dovewing headed through the bracken, feeling a sense of relief to be alone again. Soon, she spotted the rabbit again and easily caught it while it nibbled on the grass seeds.

She hunted for any more game, but couldn’t find anything by the time Lionblaze called her back. He was holding a pigeon and Cinderheart had a pair of rabbits. Dovewing felt embarrassed by her single thin rabbit, especially when Ivypool puffed onto the trail, dragging the deer behind her.

“With the weather getting colder, we need all the food we can find,” Lionblaze said approvingly. “Good work, everyone.”

They headed back to camp. Lionblaze fell behind, looking tired. Dovewing slowed to walk with him. Once Cinderheart and Ivypool had pulled away, she leaned close to him.

“We need to talk.”

Reluctantly, he slowed to a halt.

Dovewing took a deep breath. “Something’s wrong with our powers. I can’t hear or see like I used to. You’ve been injured by a little rock! And Jayfeather seems scared.”

Lionblaze didn’t look at her. “We’re all tired after the battle. It could take a bit to recover.”

“But this isn’t a battle wound! This is something else. I feel different.”

“Talk to Jayfeather about it,” Lionblaze said. “He knows more about this than I do.”

Dovewing was surprised. Lionblaze had almost divided them fighting with Jayfeather about how much he kept from them. Now he wanted her to go straight to him?

Lionblaze continued on, catching up with Cinderheart just before they reached camp. Dovewing was the last to enter.

“Jayfeather!” she called, heading straight for the healer’s hut. “Jayfeather, I need to talk to you?”

“Right now?” he replied from inside.

“Yes.” Dovewing pushed through the bramble curtains. As soon as she was in the cave, she stopped. The sandy floor was covered in piles of herbs, some fresh and green, others brown and shriveled. Jayfeather knelt beside Foxleap, who was unconscious in a bed. The healer was peeling old bandages away from the warrior’s wound.

Dovewing stepped back. The wound smelled rotten. “Is he okay?”

“No,” Jayfeather said. He brushed old leaves off the wound. “What do you want?” He began pressing new leaves into the open wound.

Dovewing covered her mouth. “Can he feel that?”

“No,” Jayfeather replied. “I’ve been giving him poppyseeds to help him sleep through the worst of it. Now what do you want? I’m busy. Leafpool’s collecting herbs, Brightheart’s busy with the kids, and Bellsong took Briarlight out for a walk.”

Dovewing stepped closer. “I think something happened to our powers,” she began. “My senses are gone. I’m seeing and hearing like everyone else. Lionblaze got hurt the other day. I wanted to know if you’ve been experiencing anything weird.”

Jayfeather froze. “We’ll talk about this later. I need to help Foxleap. If you’re not hurt, I can’t do anything.” He continued his work tensely. “I can’t get distracted. I can’t let Foxleap die! We’ve lost too much already. Oh, why does StarClan keep punishing us?”

Dovewing stared at him, shocked. “Don’t say that! We defeated the Dark Forest. We won!”

“Really?” Jayfeather growled. “It doesn’t feel like that. All I’ve done is watch my Clanmates die because there’s nothing I can do to help.”

“Even you can’t save everyone,” Dovewing said.

“Then what’s the use of having powers?” Jayfeather leaned down, running his hand over Foxleap’s wound. “Leave me alone, Dovewing. I have things to do.”

Dovewing backed out of the cave. Cold wind smacked her in the face. Something was definitely wrong. Was Jayfeather really just stressed about Foxleap or was something else going on?

“Dovewing?” a voice rasped from the elder’s hut. Rusty was peering out. “I think I’ve got a tick on my back. Can ya come take a look?”

“Sure.” With so few apprentices and one less camp aide, the warriors were sharing chore duties. Dovewing knew it was Berrynose’s turn to take care of the elders, but he was out on patrol, and Dovewing didn’t want to refuse to help. She didn’t have anywhere else to be. She followed Rusty into the hut and waited for him to settle.

“This chill is going straight to my bones,” he huffed.

“Do you want extra blankets?” Dovewing offered.

“If you have time to get them,” Rusty said. “I know y’all are stretched thin already. I don’t want to add.”

Dovewing lifted the back of his shirt, searching for the tick. “It’s alright. It’s probably the easiest thing I’ve done in a week. Oh, here it is!” she declared. “I’ll get mouse bile to take it off.” She started to leave, but Rusty called her back.

