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Chapter Text

THUNDERCLAN

Leader: Firestar- Man with orange hair and green eyes. He wears an orange cloak.

Deputy: Brambleclaw- Man with dark brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a dark brown striped cloak.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Foxleap- Young man with red hair and brown eyes. He wears a red striped cloak.
Apprentice- Cherry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Camp Aides: Ferncloud- Woman with black hair and green eyes. She wears a light gray cloak.

Daisy- Woman with long blonde hair and blue eyes.

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

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

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

Sorreltail- Woman with dirty blonde hair and brown eyes. She wears a dappled cloak. (Mother to Lily; Girl with black hair and blue eyes, and Seed; girl with dirty blonde hair and brown eyes)

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

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

Elders: Mousefur- Small woman with graying brown hair and brown eyes. She wears a dusky brown cloak.

Reuben- Man with graying brown hair and brown eyes.

SHADOWCLAN

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

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

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

Warriors: Oakfur- Small man with brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a brown cloak.
Apprentice- Ferret

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Redwillow- Young man with brown hair and brown eyes. He wears an orange and brown cloak.

Dawnpelt- Young woman with blonde hair and brown eyes. She wears a yellow cloak.

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

Camp Aides: Applefur- Woman with brown hair and brown eyes. She wears a mottled brown cloak.
Apprentice- Berry

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

Apprentices: Ferret- Boy with blonde hair and brown eyes. He wears a gray and yellow cloak.

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

Starling- Boy with orange hair and brown eyes. He wears an orange cloak.

Clover- Girl with black hair and brown eyes. She wears a gray striped cloak.

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

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

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

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

Elders: Tallpoppy- Tall woman with light brown hair and brown eyes. She wears a brown striped cloak.

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

WINDCLAN

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

Deputy: Ashfoot- Woman with black hair and blue eyes. She wears a gray cloak.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Boulderfur- Large man with black hair and brown eyes. He wears a light gray cloak.

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

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

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

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

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

Elders: Webfoot- Man with graying black hair and brown eyes. He wears a dark gray striped cloak.

RIVERCLAN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Robinwing- Young man with dirty blonde hair and brown eyes. He wears a dappled cloak.
Apprentice- Grass

Mossyfoot- Young woman with brown hair and brown eyes. She wears a brown and white cloak.

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

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

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

Hollowspring- Young man with dark brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a mottled brown cloak.

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

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

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

Apprentices: Grass- Boy with light brown hair and brown eyes. He wears a light brown cloak.

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

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

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

Chapter Text

Blood.

Ivypool stiffened. She could feel Antpelt’s blood welling up around her hands, warm and sticky. She could see his final spasm of agony before the light left his eyes and he went forever still.

“Stop!” she cried.

Birchfall froze. “What’s wrong?”

“You’re bleeding,” she snapped. “We’re only training. We can’t risk injury now.”

Birchfall looked surprised.

Redwillow stood up from where he was pinned beneath Birchfall. “It’s just a scratch.” He pointed to the small scrap on Birchfall’s arm.

“Just be careful,” Ivypool cautioned.

“Careful?” Hawkfrost’s growl made her spin around. “There is no time for carefulness during war. I thought you were helping out recruits train like real warriors, not soft Clansfolk.”

Birchfall narrowed his eyes. “The Clans are far from soft.”

“Then why are you here?” Hawkfrost challenged.

“Our Clans need us to be the best warriors we can be,” Redwillow said. “That’s why.”

Hawkfrost nodded. “And this is the only place you’ll achieve that. Do it again.” He turned to glare at Ivypool. “And this time, I don’t care how much blood is spilled.”

Ivypool met his gaze. But before she could respond, Applefur burst through the trees.

“Hawkfrost!” she called. “Blossomfall and Hollowflight want to fight real Dark Forest warriors.”

Applefur’s apprentices stepped out of the shadows. “We fight other Clan warriors all the time,” Blossomfall complained.

Hollowflight nodded. “We came here to learn skills no one else could teach us.” His hair was matted with blood, as though he’d been struck over the head.

Ivypool tried to mask her horror. Real Dark Forest warriors wouldn’t be as nice to their Clanmates.

“Not tonight,” Hawkfrost said, to Ivypool’s relief. “I want you to learn how the other Clans fight right now. You may fight beside each other one day, and you’ll need to know how to work together.”

A gruff voice echoed through the trees. “Four Clans will become one.” Tigerstar emerged from the shadows.

“When?” Blossomfall asked.

“When it’s time.” Mapleshade had followed behind Tigerstar.

“What are we training for?” Blossomfall asked. “If we’re all going to become Clanmates.”

“You must protect each other,” Tigerstar explained. “Think of the outsiders that constantly endanger the Clans. The beasts of the forest that hunt you like prey. You must be able to rise up against them.”

Applefur nodded in agreement. “We’re stronger together. No rogues can drive us apart if we’re all one Clan.”

Ivypool mumbled her agreement, seeing another of the Dark Forest’s tricks. Tigerstar was convincing them their loyalty was being strengthened. But was it for their real Clanmates, or the Dark Forest?

“The sun will rise soon,” Tigerstar said. “Return to your Clans.”

“Already?” Hollowflight asked.

“The warriors are having a meeting,” Tigerstar said.

“Can I come?” Ivypool asked.

“The senior warriors,” Mapleshade corrected before following Tigerstar away.

Blossomfall shrugged. “We can still practice our battle moves in the living world.” She and Birchfall were already heading away. They’d wander the forest until it let them return to their beds.

Ivypool remained behind. She turned on Ivypool. “You trust me to train apprentices, but you won’t let me attend the meeting?”

Hawkfrost chuckled, amused. “You have a lot of passion, Ivypool. But until your heart stops beating, I’m afraid my father and his friends are hesitant to welcome you among them.”

He turned and walked away.

Ivypool stared after him. She waited until he disappeared into the shadows, then darted forward. She kept just far enough back that he wouldn’t be able to sense her.

“Snowtuft?” Hawkfrost slowed.

Ivypool halted.

“Are you heading for the meeting?”

“Wouldn’t miss it for a juicy steak,” Snowtuft rasped. “Where’d the kids go?”

Hawkfrost scoffed. “My father sent them home.”

“You’re sure they’re all gone?”

“Splitstar will make sure. He’s waiting at the Training Rock.”

Ivypool crouched, then began creeping through the bushes toward the Training Rock. She knew it wasn’t far from the river where she’d first met Mapleshade. Soon, she could hear murmuring voices. She slid behind a tree. The mist was clearer here, revealing a large boulder that stuck out of the muddy shore. It was circled by scarred warriors.

One Eye stood at the top of the rock. His good eye gleamed with excitement. “The time is close,” he growled.

“Finally,” Mapleshade said.

Hawkfrost sat below the rock, his blue eyes narrowed. Splitstar and Thistleclaw stood on either side of Tigerstar. “Where will we strike first?” he demanded.

One Eye jumped off the boulder and used his foot to draw in the mud. “This is where the water meets the land. We will come at them from here and here. And while they fight here, another patrol will strike here.”

Ivypool peered around the tree, desperate to see the plan. But Tigerstar and Splistar were blocking her view.

“We can weaken them by attacking from the hill,” One Eye went on.

“What if we approach from here instead?” Tigerstar pointed to the map.

One Eye smiled crookedly. “At the very heart of the Clan!”

“Kill the children first!” Splitstar shouted. “They’ll lose all their hope.”

Mapleshade rasped a laugh. “You clearly never had children, dear. If you kill them, the mothers will have nothing left to lose and fight harder. I say we capture the children.”

“Give them hope so they do what we say,” Tigerstar agreed. “Brilliant.”

With their plan decided, the Dark Forest warriors crept away. As soon as the shore was deserted, Ivypool slid out of her hiding place. Her heart pounding in her chest, she snuck toward the mpa.

Suddenly, a hand hit her shoulder. She jerked forward.

“Ivypool!”

Dovewing was the one shaking her, bringing her back to her bed.

“Why did you wake me up?” Ivypool snapped at her.

“It’s past dawn,” Dovewing explained. “I didn’t want anyone to get suspicious why you weren’t waking up.”

“It was important!” She had been so close!

When she looked around, she realized the hut was nearly empty. The only warriors left were Rosepetal quickly combing her hair and Cloudtail returning to his bed after keeping guard the previous night. Even Birchfall and Blossomfall had left.

Quickly, Ivypool followed her sister outside.

“Good morning!” Bumblestripe called from the firepit.

Dovewing waved in greeting, but Ivypool immediately turned for the thorn barrier. She pushed into the forest, her head spinning.

She headed up the ridge. Even exhausted from a night of training, she felt strong. The Dark Forest had given her that power, and she’d one day use it against them. Below, the lake glittered beneath a pale sky. Autumn was approaching. The green leaves were turning red and gold.

Ivypool’s heart dropped, having a sudden realizing. No wonder the Dark Forest warriors were just not starting to discuss their plans in depth- it was getting cold! They were waiting for the Clans to be weakened by the hunger of winter before striking.

She was running out of time. And so were her people.

Chapter Text

Jayfeather settled outside his hut to eat his dinner.

The half-moon would be hanging high by now. The other healers would be meeting for their usual Gathering under its light.

Having to stay home made his heart ache. But Firestar had forbidden him from going, fearing it wouldn’t be safe while the other Clans suspected him of murder. He just hoped the other healers would stay true to their promise and attempt to track down Flametail and StarClan. Would the former healer appear to tell them the truth? He had no reason not to, right?

Jayfeather sighed. This was so stupid. He was innocent!

He stood up and headed out of camp.

“Jayjay.” Firestar’s voice was filled with agitation. “I hope you’re not doing what I think you’re doing.”

“Stop calling me that,” Jayfeather growled. “And so what if I am?”

Firestar’s anger was replaced with sympathy. “I know you’re frustrated.”

Jayfeather turned on him. “Really? Do you think the Clans would still believe Dawnpelt if I wasn’t half-Clan? Or if Leafpool hadn’t broken the warrior code?”

Surprise sparkled around Firestar.

“Had you forgotten?” Jayfeather demanded. “Is that why you still treat me and Lionblaze like we’re your precious grandsons?”

“You are my grandsons,” Firestar said.

“Through a healer and a WindClan warrior.”

“I don’t think about that often.”

Jayfeather blinked, surprised. He couldn’t even be near Leafpool or Squirrelflight or Brambleclaw without feeling that same prick of betrayal.

“You’re one of the Three,” Firestar said. “You were always meant to be born. Does it matter how?”

“Yes!” Jayfeather snapped. “Being Leafpool’s son is a curse. Everyone thinks I’m horrid because I’m not just half-Clan, but a healer’s son! No wonder they’re so eager to think I’m a murderer. They’d never believe I’m blessed by StarClan.”

“What matters is that we know,” Firestar said. “They will all see your worth when the time is right.”

“No thanks to Leafpool.”

“Leafpool and Squirrelflight kept their secret for a long time,” Firestar said. “They thought it would be best for you, and it was for a while. You grew up happy, even when the rest of the Clan thought you weren’t Clanborn. Don’t you remember that, Jayfeather?”

“But it was all a lie! Not just to me, but to everyone. They lied to the entire Clan.”

“Do you think you would have been happier if they didn’t keep the secret?”

“I think I’d be happier if I’d never been born!”

He turned to stomp off, but a hand gripped his arm.

“Jayfeather, listen to me,” Firestar growled, and Jayfeather was momentarily stunned by his tone. “You may not think so, but you were a blessing from StarClan. And not just because of the prophecy. You saved Squirrelflight’s life. You saved Brambleclaw’s.”

“Who cares about them? They’re both liars!”

“Who cares about that?” Firestar shot back. “They gave you a happy childhood. They gave you a stable, safe home and unconditional love- things they couldn’t have when they were younger. They wanted children so badly, and you were a miracle to them.”

“So that’s all I am, huh?” Jayfeather growled. “The savior of the Clans. The savior of two people whose marriage is held together with string.”

“That’s not what I meant-”

“Then you shouldn’t have said it.” Jayfeather ripped his hand away. Before Firestar could protest, he raced into the forest in the direction of the WindClan border. He felt a strange rush of glee as he broke out of the trees near the lake, hoping Firestar would follow him. He couldn’t wait to hear what WindClan had to say when they saw the great and noble Firestar tackle a blind healer.

He stopped for a moment, panting, listening for footsteps. When he heard them, he braced himself to keep running. But it wasn’t Firestar’s aura he sensed.

“Leafpool?”

She emerged from the trees and stopped beside him. “Are you okay?”

Jayfeather didn’t reply, feeling hollow.

“You left your grandpa quite flustered,” she went on. “Did something happen?”

Jayfeather turned away from her.

Leafpool moved closer, but didn’t touch him. “I know how it feels to lose your place as a healer.”

He tensed. She had no idea what his and Firestar’s argument had been about. He wasn’t going to be the one to tell her.

“I can still keep practicing medicine.”

“So can Brightheart,” Leafpool pointed out. “But she’s not a healer. You’re the only one whom can talk to StarClan.”

Jayfeather jerked away from her. He didn’t want her sympathy!

“Go to the Moonpool.”

Jayfeather whipped around on Leafpool, shocked.

Her tone was completely serious. “Something is bothering you. I think you need the guidance of our ancestors. Go to them. See your friends. It’ll make you feel better.”

Chapter Text

“Hello?” Jayfeather called. His voice echoed through the Moonpool’s hollow. No one answered him.

He’d missed the meeting.

Disappointed, he followed the spiraling path into the hollow. The wind whistled overhead. Jayfeather was used to being surrounded by friendly voices when he came here. He’d never realized how close he was to the other healers until he was disconnected from them. Feeling lonely and dejected, he knelt in front of the Moonpool and dipped his hands in to drink.

“Hello, Jayfeather.”

Jayfeather sat up. He found himself on a windswept moor, the grass lush and soft underfoot.

“Jayfeather.” The husky voice came from behind hi.

He turned to face the man. He was short, with black hair and friendly brown eyes. One of his ankles was twisted at an odd angle.

“Hopfoot,” Jayfeather remembered. He hadn’t seen this StarClan warrior since he was an apprentice. It was Hopfoot who had first given him the idea to start his own garden. He narrowed his eyes, realizing why. “Crowfeather’s father.”

His grandfather.

Hopfoot’s smile was soft. “Sorry I haven’t visited in awhile. I was afraid you wouldn’t be too happy to see me.”

“You were right to be.”

The former WindClan deputy’s expression didn’t falter. “Come sit with me. You’ve walked a long way to get here.” He turned around and headed up the slope of the moor. Jayfeather had no choice but to follow.

“What do you want?” he asked, his tone sharp. “Are you here to lead me to Flametail?”

“Not quite,” Hopfoot admitted, sitting down in a patch of purple heather. “That’s not the reason you came here, after all.”

“I came here because it’s the half-moon, and I’m a healer,” Jayfeather growled, sitting beside his grandfather.

Hopfoot nodded. “You certainly are. And you’re a good one, too. I couldn’t be more proud.”

“Well stop it. You’re not my grandfather. I don’t have family- besides Lionblaze.”

“And Hollyleaf?”

Jayfeather didn’t answer.

“You know what she is, don’t you?” Hopfoot asked.

Jayfeather turned to stare at him. “Is she the the fourth?”

Hopfoot nodded. “You couldn’t torture this information out of Yellowfang or Bluestar, but we really didn’t expect her to come back. The prophecy had to be adjusted.”

“I figured as much,” Jayfeather said. “You guys are kinda bad at your jobs.”

Hopfoot barked a laugh. “You, Hollyleaf, and Breezepelt get that sharp tongue from your father, you know.”

“So I keep hearing,” Jayfeather murmured. “So I assume you still watch over your son?”

“I don’t have much else to do,” Hopfoot said. “I keep an eye on my wife, Crowfeather, and and all my grandchildren. Even Breezepelt.”

“Then you know he’s training in the Dark Forest?”

“Who doesn’t?” Hopfoot frowned. “That boy is something else. And Lionblaze almost was, too. But he had something Breezepelt didn’t. A good family.”

