Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The sun peaked through the forest, dappling the earth in a mix of shade and light. The river peaceful and serene, sparkled brilliantly, reflecting upon the shore. It was the kind of day where the forest would usually be full of life. Today, however, a dappled gray tom was pacing by the stream, and the forest around him was so quiet, a cat could hear the wings of a butterfly flapping from several tail lengths away. It was as if the forest itself felt the dark thoughts coming from the tom.

“They're not hers. Oooh! I'm going to make them pay for lying, for breaking my heart over the lie!” The tom laughed to himself, staring at his own reflection as he paced. “First, I'll tell everyone at the gathering! There's no way the other clans will trust the oh so mighty Firestar or Brambleclaw to lead when such vital knowledge slid right under their noses. They'll be driven out, killed if I'm lucky! Oh! And those three accursed kits as well! Then, Squirrelflight will come crying to me, begging for me to take care of her when they're gone. And, of course, I'll do anything for her. Oh, I can't stand the thought of those beautiful green eyes being full of hurt, but I'll make sure she's well cared for and soon forgets her pain.”

The dappled tom paused for a moment as a shadow on the water in the shape of a cat caught his attention. He swiftly turned towards the source, but nothing seemed to be within sight. “Show yourself! I don't appreciate being stalked you know! I'm not a mouse! If you want to talk, come up to my face!”!”

For a few heartbeats, everything was still. Ashfur shook his head and turned back towards the river. Perhaps he was hallucinating. He hadn't slept well in moons, not knowing she dumped him for some flea pelted, fox hearted, mouse brained son of Tigerstar! Just as he began his pacing and thinking about how to get back at those that had ruined his life, something heavy slammed into his side with a screech. “You've betrayed your clanmates and the warrior code for the last time!”

Ashfur spun around, hissing in disgust at the sight of his attacker. A black she cat stood over him, holding him down as he struugled to kick up at her soft belly. Her green eyes that once reminded him of Squirrelflight's now only reflected of hatred. “Hollyleaf! Who are you to talk about the warrior code, considering the cats that raised you! Considering how the code means nothing to those that will protect their lies and ignore my needs!”

Hollyleaf hesitated a moment, giving Ashfur the opening he needed. Slamming his paws into her belly, he sent the young she cat tumbling backwards. Surprisingly, she caught her bearings rather quickly and shook her head, the hatred in her gaze turning to… sympathy?! How dare she! She was part of the problem! She had no right! “Forgive me, but to preserve the code, one more must be broken…” Hollyleaf murmured, leaping once more at the tom.

Ashfur tried to step away from her advances, but his paws slid on the muddy bank, causing him to fall back. A sharp pain shook through his body as his head slammed into stone. His body refused to move as Hollyleaf stood over him, her sympathetic gaze now full of sorrow. “Forgive me, Starclan. I do this for your sake…” She murmured. Ashfur opened his mouth, trying to curse at the black she cat, but her claws tore swiftly into his neck. Warm, crimson blood spilled from the wound and Ashfur gasped, narrowing his gaze with hate for the she cat as she backed away, horrified by her own actions. “You'll pay one day…” He thought as his consciousness faded.

“Ashfur! Ashfur, my dear, wake up!” A gentle, familiar she cat's voice mewed in the dappled tom's ear. He groaned, opening his gaze, hissing slightly at the sudden brightness of the light of Starclan's hunting grounds. The she cat purred and nudged his shoulder. “You'll get used to it. That is… if…” She cut herself off as Ashfur's gaze slowly focused on the cat that was speaking to him. He gasped as he instantly recognized her beautiful pale gray, dappled tabby fur and loving green eyes.

“Brindleface!” Ashfur found himself tearing up, thrusting his muzzle into his mother's chest. “I haven't forgotten…. I haven't forgotten what Tigerstar did to you all those moons…” Brindleface gently pressed her paw on his muzzle.

“I know dear. I know… I'm sorry I wasn't there for you, Ferncloud, or Cloudtail…” As she spoke and began wiping her tears, two gray heads shyly poked out from behind her. At first, Ashfur didn't recognize the two kits. But finally, the pure gray tom eagerly chirped and ran over to him, hugging his leg.

“Ashkit! Well… I guess Ashfur now! Our brother! We missed you!” Ashfur froze a moment as early memories of his days in the nursery came flooding back to him.

“Elderkit! Tulipkip!” He purred, though admittedly he was a bit uncomfortable with his small littermates getting cozy with him. They were too young, too innocent to relate to his pain. Even Brindleface, as happy as he was to see his mother, couldn't fill the void in his heart.

“We're Elderberry and Tulipfang now!” The other tom that closely resembled their mother chirped with a little, still shy smile, clearly not as outgoing as his brother. Brindleface opened her mouth like she was going to protest, but Elderberry nodded, weaving around Ashfur’s legs. “We met a really cool warrior! He’s small, just like us, but he looks like a really cool badger. He… he said he got to pick his name and so Tulipfang and I picked ours. Aren't they real neat?!”

Ashfur stared at the tiny kits, trying to not roll his eyes. Would Starclan really allow boys that did nothing to earn their names the rank of warrior? They knew nothing of the hardships a real warrior faced. Still, he forced a smile and nodded. “Yes, those are good, strong names, though honestly, I'm not too surprised by yours Elderberry.” He did his best to not choke out his brother's chosen name as he ran back to the other kit, playfully throwing himself onto his back. “See! Told you he'd like them, Tulipfang!” He squealed happily as the dappled kit gave a startled yelp and swatted at his ears. “No fair, Elderberry!”

Brindleface shook her head with an amused sigh then turned back to Ashfur. There was fear in her eyes, which the warrior couldn't understand. Why was she so worried? Wasn't Starclan supposed to be some paradise, away from traitors like Tigerstar? Wasn't there nothing here to upset these cats? “I didn't just come here to introduce you to your siblings. The thing is…” She hesitated, which irritated Ashfur. He wanted to yowl at her to spit it out, but he didn't want to ruin his reunion for his mother, probably the only cat that had cared about how much Squirrelflight had hurt him. Maybe she was going to tell him Starclan would send her with Brambleclaw to the dark forest for her deceit, keeping her further from him. That was no real revenge if they were together! How would be win her over across the borders of the afterlife?!

“Oh, Ashfur, I hate to tell you this, but Starclan wishes to put you on trial for your actions… They said I could take you, but I'm not allowed to be one of the judges since I'd be too soft on you, my son.” Brindleface meowed as tears welled in her green eyes, staining her striped face as they poured.

“They… what?!” Ashfur gasped, falling back onto his hind quarters at his mother's news. Starclan dared to judge him?! He was the victim! The clan turned their back on him! He was murdered by the paws of one of them! Well, if Starclan really insisted on a trial, he supposed he didn't have a choice. He'd turn it on those that has hurt him most instead. “Alright, Brindleface. Take me there. I have nothing to hide.” He meowed gruffly.

Chapter Text

Brindleface led Ashfur to a clearing full of cats he didn't recognize and a few that he did. Ashfur held back a snort as he stared at the self-righteous cats covered in stars. If these cats really cared, they'd have helped him moons ago. They meant nothing to him now. At the head of the gathered cats stood a blue eyed blue-gray she cat. Not far behind was a dark gray she cat with a flat muzzle and eyes that were nearly orange. Ashfur knew those two all too well, Bluestar and Yellowfang. But who were the other two? On Bluestar's other side stood a blue eyed white she cat with ears that were tipped by gray. Her posture made her look much like Bluestar and he wondered if they were related somehow. Just beside the she cat was a green eyed sandy gray tom with white on his chest. He certainly didn't recognize anything about this tom, but the way he was glaring at him, Ashfur felt as though the tom was digging his claws into his chest.

The tom flicked his tail for the cats of Starclan to settle down where they stood. He then cleared his throat and took a step beside Bluestar. “Greetings, Ashfur, my name is Thrushpelt. Starclan brings you here today to be judged for your crimes. Many cats that would try what you have would immediately be sent to the dark forest. However, we… they cannot ignore the good you've done for your clan as well. This trial will determine your very soul’s placement.”

Ashfur snorted as many of the Starclan cats whispered indistinguishably among themselves. A wide eyed gray and white kit tried to run to Bluestar and the white she cat, but was held back by a reddish brown tom who quietly shook his head. “I have nothing to hide, Thrushpelt. I think, by the end of this, you'll agree that my actions were quite reasonable after everything that's happened, and that placing me with traitors would only be a mistake.”

“We'll see about that.” Thrushpelt meowed, seeming to remain calm, though Ashfur was certain that he could sense a hint of a growl in his voice. Bluestar nodded to the tom then turned her attention to Ashfur, her gaze cool and unreadable, sending slight chills down Ashfur’s spine.

“Ashfur,” Bluestar's meow rang authoritatively through the clearing, “tell us why Starclan should permit you to hunt on these sacred grounds! First, there's the matter where you conspired with Hawkfrost to murder Firestar! Because of your actions, a life was unnecessarily lost, and more could have been without Brambleclaw’s bravery in that moment. Then, there's the matter of attempting to murder three innocent cats in that fire. Don't you understand their significance?! You could have destroyed every clan!” She hissed, slicing the earth with her claws. The Starclan cats all gasped in awe and murmured together.

Ashfur shook his head, taking a deep breath. This was too easy. Was that really what all of this was about? “Surely, you must be joking. I'm a victim in all of this you know!” He purred smoothly, feeling a sense of confidence overcoming him. “First of all, I'd like to point out that Squirrelflight dumping me for Brambleclaw messed with my mind completely. I loved her so much and it hurt. Hawkfrost’s deal sounded so perfect. I help him trap Firestar and run for help. No one had to know I was involved, and Squirrelflight would see me as a hero! I'd win her affections for sure, or so I thought. Brambleclaw interfered far too soon! But don't you see, I did it for love! What better way to earn the affections of a she cat than by being her hero?”

At his words, the snowy white she cat's eyes shone with grief, as if remembering some distant memories. “I know what he means…” She muttered dryly. “I know he never actually saved me, but I still saw the potential in Thistleclaw to be a hero. But…” She paused then stared darkly at Ashfur, “he wasn't one. He went to the dark forest for his own crimes. Being heroic isn't enough! You put every clan in danger, as well as your own leader!

Ashfur gave a slightly amused snort, now understanding who this cat was. Whitestorm, in one of his few visits to the nursery when Ashfur was a kit, had told him vague old memories of a young queen, Snowfur, who fell for the dark warrior. She was his own grandmother! “Well, Snowfur, I'm glad you brought that up, because it just so happens it leads to my next part.” He purred silkily. “You see, I never agreed with Hawkfrost to actually take Firestar's lives. That was an unfortunate mistake, as he hid those details from me.” He meowed innocently. “I should have known to not trust the son of Tigerstar, but I was in love. You don't think when you're in love, do you?!” He meowed, eyeing Yellowfang slightly.

Yellowfang awkwardly shifted her paws, catching his gaze, though her eyes remained as hard as ever, obviously trying to ignore his accusation. “The three cats being trapped in the fire was Squirrelflight's fault. She went off to supposedly have three kits with the cat that had hesitated to save Firestar, when I was the one that went for help. I wanted her to understand the pain I was going through, by scaring her with the lives of her three kits, but so you really think I'd have let them die?! I would have stepped aside at the last moment, just enough to show her true pain without causing it permanently.” He lied, though he kept his tone steady and even. “She exposed to truth to me and I let them go. Either way, they were safe. I don't see how this is an issue of endangering the clans over three cats I never intended to actually harm. And even if they were important, I'm not the only cat here that endangered the clans out of love, am I?!”

“Enough!” Yellowfang hissed at the accusation. “You're right, of course. My love of Raggedstar did lead to the birth of Brokenstar and the death of many innocents. But, I paid for my actions in life and made up for them to the best of my abilities!” The old she cat's meow sliced through the air, though Ashfur could sense he'd hit the mark just right. Who was Starclan to accuse him of endangering the clans when SHE was allowed here anyways?

“Wasn't my bleeding heart, work to expose the lie, and paying with my life from one of their own paws enough punishment as well?” Ashfur meowed, gazing at every warrior of Starclan this time around, feeling satisfied as he saw a few cats that looked like they had grown sympathetic. “It's too late for your sympathies now though, isn't it? I'm dead!” He thought bitterly.

