Green eyes glowed in the darkness and a red tom glanced behind him. His fur prickled as he remembered the dream he had before Amberheart had woken him from it.

It had been dark, he could hear the whisperings of cats but he couldn't see them. It was impossibly quiet as the red tom padded through the darkness. That's when a yowl pierced through the air, a cat screaming in agony. He gazed around as the stench of blood overwhelmed but he couldn't find anything other than a huge bloody paw print and a tuft of bloodsoaked gray fur.

Emberspirit shook himself to get rid of the image, the group was small this time. Greencough had spread through the camp like a storm, Eagleeyes, Rockheart, Gorsekit, and Emberspirits own mother had come down with it. Gorsekit, however, was the worse case and Berrywish now had moved the kit away from everyone else. The toms mother, Lionscar, and Patchfur, along with his sister Goldenkit were all worried.

Lynxstar had told her that she was ready to become an apprentice soon but the golden-brown she-cat retorted that if she were to be apprentice she would be so by her brother's side.

Emberspirit eyed Trouttail, Redmist, Amberheart, Barrantooth, and Nightfrost. Heronpaw and Raggedpaw were bouncing alongside Riverpaw as well.

"Stop worrying," Lynxstars meow made him turn, "We're fine." Her amber eyes shone in the darkness and her muscles rippled underneath her fur as she stalked powerfully towards Greatstones for the Gathering.

Emberspirit wished he could share Lynxstars sureness but he couldn't shake the omen Heatherspirit had told him nor could he shake the leaders words from a quarter-moon ago.

"Tough times are ahead Emberspirit, I of all cats, need you to be the fire that keeps us going."

 He sighed and nodded, "Y-Yes Lynxstar." He murmured as they crossed the bridge.

StormClan was there and Emberspirit felt shock rise in him as he saw Bearclaw standing on leaders rock. He glanced around, noticing Soaringclaw nor Thistlestar was around.

"What in StarClan kits is that idiot doing?" Trouttail snarled, "That's a rock for leaders!"

Lynxstars eyes narrowed and she stalked forward, "Bearclaw, what are you doing?"

The dark tabby turned, "Lynxstar," He dipped his head and as Emberspirit neared he almost gagged at the scent of blood clinging to his fur. "I know this may be strange but soon you will know why I stand before you." He promised, amber eyes glinting.

Emberspirit narrowed his eyes and be looked at his eyes fixing on a gray-black she-cat that he's seen only once before. 

Wolfpaw was her name then but he hadn't been her since Thistlestar announced her dead many, many moons ago.

Next to her, a pale cream she-cat was eyeing Bearclaw with undisguised anger and hatred. As he padded towards her the cream she-cats eyes grew guarded.

"Wolfpaw," Emberspirit mewed, dipping his head. "It has b-been awhile." 

The she-cats brown-amber eyes were dark. "Hello Emberspirit, it's Wolfheart now," She mewed, her long bushy tail twitching. Her gaze was fixed on Bearclaw untrustingly, "How're you?"

Emberspirit blinked, " I'm well, wh-who is this?" He nodded to the cream she-cat.

"I'm Peachfur," The she-cat meowed, "I used to be a kitty-pet but now I'm a StormClan warrior." Her blue eyes blazed with determination and Emberspirit felt a flash of admiration for this StormClan cat. "You're the deputy of DeltaClan aren't you?"

Emberspirit nodded, "Y-Yes, E-Emberspirit." He introduced himself. "W-What's B-Bearclaw-"

A yowl made him look up, Sootstar and Lightningstar were padding towards them.

Wolfheart gestured for Peachfur, "Come on, let's get back to the Clan." She rose, "Goodbye Emberspirit."

The tom rushed and scrambled on top of the Deputystones, nodding to Antclaw who was next to him.

Lightningstar leaped onto the rock, "Bearclaw?" His voice was loud and strong but his ribs jutted out underneath his pelt. "What are you doing?"

The dark brown tabby stalked forward, his amber eyes glowing. Emberspirit eyed him with mistrust and he glanced and saw Wolfheart suppressing a snarl. Peachfur was eyeing the warrior with fear and anger. 

Briefly, Emberspirit wondered if the three had fought but it was derailed as Bearclaws voice rose. 

"Cats of Clans," He started, "it is with great sadness that I tell you that our great leader and deputy were killed by a dog a few days ago." 

Yowls of shock and sorrow rose from every cat in the Clan but Bearclaw rose his paw for silence. 

"StarClan sent Sunpaw a sign that I was to be chosen as StormClans new leader." Emberspirit noticed that the tom looked uncomfortable with a flash of shock Emberspirit realized that the tom had deep claw marks on his flank.

Had the dog gotten him too?

Bearclaw, now Bearstar, continued, "Swiftrunner is our new deputy." He nodded to the black and white tom beneath him. "We also want to welcome Peachfur," His voice hid a snarl, "As a full warrior of StormClan. And we welcome Wolfheart back. Moons ago, Thistlestar announced that she had gone missing and then she was dead but StarClan has guided her back home and StormClan is happy for her return." He finished, dipping his head.

Emberspirit didn't know how happy the leader was in truth, as his eyes locked with Wolfhearts in an unspoken threat. 

The two had definitely fought, but StormClans quarrels were their own. 

Shrugging to dismiss it Emberspirit nodded to Bearstar, "St-StarClan h-honors you." He mewed. He cringed at the blood that stained the rock as the new StormClan leader backed away relishing the welcomes he got. 

Lightningstar now padded forward, "It seems leaf-bare has taken many honorable cats. Cedarstar is dead, he was killed in battle." His voice was low and Emberspirit realized with a flash that the tom was old as well, most cats his age would have already retired as an elder. "He was a noble leader, and I now take his place. BreezeClan welcomes Crowpaw and Berrypaw. Bouncecloud has retired," He nodded to a cream and black tom, "And BreezeClan is getting stronger every day." With that, he backed away.

Lynxstar padded forward, "This leaf-bare has been terrible." She began, "Heatherspirit is dead now, Along with Rumblethroat." Gasps arose and Emberspirit felt a sob rise in his throat. "Our deputy was killed in battle," She tossed a glance towards Bearstar, who stared forward, his ears flicking downward. "Emberspirit has replaced him." She nodded to the tom. Yowls welcomed the new deputy and Emberspirit rose, the moon catching his fur. As the yowls died down, Lynxstar continued. "We welcome two new warriors, Trouttail and Redmist. We have three new apprentices, Heronpaw and Raggedpaw, and Berrywish is now our full medicine cat with her very own apprentice Riverpaw."