“If I have to share his blood, I might as well be thankful Crowfeather didn’t raise me,” Jayfeather said, completely serious.

Hopfoot laughed again, not taking him seriously. “You may think being half-Clan is a weakness, but it does come with some perks.”

Jayfeather glared at him. “No, it doesn’t. There’s nothing good about being half-Clan.”

“It helps you see past boundaries better, doesn’t it?”

“No! I know how the people of WindClan look at me. Breezepelt normally killed me over it!”

“It wasn’t always like that,” Hopfoot said. “Don’t you remember being excited to meet Tawnypelt’s kids?”

Jayfeather paused. He supposed he could recall how…interesting it had been. He certainly remembered how fun it was working with Dawnpelt to help drive Sol away the first time. But that was long gone. Dawnpelt was blaming him for murder now. It was clear she didn’t seem them as family anymore.

Hopfoot was staring at him. “You were always half-Clan, Jayfeather. You had family in ShadowClan. But that was good, wasn’t it? You easily got along with Flametail when he was first an apprentice. You worked side by side with Dawnpelt to stop Sol.”

“Well, obviously that’s changed.”

“You’ve changed, too. You’re bitter, Jayfeather.”

“Really? I wonder how that happened.”

He frowned when Hopfoot once again laughed, more amused by his attitude than reacting with the usual irritation.

“You’re heart truly belongs to ThunderClan,” Hopfoot said. “But that doesn’t make you any less WindClan. Just as Stormfur and Feathertail were half-RiverClan. Stormfur lives with the Tribe now, and Feathertail crosses borders so much we can’t keep track of her. Loyalty can strength a Clan, but pure blood is a myth.”

“Why are you telling me all this? I’m not making up with Leafpool or Crowfeather any time soon.”

“I’m not asking you to. What I really want is for you to unite the Clans. It’s time we all set our borders aside for the sake of all.”

Jayfeather turned on him. “But how? They’re all at each other’s throats because you guys gave them a vague warning about darkness!”

“Yes, we were also surprised by how badly they took that,” Hopfoot said. “But it’s time to fix that mistake. The Clans must know the battle they are about to face.” He stood up and stretched. “It should be easy enough. You’re blunt.” He stood up and turned away, heading further up the sloping moor.

“Wait!” Jayfeather followed. “What if they don’t believe me?”

“They will, in time.” Hopfoot looked over his shoulder. “Be confident, Jayfeather. Trust yourself.”

Jayfeather stared until he disappeared over the crest of the hill. He closed his eyes, expecting to wake up from the dream. But when he opened them again, he found himself in a shadowy forest.

“You’ll never see us coming,” a voice whispered in his ear.

Jayfeather jerked away.

“You death will be slow and painful,” it called again, gruff and growling.

Jayfeather spun around, staring into the trees.

“You can’t stop us.”

A single eye gleamed in front of him. Jayfeather strained to see the figure surrounded it, and recoiled. It was a scarred man, one of his eyes completely missing. His blonde hair was tufted and ragged. He wasn’t dressed like a Clansfolk, or a townsfolk. And with how the trees and bushes behind him shone clear through his figure, Jayfeather knew he must be ancient.

“Fear us,” the man said. His voice seemed to come from the trees themselves.

Jayfeather lifted his chin. “I won’t! We’re ready for you!”

“Really?” The man blinked.

Jayfeather kept his gaze, but he could hear voices nearby.

“Line up!” someone ordered. “Draw your weapons!”

“You must hear our apprentices,” the man cooed.

“Which attack do we use?”

Jayfeather gasped, recognizing Blossomfall’s voice.

“The throat chop could work,” Birchfall answered.

“Too clean,” Breezepelt growled. “Death should come slow and bloody. We must terrify our enemies before we kill them.”

“Maul the first wave so those behind will be unnerved,” Tigerheart added.

“First scare them, then scar them.”

“Good idea, Beetlewhisker,” Icewing told her son.

This was worse than Jayfeather could imagined. So many had already sided with the Dark Forest! But the Clans needed to fight as one. How could they with so many traitors among them?

That cruel voice cut through his thoughts once more. “We are everywhere, fool. We are many. And we are ready.”

Darkness covered his eyes and he was blind once more. The sound of the waterfall filled his ears. Jayfeather scrambled to his feet, feeling sweaty.

A voice made him jump. “Jayfeather?”

“Mothwing?” Jayfeather spun around.

“Are you alright?” Her voice came from just in front of him.

“I’m fine.” Jayfeather frowned. What was she doing here? She never attended the half-moon Gatherings.

“I got worried when Willowshine said you didn’t show,” Mothwing explained. “But I knew you wouldn’t stay away. Did you have a vision?”

“Of the Dark Forest,” Jayfeather admitted. He’d told Mothwing of the impending doom long enough, but warned her to keep quiet as not to start a panic.

“Is the battle getting closer?” Mothwing asked.

Jayfeather nodded. “I saw a few of the trainees tonight. Icewing and Beetlewhisker were there.”

Shock sparked through Mothwing. “That can’t be! Icewing wouldn’t.”

“I told you, they’re using manipulation and lies to get our Clanmates to side with them. They must have appealed to her in some way. Is there anyone else in your Clan who seems constantly tired? Maybe hostile?”

“Beetlewhisker has. And Hollowflight…”

“We’re running out of time.” With every new name that surfaced, Jayfeather was growing more anxious. Just how many Clan warriors were secretly Dark Forest apprentices? “We need to unite the Clans and tell everyone the truth.”

“What can I do to help?”

“Figure out exactly who is training in the Dark Forest,” Jayfeather said. “We need to know who to trust. In the meantime, we need to get the Clans back on good terms. We stand a better chance at winning if we fight together.”

“Can I tell Willowshine about all this now?”

“You might as well.” It was time for the secret to come out. The Clans had to know. “I’ll talk to the other healers as well. No more hiding. The battle is coming, and we must prepare.”

Chapter Text

The hollow was illuminated by bright sunshine. The Clan was settling down to have lunch.

Lionblaze sat outside the nursery, Cinderheart leaning on his shoulder. She was still quite far from giving birth, but Lionblaze felt more anxious than anyone about it. What if the Dark Forest attacked while his child was too helpless to protect itself? What if Cinderheart was weakened by giving birth and was left vulnerable?

“Ow, Lionblaze!” Cinderheart yelped. “Why are you squeezing so hard?”

Lionblaze relaxed. He hadn’t realized he’d wrapped an arm around Cinderheart, gripping her shoulder. “Sorry.”

“Are you okay?” she asked. “You seem stressed.”

“No, I’m fine. Just zoning out.” He tried to push the dark thoughts from his mind, looking around the camp.

“Bring me that pigeon!” Bellsong called to Graystripe from the warrior’s hut.

“There’s eggs, too.” Rosepetal was sharing a meal with Blossomfall. “We found a nest!”

Graystripe headed for the firepit. The food storage was well stocked. Extra hunting patrols had been sent out. Firestar was keen on keeping the Clan fit all the way into winter.

“Can I join you?” Hollyleaf crossed the clearing to sit on Lionblaze’s other side. Beast padded along behind her and flopped down on his side when they reached the nursery, tongue lolling.

“Of course,” Cinderheart invited.

Hollyleaf leaned against the wall of the nursery. “Jayfeather hasn’t come back yet.”

“I know.” Lionblaze had stayed up the previous night waiting for him.

“Grandpa’s not happy with him,” Hollyleaf went on.

“He’ll be in for an earful,” Cinderheart agreed. “Firestar told him not to go to the Moonpool.” Her voice suddenly became anxious. “Do you think WindClan captured him?”

“He wouldn’t let that happen,” Hollyleaf said. “He’d know to be careful. Right?”

Lionblaze didn’t answer, feeling his heart race. He decided if Jayfeather didn’t come back by the time the evening patrols were sent out, he’d mention it to Firestar.

“He’s missing out on a good meal,” Cinderheart said.

“Lionblaze!” Brambleclaw called from across the clearing. “I’d like you to take a patrol to the lake. Hollyleaf, you can take one to the ShadowClan border. Thornclaw said he found wolf tracks there the other day, so keep a look out.”

Beast jumped up, a growl rumbling in his throat. “Don’t worry, Brambleclaw,” Hollyleaf said. “We’ll take care of it.” She stood up and led the way across the clearing.

Lionblaze pressed a kiss to Cinderheart’s cheek before standing up as well. The first person he locked eyes with was Cloudtail. “Want to come hunting?”

“No, he doesn’t!” Brightheart called from the nursery. “He hunted all morning. Now he’s going to get in here and play with the children so Ferncloud and I can take a break.”

Cloudtail gave Lionblaze a shrug. “It’ll be your turn soon enough,” he teased before whisking away for the nursery.

Lionblaze smiled after him awkwardly, trying to disguise his fear. There were so many children in ThunderClan! So many warriors were stuck in the nursery taking care of them. Would it weaken ThunderClan during the final battle?

He scanned the clearing again. Blossomfall had finished eating and was sparring with Mousewhisker beside the nursery. She spun around, steadiness herself and dodging a well-aimed blow. They both seemed relaxed and comfortable.

“Mousewhisker! Blossomfall!” he called. “Want to come hunting by the lake?”

Mousewhisker smiled. “Sure!”

They ran for the thorn barrier together. Lionblaze followed them out of camp. By the time he caught up, they were already climbing the slope, zigzagging through the brambles as though chasing each other.

“Ow!” Blossomfall suddenly squeaked.

Lionblaze paused. “What’s wrong?”

Blossomfall’s ankle was tangled in a bramble. Mousewhisker crouched in front of her, gripping the bramble and gingerly unwrapping her. “Hold still,” he murmured. “It’s on your wound from last night.”

“I knew I should have gotten it bandaged,” Blossomfall whispered back.

Lionblaze froze. There was only one place Blossomfall could have gotten hurt the previous night. He struggled to keep his breath regularly. They were both training in the Dark Forest!

Trembling, he watched Mousewhisker pull the bramble away. He suddenly wished he’d asked someone else to come with him. What if they turned on him out in the forest?

He quickly banished the thought. These were his Clanmates! Mousewhisker was his friend! They wouldn’t do that.

“You okay?” Mousewhisker asked. “Maybe you should rest.”

“I’ll be fine,” Blossomfall promised. “Let’s go.”

Before they could head off again, a voice called from behind. “Lionblaze!”

He turned to see Dovewing pushing through the undergrowth. Hollyleaf and Jayfeather followed.

“I told you he’d here,” Dovewing announced triumphantly.

“We didn’t doubt you,” Jayfeather said. He must have just returned from the Moonpool. “We all need to talk.”

Lionblaze glanced over his shoulder at Mousewhisker and Blossomfall, who had just noticed the commotion. “Go ahead without me!” he called to them. “I need to help Jayfeather with something.”

Mousewhisker and Blossomfall exchanged a glance, then hurried away.

“What is it?” Lionblaze asked when they were out of earshot. Was the Dark Forest ready to attack?

“I received a new prophecy from the Mountain Tribe’s Ancestors,” Jayfeather announced.

“The Tribe’s Ancestors?” Dovewing echoed. “When?”

“While we were in the mountains.”

“And you’re just now telling us?” Dovewing seemed surprised.

Jayfeather ignored her. “They told me there is a fourth member of the prophecy.”

Lionblaze cocked his head. “A fourth?”

“But the prophecy says three,” Dovewing said.

“That was before,” Jayfeather explained. “It seems you were right, Lionblaze. Dovewing was given powers as a backup in case Hollyleaf didn’t come back. But now that she has, there are four of us.”

Hollyleaf’s eyes widened. “Can prophecies just change like that?”

“I guess so,” Jayfeather said. “But at least we know who all the members are the prophecy are and we don’t have to spend five more years searching.”

“That’s good, right?” Dovewing asked. “That means we’re ready. We’re all here. We know our powers. We’ll be okay.”

Hollyleaf put a hand on her shoulder. “We still have a lot of preparations to make. But we know what to do now.”

“Yes,” Jayfeather agreed. “StarClan made themselves clear. It’s time to tell our Clanmates everything.”

“Now?” Lionblaze growled. “You just ruined Cinderheart’s life so she wouldn’t tell anyone!”

Jayfeather winced, but ignored his comment. “We won’t tell them all at once. Mothwing and I are telling all the healers first, then we’ll probably tell the leaders.”

“Mothwing knows?” Lionblaze shrieked.

Jayfeather jolted at the tone of his voice, looking surprised- at Lionblaze for snapping at him or for himself for letting that slip was unclear. “She’s a healer! She asked me about it and I couldn’t lie to her.”

Lionblaze felt a hand on his chest and realized Hollyleaf had dove between them, keeping him back. He hadn’t realized he’d stepped forward to tower over Jayfeather angrily.

He didn’t care.

“You made us all keep this secret for this long, but you’ve been telling your healer buddies behind our backs?” he snapped. “Dovewing’s sister hates her and my wife is having an identity crisis! All to keep the stupid prophecy away from our Clanmates. But now you’re saying it’s totally fine?”

Hollyleaf was sliding on the ground, unable to keep Lionblaze from advancing. Jayfeather was backing away, looking shocked.

“I did what StarClan wanted,” he growled back.

“Did StarClan tell you to let Mothwing in on it?” Lionblaze retorted. “Did they tell you to give Cinderheart her memories?”

“N-no, but-”

“You’re not the leader, Jayfeather! You can’t just make decisions behind our backs. It doesn’t say ‘who hold the power of the stars in their hands, but Jayfeather holds the most.’”

“I was doing what was best!” Jayfeather stammered out. Lionblaze couldn’t recall ever seeing him so thrown off before. “I had to do those things. And you’re the one who told Cinderheart without asking me first.”

“Asking you what? For permission?”

“That’s not what I meant.”

“Then you shouldn’t have said it!”

“Enough!” Hollyleaf finally shouted over both of them. She shoved Lionblaze’s chest, making him take a step back. “It’s become very clear that both of you have gone completely mad while I was away. Now if you’d stop arguing for a second, we can discuss this like adults and not children.”

Dovewing took a step forward, looking awkward. “I do think Lionblaze is right, Jayfeather. You should have consulted us. We’re a team.”

Jayfeather’s eyes were narrowed. “I’m the one who talks to StarClan. I know more than any of you.”

“And you don’t tell us anything!” Lionblaze growled.

“Lionblaze, stop yelling,” Hollyleaf snapped. “We’re supposed to be uniting the Clans. How can we do that if we’re all fighting? Jayfeather made a mistake. A few mistakes. You did to. Now shut up, get over it, and let’s save our people.”

Lionblaze glared at Jayfeather. “I won’t get over this. You ruined Cinderheart’s life! Whatever plan you have cooking, I don’t want any part in it. I’m tired of being your sidekick."

Chapter Text

Lionblaze turned and stomped away in the direction of the lake, leaving the other three to stare after him. Hollyleaf didn’t move, her green eyes narrowed. Behind her, Jayfeather let out a sigh.

“I suppose you want me to go apologize?” he asked his sister.

Hollyleaf shook her head. “Give him some space.” For a moment, they stood side by side, staring at where Lionblaze had disappeared. Then, Hollyleaf raised one hand and smacked Jayfeather over the back of his head.

The healer jolted forward. “Ow!”

“We are gonna have words, Jayjay, just you wait,” Hollyleaf growled. “Dovewing, you should probably go. I’m sorry you had to watch this.”

Dovewing nodded in agreement. “Talk to you later!” Quickly, she walked away.

She’d never seen Lionblaze so upset before! Especially towards Jayfeather. The two didn’t fight often, and when they did, Jayfeather was victorious. But Dovewing found herself agreeing with her former mentor, although she kept her own anger much more guarded. It was Jayfeather who had ordered them to keep the secret of the prophecy. It was his fault Ivypool had joined the Dark Forest and was now putting herself in danger every night.

She hopped a small stream and pushed deeper into the forest, trying to let the shade soothe her. What would happen if Lionblaze didn’t forgive Jayfeather before the battle? Would they still be able to fight the Dark Forest if they weren’t all united? She hoped Hollyleaf could sort this out. She seemed more mature than her brothers.