“I think we've heard enough!” Yellowfang growled, turning to her companions. “We must all take a vote. Two of the four of us must agree that he doesn't belong, or else he stays.

Ashfur sat with a smug smile as the four cats gathered into a huddle, whispering. Ashfur watched as Thrushpelt’s tail whipped aggressively every few moments, while Yellowfang and even Bluestar seemed to be trying to calm him. He might be trouble. He'd have to keep a close watch on that one.

“Do you really have to go?!” Elderberry’s tiny meow startled Ashfur, as he turned to see the dark gray kit had broken away from their mother. “You just got here. We wanna play some more, but that big tom is being really mean to you!!”

Ashfur purred, pulling the kit close and giving him a loving lick between the ears, which he knew would only help his case. “Of course not. Starclan is very smart. I know they'll make the right choice. I'm not scared of ol’ Thrushpelt.”

Elderberry purred and nodded, nuzzling Ashfur’s leg before running back to Tulipfang and Brindleface. Brindleface sighed and nuzzled Elderberry, lovingly licking his bristled dark pelt. “Hush, Elderki…berry. The trial isn't over and we mustn't interfere.”

Ashfur sat patiently for what felt like an eternity. He had no reason to fear. Starclan would be on his side. Why wouldn't they? Bluestar turned towards the gathered crowd and cleared her throat. Thrushpelt’s fur stood on end and his tail lashed as the former Thunderclan leader spoke. “Ashfur, Starclan has spoken. By a vote of two to two, we welcome you among our ranks. Your actions were not admirable, but it's hard to deny that you were blinded by love, which is something I think many cats can understand.”

Thrushpelt growled and stalked off with a whip of his slender tail. Snowfur looked at Bluestar with a frown and shook her head, following after the angry tom. At least now, Ashfur knew who to keep an eye on besides the angry tom. What was his problem anyways?!

Brindleface approached Ashfur and thrust her head into his side with a loud purr. “Oh, I was so scared! I didn't think I could breathe!” She rasped.

To his surprise, Tulipfang gave a loud squeal of delight and wrapped his tiny paws around his leg, joined soon by Elderberry. “You're going to stay, Ashfur! I'm so glad!” The dappled young tom meowed, his eyes swelling with tears.

Ashfur gave an amused purr, licking his tears and pulling his littermates close while looking at Brindleface. “Of course. Starclan knew what I deserved, and that's you all.” His gaze turned to the cats that began to leave and he fought every urge to growl at them while his kin were with him. “This is only the beginning… If I can't make them pay for abandoning me in life, they'll pay from the afterlife. I'll show them just how imperfect they are… somehow” He thought.

Chapter Text

Ashfur lay by the pool which reflected the living warriors, his gaze following after Squirrelflight longingly. He'd been in Starclan a few moons now, yet she didn't seem to care. Even now, when she and Brambleclaw had broken up when the truth had been revealed, she still seemed to think more highly of that deputy! Brambleclaw never cared about her! Yet, Ashfur watched over her every day and she didn't care! Why did she still love HIM?!

Giving a frustrated growl, Ashfur sliced through the water with his claws. He'd thought and thought for ages on how to get back at those that wronged him, but nothing seemed to come to mind. Giving a final glance into the pool, he gave a soft sigh, feeling his hate and anger ease into grief. Perhaps a visit with his littermates would ease his worries a bit. He hated to admit it, but he had grown quite fond of the energetic young toms. Their innocence was something he wished he could share. They often reminded him of the kits he had once hoped to share with the beautiful ginger she cat.

Ashfur headed for the clearing where he and his family had been sharing a den. He gave a frustrated sigh as a gray and white she kit, he'd grown to learn was named Mosskit, ran by with Oakheart and Stonefur chasing after her, laughing. “Come back here and take your bath! Bluestar and I won't have you getting stardust stuck in your fur again” Oakheart playfully yowled after the she kit as the family disappeared. Oakheart and Bluestar broke the code to have those kits! Why should they be happy with them, while he was stuck without ever having his own with Squirrelflight their romance was pure! It just wasn't fair!

A desperate yowl broke Ashfur’s fixation on the small family. Brindleface ran from her den, her eyes wide with desperation as several starry cats gathered at her wail. “Brindleface, what's going on?” A deep meow arose from a yellow eyed white tom as he came up to her alongside a pale gray she cat, their pelts brushing together, making Ashfur feel a bit sick.

Brindleface wailed, pushing her face into the white tom's fur, not seeming to care that the she cat, Willowpelt, looked slightly uncomfortable by the gesture. Still, Willowpelt's gaze softened and she gave her former clanmate a gentle nudge. “Yes, Brindleface. Whitestorm and I will help you, but we need to know what's wrong.”

Brindleface looked at Willowpelt a moment before looking directly to Whitestorm. “They… they're missing! The… our kits!” She gasped, shaking. “Oh, Whitestorm! I turned my back for one moment to clean the nests, while they went to play, and now they're gone!”

Whitestorm gasped, stroking the dappled tabby she cat’s cheek, gently with his paw. It looked like he was trying to say something to comfort her, but Ashfur lost interest in watching him act like he cared about his mother, and he turned with a huff to ignore the rest. “I'll find them! They might have gotten lost playing by the starry oaks! I know them well!” Without waiting for a cat to volunteer to come with him, Ashfur dashed off, keeping alert for any sign of his littermates. It couldn't be too bad, this was Starclan after all. They probably just decided to climb a tree and couldn't get down. He didn't need a patrol for that.

Ashfur padded along the starry grounds for what felt like several moons. His paws began to ache but he kept pushing on. Those kits and Brindleface were about the only cats he cared about among these hypocritical starry warriors. He wasn't going to have two of them lost. He soon found his paws wandering to a border he'd never seen in his exploration of Starclan in the past. Thick mists lapped hungrily at the border, as if threatening to overtake the bright skies of Starclan. He gave an annoyed snort and turned to leave, realizing from nursery tales that this must be the dark forest. Elderberry and Tulipfang were smart enough to avoid this cursed place.

“You might not want to do that.” Purred a silky voice that Ashfur was unfamiliar with. “You see, I have a proposition. We're not so different, you and I.” The she cat's voice meowed with a hint of honey in her tone.

“Look! I don't have time to talk! I'm going to find my siblings and I don't need your help, whoever you are!” Ashfur meowed, spinning with a frustrated hiss. His gaze locked with an amused, half faded, amber eyed tortoiseshell she cat on the other side of the border. She flicked her thick white tail, looking at her claws with a humm. Ashfur narrowed his eyes and stalked closer to the dark warrior. “You're a dark forest cat! I CERTAINLY don't make deals with your kind!” He spat, though to his dismay, the act only seemed to amuse the she cat further. “You're in the dark forest! I'm in Starclan! We have NOTHING in common!”

“Tsk! Tsk! Tsk! That's no way to talk to your elders. That hurts.” She meowed, mocking him with a fake pout. “Don't young cats know about me, Mapleshade?! I was wronged too, you know. But, I see you won't listen until you have what you want. I can help you with that.” Mapleshade purred.

“And how can…” Ashfur was quickly cut off as Mapleshade pointed a claw to a twisted, leafless tree on her side of the border. Tangled in its sharp, tight branches, Elderberry and Tulipfang were wailing and struggling, only to have the branches dig deeper into their soft pelts.

“Let us go, you ugly she cat! Our big brother is going to beat you up bad now!” Elderberry yowled. Ashfur felt a sense of pride at his brother's spunk, which was quickly replaced by hate for the tortoiseshell cat.

“You'll die again for that, Mapleshade!” He yowled, leaping over the border. Mapleshade yawned and rolled away lazily, easily avoiding paw swipe after paw swipe.

“Relax, Ashfur. Your form is sloppy. Besides, I wouldn't hurt a kit, unlike SOME of your starry companions! I only lured them here to get your attention, but they're unharmed. You can let them go. I won't stop you!” Mapleshade purred silkily.

Ashfur gave one last hiss, managing to smack the smug she cat's nose at last, watching as small scarlet droplets of blood flew from her fresh wound. Still, as much as he would have loved to continue swipe that smug look from her face, his brothers came first. He spun towards the tree, keeping his ears angled towards Mapleshade in case she tried to double cross him. “Hang on you two! I'll get you down, then run home!” He hissed, biting into the twisted branches. Sharp thorns from the branches pierced deeply into his mouth as he pulled. Ashfur could taste the warm tang of blood as it poured from his jaws, but he refused to give up.

“Ashfur! You're bleeding!” Tulipfang whimpered, trying to reach a gentle paw towards him. “I'm so sorry! We didn't mean…” He stopped and started to cry as Elderberry brushed him with his tail.

“It'll be okay, Tulipfang. Ashfur’s taken on way harder opponents than that mouse brained she cat and some sharp branches! He's the coolest!”

Ashfur eyed the two kits sympathetically with each tear of the branches. Once they were free and gone, he would give Mapleshade a piece of his mind. Caught in thorny branches?! Unharmed his tail! And then they're was Mapleshade herself, watching with a smug grin, her amber eyes so chillingly cool and calm that it disgusted him. With one final twist of his neck, the thorns poked deeper into the roof of his mouth, but the branches gave a sickening crack and tore away.

Elderberry and Tulipfang hopped to their paws and pressed their noses into Ashfur’s legs with loud purrs. “Now you're really gonna get it now MapleFADE!” Elderberry hissed, bunching his muscles in an attempt to leap at the dark warrior. Ashfur hissed, pulling Elderberry back swiftly by the scruff, picking up Tulipfang as well. He hopped down from the tree and padded to the border, glancing back to Mapleshade, who kept staring back with a sickening sweet smile. Some help she'd been! All of this was her fault. He wouldn't let her get away with taking his siblings that easily.

Ashfur took the kits one the border with a lash of his tail. He sat the kits down, staring into each of their pale blue eyes. “Now, you two go home. I'm going to teach this she cat some manners, and I don't want you two to see the damage I'm about to cause.”

Tulipfang nodded with a shiver, but Elderberry fluffed his gray pelt in indignation. “No way, Ashfur! Maybe Tulipfang should go! He wanted to be a medicine cat ever since Yellowfang took care of him in the medicine den, anyways. But I'm a warrior, just like you! I have my warrior name!”

Ashfur shook his head. Lifting a paw, he gently placed it on Elderberry’s tiny head, ruffling his soft fur. “You have the heart and minds of a medicine cat and a warrior, but none of the training. Besides, it wouldn't be very kind to strand a medicine cat that's been through so much trauma.”

Elderberry pouted, but looked thoughtful for a moment. After a bit longer, he finally nodded and turned to Tulipfang who was still staring across to Mapleshade with wide eyes that seemed to reflect something more than fear. Betrayal? Ashfur could almost sense it. Maybe it wasn't in the same way he felt betrayed, but it was there. Oh yeah, this she cat was about to be more than half faded in a moment.

The two kits turned to leave, eagerly chattering about how Ashfur was about to beat up three dark forest cat, maybe even more. After they disappeared from sight, he soon around to Mapleshade. “Now, tell me before I slice your throat out and leave it as a warning for all of your dark forest friends, Mapleshade. How did you lure my siblings, and why?! Talk swiftly. I'm not a patient tom!”

Mapleshade blinked at him, mocking fear as she dramatically threw her paw over her head. “Yes, great Ashfur." She paused and sat her paw back onto the ground, looking bored of his demands. "But, seriously, calm yourself. I think by the end of this, you'll agree with what I have to say. We may even become allies.

Chapter Text

Ashfur snorted, pushing his claws up to the tortoiseshell she cat's throat. “Answer my question you hideous cat. Then, and only then, I may listen.”

Mapleshade snorted, digging her claws into his paw, pushing it down to the ground with surprising force. “No need for that, Ashfur. It's really quite simple.” Her eyes glowed with amusement and after a moment, she threw herself to the ground, yowling pitifully like a cat that had eaten crowfood. “Oh! My leg! My leg! If only some kind soul could look at it! No one here cares to help little ol’ me! I might just die!” She meowed dramatically.