Mews of congratulations rose up, Riverpaw straightened as well as the new warriors, but Heronpaw and Raggedpaw seemed to be slightly disoriented by the attention and awkwardly the two straightened. 

"Kits are plentiful and we would like to warn all Clans of dogs." Lynxstar continued, "StormClan has had to deal with them," She nodded to Bearstar who nodded in agreement. 

"Yes." He mewed, "Dogs have frequented our territory as of late, but my warriors will chase them off." 

"Either way," Lynxstars eyes narrowed at his arrogant tone, "dogs are bad news for all Clans." Dipping his head, Emberspirit saw Bearstar mutter something. Lynxstars ear twitched in acknowledgment as she continued, "We hope with the warmer weather coming dog activity and Twoleg activity will cease. DeltaClan is strong and we will not allow trespassers." With that, she backed away and sat down.

Sootstar padded forward, "I almost feel left out," She said jokingly, "I haven't died yet!"

Emberspirit chuckled and the tom heard Crowsong, a very old elder from BreezeClan croak out. "Give it time, compared to me you're young!" 

Sootstar let out a laugh as tension was lost between the Clans. "MarshClan welcomes Snaketail and Ivyfur as new warriors along with Quickpaw and Stonepaw as new apprentices." She nodded to a gray tom with a cream tabby tail as well as a gray she-cat, Quickpaw was a lithe black tom with orange streaks in his fur. Stonepaw was a gray spotted tabby with white paws, her blue eyes were calm and collected. "MarshClan is strong and we thank DeltaClan for its dog warning." She nodded to Lynxstar and Emberspirit heard Bearstar growl quietly but the MarshClan leader had already jumped down from Leadersrock before the new StormClan leader could say anything.

Shrugging, Bearstar jumped down, "StormClan!" He called, "We're leaving." He leads his Clan towards the slope leading to the forest, Lynxstar eyed him as he left.

"Did you notice Wolfheart glaring at him?" She asked Lightningstar. The BreezeClan leader nodded.

"Yes, do you think they quarreled?" His ear twitched.

Lynxstar shrugged, "Bearstar is arrogant and ambitious, I wouldn't be surprised if he used his new leadership as an opportunity to cause trouble, even some in his own Clan, be on the lookout." 

Lightningstar nodded, "If Bearstar gets out of paw, BreezeClan will fight with you." He promised before he yowled. "BreezeClan, we must return home!" He leaped from the rock and led his Clanmates away, his tail held high.

Emberspirit slid from the rocks and winced. His muscles were sore though he was glad that the swelling had gone. He limped over to Trouttail, "S-So, h-how was yo-your f-first G-Gathering a-as a warrior?" He asked, tail twitching.

The tom smiled, "It was great! I met a MarshClan she-cat, Ivyfur and an StormClan elder named Squirrelfoot." His eyes glowed, "She was funny." He glanced over towards where StormClan retreated, "Did you notice how uncomfortable Sunpaw looked?" He mewed, "You'd think that a cat getting such an important sign at such a young age would be leaping in place!" 

Emberspirit shrugged, "M-Maybe h-he was j-just ner-nervous. R-Reading s-signs s-seems hard." He told his former apprentice who seemed to consider it. 

"Still, if I was an medicine cat-" He began loudly, only to get cut off.

"You'd kill everyone!" Amberheart cried from beside a MarshClan warrior. 

Trouttail hissed at her but Emberspirit could tell that it was playful. 

Glancing around at his Clanmates who were sharing stories, wrestling, or sharing tongues with MarshClan, he saw Heronpaw and Redmist standing a bit aways.

Heronpaw was shuffling from one paw to another and Redmists ears were pricked, twitching ever-so-slightly as the apprentice seemed to mumble.

Creeping closer, Emberspirit strained his ears so he could hear.

"...Gay." Heronpaw was saying, "And I know some cats don't like that or think it's weird so I've been quiet about it. That's why it's taken so long..." Her voice trailed and she ducked her head.

Redmist seemed unsure but she nodded, "I think it's fine.. I.." She swallowed, "I must admit I've admired you for a while now. I've seen my brother fawning over you and I thought.." She shook her head, "You're an apprentice, are you sure that you aren't being foolish?"

"You're barely a warrior," Heronpaw snapped but there was a lack of fire or anger in her voice, "I'm sure my feelings aren't misguided. I've thought too much about this Redmist, I want you." Her voice was firm and strong.

There was a silence, and Emberspirit figured he should leave but curiousness kept him rooted in his hiding spot near a bush. 

"I-I want you too." Redmist mewed at last and Emberspirit was pleased to hear certainty in her voice. "Does Trouttail know?"

"Yes, I told him." Heronpaw replied, "So does this mean that we can be together?"

Redmist nodded, "Yes, it does." She mewed.

Emberspirit, feeling satisfied, padded away as Lynxstar, who was next to a senior warrior and Sootstar rose. 

"The moon is sinking, it's time DeltaClan leaves!" She yowled.

Emberspirit turned to Redmist and Heronpaw, who were now pressed against each other. "It's time we leave." He mewed and the two jumped apart, Redmist looking guilty. "Don't worry," His tail twitched, "I heard everything." 

Heronpaws face flushed and Redmist shuffled a bit, looking embarrassed. 

Emberspirit nodded to the two, "I wish you both the happiest." He padded towards Lynxstar who was gathering her cats, MarshClan already funneling towards the Broken Thunderpath. 

The leader was mewing to Nightfrost and Barrantooth as the deputy approached. "Sootstar tells me StormClan attacked their camp and took over a strip of land between their territories. It's a good place to find rabbits and mice." Lynxstar was saying, "She tells me to be on the alert in case Bearstar tries to take back Sunningrocks." 

"I'd like to see them try!" Raggedpaw growled, making Nightfrost shoot him a stern look, which he pointedly ignored. "Those rocks were ours since Deltastar, they've always belonged to us." His tail lashed.

Nightfrost let out a hiss of annoyance but Amberheart chuckled, "Leave him be," She purred at the black senior warrior, "his bravery is to be honored."

The she-cat snorted, "His recklessness will get him in trouble one day." She whipped her tail, "At least his sister shows more sense."

Raggedpaw opened his mouth to retort but a warning look from Emberspirit made him think better of it. 

"L-Leave h-him," Emberspirit told Nightfrost, who watched as the tom stalked away, moving towards Barrantooth who was washing herself a tail-length away. "H-He's a g-good tom." 

Nightfrosts tail flicked, "Either way, he should learn some respect." She hissed. "Warriors earn respect." She made her voice unnecessarily loud and from the corner of his eye, Emberspirit could see Raggedpaw flash her an annoyed look before he continued to talk to Riverpaw.