“No rush,” he rasped. “Let’s catch up. It’s so quiet in here without Mousefur.” He looked toward the spare beds on the side of the hut, cold and dusty. “I miss her so much. She could be a grouchy old bat, but she was a good person. At least she died how she wanted- protecting her Clan.”

“Yeah,” Dovewing agreed.

“So why does everyone look so miserable?” Rusty said. “It’s like we just finished burying our friends. Have they forgot we won the battle?”

Dovewing wasn’t sure what to say. “I…think we’re all still recovering from losing them.”

“That’s all we lost,” he said. “We lost our friends, but we won the battle and the Clans win on. It feels like an insult to their memories to sulk around like the world is ending.” he slumped back. “Sorry, kiddo. I’m rambling.”

“It’s okay, Rusty,” Dovewing said. “You’re right. We should honor our fallen Clanmates, not mope around. But I don’t think everyone’s meaning to. We’re all sad that we lost people, and some of them feel like the battle was preventable. It’ll take a bit, but we’ll on get back into the grove soon enough.”

Rusty nodded. “Wise words, girl.”

Dovewing smiled. “Thanks. Now I’ll be right back.”

She pushed out of the hut. A sharp drop of rain splashed onto her pelt and she ducked into the healer’s hut. She hoped he wouldn’t mind if she helped herself to some bile. As soon as she stepped into the cave, a terrible wail made her freeze.

“Foxleap, no! Not now! I’ve done everything right! Oh, StarClan, why won’t you let me save my people?”

Dovewing winced at the raw grief in Jayfeather’s voice. Foxleap was completely still in his bed, his eyes closed like he was sleeping. But Jayfeather’s sorrow could only mean one thing.

Dovewing’s lip quivered as she stared at her uncle. She couldn’t bare to tell her father about this. He’d lost his mother, and now his brother was dead. What would Spiderleg think?

“Jayfeather!” Leafpool’s voice sounded from behind her. She pushed through the brambles. “What’s wrong? What- oh, no!”

“Burn the stars,” Jayfeather growled. Leafpool wrapped an arm around him, murmuring comforting words.

Dovewing turned away, her heart aching with despair. She pushed out of the hut and smacked into Graystripe, who was heading past to the firepit.

“Hey, Dovewing, what’s-”

Dovewing burst into tears. “Foxleap is dead!”

Chapter Text

The coughing fit wracked Sandstorm’s entire body. She could only catch her breath for a second to apologize before another cough interrupted.

Bumblestripe grumbled. “It’s impossible to sleep with all that choking. Shouldn't she go see Jayfeather?”

“She already did,” Dovewing murmured. Her eyes were blurry with tiredness and she wished Sandstorm would be quiet, but she also felt sympathy for the poor old lady. She hadn’t slept in three nights, kept up by her scratchy throat.

A dark figure moved through the hut. “Drink some water, Aunt Sandstorm,” Poppyfrost urged. “It’ll help.”

“Thanks, dear,” Sandstorm croaked. “I’m so sorry, everyone.” Dovewing listened as she gulped out of the pot. Finally, silence covered the hut.

Dovewing felt like she’d only closed her eyes for a second before Brackenfur was standing over her. “Wake up! I want you to lead the dawn patrol.”

Dovewing stumbled up groggily, following the deputy out into the frosty morning. It had been three months since the Dark Battle and winter had fallen over the forest with a layer of cold. Dovewing shivered, her breath billowing in front of her.

Toadstep joined her. “I can’t remember the last time I got a full night’s sleep,” he murmured. “Sandstorm needs to move into Jayfeather’s hut.”

“This is a bad time to be getting sick,” Rosepetal murmured, casting a glance toward the nursery.

Dovewing followed her gaze, able to pick up quiet cooing from inside. A few days ago, Cinderheart had given birth to triplets- two girls and a boys. Lionblaze had been relieved from patrols while he and Cinderheart settled a bit. It wasn’t every day three newborns were welcomed into the Clan at the same time.

Dovewing led Toadstep, Hazeltail, and Rosepetal out of the newly built thorn barrier and down to the lakeside near WindClan’s border. The moor was empty and quiet, covered in mist, and the patrol soon returned to camp. The clearing was full as the Clan ate breakfast, stretching their cold limbs and talking quietly. Sandstorm stood in a corner, coughing into her fist.

“Bramblestar!” Berrynose called. “Shouldn’t Sandstorm move into Jayfeather’s hut? She’s keeping us awake all night.”

“And we can’t afford to get sick,” Poppyfrost added.

Bramblestar looked toward Sandstorm. “Is that alright?”