Ashfur gave an annoyed growl as Mapleshade smirked, getting herself back onto her paws. “It was easy, especially with that quiet one taking up an interest in medicine. I couldn't have drawn them to me in any better of a way. And now….” She purred, pushing her face closer to Ashfur's and slightly narrowing her eyes, making him shudder with disgust, “I answered your question. Now you owe me a listening ear.”

Ashfur grunted, pushing the she cat's muzzle away. The smell of crowfood on her had made him want to gag, but he still managed to nod. A deal was a deal, and he was an honorable cat, even if it was for this flea pelted fox heart.

“Good.” Mapleshade smiled, settling down on a rotting stump just beside her. “I'm sure you've never heard my story. That's why I'm fading and well…” For a moment, a look of genuine grief overtook her, As she quickly wiped a tear with a slight hiss. “Thunderclan, Riverclan, Starclan! They're a bunch of hypocrites! It's all their fault they….” She hissed, shaking her head at some painful memory.

Ashfur's heart suddenly fluttered seeing how genuinely upset the dark tortoiseshell seemed. He knew grief all too well and that was not something easy to fake to this degree. And he knew all too well that Starclan and Thunderclan WERE hypocrites, though why Riverclan was too, he didn't know. “Go on… tell me. You have my attention though… Starclan did allow me to stay. You must have done something awful if you couldn't convince them…”

Mapleshade hissed, digging her claws into the stump, ripping out its soft bark bit by bit. “I never had the chance! Pay attention Ashfur! I'll show you that your instincts about them, about their so-called code, are correct!”

Ashfur rolled his eyes, but quickly found himself drawn into the she cat's grief and rage stricken amber gaze. Maybe she DID understand him.

“You see…” Mapleshade began, once again flexing her claws on the remains of the stump, “I was a fool. I fell in love. I had three perfect kits that would have become the best warriors Thunderclan had ever known. But… I broke THEIR rule. Their father, Appledusk, was a Riverclan warrior…” She growled at the tom's name, spitting on the ground.

“Half clan?!” Ashfur snorted. “No wonder you were…” Mapleshade hissed, grabbing a piece of the dark between her claws, tossing out to his face.

“Yes, as if I'm the only one, right? As if Starclan didn't welcome the others, like your precious Bluestar and Oakheart? Listen, will you?! That's part of their hypocrisy, but it only gets worse!”

Ashfur grunted, rubbing his paw over his cheek where the slimy bark had hit him. He wanted to smack her for the insulting attack, yet she did have a fair point. Starclan and the clans worshipped the code, though it seemed they only punished some while others got away without consequences. “Fine, fine. Continue, Mapleshade.”

Mapleshade nodded, clearing her throat. “This is where things get awful. I took our beautiful kits to swim and meet with their father. Oh, he seemed so proud of their skills, as was I. I just knew their future was secure. The clan believed a warrior who had died in battle to be the father, and I wasn't going to take from their fantasy. They could believe what they wanted if it meant my kits were happy. But Starclan…” She hissed, every bit of her torn pelt now spiked, “Starclan told our medicine cat, Ravenwing! They told him my kits didn't belong! He didn't even bother to question them! What of the code to care for kits, no matter the origins?! Didn't he think at all?! Didn't they?!”

Ashfur hissed, shaking his head. “Seems to me it wasn't Starclan's business. I've never heard of them telling the clans to get rid of half clan tra… kits before.”

Mapleshade nodded and hung her head shamefully. “I was a fool. I begged him not to tell our leader, Oakstar. He refused and soon, I was exiled for love, as were our kits. Yeah, protect all kits. Sure. I break a code and I'm exiled with my helpless kits. But Oakstar breaks a code, kills innocent kits, and history sees him as a hero and Starclan welcomes him!”

“Kills? I know the exile was tragic but killing them?” Ashfur meowed with a tip of his head.

“Oh, Ravenwing, him, and his precious kit, Frecklewish!” Mapleshade growled. “I had nowhere to go. My clan all turned their backs on us. My kits were scared and a major storm was brewing. I thought their father, who had seemed to love them so, would accept us into his home. But we had to cross the waters as they rolled dangerously over the stones. My kits… they… the water swept them away! I was helpless to save them! But… Frecklewish watched! She let them drown! She didn't even try! And worse, she was happy they died! Appledusk and his clan found and buried my kits, but refused me the mercy of staying with them and the space where my kits were lay to rest! Darkstar allowed Appledusk to stay, despite him being just as guilty, as he had taken on a new Riverclan mate and she didn't want to hurt the family! Appledusk blamed me alone, and once again I was kicked out! And… when things couldn't get much worse, my kits were crying to me from beyond, wishing for me to avenge them. A life for a life…” Mapleshade hissed. “I killed a cat that had wronged us for every kit until they were avenged and their souls could rest. Only a loving mother would be willing to do so much! But Starclan saw me as evil for wanting them to be happy, and sent me here immediately once I was killed!”

Ashfur listened intently, feeling his own fur stand on end as Mapleshade finished her story. “You killed out of love… It makes sense. You were doing what any queen in your position would do. Yet Starclan scorned you… I understand. I too was scorned for my love… and while I was given the chance needed to explain myself, I know not everyone understands and wants me out of here.”

Mapleshade nodded and looked deep into his eyes with a low growl. “Now you see why they must suffer. I've been thinking of ways to punish them for seasons, but I've always needed an alliance with someone in Starclan. Of course, before you joined, no one would listen to me.”

Ashfur shook his head, turning away. “I sympathize with you, of course. But I couldn't destroy Starclan. My mother and siblings are still here and…”

Mapleshade laughed, stalking to the very end of the border. “You think your family is safe and happy forever don't you? But the moment they're forgotten, they'll be gone. It's not just us in the dark forest! Whenever my story was told, no one bothered to talk about my kits as individuals. They made me into a murderous monster! My kits were forgotten! I met with them on this border for seasons until they faded, curled up frightened in my paws! I lost them twice! And I'm sure your little siblings and mother won't be here much longer after those that did know them are gone. How often did your clanmates talk about them after they died?”

Ashfur froze, turning back to the tortoiseshell she cat. He couldn't explain it, but there was an air of truth to her words that made him shudder. He had nearly forgotten his own littermates, and no one seemed to bother to talk about his own mother beyond the times he, Cloudtail, and Ferncloud reminisced about her together. “Alright, suppose I believe you and decide to help. What do you have in mind? How do I keep from being caught and sent to the dark forest myself?”

Mapleshade purred, settling herself back down comfortably into the earth. “Oh, do I have plans. But first, you'll need to find a scapegoat."

Chapter Text

“Find a scapegoat…” Mapleshade's plan had Ashfur's paws tingling with anticipation for moons. Blocking Starclan off from the living would slowly destroy them while he could freely slip into the domain of the dark forest. Mapleshade had promised him sanctuary in their grounds, as she had seniority over the other cats in the dark forest. It wasn't a perfect plan of course, but at least it gave him a way to keep an eye on Squirrelflight and Brambleclaw, at least until he found a way to break free of the dark forest as well to be closer to her. And yet, he had yet to find just the right cat to pin the blame on. The clans were due to notice something was wrong as things got worse. They'd likely figure out something had gone wrong in Starclan. What if they found the blockage in the pool?

At first, he thought about Willowpelt. The pale gray she cat had lured Whitestorm away from Brindleface before he was even born. But, no. No one would believe she was capable of such things with her huge, disgustingly sweet blue eyes. It was the same thing with Whitestorm. He'd be wonderful to take revenge on for breaking Brindleface’s heart. Yet, the clans only ever saw him as a hero. He had died in the Bloodclan invasion when Ashfur was still an apprentice, and as much as he hated to admit it, he did deserve the status for his deeds that day. As for the other Starclan cats, they just wouldn't cut it either for one reason or another.

An enraged yowl broke Ashfur out of his thoughts as Raggedstar, Bluestar, Crookedstar, and Tallstar each called for the immediate attention of Starclan. Ashfur was shocked to see the four cats that once led different clans come together. It wasn't that long ago that Raggedstar had divided Starclan to watch over their own clans, something Ashfur had actually agreed with. Several starry cats looked at the cats that once held great power, seeming just as surprised as Ashfur. Many more slid from their makeshift dens, including Brindleface and the kits. Elderberry and Tulipfang ran to join Ashfur’s side in the clearing. Elderberry shook with excitement, looking to Ashfur with big, blue eyes. “I hear rumors that there's gonna be a big battle! I hope I get to go!” The dark gray tom squealed with delight.

“Well, I sure don't. I wanna stay here and hide with momma!” Tulipfang complained, pushing his head against Ashfur's leg. “We're too small! We'll always be too small, Elderberry!” He cried.

Ashfur sighed, stroking the dappled tom reassuringly. He didn't need to be scared. Not forever. Perhaps what he had planned would be merciful to these young ones in the long run.

“Warriors of Starclan, gather quickly!” Raggedstar yowled powerfully, causing his voice to ring across the clearing for what Ashfur assumed to be the entirety of Starclan. “We have an emergency! The dark forest is invading the living world! They're going to overtake the clans if we do not help!” The messy dark brown tabby hissed, causing nervous murmurs from among the crowd. “Forget what I said about dividing Starclan! It did nothing to help our clanmates who are still living!”

“We know it's against our ways to interfere with the lives of the living,” Crookedstar continued with a sweep of his tail, “but you must all understand one thing. If the clans fall, so will Starclan! Our way of life, and after, will be no more. They'll turn the clans into something no better than rogues!”

Bluestar nodded to the pale tabby leader then stepped forward as well. “Jayfeather has shown us the light. We cannot win while divided.”

Ashfur snorted at the mention of Jayfeather. Of course that half clan medicine cat would be the one to bring Starclan together. He and his brother, Lionblaze, were special. Yeah, right! Like they really needed to listen to the product of a half clan medicine cat relationship! They knew nothing of the ways of the clans! Nothing that came from breaking the code could!

“We need cats of every clan to volunteer! All four of us already agreed to lead the charge!” Tallstar’s meow broke him once more from his thoughts. “We'll show the dark forest that they cannot divide us! They'll know that we are impenetrable!”

“I'll go!” Brindleface meowed, stepping forward with a sweep of her tail. “My daughter and grandkids need me!” She meowed with determination.

“So will I!” Ashfur meowed, lifting his head proudly. He'd hoped deep down he could save Squirrelflight and earn her favor, showing up Brambleclaw once and for all. And, as a bonus, he could go after Tigerstar himself and avenge Brindleface!”

“No! You can't go! We need you!” Tulipfang squealed in terror, hugging his tail tightly. “What will we do if mommy gets hurt or… or worse! Won't you watch us big brother, please?!”

“I…” Ashfur hesitated as one by one, more and more Starclan warriors stepped forward, as well as a few previous medicine cats. He gave a frustrated growl, seeing every starry kit having at least one guardian staying behind for their kits. Snowfur stayed for Mosskit, and a she cat he learned was named Willowbreeze sat with her kits, Minnowkit and Willowkit, eyeing Crookedstar worriedly, knowing her own mate could be lost if he wasn't careful. Even Raggedstar had his eyes on two small kits that were being watched by a flat faced ginger tabby she cat who he hadn't met. They all had familial obligations, yet they were still able to go!

“I think that's a wonderful idea! Please, dear.” Brindleface meowed, walking to his side. “I know you want to help. I'm sure you're worried for Ferncloud and her kits, but I promise, nothing terrible is going to happen to them while I'm around. And I'm not going anywhere! Besides,” her gaze shifted towards Elderberry and Tulipfang, “I wouldn't trust anyone else with these two if… if the worst were to pass.”

Ashfur gave a frustrated growl but nodded his eyes locking with his mother's warm green eyes. “I'll do it for them. I don't think I could trust anyone else either.” He flicked his tail towards Whitestorm, who had joined with the cats leaving to fight.

Brindleface gave a sympathetic smile, understanding, and licked his cheek. “Thank you dear, you're the sweetest.” She purred then leaned down to nuzzle Elderberry and Tulipfang. “You two behave for Ashfur, now. No wandering off to strange places.”

Elderberry wiggled his nose, puffing out his chest in response. “Us?! We never get lost!” Brindleface chuckled, ruffling the fur on his head and gave Tulipfang one last kiss to his ear before she went to join the battling patrol.