"What do you think about Bearstar?" Redmist asked Amberheart keenly. For a moment Emberspirit was confused but then he remembered that Redmist used to be Amberhearts apprentice, she would always look out for the golden tabbys advice or guidance. 

The she-cat flicked her tail, casting a glance towards the trees that StormClan disappeared through. "I don't trust him," She meowed, "Neither does a few of his Clanmates." 

Redmist shrugged, "StormClans leader is their problem." She turned to look at Lynxstar, "What do you think?"

"I think it's cold." Lynxstar purred, "Come on, it's time we leave." 

Emberspirit followed her as she trotted away, leaving her tired Clanmates to follow and mumble among themselves. Briefly, the deputy listened to Barrantooth ramble about how it was like in her time. How honorable cats were chosen as leaders. 

"Bearstar killed Rumblethroat." Nightfrost snarled softly, "I'll never forgive him for that. That cat does not deserve his nine lives."

"Let's hope he's satisfied with being leader," Trouttail murmured, tail flicking. "I've always seen the fire of ambition in his eyes when I saw him on patrols or at Gatherings." 

Emberspirit let out a sigh and stopped listening as Amberheart mewed in agreement.

"Believe me, I don't like it either." He looked up, fixing his gaze on his leader. Lynxstars tan pelt glowed silver in the moonlight, her amber eyes glowed like the moon. "But with sickness ravaging the camp we can't afford to pick fights. Besides," She flicked her tail, "StormClans leader is their own problem."  

"B-B-But wh-what if B-Bearstar p-picks a f-fight with u-us?" Emberspirit murmured, "We do-don't h-have e-enough w-warrriors f-for that." 

"Then we'll train new ones." Lynxstar said, training her eyes to her deputy, "The kits are old enough."

"Wh-What about Go-Gorsekit?" Fear made Emberspirits blood run cold as the leaders eyes darkened. She looked forward, not answering his question, her head lowered.

"Sometimes even the best medicine cats can't heal." Lynxstar murmured.

"N-No.." Emberspirit rushed forward, putting himself in front of the tan she-cat with a snarl. "No! W-We must be-believe in him. T-That's th-the only w-way he-he'll recover." He growled, glaring at her with the fur along his neck and spine bristling. 

"What's going on up there?" Amberheart asked as she and the others caught up. Her amber eyes darted between Lynxstar and Emberspirit a few times.

Lynxstar had a shocked expression but she recollected herself and sighed, "Nothing Amberheart," She murmured wearily, "just a disagreement." With that she led them down the hill leading to camp, Emberspirit following.

The red toms paws prickled with guilt and, as the leader padded up the rocks to her den, he called softly. "I'm sorry, I-I just-"

"No, you're right." Lynxstar turned her head to look at him, "Gorsekit needs the strength of his Clanmates if he is to survive." She sighed, "But with leaf-bare clinging to us it's hard to stay optimistic." She shook her head, as though expelling troubling thoughts.

"B-But we must." Emberspirit said softly, looking down, "F-For the g-good o-o-of the Clan w-we must." 

Lynxstar caught his eye and the two cats stared at each other for a long time. Amberheart awkwardly stood in the middle, watching carefully as though ready to stop a fight that never came.

Lynxstar finally nodded, "You're right." She murmured softly with a flick of her tail. Emberspirit blinked and relaxed, behind him he sensed his Clanmates grow restless as they picked up on the fight that almost came. 

Lynxstar nodded to them, "You all go eat and sleep." She ordered, her clouded amber eyes clearing. She regained her normal sense of authority along with her normal sense of humor. 

"It's too cold." Barrantooth growled as she padded towards the medicine cat den.

"Maybe for a bag of bones like you." Lynxstar purred as she bumped her Clanmates shoulder with her head. "Come on Barrantooth, I'll walk you." She followed the dusky brown she-cat while the others dispersed, some heading to sleep while a few snatched small catches.

Emberspirit gazed at the pile and noticed a few frost-bitten mice and vole. Making a mental note to get the apprentice to sort out the pile he moved his way to the Warriors den when he caught sight of Patchfur near the Nursery entrance, gazing at the Medicine den with a look of sorrow and longing.

Beelining towards the she-cat, Emberspirit snatched a fat salmon and dropped it in front of Patchfur. Goldenkit was curled up next to her, asleep, her golden-brown tabby coat shining in the moonlight. 

"Thank you.." Patchfur mumbled as she ripped a piece of flesh off of the fish and began to eat. 

Emberspirit took one or two mouthfuls before asking, "W-Worried?"

"He's gotten worse," Patchfurs eyes darkened, "He has Greencough." She mewed.

Emberspirit felt his fur bristle at the sound of the evil disease responsible for killing Missingfluff and many more. "W-What?"

Patchfur closed her eyes, "He can't even walk anymore and he's just fur and bones now. How can StarClan take one so young from me?" She sounded as though she wanted to wail, but her voice seemed to fail as she trembled. Tears rolled down her face as she sobbed quietly. "Not my little Gorsekit."

Emberspirit craned his neck and touched his nose to hers. "Gorsekit isn't going to die." He said firmly, making Patchfurs eyes widen. "W-We nee-need to b-believe that. H-He needs t-the strength o-of h-h-his Clan if h-he is going to recover." 

The mourning queen didn't answer, but she still ate, then she nodded slowly, agreeing with the deputy's words. Satisfied, Emberspirit stood and padded towards the cave. He brushed the reed woven to protect the dens entrance and laid down next to Lilycloud.

She sleepily nuzzled close to him, "Hey..." she whispered.

"Hey.." Emberspirit purred as she moved her head under his and pressed closer to her warmth. 

The scent of flowers overwhelmed the toms senses, lulling him into the blackness that was sleep.

Emberspirit let out a yowl, around him he saw his Clanmates fighting but what they were fighting wasn't seen. One by one his Clan was killed, laying in the black grass limp and lifeless.

The tom turned tail and ran, willing his Clanmates to follow but they too got swallowed by the darkness. 

Fear made Emberspirit faster and lighter on his feet, he weaved between obstacles that seemed to form out of nothing. His ears rang, his paws hurt, but he kept running before something made him stop.

Why was he running? 

He turned and gazed at the darkness rushing after him and sudden anger sparked through his pelt like a lightning bolt. This thing killed his Clanmates, the cats he loved! 

With a roar, Emberspirit flung himself at the black mass, feeling the strength of StarClan go with him. As soon as he touched the blackness it erupted in a blinding flash of fire. 

Opening his eyes, he looked around, seeing Heatherspirit gazing at him with glowing blue eyes. "You will lose many," She murmured, her voice filled with the wisdom she had when she lived. "but nothing is more important than your Clan. Remember that, Emberspirit." 