Sandstorm narrowed her eyes. “It’s just whitecough!’ she croaked. “I’m fine.”

Bramblestar approached her. “Sandstorm, you’re the oldest warrior in the Clan. You can’t fight this off as well as you used to. You need rest.”

Sandstorm kept her head high. “I’ll ask Jayfeather for some honey. But I’m fine. I’ll sleep in the apprentice’s hut so I don’t disturb anyone.”

Murmurs of agreement spread through the crowd, then dispersed. Dovewing stayed where she was. Her ears were buzzing again as the Clan went to work. She tried to listen for each individual warrior, but she felt deaf.

“Dovewing?” Whitewing joined her. “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine,” Dovewing said quickly.

“Get something to eat,” Whitewing said. “Let’s talk.”

She led her daughter to the firepit and picked out a plate for her.

Dovewing settled down and began to eat. Even her taste felt dull. She used to love the way fresh venison would explode in her mouth with flavor, but now it felt stringy and tasteless.

“Mom,” she said. “Do you think our dead Clanmates feel like they died for nothing?”

“What?” Whitewing looked surprised. “Why would you think that?’

“It feels like everything has gotten worse since the Dark Battle,” Dovewing said. “Ivypool and the others are treated like rogues and everyone’s forgotten about what they did to help us. I thought Cinderheart’s babies would help bring the Clan together again, but no one’s even been in to visit them. It’s not like us.”

Whitewing nodded. “It was a rough and deadly battle. It’ll take a while for all of us to heal from it. You know that, Dovewing. Just give it time.”

Dovewing mumbled in agreement, remembering telling Rusty that same thing not long ago.

Chapter Text

The full moon hung above the hollow, casting the world in silver light. Tonight, the Clans would hold a Gathering. The ThunderClan warriors milled around somberly. Not even the Gathering would lift their spirits.

Berrynose was murmuring to Toadstep. “I can’t believe Bramblestar wants to take Blossomfall and Mousewhisker with us. The other Clans will think we’ve welcomed traitors into our ranks!”

Toadstep nodded. “The traitors in the other Clans mostly died during the battle. The only one we lost is Foxleap, and he took weeks to die!”

“Don’t talk about them like that!” Dovewing snapped, appalled. “They’re our Clanmates and they fought on our side!’

“Dovewing, what’s going on?” Brackenfur joined them.

Dovewing stopped. She didn’t want to seem like she was crying to the deputy.

“Just differing opinions,” Berrynose said.

Brackenfur narrowed his eyes. “It’s the full moon. Tonight we honor StarClan with peace, and that also means between Clanmates. So no fighting. Now come on.” He joined Bramblestar at the head of the patrol.

Dovewing glared at Berrynose and Toadstep, then followed him. Blossomfall was waiting for her.

“I heard what you were saying,” she said. “Don’t fight our battles for us. We’ve accepted it’ll take a while to prove our loyalty.”

“It shouldn’t!” Dovewing growled. “You swore the oath and you fought with us during the Dark Battle.”

“That doesn’t mean anything,” Blossomfall said. “We still helped the Dark Forest with their plan. Maybe we deserve this.”

They squeezed through the thorn barrier, following the patrol down the trees toward the shore. Dovewing pulled ahead, catching up with Bumblestripe.

“There you are,” he said. “With those short legs, I thought you’d never catch up!” he teased.

Dovewing smiled awkwardly.

They reached the shore with the others and turned down the pebble covered beach. Moonlight shone off the lake, tiny waves lapping over the shore. Dovewing cast her senses out, listening for the other Clans. Were they also feeling somber about the Gathering? But all she could hear were footsteps crunching over pebbles.

Dovewing concentrated harder. Surely her senses were growing stronger? She had left Lionblaze and Jayfeather alone about her anxiety the last few months. Jayfeather had been paranoid about anymore infections and checked over his Clanmates every two hours. Meanwhile, Lionblaze was busy with his new family.

Suddenly, her foot caught on a branch and she lurched forward. She would have fallen in Bumblestripe didn’t throw out a hand to catch her.

“You okay?” she asked.

“I’m fine,” Dovewing said. “Thanks.”

“No problem,” Bumblestripe murmured. He walked with his arm linked around hers.

When they reached the island, Dovewing was shocked to see all the former Dark Forest apprentices there. Only a few of them had come to each Gathering since the Dark Battle. She wondered if each leader wanted to show the other Clans they were loyal. She also noticed the other Clans seeming less hostile toward their traitorous Clanmates. But ThunderClan also had a lot more that had survived after the battle.

