Warriorheart's Story

[Warriorstar~Deathfang]

The night was like a great, sleeping beast, silent but still carrying the threat of death. Nothing moved or stirred, and not even a breeze swayed through the bare branches of leaf-bare. Snow covered the ground like a silent invader, cold and white.
A trail of large paw prints wound throughout the forest. An unknown beast was wandering the forest. This cat belonged to no clan, for it's scent was completely unrecognizable. The paw marks were big and deep, with long shaggy hair blurring the marks in the newly fallen snow.
Two turquoise eyes flecked with gold peered out keenly from the darkness. Long, lethal fangs shone in the shimmering moonlight. The loner had come. The beast feared by all in it's own faraway land. No beast escaped this hunter. The razor sharp claws unsheathed and dug into the earth. At last, freedom!
The great beast leaped to the top of a great stone in the middle of a clearing surrounded by four tall trees, muscles bulging from the gray ashen hued fur covering the huge cat's body. The wildcat threw back its head and opened it's fang filled mouth. A mighty roar ripped from the creature's throat and went surging through the air, challenging any form of nature foolish enough to challenge the mighty Deathfang.
'Chapter One
Firestar sat motionless as his apprentice, Bramblepaw, crouched, waiting to spring. He watched him carefully, trying to predict his next move. Suddenly, Bramblepaw pounced, batting at his mentor's face with a sheathed paw. Firestar jumped back to the right, only to be surprised as Bramblepaw went to the right also, catching his legs in a noose. Firestar fell to the ground, only to scramble up again nimbly, looking proudly at his apprentice. "Well," he said. "It look's like it's time for you to become a warrior!"
Bramblepaw's eyes shone with pride and ambition, and Firestar was once again reminded of the cat's father, Tigerstar. But Tigerstar was dead, and Bramblepaw would grow to be a loyal ClanCat.
Firestar turned as he heard soft paw steps coming near him. Sandstorm, the beautiful ginger cat that Firestar loved, was padding toward him, her eyes filled with worry and concern. She twined her tail with Firestar in greeting and said, "Firestar, there's a rogue on the loose." Firestar could not see how this would upset Sandstorm. They had dealt with rogue cats before. But Sandstorm, as if reading his thoughts, said, "This cat is huge, and a tough warrior. It killed two badgers, Firestar. Two! And Mousefur said she saw it and said it was the most savage looking cat she had ever seen! It could be a danger."
Firestar buried his nose in Sandstorm's soft fur and breathed deeply of her heavenly scent as he replied, "Don't worry. We'll keep an eye out for it." Then the two warriors and the apprentice headed back towards the ThunderClan camp. As they walked along, Firestar mused over what Sandstorm had said. Could this loner cat really be a threat?
'As soon as the cats entered the ThunderClan camp, Firestar trotted over to Cinderpelt's den. The medicine cat was sorting her herbs into piles and carefully counting her supplies. Firestar looked fondly at his friend as she looked up, her blue eyes lighting up when she saw him. She limped up to him, excitement shining in her face, but concern was evident in her voice.
"Oh, Firestar! I was looking for you all afternoon!" She rubbed up against him before continuing. "StarClan sent me a vision! You must hear it!" Firestar sat down, leaning forward eagerly. "What did they tell you?"
Cinderpelt looked solemn for a moment, and then began, "They said that there's a threat coming to the forest. A strong band of...something...is coming. From the north, as far as I can make out. But they gave me a message of hope. They said that there is one cat who can defeat them. They said these very words:
The hidden one who hunts alone and comes down from the north,
The beast who comes from lands of snow, of lands with ones of brawn,
This warrior shall lead the clan, to victory or to death,
Win the beast's trust, give them a home, you will live to see the dawn."
Firestar looked pensive. "Do you know what it means?" Cinderpelt shook her head, but smiled reassuringly at her leader. "I think StarClan is saying that there will be some beast who will help us defeat the threat that comes. All we have to do is find them and gain their alliance."
"That shouldn’t be very hard to do," said Firestar sarcastically. "They said the hidden warrior. How are we going to find a hidden warrior?" Cinderpelt laughed. "Just trust StarClan, Firestar. They'll help us!"
As Firestar left the medicine cat's den, he had a good deal to think about. He thought back to what Sandstorm had said of the loner cat. Was this cat the one who would help them defeat the threat when it came?
Suddenly, an explosion of shrieks and caterwauls erupted from the forest, and something tore through the camp. It was the warrior Longtail, streaking through the camp and yowling with terror. Firestar ran forward, peering into the forest as something came dashing out at him.
It was the loner. Firestar was sure he had never seen such a huge or vicious looking cat in his life before. The muscles bulged in the rippling grey-splotched fur, and the claws and fangs of the beast were long and sharp. The hair on the back of it's neck was sticking up, and the tail was fluffed out to twice its size. The cat turned its turquoise eyes on Firestar, the blood mist veiling it's sight. It let out a savage roar and flung itself at Firestar.
Thinking swiftly, Firestar fell flat, shooting out all four paws. His breath was knocked from him as the beast fell across him, but he pushed upwards, throwing the roque off of him. Scrambling upright, Firestar leaped to the top of High Rock, watching his opponent. The cat flipped off of it's back and growled, eyes blazing. Then it leaped onto the High Rock with one mighty bound, slashing out with it's blade-like claws.
ThunderClan warriors were rushing out of the den, now, and they threw themselves at the intruder. Firestar saw the loner disappear under a pile of ThunderClan cats, but with a super feline strength, the cat reared up onto it's haunches, throwing Clan warriors off like a catapult.
The rogue was soon surrounded by warriors, unable to escape. Firestar leaped down, asking the question, "Do you surrender?" The warrior turned its huge head towards Firestar. In a rough, strong voice it growled out, "Naebeast defeats Deathfang! Ah slay all mah enemies!" Firestar was taken aback by the cat's broad northern accent.
Suddenly, Deathfang swiveled round, thrusting out with her powerful leg muscles as she made a spectacular leap into the over hanging branches. She spat contemptuously at the stunned warriors below. Then she was off like a squirrel, moving through the trees as though she were flying, roaring her battlecry.
"Warriors tae me, battle for aye!"