“Ow!” Dovewing squeaked a thorn stabbed the bottom of her foot. She’d been so lost in thought she hadn’t noticed the brambles in front of her.

A sharp growl made her freeze. “Did you hear that?”

Dovewing noticed the border markers just in front of her. She’d wandered all the way to the ShadowClan border! She froze, ducking behind the bramble.

“Don’t worry, Dovewing,” someone whispered from the other side. “Stay here and I’ll get rid of them.”

Dovewing’s eyes widened as Tigerheart slid into view.

“Just a rabbit!” he called to his Clanmates. “But it escaped onto ThunderClan’s land.”

“I didn’t see a rabbit,” Ratscar growled.

“This isn’t a hunting patrol!” Rowanclaw called. “We need to track down that wolf.”

“But I swore I heard someone,” Ratscar said.

“I’ll check the border,” Tigerheart offered.

“Just make sure you stay on this side,” Rowanclaw warned. “Come on, Ratscar. Blackstar is expecting us.”

Dovewing exhaled when the ShadowClan patrol headed in the direction of the lake.

“Dovewing?” Tigerheart whispered. “Where you looking for me?”

“Of course not!” Dovewing jumped to her feet. “I heard you accuse Jayfeather of murder. I’d never come looking for you on purpose.”

“I had to support Dawnpelt,” Tigerheart explained.

“She’s a liar!”

“She’s also my sister,” Tigerheart said. “What did you expect me to do?”

“Keep your mouth shut!” Dovewing snapped. “Or do you actually believe her?”

“Everyone was turning on her. I couldn’t let that happen,” Tigerheart said. “Not when she was making such a serious accusation. You’d have done the same for Ivypool.”

“Not if I knew she was lying.”

Tigerheart narrowed his eyes. “And what if Ivypool did something terrible?”

Dovewing blinked. “She wouldn’t!”

“Really?”

“Stop talking about Ivypool! This is about Dawnpelt and her stupid lie.”

“She believes what she says.”

“Do you?” Dovewing growled.

“I miss you, Dovewing.” He completely dodged the question. “I don’t want to argue.”

She narrowed her eyes.

“I want to meet with you again. Just the two of us. It was so much fun.”

Dovewing opened her mouth to argue, then stopped. “I-I don’t know about all that.”

“You do!” He stepped right up to the border. “You feel the same way I do. I can tell.”

Dovewing backed away. “No, I don’t. You’re training in the Dark Forest.”

“Tigerheart!” Ratscar called.

“Coming!” Tigerheart replied. “Meet me tonight!” he told Dovewing. “I’ll wait for you in the garden.”

Trembling, Dovewing turned away. She couldn’t! She broke into a run, wanting to put as much distance between them as possible.

But why couldn’t she? They’d met before. She could give it a try. And if it felt wrong, she’d drop it all together.

A figure flashed in front of her. Skidding to a halt, she stumbled, missing Firestar by an inch.

He jumped back, surprised. “Dovewing! Sorry. I was thinking about something. I didn’t even hear you coming.”

“I should have been looking where I was going.”

His gaze was sympathetic. “Were you worrying, too?”

She doubted they had been worrying about the same thing. “I-I was just…”

“Jayfeather told me about the Dark Forest,” Firestar blurted out. “He came to me as soon as he got back from the Moonpool. Wouldn’t even give me a moment to lecture him about running off.”

A flash of anger went through Dovewing. Jayfeather had already told Firestar? He hadn’t mentioned that.

“The Clan will soon figure out something is wrong,” Firestar said. “I ordered Brambleclaw to increase patrols and Dustpelt is reinforcing the huts. They’ll all realize soon enough.” He turned to her. “Are you okay? You have a lot of responsibility in all this for someone so young.”

Dovewing straightened. “I can handle it.”

“I know,” Firestar said. “It’s almost dinner time. You should head back to camp and rest. I’m sorry all of you have been dealing with this for so long. If I knew, I would have helped.”

Dovewing offered him a weak smile, wishing the entire Clan could know by now. She had half a mind to march into camp and scream the truth to everyone. But Jayfeather was right about one thing- they needed to go slow. Their Clanmates would have an easier time believing them if the healers and leaders did first.

Chapter Text

The sun was directly overhead. Ivypool was relaxing in the shade of the warrior’s hut. She’d just finished eating and felt comfortable and warm. She was weary after last night’s training. She’d noticed Dovewing had also been quite slow getting out of bed. She was off on patrol now, but Brambleclaw had practically dragged her out of camp.

“Ivypool!” Birchfall called.

“Hi, dad. What’s up?”

Her father was silhouetted against the sun. Mousewhisker stood beside him.

“We need to talk,” Birchfall siad, his voice low. “In private.”

Ivypool gazed across the sun-lit camp. Sorreltail and Leafpool were eating outside the nursery while Lily and Seed chased Beast around the clearing. Nearby, Mousefur and Rusty were relaxing in the shade, eyeing the wolf warily. Cherry and Mole were sparring outside their hut.

Wearily, Ivypool headed for the camp entrance, not meeting Mousewhisker or Birchfall’s eyes.

The forest was cool outside, shaded by leaves and a soft breeze. Ivypool led Birchfall and Mousewhisker along the trail until they reached the moss covered hollow where the apprentices often trained.

“We’re going to meet up with the trainees from the other Clans,” Birchfall explained.

Ivypool stiffened. “When?”

“Now.”

“Why?”

“We need practice fighting in the light,” Mousewhisker said.

Birchfall’s eyes were bright. “If we practice outside of training, we can improve even faster.”

“And Hawkfrost asked us to find ways for the Dark Forest warriors to reach our land in case we need their help.”

Ivypool gasped. “...h-help?”

Birchfall blinked. “If one Clan is threatened, we can all help each other, and they can too.”

Ivypool couldn’t believe what she was hearing. Her Clanmates’ eyes were wide and clear. They completely trusted Hawkfrost’s motivations! While the rest of the Clans were on edge and hostile, the Dark Forest apprentices were growing closer and closer. Ivypool wanted to scream the truth to all of them.

Her heart quickened. She couldn’t reveal she was a spy. What if they turned on her?

“Let’s go,” Mousewhisker said.

“Where?” Ivypool asked awkwardly.

“We’re meeting Sunstrike at the border,” Birchfall explained, excited.

“She’s bringing Lark and Harespring,” Mousewhisker added.

Ivypool shoved down her horror. How stupid could they be? She watched how confident Birchfall and Mousewhisker looked. They truly believed they were being loyal by meeting with WindClan warriors to share battle moves.

She had to stop this.

But she couldn’t order them not to go. She would simply have to watch and hope they didn’t get caught. It was too early to call it quits.

She followed her Clanmates toward the WindClan border, scanning the forest. Birds flitted between the trees. A squirrel skittered through the forest floor beyond the ferns. She suddenly spotted a fox colored cloak through the trees.

Her heart lifted. “I’ll meet you there.”

Birchfall nodded.

Ivypool veered off the trail. “Foxleap!”

The warrior turned. “Hi, Ivypool. What’s up?”

Ivypool glanced over her shoulder. Mousewhisker and Birchfall had disappeared over the rise. “Can you bring a patrol to the WindClan border? Along the lake trail. I think I found footprints and I’d like the senior warriors to take a look.”

Foxleap frowned. “I’ll go get them.” He turned and raced for camp.

Ivypool rushed to catch up with Birchfall and Mousewhisker. “I thought I saw a deer. Couldn’t pass it up.”

The trees were thinning as they reached the edge of the forest. Ivypool slowed. This stretch of grass led straight to the border. She had to give Foxleap time.

“I’m proud of you,” Birchfall murmured to her. “Seeing you in the Dark Forest makes me realize how much I’ve underestimated your skills. You’re a fantastic warrior, Ivypool.”

Ivypool gave him a smile, her heart breaking. He had no idea why she was really in the Dark Forest- or how she’d ended up there.

They emerged into the light. Ahead, the ground sloped down to the stream, lined with border markers. Beyond lay WindClan’s grassy moor, rising into the clear blue sky. Ivypool scanned the heather, then glanced at the lake. There was no sign of WindClan or Foxleap. She spotted a pile of boulders near the slope. “Let’s hide there and wait for them.”

Mousewhisker frowned. “Why would we wide?”

“So no one sees us and wonders what we’re doing,” Ivypool said. “We’re not supposed to tell our Clanmates about the Dark Forest, remember?” She ducked behind the boulders.

Birchfall and Mousewhisker joined her. She stared over the top boulder onto the moor.

She heard footsteps from the ThunderClan side. Foxleap was leading Brackenfur and Graystripe up the slope from the lake. As they neared, the heather on the other side of the stream crackled as Harespring stepped out, along with Lark and Sunstrike.

“Any sign of them?” Sunstrike murmured.

“Stay back!” Foxleap shouted from the slope. The ThunderClan patrol raced to the border. “What are you doing here?”

“Checking the border,” Sunstrike said, meeting his gaze.

“Aren’t you a camp aide now?” Graystripe asked her.

Sunstrike’s eyes narrowed. “That doesn’t confide me to camp, you know. We need another warrior for this patrol.”

“You’ve been trespassing!” Brackenfur accused.

“We haven’t crossed the border!” Harespring growled.

“Not this time,” Foxleap growled. “But one of our warriors found strange footprints on our side.”

Birchfall stiffened. “Who?” he whispered.

Ivypool shrugged. “I don’t know,” she lied.

Mousewhisker groaned. “Why now, of all times?”

Sunstrike stood at the edge of the stream. Foxleap faced her on the other side.

“No WindClan warrior has crossed the border,” Sunstrike growled.

“Are you accusing ThunderClan?” Graystripre retorted.

Harespring’s eyes were narrowed. “We’ve been ordered to challenge anyone we find on our land.”

“Well this is our land,” Brackenfur growled.

“Stop!” Birchfall shot out from the boulders.

Foxleap spun around, eyes wide. “What are you doing here?”

“Checking the border, like you,” Birchfall said. He signaled to Mousewhisker and Ivypool to join him. Mousewhisker slid out from hiding. Reluctantly, Ivypool followed.

Foxleap’s eyes narrowed. “How can you check it from all the way over there?”

“We were waiting to see if they’d cross,” Birchfall said. “And they haven’t. Let’s go.”

“Not until we’re sure,” Foxleap growled.

“You should be,” Sunstrike said. She turned and led her Clanmates away.

Foxleap was walking up and down the border. “No signs of footprints.” She looked expectantly at Ivypool.

She looked away.

“Nothing left to see here then,” Brackenfur said. “Let’s get back to camp.”

Ivypool hurried off immediately, heavy with relief. But Foxleap caught up.

“Are you sure you saw footprints?” he asked.

She flinched. “It’s possible I only glanced at them without getting a good look. With how tense everything’s been lately I might have overreacted.”

Foxleap frowned. “I guess.”

Ivypool glanced at her, her stomach tight. Did he believe her? She had hoped becoming a spy for the Dark Forest would mean no longer lying to her Clanmates. But in the end, it had led her right back.

Chapter Text

“Not like that!” Bumblestripe shouted.

Dovewing spun around to face him, her grip tight on the branch. “You told me to climb, I’m climbing!”

“Not there.” Bumblestripe climbed up to sit on the branch above her. “This is the easiest route and it’s the one everyone would take in a battle. You have to find a less likely route to avoid crashing into each other.” He pointed to a branch a few lengths above them. Then, he jumped up to grab it, hauling himself up. “Your turn.”

Dovewing scowled, pulling herself onto the branch to launch herself up. She easily joined Bumblestripe. “Better?”

Bumblestripe glanced at the leaves that had fluttered down. “You should aim for a bare branch,” he suggested. “The enemy will know you’re here if you send leaves down each time.”

Dovewing held her tongue. She enjoyed Bumblestripe’s company…while they ate together during meals or relaxed in camp. But out here, training or patrolling, he treated her like a new apprentice. She couldn’t stand it.

Seeing Tigerheart again had made her realize she didn’t like Bumblestripe as much as she thought. Tigerheart let her talk about herself and offered his own input. He was always interested in what she had to say, and he didn’t reprimand her when she made easy mistakes.

They’d been practicing all morning and Dovewing was hot and tired. “Why are we doing this?” she called down to Brambleclaw.

“Because we need to,” Bumblestripe growled at her.

“Firestar wants everyone to brush up on tree battling,” Brambleclaw explained more calmly. “These skills give us a huge advantage in battle.”

“Exactly,” Bumblestripe added. “You need to stay sharp.”

“Everyone needs to stay sharp,” Brambleclaw corrected. “Let’s take a break.”

Dovewing sighed in relief when Bumblestripe immediately dropped down from the tree. But she nearly ripped his head off when he turned and held his arms up, like he was going to catch her. Before she could leap out of the tree and knock him to the ground, voices caught her attention.

“What’s the point of visiting ThunderClan?” Ratscar growled. “We have no use of Firestar.”

Blackstar answered him. “I must speak to him.”

“I don’t see why,” Ratscar murmured.

“ShadowClan!” Dovewing called to her Clanmates.

“Where?” Brambleclaw replied.

“Heading for camp!” She scrambled down the tree.

“Did you see them from up there?” Bumblestripe asked.

Dovewing nodded hastily.

“They’re invading!” Bumblestripe gasped.

“No!” Dovewing thought fast. “It…it was a small patrol. And it didn’t look like they were trying to hide.”

“We need to get to them before they reach camp,” Bumblestripe growled.

“Shouldn’t we warn Firestar?” Dovewing asked. “It seemed like they were just heading for camp.”

Brambleclaw nodded. “Yes. Let them find their own way.” He hurried off, taking a trail that would cut through the clearing.

The ShadowClan patrol had gone quiet and were now focused on picking their way through the dense undergrowth. Dovewing caught up with Brambleclaw, Bumblestripe just behind.

Just as they made it into the hollow, Dovewing heard the leaves crunch. She turned to see Ratscar and Tigerheart appear at the top of the slope. Stoat stood at their side, his eyes glittering. Pine stood between them, her brown eyes narrowed.

Blackstar was in the lead. “I’m here to speak with Firestar.”

Brambleclaw nodded and led the way into camp.

Firestar was already on the Highledge, his head high. He blinked in surprise when the patrol led the ShadowClan warriors into camp, and quickly came down from the Highledge. “What’s this about?”

“I must speak with you,” Blackstar said. “Urgently.”

Firestar’s eyes were wide. Blackstar never asked for help unless it was offered. He wouldn’t come all this way for nothing. Quickly, Firestar led him up the Highledge and into his hut.

“What’s going on?” Thornclaw called from the warrior’s hut. He and the other senior warriors were streaming out of the hut. “Why is ShadowClan in our camp?”

“Blackstar wanted to speak with Firestar,” Brambleclaw explained. “They’re not causing trouble.”

“Unless you want us to,” Ratscar growled.

The two warriors glared at each other, as though sizing one another up. Meanwhile, Lionblaze slipped in beside Dovewing. “Do you know what’s going on?”

Dovewing, feeling a pang of guilt for spying, directed her attention to the Highledge. In the cave, she could hear Firestar and Blackstar’s murmured whispers.

“...a while ago,” Blackstar was saying. “Before Flametail died. But I could never imagine something like this.”

Firestar replied with a sympathetic tone. “No one could. I don’t blame you for being skeptical. But now there’s no time to waste. Have you spoken to the other leaders?”

“I assumed Mothwing was telling everyone,” Blackstar answered. “Did she tell you?”

Firestar hesitated a moment. “Yes,” he said slowly. “She left not long ago.”

Dovewing held her breath, hoping Blackstar would believe the lie. He might accuse Firestar of keeping important information if he knew that the ThunderClan leader was already aware.

“I think it’s about the Dark Forest,” Dovewing whispered to Lionblaze. “Mothwing is telling all the leaders.”

“Of course she is,” Lionblaze grumbled. “What’s Blackstar saying?”

Dovewing listened again.