Dovewing saw Ratscar first and scanned the crowd for Tigerheart. As she watched, the warriors shifted to make room for Blackstar, who was heading for the Great Oak, revealing Tigerheart talking with Crowfrost. The two smiled and laughed as they spoke, clearly friendly with one another. Dovewing would be jealous if she didn’t know Crowfrost was Tigerheart’s brother in law.

“Hey, Dovewing,” Bumblestripe said. “I’m gonna sit with Blossomfall tonight. I don’t want her to feel alone.”

“Of course,” Dovewing replied, feeling a rush of fondness for him. She followed him to the gap where Blossomfall and Mousewhisker sat. Dovewing ended up between Bumblestripe and Toadstep.

Mistystar began the meeting. “RiverClan is well and growing stronger. Our camp is secure and we are well fed despite the weather. I am pleased to report that Petalfur and Mallownose have just welcomed their daughter, Bracken, into the Clan.”

Calls of congratulations sounded from the crowd. Mallownose ducked his head, grinning.

Blackstar’s turn came next. He was unsteady as he stood, looking pale and frail. “ShadowClan is strong once more,” he wheezed. “We have rebuilt our camp and secured our borders. We are well fed and ready for winter.” He took a breath. “We were briefly troubled by a bear on our back border, but we easily drove it out.” He said down with a thump that rattled the branch.

Bramblestar went next, then Onestar. They kept their announcements short and vague, with news about rebuilding camps and preparations for winter. None of them mentioned the Dark Battle or their Clanmates who sided with the Dark Forest. Dovewing hated that.

Would they all just forget what had happened? After everything they’d lost? Shouldn’t they be honoring the memory of their fallen warriors?

Already, the leaders were jumping down from the Great Oak. Blackstar was slow, gently lowering himself to the ground. Those in the clearing were already standing, eager to leave on such a cold night. There wouldn’t be any chatting tonight. Onestar led his warriors away first, swiftly followed by Mistystar. Bramblestar summoned ThunderClan together and Dovewing was pushed along with her Clanmates.

Chapter Text

Coughing drifted through the trees. “Hazeltail, go back inside,” Jayfeather growled. “It’s too cold for you to be out here.”

“I’m okay,” Hazeltail rasped. “It’s just a scratchy throat.”

“And it’s no helpful to be out in the cold,” Jayfeather growled. “Come on. You’re staying with me in the healer’s hut.” He ushered her through the brambles.

Bramblestar stared around the clearing. “Does anyone else feel ill? You’d better get treated now.”

“Toadstep hasn’t eaten much today,” Rosepetal reported, shooting a worried glance toward her brother.

“I wasn’t hungry,” he said.

Bramblestar shook his head. “Go see Jayfeather.”

Dovewing headed for the warrior’s hut. She heard Brightheart and Cloudtail murmured as she passed.

“Why didn’t you tell Bramblestar your throat is sore?”

“I’ll see Jayfeather if it gets worse,” Cloudtail said before ducking into the gap.

Dovewing frowned, worried. Would the Clan have to deal with sickness so soon after the Dark Battle?

That night, she could hardly sleep, kept away by the occasional coughs from her Clanmates.

When she stumbled out of the hut the next day, she could Jayfeather stepping down from the Highledge. Her heart lurched.

“Is something wrong?” she asked.

“Just telling Bramblestar that Hazeltail won’t be able to work for a while,” Jayfeather said. As he spoke, Bramblestar emerged from his hut and stepped into the clearing.

Coughing sounded from the healer’s hut. Jayfeather looked grim.

“Hazeltail has greencough,” he said.

From behind Dovewing, Bellsong gasped. “What about Briarlight? She can’t stay in your hut while you have a greencough patient.” Quickly, she raced to the healer’s hut. “Briarlight, quickly! Come outside!”

Briarlight teetered out from the hut. “What’s wrong?”

“I don’t want you in there with Hazeltail,” Bellsong ordered. “You'll have to sleep somewhere else.”

Briarlight yawned. “Fine by me. Poor Hazeltail and Sandstorm can’t stop coughing! I need quiet to sleep. Besides, it’s about time I left Jayfeather in peace. I’m not sick.”

Leafpool emerged from the cave with a basket of soiled lintels. “Briarlight’s right,” she told Jayfeather. “She should move into the warrior’s hut.”

Briarlight turned her chair to look at Bramblestar. “Can I? Can I sleep with the warriors?”