Firestar stood, his heart hammering in his ears as he let the shock of what had just happened die down. The ThunderClan cats were whispering and fidgeting fearfully, not sure of what to do. This rogue was a true killer!
At last, Firestar found his voice and spoke, "Graystripe!" A gray tom padded over to him. This was Firestar's oldest and dearest friend, and his deputy. He spoke to him in a voice that all the other cats could hear. "No cat shall leave the camp alone, and we shall all be extra careful when we go hunt. This rogue is a threat and a danger. Make sure the kits are always protected by at least two warriors in case of another attack. That is all."
Graystripe bowed his head, speaking in a respectful tone, "Yes, Firestar. But, should we send out a patrol to make sure the cat has gone?" Firestar nodded and stalked over to Cinderpelt's den.
The medicine cat was standing in the entrance of her den, her blue eyes wide with shock at what had happened. She tried to smile as Firestar came and stood by her, but she was too stunned to move. Firestar pressed his nose into her flank comfortingly as he murmured, "Did StarClan give you any sign about this cat?" Cinderpelt shook her head. "That rogue might be the one they spoke of, but..."
Cinderpelt's eyes were wells of worry, concern, and horror as she whispered, "What a monster! No score of cat's could bring that savage down! If we are to win it's alliance, it may cost lives, and StarClan knows how many!"
Firestar set his jaws tightly as he licked his friend's ears assuredly. "Don't worry, Cinderpelt. If any lives are to be lost, than it will only be mine. I have a total of eight left."
"Yes, I know," said Cinderpaw, remembering when Firestar had lost one of his lives at the battle of BloodClan and LionClan. He had been granted nine lives and his leader name when he went to the sacred Moonstone at Mothermouth.
Firestar left feeling a mite bit more comforted, but he wondered if he could win the alliance of the terrifying Deathfang with a thousand lives.

[Warriorstar~Deathfang]

Chapter Two
Blackstar stood immobile as his patrol reported the sighting of the rogue cat. He knew why this cat had come. Unbeknowest to his warriors, the ShadowClan leader had some dealings with the creatures up north, and knew their motives for driving the dangerous loner warrior into exile. She knew too much. But now she was running loose in the forest, slaying anything that came into her blood veiled sight. This rogue was possesed by the terrible bloodwrath. An overwhelming desire and lust for bloodshed was always with her. But Blackstar had a plan.
Blackstar turned and snapped out an order to his deputy, a thin scraggly tom with a weasle like nose. "Bladeclaw, I want you to strengthen the patrols and try to capture this rogue alive. She might be a good addition to our clan," he said, lying through his teeth. All he wanted was information. And Deathfang had it.

Deathfang was prowling the forest, still hungry. She had just finished stripping bare the bones of a long dead badger. She had also eaten a buzzard she had slain as it came down, attracted to the smell of the rotting carcass. But she had an insaciable appetite for fresh kill...and blood.
Deathfang was maddened by her bloodwrath, losing all of her wits at the sight and smell of blood. She was too dangerous, and had to leave her homeland.

Deathfang had been born on a cold, stormy night in the midst of a snow blizzard. Her mother and father were both strong warriors of the north and had met each other in battle. They were forbidden to see each other ever again, but one night they met in a cave together.
Later, Deathfang's father was killed in a battle with some wolves, leaving his secret mate to fend for herself in her pregnancy. Deathfang's birth was not easy on the mother. She was alone and in the middle of the blizzard. When the kit was born, she walked back with it to the camp. She gave the kit into the care of the clan's leader and later passed away.
Deathfang grew fast in stature and in strength. She was the fiercest warrior, an unbeatable opponent. She began fighting as a warrior when she was only two moons. Her reputation as a fierce, savage warrior spread, and all feared her.
But like her parents, Deathfang met a young warrior on the field of battle. They both admired each other's bravery and skill, and both fell in love. They also met secretly, and later Deathfang sent word to him that she was pregnant. Delighted with the news, her lover set out to visit her. But on his way to see her, he was ambushed by a group of warriors sent by Deathfang's foster father who had caught wind of their secret love. Deathfang was distraught, and out of her grief and desire for revenge, she slew her foster father. She was therefore banished from her homeland and doomed to wander the world as a loner.
Deathfang did her best to find a place to have her kits, but when the time came, they were stillborn. Deathfang's mind at last snapped. She went wild with madness and grief, rage and hatred, and at last was possessed by the terrible bloodwrath. She was now a killer, who slew only out of hatred.

Blackstar had once been Blackfoot, and was one of Tigerstar's cronies. He had been promoted to deputy, and when Tigerstar died, he became leader. He had gained his nine lives and was filled with ambition, like Tigerstar, and wanted to make his clan the strongest in the whole forest. Even if it cost countless innocent lives.
At least this was the story concocted by her enemies. The real story was full of deciet, treachery, and betrayal. Blackstar wanted to know everything, and he would do just about anything to get it.
Deathfang paused to smell the air, her keen senses picking up the scent of another cat. It was running, not swiftly, but at an easly lope, Deathfang estimated. She leaped into the boughs of a large tree to wait.
Firestar came trotting into the clearing. He was completely unaware of the huge warrior that sat watching him from the tree. Just as he passed under her branch, Deathfang leaped down, landing before him like some kind of stage play demon. Her eyes blazed as she crouched, eager for battle.
Firestar had made up his mind. This cat was either the great threat StarClan had spoken of, or the savior of them, the hidden warrior from the north. He decided to try and win the trust of this maniacal beast.
"Deathfang, isn't it?" he asked, trying his best to keep his voice from shaking. The big she cat thingyed her head, her mad eyes darting hither and thither. "Aye, sae et is. But whit are ye here for?" Firestar noticed her claws unsheathing. He had to talk fast.
"You came from the north, didn't you?" he said, hoping to sound friendly. Deathfang laughed mirthlessly. "Whit was ye're first sign, mah bold friend?" Firestar smiled, his confidence building as he saw Deathfang's muscles relax.
"Were you driven out?" he continued. Deathfang nodded impassively. "Does your tribe have plans to attack this forest?" Deathfang shrugged, feigning ignorance. "Mebbe et does, mebbe et don't. Ef ah told ye, whit would ye give me en return?"
Firestar stepped closer, knowing exactly what a savage like Deathfang would want, "Revenge!"
Deathfang's crazed eyes shone with a red fire, her muscles flexed as she savored the sound of the word; revenge!