Something cold splashed on Emberspirits face and he flinched. The ice that had formed on the top of the cave was thawing, making his fur damp. 

Wait it was thawing. It was thawing! 

Rejuvinated, Emberspirit scrambled up, rushing outside the den and was shocked to see that the frost everywhere was beginning to melt. The sun beamed down on the camp and he found himself grinning.

"Newleaf is coming!" He yowled, his heart filling with hope. 

Lionscar, who was guarding camp along with Antbranch, padded into the camp. "And Gorsekits fever broke last night!" He purred, "He was even able to eat a fish." 

Emberspirit gazed at the brown tabby, whose amber eyes were glowing with tiredness and relief, in happy shock. "That's great!" He purred before he flicked his ear towards the warrior den, "Go rest. You've been up all night." 

Antbranch nodded and disappeared into the den as other cats filed out, heading towards the fresh-kill pile while Thunderjaw led Hailwhisker and Willowcoat out on a hunting patrol that Emberspirit had set up before the Gathering. 

"Who do you think should be Gorsekits mentor?" Lionscar asked, ear twitching. 

Emberspirits eyes wondered around as his Clanmates woke and relished the sunlight that had been so sparce the past moons. 

"You'll.. find o-out soon e-enough." He promised, "I-I'm going to c-check on G-Gorsekit." He gave a respectful nod to Lionscar, all while keeping the air of a deputy. The brown tom dipped his head and padded towards the warriors den, his shoulders sagging in exhaustion. 

The DeltaClan tom padded into the medicine cat den, stopping as Lynxstar came out, a relieved look on her face. He made a noise of greeting and she grinned at him, tears in her eyes.

"You were right," Lynxstar murmured, "All he needed was the strength of his Clan." She leaned forward and touched the red toms nose with her own. "I'm proud to call you my deputy." 

Too choked with emotion, Emberspirit dipped his head, unable to make a sound as Lynxstar brushed pass him, moving towards Swiftwhisper and Darkpoppy. 

Emberspirit watched her before he ducked into the den smiling as he saw Gorsekit flailing around, Patchfur licking his face with the look only a mother who almost lost her kit could pull.

"I'm hungry!" Gorsekit cried out, his tiny, skinny body trembling with the effort. 

Berrywish purred in amusement, "He recovered." The gray she-cat purred, looking towards Emberspirit. "His fever broke last night, all thanks too Riverpaw." She nodded to the gray she-cat who looked exhausted but relieved. "She fought StarClan themselves to keep this kit alive."

Emberspirit couldn't stop the purr that rose in his throught, "It-It's ab-about t-time sh-she gets h-her fu-full name." He murmured without thinking.

Riverpaw snapped her head up at that, opening her mouth but Berrywish rose her tail. 

"Yes.." She purred, gazing at her apprentice with proud green eyes. "It is." 

Riverpaw seemed to choke with emotion but she nodded, her eyes filled with more gratitude and emotion than words could ever describe and she dipped her head as tears fell from her eyes. 

"I'd call her Riverheart, she was brave to go against what everyone thought was StarClans will." Patchfur purred from where she was washing Gorsekit, who had quieted for once. 

Emberspirit padded over to Gorsekit, "You were brave." He murmured softly, making the black and white tom look up. The stench of sickness still clung to his fur but he his eyes were bright. "W-When B-Berrywish g-gives the ok-okay, you w-will be m-made an a-a-apprentice." He promised.

Gorsekits eyes widened with delight, "I'm gonna be an apprentice!" He cried, bouncing in place. "I'm gonna train to be a warrior!"

Patchfur purred, "So long as you listen and stay inside while you recover!" She chided, making her kit grin sheepishly. 

Barrantooth, who was eating a fish, looked up. "Come here Gorsekit, you can share this fish with me."

The tom let out a happy squeal and rushed over to where the elder laid with the medicine cats. 

Emberspirit craned his neck and licked Riverpaws ear, "T-Thank you." 

The she-cat purred and moved towards her nest, curling up.

"Okay, Gorsekit is getting better but the others are not.." Berrywish murmured, she glanced at Emberspirit, "Your mother is one of them."

Worry and fear for his mothers health made Emberspirits fur bristle, "W-Will sh-she be ok-okay?" He asked, his voice in a raised octave. 

Berrywish seemed to hesitate before she nodded, "I'm trying my best." She told him.

Though her voice was reassuring, Emberspirit couldn't help but remember Heatherspirits words. 

You will lose many, but nothing is more important than your Clan. Remember that, Emberspirit.

His blood ran cold as he the thought of losing his mother swam into his head but the thought was scrambled like a bunch of rats as the deputy in him stepped forward. 

"H-How many ar-are sick?" He asked, "W-We sh-should mo-move them aw-away from camp." 

Berrywish was nodding, "Redflare, Rockheart, and Eagleeyes." She told him, "I was thinking of bringing them to the Great Willow, there a hollow inside of its trunk that'll be warm."

Emberspirit nodded, he had seen it in the thick trunk of the huge willow tree. It was a good place to find mice who liked to gnaw on the leaves that draped to close to the ground. "T-That'll work." 

The medicine rose, "I'll get Darkrunner and Pikesky to help me move them. Riverpaw will take care of them."

Emberspirits fur prickled uncomfortably, "A-Alone?" Once again the thought of losing his mother arose but Berrywish flashed him a sharp look.

"Yes, alone." She mewed firmly, all at once the faith the white medicine cat had in her apprentice smacked Emberspirit in a wave. Respect and admiration for this old she-cat made Emberspirit disregard his worries. 

"Alright.." He mewed softly, "A-Alright," He repeated louder, "T-That'll be f-fine."

Berrywish's whiskers twitched before her eyes softened and she touched the toms ear with her soft nose. "Whatever happens Emberspirit, know that StarClan is with you." 

Emberspirit froze as the she-cat padded past him. Had she known of his dream? Did she know of the constant omens that plagued Emberspirit his entire life? Questions without answers bubbled in the deputys head and no matter how much he tried to shake them off they only increased with new vigor. 

"You look like you need something off your mind." He jumped and looked up, his heart soaring as he recognized Wildclaw.

His patchy ginger-and-white coat was slightly damp, "The frost is thawing." He mewed, "Everyone's bedding is damp. I've gotten the kits to help the apprentices renew them." He nodded towards Heronpaw and Raggedpaw, who led Goldenkit, Reedkit, Barkkit, and Nutkit inside the camp, all holding large wads of moss. They tossed the pieces into a larger pile and left again. 