The leader frowned. “I’d love for you to, but the warrior’s hut is already crowded. Berrynose and Poppyfrost started sleeping in the elder’s hut to make space.”

By now, the others had woken and entered the clearing. Rusty had emerged from his hut and was listening. “She’s welcome to join us” he called.

Briarlight frowned.

“You can use my bed, Briarlight,” Dovewing offered. “I’ll sleep in the elder’s hut.”

“Are you sure?” Bumblestripe asked, looking disappointed.

“It’ll only be until we renovate the warrior’s hut,” Dovewing said.

“Thanks, Dovewing!” Briarlight called, wheeling herself toward the warrior’s hut.

Dustpelt past her. “If she’s going to move into the warrior’s hut, we should make another entrance for her to better fit her chair through.”

“We were already going to take down the left wall to add more room,” Brackenfur said. “What if we changed the right wall to make room for Briarlight’s bed and chair?”

The two wandered off, inspecting the corners of the warrior’s hut and murmuring their plans.

Briarlight grinned, wheeling after them. “Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can’t wait for my new hut.”

Chapter Text

Toadstep was coughing.

Dovewing couldn’t be sympathetic. He had known he was getting sick. He should have seen Jayfeather days ago.

Hazeltail was still sleeping in the healer’s hut, but Toadstep had been stubborn about joining her. Last night, he’d moved to the apprentice’s hut with Sandstorm so the others could sleep.

Leafpool stood over the firepit, making sure everyone was eating. Dovewing selected a rabbit leg and some smoked greens, then sat down to eat.

It was already noon. The sky was covered in clouds and rain was on the breeze. The people of ThunderClan huddled together to each. Dovewing noticed Blossomfall slipping away, glancing around before exiting camp. Dovewing frowned. The younger warrior almost looked like she’d been sneaking off.

She tried to cast out her senses, then felt the familiar jolt of dismay as her ears began to buzz. She couldn’t hear anything over the sounds of her Clanmates eating.

She stood up and headed out of camp. Outside, trees clashed in the wind, golden leaves swirling through the air. The light was dim, the sun covered by clouds. Dovewing hurried through the shadows. At least she could still sense Blossomfall’s aura trail. Her heart pounded and she kept low, listening of signs of danger. The buzzing noise stopped but her senses still felt dull and heavy.

“Why are you following me?”

Dovewing yelped and spun around. Blossomfall stood behind her, arms crossed and eyes narrowed.

“I…I was just seeing where you were going,” Dovewing said.

Blossomfall frowned. “Don’t you trust me?”

“Of course I do!”

“You might as well come with me. Since you think I’m up to no good.”

“I don’t!” Dovewing followed her up the trail. They emerged into a burst of daylight near the old Thunderpath. Blossomfall set a brisk pace, only to suddenly stop when they neared the abandoned cabin.

Dovewing followed her and found her kneeling over the herbs that Jayfeather grew here. Blossomfall was poking at the shriveled plants.

“I’m looking for catmint,” Blossomfall explained. “I know Jayfeather grows it here and I wanted to see if it was ready. Our Clanmates are getting sick and we can’t afford to lose anyone else before winter.”

“Let me help.” Dovewing knelt beside Blossomfall, picking through the damp earth. Finally, she uncovered a few small green stalks. “Do you think these’ll work?”

Blossomfall nodded. “Be careful when you pick them. Leave the roots so they grow back.”

With a small harvest of catmint, they headed back to camp.

“I’m sorry,” Dovewing murmured. “I shouldn’t have doubted you.”

Blossomfall stopped. “I’d have done the same,” she admitted. “Joining the Dark Forest was the biggest mistake I ever made. I…I can’t even forgive myself.”

“Please do,” Dovewing said. “We have to move on. The Clan will see your worth, I’m sure of it.”

She winced at her own words, thinking of her useless powers. Would she have to learn to serve her Clan without her super senses? Would the Clan still think she was useful if she was just another ordinary warrior?

Chapter Text

Dovewing heaved a sigh as she pushed into camp, carrying a blackbird. The sickness was spreading. A few days ago, Littlecloud had visited camp asking for spare catmint. ShadowClan was getting sick, too.

In camp, Graystripe and Rosepetal were preparing what the hunting patrols had brought in. Bramblestar was watching.

“Everyone did well today,” he said. “We’re working great, even though we’re down quite a few warriors.”

Dovewing looked him up and down. He seemed thin. She doubted he was taking his share, letting his Clanmates eat as much as they could.