[Warriorstar~Deathfang]

"Whit do ye need tae know?" Deathfang said. Firestar relaxed as he began speaking, "Wherever you came from has some connections with ShadowClan, doesn't it?" Deathfang nodded. Firestar continued, "How?" Deathfang looked him in the eye, rage burning in her fierce stare, "They made a deal. Ef ShadowClan provided us wi' land an' food, we would wipe oot all th' other cats except ShadowClan."
Firestar's eyes widened, and he was left speechless. Blackstar was truly another Tigerstar, highly ambitious and longing to conquer all the other clan's territories. Firestar nerved himself up to ask another question, "Why did you make that deal?"
Deathfang snorted, as if it was obvious, "Cause, th' northlands are cold wi' snow an' ice, an' we had run oot o' fresh kill. Blackstar promised us we could eat our foes ef we fought for 'im."
Firestar felt his stomach knot in fear as he involuntarily backed away, whispering in horror, "You...you eat other cats?"
Deathfang nodded, her eyes showing no remorse. Firestar felt he was about to retch, the terrible thought making him sick. Bile rose to his mouth but he swallowed it painfully and faced Deathfang yet again. "Will you join our clan? We were told that you are the warrior to help us."
He was afraid that Deathfang would say no, but even more afraid that she would say yes. He wasn't sure if he liked the idea of this beast staying with them. He felt a mixture of relief and anxiety as Deathfang slowly nodded. "Lead on, warrior," she growled.

[Warriorstar~Deathfang]

Firestar went on ahead, slightly uneasy at having his back turned to the beast behind him. He was relieved when they reached the gorse tunnel entrance of the camp. When he walked into the clearing with Deathfang behind him, all activity ceased. The ThunderClan cats stared wide-eyed at the ferocious monster that had strode into their midst. Now, when they could get a good look at her, she was even more intimidating. Her long fangs shone like icicles in the morning light, and her huge muscles were tensing as she became aware of the hostility emanating from the cats surrounding her. Her grayish brown pelt was torn and covered in battle scars. She had one long scar running from her ear tip to her jaw from a time when her face had been cleaved open, and her ear was torn in a jagged v-shape. A clump of her thick bushy tail was missing, and her massive paws were kneading the loose earth anxiously.
But the most terrifying things to look upon were her eyes. They were huge and keen, twin pools of turquoise flecked with gold and surrounded by a line of bluish-gray, like the sea after a storm. Slicing down the middle of each eye was the black slit of her iris, flat and ebony black. They were beautiful eyes, but they were terrifying to gaze into. They were clouded over with a blood-red mist, and they burned with a terrible fire. They were like twin flames of hatred, and the desire for bloodshed and death were evident in them. There was also a hint of sorrow, like some painful memory brought up from long ago. They were also slightly glazed over with agony, barely distinguishable beneath the blazing fury of an avenger. Every cat shuddered as they tried to avert their own gaze from the terrible eyes of the beast before them, as if the intensity of the flat stare was burning holes into their flesh.
They were all still showing hostility towards Deathfang, raising their hackles, baring their fangs, and unsheathing their claws. In the nursery, queens were herding kits into the safety of the shadowy corners. Apprentices were fluffing up their tails and trying to look opposing, and all the while quivering with fear. Warriors were standing their ground and hissing, but even they had fear in their eyes. The elders were huddling together inside their den, staring out with frightened yet indignant eyes. Cinderpelt was standing at the entrance to her den. She was also staring at Deathfang with fear in her eyes, but there was also a flicker of hope in the blue depths.
Firestar looked over at Cinderpelt and noticed that her mouth was moving. She was chanting something, her eyes distantly blank, as if she was in a trance. He could just barely make out her words.
“The heart like a wilderness, hated and scorned,
The evil ones weaved deceit, you be warned,
A warrior out for revenge and for death,
Beware the dark shadow till its dying breath.
The love is forgotten, the hate is recalled,
Those chosen must make the doom be forestalled.
Inside the beast who seems dark at heart,
Is a suffering victim who is falling apart.
Friends are remembered, enemies slain,
This seemingly demon the victory shall gain.
The eye of doom and the blackest star,
Through deceit have twisted things that are. The one to stop the doom that will start,
The fangs of death hide the warrior’s heart.”<br> Through the entire recitation, Cinderpelt’s voice had been growing louder until it was ringing through the camp and every cat heard it. When she finished, Cinderpelt seemed to jolt back into reality. She stared about blankly, almost quizzically.
Firestar leaped onto Highrock, not needing to call for the cats as they were all gathering already. He cleared his throat and began, “Cats of ThunderClan, this is Deathfang. She will be joining us temporarily.” Gasps of surprise greeted this news. None of the warriors looked pleased about having to sleep in the warriors’ den with the huge, savage beast. Firestar continued, “I have learned that Blackstar has made a deal with Deathfang’s old tribe. They are going to attack all the clans except ShadowClan. They are trying to wipe us out.” The cats began mewing with alarm and looking at each other fearfully.
Firestar assured them as best he could, “Deathfang was sent to us by StarClan. She will help us.” None of the cats seem to feel any better after this. They didn’t trust Deathfang. Firestar saw Longtail looking at Deathfang with sheer terror in his eyes.
Suddenly, Deathfang bounded up onto the Highrock, meowing out in a firm, deep voice that was heard clearly by all, “Listen tae yer chieftain! Ah am Deathfang, an’ Ah am from the northern tribe that’s goin’ tae attack ye. But Ah’m goin’ tae help defeat them…” And she added more quietly to herself, “An’ settle mah score wi’ ‘em!”<br> As the cats were moving away from the Highrock, Firestar remembered something. He called out, “Let all cats old enough to catch their own prey join beneath the Highrock for a Clan meeting.” The cats gathered back, gazing up expectantly. Firestar continued, “Bramblepaw, you have fought well and protected your clan and have learned fast. I have decided that the time has come for you to take your place as a warrior in ThunderClan.”<br> Bramblepaw was bursting with pride and excitement. He padded over to the foot of the Highrock and looked up at his mentor, his eyes shining. Firestar began to speak the ritual words. “I, Firestar, leader of ThunderClan, call upon my warrior ancestors to look down on this apprentice. He has trained hard to understand the ways of your noble code, and I commend him to you as a warrior in his turn.”<br> Firestar lowered his gaze and met Bramblepaw’s amber eyes. “Bramblepaw, do you promise to uphold the warrior code and to protect and defend this Clan, even at the cost of your life?”<br> “I do,” Bramblepaw meowed, his voice trembling with excitement.
Now, Firestar had no doubt that Bramblepaw would be just as great a warrior as his father, but also a loyal one.
“Then by the powers of StarClan, I give you your warrior name. Bramblepaw, from this moment you will be known as Bramblefur. StarClan honors your courage and strength, and we welcome you as a full warrior of ThunderClan.”<br> Leaping down from the Highrock, Firestar padded over to Bramblefur and rested his muzzle on his head. Bramblefur gave his shoulder a respectful lick, then went over to stand beside the other warriors. The Clan crowded around him, chanting his new name and congratulating him.
“You’re keeping vigil tonight,” Firestar reminded the new warrior. “Remember, you have to stay silent until dawn.” Bramblefur nodded and padded off to take up a position in the center of the clearing, his head and tail held high with pride.
Firestar turned, noticing Deathfang standing beside him. She was looking at him quizzically, a look of puzzlement in her eyes. Firestar explained to her, “We have naming ceremonies when the apprentices become warriors.”<br> Deathfang still looked puzzled. “Back in mah old tribe, ye were a warrior as soon as ye were born.” Firestar was appalled. No wonder Deathfang was such a savage! She had been fighting ever since she was born!
Deathfang flexed her huge claws and hunched her muscular shoulders. Firestar admired the way her thick, gray-flecked pelt rippled along her muscles.
Graystripe, Firestar’s deputy and best friend, padded up and whispered, “I suppose we can stop those extra patrols.” Firestar shook his head, meowing, “We need to make sure ShadowClan isn’t planning on an attack. Also we should watch out for Deathfang’s old tribe.” Graystripe nodded and stalked off.
Firestar turned to Deathfang. “Come into my den. I need you to tell me everything.” Deathfang nodded and followed Firestar to the foot of Highrock, where he pushed back the lichen and went to his nest, motioning for Deathfang to sit down too. Deathfang settled herself onto her haunches and waited in silence.
Firestar began hesitantly, not wanting to put Deathfang in a bad temper, “Why were you driven out from your old tribe?” Deathfang tensed, and then began her sad tale.
“Mah father was th’ chieftain o’ our tribe. ‘E was a good leader, an’ a braw warrior. Ah dinnae know who mah mother was. They ne’r told me. Well, there was a younger warrior, only two seasons older ‘en me, named Doomeye. ‘E was an ambitious one. Mah father agreed tae ShadowClan’s deal, an’ we were aboot tae begin, an’ mah father called Doomeye tae his den for council. Ah was walkin’ by, when Ah heard snarls an’ spittin’. Ah looked en an’ saw Doomeye fightin’ wi’ mah father. Doomeye slit ‘is throat an’ watched ‘im die. Ah pounced on ‘im, an’ mah grief was so great, et weakened me. Doomeye o’erpowered me an’ claimed that Ah had killed mah own father! The tribe drove me oot. An’ Doomeye gave me this.” Here Deathfang ran her paw across the scar on her ruined face.

