SUN

               Sun’s nap was interrupted by the sound of rushing pawsteps. She opened her eyes to see Mouse, a brown and white tom, standing in front of her. “What is it, Mouse?” Sun asked, hiding her irritation.

               “It’s Snow,” Mouse said.

               Sun sighed. The white trainee had no skills at all, and showed no interest in becoming a soldier. What had Snow done now?

               “She’s gone,” Mouse said.

               “Gone?” Sun repeated.

               “Yes,” Mouse said. “I asked her to go on the sunset patrol with me and Tiger, and she said no and ran off.”

               “Maybe it’s the best thing for us all,” Sun meowed. “I mean, she was never happy here.”

               “No!” Mouse insisted stubbornly. “You must search for her!”

               Sun sighed again. She knew Mouse wouldn’t leave her alone until she agreed. “Fine,” she hissed. “You may take Tiger and Mist.”

               “Thanks!” Mouse called as he raced out of the den.

               Sun sighed and closed her eyes. But a loud greeting came from the entrance to her den and she looked up to see Grass, Snow’s mother. “Snow is gone!” she cried worriedly.

               “Snow would obviously be happier somewhere else. After all, she never was interested in being a soldier!” Sun meowed, the last of her patience fading. “I’m tired of hearing about her!”

               Grass whimpered. But Sun was angry. “That worthless cat never caught any prey. We won’t have to feed a useless mouth tonight! Leave me alone, I want to sleep!” Sun hissed.

               She curled up into a ball and watched as Grass ran from her den. Honestly, it was better that Snow was gone.  Why was every cat so worried about her?

               Sun closed her eyes and finally, she fell asleep.