Brightheart stumbled into camp, holding a thrush. She had left the children in Daisy’s care in order to help with hunting patrols, although she was exhausted from taking care of both her children and Sorreltail’s daughters.

She was followed closely by Leafpool, Berrynose, and Poppyfrost, who each carried a basket filled with herbs. Jayfeather met them in the center of the clearing. Briarlight wheeled herself over to take the basket.

“Did you find catmint?” Jayfeather asked, his voice taunt.

Berrynose shook his head. “We tried everywhere. It’s all dead.”

“We found fennel, though,” Leafpool said. “I know we usually use it to treat nausea, but it might help those who are having trouble breathing.”

Jayfeather nodded. “We could use hawkweed, too, though I don’t think it grows on our land.”

“I’m sure Kestrelflight has some to spare,” Leafpool said.

Dovewing felt a rush of pride in the healers. ThunderClan had to be the most healthy Clan at the lake. Between two trained healers, Brightheart’s basic medical training, and Briarlight’s help, ThunderClan was prepared for any situation.

Suddenly, there was a burst of laughter from outside the nursery. “Help! Help!” Snow cried. “The Dark Forest is coming for me!”

Dovewing spun around. She relaxed when she saw Mole sneaking up on the tiny boy.

Lily and Seed joined him. “Stay back, traitor!” Lily huffed. “You’re not a warrior of ThunderClan! You're a monster!”

“You’re right not to trust me,” Mole said with a grin. “I’m the most dangerous enemy you’ve ever faced!”

Dovewing stepped in front of him. “What do you think you’re doing?” she demanded.

Mole blinked. “Playing.”

“This isn’t a game,” Dovewing growled. “Why are you trying to scare the kids with talk about the Dark Forest? The battle is over.”

The apprentice’s gaze slid toward Mousewhisker and Birchfall. “Not really.”

“Hey!” Snow wailed. “Why did you make him stop, Dovewing? We’re having fun!”

Daisy poked her head out of the nursery. “What’s going on? You three are supposed to be getting some exercise.”

Dovewing looked at the camp aide. “I don’t think Mole has chosen the best game.”

Daisy narrowed her eyes. “It’s natural for the children to want to spar. As long as they’re safe about it. Leave them be, Dovewing. You have other things to do.” She stepped back into the nursery.

Mole glared at Dovewing. “You heard her. Stay out of my business.”

“I know what you’re doing, Mole,” Dovewing growled. “And it’s not helpful to the Clan.” She spun around and stomped off. Behind her, she heard the children leap on Mole, squealing with triumph.

“We killed the traitor!” Seed declared. “ThunderClan is safe!”

Dovewing’s heart sank. ThunderClan would never be safe if they couldn’t even trust each other.

Chapter Text

Since Brackenfur was leading the dawn patrol, the warriors were left to divide themselves into patrols.

“I’ll lead a hunting patrol,” Poppyfrost offered.

Lionblaze and Birchfall joined her side.

“Oh, I was hoping Bellsong would join us,” Poppyfrost said to Birchfall. “Sorry.”

Looking surprised, Bellsong stepped forward. Dovewing tensed when she saw the hurt in her father’s eyes.

“I’ll hunt with you,” she told him. “We’ll take Mousewhisker, Blossomfall, and Ivypool, too.” She wouldn’t let her Clanmates be shunned.

All four agreed to join her and Dovewing tried not to wince when she saw gratitude in their eyes. Cherry, Mole, Whitewing, and Rosepetal formed another patrol, and the four filed out through the thorn barrier. Poppyfrost took her patrol toward the old Thunderpath while Rosepetal led the apprentices up the side of the hollow. Dovewing took her warriors toward the WindClan border, climbing the hill until she reached the edge of the forest, where the trees thinned out.

Ivypool almost immediately caught a thrush. Dovewing tracked a rabbit that had strayed from the moor and followed it toward the stream. She had to stop when it leaped across the stepping stones and returned to WindClan’s land. Disappointed, she returned to her father as he circled around a pigeon. They drew closer as the pigeon pecked at the roots of a birch. When they were just a length away, Birchfall shot forward, axe swinging at the bird’s neck.

“Nice catch!” Dovewing commented.

Suddenly, footsteps sounded from the ridge. Startled, they both turned.

Cherry burst out from the trees. “Wolf! There’s a wolf on our land!”

The rest of Dovewing’s patrol crowded around. “Where is it?” Mousewhisker demanded.

“This way!” Cherry said. “Whitewing and Rosepetal are fighting it!” She turned and raced back into the trees.