“We must work out what to do,” Firestar said. “We’ll meet with Mistystar and Onestar when they’re filled in.”

“What about your Clans?” Blackstar rasped, sounding stressed. “How can my own people turn against me? Who can we trust?”

“We won’t know until the battle starts,” Firestar admitted. “But we can’t risk setting them off. I’ve already ordered more battle training for my warriors and Dustpelt is reinforcing the huts. You should do the same.”

“Blackstar is scared about the Dark Forest,” Dovewing reported. “Firestar’s telling him what to do.”

“What are you two whispering about?” Ratscar snapped, glaring at them. He and the other ShadowClan warriors were surrounded by Thornclaw, Spiderleg, and Mousewhisker.

“Whatever they want,” Spiderleg snapped at him.

“Just wondering what Blackstar could want,” Lionblaze said evenly.

Ratscar narrowed his eyes. “None of your business. It’s for Firestar only.”

Dovewing fixed him with an exasperated look, doubting even he knew what this was about. She glanced at Tigerheart, trying to catch his eye, but he was looking at the ground. Did he realize what this meeting was about?

Her attention turned to Ratscar. He was an older warrior, just a few years from becoming a senior, but he’d always been rather hostile and crude. Was he training in the Dark Forest?

“Hey, Dovewing!” Bumblestripe called. He walked up and took her arm. “Coming hunting with me.”

Dovewing blinked at him. “What?”

“You said you wanted to go hunting after training.”

“Did I?” Dovewing looked toward the Highledge again. Didn’t he want to stay here and see what would happen?

“I’m not staying here with those ShadowClan shrews,” Bumblestripe growled. “They shouldn’t even be here.”

Dovewing looked around quickly. She didn’t want to go hunting alone with him. “Hey, Foxleap!” she called. “Come hunting with us?”

The young warrior had been standing by the camp entrance, eyeing the ShadowClan warriors warily. “Now?”

“Let’s get away from these jerks,” Bumblestripe said, jabbing a thumb toward the ShadowClan warriors.

“I want to come, too!” Blossomfall raced across the clearing to join them.

Bumblestripe led the way to the entrance. Blossomfall slid past him to get out first. Foxleap followed. Dovewing paused, casting a glance toward Tigerheart. She wished they could talk, but she couldn’t address him in front of the whole Clan.

“Dovewing, come on!” Bumblestripe called.

She hurried to catch up.

“We’ll go to the ShadowClan border,” Bumblestripe was deciding outside the camp entrance.

“I’ll go further up toward the white rock,” Dovewing announced.

Bumblestripe nodded before heading off, and Dovewing sided with relief. She was slower while making her way to the hunting spot. She listened back into camp.

Ratscar and Thornclaw were still going back in forth in what Dovewing thought must be the middle aged man equivalent of a squabble. Other warriors had strayed into the clearly now to see what was going on. The chatter was loud enough to drown out the leaders’ meeting. Dovewing tried to focus, but she couldn’t get past the sounds of her Clanmates’ voices.

“Why are you being so slow today?”

Bumblestripe’s voice made her spin around, surprised. “Did you follow me?”

“I wanted to make sure you didn’t need help,” he said. “Why are you just standing around?”

“None of your business!” she snapped. At his hurt expression, she sighed. “Okay, fine. I’m worrying about what Blackstar has to say.”

Bumblestripe joined her side. “I’m sure we’ll know soon enough. No use worrying about it.”

“Yeah,” Dovewing agreed. He had no idea she was supposed to be worrying about it. She remembered the reason she’d been drawn to him in the first place- he was easy. She didn’t have to sneak around to be with him. And even if he treated her like a child, she preferred it over Jayfeather and Lionblaze’s constant pressuring.

“I’m sorry,” he suddenly blurted out.

She blinked. “What for?”

“About fussing over you during training.”

“Oh.” Dovewing hadn’t expected him to apologize. “It’s okay. I was making silly mistakes.

“You were,” Bumblestripe agreed.

“Hey!” Dovewing pushed him away, laughing.

He chuckled. “Let’s get back to hunting. I’ll help you track something juicy down.”

She gritted her teeth and nodded, unable to decide if she did prefer this or not. She fell in behind him. At least she could use the bustle in the camp to drown out his nagging.

Chapter Text

“Come on!” Dovewing swerved around the corner of the house. “Let’s find the beaver trail!”

Tigerheart caught up, panting. “Beaver trail?”

“The path we used to find the dam.”

Tigerheart blinked. “That was so long ago! We were both still apprentices. I felt like a completely different person.”

Dovewing nodded, understand completely. Back then, she’d just learned of the prophecy and had no idea just how much it would effect her life. Now the whole Clan was depending on her.

“Next autumn you might be living in ThunderClan,” she whispered, the idea making her feel warm. “I’d love to have a baby.”

Tigerheart took a step back. “Already? We only just became warriors.”

“I-I mean…not right now, I guess.” She blushed, embarrassed that she’d said something like that.

Suddenly, both of them jumped as the back door of the house slammed open. “Sal de mi bostezo, niños feas!”

There was no mistaking that voice. Dovewing spun around to face the house, eyes wide. Golden light was seeping out of the doorway, illuminating a small square in the flower covered garden. A lanky man stood there, silhouetted.

Sol looked small without his giant coat. He wore a simple white t shirt and blue, scratchy looking pants, his hands on either of his elegant hips. As Dovewing’s eyes adjusted to the light, she could make out a sour look on his face.

“Salir! Leave!” Sol snapped. “Can’t you Clansfolk let me be?”

“S-Sol?” Dovewing was flabberghasted. “This is your house?”

“You didn’t know?” Tigerheart asked.

She turned on him. “No! You never told me!”

“I don’t care who knew,” Sol growled. “Leave me alone! I thought you two were finally done with this. Niños molestas…va a terminar adolescente embarazada.”

“I’m sorry,” Dovewing blurted out. “I didn’t know.”

“Don’t act like a grouchy elder,” Tigerheart said. “You owe us this after what you did to the Clans.”

Sol pointed an accusing finger at him. “If a single baby is conceived on my lawn, I’ll have you thrown in jail for indecency! Now get out before I call the police!”

“We’re weren’t gonna!” Tigerheart snapped.

Dovewing put a hand on his arm. “Let’s just go. We can find another place to meet.”

Tigerheart cast one last glare at Sol, then let himself he led away, back toward the Clan territories. They didn’t stop until they heard the door slam shut.

Immediately, Dovewing turned on him. “You never said this was Sol’s house.”

“I didn’t think he’d notice!”

Dovewing ran her hands over her face, anxiety making her chest hurt. They could have been discovered! “You’re lucky Sol didn’t mention us when he came back! Oh StarClan…what if he still does? What if he tells on us?”

“Don’t act like we’re little kids whose parents are gonna send us to bed without dinner,” Tigerheart sneered. “It’s fine. He hasn’t said anything. As long as we stay away from there from now on, we won’t get caught.”

Dovewing still wasn’t sure. But then Tigerheart’s fingers intertwined with hers, and she sighed. “We’ll go back to the corner of the territory. It’ll be closer to home, anyway.”

Chapter Text

Ivypool shuddered. The mist around her was cold and wet.

“Tonight will change everything.”

Tigerstar’s voice yanked her back to the present. The leader stood on a fallen tree. Shredtail, Hawkfrost, and Darkstripe stared up at him with glimmering eyes while Mapleshade hid in the shadows with Sparrowfeather. Thistleclaw and Splitstar watched through narrowed eyes. Applefur, Hollowflight, and Redwillow clustered together, murmuring excitement. Birchfall and Beetlewhisker sat beside Tigerheart and Furzepelt.

Tigerstar’s eyes gleamed. “This mission will be the first of many.”

Ivypool leaned over to Blossomfall. “The first of many what?” She hadn’t been listening.

Blossomfall whispered in her ear. “Special patrols. Tigerstar wants to take us through the Clan territories.”

Ivypool swallowed nervously.

“Knowledge is power,” Tigerstar went on. “Knowledge of the battle field will give you a great advantage. Your enemies won’t expect you to know their land. I’ll be taking you each to visit the territories so you can scout out the best places to fight.”

“Where to stage an ambush!” Redwillow added.

Hollowflight raised his hand. “Where to corner our enemies!”

Blossomfall’s eyes shown. “We’ll be able to fight for whichever Clan needs help.”

Ivypool jolted, but didn’t look away from Tigerstar. “Which territory will we start with?” she called.

Tigerstar gave her a sweet smile. “ThunderClan.”

“I’d love to see it,” Mapleshade chirped.

“Me too!’ Sparrowfeather stood up.

Tigerstar narrowed his eyes. “Any other volunteers?”

Tigerheart and Furzepelt raised their hands.

Tigerstar nodded. “Beetlewhisker and Hollowflight will accompany us as well.”

Ivypool stood up as well. “I think Birchfall and Redwillow should go as well. And Blossomfall.” She stared straight at Tigerstar, willing him to refuse. If the others realized he was only showing ThunderClan to the other Clans, they might work out that he was endangering them.

Tigerstar nodded. “Good idea, Ivypool. You’ll come, too. You can be our guide.” He nodded to Splitstar. “Gather One Eye and the other senior warriors. I’ll report back to you all.” He stepped down from the log and headed into the trees.

Ivypool followed, glancing over her shoulder. She wanted to remember this route. They walked through gloomy glades, past dark bogs and across muddy streams. The earth went from mossy to grassy. Above, Ivypool could make out the branches and their green leaves. The moon shone in a wide, starry sky.

Ivypool didn’t recognize this place. But as they climbed the slope, brambles began to crowd the trail. These trees were familiar. They came across a patch of ferns with a ThunderClan border marker stabbed into the middle.

“It’s so dark,” Hollowflight growled. “How can you stand this place?”

“It’s good for hiding,” Ivypool murmured. “And it’s hard for our enemies to fight in the crowded space.”

Redwillow fell in beside them. “Thanks for getting me on this patrol,” he whispered. “The more I learn, the closer I am to being a real Dark Forest warrior.”

“Do you really want that?” Ivypool asked.

“Of course! Dark Forest warriors are strong and brave,” Hollowflight said. “And they don’t care about stupid rules.”

Redwillow nodded. “My Clanmates are all cowards. The Dark Forest is teaching me how to really fight.”

“They make us stronger than we could have dreamed,” Hollowflight agreed.

“I wish they were all still alive, so they could share their moves with everyone else,” Redwillow added.

Ivypool tried to hide her horror. “Yeah. I suppose so.”

Tigerstar stopped at the top of the slope. “See how thick the trees are?” He pointed to a copse of sturdy beeches. “This is why we teach you to climb. ThunderClan fights in the trees.” He looked at Blossomfall. “Explain it to them.”

Blossomfall pushed to the head of her patrol, her head held high. “All ThunderClan apprentices are taught to climb so we can drop on our enemies from above and move through the forest by jumping from branch to branch.”

“SquirrelClan,” Redwillow murmured.

“We move like squirrels,” Blossomfall said, “but we fight like bears!”

Ivypool had to look at the ground. Blossomfall were giving away all of ThunderClan’s secrets! “We don’t do much of that anymore,” she lied quickly.

“That’s not true,” Blossomfall said. “Bumblestripe went with Dovewing and Brambleclaw to practice this morning.”

Ivypool caught Birchfall’s gaze and was relieved to see her father frowning. “They don’t need to know everything, Blossomfall,” he cautioned.

Tigerstar’s eyes narrowed. “Don’t worry, Birchfall. You’re among friends. Secrets aren’t necessary.”

Mapleshade joined Tigerstar’s side. “Perhaps Birchfall doesn’t feel like he’s part of our Clan.”

“Of course he does!” Ivypool growled.

“Then why doesn’t he tell us something about ThunderClan,” Tigerstar invited.

“I-it’s all trees,” Birchfall began, obviously uncomfortable. “But the slopes that lead to the WindClan stream are open.”

“Is it better to fight in the trees or in the open?” Tigerstar pressed.

Birchfall glanced nervously at Furzepelt. “ThunderClan fights better in the trees. We use the undergrowth to trip our opponents.”

Ivypool quickly stepped in front of her father. “Why don’t you tell us about your land, Beetlewhisker?”

Beetlewhisker stood up straight, eager to share. “We have pine trees instead of oak.”

Suddenly, Brambles swished at the bottom of the slope. Ivypool stiffened. “Someone’s coming!”

She could make out Spiderleg through the trees. Brambleclaw followed him.

“You’re sure you heard voices?” Brambleclaw asked.

“I was guarding the entrance when I heard footsteps,” Spiderleg explained. “But I thought it might be a deer. Then I heard voices. Coming from over here.”

“It better not be WindClan again,” Brambleclaw growled. “We should check the tunnel entrances.”

“But I heard it over here.” Spiderleg disappeared back up the slope, hastily following Brambleclaw.

Ivypool turned on Tigerstar. “We need to leave!”

“We can’t miss out on an opportunity to practice our battle skills,” Tigerstar growled. “We follow them.”

“No!” Fear shot through Ivypool. “We need to leave!”

“Are you scared?” Tigerstar sneered.

Ivypool’s panic was threatening to spill over. “If they fight us, they’ll start sending out night patrols. We’ll lose the element of surprise during the final battle.”

Tigerstar narrowed his eyes. “Very well.”

Ivypool sighed in relief as Tigerstar signaled for the patrol to retreat, leading them along the slope. Swallowed by brambles and juniper, Ivypool kept low, glancing over her shoulder to check on the rest of the patrol. The undergrowth grew dark and when she looked up, she couldn’t find the moon. The ground was muddy underfoot and ferns gave way to tangled thorns.

They were back in the Dark Forest.

Tigerstar stopped, letting the patrol fan out.

“Why didn’t we stay to fight?” Mapleshade growled, stepping in front of Tigerstar.

“We were there to learn, not fight,” Blossomfall said.

Redwillow’s eyes were shining. “I’ve never been that deep into the oak forest. I can’t wait to show you all ShadowClan’s land. It’s totally different.”

“So is RiverClan’s,” Hollowflight chimed in. “The reed beds are perfect for laying low to ambush.”

Sparrowfeather’s eyes glimmered. “I’m looking forward to learning all your lands.”

Ivypool was glancing around nervously. Suddenly, a hand grabbed her shoulder, jerking her around. She found herself staring in Tigerstar’s cold brown eyes. “Don’t ever challenge me like that again.”

Ivypool tried not to wince as he squeezed her shoulder. “I was trying to protect the patrol.”

Birchfall darted forward, grabbing Tigerstar’s wrist. “Leave her alone! She was trying to help.”

He yelped in pain as the back of Tigerstar’s hand smacked into the side of his face. He took a few steps back.

Quickly, Ivypool stepped in front of him while he nursed his already bruising cheek. “We accomplished what we wanted. You all got to see ThunderClan’s land. That’s all you wanted, right?”

Tigerstar’s eyes were narrowed. “Right,” he gritted out.

“Back already?” Splistar greeted when they returned to the training rock. “How did it go?” Other Dark Forest warriors were waiting. On top of the rock, Ivypool could make out the fading figure of One Eye.

“What is it like?” Shredtail growled.

“Did you see the stars?” Darkstripe mocked.

Ivypool gazed around the faces of these criminals, and thought of her Clanmates sleeping peacefully in the hollow. They had no idea they were in danger. Her heart ached with pity.

She had to protect them. As long as she lived and breathed, and even after, she’d protect them.

Chapter Text

Jayfeather could feel the warmth of the sun disappearing as it slid behind the trees.

“They must have been rogues,” Brambleclaw said from beneath the Highledge.

“But Spiderleg thought he sensed RIverClan,” Firestar pointed out.

“Have the other Clans formed an alliance against us?” Sandstorm asked.

Jayfeather felt the tension inside Firestar begin to snap. Would he tell the senior warriors about the Dark Forest?

“Why would they?” Firestar asked.

“We don’t know yet,” Graystripe said. “But it’s something we should prepare for.”

“Yes,” Firestar agreed slowly. “Brambleclaw, organize more daytime patrols. And we’ll begin midnight patrols again.”