[Warriorstar~Deathfang]

Firestar felt pity well up deep within him as he saw the agony of the painful memory in Deathfang’s cloudy eyes. But he somehow sensed that she was not telling him the whole truth. Shifting uncomfortably, Firestar spoke his thoughts, “Are…are you sure you’re not…leaving anything out?”<br> He instantly regretted his words. Deathfang sprang up, her fur bristling as her hackles rose. Her eyes were blazing and sharp as flint as she roared out with a ferocity that set Firestar trembling, “D’ye take me for a liar!? Ah’ve told ye all ye need tae know! Noo leave me alone!”<br> Firestar backed up against the wall, feeling small and helpless in the face of this beast’s fury. “I need to know everything, Deathfang!” Deathfang’s eyes were filled with an expression of pure hatred, and Firestar felt as if he was gazing into the very fire of Hellgates. Deathfang lunged suddenly, lashing out with her claws. Firestar leaped aside, his fur standing on end.
Shhiing!
Firestar stood transfixed, his heart hammering in his ears as he looked at Deathfang. She was crouching, her scarred chest heaving as she gasped out with wheezing breaths. Firestar was horrified to see that a whole section of the rock wall of his den, about two paws deep and five long, had been gouged out with one swipe of Deathfang’s deadly claws.
Deathfang shot Firestar a venomous look, then turned on her haunches and disappeared. Firestar sat, his head lowered in sorrow. Had he lost his chance of gaining Deathfang as an ally? Had he even become her enemy?
Cinderpelt, who was coming into his den as Deathfang rushed out, was nearly bowled over.

[Warriorstar~Deathfang]

She looked back in bewilderment, then hurried into the den. “What was that all about?” she asked. “I’ll tell you later. What is it?” Firestar mewed.
Cinderpelt looked serious. “When I was reciting that strange rhyme, I was having a vision of StarClan. There was a giant cat, not unlike Deathfang, but a male, and he looked almost exactly like her! He was standing in the middle of the crowd of StarClan, and they were all sharing tongues with him. Then he turned to me and said, ‘Th’ fangs o’ death hide th’ warrior’s heart. Ye must make that warrior understand!’ Then, StarClan faded, and I saw an open clearing, probably somewhere past Highstones. The entire clearing was suddenly teeming with cats! All big and tough like Deathfang, a vast army of slayers! ShadowClan was there too, and two cats were leading them. One was Blackstar, and the other was a huge cat, almost as big as Deathfang. The large group of the northern army started chanting, ‘Doomeye! Doomeye! Kill! Kill!’ Then, the cats disappeared, and I could see that endless void of water that the Twolegs call the sea. But it was red with blood! Then I saw Bluestar, and she said, ‘Trust the tortured avenger, but do not let her hatred lead her astray. Let her find the dragon.’ Then, it all disappeared!”<br> Firestar stood, struggling to flatten the fur that was prickling along his spine. The description of Cinderpelt’s vision was so horrifying that he wanted to cower in his den. What did it all mean? But one thing had relieved him; Bluestar had assured Cinderpelt that they could trust Deathfang. She was a tortured beast, and she was definitely looking for revenge. If Bluestar said she could be trusted, Firestar knew it must be so. But who was the dragon? What was a dragon? He had never heard of a dragon. He voiced his thoughts to Cinderpelt.
“I’ve no idea what a dragon is, but I have a feeling that some of the elders might. They know all sorts of old queen’s tales.” Firestar took this to be sound advice. The elders were always telling stories of mythical creatures to the kits and apprentices. Perhaps they knew what a dragon was. He mewed a farewell to Cinderpelt and headed towards the elders’ den.