“Come on!” Mousewhisker called. “We have to help!”

The rest of the patrol raced after him. Dovewing brought up the rear. She instinctively reached out her senses for the wolf, only for the buzzing to start again.

They were following Cherry closer to the border.

Suddenly, Blossomfall slammed to a halt. “I see it!” she hissed. “Through the trees!”

Beyond the shadows, Dovewing could make out movement. The entire patrol dropped into stealth crouches. Cherry led the way through the bushes.

“It’s so quiet…” Ivypool murmured. Dovewing nodded in agreement. She had been expecting to hear shouts and scuffles from a fight. But the wolf padded peacefully through the trees, its snout close to the ground.

“Wait a minute.” Dovewing stood up. “Guys, it’s just Beast!”

At the sound of his name, the wolf raised his head. He let out a happy yip and leaped the bushes, tongue lolling with happiness.

“You should know he’s no threat, Cherry,” Birchfall chided. “He’s just watching the border.” He approached Beast, giving the wolf a scratch between the ears.

“Maybe there’s another wolf,” Blossomfall said. “She did say Whitewing and Rosepetal were fighting one.”

“Where are they?” Mousewhisker asked Cherry.

Cherry blushed. “Well uh…they…”

Dovewing narrowed her eyes, letting her gaze sweep over her patrol. “Wasn’t Mole also in your patrol? Where is he?”

Cherry glanced up at her guilty. “He spotted the wolf first. He told me to go get you.”

“What’s going on?”

Dovewing turned when Rosepetal emerged from the trees, followed by Whitewing.

“There you are, Cherry!” Whitewing said. “Where did you go?”

Cherry looked appalled. Behind her mentor, Mole peered out. As soon as he caught sight of Dovewing, his eyes widened.

He didn’t have to explain himself. Dovewing had put it together.

“You noticed Beast out here and wanted to lure us to him,” Dovewing growled. “You hoped we’d blindly attack him and get in trouble.”

“What?” Rosepetal gasped. “Why would Mole do that?”

“Because my patrol is made up of all the former Dark Forest apprentices,” Dovewing explained. “And I saw Mole just yesterday pretending to be one to scare the kids. He doesn’t respect them. Now he’s roped his sister into all this.”

Rosepetal looked disgusted. “Is this true, Mole?”

“I…I wanted to test their loyalty,” Mole said. “And see if they’d actually do it.”

“Likely story,” Dovewing growled.

“You could have got someone hurt!” Whitewing exclaimed. “We’re going back to camp and you’ll explain this to Bramblestar himself.” She took Mole’s arm and dragged him away.

Rosepetal looked over Dovewing’s patrol. “I’m so sorry. I don’t know what’s gotten in to him lately.” She followed Whitewing and Cherry away.

Dovewing had a few ideas. Berrynose was probably filling his kids’ heads with nonsense about the “traitors” in ThunderClan.

“We should go back to camp, too,” Dovewing said. “You all did well today and should eat. You too, Beast!”

Beast barked, trotting at her side as she led the patrol back home.

They entered camp just in time to see Whitewing stomping up the rock tumble to Bramblestar’s hut. Mole sat at the bottom, his head down. He had a right to be scared. Dovewing had never seen her mother so angry before. If even someone as softly mannered as Whitewing was livid, she could only imagine the screaming fit the fiery tempered ThunderClan leader was about to have.

“Hey, Dovewing.” Lionblaze’s voice made her turn. He was standing outside the healer’s hut with Jayfeather.

Dovewing knew what this was about. She joined them.

Jayfeather’s sightless blue gaze met hers. She kept his gaze, willing him to read one of her memories. Maybe his powers has returned. But he tensed with frustration.

“We need to talk. Let’s go outside.”

He led the way across the clearing and out of camp.

“Our powers are gone,” he said. “I can’t walk in the dreams of our Clanmates, nor feel their emotions or see their memories.”

“I got hurt,” Lionblaze said, sounding confused. “I feel so clumsy. Yesterday, I tripped over a tree root and twisted my ankle.”

“I can’t hear or see like I used to,” Dovewing said. “What happened? Is StarClan punishing us? Is it because too many people have died?”

“I don’t know,” Jayfeather said. “But there’s someone we can ask. I’m taking you both to the Moonpool.”

“Lead the way,” Lionblaze said.

“Yes,” Dovewing said. “Let’s finally figure this out.”