Emberspirit nodded gratefully, "T-That'll keep them b-busy." 

Wildclaw smiled, "Come on," He padded towards the entrance of camp, "let's take a walk." 

Emberspirit hesitated, glancing towards Lilycloud who was sharing tongues with Deertail. 

"The sunhigh patrol left and Lilycloud is going to lead a hunting patrol soon." Wildclaw told him, "You won't be needed anytime soon. Come on, you need a break." 

Sighing in defeat, Emberspirit followed the tom outside of camp, nodding to Raggedpaw and Heronpaw as he passed before the two warriors stepped out into the open territory. 

A rush of exhilaration flashed through Emberspirit, making his paws and heart feel lighter. He rushed up the hill with blinding speed, Wildclaw on his heels.

"See! You've been cooped up in your deputyship, you need time to be a warrior for once." Wildclaw called, grinning slightly. Emberspirit purred and followed him towards Fallenrocks. 

"So, what's on your mind?" Wildclaw asked, leaping onto one of the gray boulders and flopping onto his stomach, stretching lazily across its gray surface.

Emberspirit hesitated as he remembered his horrid dream the night previously before the Gathering. In one breath, he told the ginger and white tom everything. The omens floating above his head, the dreams of StarClan warriors coming to him, the dark dreams that plagued him, even about the dream he had that very morning.

You will lose many, but nothing is more important than your Clan. Remember that, Emberspirit.  

The dark words came back to him, making is fur shiver as he remembered a tuft of bloodsoaked gray fur. Was that an omen of one of the cats he was destined to lose? 

Would it happen today? Tomorrow? In a moon?

Wildclaw eyed him for a few shocked moments before he rose slowly. "Oh Emberspirit..." He murmured softly, "I had no idea you've had to suffer so much." He leaned forward and touched his nose to the aforementioned. 

"I d-d-don't kn-know what it all means." Emberspirit murmured miserably, "A-Am I destined t-to lose e-everyone I-I love?" He thought of losing his mother, his dear friend Pikesky, his former apprentice Trouttail, his... his mate. Bile rose in his throat as he pictured having to bury his precious Lilycloud and he violently shook himself. 

"The life of a deputy and leader can be rough," Wildclaw told him, pale green eyes glowing with sympathy. "I have no idea what it must be like in your paws Emberspirit but Heatherspirit is a wise cat. What she told you is true, you may watch your Clanmates die and yes it will be hard." The former BreeezeClan warrior moved next to Emberspirit, wrapping his tail around the smaller, yet taller, warriors haunches. "But your Clan as a whole is what matters, you must get past losing a single cat and be the light that your Clanmates look towards for guidance and wisdom." He gazed at him with round eyes, "Cedarstar he... he was like that. He lost his mate and his kit," His voice was choked with emotion, "But he never let that get in the way. He never let that stop him from being a noble and amazing leader." 

Emberspirit closed his eyes, "I-If only I had h-half t-the n-nobility as him." He murmured, pressing close to the tom he had grown to think of as a father.

"You remind me so much of your mother," Wildclaw purred, "Both of you let your own thoughts get to you. But when you both come through when it really matters. Like fire you blaze in the darkest night, warming and protecting your Clan." 

Emberspirit nodded shakily, Wildclaws words had soothed him but the tuft of fur lingered in the back of his mind. Where had he seen fur like that? So familiar, so soothing..

"Emberspirit!" He jumped as a yowl made his fur stand on end. He looked up and saw Hailwhisker running towards him, fur bristling. "Bearstar is at Sunningrocks!" She panted, "He wants Lynxstar." 

Wildclaw let out a snarl, "Lynxstar is busy with the sick cats, she's helping Berrywish move them." He turned to Emberspirit, "I'll gather a patrol to meet you there." 

Emberspirit nodded, "I'll t-try to h-hold off t-the fight." He told the tom before he nodded to Hailwhisker. The gray she-cat led the deputy through the forest and across the river. Hailwhisker took position next to her mate, Raggedpaw and Heronpaw, along with Darkpoppy, Quailfleck, Tigershade, and Brightnose were standing in a line, all glaring at Bearstar, who was sitting on the ledge, his deputy next to him and a patrol of cats behind him. Emberspirit saw Wolfheart there, eyeing the DeltaClan cats with a neutral look.

"Emberspirit," Bearstar growled, "Why have you come instead of Lynxstar?" His amber eyes glowed, "Is she too weak?"

Around him, his Clanmates snarled but Emberspirit stalked forward, jumping up the ledge causing the StormClan leader to leap back in surprise. He shoved his muzzle in the brown tom's face, snarling. "D-DeltaClans leader is n-not weak." He growled, anger making him flex his claws, "S-Say she is t-to my face." 

Bearstars eyes narrowed and he puffed out his chest and glared at the DeltaCLan deputy. "Thistlestar was weak to give up these rocks." He growled, "It is time they be marked rightfully with StormClan scent." 

"DeltaClan has always owned the rocks!" Brightnose yowled, "Stormstar gave them to us!" 

"Then Stormstar was weak!" Bearstar roared, and Emberspirit noticed Swiftrunner glance at his leader uneasily. "StormClan is the strongest, therefore we will crush our enemies and rule the forest." He snarled, bloodthirst in his amber eyes. "Even if we have to mark our borders with blood." 

Emberspirit felt his fur prickle as he stared at the leader, who took his silence for weakness. "I have the blessing of nine lives, do you really think you can defeat me?" He growled.

Emberspirit met his gaze levelly, "No." He said in a surprisingly calm voice, making the StormClan leader flicker in shock, "But that doesn't mean I won't try." He rose, letting the sun catch his fur making it shimmer and show off his muscles. "If you want these rocks you'll have to fight!" His voice echoed, seemingly rattling the forest itself. 

Behind the powerful deputy's voice, DeltaClan stalked forward, growls rumbling in their throats, eyes glinting. 

Bearstar eyed him uncertainly, as though he had expected to gain this territory without a fight. His tail flicked, and his Clanmates shuffled uneasily as they watched their leader for guidance. 

That's when Swiftrunner spoke, "Bearstar, this isn't a battle that needs to be fought." He mewed, brown eyes sweeping the DeltaClan cats. "We are not as well fed as they."

"Then isn't that more reason to take this territory?" Bearstar growled, "We will fight for this territory, that is my will." 

Swiftrunner eyed his leader for a few moments, Emberspirit could see that the tom wanted to argue but his loyalty to the warrior code and in turn, his leader, outweighed it.

Emberspirit frowned as Bearstar drew himself up, "Turn back now." He snarled, "This territory belongs to StormClan."