“Midnight patrols?” Brambleclaw sounded surprised. “The whole Clan will know something is wrong.”

“They must be prepared,” Firestar said grimly.

Jayfeather let his attention drift away and sweep the rest of the Clan. Briarlight was wheeling toward him. Her arms were growing muscular as she got used to carrying herself around. “I’m gonna take a nap.”

Concerned, Jayfeather followed into the hut. “You seem tired. Are you alright?”

“I’m fine.” She was already lifting herself into her bed. “Mama and Whitewing were helping me with a new exercise. They had me hang from a beech tree and try to pull myself up.”

Jayfeather frowned. He hadn’t ordered that. It was fine for any warrior to warm up like that, but Briarlight was carrying a lot of dead weight with her and could strain herself.

“It felt good to be high up,” Briarlight said. “I could feel the wind.”

“That’s good.” He’d have to talk to Bellsong about it. He didn’t want to discourage Briarlight.

“Are you okay?” Briarlight asked. “You’ve seemed distracted lately.”

“Just tired,” he lied. “There’s too many kids in this Clan.” He headed for his bed. He flopped down and closed his eyes.

The Dark Forest flashed into his mind. Eyes stared at him from the shadows. Beyond, he could imagine the massive army.

“Borage leaves cure fever. Catmint cures greencough.” He began murmuring the remedies in his head. “Dock soothes scratches. Feverfew cools fever.”

“Can’t StarClan guide you?” Mapleshade sneered.

“Comfrey mends broken bones.”

“We will be victorious!” Hawkfrost shouted.

“Mouse bile gets rid of ticks.”

“The power of the stars in your hands, huh?” Tigerstar jabbed.

“Marigold stops infection. Coltsfoot eases breathing. Poppy seeds are good for sleep.”

When he blinked open his eyes, he could see the dense green forest all around him. He was dreaming of ThunderClan’s land. He looked up and saw the stars glimmering beyond the leaves.

The ferns behind Jayfeather rustled. He turned.

Dovewing slid out from the shadows.

“Jayfeather?” Lionblaze followed her. “You’re here, too?”

“Of course he is.” Hollyleaf appeared from behind him. “Did you think it would just be us three?”

“We must be dreaming,” Jayfeather said.

Lionblaze frowned. “You’re walking in our dreams?”

“No, we’re sharing one,” Jayfeather said. “I didn’t do this.”

“Why are we here then?” Dovewing asked.

Jayfeather was wondering the same thing. Suddenly, he heard a rumbling from behind and spun around.

A hole was opening up in the ground, like a yawning black mouth. The dirt and grass fell into the cave below, disappearing.

“That’s something,” Hollyleaf said, gently pushing past Jayfeather to lead the way.

“Wait!” Lionblaze quickly followed her.

“Come on,” Dovewing said to Jayfeather. “This must be what we’re here for.”

Jayfeather followed her into the tunnel. “I’ll lead,” he said, quickly pushing past Hollyleaf.

“How?” Lionblaze asked. “You can’t see down here.”

“I can always see in my dreams.” Jayfeather met his eyes.

Lionblaze looked shocked. “You can see right now? You can see what we look like?”

“Yes,” Jayfeather answered.

Lionblaze blinked. “Do you think I should grow a beard?”

“Lionblaze!” Hollyleaf snapped. “Not now.”

“He’s one of the only people I can ask,” Lionblaze said. “Dad just says ‘do what makes you comfortable.’ But I don’t want comfort, I want to look cool. I don’t have enough strong masculine figures in my life and I feel like that’s negativity effecting-”

“Now is not the time to be having this conversation,” Jayfeather groaned.

“You’re not the boss,” Lionblaze growled.

“Then why are you asking my opinion?”

“Enough!” A shriek bounced off the walls of the tunnel. Jayfeather hadn’t noticed them reach a cavern. The voice had come from above. A figure stood on the ledge that jutted out from the cave wall.

The man looked horrid and grotesque. His skin seemed to stick to his bones and his eyes bulged from his head like two white eggs.

“What is that?” Dovewing squeaked.

“The Chronicle,” Jayfeather said, gazing at the ancient man. He hadn’t seen him in years.

The man’s voice rasped. “I’ve had enough of your childish squabbles! You have a destiny to fulfill and you’re wasting time with nonsense!”

“Is he a StarClan warrior?” Lionblaze whispered.

“He looks like a skeleton!” Hollyleaf observed.

“No!” The Chronicle growled. “I am older than StarClan. I am as old as these caves.”

Confusion flooded the cavern, coming from the other three. “How do you know him?” Lionblaze murmured.

The Chronicle leaned over the ledge. “Jayfeather and I have known each other for many years.”

“Can he even see us?” Dovewing was staring at The Chronicle’s bloated eyes.

The Chronicle straightened. “I never realized the others were so dull. I didn’t summon there here to stand around asking stupid questions.”

“You’re the one who summoned us?” Jayfeather asked.

The Chronicle blinked. “Did you think you were the only one with power over dreams?” he sneered. “Fools! You are all part of the Three, although there is four of you now. You should be helping your Clans! Not fighting like children.”

“We’re not fighting like children,” Lionblaze growled defensively “I have a right to be angry at him.” He pointed at Jayfeather.

“You do,” The Chronicle agreed. “But now is not the time! The Dark Forest is rising. You must use your powers to defeat them! If you four can’t unite, how will you expect the Clans to?”

“We are united,” Hollyleaf said. “Even StarClan squabbles occasionally.”

“Not during times of war,” The Chronicle insisted. “Now is not the time for grudges and pointing fingers. You must unite the Clans!”

“How can we?” Jayfeather snapped. “You always tell me what to do but not how to do it. We wouldn’t even be fighting right now if you’d just tell me what to do.”

“I’m not you babysitter,” The Chronicle retorted. “I can’t hold your hand your entire life. You are more powerful than the stars! You should know how.”

“Well we don’t!” Lionblaze growled. “Now I get why Jayfeather has been so bossy. You’re the one pressuring him!”

“Yeah,” Dovewing agreed. “Why should we listen to you? All you’re doing is yelling at us.”

“You’re not part of StarClan,” Hollyleaf added. “We can’t trust you.”

The moonlight flickered as though clouds were passing over the hole in the roof. Jayfeather noticed eyes blinking from the darkness below the ledge. A huge figure stood there. For a moment, Jayfeather recoiled at the sight of the bear’s head, then relaxed.

“Is that Midnight?” Dovewing whispered. “From the nursery stories?”

Jayfeather nodded.

The woman wore a brown cloak made from bear skin, the chin of the bear resting on the top of her head. Its eyes gleamed green, replaced with emeralds. Below, the woman was pale, with gray, springy hair. Gems and jewelry glittered around her neck and on her arms.

“You are joining together to fight someone you do not trust,” she said with an amused smile. “Uniting is easy, when you have a common enemy, is it not? Show this to the Clans. Teach them to trust each other when they cannot trust another.”

“Thank you, Midnight,” Hollyleaf said first. The others joined in.

Jayfeather was silent for a long moment. Was that it? There was nothing else to tell? He glanced at Lionblaze. They hadn’t really made up. He was sure his brother was still angry.

But it was pushed aside for now. After all, how was Lionblaze going to beat the crap out of him if they were both dead?

Chapter Text

Dovewing peered out of the hut. The camp smelled of wet leaves. “The rain stopped.”

“Finally.” Ivypool was laying in her bed, one arm thrown over her eyes.

“Finally,” Dovewing agreed. Clouds still covered the sky, but a sharp wind was pushing them away. “It’ll clear up by tonight.” There would be a Gathering after all. The past few days had been stormy and cold. She hadn’t been able to see Tigerheart since before dreaming of The Chronicle.

She stood recoiled at the memory. What a grotesque person! But she wished she could have talked to Midnight longer. She had carried an aura of power and knowledge.

Bumblestripe suddenly blocked her view. “Hi, Dovewing. Do you want to come eat with me.”

“No thanks,” Dovewing said, peering around him to look at the sky. With all the rain, she hadn’t been able to meet with Tigerheart.

“You sure?” Bumblestripe asked. “You must be hungry.”

“I’m fine,” Dovewing said. On the other side of the clearing, Firestar and Sandstorm had just emerged from their cave. “We’ll be leaving soon anyway.” She glanced at Ivypool. Just as she had been confined to camp due to the weather, so had her sister, which gave her plenty of time to catch up on sleep.

She hoped Brambleclaw would let her come to the Gathering. He had sent her to Jayfeather that morning, noticing how sick and pale she looked.

When Dovewing turned around to check on her, she found Ivypool asleep again, snoring lightly. Perhaps it was best for her to rest. She slid out of the hut and joined Lionblaze at the thorn barrier. Cloudtail and Foxleap were already there. Cherry and Mole were playing nearby.

“Wait for me,” Rosepetal called, hurrying to catch up. “Bumblestripe’s insisting we still have that bowl of strawberries Sandstorm brought in yesterday.”

Dovewing giggled. “I’m pretty sure Graystripe got to that last night.”

Bumblestripe was rummaging through the bowls and pots by the firepit, lifting up lids to check what was inside. Each time, his eyes lit up, only to drop as he frowned.

“Surely Graystripe couldn’t eat an entire bowl by himself,” Dovewing said.

“Don’t underestimate a big man’s appetite,” Cloudtail teased, patting his own stomach.

Firestar led Sandstorm down from the Highledge. “We should leave.” He looked up at the moon. “The break in the clouds might not last long.”

Brambleclaw emerged from the nursery, then followed Firestar across the clearing. Squirrelflight soon appeared as well. “Are you coming to the Gathering, Cinderheart?”

Cinderheart’s voice came from inside. “Not tonight. I’m feeling tired.”

“Is Jayfeather coming?” Lionblaze asked as Firestar passed. Jayfeather stood at the entrance to the healer’s hut, then brambles draped over his shoulders.

Firestar shook his head.

“But no Clan goes to the Gathering without their healer,” Lionblaze objected.

“He’s not our healer as far as the other Clans are concerned,” Brambleclaw murmured.

“The other Clans can’t tell us what to do,” Lionblaze growled.

“I agree,” Firestar said. “But this isn’t a battle worth fighting.”

“Couldn’t Cinderheart take his place?” Rosepetal asked. “She used to be a healer.”

Cinderheart poked her head out of the nursery.

“No,” Firestar said. “Cinderheart hasn’t fully chosen to be a healer yet, and I don’t want the other Clans thinking of her like that.”

Cinderheart sighed in relief.

Firestar led the patrol out of camp and into the forest. Dovewing slipped on the wet leaves. Blossomfall, who was beside her, quickly grabbed her arm. Dovewing saw movement from the corner of her eye and turned to see Bumblestripe fall in beside her, matching her pace. She picked up her pace, but no matter what he wouldn’t leave her side. She veered around a bramble, sliding into his way so he had to drop back.

She reached the top of the slope first, breaking out of the trees. She prayed that Tigerheart would be at the Gathering.

“Tired yet?” Rosepetal asked.

“I’m not!” Blossomfall skidded past them.

Bumblestripe, panting, pulled up to Dovewing’s side. “You nearly pushed me into a tree!”

“You should have watched where you were going,” Dovewing growled. “You nearly tripped me.” She stomped away.

“Why do you have to be so rude?” Rosepetal whispered. “He’s not doing anything wrong. He just likes you.”

“If he likes me, he shouldn’t be treating me like a child!” Dovewing snapped.

“You’re the one biting his head off,” Rosepetal retorted.

Dovewing narrowed her eyes. “Talking to him shouldn’t have to feel like walking across thorns. I can’t do anything right by him!”

“You should feel lucky you have someone so handsome pining after you,” Rosepetal said.

Dovewing blinked, shocked. “Rosepetal. Do you like Bumblestripe?”

Rosepetal blushed. “N-no! That’s not what I meant.” She quickened her pace, leaving Dovewing behind.

Dovewing winced. Was Rosepetal right? Was she being mean to Bumblestripe? If she was, than he was doing it right back! Rosepetal hadn’t seen Bumblestripe during training sessions or on hunting patrols.

She strayed to the back of the patrol, wanting to be alone. She tried to block out the gossip from her Clanmates as they reached the tree bridge. As the others filed across, she tried to reach out her senses and find Tigerheart. But she couldn’t pick him out among the sea of people.

Dovewing pushed into the main clearing. The other Clans peered at ThunderClan curiously.

“Did he come?” Starling from ShadowClan whispered to Clover.

“Can you see him?”

“Surely he wouldn’t.”

Dovewing stiffened. “Who are they talking about?” she whispered to Whitewing.

Whitewing’s head was high, but her eyes were narrowed. “Jayfeather.”

Dovewing followed her mother past staring eyes, joining Blossomfall and Squirrelflight. Firestar shouldered his way to the front, heading for the Great Oak. Brambleclaw joined Reedwhisker, Rowanclaw, and Ashfoot on the roots, while Mole and Cherry raced over to join a cluster of younger apprentices. Dovewing scanned the crowd, looking for Tigerheart.

Littlecloud, Kestrelflight, and Willowshine were gathered below the Great Oak, murmuring. Dawnpelt wasn’t far away, looking in the other direction but obviously trying to eavesdrop.

“She’s probably waiting for them to say something she can use against Jayfeather,” Dovewing murmured.

“She’s right to,” Redwillow growled. “Flametail must be brought to justice.”

Dovewing turned on him. “Jayfeather’s not a murderer.”

“Then why isn’t he here?” Pebblefoot growled. “Too guilty to show is face?”

“You told him not to-”

“Dovewing, come here,” Whitewing said, grabbing her arm and pulling her away. “I don’t know if the other Clans will remember the truce.” She glanced up a the full moon. A thin cloud had drifted across it.

“But it’s not fair,” Dovewing whispered. “They told Jayfeather not to come, and now they’re using it to prove he’s guilty!”

Whitewing put a hand on Dovewing’s shoulder. “They’re just trying to provoke us.”

“But why?” Dovewing asked. “We haven’t done another-”

She was cut off by a call from the Great Oak. “Let the Gathering begin!” Blackstar shouted. His gaze swept over the Clans. “Thank you, Firestar. You have followed the wishes of the Clans and kept Jayfeather confined to your camp until we discover the truth of Flametail’s death.”

Dawnpelt was beaming.

Spiderleg raised his hand. “How will the truth be known?”

“StarClan has yet to speak to us,” Littlecloud admitted.

Blackstar simply nodded and sat back down. Onestar stepped forward next.

“WindClan has enjoyed good hunting,” he announced. “We are ready for the cold season.”

Mistystar nodded. “RiverClan, too. Summer filled the lake with fish and we are healthy.”

“StarClan has blessed all the Clans this Summer,” Firestar agreed.

Dovewing saw unease flicker in his gaze.

“RiverClan has only had one concern,” Mistystar said. “There have been traces of rogues on our land. No one has been spotted, but we’ve found aura trails and footprints.”

Dovewing froze, remembering all the nights she’d spent with Tigerheart. Then she relaxed. There was no way they’d ever roamed as far as RiverClan.

“Strangely, we’ve found no trails across our borders,” Mistystar said. “It’s as if the trespassers simply appeared on our land.”

Whitewing leaned closer to Dovewing. “Perhaps the tunnels reach into RiverClan’s land,” she whispered.

Dovewing knew that wasn’t it. She saw the sudden look of horror that Firestar and Blackstar exchanged. Would they announce what they knew about the Dark Forest?

“We have also seen signs of intruders,” Firestar began. “They come at night, and have
evaded our extra patrols.”

“We’re experiencing the same thing,” Onestar announced.

“So have we,” Blackstar murmured.

“But has anyone actually seen anything?” Firestar asked.

Blackstar shook his head. “We’ve sensed them. We’ve found footprints and broken twigs. All throughout our land.”

“Us, too!” Onestar said. “We can’t find anything at the borders. It’s all on the moor.”

Blackstar looked at Firestar. “Mostly, we’ve found them in the most dense of the forest.”

“As though an enemy is scouting for an invasion,” Firestar commented grimly.

Murmurs rippled through the Clans.