“Do you think they'll be okay?” Tulipfang asked, curling up tightly into Ashfur’s paws as they watched the patrol leave.”

Ashfur wrapped his tail around the young tom, flexing his claws. “I sure hope so. The last thing we need is for the ones we love to be taken from us.” He meowed, then silently added. “At least Brindleface… I don't care what happens to others.”

Chapter Text

Ashfur paced for what had felt like an eternity. The war was raging just out of sight, yet he couldn't go to the pool to watch without his siblings following and asking all kinds of uncomfortable questions. Most of the cats that had stayed behind were settled, washing or playing with their kits they'd been assigned, trying to help the little ones not to think about the battle. Ashfur pinned his ears as a tiny tortoiseshell kit gave an ear piercing, excited squeal, launching herself into her littermate, a gray tom kit. “Look at me! I'm Brokenstar, and I'm going to eat you!” The tortoiseshell laughed. Her brother laughed and growled, tugging her ears.

Thankfully, their loud, rough behavior reached a soft furred ginger and gray she cat who quickly ran to the two kits, carefully pulling them apart. Her amber eyes were full of grief from distant memories. “Marigoldkit, Mintkit, you know we don't speak his name here, especially after what he did to you two and your clanmates.”

Mintkit, stuck out his tongue, but looked at his paws when his eyes met with hers. “Sorry, Silverflame. I know we gotta be quiet… and I know Broke… he's really scary, but pretending to fight him helps us feel less scared.”

Marigoldkit nodded in agreement with her brother and Silverflame sighed, pulling them close with a sweep of her tail. “I know dears. I know… but I know Yellowfang and our other clanmates will make sure he can't hurt you or the others again.”

Ashfur turned away from the small group feeling Elderberry tug at his tail. “Why can't we play like that, Ashfur? It looks fun. Can't Tulipfang and I play with them, PLEEEEASE?!” He begged.

Ashfur shook his head, pulling the rambunctious young tom to his side with his paw. “Right now, any kind of loud game could attract any dark forest cat that tries to sneak into Starclan.” Of course, he knew from his interaction with Mapleshade that this notion was admittedly ridiculous, but he did like the quiet that had clung to the air since the patrol left.

“Right, right.” Elderberry sighed, slipping away from Ashfur to curl beside Tulipfang who was napping beside Snowkit, Mistlekit, and Speckletail, former clanmates Ashfur remembered fairly fondly.

Excitement tugged at Ashfur as he realized he was free, at least for a little bit. The former elderly tabby queen could watch four sleeping kits without much worry. Snowkit was pretty good at stealth games anyways, and would likely be fond of teaching the two brothers once they did finally awaken.

“We're back!” A loud voice echoed through the clearing and Ashfur spun around as a massive group of starry cats returned, looking proud and a bit shaken. Spottedleaf, a former Thunderclan medicine cat, seemed to be missing, but before Ashfur could ask what had happened to her, his eyes were drawn to a familiar fiery ginger pelt. Firestar had fallen! He'd had every opportunity to have been there for Squirrelflight, and yet he'd been forced to kit sit! And… that meant soon Brambleclaw would become leader! How was he supposed to deal with the flea bitten tom when he'd have nine lives?! And, on top of all of that, Firestar would make his plans much harder with his tendency to interfere with everything!

“Ashfur!” A familiar voice rang out from the crowd. Ashfur turned towards where the sound was coming from, angry threatening to explode from his entire body as he spotted his sister, Ferncloud, running to him from Brindleface’s side. She'd promised to protect his sister, yet she was here! She had died! “I'm so happy to see you! I missed you so much!” The speckled gray queen cried, shoving her face into his side. “I was so worried I'd never see you after we learned what happened and… oh brother, I'm sorry I never saw how hurt you were!”

Ashfur lay his head on her back, tears filling his dark blue eyes as he shot a glare to Brindleface. “You promised…” He mouthed. Brindleface looked at her paws a moment then looked to Ashfur. “I did my best, but she insisted I take care of the kits first. By the time Brokenstar got to her… I just wasn't fast enough.”

“It's not your fault. I died the way I always imagined, making sure the clan's youngest and most vulnerable were safe. Thank you, Brindleface.” Ferncloud purred as she pulled away from Ashfur. “Really, I'm okay with it.” She blinked at him warmly then flicked her ears as eager yowls rung through the air. A small, amber eyed brown tom raced towards Ferncloud, carrying two brown tabby she kits.

“Ferncloud!” Shrewpaw yowled, throwing himself against the dappled queen while Hollykit and Larchkit clung to him with excited squeals.

Ashfur sighed, watching the happy reunion his sister received with her fallen kits, a hint of jealousy overtaking him. He would talk to Brindleface about her broken promise later. Right now, he just wanted to slip away before he accidentally ruined his littermate's joy. Ashfur flicked his tail, padding towards his favorite spot by the pool to gaze over the clans.

As he observed his former clanmates, his pelt spiked as he overheard Brambleclaw apologize to Squirrelflight and offer her a place beside him as his deputy. The beautiful dark ginger she cat accepted, and he gave a hiss, striking the water as the two embraced, clearly making up for everything. “That horrible fox heart abandoned you, avoided you, and you still picked HIM?! You could have had me!” He hissed.

He paused hearing approaching paw steps and turned to see his former leader now staring at him, a hint of grief in his emerald green gaze. “Ashfur…” Firestar meowed, awkwardly clearing his throat as his voice squeaked. “We… Starclan asks that you come with me. Hollyleaf has passed on and… since she murdered you they… need your thoughts on if she should be allowed in Starclan.”

Ashfur perked his ears at the news, his claws digging into the soft ground below him. Of course she didn't deserve to stay in Starclan! She was the half clan daughter of a medicine cat and a murderer! HIS murderer! The idea of swiping his claws through her soft black pelt and tearing out her throat in revenge seemed sweet. Why give her a trial when that's what she deserved?

Then again… a slight smile formed on Ashfur’s maw as he got to his paws. Killing her again or chasing her to the dark forest would be too easy, too quick. Why, she was just crazy and obsessed enough to be his scapegoat. “I'll be more than happy to testify, Firestar. But, honestly, I don't think the trial will be necessary. I forgave her moons ago. And really, if I can forgive her for murdering me, I think it's only fair that she stays.”

Firestar looked surprised but nodded, dipping his head respectfully to the dappled warrior. “I'm glad to hear that, and I think the others will agree. Thank you, Ashfur. You've matured a lot since you came to Starclan.” With that, the fiery ginger tom turned to leave and Ashfur turned his gaze back to the pool and the happy new leader and deputy.

"Alright, I found my scapegoat. You all won't be happy much longer, and I'll make sure everyone thinks it's because of your precious adopted daughter! And don't worry, I'll find a way to deal with you two even more personally as well." He turned to follow after Firestar, flicking a nearby loose branch into the pool with his tail. “Ooops!” He mewed sarcastically, trying not to laugh as it sank out of sight.

Chapter Text

Ashfur padded along to the clearing where he had first entered Starclan. His eyes narrowed into small slits as he spotted a familiar black pelt, cautiously dodging away from the stares and whispers of the starry cats. “I'm here. Firestar said you wished for me to come to Hollyleaf’s trial?” He meowed calmly.

Hollyleaf gasped at the sight of Ashfur, her black pelt spiking in defiance. “What is HE doing here?!” She yowled, her green eyes blazing with pure hatred.

Bluestar blinked calmly at the young warrior, walking to her side. “He had a trial, much like you were going to. But in the end, it was decided he did more good than evil. Everyone makes mistakes, Hollyleaf. But here in Starclan, you can have a fresh start. That is, if what Firestar said is true.” She turned from the frustrated black she cat to Ashfur. “You really wish to let her murder of you go?”

Ashfur flexed his claws, holding back the urge to lunge at Hollyleaf here and now. No, her staying would work in his favor. “Of course. Like you said, everyone deserves a second chance. You gave me one and I changed. Besides, I heard what she said when she killed me. She thought she was doing it for the greater good and for her family. How could Starclan punish someone that worked harder than most to protect the warrior code? Her having a trial is completely unfair.” He purred, desperately trying not to gag on his own words.

Hollyleaf froze, staring at the dappled tom with genuine surprise, her pelt slowly flattening as she let down her guard slightly. “You… you've forgiven me? Well… I guess in the end, I wasn't much better for exposing the truth and threatening Leafpool…” She froze, a hint of regret entering her eyes as she thought about her mother. “I was so terrible to her then… and if I can be forgiven, then I'll forgive you…”

Ashfur purred and joined her side. “Come then. Let me show you around. Let's start over. I think we had more in common than we realized, hurting others in our pain and coming to regret it.” He turned his attention to Bluestar with a dip of his head. “That is if Hollyleaf wishes, and you'll allow it.”

“We wanna go too!” Elderberry and Tulipfang meowed, running to Ashfur, clinging to be tail, making the dappled warrior chuckle and lick their heads.

Bluestar nodded, her blue eyes shining with amusement. “You don't need to ask me permission, Ashfur. We're all equal here. I haven't been a leader in several seasons. And I don't think it would be terrible to take them along too. They'll do all with two seasoned warriors to keep half an eye on them.”

“I don't mind. I mean… if that's what it means to be in Starclan then, yes, I'll go with you Ashfur.” Hollyleaf meowed, her attention drawn to the two kits. “I'll be honest, I never saw you as the type to draw kits in like that. It's actually really nice to see. You really have changed. And if they can come, I'd be happy to learn all about them.”

Ashfur nodded, feeling pride in his younger brothers. As unintentional as it was, it was nice that their admiration led to Hollyleaf being willing to trust him. “Of course they can come. It wouldn't feel right to leave these two out! Hollyleaf, these are my littermates, Elderberry and Tulipfang. They chose their names, and…” his voice dropped to a bare whisper so only she could hear, “no one has the heart to tell them they never earned their names. Being a kit or paw forever just doesn't seem right.” He frowned, seeing Hollyleaf look at the two young kit's with a mix of pity and understanding.

“I know I wouldn't wish to stay a kit forever if I'd been in their fur. I might have picked Hollyflight in honor of Squirrelflight… Oh Squirrelflight… I didn't get to tell her goodbye. I only had a chance to make up with Leafpool before… I hope she'll be okay.”

Ashfur nodded, for once agreeing with Hollyleaf. “Your adopted mother was… is a special cat. I think I might just know what to show you first to cheer you up.”

Curiously, Hollyleaf followed Ashfur into the starry forest as the kits bounced around her, squeaking with delight as they asked about being a warrior. The black she cat gave an embarrassed lick of her chest as regret dulled her leafy green eyes once more for a moment. “As much as I tried, I wouldn't say I lived the best life of a warrior, little ones… at least, not until I gave it for Ivypool. I'd be a terrible example.”

Elderberry gasped, his eyes eyes full of admiration. “You gave your life for your clanmate?! That's so cool! Oh! Maybe I should call myself Elderleaf!” He declared proudly.

Hollyleaf laughed, playfully nudging him with her paw. “You could, but I think you should keep Elderberry. I think it fits you better. No need to name yourself after others.”

Elderberry nodded and bound ahead with a eager yowl. “Strong AND humble! I love it!”

Hollyleaf gave an amused shake of her head and Ashfur found barely keep from rolling his eyes. Soon, they reached the pool connecting to the living and he flicked his tail for Hollyleaf to have a look.

Hollyleaf tipped her head, staring into the pool, frowning as nothing but her own reflection shown within. “Just wait for a moment.” Ashfur instructed gently. Hollyleaf nodded and stared a bit longer until a reflection of Squirrelflight and Bramblestar curled in the leader’s den appeared. Ashfur looked away, almost vomiting at the sight while the black warrior started to tear up, dabbing her paw softly into the starry water.

“Squirrelflight… Bramblestar… I'm sorry. I wish I could have properly said goodbye to you too.” She whispered as the vision shifted to Leafpool and Jayfeather resting in their den, and one more time to Lionblaze and Cinderheart, who were sharing a nest. “I'm glad they're together and happy now… Cinderheart was my best friend for so long... and I know Lionblaze will take good care of her." She murmured then looked at Ashfur, wiping her eyes. “Thank you. I'll definitely return to this place when I'm missing them, but for now I think we should return to the others. I'm exhausted and…” She turned her attention to Elderberry and Tulipfang who were curled in a pile, snoring softly, “I know they're ready.” She mewed with a soft, amused snort.