Chapter Text

The Moonpool gleamed under the starlit sky. Dovewing caught her breath at the top of the spiraling path. The ground was marked with footprints from thousands of generations.

“This place is beautiful!”

“It’s creepy.” Lionblaze shivered.

Jayfeather led them to the edge of the water. “Kneel here and drink from the water.”

“What’ll happen?” Lionblaze asked warily.

“StarClan will speak to us,” Jayfeather answered. “They will know what happened to our powers.” He settled down on the smooth stone and bent to cup water in his hands.

Dovewing took her place beside him, Lionblaze on his other side. Dovewing looked down at the starlit water, then dipped her hands into it. She shuddered. So cold! But when it touched her lips, she relaxed. It was the most refreshing drink she’d ever had.

The sound of rushing wind made her open her eyes. She was standing on top of a mountain over a backdrop of a dark, starless sky. The wind lifted her gray cloak. Beneath her, the stone was bare and cold. Lionblaze and Jayfeather were beside her.

“Is this StarClan?” Dovewing shouted about the wind. She had expected lush forests and sparkling streams. This looked like the Tribe’s home.

“No!” Jayfeather called back.

Dovewing started at him, alarmed.

“Look!” Lionblaze pointed to the edge of the plateau.

A tall, thin figure stood there. Its ribs jutted out from its skin, pulled taunt over its skeleton. Its white eyes bulged from its bald head.

“The Chronicle!” Dovewing gasped.

It stopped in front of them. “You have something to ask.”

“What happened to our powers?” Dovewing blurted out. “Why can’t I see or hear?”

“You see and hear just fine,” The Chronicle murmured.

“Not like I used to,” Dovewing said.

“Our powers are gone,” Jayfeather said. “Lionblaze keeps getting hurt and I am completely blind.”

The Chronicle nodded. “You have lost your gifts. There is nothing I can do about it. Those powers were given to you by the earth herself. Now that you have no use for them, she has taken them back.”

“What do you mean?” Dovewing asked. “Are you saying the Clans are safe? They don’t need us anymore?”

“The Clans will always need you,” The Chronicle rasped. “But you will never face a battle that needs these powers again. Right now, your Clan is afflicted with greencough. Do you need super senses or super strength or even sight to fight that? Your Clan fought battles in the past without your powers.”

He looked at Lionblaze.

“You are a brave warrior. To enter battle when injuries are possible is courage.” Then he looked at Jayfeather. “You will be known as one of the most talented healers the Clans have ever seen. Care for your Clanmates, but let their dreams and thoughts stay in their heads.”

He turned his sightless eyes on Dovewing.

“You are young, and there are many dangers in your path. You must feel blind and deaf. But you will learn to be ordinary. Isn’t that what you wanted?”

Dovewing’s eyes widened. Ever since she’d discovered the prophecy, she’d been trying to run away with it. She had once begged StarClan to take away her powers, to make her a regular warrior. Now, her dream had come true.

She just hadn’t realized how strange it would be.

“I will learn,” she said.

The Chronicle nodded. “Your powers helped the Clans win the Dark Battle. That is what the prophecy promised, and that promise has been fulfilled. You will feel lesser without them, but you are not. Find the strength and courage and skills that your Clanmates have. The Dark Battle is over. It’s a new era.”

He took a few steps back.

“Remember, you didn’t win the battle alone. Every single person in the Clans fought- from ancient elders to tiny children.”

Lightning crackled overhead, making Dovewing flinched. When she opened her eyes, The Chronicle had disappeared, replaced with an orange haired man, his green eyes glowing. Beside him was a shorter figure, her long black hair curling over her back.

“Firestar?” Dovewing breathed.

Firestar smiled. “Be strong, kids. I’ll be watching you. Even without your powers, you are not alone.”

“We’re here for you always,” Hollyleaf added. “Oh, and tell Beast I said hi.”

Dovewing blinked awake, finding herself at the edge of the Moonpool. Jayfeather and Lionblaze were stirring.

“Whoa,” Lionblaze breathed. “Is everyone okay?”

Dovewing stood up. “Better than I’ve been in a month.”

Jayfeather stretched. “Let’s get back. I have sick patients to look after.” He led the way up the spiraling path. Lionblaze followed but Dovewing hung back for a moment, staring into the pool. She felt a surge of hope in her heart.

The battle was over. They had survived. And they’d survive every battle to come, even the greencough.

She turned and headed after her Clanmates.

Her Clan was safe and her ancestors were still there, watching over her. Even better, she was a normal warrior!

It was a dream come true.