“I found trampled grass,” Heathertail called. “Like it was a lot of people at once.”

Shrewfoot raised his head. “There were footprints near our training ground.”

“I found footprints around our camp,” Dapplenose added.

Blossomfall was looking around. “I don’t think it’s anything to worry about. This Summer has been warm and sunny. Perhaps the townsfolks who use the Summer cabins simply wandered too far.”

“There weren’t rogues!” Rowanclaw shouted. “I could sense RiverClan.”

Brambleclaw nodded. “We found evidence of ShadowClan.”

Blackstar narrowed his eyes. “No ShadowClan warriors have trespassed on your land!”

“RiverClan hasn’t strayed over our borders,” Mistystar growled. “We have no reason to!”

“It’s impossible than all of us are trespassing on each others’ lands,” Firestar reasoned.

“Impossible, but not improbable,” Onestar said.

“Could it be that the rogues are walking through the aura trails along our borders, making them bend and spread?” Firestar suggested.

Mistystar relaxed. “The trails have been confusing. And there’s no signs of the border markers being tampered with.”

“I think we should all set up extra patrols,” Firestar said.

“Send out more patrols!” Crowfrost called.

“We must stay alert!” Pouncetail added.

“And if anyone finds more evidence, we must share it with the other Clans,” Firestar pressed on.

“Yes,” Blackstar agreed. “These rogues could pose a threat to us all.”

Onestar’s eyes narrowed. “We don’t know it’s rogues yet. And I’m not alerting any of you that you’ve been discovered.”

Mistystar nodded. “I look after my own Clan. No one else.”

Dovewing tried to catch Firestar’s eye, willing him to tell the Clans about the Dark Forest. The situation was becoming too dire. If these rogues really were Dark Forest warriors trespassing, as Dovewing believed, and they were scouting out the territories, as Firestar had insinuated, then they only had so much longer to prepare.

Dovewing gasped as Boulderfur barged past her, heading for his Clanmates. The group of apprentices had broken up, leaving Cherry and Mole with nothing to do but return to the ThunderClan warriors. All around the clearing, the Clans were splitting up.

Blackstar jumped down from the Great Oak. Mistystar picked her way down the trunk after her, while Onestar glared at Firestar before stepping down.

“Let’s go, Dovewing,” Whitewing said.

Dovewing looked around for Tigerheart once more. There was no sign of him. “I’ll catch up!” she called to Whitewing as her mother followed Squirrelflight and Blossomfall. She felt buffeted like a leaf in the wind as people moved around her, heading for the tree bridge.

“Dovewing?” The familiar voice came from behind her.

She spun around, her heart leaping. “Tigerheart!”

His eyes were shining. “Finally, I found you!”

“You did,” Dovewing said. “What are we going to do now with all these extra patrols?” Looking into his eyes, she completely forgot about the threat of the Dark Forest.

“We might have to go back to the garden,” Tigerheart said. “But we’ll be quiet this time.”

Dovewing nodded. Then, her heart sank. Looking over Tigerheart’s shoulder, she made eye contact with Bumblestripe. Before she could say anything, her Clanmate walked away.

“Is something wrong?” Tigerheart glanced over his shoulder.

“I’d better go,” Dovewing murmured.

Tigerheart nodded. “Yeah.” He headed away, joining Rowanclaw and Dawnpelt.

Dovewing caught up to Whitewing just as she reached the shore. “Are you okay?” her mother asked.

“I’m fine,” Dovewing said.

Above, sounds rolled across the sky. The wind had lifted, sending crashing waves onto the pebbles. Dovewing wished she could tell her mother everything: about Tigerheart, about the prophecy, about her failing relationship with Bumblestripe. But only one of those topics was appropriate to discuss, and she couldn’t talk about one without bringing up another.

“You know I’m always here if you need me,” Whitewing said, wrapping an arm around her daughter’s shoulders.

Rain hit Dovewing’s face. Her vision blurred, and she tried to convince herself it was just from the raindrops. “Thanks, mom.”

Chapter Text

“Is everyone here?” Splistar’s eyes gleamed from the darkness.

Ivypool lifted her chin. While the living world met for a Gathering under the full moon, the Dark Forest was having there own. The senior warriors had supposed representatives from each Clan to attend. Ivypool was representing ThunderClan. Applefur, who had proved herself worthy of warrior status, stood for ShadowClan, while Breezepelt represented WindClan.

“Beetlewhisker.” Splitstar greeted the RiverClan warrior as he emerged from the trees. “Did you get lost?”

“I was at the Gathering.” Beetlewhisker stood next to Applefur. “I couldn’t get to bed until after midnight.”

Tigerstar had been walking around the edge of the clearing, checking for eavesdroppers. “You can’t be in two Clans at once,” he growled before joining Mapleshade and Hawkfrost.

“Can we start now?” Thistleclaw growled.

Sparrowfeather was sitting at the bottom of the log pile. “What’s this meeting about, anyway?”

Darkstripe walked past her. “Don’t ask such stupid questions. I already told you, we’ve here to praise our brave recruits.”

Splitstar rolled his eyes while Tigerstar shook his head with a sigh, as though embarrassed.

“It’s true, these young warriors have practiced hard,” Mapleshade said, stepping forward. “I’ve been watching them carefully. They climb, run, swim, and fight.” She turned her gaze on Beetlewhisker. “Though not all of them have learned the killing blow.”

Applefur frowned. “True warriors don’t kill.”

Mapleshade turned on her. “Clan warriors aren’t real warriors. If they are, why weren’t you satisfied with their training? Why did you seek us out?”

“You sought out me,” Applefur said.

Ivypool glared at her, hoping to persuade her to sit down before she got herself hurt.

Hawkfrost’s blue eyes glinted. “We recognized your potential and knew you deserved better.”

“That’s right,” Mapleshade chimed. “And you’ve learned a lot.” Her gaze swept all of them.

Ivypool met her eyes bravely. “You taught us well.”

“You have more courage and strength than I gave you credit for,” Mapleshade said. “I’m proud of your progress.”

Ivypool’s heart pounded as Splistar stepped forward. “Our pride isn’t important. Power is important.”

Breezepelt puffed out his chest. “Right!”

“There are difficult times ahead,” Splitstar continued. “But loyalty to the Dark Forest will guarantee your survival.”

“How so?” Ivypool asked.

Splistar turned to look at her. “You will survive any attack from our enemies,” he growled. “Our courage will be tested, but we are ready.”

“What enemies?” Beetlewhisker asked.

“Don’t you know?” Mapleshade growled. “Haven’t your Clanmates doubted you even when your right? Hasn’t Mistystar acted out of cowardice, siding with the weak while punishing the strong? Hasn’t your fellow warriors treated you like a child, even when you are more skilled and dangerous than they could imagine? I don’t know how you can bear returning every sunrise to feed those fools!”

Tigerstar nodded. “If they can’t fend for themselves, they don’t deserve to live.”

Beetlewhisker’s eyes widened. “That’s the opposite of everything the warrior code teaches!”

Splitstar narrowed his eyes. “The warrior codes teaches you to be weak.”

“It teaches us to be strong!” Beetlewhisker snapped. “Thank you for all you’ve done for me, but I’ll never turn my back on my Clan or the warrior code. My Clan thinks it’s being targeted by rogues because of you. They’re frightened by our night patrols. I don’t want to be part of that. I think it’s time I parted ways with you all. You’ve taught me all I need to know.”

Ivypool trembled as he turned to walk away.

Splitstar’s expression was so calm it was frightening. Silently, he raised one hand and snapped his fingers.

Thistleclaw and Darkstripe darted forward, tackling Beetlewhisker to the ground. The RiverClan warrior didn’t have time to block. Darkstripe dove across his stomach, holding him to the ground. Thistleclaw drew his dagger.

The flash of the blade glinted in Beetlewhisker’s eyes. “StarClan help me!”

“StarClan can’t hear you here,” Thistleclaw growled, his voice low. His blade stabbed into Beetlewhisker’s throat.

Ivypool stood rigged as blood pooled around Beetlewhisker. Slowly, he went limp. His arms thumped to the ground.

Splistar smiled sweetly. “Anyone else want to refuse more training? Applefur?”

“N-no.” Applefur didn’t look up.

“Breezepelt?” Splistar looked at the WindClan warrior, who was peering around Thistleclaw at Beetlewhisker’s body.

“Of course not!” Breezepelt lifted his head. “WindClan wastes too much time looking after the sick and old. The Dark Forest is everything I’ve ever wanted.”

Ivypool’s chest tightened and she hoped Breezepelt was just a really good actor. How could he still side with the Dark Forest so confidently after what they’d just watched?

Splistar stepped over Beetlewhisker’s body, his arms folded behind his back. Ivypool held her ground as he walked in front of the living warriors. “You will all stay here. You will all be loyal to the Dark Forest. Or you will die.”

Applefur whimpered.

“Say nothing to the others,” Splistar ordered. “You will flight alongside us. And if I hear any of you spreading rumors among the others, you will suffer a fate much worse than death.” He turned away, rejoining Tigerstar. “Return to your Clans. Tomorrow, we’ll continue training sessions. The final battle is drawing near.”

Ivypool forced herself to meet his eyes. “Yes, Splistar. Whatever you ask.”

Applefur nodded, too afraid to speak.

Hawkfrost looked down at Beetlewhisker’s body, then scoffed. “I never liked him anyway.”

Chapter Text

Jayfeather winced as he swallowed the herbs. The tansy was bitter and he knew he’d be able to taste it all day, but he was determined not to catch the cough spreading through the Clan. “Did you eat yours?” he asked Briarlight.

“Yes.” The wheels of her chair creaked. “Can you grab a pot of water for me? I hate the taste.”

Jayfeather grabbed one and set it in her lap. “Me, too. But the bitter taste keeps the rabbits and mice from eating them.”

The days since the Gathering had been filled with non-stop rain. Now the air was growing chilly as autumn set in. The Clan had been sheltered in their huts, but the cough was spreading from person to person. Nothing serious, but it had Jayfeather on edge.

He had turned Bellsong away yesterday when she’d come to visit Briarlight. He didn’t want to risk the cough getting to the disabled warrior, afraid her lungs wouldn’t be strong enough to fight it off.

Bellsong hadn’t argued, although Jayfeather had sensed her irritation and worry. She wanted to keep Briarlight safe too, but it was hard for her to admit Jayfeather could take better care of her than her own mother.

He felt the leaves he’d lined up. The stock of tansy was lower than he’d hoped. He reached for the mallow, which might help Rusty’s cough. He grabbed the leaves and headed for the entrance. “Stay here,” he ordered Briarlight. “And no visitors.”

“What about my mom?” Briarlight asked hopefully.

“I told her to stay away.” Jayfeather pushed through the brambles. He winced as sharp rain immediately hit his face and headed for the elder’s hut. Murmuring sounded from all the huts, muffled by leaves that had piled against the woven walls. Jayfeather ducked into the elder’s hut.

Jayfeather handed the mallow to Rusty. “Whitewing told me you went out with a hunting patrol yesterday.”

“I was bored,” Rusty rasped.

“And he’s been wheezing since!” Mousefur growled.

“We’ve been stuck inside for days,” Rusty complained. “I wanted to watch the youngsters work.”

“Finally getting tired of me?” Mousefur teased.

Rusty laughed heartily. “I thought you could do with a break from my rambling.”

“Your rambling is the only thing worth listening to around her,” Mousefur croaked.

“Perhaps you should visit the children,” Jayfeather suggested. “Lily’s restless, surrounded by nothing but newborns. And Cinderheart will be due soon. With how big she is, I don’t think she’s having just one baby. It would make sense, since her husband is a triplet.”

“You must be excited,” Rusty said. “They’ll be your family, too. Uncle Plant Boy!”

Jayfeather managed a weak smile, then excused himself, pushing out of the hut. He felt stupid, realizing this was the first time it had occurred to him that this baby would be related to him. Suddenly, his fight with Lionblaze made his heart ache. He hoped he hadn’t ruined a possible relationship with his niece or nephew.

“You alright?” Brightheart’s voice made him jump. “You look down.”

“I’m fine,” he said. “Did you need something?”

“Ferncloud’s feeling under the weather,” Brightheart said. “Cinderheart is with her now. She sent me to get herbs myself, but Briarlight said no one was supposed to go in your hut.”

“I can get them,” Jayfeather said. “Meet me outside my hut in a bit. I have to check on the apprentices.”

He turned toward their hut. Already, he could hear Mole coughing.

“Again, Mole.” Leafpool’s voice came from inside. Mole forced out another cough. “I don’t hear any bubbling. Let’s get you something to drink. You might just have a dry throat.”

Jayfeather huffed, amused. There were more healers than patients!

He pushed into the hut. “I can bring him some,” he said, then walked away.

“That was quick,” Briarlight greeted as he pushed into his hut.

“Between you and the others, I’ve got four assistants,” Jayfeather murmured. He walked over to the store and found a cut of honeycomb, covering it with a laurel leaf. Then he picked a few chervil roots for Ferncloud. With his herbs, he headed back into the clearing.

A familiar aura made him store. Poppyfrost and Brackenfur were pushing into camp, someone else behind him.

Mothwing?

Poppyfrost called to him. “Jayfeather! Mothwing wants to speak with you.”

“RiverClan’s invading!” Lily squeaked excitedly, dashing out of the nursery.

“Not invading,” Brackenfur chided. “She’s just here for a visit.”

Jayfeather hurried to greet the RiverClan healer. He nodded to Poppyfrost and Brackenfur, then steered Mothwing to the edge of the clearing.

Spiderleg was grumbling from behind them. “How come she can stomp across our land when our healer isn’t even allowed at the Gathering?”

Jayfeather ignored him. “What is it?”

“Come with me,” Mothwing said.

Stones clattered as Firestar leaped down from the Highledge. “Is something wrong?”

“I must show Jayfeather something,” Mothwing insisted.

Firestar shifted. “Jayfeather can’t leave ThunderClan’s land.”

“He has to,” Mothwing growled.

“What is it?” Firestar asked.

“Healer business,” Mothwing said, then quickly added, “and I don’t what the other healers say, he’s still one of us.”

“I’d better go see what it is,” Jayfeather said. He followed Mothwing out of camp. What was so important she’d snap at Firestar like that?

Excitement was sparking off Mothwing as she headed onto the beach and followed the edge of the lake, crossing WindClan’s land without pausing. Jayfeather followed curiously. He hardly noticed the rain battering his face.

A shout from the hillside made him jump. Crowfeather! The WindClan warrior was heading toward them, and fast.

“Crowfeather’s leading a patrol,” Mothwing warned. She shoved Jayfeather behind her, waiting for the WindClan warriors to catch up.

“What are you doing here?”

Jayfeather flinched as the sound of Crowfeather’s voice. He could sense Whitetail and Owlwhisker with him.

“He’s not supposed to be out here,” Crowfeather growled.

Mothwing didn’t falter. “We’re on the shore. We’re allowed to be here.”

“You have no reason to be,” Crowfeather retorted. “It’s not the full moon or the half moon.”

“We’re healers,” Mothwing said calmly. “We are allowed to go where we please.”

“He’s not.”

“We should take him back to the birder,” Owlwhisker growled.

Whitetail was calm. “He’s not doing any harm.”

“He’s a murderer!” Owlwhisker snapped.

“Do you believe everything ShadowClan says?” Whitetail replied in the same tone.

Mothwing took a step forward. “Let us through,” she insisted.

“Jayfeather is trespassing,” Crowfeather insisted.

“Touch him, and you’ll answer to me,” Mothwing challenged. “Would StarClan approve if you harmed a healer?”

Frustration flared through Crowfeather. “You can pass. But we’d better not catch you here again, Jayfeather.”

“He’ll have to travel back,” Mothwing pointed out. “Will I need to escort him? Or does WindClan take pride in attacking blind healers?”

“Fine.” Crowfeather backed away.

Mothwing took Jayfeather’s hand and led him along the shore. He kept his head down. Despite being blind, he knew Crowfeather was staring at him. He felt a strange pang of sorrow that his biological father would treat him so coldly, even though all he wanted was for everyone to forget they were related.