Ashfur nodded, his gaze remaining on the pool for a bit longer. His claws had subconsciously dug further into the ground with each new vision showing each cat content with their lives. They didn't deserve it. They all deserved to burn. He should have let the fire consume them all those moons ago, Squirrelflight with them! No… maybe not her. They didn't deserve to be with his perfect queen. “One day, BrambleSTAR, you're going to regret stealing her away. You all will!” He thought bitterly as he turned to grab the kits and follow Hollyleaf. Stopping Starclan from communicating wasn't enough anymore. Seeing Hollyleaf's half clan kin so content lit a new ambition on his belly. It wasn't just Squirrelflight he wanted anymore. He wanted the entire forest to suffer and to make her watch what her choices and Leafpool's caused. They'd see how fragile the code they chose to follow was. Letting Leafpool and her kits stay was just one mistake that needed to be punished if they truly cared about their code. Now, the only question was how. Starclan's destruction wouldn't be enough to make his point.

As they entered the clearing, excited mews came from several former cats of Thunderclan. Ashfur walked over to see what the commotion was about, figuring another casualty from the battle with the dark forest had arrived. To his shock, however, the cats everyone was so eager to see was Cinderpelt. Ashfur tilted his head aside as he sat next to Bluestar, setting his sleeping siblings at his paws. “I thought Cinderpelt died in that badger attack several seasons back. Why all the excitement?” He yawned.

Bluestar looked amused, shaking her head. “I forget not everyone was here at the time. But think about it, in all of your time here, did you ever see her among the rest of Starclan?”

Ashfur shrugged, still not quite understanding. “Starclan is huge. I doubt I've seen every cat that lives here. I never really thought about it.”

Cinderpelt turned to Ashfur with an amused gleam in her dark blue eyes. “Well, I wasn't here. Remember Cinderheart?”

Ashfur nodded, tipping his head to the other side. “Sure. She and her littermates were born just after you and Sootfur died. I spent several seasons as her clanmate. I knew everything about her. So what?”

“Not everything.” Yellowfang rasped as she slid through the crowd. The dark gray she cat touched muzzles with her former apprentice with a rusty purr. “Cinderpelt is a hero. Not only did she defend Sorreltail and her kits from the badger, but she saved Cinderheart a second time. Poor thing was born very weak and nearly died. Because Cinderpelt was right there, we all quickly agreed to let her live with Cinderheart until the day came that she was strong enough to survive without her. Besides, it gave Cinderpelt a chance to be a warrior, something she lost before.”

Ashfur shuddered a moment as he realized what Yellowfang had been saying. “Cinderpelt… possessed Cinderkit? I didn't know that was even possible!”

Cinderpelt shook her head. “Normally, it's not. A spirit must be lingering just between life and death, or perhaps have a naturally strong connection to the spirit realm. We, that is, Starclan doesn't do it very often. It's too delicate. But… I couldn't let Sorreltail suffer the loss of her kit. Losing Sootfur was hard enough.”

Ashfur nodded, flicking his tail as new ideas flooded through his mind. If Bramblestar were to lose a life, maybe he could kick the fox hearted tom for good and remain close to his Squirrelflight. Then, Thunderclan would be forced to listen to him for once. Maybe even the entire forest! But, it wouldn't be easy and would take time. And what would keep Bramblestar from fighting and returning to his body? Perhaps he could mull over it with Mapleshade later.

Chapter Text

“So, you finally found someone to take the wrath if the clans decide to look into Starclan's silence?” Mapleshade's voice echoed as her cold amber gaze stared through the mists towards Ashfur. “That's great, though do tell me, just how do you plan on making sure she takes the fall for you?”
Ashfur flexed his claws, sitting beside the border as he stared back at the dark she cat. “Simple. Hollyleaf always had a disgusting habit of worshipping everything related to the warrior code. I was originally planning on using that obsession and Starclan's hypocritical nature. Once things start to go chaotic, I was going to point to her and how I had given her mercy but it was clear she still had it out for me after learning Starclan let me join. I…”
Mapleshade lifted a paw to silence him, shaking her head. “That's really it? You're mouse brained if you think Starclan's counsel could be that easily duped. Please tell me you have a backup plan.”
Ashfur growled, thrusting his muzzle against hers, every hair on his pelt spiking as he held back the urge to rip out her tongue for her insult. “If you'd actually LISTEN, I wasn't done! I decided punishing them by destroying Starclan isn't enough. Seeing how happy everyone is, pretending to care about their flea bitten code until it's convenient to forget about it, I want to directly punish them.”
Mapleshade shoved his muzzle away, staring into his dark eyes unamused. “The dark forest couldn't win despite seasons of practice with several generations of an army to grow us, and I highly doubt you'll be able to get a large following in Starclan. What makes you think you can directly punish them?”
Ashfur snorted, rolling his eyes. She really could not learn to just listen, could she? “I learned something interesting after making my fake peace with Hollyleaf. Starclan cats are capable of possession. Now, if I can just get into the right cat, just as they're between life and death… And if that cat were preferably a leader, say Bramblestar…” He glanced at Mapleshade with a nod. NOW she could speak, at least if she had the brains to figure out where he was going. Surely even a kit could at this point.
Mapleshade whipped her tail, a thoughtful look spreading over her face. “Yes, I suppose that could be a start. Taking over a leader, the clan would have to listen to your word. And really, who would suspect Bramblestar isn't himself? He has so few cats he's closer to that are alive. Squirrelflight? You're so sickeningly obsessed with her, I'm sure you could keep her pacified by pretending to be her mate. And I doubt his sisters will notice when they're busy in other clans. However, there's one thing…”
Ashfur ground his fangs, doing everything in his power to not scream. Obsessed? He wasn't obsessed. He was in love! How dare she make such an accusation! “Squirrelflight should be so lucky to have me take her back to my side after everything she put me through!” He meowed, finding himself tearing up. “But… I'm merciful to her! She'll see! She'll love ME when I'm done! I'll become so powerful and make the clans squirm, and when the time is right, I'll let her know it's me! I'm the one in control! She'll have to love me when she sees…”
Mapleshade gave an exasperated growl, shoving her paw against his muzzle. “Now YOU listen for once skunk breath! You don't like when I interrupt, and I don't like it either. I've ripped out many cat’s eyes for less! I was GOING to say that it's a very hard line to cross. You don't think we haven't thought about possession before?! Please! I tried it many seasons back to get at Appledusk's kits through Darkstar! I thought she'd be a prime target as her final life ended! But she was gone too quickly! I only had a corpse! My spirit only smacked against her body! The moment of opportunity is almost too small for any cat to judge!”
Ashfur frowned, settling down as he thought about her words. “Well, maybe I'll just have to practice my timing.” He meowed, staring at his claws that glistened brightly in the light of the stars. “Find some random rogue or kittypet to create little… accidents for. Then, once I have that figured out, I'll do the same to Bramblestar.”
Mapleshade snorted, though her amber eyes betrayed a hint of amusement underneath. “You easily think it's that easy? Well, I can't say you're not persistent. I'll give you that much. But, do you really think Starclan's not going to notice you murdering a bunch of random cats?”
Ashfur shrugged, calmly licking his paw. “What's there to worry about? I'll be cutting off their connection to the living cats anyways. Besides, Starclan hardly seems to notice anything these days, or at least they don't seem to care unless it involves you dark forest dwellers. And, like I said, it's rogues and kittypets. No one cares about them except for Firestar, and really, I'm sure he'll be too busy watching over his precious clanmates. He narrowed his eyes as he pictured his claws tearing into the innocent cats. It wasn't a perfect plan, sure. He didn't live the idea of killing those that hadn't harmed him in any way, but it was the best way to learn and get back at the clans. Their sacrifices would be worth it.
Mapleshade shrugged, turning to head back into the dark forest, only her white tail visible as she leapt into the twisted trees. “Do as you will, Ashfur. I see your goals are growing past what we had planned initially, and as long as our plans are still a part of it, I really don't care.”
Ashfur snorted and turned away, heading for the pool. “Oh, that'll be done alright, in my time. Mother has betrayed my trust and I must spare my siblings from this terrible place. I haven't forgotten that. Starclan's going to pay just as much as the clans. Have a little faith in me, Mapleshade.”

Chapter Text

“Foxdung!” Ashfur hissed as he slammed into the lifeless corpse of a fluffy brown and cream tabby loner. He had managed to startle the superstitious young she cat after her reckless so-called friends dared her to go into the woods with stories of hauntings, likely caused by the battle of the dark forest and Starclan. The loner tried to run back to her home, but Ashfur was too swift for the she cat, leaping and shredding into her throat with extreme accuracy. The pathetic young cat didn't even attempt to fight, and the spirit and life soon drained from her green eyes, faster than the blood drained from her gaping neck.
“I almost feel sorry for the mouse heart.” Ashfur murmured as the young cat's spirit ran to her den, wailing for her friends with no reaction from them. “I know what it's like to be ignored. But still, I don't have time to reflect on how alike we are or her sacrifice.”
Ashfur had spent several moons, finding multiple cats, old and young. Some had died by his paws, and some, he was lucky enough to come across as their spirits were leaving the mortal plane. By now, Squirrelflight had given birth to four kits, though two of them had made their way toStarclan, only disgusting him further. He refused to get too close to the kin of Bramblestar, and, to his dismay, Tulipfang and Elderberry seemed to really like them. Once again, Bramblestar was taking away those that loved him, this time through his own kits, as if to tease him further.

Ashfur lifted his gaze with a dissatisfied grunt, realizing the sun was about to disappear beyond the horizon, and Starclan would soon have its prying eyes on the forest once more. Ashfur grunted as a cold breeze rippled his pelt, and yellow and red leaves danced past his sparkling paws. Ashfur had forgotten how cold leaf fall could be, and how quickly the sun disappeared during this gloomy season. He'd run out of time today, sooner than he'd hoped. With a sigh, Ashfur wiped his bloody paws in the grass, beside the torn up she cat, then padded back to the moonpool.

Ashfur padded through the tunnel to the moonpool, his pelt fluffed as his paws trod upon the dents left by ancient paws. It felt as though eyes from those long forgotten were on him, but he shook it off quickly. He had nothing to be ashamed of. He wasn't in the wrong. It was everyone else that caused him to become the way he was now. He soon relaxed as he saw the sparkling, familiar waters of the moonpool as light filtered through the top of the cave once more. Ashfur stared at his reflection with a sigh, his heart aching as he thought about going back to Starclan and pretending once more to get along with everyone. Ashfur hissed as he closed his eyes and dove into the waters, transporting him back to Starclan.

As he opened his eyes, Hollyleaf, Firestar, his mate, Sandstorm, and a few other cats, mostly Shadowclan cats Ashfur didn't care to get to know were rushing past. Ashfur dove into a nearby bush, frightened that they'd spy him returning from the pool and have several questions, but it seemed as though no one was interested in him. Giving a relieved sigh, Ashfur quickly lapped at his fur to dry himself then trotted after Sandstorm, putting on a sickly sweet smile that made his belly churn. “What's going on here? ”

The pale she cat froze and stared at Ashfur confused. “Oh! Didn't you hear?! Dovewing has gone off to have her kits at the twolegplace and Tigerheart has gone after her. We're making sure he gets to her and their kits safely and soon. Shadowclan may need Tigerheart now, more than ever.

“Oh, I see.” Ashfur barely held back a growl at the mention of Tigerheart and his worthless half clan kits. Why would Starclan waste their energy protecting such a vial family? All of them deserved to die for their betrayal! Shadowclan had Rowanclaw. They didn't need a disloyal deputy, especially one that was Tigerstar's kin. Rowanclaw could easily pick someone else that wasn't disloyal, surely. Then again, Tigerheart was his son. He was likely blind to the dark tabby’s disgusting choices. Well, if these Starclan cats were going to go along to keep an eye on their kin, perhaps he should come along in secret to deliver the justice they were too mouse hearted to bring. Besides, Hollyleaf was going with them despite her old insistence of keeping the code sacred. If anything went wrong for the living cats, all the blame could easily fall on her, as long as he kept hidden.