Emberspirit glanced back at his Clanmates, all ready to fight on his behalf. His blood ran cold as he remembered his dream. Was this what the omen was warning him about? Once again that tuft of fur came back to him.

No, Emberspirit roused himself, "We will not back down." He growled. "If you want this land you'll have to fight for it." He snarled, drawing himself up.

Bearstar eyed him with a cruel smirk, "Then so be it." With a roar, the tom exploded forward, Emberspirit twisted onto his back as Bearstar leaped at him, around him he heard StormClan leading down the rock ledges and his Clanmates meet them with yowls and hisses. 

He kicked up his hind paws and Bearstar was propelled down the rocks, he let out a cry of pain as he landed hard on his side. Emberspirit leaped down to face him, hissing with rage. 

The tom snarled as Tigershade leaped onto his back. Emberspirit moved to help his Clanmate when claws on his haunches made him yelp in pain. He spun around, taking his paw with him and landed a heavy blow to Swiftrunners cheek. Blood exploded from the wound, soaking the DeltaClan deputy's claws and pads. 

"Leave." Emberspirit growled as Swiftrunner was dazed, "You know this battle was never to be fought." 

Swiftrunner gazed at him with narrowed brown eyes, "But it's a battle I must fight." He snarled before he leaped. Emberspirit let out a pained howl as Swiftrunners teeth sunk into his chest. 

Battering the toms ears, Emberspirit lashed around, managing to free himself from the black and white toms sharp teeth. The red tom leaped and twisted, landing on Swiftrunners back. He churned his hind paws and gasped as the StormClan deputy rolled, crushing the air from his lungs. 

He was pinned to the cold stone, Swiftrunner above him snarling. Emberspirit knew that if this battle was to be won, one of them would have to die. He could see that the StormClan deputy knew the same thing, because he hesitated, his brown eyes searching green.

"May StarClan light your path." He growled before he brought his paw down to slice Emberspirits throat. At the same moment, Emberspirt lurched to one side, gritting his teeth as sharp claws tore open his shoulder before he surged forward, teeth latching onto Swiftrunners throat, his front claws digging into his stomach. 

Heaving the tom off, Emberspirit stood shocked as the StormClan deputy collapsed, gurgling in his own blood. 

Emberspirit lowered his head, gazing into Swiftrunners eyes. Swiftrunner gazed at him with wide eyes before the light seeped away. He flailed for a few heartbeats longer before he stilled. 

Emberspirit, despite himself, felt the mournful wail catch in his throat. He licked the deputy's eyes shut for the last time and touched his ear. "Y-You o-only d-did that y-you ha-had to." He murmured, "S-StarClan w-will a-accept you." 

Backing away, Emberspirit glanced around his fighting Clanmates. He glanced up at saw more StormClan cats launching themselves into the battle. 

He yowled in warning but it was drowned out as he heard Wildclaws war cry, the ginger tom leaping into the fray with Deertail, Lilycloud, Darkrunner, Lionscar, Amberheart, and Pikesky. 

Pikesky moved forward standing by Emberspirits side, "Think you can have all the fun?" He teased as Emberspirit noticed Oakspeck and Fuzzytail barreling towards them.

"C-Course not!" He cried before he leaped forward, lashing out at Oakspeck before he retreated back, Pikesky moving forward at the same time. Fuzzytail snarled and tried to help but Wildclaw leaped onto him and wrestled him over a few tail-lengths away. 

Together with his friend by his side, Emberspirit drove back the thick-furred brown she-cat who let out a hiss and retreated back up the ledge. 

Emberspirit glanced around, noticing that now the DeltaClan cats outnumbered the StormClan cats. "Th-Their retreating!" He cried happily when a blood-curdling yowl made his fur stand on end. 

That was the cry he heard in his dream. 

Whirling around he saw Deertail on the large fallen rock that was responsible for the murder of the ancient RiverClan deputy Oakheart, teetering on the ledge. 

Oakstripe was in front of her, patches of fur missing and his eye swollen shut. Blood soaked his fur and poured from wounds but he let out a yowl. "No!" And lunged forward but it was to late, Deertail lost her footing and dropped, her face slamming onto a rock down below. 

Emberspirit cried out and accelerated forward, skidding to a stop in front of his former mentor. That's why he recognized the tuft of her, it was hers! How could he have been so stupid? 

"Deertail..." He whined, nosing her, "Deertail!" 

The she-cat opened one of her golden eyes, gazing at Emberspirit with unrequited love and pride. "Oh, Emberspirit... you've grown." 

The toms paws felt frozen on the ground, a lump in his throat. A flowery scent washed over him and he looked over at Lilycloud helplessly, his pupils wide and filled with tears and blood. 

"J-Just hold on." He sobbed, nosing Deertails cheek, "Y-You'll b-be okay." 

Deertail laughed slightly, "Oh Emberspirit, there's so much I've wanted to tell you. The times of your apprenticeship were the best I've ever had," Her voice grew soft and wistful, a smile on her face. "I've watched you teach your own apprentice, he's grown into such a good warrior. So much like you.." Her eyes grew cloudy. "Oh, my kits.. Emberspirit please watch over them." 

Emberspirit trembled in pace as Lilycloud pressed against him, "Y-You w-watch ov-over them yo-yourself!" He cried, "I don't..." He felt as helpless as he did when Heatherspirit died. The same pitiful wail threatened to overtake him but he choked it down. 

"Be brave Emberspirit.." Deertail murmured, "You will see so much death in your nine lives.." She closed her eyes, "But you must always keep a clear head. Or else you'll go insane." 

Emberspirit didn't try to stop the tears that flowed, he moved forward and licked his mentors fur. "I-I'll be b-brave for you." He promised, touching her nose. Memories of doing this at his ceremony, memories of hunting, fishing, swimming, training. All of that came rushing back to him and surprisingly it brought him comfort. Even with the realization that it would all be gone, it brought him comfort. 

Deertail smiled and licked his nose, "I love you as though you were my own son Emberspirit." She purred, "Take care of my mate and kits.."

"I-I will." Emberspirit felt dull as Deertail stilled, going as gracefully and beautifully as she lived. 

Lilycloud stared in dismay before she looked at her mate. "Her wisdom will always be remembered." She murmured, touching his cheek with a soft nose. 

Emberspirit hunched over his fallen mentor before he looked up, glaring at Oakstripe who was frozen still, gazing over the ledge with wide amber eyes. 

The tom met his eye and instantly turned tail, recognizing the anger that burned in those emerald depths. 