[Warriorstar~Deathfang]

He reached the old log, noting sadly the blackened ends left from the fire that had ravaged the camp. He went into the elders’ den to find Speckletail eating a vole. She glanced up at him and nodded curtly. She was a stubborn old queen, very serious and harsh. She had always been that way, but she was even more so now because one of her kits, Snowkit, had been carried off by a hawk. Firestar cleared his throat and began, “Speckletail, I don’t suppose you know what a dragon is, do you?”
Speckletail stiffened and turned on him. “Of course I know what a dragon is! Any cat knows what a dragon is!” Firestar backed away and nodded apologetically. “Can you tell me what it is?” Speckletail snorted. “I suppose somebeast ought to tell you. A dragon is an ancient, winged creature. It has scales all over it. It’s like a giant lizard with the wings of a bat. It’s huge, bigger than those big yellow twoleg monsters that swallow twoleg kits. It breaths fire and has a roar like a cat from LionClan. It has giant sharp horns coming out from its head and huge claws and fangs. They have big spikes on their backs and long, heavy tails that end in balls covered in thorns,” Speckletail stopped, amused by Firestar’s awestruck expression. “Don’t worry, they’re extinct.”
Firestar shook himself and said, “Extinct? That’s not good!” Without any explanation to Speckletail, he dashed off to find Cinderpelt. He nearly collided with her as she was rushing to find him. “Firestar!” she gasped out, “I had another vision!” Firestar was bewildered. “Another one? So soon?” Cinderpelt nodded, “Bluestar was standing in front of me, and she said, ‘Do not shrink from snow, it will show the way.’”
This time Firestar was really puzzled. “Snow? Well, there’s plenty of that here,” he said, gesturing to the snow that covered the ground. Dragons, snow, a sea of blood, black stars, eyes of doom, warrior hearts and fangs of death, where would it all end, Firestar thought. He told Cinderpelt about the dragon and Cinderpelt digested the information. “Hm…Well, if they’re extinct, they won’t really help us, will they?” she mewed. Firestar sighed in exasperation. He felt frustrated.
Suddenly, Graystripe came loping up to him, gasping out, “Firestar! Come quick! Deathfang’s over in ShadowClan territory!”<br>

[Warriorstar~Deathfang]

He set off after her, crying out to her, “Och, dinnae flee! Ah dinnae wish tae frighten ye! Ye are such a beautiful creature! Ah am Scarfang, son o’ Darkfang, an’ Ah am pursuin’ ye only because Ah love ye!”<br> Deathfang continued running, not wishing to be with her admirer. He began over taking her. She faltered, half turning. Scarfang leaped, cannoning into her. He landed on top of her, lying across her. He grinned cheekily at her, pecking her on the muzzle. “Och, whit a pretty catch! Come on, me beauty! Ah’m from th’ Death tribe. Mah father is the second in command to th’ mighty Killerclaw. Who are ye, me pretty one?”<br> Deathfang struggled half-heartedly. She liked this young Scarfang. She bared her teeth playfully and bit him, flirting in the typical northern style. “Och, Ah’m from th’ Blood tribe, daughter o’ Slayerclaw, leader o’ th’ tribe. Es that enough for ye?”<br> Scarfang smiled down at her, seeing her pretty face blushing at him. He leaned down, whispering in her ear, “Ah’m th’ one who gave yer brother Doomeye that bonny great welt on ‘is back, d’ye remember th’ battle o’ Gore Field?”<br> Deathfang drew her claws across his chest, drawing blood in a friendly way. “Och, Ah admire ye for that! Ye’re a bonny great beastie!” Scarfang purred with pleasure as he felt the claws pierce his chest. He let the she-cat lap up his blood, her eyes shining.
“Och, will ye meet me sometime soon?” Scarfang asked. Deathfang leaped up, bowling into him and biting him playfully on the neck. She purred and said, “Jist ye try an’ stop me!”<br>
That was before Doomeye had killed his father and joined all of the tribes together. They had joined one giant tribe called Doom. Scarfang had never seen Deathfang again.

Chapter Six

Firestar crouched, waiting for a chance to give a clean kill. He pounced, landing on the mouse and slaying it with one swipe of his claws. He took it in his jaws, preparing to take it back to the camp as soon as he retrieved the other prey he had buried on his way back. As he was passing Snakerocks, he heard something big and clumsy lumbering through the bracken. He crouched, opening his mouth so as to catch the scent. Badgers!
There were two of them, fully grown and dangerous. Either it was a family, or it was two males fighting together. He began backing away, but it was too late. The pointed, striped muzzle of one poked through the undergrowth, teeth bared as it saw Firestar in its territory. Firestar looked about wildly, searching for a place to run to. The mouse was still clamped in his jaws, but he was too frightened to drop it.
Then, to Firestar’s horror, the badger charged, followed closely by the other. Firestar tried to run, but it was too late. The first badger reached him, nearly a hairs breadth from him. It opened its huge jaws and swung a heavy blunt paw at him.
Suddenly, a grey blur sped past Firestar and hurled itself at the badger, bowling it over. Firestar could see massive shoulders bunching with corded muscles as the cat slashed at the badger’s eyes. Deathfang!
The other badger went at Deathfang, and the two huge beasts set apon Deathfang at once. But Deathfang was strong. She surged up, her teeth set in the first badger’s throat and her strong hind legs battering the other’s face. The first badger gave out grunts of pain and blood bubbled from its mouth. It staggered crazily and fell down, dead. Deathfang leaped from the body and landed on the other badger’s back, teeth set in its spine. The badger rolled over, trying to crush Deathfang, but she pushed up with all four legs and flung it from her. The badger fell hard on its back, the already fractured spine snapping. A horrible spasm shook it, and then it lay motionless, obviously dead.
Deathfang stood, her fur matted with blood, but she didn’t notice any of her wounds. She rushed over to Firestar, who was standing in awe, unable to move or speak. “Och, matey, are ye alright?”<br> Firestar turned stupidly to her, nodding his head, unable to answer. Deathfang took the mouse from him and turned to go back to camp, her wounds not bothering her a bit. Firestar went after her, his heart still thumping. He could not believe what he had witnessed. Deathfang had just killed two fully grown badgers single pawed! What a warrior!

[Warriorstar~Deathfang]