—---------------------------------------------------------
Ashfur kept low as the starry warriors wandered outside Starclan's boundaries to skies no cat must have seen before. The stars around everything were replaced with soft mists which made Ashfur's pelt shimmer from their gentle touch. These mists were perfect for camouflaging his pale dappled gray coat, while also disguising his scent. Ashfur allowed himself to creep ever so slightly closer, just catching the voices of the small patrol.

“I hear they're called Lightkit, Pouncekit, And Shadowkit! What perfectly lovely names!” Purred a bright eyed ginger tabby she cat with a muzzle that looked like a monster had smashed it in.

Her companion, a pale brown tabby she cat with a white underbelly and cold amber eyes snorted. “I don't care what they're named, Brightflower. Back in our days, breaking the code meant something. No one would go out of their way to find half clan families, especially not Starclan.”

Ashfur could hardly hold back a purr of amusement at the she cat's mew, appreciating how much swnse a Starclan cat was speaking for once.

“Oh Lizardstripe, lighten up. You didn't have to come along, you know.” Brightflower sighed, shaking her head to her former clanmate. “I know you hate kits and cats that aren't pure Shadowclan, so why did you even volunteer for this mission? No one wants to listen to your complaining.”

Lizardstripe snorted, giving an indignant flick of her whiskers as she stared ahead at the shocked, questioning gazes of the former Shadowclan cats. “I hate kits, and I hate half clan freaks… they're too much like that monstrous kit I was forced to raise, Brokenstar. But, I know as well as you that Rowanclaw's time is short and our clan will fall apart without Tigerheart. If guiding his disgusting family back means saving Shadowclan, I'm all for it. I'll do what I can to guide his paws.”

Brightflower nodded with a small smile, laying her tail on the grumpy she cat. “You always were brave and loyal, despite your personal feelings. Thank you, Lizardstripe.”

“Yeah yeah. Whatever. Let's just get this over with so I can get back with Mudclaw.” Lizardstripe grumbled, pulling ahead and out of Brightflower's fluffy tail, joining the others, and giving an annoyed huff as they turned away with awkward murmurs.

Ashfur quickened his pace as the fog grew heavier, nearly on their tails until Firestar screeched for the patrol to stop. Lizardstripe growled, lashing her tail in response. “I don't listen to kittypets. You barely belong on this patrol in the first place. We only allowed you with us because your own kin ruined our deputy. Why should Shadowclan stop for your orders?!”

Firestar stared at the pale tabby with his sickeningly calm green gaze. “I don't expect you to listen to me more than your own former clanmates. Starclan warriors are equal, after all. However,” He paused and dipped his paw into a small stream, hidden within the fog, “I do believe your clanmates will appreciate that I found a water source, even if by accident.” He paused, shaking his paw that sent small droplets flying. “It's likely that we're near a source that will allow us to find and guide the family we're after.”

Lizardstripe carefully dabbed her paw in the liquid and gave a curt nod, keeping her mouth tightly closed as she turned to follow the stream, her clanmates following close behind. Brightflower dipped her head to Firestar as she turned to join the others. “Thank you, Firestar. Please forgive my friend. She means well.”

Firestar smiled, leaning his head against Sandstorm's soft shoulder. “Trust me, he's dealt with much worse.” Sandstorm purred, her pale green eyes sparked with old memories as she playfully shoved the large tom off of her. “ There's no harm done.”

With that, the couple and Hollyleaf, who'd been watching her grandfather with pride, followed the river after the others. Ashfur sighed, glad that this part of the journey was nearly over. Soon, he'd be able to deliver his own justice, and, with the revelation of Lizardstripe's distaste of the kits, that's where he'd start first. She might even get the blame or thank her hidden savior, and either way was fine with him.

Chapter Text

The patrol followed the stream for what felt like moons to Ashfur. He gave an impatient grumble as he shook his paws with every new step. He had always thought pain was supposed to disappear in the afterlife. Perhaps it was his mind messing with him, but either way, it was a relief when the patrol stopped as Lizardstripe's ears flicked with interest. “The water is growing more intense. I think we're nearing a waterfall.” She meowed.
Brightflower turned her attention towards the direction her companion was listening towards. “I hear it. Perhaps that's the source of the stream we're looking for.”
Firestar nodded, turning to the patrol. “A few of us should take a look ahead. I don't want anyone exhausting themselves further if it's not necessary. We know nothing of these grounds. Something could still pose a danger to us.”
Lizardstripe grumbled, rolling her eyes. “Of course. I find the clue and Firestar has to swoop in to the lead again.”
Hollyleaf narrowed her eyes back to the she cat. “He's trying to help us all mousebrain. There's no need to speak of him like that.”
Lizardstripe’s tabby pelt bristled as Sandstorm and Brightflower threw themselves between them. “Enough! We're no longer rivals here!” Sandstorm hissed. “These may be new skies, but that doesn't mean you have to start acting like rogues.”
“And you Thunderclan cats don't need to take charge at every turn.” Lizardstripe snorted, flicking her tail dismissively as she backed away.
Brightflower sighed as she watched her companion leave then turned her attention back to Firestar. “Well, I'll be happy to go.” She meowed calmly.
Firestar nodded gratefully as a pale ginger tabby tom with darker legs came forward from the group of Shadowclan cats. “I'll go too. I'm not letting my mate wander unknown skies alone.”
Firestar seemed happy with the tom's response though Brightflower gave a gentle snort and a light cuff on the ear. “Brackenfoot!” She growled, but the growl quickly turned to laughter. “I don't need your protection, you know. I'm very capable like any other warrior.”
Hollyleaf grunted and rolled her eyes while Firestar and Sandstorm eyed each other warmly. The black she cat shook her pelt and stepped forward. “I'll also go. Anything to distract myself from… that.”
Ashfur flexed his claws and his belly burned as the two she cats that volunteered to journey joined each other's sides. Seeing the two couples flaunting themselves in front of him was an incredible insult and he waved to scream to the skies above, whatever they may be behind the heavy clouds, about how unfair they were being to him.
Firestar cleared his throat seeing how eager Hollyleaf was to leave. Taking a deep breath, he gave a small, comforting lick to his grandkit’s ear, which she slightly flinched away from. “Be careful while you're out there. We haven't run into any strangers yet, but that doesn't mean they can't surprise us. If you…”
Hollyleaf quickly cut him off with a slight growl, though her eyes betrayed a hint of playfulness. “If we run into strangers, come back immediately. Don't stray too far from the waters. Come back in a decent amount of time with our findings. I'm not a kit anymore, Firestar, and Brightflower was a capable warrior back in the day.”
“I know. But still… I'd hate to lose you again. The day you disappeared into those tunnels will always haunt me.” Firestar meowed softly as he backed away. “Now go ahead you two. We'll be right here.”
Hollyleaf dipped her head respectfully to the fiery tom then turned to Brightflower. The ginger she cat nodded without a word, and the two she cats trotted after the stream. Ashfur quickly slipped after the she cat's, keeping his eyes on Brightflower's pelt that stood out, even from a distance in these mists.
For what seemed like forever, Ashfur and the two warriors followed the stream as instructed. Not a word was spoken between them, and Ashfur felt like he was going to go crazy in the silence. Soon, however, a fiery ginger pelt bound towards the she cats like lightning. At first, Ashfur thought that Firestar had decided to follow Hollyleaf after all, but a strong scent of twolegplace carried to his nose, knocking Ashfur to his flank. Even up here, kittypet stench burned!
Brightflower's ears perked and her nose raced as well, obviously catching the scent. Hollyleaf narrowed her eyes and unsheathed her claws, turning to face Brightflower’s blind spots. “I know Firestar said to return, but there's only one.” Hollyleaf growled.
Brightflower nodded in agreement. “I think we can handle this one if we need to.” She grunted as a round ginger head popped up from behind the bushes on the other side of the stream.
“Hiya! You guys sure scared off my companions! What are Starclan cats doing so far from your territory?” He asked, a hint of kit-like curiosity in his tone despite looking to be the age of a senior warrior.
Hollyleaf gave a confused blink as she stared at the tom up and down. He carefully slid from the bushes, his body looking almost like a mirror image of Firestar, but much more plump. “We… are looking for something… or rather a way to find someone.” Hollyleaf meowed hesitantly while Brightflower kept a narrow watch on the tom.
The tom's green eyes lit up and he purred, wrapping his tail neatly over his paws. “Oh! You must be looking for your clanmates, right?! Tallstar did tell me I'd have some clan cats venturing into our skies! And,” He eyed the she cat's curiously, “he mentioned I might run into some kin! And guessing from your ginger tabby fur and her green eyes that match mine…”
Brightflower hissed, making the tom flinch. “I have no kittypet kin, thank you. I'm a full blooded Shadowclan warrior!”
Hollyleaf shifted her paws awkwardly. “Well, Firestar, my grandfather, was born a kittypet and you do look much like him. What's your name? Maybe we can ask Firestar about you? Or… Tallstar when we run into him at home. I didn't know Tallstar had a kittypet friend.”
The tom shook his head, a hint of grief in his eyes. “My name is Jake. Firestar… from what Tallstar tells me, that's my son. Still, he'd never know me. Back in my day, I was a carefree wanderer. I'd fall in love but then find myself drawn elsewhere. Meeting Tallstar was the last of my adventures before I passed. He gave me everything I wanted in life but taught me my housefolk where the ones I truly belonged with in life. I heard he was very close to my son and… I'm glad.”
Ashfur gagged at the tom's description of everything and it seemed Brightflower shared his disgust with the tom. How could such a respected leader have had any kind of friendly relationship with a kittypet?! “Yeah yeah, that's really sad, Jake. Look, we don't have time to tell life stories. You claim to be close to Tallstar, which makes you a friend of the clans. Will you take us to the waterfall or, wherever you kittypets and loners contact the living?”
Jake didn't seem shaken by the she cat's tone as he hopped to his paws. “Of course. I'd be more than happy to show you our sacred grounds. Most of the cats around here don't touch it, so you should be left alone from this point on. And even if they did hang out, I'm sure most of them would be hiding from so many strangers.” His eyes lit with amusement, and Ashfur couldn't help but feel disgust for the cowardly cats. Starclan would fight to drive out outsiders the moment their paws entered their skies, not hide like mice.
“Thank you Jake. You've made our journey much faster. Firestar will be pleased to know you helped us.” Hollyleaf meowed to the plump tabby. “Perhaps, you'd like to come back with us and catch up with Firestar?” She suggested.
Jake hesitated a moment then shook his head. “My son never knew me and that's okay. I don't think a patrol full of cats like your friend here would be too pleased to have me along.”
Hollyleaf looked to Brightflower, trying to get her to back down, but the ginger she cat shook her head. “Even if I was okay with it, you know Lizardstripe will never agree, nor would most of Shadowclan's part of the patrol. For his own safety and our sanity, it's best to follow him now and report to the others after.”
Hollyleaf frowned but then nodded to Jake. “Alright, we'll go with you. Thank you, Jake. Perhaps one day Firestar will agree to make a journey here, maybe with Tallstar, and you two can finally meet.
The friendly tom nodded and hopped to his paws. “I'd like that! In the meantime, let's get going! It's not all that far now!”

Chapter Text

The patrol made their way swiftly to the falls Jake had shown the she cats not too long before. Just as Jake had said, no cats had made their way to intrude upon the group's progress, though Ashfur was certain he occasionally saw a wide eyed kittypet or loner watching from the mists a couple of times. The group of Shadowclan cats in the patrol chose Flametail to speak. The blue eyed, flame colored tom lapped at the water just where the rapid water at the bottom of the falls was calming, closing his eyes in the hope of reaching Tigerheart and his mate. Firestar, Sandstorm, and Hollyleaf agreed to stand guard in case any kittypets decided to try and interrupt the former medicine cat.