“You should have stayed a warrior,” Jayfeather said once they were away from the WindClan warriors.

“Maybe, but now I’m a healer,” Mothwing said in a dark tone. She led him across the RiverClan border and into the reed beds. The ground was boggy and marsh grass brushed Jayfeather’s ankles.

“I smell smoke,” Jayfeather said, stiffening.

“That’s what I wanted to show you.” Mothwing hurried along the path.

Suddenly, she stopped. Jayfeather bumped into her and had to take a few steps back. The smell of smoke was stronger her. “Is there a fire?”

“One of the reeds is smoldering,” Mothwing explained. “And it has been for days.”

“In the rain?”

“The rest of the reeds are soaked, but this one won’t stop burning. But it hasn’t turned to a crisp. It’s just the tip, burning with a small flame.”

Jayfeather leaned closer. The smoke made his eyes water. “How long has it been doing this?”

“Three days now,” Mothwing said.

“It’s a sign!” Jayfeather gasped. “It must be.”

“I thought so. But it certainly can’t be for me.”

“Did you show Willowshine?”

“I tried. But she’s not looking for signs. You are.”

Jayfeather leaned closer to the tiny flame. Suddenly, a vision flared in his mind. Fire shot up in front of him, touching the sky, glowing like an orange tail.

A flaming tail.

Flametail!

“Thank you!” Jayfeather told Mothwing. “I need to go home now.”

“Do you know what the sign means?” Mothwing asked.

“I think so.” It would take to long to explain. Jayfeather needed to get in bed and start dreaming. “But now I can clear my name.”

“It’s about Flametail, isn’t it?” Mothwing said. “He must finally be ready to talk.”

“What do you mean?” Jayfeather asked.

“Well, he did have a pretty upsetting death,” she said. “I imagine he had to take a moment to get settled in StarClan and recover. I figured that’s why he hadn’t come to you or Littlecloud yet.”

Jayfeather blinked. Why hadn’t he thought of that before?

“You should be okay going back on your own,” Mothwing said. “Unless you want me to go, too.”

“I’ll be fine.” He turned and ran, following the same path they’d used to get here.

“I’ll keep watching the flame!” Mothwing called. “When it goes out, I’ll know you’ve found what you’re looking for, and I can keep spreading the warning about the Dark Forest!”

Chapter Text

Jayfeather found himself on a grassy hill, the sky dark with rainclouds. The trees around him were leafless and dead, and the meadow was windswept by the storm. Jayfeather shuddered against the chill and headed for a cluster of trees down the slope.

Muddy footsteps were heading toward him. He turned, and sighed in relief.

“Hello, Spottedleaf.”

“Jayfeather!” She sounded surprised. “What are you doing here?”

“What happened to StarClan?” Jayfeather stared around at the bare branches.

“It’s autumn for us, too,” Spottedleaf said. “The first we’ve ever seen. And winter will follow.”

“Winter in StarClan? That’s impossible! The weather doesn’t even change in the Dark Forest.”

“The stronger they get, the weaker we get,” Spottedleaf explained. “Your Clanmates are losing faith in us- turning on us.”

“I can help,” Jayfeather said. “I must speak to Flametail.”

Spottedleaf looked surprised. “What?”

“I saw the sign?” Jayfeather explained.

“The sign?”

“The burning reed.”

“I didn’t know about any signs.”

“Well someone sent it! Where’s Flametail?”

“Jayfeather. We didn’t send any signs.”

Jayfeather pushed past her. “Well someone did. Just let me speak to Flametail.”

“Alright,” Spottedleaf sighed. “This way.”

They broke from the trees and crossed a meadow. The long grass was flat against the ground, crushed by the wind. Jayfeather winced against the stinging rain, nearly slipping on the rotted flowers. He could hear a river ahead. As they reached the bank, his heart sank. The water was brown and foaming, fully flooded.

“Where is everyone?” Jayfeather asked.

Spottedleaf pointed to a group of people huddled upstream beneath a rocky overhang. Jayfeather recognized his great grandfather, Whitestorm, among them. His snowy cloak was wrapped around himself as he shivered.

“We’re not used to the cold anymore,” Spottedleaf explained grimly.

Longtail was sitting with Whitestorm, staring out at the river. His eyes were a clear brown, but his gaze was clouded with sadness.

“Longtail!” Jayfeather broke away to greet the now young looking elder.

Longtail nodded to him. “It’s good to see you.”

A stout woman with brown hair looked up. Jayfeather recognized her as Brindleface, Ferncloud’s mother. “Are you here to fix our land? Are you going to defeat the Dark Forest?”

Jayfeather avoided the question. “I’m here looking for Flametail.”

“How is Sandstorm and Graystripe?” Whitestorm asked. “We don’t have much time for watching anymore.”

“They’re fine.”

“What about Mousefur?” Longtail looked anxious.

“Grumpy, as usual,” Jayfeather said. He looked at Brindleface. “Ferncloud is basically the leader of the nursery now.”

“What about Briarlight?” Whitestorm asked. Longtail winced.

“She’s well,” Jayfeather promised. “And Cinderheart is going to having Lionblaze’s baby.”

Brindleface’s eyes gleamed. “Congratulations!”

Spottedleaf joined his side. “We should get moving.”

“You’re looking for Flametail, right?” Longtail asked. “The bridge is flooded over. You’ll have to follow the river to the tree stump.”

Spottedleaf nodded and led Jayfeather away.

“Be careful!” Brindleface called after them.

Spottedleaf led the way downstream, following the river across the meadow until it turned and brought them to a distant forest. Finally, they stopped at a tree stump. “The ShadowClan warriors have been hanging around here lately. With how dire the situation has gotten, a lot of people are mostly staying with their own Clanmates, taking care of them.”

Jayfeather blinked. “But StarClan is supposed to be without borders.”

“Things are different now.”

They rounded the trees, nearly slamming into a group of ShadowClan warriors. Russetfur was flanked by Raggedstar and a black haired woman named Hollyflower.

Russetfur’s eyes narrowed. “Spottedleaf.”

“Russetfur,” the healer greeted politely. “Jayfeather wants to speak with Flametail.”

“What for?”

“I received a sign,” Jayfeather explained. “I must talk to Flametail.”

Hollyleaf scoffed. “No one has sent any signs.”

“How would you know?” Jayfeather growled. “It looks like you’ve all be avoiding each other.”

The undergrowth shivered. Jayfeather gasped as Cedarheart stepped out. Hadn’t he just returned to the elder’s hut not long ago? He had already passed?

“Let them through,” Cedarheart said.

“Why?” Russetfur snapped.

Cedarheart’s expression was calm. “They won’t do any harm talking to Flametail.”

“Fine,” Russetfur growled. “We’ll take you to him.”

Jayfeather sighed in relief. “Thank you.” He followed the former deputy through the forest. They emerged on the other side of the trees, dodging around brambles and bushes. Jayfeather could hear running water. Soon, the river appeared before them once more.

“Last I saw, he was hanging out here,” Russetfur explained.

Jayfeather scanned the reed beds. “Do you see him?” he asked Spottedleaf. “Flametail!”

He separated from the group, walking along the river. The ground was growing soft underfoot. Water splashed his feet and he began to struggle through the spongy peat.

“Flametail?” he called again. “Flametail!”

He tried to take another step, but his leg had sank too far into the mug. He tried to tug it out, but the mud sucked harder. His other foot was sinking as well. Unbalanced, he fell to his knees. “Spottedleaf! Help!” Panic flooded him as he handed on his hands, sinking further. Every time he tug out one limb, another was sucked deeper. He was soaked to his waist.

“Jayfeather?” A concerned face under orange hair appeared in front of Jayfeather’s face.

“Flametail! Help me out,” Jayfeather said. “I’m sinking into the mud.”

“Stop moving,” Flametail said.

“What?”

“You heard me. Stop struggling.”

Panic was seizing Jayfeather, but he forced himself to go still. He could feel himself sinking into the mud.

“Pull your hand one- just one! And grab that grass.” Flametail pointed to a tussock of green right beside Jayfeather.

Jayfeather did as he was told, feeling his legs sink further as he ripped his arm from the mud. He grabbled for the grass, gripping it tightly.

“Now your other hand.”

“I can’t!”

“You can.”

Jayfeather struggled, heaving to pull his other arm free. He was completely covered in mud. But, weakly, he gripped the grass with both hands.

“Now pull yourself out.”

Jayfeather was panting. “Help me.”

Flametail’s expression was blanked. “You can do it yourself.”

“Flametail, please!”

The dead healer remained silent.

Fighting his panic and exhaustion, Jayfeather gripped the grass and pulled himself forward. He tried to kick out with his legs, but it only brought him deeper. Remembering how Flametail had told him to stop struggling, he let his lower half go limp, using his arms to pull himself free.

Finally, his chest hit the grass. He remained on the ground, completely soaked, gasping for breath.

“Why didn’t you pull me out?” he snapped once he’d gotten his breath. “You could have helped!”

Flametail knelt in front of him. “Consider it payback for letting me drown.”

Jayfeather dropped his head to the ground, mud splashing on his face. “I’m sorry.”

“I know. I forgive you.”

“Then why haven’t you spoken to the healers?”

Flametail narrowed his eyes. “You’re lucky I even have the ability to. I might be completely gone if it wasn’t for Tigerheart.”

“What do you mean?” Jayfeather pulled himself further from the mud, then finally deflated onto the grass.

Flametail sat down beside him, legs crossed. “Ivypool tried to kill me.”

Jayfeather’s head snapped up. “When?”

“Right after I died,” Flametail said. “I don’t know how, but I ended up in the Dark Forest. She really ripped my throat out! But Tigerheart stopped her.”

Jayfeather tried to think back to when Flametail had died. Had than been before or after they’d recruited Ivypool to be a spy?

“I’m sorry I haven’t cleared your name yet,” Flametail went on. “I don’t know why, but I thought I could get back at Ivypool for trying to kill me. And maybe…I kinda believed Dawnpelt was right and you did help drown me. I know, it was stupid. But I just wanted to be angry.”

“You had a right to be,” Jayfeather rasped. “Your death was unfair. Then to be threatened like that? I’m so sorry.”

“It’s okay. Now get up and come with me. We’re going to tell the healers the truth.”

Jayfeather heaved himself to his feet, swaying.

“Jayfeather!” Spottedleaf had appeared around the bend in the river. “What happened? I wondered away, then heard you screaming.”

“I’m fine now,” Jayfeather said. “But we don’t have time to lose. The sun will be rising and Flametail needs to tell the healers the truth.”

Spottedleaf stopped, then turned back around. “Then let’s go!”

“This way,” Flametail said. “I know where Littlecloud will be.”

Jayfeather and Spottedleaf raced after him, following the tree lines.

“Littlecloud!” Flametail called as they reached the top of a hill.

The ShadowClan healer was standing in a hollow. He jerked around in surprise. “Flametail? Jayfeather?”

“Flametail has something to tell you,” Jayfeather said.

Littlecloud was staring at his former apprentice. “I’ve been looking for you everywhere!”

“I’m sorry,” Flametail said. “I’ve been staying away since I died. But I’m here now and I’m safe.”

“We need to hurry this along,” Spottedleaf said. “We have to visit Kestrelflight and Willowshine, too.”

“Come with us, Littlecloud,” Flametail said. “We’ll save time if we do it together. Let’s go to Kestrelflight next.”

“Head for the gorge,” Spottedleaf said, then raced away.

Jayfeather gave chase, with the ShadowClan healers just behind him. They broke from the pines onto a hillside covered in heather. It rose toward a gray sky. Spottedleaf plunged down the hill. Jayfeather raced after her. The path was steep, leading up another holly, walled by prickly bushes.

“There!” Spottedleaf stopped at a gap. Kestrelflight was standing at the edge of a flat rock. “Kestrelflight! We need to talk to you!”

Jayfeather skidded on the smooth stone, nearly toppling over the drop that the rock overlooked. Kestrelflight was standing at the very edge. Far below, a wide valley rolled toward the horizon, where more storm clouds were brewing.

Kestrelflight frowned. “What’s going on?”

“We need Willowshine!” Spottedleaf said, scanning the valley.

“Right here.” The voice came from behind them. Willowshine was heading across the crest of the hill. “I saw you and wondered what was going on.” She stared at Jayfeather. “Mothwing told me you visited today.”

“I did,” Jayfeather said. “There was a sign for me.”

Willowshine nodded. “Explains why she wanted me to speak with StarClan tonight.”

“Flametail, quick!” Spottedleaf said. “The sun is almost up.”

“Jayfeather didn’t kill me!” Flametail blurted out. “I fell through the ice and he tried to save me. But I was too heavy. It wasn’t his fault!”

“Thank you.” Jayfeather felt sick with relief.

“We knew it all along,” Littlecloud reassured him. “But now we can all confidently tell the Clans.”

“Thank StarClan!” Kestrelflight gasped, looking at Flametail. “I was getting so worried about your silence. I thought it was all true!”

Flametail shrugged awkwardly. “Now you know the truth. Take care of each other. I’ll be watching over you always.”

He met Jayfeather’s gaze. For a moment, he wondered if the StarClan healers would reveal the full threat of the Dark Forest. But when he looked at Littlecloud, he realized the sun must be up.

They were starting to fade away.

“Meet me at the Moonpool tomorrow night,” he said. “All of you. I have something important to tell you.”

“Okay,” Kestrelfllight said.

“I’ll be there,” Willowshine promised.

“Me too.” Littlecloud was completely transparent.

Jayfeather closed his eyes, sighing. The healers were reunited and Flametail was safe in StarClan. A great weight was about to be lifted from his shoulders. He couldn’t wait until tomorrow night.

Chapter Text

Lionblaze walked along the edge of the clearing. Rain dripped off the huts. The clouds had cleared early in the morning. Rusty emerged from the elder’s hut, yawning.

“You’re up early!” he called to Lionblaze.

“I’m waiting for the dawn patrol,” Lionblaze said. He wanted to hear the report.

“You should be resting.” Firestar had just hit the bottom of the rock tumble. “You were on the midnight patrol.”

“So were you,” Lionblaze said. They’d crossed the entire territory with Brackenfur and Sandstorm, and found signs of trespassing in every nook of the forest.

Sandstorm poked her head out of Firestar’s hut. “How can anyone sleep knowing our land is filled with trespassers!” He scrambled down the rock tumble.

Firestar looked exhausted, dark circles forming under his eyes. He met Lionblaze’s gaze. They both knew what these signs meant.

The Dark Forest was scouting them out. They were scanning the territories and preparing an attack. But how could they explain this to the Clan? Lionblaze shivered, remembering sensing Ivypool among the other aura trails that lined the footpaths.

The brambles in front of the healer’s hut rustled as Jayfeather launched out. “Lionblaze!” He joined his brother. “I talked to Flametail last night. He told the other healers the truth. We’re meeting again at the Moonpool tonight.”

“Why?”

“I’m going to tell them everything,” Jayfeather admitted. “Mothwing and I can’t spread the news fast enough. All of the leaders need to know.”

Lionblaze noticed his brother wince.

“Was that something you wanted to discuss first?”

“No, it’s fine,” Lionblaze said. “I think that falls under healer business. And The Chronicle told us now it’s the time for arguing and planning. We need to act fast.”

The thorn barrier suddenly swung open. Brambleclaw entered camp. “WindClan has reset the borders and put a permanent watch on the stream,” he told Firestar. “We should do the same.”

Graystripe, Hollyleaf, Rosepetal, Mole, and Dovewing followed the deputy.

“Let me take first watch,” Graystripe insisted.

Firestar nodded. “Don’t start anything. Bellsong, go with him, and warn us if there’s trouble.”

Sorreltail poked her head out of the nursery. “Is WindClan planning an invasion?”

“We don’t know yet,” Firestar said. “But we’d better prepare.” He gestured for Brambleclaw to follow him and led the way to the Highledge.

Mole bounced at Rosepetal’s side. “Can I go with Graystripe? I have really good hearing!”