Deathfang reached the camp before him, and she chose a mouse from the fresh kill pile. She turned and smiled crookedly at Firestar. “Och, Ah’ll go back an’ git th’ two dead badgers an’ put ‘em on th’ pile. There’s good eatin’ on badgers.”
Whitekit, one of the older kits in the nursery, padded up to Deathfang. He was fascinated with Deathfang. His big eyes shone with admiration as he asked the tough warrior with awe, “You gotted a badga? Did ‘e get deaded?”
Deathfang smiled at the young kit, but there was a look in her eyes that made Firestar feel that she was upset by kits. But she humored the curious youngster, “Och, aye, mah bonny bairn. Enough meat on ‘em tae make ye grow big an’ strong!”
The young kit could not understand the tough northern accent. But he pranced about in excitement, eager to impress the wild cat. His attention was drawn to something moving about behind the nursery. He darted behind, giving out a squeaking roar as he pounced.
Suddenly, Whitekit began screaming in agony, his yowls of distress alerting the entire camp. Deathfang was up and running to the kit. It was a hedgehog. Whitekit had pounced on the beast, resulting in painful stickles impaled in his skin. Deathfang, without any regard to her own safety, grabbed the hedgehog in her mouth, shaking it and hurling it away. It plopped down into a heap of bracken, trundling away in high dudgeon.
Whitekit whimpered as Deathfang took him up and slung him onto her strong back. She carried him over to Cinderpelt’s den. She dropped him off there. Cinderpelt attended to the kit first. She nipped the stickles out with her teeth. She produced a wad of dock leaves, wild cloves and rowan berries and rubbed it over the areas where the stickles had been.
Cinderpelt turned to Deathfang, seeing her injuries. “My! What have you been doing?” she gasped, seeing the dried blood from the fight with the badgers. Deathfang shrugged nonchalantly. She had stickles on the inside of her mouth and blood dripped from her jaws. Cinderpelt forced her to stay and she administered to the stickles. She put cobwebs on her other wounds, and as Deathfang came out, Firestar went to join her. She had certainly proven herself. She was a worthy warrior. Firestar had been musing over the words of the rhyme Cinderpelt had recited about her. The fangs of death hide the warrior’s heart. What did it mean? He felt that it had a secret meaning. The fangs of death. Deathfang? Warrior’s heart. What did that mean?
Firestar was interrupted from his thoughts as Sandstorm came up to him, her eyes worried. Snowhawk followed her closely. Sandstorm licked Firestar’s ears in greeting and said, “Snowhawk says he has an idea of where the northern army is. He saw two scouts prowling around in the woods. He went after them, but they vanished like smoke!”
Snowhawk looked at Firestar with concern, “They were like shadows, Firestar. They can blend in with anything! They’ll be hard to fight if they resort to fighting guerilla style.”
Firestar’s stomach churned at the news. This army of northern warriors seemed invincible. What would they do to stop it?
“Double the patrols, but leave at least five warriors here in case of an attack,” he ordered. Snowhawk and Sandstorm dipped their heads and went off to carry out his orders.

It was late afternoon, and the last of the snow had gone. The sun shone warmly down as Firestar sat with Graystripe, eating a plump starling. He looked up and swallowed his mouthful and asked, “Any news on the northern cats?”
Graystripe tore a bite from a vole, chewing it thoughtfully. He spoke with a full mouth, “No, nothing yet. There are the odd bits of stolen prey, dead badger and fox carcasses and strange cat dirt, but nothing else. I think we have most of it under control.”
The words had barely left his mouth when Cloudtail came sprinting into the camp, calling out in a shrieking voice, “Firestar! Firestar! It’s them! It’s them!”
He was followed by two huge cats; northerners! Their muscles bulged and their sinews stood out like whipcords as they ran. Their jagged teeth were bared in a ferocious snarl as they pursued their prey. The entire camp was roused. Warriors came out of their den, shocked and terrified. They instinctively threw themselves at the intruders. The two larger wild cats were battling fiercely. They knocked cats to and fro, kicked out with powerful hind limbs and ripped with fangs and claws.
Firestar’s heart sank. Even with all of the warriors in the camp, they could not beat the two northerners. One of them had Cloudtail on his back, and was going down for a swift bite to the neck, and Firestar was knocked backwards by the other as it sought to slit his throat. All seemed lost.
“Sssssssdeath!”
The war cry of the mighty northern warrior surged forth like steel striking stone as Deathfang hurled herself at the two cats. They were huge, well built cats, but Deathfang was bigger and stronger. She grabbed them both around the necks with both claws and hurled them bodily. One slammed into a tree, the impact of Deathfang’s throw snapping his neck with a sickening crunch. The other flipped over onto his back only to see Deathfang hurtling through the air at him, fangs bared and claws out. She hit him with full force, digging her claws into his soft belly and twisting cruelly, making him cry out in agony. She pulled him upright, dragging him in closer to her, her savage face in his as her mad eyes bored holes in his. He turned away from her insane gaze. She pulled him in close, finally sinking her teeth into his throat, setting them in good. He screamed in anguish, trying to get loose, but she didn’t let go.
At last, she let go as the warrior lay writhing on the ground, gurgling as blood bubbled from his mouth and the wound in his throat. At last, he lay still.
There was silence, only broken by a kit softly crying in fear. Deathfang turned, spitting on the carcass of the beast she had slain and growling with contempt, “Cast this thing over th’ gorge. It doesnae deserve a proper burial, like any decent creature.”
Dustpelt, Longtail, Cloudtail and Brackenfur took the bodies to dump them over the gorge. Cinderpelt went to see that everyone was all right. She had to treat a few bites and claw marks, but nobody was seriously injured. Deathfang had the worst injuries, but even they were small. She was so tough, even a bad wound wouldn’t have affected her. The cats that walked past her looked at her with fear in their eyes. They had never seen a creature willingly slay another creature like that. But in the north, battles always ended in death.
Deathfang seemed rather pleased with herself. She had a lighter mood. Firestar surmised that this was because her revenge was drawing nearer. She would finally avenge herself for what her own kin had done to her to make her suffer so.
Cinderpelt did not go to see Deathfang. Fear and repulsion was in her eyes as she sat treating the others. She obviously did not like the way Deathfang was handling things.

At the camp of the Doom tribe, Doomeye was sitting dejectedly under a tree. Bloodtail came up to him, afraid that his chief would take out his anger on him after he heard the bad news. His moods were unpredictable.
“Chief? Th’ scouts are dead.”
Doomeye acted as if he hadn’t heard. He just sat there, his strange eyes hard as if he was concentrating on something. Bloodtail tried again.
“Knickear an’ Foxclaw are dead, sir.”
Doomeye looked up, his look distant and vague. “Oh, they are? That’s no good. Whit killed ‘em?”
Bloodtail hesitated, knowing he was touching on a delicate subject.
“Deathfang.”
Doomeye was up like a springing panther, grabbing Bloodtail by the snout, digging his claws in deep and pulling him near, his eyes blazing. “Deathfang?! She’s here?! Where?!”
Bloodtail whimpered in agony as the claws dug deep into his snout. He tried to answer but came out with something that sounded like, “Uh duddo! Dey wuh in duh gorge!”
Doomeye released him, yelling in his face and covering him with spittle, “Stop gabblin’ on like an’ idjit! Where?!”
Bloodtail fell back, nursing his nose and squealing out, “We dinnae know! The bodies were found en that big gorge!”
Doomeye paced back and forth, his limbs trembling. Bloodtail gulped hard, knowing how close to death he had come. Doomeye slumped down again and spoke to Bloodtail. Bloodtail was astonished to hear a sob in his master’s voice.
“Ah ain’t been sleepin’ at nights. Post extra guards around me when et gits dark!”
Bloodtail stayed a moment, looking at his chief. Doomeye stared suspiciously at him.
“Stop starin’ at me like that, thick’ead. Gerraboot yer business an’…send oot a bigger patrol!”
Bloodtail saluted and walked off bemused. This was not the Doomeye he knew from the older days. The chief was definitely acting strange. He glanced back at Doomeye, but the wild cat did not notice him looking, because he, too, was peering back over his shoulder.