Ashfur snorted, boredom slowly creeping through his pelt as he waited for news from the former medicine cat. Surely, this trip was a waste of time. Why would anyone besides the clans need or even want to communicate with their dead? The clans at least came to their ancestors for guidance and had moral codes, even if they were hypocritical and didn't always follow it. But outsiders were bound by nothing. They only cared for themselves. And even if they weren't selfish, only medicine cats and leaders could communicate with the dead. They had none. What would they need this place for unless it was an ordinary waterfall and river? Ashfur wanted to yowl at the cats that they were Mouse brained for waiting. It felt like moons. However, just as he was about to give in to his urges and give himself away, Flametail bounced to his paws, turning eagerly towards his former clanmates.

“I couldn't establish a link with Shadowkit, despite the Shadowstar saying he'll have a major impact on all of the clans as a medicine cat one day. Perhaps he's not quite ready for our guidance. However, I reached a cat named Spire. He was receptive to my instructions. He'll lead Tigerheart home and not a moment too soon.” Concern shown in his eyes for a moment, as if hiding something he didn't wish to burden the others with.

Ashfur gave a twitch of his ears. Outsiders?! They were open to communication? Never! This was a fluke! It had to be! What kind of fox dung filled lie had Flametail thought he was spewing? Surely no one would be mouse brained enough to believe such nonsense? And Shadowkit, that half clan kin of Tigerstar, blessed by Starclan to one day impact every clan?! Oh no! Not on his watch! No kin of that fox heart deserved anything but pure suffering. He wasn't going to let that happen! Perhaps, if he were the one to reach out to the kit and mold him to his will, it would be tolerable. But how? Surely Starclan would keep a heavy watch while he was connected to them. Was it possible to break the connection, to make the kit hear and trust Ashfur as Starclan's voice? Using him to destroy the lives of the living clan cats would be the perfect way to bring justice after all.

Firestar padded to the flame colored medicine cat with a kind, knowledgeable warmth in his eyes. “You did the best you could. At least you managed to find a means to communicate with our lost kin. Don't be so hard on yourself. I'm sure Shadowkit will be open to reaching us in no time once he's back in the clan territories where he and the rest of them belong.”

The former leader then turned his attention towards the gathered cats who looked a mixture of both concerned and yet somehow relieved. “In the meantime, I suggest we take turns resting. We may be here for a while, until Dovewing and Tigerheart's return, but we need someone to always be alert in case any overly curious kittypet or rogues show their whiskers.”

Ashfur gave an annoyed grumble under his breath. Of course Firestar would believe Flametail. And, with someone keeping watch at all times, it would be hard to try and reach out to Shadowkit, not that it would be easy in these foreign waters anyways, though certainly much easier than Flametail supposedly reaching that Spire cat. No, he didn't have time to wait, he'd find a way to reach the kit and maybe arrange for a little… accident along the way to get that wanna be prophet of a rogue out of the way as well.

Ashfur snapped back to watching the patrol as the Shadowclan warriors grumbled, settling down away from the Thunderclan cats, clearly unhappy with Firestar once again ordering them around, but unable to find any fault in his logic either. “Typical Firestar. Always finds a way to get others to listen.” He murmured while Hollyleaf walked a few fox lengths away, possibly taking the first watch of the evening.

Ashfur settled down once more where he was, in no mood to have to explain himself to that murderous she cat if she caught his scent and, of all of the cats here, she'd be the most likely to do so. No, he'd wait until one of the Shadowclan cats took watch, then, as much as he hated the idea, he'd sneak his way to the water and dive in when they weren't looking. With any luck, the heavy mists of this place coated his pelt enough that it would disguise his scent from those that didn't know him as he got closer.

After what felt like forever, Lizardstripe got to her paws and made her way to Hollyleaf, whose green gaze and alert ears hadn't faltered for even a moment. The tabby she cat’s eyes were narrow as she poked the black she cat's shoulder with a single claw, causing Hollyleaf to spin with a hiss, only to relax when she saw it was her companion that had snuck up from behind as she was concentrating towards the woods. Lizardstripe looked unamused and just flicked her tail in response. “You're relieved. You must be tired if you missed my approach. Go and rest with your kin. Nothing will escape my watch!”

As the black she cat walked away, hardly acknowledging the Shadowclan warrior and laying by Sandstorm's side, Ashfur stood once more, ready to make his move as soon as convenient. To his surprise, it didn't take long as the tabby she cat's eyes drooped, clearly bored by the idea of watching for kittypets. She soon began to wash her paws instead, giving Ashfur plenty of time to sneak to the river. Still, as he made his way, closer and closer, he hid behind the available foliage. From time to time Lizardstripe looked up from her grooming to look around, but it never lasted more than a few moments.

Soon, Ashfur found himself face to face with the river, his own handsome face smirking back at him but then frowning. He made it, but now came the hard part. He had to get soaked. Taking a moment to hype himself up, he told himself this was in no way worse than the several times he'd gone through the moonpool. He took a deep breath then quickly plunged his way in, trying not to gag as the unfamiliar waters rushed into his nose and ears.

For several heartbeats, Ashfur fought against the currents, as if the waters were trying to keep him from his destination. But Ashfur kept pushing as the waters swirled around him and, just as he thought he would be trapped forever in the waters, a light shone just below him. Quickly, Ashfur reached out to the light and found himself beside a long haired pale gray queen curled around three kits. Ashfur wrinkled his nose as twoleg place stink washed off of the kits and into his nose. These kits were more rogue than clan. How could Starclan bless one of these kits with a future that would affect all of the clans? Ashfur gazed carefully at each kit, wondering which one was Shadowkit. He didn't have long however, as a dark brown tabby woke up the queen.

“Let's get going again, Dovewing. Spire had another vision last night. We must hurry.” Ashfur growled in disgust as Dovewing slowly opened her eyes and nodded silently, carefully nudging each kit awake. Each one had amber eyes that resembled the darkness of Tigerstar's. The light gray tabby kit playfully pounced on her siblings with a squeak as they yawned. “Come on, sleepy heads! Shadowkit! Lightkit!” The dark tabby she cat grumbled, playfully smacking her sister's muzzle in while the dark gray tabby tom rubbed his eyes. “Pouncekit…. Did you have to do that?” He murmured. “We're coming. We're coming.” Dovewing purred amused as she gave each one a lick on their heads.

“Hmm, that one is Pouncekit? Perhaps I can use her as bait to take care of Spire.” Ashfur’s mind raced with possibilities. There were so many options to endanger the kit and, frankly, if the kit or either of her parents passed in the attempt to save her, what loss was it really? He had another kit to sacrifice if he failed, and he would be doing the clans a favor by taking out the cats that deserted their clans. All he had to do was watch and wait for the right opportunity.

Chapter Text

For several nights, Ashfur followed the family closely, keeping an eye for when he could strike. He took his time, memorizing the names of the kits and their personalities. If he were to influence Shadowkit, he needed to know everything to convince him he had his best interest at heart. As they traveled, one thing had caught Ashfur’s attention more than anything. Shadowkit had violent attacks of shaking. And, of more interest to him, it seemed these attacks left the young tom's own spirit vulnerable, his spirit appearing to struggle to cling to life. Perhaps he could make himself known to Shadowkit in his next fit, leading him to a false sense of security by acting as a protector and guide. He had to get rid of Spire now if this were going to work!

Another observation, which Ashfur didn't really take much interest in, was that the family had been followed by three young cats that called themselves Ant, Blaze, and Cinnamon, as well as a few Shadowclan warriors he didn't really care about. They could live or die on this trip for all it mattered. None of them could stop him, not when they didn't know he was following their every move.

As the group continued, they came across a twoleg bridge that stretched across an endless river. A water dwelling monster seemed to catch the attention of the cats while Spire went ahead, likely scouting for a safe way to cross. As tempting as the twoleg bridge must seem, Ashfur knew they'd have to be mousebrained to cross it, as monsters roared on it, over the water dwelling monster. However, to his surprise, Spire was more mousebrained than he had originally thought. The black tom seemed impatient, beckoning the group under to join him. Even Tigerheart, as much as Ashfur despised him, seemed to understand that the tom's idea wasn't safe, especially with kits.

Tigerheart carefully let Pouncekit to the earth, his amber eyes full of anxiety and his tabby pelt prickled. “We should wait until sundown. There may be fewer monsters then.” The dark tom suggested.

Spire narrowed his gaze, looking to where Tigerheart's own gaze was, locked on the narrow walkway and high fence of the bridge. “We can't wait. We're already behind. We have to keep going.”

Ashfur let out a soft snort at the outsider’s words. Who did he think he was, ordering a clan cat around? To his surprise, however, Tigerheart no longer seemed to object, leading his crew to the bridge alongside Spire as if the black tom were his leader. Well, if these cats were going to get this close to monsters, who was he to complain? This was, after all, the perfect place to set a trap and end Spire's life. And, if it took a few of these cat's lives as well, who cares? That's the price they owe for abandoning their clans or wherever those others were from anyways.

Ashfur crept alongside the group, his eyes scanning for any opportunity to set an ‘accident’ for these cats. It didn't take long, as soon the bridge began to creek and slowly rise with a low groan. The venturing cats took notice, as Dovewing let out a panicked yelp, gripping her claws uselessly into the bridge. Shadowkit and Lightkit, noticing their mother's panic, also gave out panicked squeals. Their companions followed after Spire and Blaze who, to Ashfur’s dismay, had found a stretch of safe, flat stone. He had to act now before every cat had reached safety!

His attention turned towards the duo of panicked kits, and he felt a risk of excitement. This was perfect! Without thought, he ran to Lightkit, knocking her into Shadowkit and causing the two kits to fall towards the cats on the flat stone. To his dismay, it was not Spire who acted, not Cinnamon and the white warrior. He let out a frustrated growl but a panicked cry caught his attention.

“Where are you going? We need to get off the bridge now!” Tigerheart's voice rang above the cries of the cats. Ashfur turned to see what had worked up the dark tabby, only to realize he was calling to Dovewing. The gray queen was struggling to climb the slope as it grew steeper and steeper with every heartbeat.

“Pouncekit!” was all Dovewing could manage, shaking as her green eyes grew round with pure terror. Ashfur turned his gaze towards the gray tabby kit, lashing his tail. He had one last shot. Even if Spire didn't go for this kit, someone would and they'd likely die doing so. There was no safe ledge to grab the kits from this time! “She's going to fall through….”

Ashfur took off, now ignoring the mates cries for their kit. Desperately, he climbed the slope, blood pumping in his ears as adrenaline and pure joy kept him climbing faster than any living cats could manage. In no time, he reached the teetering kit and gave her one last quick shove to end it. “I almost feel sorry for you, Pouncekit. Suffering because of the terrible choices of your parents. May the dark forest have mercy on your little soul, you foul creature.” He growled softly.

Immediately, a flash of black fur rushed past Tigerheart and Dovewing. He leapt for the top, just where Ashfur had shoved the kit, determination flashing in his yellow eyes. Ashfur's heart quickened as he watched the tom's claws hook over the bridge and quickly pull himself up with only a slight struggle. Spire leaned towards Pouncekit, quickly grabbing her before she had fallen out of reach. Struggling to keep his balance on the bridge, he turned towards Dovewing, quickly dropping the squealing kit towards her mother, who missed her chance to save her. Ashfur gave an excited twitch of his whiskers, thinking this would be it for the she kit, but Ant managed to stretch and grab her, tossing her safely onto the thunder path. Rage filled Ashfur's belly as he turned back towards Spire. He may have saved the dark forest cursed kit, but he'd still have his true prize! No longer would be lead this journey, but Ashfur would through Shadowkit! He heard Dovewing's anguished cries for the tom and knew it would be now or never. As she and Tigerheart began to slide down the bridge, Ashfur slammed himself against Spire before he could return to the others, sending him tumbling back, into the water below with a startled, inaudible yowl from the rough impact.

“At last!” Ashfur purred, sliding carefully down the bridge just before it finished opening. He took one last look at the mourning group before following the river to where Spire had fallen, making sure the tom were truly finished. Thankfully, Spire had washed onto shore not far off, likely pushed by the waves of the water dwelling monster. Ashfur walked close, finding the tom gasping, every bone broken and twisted every which way. It would have made for a gruesome sight if he cared for the tom. Ashfur lay an ear to the tom's chest, ready to slice it open if he needed now that there were no witnesses. However, as the body grew colder and colder, Spire's yellow eyes soon faded.