Emberspirit stood, his wound stung painfully but it only served to give him energy, "T-This is all B-Bearstars fault." He snarled, making Lilycloud shiver in shock. "I'm g-going to end t-this." Not listening as Lilycloud made a sound of protest he rushing into the raging battle. He dodged cats left and right before he caught sight of Bearstar, who was slinking in the shadows on a few tall rocks. His ear was badly torn, his cheek was torn open and blood soaked his pelt. He had a long wound on his shoulder and flank and his chest was bleeding heavily. 

With a roar, Emberspirit tackled him, sending the two spiraling behind them in a protected cove. The DeltaClan tom scrambled to his paws and leaped at Bearstar, flicking out lightning fast attacks.

The StormClan leader cried as his face was clawed open before he ducked and rolled. The brown tom lunged at Emberspirit and the two wrestled, both fueled by anger and bitterness from the past that now had bubbled up to a high. 

Emberspirit growled as his chest was clawed and pushed the tom away as he tried to end the DeltaClan deputy's life. He swung his hind paw up and sliced open his belly. Bearstar hissed in pain and softened his grip, allowing Emberspirit to roll out from under him. 

Hooking his claws in the massive brown toms shoulders he pinned him to the ground and sunk his teeth into the back of his neck. This wasn't going to end until one lay dead and Emberspirit was not going to let Deertails death be in vain. 

Bearstar lashed his head around, not letting Emberspirit get that death blow. He heaved himself up and headbutted Emberspirit, dazing him.

The tom stumbled back, stars dancing in the back of his eyes as his head was wracked with pain. 

Bearstar spat with anger, "You think you can defeat me? I'm a leader with nine lives." He snarled, lunging forward and dragging his claws along Emberspirits flank. The red tom yelped as Bearstar crashed his weight onto his shoulders, getting pinned under the massive tom. 

He almost puked at the stench of blood and death that clung to Bearstars brown fur but he wasn't going to be silent now. "N-None of w-which you d-deserve!" He spat, using the last of his strength and flail in an attempt to get free but Bearstar had him. 

"Just like a mouse." Bearstar snarled. "StormClan will rule the forest, even StarClan will bow down to me." He sounded insane, his voice in a low growl. "Warriors that are blessed by StarClan get everything handed to them," His voice was bitter, "but those who StarClan ignores are the ones who will make themselves noticed. One way or another." He cackled and Emberspirit felt sick as he realized the implications. 

Those chosen by StarClan will get fame, while those who aren't will be remembered by how they are. 

And Bearstar will be remembered as a bloody pawprint in StormClans history. 

"So wh-what?" Emberspirit managed to say, "Y-You st-started w-with Rumble-Rumblethroat?"

Bearstar laughed, "Oh naive idiot, who says it started with a different Clan?" Emberspirits eyes widened, "Yes, I killed my own and you know why?" Thorn sharp claws dug into Emberspirits shoulders, "Because I was ignored by StarClan despite me being the strongest. They blessed a cat weaker than I, a prophecy of a great leader, and Thistlestar instantly bowed to them. My chance was ripped from me!" His voice rose into a roar of pure rage and hatred. "But," His voice grew soft, "No matter. After today none of it will matter. And this dirty little secret will be just that." He cackled evilly, a deep sinister sound. "Say hi to that StarClan of yours Emberspirit." 

Emberspirit closed his eyes, expecting pain but it never came. He heard a yowl and screech above him before the scent of fresh blood made him open his eyes. 

Wolfheart was locked in a battle with Bearstar, both brutally strong as they fought for the upper hand. 

"I won't let you kill one more soul!" Wolfheart spat as he lurched back. Bearstar stumbled and Emberspirit winced as the she-cat took no time at slice his chest, as he tucked his chin. 

The red tom wanted to help but he was too weak so all he could too was press to the rock and watch like a helpless victim.

Bearstar let out a roar, "You took everything from me!" He retorted, leaping on to her, "Power! Respect! Cherryblossom!" The two wrestled before Wolfheart untangled herself, her tail lashing.

"I took her?" Wolfheart snarled with wide eyes, "You took her from me! You lied and she fell in love, then you killed her!" She roared, leaping at him. She unleashed a flurry of attacks, "You liar!" She cried, "You murderer!" Another hit, "You fox-hearted traitor!" She ducked down and lunged up, fastening her teeth onto his throat. 

Bearstar managed to unhinge himself and stumbled back, chest heaving. 

"I didn't take anything." Wolfheart growled blood splattered across her coat. She faired her wounds, all deep and painful, but still, she stood strong. "You took everything from me. You took my best friend, you took Clan, you took the life of the leader and deputy who I respected." She glared at him. "You took Adderblaze." Bearstar cringed at the name and stumbled. Wolfheart glared at him for a heartbeat before she peeled her lips back and lunged. 

Bearstar met her and for a moment, Emberspirit was worried that the brown tom had won, but as the tom made a keen of agony and fell back, the DeltaClan cat knew that the worry was unnecessary.

Wolfheart rose and watched as Bearstar convulsed, one... two...three..four..five...six...seven...eight...nine times. Then, the tyrannical murderer lay dead. 

Emberspirit felt no triumph, not now that he knew the horror of Bearstars treachery. He limped forward, his eyes fixed on Wolfheart.

"I was the cat that took his opportunity. So he got rid of me." Wolfheart murmured, her brown-amber eyes fixed on the limp tom. "A prophecy that I never wanted." She gave a bitter laugh, "Nine lives gone to waste." 

Emberspirit could relate, "I-I know wha-what th-thats like." He told her, making her look up. She looked like she wanted to snap but once she gazed into his eyes, she fell silent. "T-To be d-destined f-for something l-l-larger th-than y-you thin-think you a-are." He gazed around, "B-But a c-cat tol-told me l-long ago t-that l-life is short.. w-why waste h-half o-of it wondering h-how I-I got here." 

Wolfheart gazed at him silently, "Sometimes the world just seems so big that it's hard to know I have a place in it at all." She whispered.

"I-If S-StarClan chose y-you it's b-because you d-deserve it." Emberspirit told her firmly before he heard a yowl.

"Bearstar is gone!" 

Wolfheart flashed Emberspirit a look and together to two dragged the tom into the middle of the fight.

StormClan cats yowled abuse at the DeltaClan cats and the DeltaClan cats yowled abuse at the StormClan cats. 

"Stop!" Sunpaws voice made them all look up. The golden tom jumped down and froze when he saw Bearstars body. "He's dead? He's dead! Thank StarClan!" He gasped in relief.

"What?" Fuzzytail growled, "Why thank StarClan?"