[Warriorstar~Deathfang]

Snowhawk crept along the ground, his white fur standing out, as he no longer had any snow to blend into. He moved swiftly and silently through the shadows, his paws making no noise. He paused to sniff the ground, wrinkling his nose at the smell of rotting crowfood; more prey of the northern cats.
Snowhawk suddenly found Cloudtail before him. The older warrior smiled at him and fell in beside him, speaking in a low voice, “They said you know where the army is.” Snowhawk nodded, his blue eyes hard. “It’s very close. Can’t you feel it?”
Cloudtail nodded, feeling his neck hairs go stiff. He did feel it. They were very close.
“We should go back. No sense in us getting ourselves killed,” he whispered. Snowhawk nodded, and the two white warriors turned and melted into the surrounding trees.
As they left, a pair of blood red eyes watched their departure. Then they began following them, silent and swift, undetected by its prey.
At first, Snowhawk thought Cloudtail had stumbled, and then he saw the blood. Cloudtail fell limp, his tongue lolling out as the slash at the back of his neck oozed blood. He looked up at Snowhawk and gasped out, “Run!”
Snowhawk gave out a yowl of hatred as he saw a dark shape flit behind a tree. He leaped at it, slashing out with his claws. He caught something a deep slash and heard it grunt in pain, but he felt sharp claws grip him by his throat like a vice. He gasped for breath and struck out blindly, battering the thing’s face, but it gave out a hoarse laugh of evil pleasure. He vaguely saw two blood red eyes shining like flames in the shadows of the trees. Its claws tightened, piercing his neck and causing excruciating pain.
Snowhawk went limp, falling onto the body of Cloudtail. The assassin gave out a yowl of triumph and disappeared, leaving his victims strewn along the forest floor.

Chapter Seven

Deathfang ran forward, recognizing the place that the Clan cats called Fourtrees. But why was she here? She didn’t remember coming here. Had Firestar sent her? Where was he? Was she alone?
A sudden, blinding light blazed up before her. The form of a cat, shining brilliantly as if all the stars of Silverpelt had gathered at one place, stepped forward. She gazed at it, not flinching but not knowing why. She saw the cat step forward and smile at her, showing that she came in peace.
Deathfang bowed her head, feeling awed in the presence of this starry form. The cat came right up to her, placing her muzzle on her shoulder. The she-cat began speaking in a voice that demanded attention, full of authority and power, “Deathfang. It is a savage name, befitting the old life you led. Change your name and your life. Take a new name and become a warrior of the forest! Then you must find warriors to help your new homeland! Remember, the fangs of death hide the warrior’s heart!”
The scene suddenly vanished, and Deathfang felt herself falling through dark mists. She found herself in a dry, barren place, white sand everywhere. It was a vast, sea of unending white sand, the hot sun blazing down unmercifully. The cat spoke again, “Follow sand. Find the sand dwellers. Follow snow. Find the Holt. Journey past into the mountains and follow the moon. Follow the moon. You must remember!”
Deathfang jerked awake, finding herself once more outside under the spreading tree where she slept, as she had no room in the warriors’ den. The morning was still very young, for the sun was not up yet. Mist was over the clearing, and it was chilly. She lay back down, thinking over the strange dream. There were so many riddles. Riddles were one of the things that cats from the north did to amuse themselves, second favorite only to fighting. But there were no clues to this riddle! Sand? Snow? The Holt? Moon? What did it all mean?
Deathfang guessed that this strange band of heavenly cats called StarClan was trying to tell her something. “Why can’t they jist say et th’ way et should be said?” Deathfang muttered irritably to herself. She decided to talk to Cinderpelt. She was the closest thing to a seer in this Clan.
Deathfang shook the dew from her fur and padded over the crisp grass to the medicine cat den. She squeezed through the passage and emerged in the small clearing. Cinderpelt was sleeping peacefully, and Deathfang thought it a shame to wake her. She was obviously very tired, and she would not be pleased to see Deathfang. Deathfang knew that Cinderpelt did not like her. But there was nothing for it, and this was important.
Deathfang tapped Cinderpelt gently, or at least what she thought was gentle. Cinderpelt jerked awake, leaping up and staring about with wide eyes. She gasped at the fearsome sight of Deathfang in the gray of the morning, but she calmed down, annoyed with the northern cat. “What do you want?” she snapped.
Deathfang felt her neck hairs rise. Cinderpelt had no right to treat her that way! But she huffed and growled, “Ah’ve had a dream from StarClan! Or d’ye think yer beauty sleep es more emportant then that?”
Tension was thick in the clearing as two pairs of ice blue eyes glared at each other. But Cinderpelt quailed, bowing her head, speaking in a softer voice, “I’m sorry. I know I haven’t been very patient with you. But…you…I’m sorry, but I have to be honest with you…you frightened me!”
Deathfang smiled, her eyes shining with amusement. “Och, ‘tis alright. Ah frighten lots o’ creatures. Ah’m used tae harsh treatment. Dinnae fret. Ah hope we can git tae be better mates, eh?”
Cinderpelt smiled, suddenly very happy. She was getting to like Deathfang much better. But enough with sentiment! “What was your dream about?” Deathfang became serious as she recounted her dream, telling the medicine cat all about the strange riddles.
“Whit was that riddle or verse ye recited when ye saw me that day on Highrock?” Deathfang asked. Cinderpelt looked at her, her eyes serious. “I was in a trance when I was saying them, but the words burned into my memory. Here, this is how it went;
The heart like a wilderness, hated and scorned,
The evil ones weaved deceit, you be warned,
A warrior out for revenge and for death,
Beware the dark shadow till its dying breath.
The love is forgotten, the hate is recalled,
Those chosen must make the doom be forestalled.
Inside the beast who seems dark at heart,
Is a suffering victim who is falling apart.
Friends are remembered, enemies slain,
This seemingly demon the victory shall gain.
The eye of doom and the blackest star,
Through deceit have twisted things that are.
The one to stop the doom that will start,
The fangs of death hide the warrior’s heart.”
Deathfang sat silent. Cinderpelt saw a tear slide down her scarred cheek. The northern she-cat sniffed and began speaking huskily, “’Tis aboot me. Ah’m a horrible monster, this Ah know. Ah’m a worthless…thing!”
Cinderpelt’s heart went out to this great warrior as she bowed her great head and wept brokenly. “But Deathfang! The verse speaks of how you are now! But there is hope also! ‘Friends are remembered, enemies slain’ is a line that brings hope!”
“’Th’ eye o’ doom an’ th’ blackest star,’ that’s Doomeye an’ Blackstar. En mah dream th’ she-cat said ‘the fangs o’ death hide th’ warrior’s heart’. Whit does that mean?”
Cinderpelt shrugged. She watched as another tear fell from Deathfang’s eyes. It spattered on the ground. A thin ray of the first light of morning shone on it. The tear gleamed blood red and Cinderpelt gasped.
“The blood tear!”