Leaning against the cold tom, Ashfur found his own spirit slip into the broken body just as Spire's spirit left. “What the…” He gasped suddenly feeling himself in a mortal, broken body. Opening one eye, he managed to see Spire walking into the distance, not even bothering to stop and grieve his death as though he'd know what was coming. Ashfur tried to move a leg and found extreme pain shot throughout the body, pain he hadn't felt since the day Squirrelflight broke his heart, or maybe the day he was murdered. He wasn't sure which hurt more, not that it mattered. “I don't understand. I've broken bodies and I know Mapleshade drowned Darkstar in one of her attempts. What made this one work?” He thought. Suddenly, a new sensation went through Spire's broken body, making Ashfur tremble and fluff his black pelt as much as he could manage. “The cold…” He hissed. “The cold must preserve what binds spirit and body, if only for a moment. Then, if I'm going to kill Bramblestar, I best wait until leaf bare. And this time, I'd better not break his, no, my new body beyond any usefulness.”

“Now, how do I get myself out of this body?” Ashfur grumbled, closing his eyes as the pain slowly overtook his senses. Just as he felt he was going to pass out, a sense of calmness overcame him and the pain and cold disappeared. A light breeze rustled Ashfur's pelt, which he allowed to comfort him for just a moment, still feeling overwhelmed by the feeling of Spire's broken form.

“You'd better catch up! Don't lie about all day!” Hissed Mapleshade's voice in the breeze. How had she followed him here, outside clan territory? Perhaps the dark forest had its own connections to outside territories. Either way, having the dark tortoiseshell hissing in his ears was enough to get Ashfur to his paws. “I'm going, but don't forget this. I'm not taking orders from you or anyone. This is a team effort.” He paused and grumbled softly to himself, “Though I'm doing all the work now you weak, half faded nobody. I only needed you to start but I'm growing stronger without your nauseating breath in my ear, telling me how to do my job.”

There was no response and Ashfur was glad that it seemed she hadn't heard his cold retort. Shaking his pelt, he made his way back to the twoleg bridge. The family had moved on by now, but their scents were still fresh. “Good. I haven't lost them. Don't worry, Shadowkit. Dear old Ashfur will take good care of you all now. After all, how can you make your way home and help me kill Bramblestar when the time is right if I don't guide your every pawstep from now on.” He purred.

Chapter Text

“Where have you been?!” Ashfur looked up from beside the pool, where he'd been watching both Squirrelflight and Shadowkit, to see Thrushpelt glaring at him. “Elderberry and Tulipfang have been looking for you for days. We couldn't find you in your usual spots.”

Ashfur gave an annoyed grunt, glaring back at the sandy tom's untrusting gaze. “I'm sorry my siblings were missing me, but I really don't owe you an explanation. You've never liked me. But, if you must know, I just decided to explore our grounds further now that my little siblings have new friends. Is there anything wrong with that? I've been dead seasons, and yet I've had so little time to myself. You must understand wanting some time to breathe. As much as I love them, I need space from time to time.”

Thrushpelt snorted, thrusting his muzzle so close to Ashfur's that he could almost taste the rabbit Thrushpelt had caught that morning. “I don't have any real proof furball, but know that I'm keeping an eye on you. I've never trusted you. I'll never trust you. You should be rotting in the dark forest for everything you've done to those you supposedly loved. That's not what love means! What you did was criminal!”

Ashfur blinked innocently, fighting every urge he had to lash the foxhearted tom's nose right then and there. Instead, a gentle purr rose in his throat as he thought of the near future where Thrushpelt and the rest of Starclan would disappear for good. “That's not how I or the jury saw it. Besides, I'm here now and that's what matters. I'm just minding my business, keeping watch over my beloved and our clan. Is it against some hidden Starclan code to watch over those you loved? No? Didn't I prove that I carry no ill will in dismissing the charges against Hollyleaf for her murder of me? Yes! Go bother someone else. Otherwise, I'm sure your dear Bluestar would love to hear you've been harassing her old clanmate, hmm?” An amused smile spread across his face as he saw Thrushpelt hesitate slightly. “Oh, come now. I saw the way you look at her. That's how I look at Squirrelflight. It's obvious. You understand me more than you'll ever let on.”

Thrushpelt growled, slowly backing away from Ashfur. “We're not alike! We never were! I don't know how, not one of these days you'll slip and everyone will see that you should have never been allowed to stay!”

Ashfur yawned, licking his paw. “If you'll quit your yowling now, I'd like to get back to keeping an eye on my love and her kin. As you know, things have been unstable around that lake with Darktail's Kin, Skyclan arriving and Tigerheart's, I mean Tigerstar's adjustment to his leadership. I can't help but feel protective over Sparkpelt and especially that dear, sweet Alderheart after all they were put through.” He forced a purr, though it was tough not gagging out the names of Bramblestar's surviving kits. They should have been his! “I doubt you have anyone close to keep an eye on so, please move along.”

Thrushpelt lashed his tail, clearly frustrated as he turned away, making his way back to Starclan's campgrounds. Ashfur slowly got to his paws after a few moments, giving a shake to his pelt. As the water rippled to Tigerstar playing with his kits, he gave a soft hiss, throwing more branches from nearby bushes into the water with a quick swipe of his claws.

Thrushpelt had one good point, which he hated to admit. His kit siblings likely didn't have long left, especially once he put his plans into action. They deserved to spend some of their last remaining days by his side. Ferncloud was too busy doting over her own kits, and he couldn't trust Brindleface to keep a close eye on them after failing Ferncloud in the great battle.

Just as he made his way back into the camp, he felt the familiar feeling of the young cats grabbing and biting his tail. He gave a small chuckle, turning towards the young toms who looked up at him with large, playful eyes. His heart nearly shattered as he realized the kits were barely visible, even more than when he'd left on his journey, yet they seemed so unaware of their serious condition. He held back tears as Tulipfang let go, giving the biggest, most proud grin he'd ever seen. “We gotcha Ashfur!” He purred, playfully wiggling his bottom while Elderberry let go laughing.

“Yeah! Now you have to get us!” Elderberry took off, continuing his laughter. Tulipfang squeaked, turning and rushing after the smaller tom. Ashfur shook his head, feeling tears welling now that they were out of sight. He gave a soft hiss, swiping his paw over his face in an attempt to dry them. If these kits wanted to spend their last days playing with him, that's what they'd get, at least when he wasn't working on his plan.

Chapter Text

For several days, Ashfur kept his promise that he'd made to himself, playing with his siblings. He'd only managed to sneak to the moonpool from time to time, growing frustrated as he watched the clans below. Leaf bare was taking too long and he was growing tired of waiting to strike. Today, however, a loud yowl caught his attention out of his game with Tulipfang and Elderberry. “What's going on, Ashfur?” Tulipfang gasped, horror darkening his gaze as he crouched beside Elderberry.

“I'm not sure.” Ashfur admitted, tipping his head to the side. “But whatever it is, it can't be good. You two get back to the center of camp. I'll have a look.” Asfur instructed, heading towards the yowling which was sounding more and more concerned.

“We will. Be careful big brother!” Tulipfang meowed, his fur fluffed as he entire body trembled and fear scent entered Ashfur's nose.

“I bet it's a big scary dark forest cat trying to cross the border! Or, or a new scary prophecy. That didn't sound like Moth Flight, though so maybe not a prophecy. It's gotta be a gathering for a fight like the one Raggedstar called!” Elderberry purred eagerly as they ran off, only increasing the fear that drifted off of Tulipfang.

Ashfur followed a group of other curious dark forest cats. Whoever was calling the gathering seemed to have awakened the whole of Starclan. Cats from the age of Thunderstar to the newly fallen Dawnpelt of Shadowclan each made their way to what Ashfur began to realize was Starclan's border with the Tribe of Endless hunting. “What in the name of the ancients could the Tribe want from us?” He heard Skystar mutter from beside him. Ashfur gave a slight nod to the ancient leader's question. The Tribe of Endless Hunting stole one of their cats several seasons ago, when Feathertail died. What made them think Starclan would welcome a call from them now?

Just as his mind wandered to the fallen silver tabby, his eyes caught sight of the cats on the border and shock rippled from his back to his tail. A familiar blue eyed silver tabby looked at the entirety of Starclan, desperation in her gaze. “Thank you so much for coming!” Feathertail gasped, pacing so swiftly that Ashfur thought she might wear a canyon into the earth below her paws.

“Feathertail!” Silverstream burst from the crowd, a near mirror image of the she cat on the other side of the border. “Oh, I'm so happy to see you! It's been far too long! Let's see, last I remember, you visited us when Leafpool…”

Feathertail gently lay her paw on her mother's muzzle, quieting the silver queen, a hint of amusement just barely making its way through her serious gaze. “We can catch up later, Silverstream, I promise. But right now, there's danger! The clans are needed or all will be lost!”

“"Hold on.” Skystar snorted, pushing his way through the crowd. “Just why should we help the tribe cats? Don't we have enough problems to deal with at the lake?” The pale gray tom challenged, turning between Feathertail and the rest of Starclan.

“Hang on now. You, yourself came from the tribes. We all descended from them…” Meowed a calico she cat with a short tail, who turned towards Skystar through narrowed eyes. “Or have you really forgotten our past after all these generations of comfort here in Starclan?” She asked, standing nose to nose with the leader, impressing Ashfur. It wasn't many cats that he'd seen willingly challenge a founding member of the clans.

“Well, for one thing, not all of us came from the mountains, Turtle Tail.” Skystar meowed, pushing her aside dismissively to once again address Starclan. “You must have forgotten that even the great Windstar herself was not from the tribe, nor was Gorsestar or Riverstar. We gave up our connection when we took over these lands, just as Windstar, Gorsestar, and even Riverstar gave up their lives as rogues. We're our own entities now. The tribe is no longer connected to the clans. They stole a spirit that rightfully belonged to us. Let the tribe cats die!”

“Alright, fine. Most of us are descended from the tribe! But even those here that aren't must see the value in helping! They're still living cats bound by kinship and loyalty! They still deserve our respect which can be shown by our help. Besides,” Turtle Tail's voice grew low and steady, “What if we needed their help? Would they be justified in turning us away just because we aren't them? No! And we're not justified in turning them away either!”

Skystar looked ready to claw off Turtle Tail's ears, his blue gaze burning with fury while her green gaze shown with passion, ready to stand her ground. A white she cat, whom Ashfur recalled was Moth Flight stepped forward, pushing her way between Skystar and Turtle Tail before they could grow violent. “You both have valid points.” She started calmly, earning a low grumble from Skystar and a slight flick of the tail from Turtle Tail. “However, I think Skystar is right. We have to focus on the clans. That being said, I do think it's only fair we cast a vote to hear everyone's thoughts on the matter.” The ancient medicine cat added as Turtle Tail and Feathertail both shot her a disgusted look.

“We don't have time for this!” Feathertail hissed, slamming her paw against the ground. “There's so many cats in Starclan that this could take days! The tribe doesn't have that long!”

Skystar turned his cold gaze towards the young she cat with a hint of amusement. “Well, you might have a point there. Fine. Let's make it a vote only from the leaders. That shouldn't take as long and our words are, after all, law.”

Ashfur gave a surprised flick of his ears as a few cats, including Silverstream, gave their yowls of disapproval. Feathertail sighed, looking at the displeased crowd. “It's alright. I trust our, well your leaders to make the right decision. It is a better solution than waiting.”

Turtle Tail shook her head as Skystar walked away, keeping his smug, confident grin. The former leaders of every clan followed, murmuring so softly that Ashfur couldn't hear what was being said. “You made a bad choice Feathertail.” Turtle Tail meowed, narrowing her eyes as each leader disappeared behind a group of bushes. “You don't know Skystar like I do. He might be a fox heart, but he has a way of getting cats to see his way as the correct one. A larger group would have been harder to persuade at once.”

Deep down, Ashfur hoped that the calico she cat was right. This was the perfect chance to reach out to Shadowkit, show him the fall of the tribe. His clan would have to take action and Shadowkit would trust him even further as a voice of prophecy.