"Bearstar was never meant to lead this Clan." Sunpaw mewed loudly, "All he's done is lead us into battles and turmoil. This is not what StarClan wanted. They sent me a sign when Thistlestar and Soaringclaw died. The wind howled like a wolf, the sign meant that Wolfheart was to be the leader of StormClan." The small apprentice trembled, "But when Bearstar found out he attacked me, made me tell that it was truly the roar of a bear that I heard on the wind." 

"But why?" Flamepaw moved forward, "Bearstar would never do that!"

Wolfheart met the toms grief-stricken gaze, "Bearstar is responsible for the deaths of his Clanmates and the deaths of many Clan cats. I will tell you all the story of his treachery, but now it is time for us to head home and heal."

"Who will be leader?" Loudstep asked worriedly.

Emberspirit felt his Clan murmur restlessly as the StormClan cats fretted when his ear twitched.

He heard a sound, a very faint sound, on the wind.

"Listen!" Sunpaw cried, looking up.

In a collective silence, the two Clans listened as they heard a howl, it sounded like a dog but wilder. It was a sad, mournful cry, but it also promised a future. 

"A wolf's cry." Emberspirit heard himself say.

All eyes turned towards Wolfheart, who gazed back uncertainly. 

"I left StormClan and came back with a kittypet," She mewed, tail flicking. "I was a coward, how can you trust me?"

A hush fell over StormClan as they shared doubt. Sunpaw was the first to mew, "StarClan chose you, Wolfheart. How can we, Clan cats, refuse the will of StarClan. Peachfur is an amazing warrior and she-cat, she's not the kittypet some scorned her to be."

A gray-black tom that looked strikingly like Wolfheart padded forward, "Wolfheart," He mewed, his eyes soft. "I was stupid to let you be chase away. I should have listened, I should have seen.." He closed his eyes, his voice taut with emotion. "I've been such a bad brother." 

Wolfhearts eyes widened, "Oh Ravenflight," She murmured, pressing her muzzle to his. "You've never been a bad littermate. Any cat is lucky to have you.. I'm lucking to have you." 

A smaller she-cat, a sister to Ravenflight and Wolfheart as she looked exactly like them, padded forward. "I should have said something." She mewed, "I've been a horrible sister."

Wolfheart gazed at her softly, "You did what you could Nightlily, thank you so much." 

The she-cat pressed against her sister and the three of them shared a silent vigil. Sunpaw padded forward, breaking the touching moment between siblings.

"Wolfheart," His voice was strong and surprisingly older than his looks. "StarClan has chosen you to be our next leader, do you accept their will?" His eyes twinkled and Emberspirit was shocked at the endless wisdom in his eyes. 

Lucky she is, He thought, he's going to make a sound medicine cat one day. 

Wolfheart hesitated for a few moments before she finally nodded, "If you wish me to lead, I will lead." Her limbs shivered from apprehension.

Fuzzytail was the first to speak, "Wolfheart, StormClan will accept you." He promised, "But what are we going to do about Flamepaw? He will need a new mentor."

Wolfheart eyed him for a few moments, "I will mentor him." She mewed carefully, "I know Bearstar was not the kindest mentor but he never showed malicious intent for his apprentice. His teeth may be sharp, his claws may be even more so, but his heart will run true."

Flamepaw blinked, "Bearstar taught me that to win you much do whatever it takes." His amber eyes closed, "But today I learned what than can do to a cat." He gazed down at his fallen mentor and former leader, "I will always owe him, but I will never respect him."

Emberspirit prayed the tom meant his words as his Clanmates make murmurs of agreement. Fuzzytail licked his ear, mumbling something before Loudstep moved forward. 

"Who will be deputy?" 

Wolfheart hesitated, glancing at Emberspirit. "If you were in my Clan, I wouldn't hesitate to make you deputy." She whispered as she padded up to him. "Can you be in my Clan? I could use your guidance." She looked up into his eyes but Emberspirit only shook his head.

"I-I'm humbled." He told her, "B-But my C-Clan needs me. I-I will a-always b-be here i-in times o-of need." He promised, "I-If I w-w-were you I'd p-pick someone o-older. You-You will n-need the-their wisdom."

Wolfheart blinked, "Fuzzytail," She called, the russet toms ears pricking in shock as she turned towards him. "I can think of no cat who deserves it more than you. You are one of the wisest cats I know and you are kind. I will need you."

Fuzzytail swelled with pride, "I will serve you well. That I can promise." He purred.

Wolfheart nodded swiftly before she turned to Emberspirit, "Take your Clan home. Sunningrocks will be yours, this was a pointless battle, one that cost us more than it was worth." As her eyes locked with the DeltaClan deputy's, he could see the thought that crossed both of their minds.

But not completely.

Satisfied with a possible alliance and a tyrant now dead, Emberspirit rallied his Clan, choking a sob as Heronpaw and Raggedpaw carried their mother, both of their eyes filled with tears and sorrow.

When they got home, Emberspirit filled the Clan in on Bearstars story and death and Wolfhearts new leadership, a leadership that was granted by StarClan. The Clan listened silently before all spoke their approval, Wolfheart was well-known among the Clans toms, as she was a very pretty she-cat. Beetlestream sat vigil with his mate, his eyes filled with pain as he stared at her fur, his kits by his side. 

Emberspirit sighed as his Clan dispersed to eat after a long day, Lilycloud lay by his side. She licked his cheek and few times rousing him from his thoughts, he remembered Heronpaw and Raggedpaw in the battle, the two had fought valiantly.

 "Lynxstar!" He called, making her look up from her prey. She licked her lips and Emberspirit regretfully moved away from Lilycloud to talk to her. 

"Heronpaw and Raggedpaw fought well in that battle." He told her, "They both deserve to be warriors." 

Lynxstar dragged her amber eyes over to the grieving family, "I will make them warriors tomorrow, the kits will be apprenticed then." She mewed, "Tonight they will grieve."

Dipping his head, Emberspirit padded over to Deertails limp body.

"Oh Deertail," He murmured, laying down in front of her. "Thank you for all you taught me."

Lilycloud attached herself to his side as he sat vigil well into the night. 

Beetlestream, who had been motionless finally looked up. Next to him, his kits were asleep, their noses pressed against their mother's fur. "What will I do without her?" He asked softly, making Emberspirit look up, Lilycloud who was asleep next to him stirred slightly at his movement but didn't wake up. 

"L-Live in honor of her." Emberspirit answered softly, making the toms green eyes flash towards him. "Y-You will s-see her a-again."

Beetlestream didn't answer for a long time and Emberspirit thought that he had gone back off into staring into space but as he laid his head on his paws, his nose next to his former mentor's muzzle, he heard Beetlestream whisper.

"Going as beautiful as you lived huh? Wait for me, my love, I will take care of our kits."