[Warriorstar~Deathfang]

Deathfang looked up, her eyes confused as she looked at Cinderpelt. “Whit does that mean?”
Cinderpelt looked at Deathfang with bright eyes as all dawned on her. She began explaining, “Deathfang, you are to leave here and find warriors to help fight against your brother and his army! The blood tear is a sign for you to leave! You must leave this very day!”
Deathfang looked at her, realization creeping into her eyes as she nodded. Cinderpelt continued, “I had a dream that showed me another StarClan cat who spoke to me and said, ‘The tear of blood shall show when the chosen one is ready to protect her forest home’.”
“Her forest home?” Deathfang said, her eyes misty as she mused over the words. “A home. Here? Home…” She looked up, her eyes resolute. “Ah leave today.”

Firestar sat on Great rock, surrounded by StarClan cats. Bluestar stood forward, speaking to him, “The fangs of death hide the warrior’s heart. You know what it means! Deathfang must become a forest warrior! Now awake, Firestar! Awake!”
Firestar woke, trembling as realization crept up on him. Deathfang was to be a ThunderClan cat! This very day!
He was up and about a few moments after Deathfang had gone to see Cinderpelt. He saw the two she-cats padding out of the medicine cat’s den, speaking in quiet tones. Firestar bounded over to them, speaking to Deathfang excitedly, “Deathfang! Today, you become a ThunderClan warrior!”
Deathfang looked at Firestar, happiness in her eyes, but not surprise. She smiled and nodded, her eyes clouded with emotion.

Firestar stood tall on Highrock, his cats assembled under the rock, excitement brewing among them as they waited for Firestar to give Deathfang her Clan name. All the cats had become fond of Deathfang and had hoped she would stay.
Firestar looked up at the sky, feeling the cool morning air on his face. Deathfang sat near Highrock, trembling with excitement. “Deathfang, you have proved your loyalty to this Clan and have been chosen by StarClan to protect this forest. I have decided that the time has come for you to take your place as a warrior in ThunderClan.”
Deathfang padded over to the foot of the Highrock and looked up at her new leader, her eyes shining. Firestar began to speak the ritual words. “I, Firestar, leader of ThunderClan, call upon my warrior ancestors to look down on this warrior. She has come to understand the ways of your noble code, and I commend her to you as a warrior in her turn.”
Firestar lowered his gaze and met Deathfang’s bright eyes. “Deathfang, do you promise to uphold the warrior code and to protect and defend this Clan, even at the cost of your life?”
“Och, Ah do,” Deathfang said, sincerely meaning it. She vowed to be loyal to her new Clan. She would protect this forest and avenge herself and her father by slaying her brother. But now she would do it for her Clan, not just for herself.
Firestar swallowed, tears gathering in his eyes as he saw the absolute joy in Deathfang’s tortured eyes. She at last had a home and friends who would love her!
“Then by the powers of StarClan, I give you your warrior name. Deathfang, your name is a reminder of your terrible life in the north. From this moment you will be known as Warriorheart. StarClan honors your courage and strength, and we welcome you as a full warrior of ThunderClan. The fangs of death hide the warrior’s heart.”
The ThunderClan cats gathered around as Firestar put his muzzle on Warriorheart’s head, having to stand on tip paws to reach the top of her brow. The Clan cats began chanting the new warrior’s name, “Warriorheart! Warriorheart! The fangs of death hide the warrior’s heart!”
The newly named Warriorheart smiled, then threw back her head and let out a yowl of pure triumph. The other cats joined her, lending their voices to the joyous din. Soon the air was filled with the sound of the strong voices of cats, letting all know that they had the great warrior of the forest on their side!
Brightheart, after the ceremony crowd had broken up, walked up to Firestar and asked anxiously, “Have you seen Cloudtail? He went out looking for Snowhawk and never came back. Neither did Snowhawk. I’m worried.”
Warriorheart overheard, and came up to join Firestar and Brightheart. Brightheart’s injuries never seemed to bother Warriorheart the way it bothered other outsiders. Cats who had never met Brightheart always felt uncomfortable, but Warriorheart had probably lived among cats with disfigured faces before.
“Ah’ll go look for ‘em,” she said. Firestar stopped her, “But you have to keep vigil tonight!”
“Ah’ll be leavin’ taenight. StarClan ‘as sent me on a quest. But Ah’ll find Snowhawk an’ Cloudtail first, ye ken.”
Firestar was confused, but he dared not disobey StarClan. They would understand about the vigil. The quest was more important.
Warriorheart set off after Cloudtail’s scent trail. She was an expert scout. She followed the scent trail until it joined up with Snowhawk’s. Warriorheart was distressed to see that it was very near the northern cats’ camp. She prayed silently that they were both safe. If Doomeye had caught up with them…
Warriorheart stopped short. She smelled Doomeye’s scent here! Up ahead, she saw two white forms lying on the ground. She sprinted forward, heedless of a patch of nettles that she bounded through, not feeling the stings. She leaned over the two bodies and felt them in a panic. She gave out a sigh of pure relief. They were both alive, but Cloudtail was wounded badly. Snowhawk was simply unconscious. Doomeye had misjudged his claws. He had slashed Snowhawk’s scruff and thought it was his neck, but it was only enough to make Snowhawk faint from blood loss. Cloudtail was in worse condition. Doomeye’s claws had grazed Cloudtail’s spine, and now he was rendered motionless.
Warriorheart knew that she needed to get the two back to the camp. She slung them both over her back, and even weighted down by both big male cats, Warriorheart set off at a full sprint all the way back to camp, leaping over tree roots and miniature ravines. At last, she raced through the tunnel and entered the camp. She pushed through the crowd of inquisitive cats and took Snowhawk and Cloudtail to Cinderpelt. Leaving them with her, Warriorheart went to speak with Firestar.