“It’s too dangerous,” Rosepetal said. “Go get something to eat.”

Mole stomped off. Meanwhile, Dovewing and Hollyleaf joined Lionblaze and Jayfeather.

“WindClan don’t seem happy,” Hollyleaf said. “They found strange aura trails all over the moor, and claimed they found ThunderClan among them.”

Lionblaze narrowed his eyes. Had Ivypool been there too?

“At this rate the Dark Forest won’t need to attack,” Jayfeather murmured. “The Clans will tear each other apart by themselves.”

“We have to figure out exactly what they’re planning,” Lionblaze said. “Dovewing, go get Ivypool. She’s telling us everything.”

“She’ll still be asleep,” Dovewing said. “I don’t like to wake her.”

“Not my problem,” Lionblaze growled. “Go!”

As Dovewing headed for the warrior’s hut, Lionblaze ushered Jayfeather and Hollyleaf toward the edge of camp. Poppyfrost and Berrynose were relaxing outside the warrior’s hut. Foxleap and Toadstep were chatting while they recooked left overs from the previous night.

“Has Brambleclaw organized the patrols yet?” Foxleap asked. “We’re out of fresh food.”

“I hope so.” Ferncloud appeared from the nursery. “Cinderheart’s hungry, and she’s eating for two! Or four.”

“Four?” Foxleap echoed, shocked. “She’s having four babies?”

“Three, stupid,” Toadstep corrected. “She’s having triplets.”

“Jayfeather’s sure?” Foxleap looked at Ferncloud, who nodded.

Lionblaze’s jaw dropped. “Cinderheart is having four babies?”

“Great StarClan,” Hollyleaf sighed.

Jayfeather winced. “Triplets, I’m pretty sure. You can’t be mad at me, though, because Cinderheart’s the one who told me not to tell you.”

“Then how did Ferncloud know?”

“I don’t know. She’s pretty smart. She probably figured it out herself. She’s basically the ThunderClan community mom.”

The warrior’s hut shivered as Dovewing emerged. Ivypool followed, bleary with sleep.

“You should have told me.” Lionblaze’s heart was pounding with a mix of excitement a fear. Triplets? Him? Fathering triplets?

“Can we have this conversation later?” Hollyleaf whispered. “I thought you wanted to talk about the Dark Forest.”

“What about the Dark Forest?” Ivypool yawned, reaching them.

“You have to tell us what’s happening,” Jayfeather said.

“We know the Dark Forest is responsible for the strange aura trails,” Lionblaze said.

Ivypool dropped her gaze. “Tigerstar takes us to the other territories to learn the best places to fight. He says we need the knowledge in case we have to help the other Clans during an emergency.”

Lionblaze felt anger pulse through him. “Do the other trainees actually believe them?”

“Most of them don’t realize how evil the Dark Forest warriors are,” Ivypool murmured.

“But some do?”

Ivypool’s voice dropped to a whisper. “A few of them know, but they want the Dark Forest to win. They think the Clans are cowards.”

Lionblaze’s eyes widened. How could warriors turn on their own Clans? “Who are they?”

Ivypool didn’t look up. “They might change their minds between now and the battle.”

“Tell us who they are!” Lionblaze growled. “We need to warn their leaders.”

“No, Lionblaze,” Jayfeather said. “Ivypool’s right. They still have time to switch sides. If we condemn them now, we risk pushing them further away.”

Lionblaze glared at him, wishing his brother could see. He hated how Jayfeather was still taking control, but he hated him even more because he was right.

“We all have to do what the Dark Forest warriors tell us,” Ivypool said, her voice quivering. “Or they’ll kill us. They already took Beetlewhisker.”

“From RiverClan?” Lionblaze gritted his teeth. “But he’s only sixteen!”

Dovewing had raised her head. Ivypool stared at her sister, eyes round. Lionblaze knew Dovewing was listening for signs of the young RiverClan warrior.

“He’s gone,” Dovewing reported. “I can hear RiverClan calling for him, but he’s nowhere to be found.”

Ivypool was trembling. “He’ll be trapped in the Dark Forest forever.”

“The Dark Forest warriors must be feeling confident if they’re willing to kill their own recruits,” Jayfeather growled.

“And they’re clearly scouting the lake for the best places to attack,” Lionblaze said. “We need to tell Firestar. Come on, Ivypool.”

He raced for the tumbled rocks. He waited for Ivypool to catch up, then entered Firestar’s hut.

Brambleclaw looked surprised. “Hi, Lionblaze.” He was sitting beside Firestar.

“You should both hear this,” Lionblaze said. “Ivypool has been visiting the Dark Forest in her dreams. She’s been spying for us.”

Firestar stiffened and Brambleclaw’s eyes widened. “What?”

“So they are the ones invading our land each night,” Firestar murmured. “I had a suspicion.”

Ivypool nodded. “Splistar and Tigerstar have been recruiting people from every Clan, training them to be great warriors.”

“Tigerstar?” Brambleclaw looked shocked.

“Tigerstar?” Leafpool’s voice sounded from the entrance to the cave.

“Relieving old memories?” Squirrelflight peered over her sister’s shoulder.

Firestar looked at Lionblaze. “It’s time you tell your parents about your powers.”

Lionblaze looked between all of them.

“Powers?” Squirrelflight repeated.

“Go into the forest and discuss it,” Firestar said. “Meanwhile, Ivypool can tell me everything about the Dark Forest.”

“The Dark Forest?” Leafpool squeaked, exchanging a glance with Squirrelflight.

Brambleclaw stood up. “Come on.”

Suddenly, Lionblaze was a child again. The warrior he’d always seen as his father stepped past him to leave the cave. Quietly, Leafpool and Squirrelflight followed.

Reluctantly, Lionblaze scrambled down the rock tumble and followed them toward the camp entrance.

Jayfeather and Hollyleaf darted over. “What’s going on?”

“Firestar wants us to tell them about the prophecy,” Lionblaze whispered.

He ducked out of camp. Brambleclaw was sitting in a shallow dip beyond the entrance. Squirrelflight sat beside him while Leafpool was just a few steps away.

Jayfeather stood on Lionblaze’s right side while Hollyleaf was on the left. Neither of them were looking toward their parents.

Lionblaze took a deep breath. “A long time ago, Firestar was given a prophecy. He was told that he would have three grandchildren that hold the power of the stars in their hands.”

Brambleclaw stiffened. “You three?”

“There’s four of us now, actually,” Hollyleaf said.

“Dovewing is the fourth,” Lionblaze added.

“StarClan had to adjust the prophecy after Hollyleaf disappeared, in case she didn’t come back,” Jayfeather explained. “But now that she’s back, we’re all part of it.”

“We are destined to save the Clans from the Dark Forest.”

Brambleclaw looked hurt. “Why didn’t you tell me? Is it because I’m not your true father?” He looked at Squirrelflight. “Did you know about this?”

Squirrelflight was frantically shaking her head. “No!”

“None of you knew,” Lionblaze said. “We only told Firestar.”

“Because he figured it out first,” Jayfeather added.

“That’s how you can see memories.” Leafpool was looking at Jayfeather. “I thought it was a gift from StarClan meant to signify your skills as a healer. I could never imagine…”

“You’ve been baring this all alone for so long,” Squirrelflight murmured. “I wish we could have done something.”

“So much makes sense!” Leafpool exclaimed. “This is why StarClan wanted you to be born. All of it was meant to be.”

“Even lying to me?” Brambleclaw murmured

Squirrelflight put a hand on his arm. “No. That was a mistake on our part. But Leafpool’s affair was destined. It doesn’t matter what happened in the middle. Our children are going to be heroes!”

Chapter Text

Jayfeather paced along the edge of the Moonpool. The stone was cold underfoot and the wind howled overhead. It seemed like a thousand years had passed since that morning, when Lionblaze had revealed the prophecy. Hope had sparked from Leafpool while sadness and excitement swirled around Squirrelflight and Brambleclaw.

A pebble clattered beyond the hollow.

“Careful!” Kestrelflight yelped.

“Sorry!” Footsteps stomped down the stone.

“Willowshine?” Jayfeather hurried over to great them.

“We made it,” the RiverClan healer said.

“Why didn’t you wait by the stream?” Kestrelflight asked.

“I wasn’t sure you’d come,” Jayfeather admitted.

Littlecloud walked stiffly into the hollow. “We promised we would.”

“I almost didn’t,” Kestrelflight said. “WindClan is full of sneezing and coughing. It’s getting cold.”

“Anything serious?”

“Nothing more than runny noses and sore throats,” Kestrelflight said. “I left Leaftail in charge of my herb stores.”

“Perhaps you should take on an apprentice,” Willowshine said.

“He won’t need an apprentice if the Dark Forest destroys us!” Jayfeather snapped.

Shock sparked on all of them. “What do you mean?” Willowshine ventured.

“They’ve found a way of crossing in the living world,” Jayfeather announced.

“Into our world?” Willowshine gasped.

“It’s been them all along!” Littlecloud growled. “It’s been the Dark Forest warriors sneaking around the lake.”

“They’re looking for the best places to fight,” Jayfeather explained. “They could attack any day now!”

“We can fight off a few ghosts,” Kestrelflight growled.

Jayfeather leaned forward. “It’s not just ghosts. They’ve been training our Clanmates.”

Willowshine gasped. “This was the warning StarClan gave me! About darkness.”

“They told me that, too!” Kestrelflight exclaimed. “But I didn’t know what they meant.”

Littlecloud’s voice was hardly over a whisper. “Flametail had a warning about this before he died. But Blackstar didn’t believe him.”

“They train our Clanmates in their dreams,” Jayfeather went on. “They’ve convinced them it’s for the betterment of the Clans, that they’ll be made into great warriors. Most of them don’t realize what’s really happening. And if they don’t comply, they’ll be killed. Blood is going to spill from every Clan.”

“What are we going to do?” Willowshine whimpered.

Jayfeather held his head high. “I’m going to stop it.”

“How?” Littlecloud asked.

“Long ago, Firestar received a prophecy,” Jayfeather began. “There will be three, children of your children, who hold the power of the stars in their hands. Those three children were me and my siblings. We each have a special power. I can walk in dreams and see memories, Lionblaze is invincible, and Hollyleaf can detect lies. But now there’s a fourth. Dovewing can hear and see farther than what should be possible. Our destiny is to save the Clans from the Dark Forest. But we’re running out of time. Everyone needs to know the danger. Will you bring your Clans to the island so I can tell them all?”

“But if our Clanmates are really betraying us, who can we trust?” Kestrelflight asked.

“The leaders will listen,” Willowshine said. “I’ll bring Mistystar to the island tomorrow at noon.”

“Blackstar is already aware of the danger,” Littlecloud said. “He had two different healers tell him about it. But I’ll bring him anyway.”

“I’ll bring Onestar,” Kestrelflight agreed.

“And I’ll come with Firestar.” Jayfeather felt determination rising off of all of them. “At noon, they will all know the truth. We must unite. Or we will all die.”

Chapter Text

“Brightheart is pregnant!”

Cloudtail’s delighted cry woke Dovewing. She crawled out of bed and darted into the clearing. The hollow sparkled with dew. Mist hung around the trees at the top of the hollow. The air smelled of leaf rot.

Cloudtail was beaming as he slid out of the nursery. “She’s already five months along!”

“You two need to take a break,” Mousefur teased. “Three children now, all a year apart!”

Dovewing shot her grandfather a smile, but couldn’t share his excitement. Amber’s birth had been rough enough. Surely she was through with having children?

“Congratulations, Cloudtail,” Graystripe said.

“I’m so excited for a new friend!” Lily squeaked.

“It’ll be much younger than you, Lily,” Sorreltail cooed. “But I’m sure you’ll be apprentices together for a bit.”

Firestar jumped down from the Highledge, Sandstorm behind him. “Well will it be due?” he asked his nephew.

“In four months,” Cloudtail announced.

Sandstorm sighed wistfully. “I wish we’d had more.”

“After Squirrelflight, I couldn’t stand another,” Firestar said, one hand on his head.

“I was surprised you had any after all the trouble I used to cause,” Cloudtail joked.

The thorn barrier swung open as Jayfeather hurried into camp. Firestar quickly excused himself, joining the healer.

Mousefur was watching from the elder’s hut. “I’m glad we have Firestar to lead us,” she said. “He’s the best leader we could have asked for.”

Graystripe laughed. “I happen to remember you arguing with Bluestar about letting him join the Clan.”

Dovewing watched as he guided Jayfeather to the shadow of the Highledge. Everyone in the Clans knew he was born in town, but it was still hard to believe it.

“And he proved me wrong,” Mousefur admitted. “I wonder if Bluestar realizes what a blessing he was.”

Graystripe glanced at the sky. “She’s probably watching right now.”

“Get Lionblaze and Hollyleaf.” Dovewing jerked around when Firestar called to her. Heart racing, she poked her head into the warrior’s hut.

“Firestar wants us.”

Lionblaze jolted away. “What’s happening?”

“Jayfeather just got back from the Moonpool.”

Lionblaze shot out of the hut. Hollyleaf followed a bit slower, yanking a wooden comb from her hair.

As they reached Firestar, Dovewing noticed Jayfeather yawning. “Shouldn’t you get some rest?”

“She’s right,” Firestar said. “There’s time for you to sleep before noon.”

“What happens at noon?” Lionblaze asked.

“We’re meeting the other leaders and healers on the island,” Firestar explained. “Jayfeather told the other healers about the Dark Forest. Now the leaders must tell their Clans.”

Chapter Text

Bright sunlight pierced the canopy, dappling the forest floor.

Jayfeather was still yawning as he followed the others out of the hollow. Dovewing’s stomach was churning with nervousness. Suddenly, the battle felt so real. She could almost hear the screams of fighting and the tang of blood.

The warm sun had evaporated the mist from the lake, making th surface glitter. Dovewing reached the bank. Pebbles scattered behind her as she raced to keep up. Firestar had set a brisk pace, skirting the water’s edge. By the time they reached the bridge, Dovewing was panting. Firestar stepped onto the bridge and crossed the water. Jayfeather followed, landing neatly on the far shore.

Lionblaze stepped out of the way to let Dovewing and Hollyleaf go first, then followed.

The island was empty. Lionblaze paced at the edge of the clearing restlessly. Jayfeather sat in the center. Firestar stood on one side of him while Hollyleaf was on the other, watching Lionblaze. Dovewing listened nervously. Finally, she heard Onestar reach the bridge with Kestrelflight at his side.

The WindClan leader kept to the edge of the clearing. “It seems our healers are now in charge of the Clans.”

“They know things we don’t,” Firestar said.

Jayfeather stood up and joined Kestrelflight. “We know the enemy,” he explained. “You do not.”

“Not yet,” Firestar corrected grimly.

Dovewing raised her head, listening. Mistystar was coming with Willowshine and Mothwing. Their footsteps crunched over the shore near the bridge. Blackstar and Littlecloud were already picking their way through the long grass on the island. Dovewing reached out her senses. The RiverClan camp buzzed with activity while StarClan chattered. She reached for WindClan and heard anxious murmurs stolen by the wind.

“They shouldn’t have gone alone.”

“What’s Firestar up to this time?”

“It must be a trap.”

“Firestar wouldn’t do that.”

“Firestar wants to rule all the Clans. He thinks he’s so important!”

Dovewing was surprised by their words. Didn’t they realize the danger yet? If all of the leaders were being pulled away, something was clearly wrong

Blackstar emerged from the grass. Immediately, he stopped. “Why have you brought warriors?”

“I’ll explain everything once Mistystar gets here,” Firestar said.

Blackstar glanced over his shoulder as the bushes rustled.

Mistystar appeared. “Willowshine insisted I come,” she growled. “She says the Dark Forest is planning to invade. Isn’t that stupid?”

Mothwing followed. “Willowshine hasn’t been wrong before.”

“But how can the dead threaten us?”

“Kestrelflight told me they’ve learned to cross into our world,” Onestar said.

Blackstar glanced at Firestar, his anger dwindling. “So it’s true. All of it’s true.”

“We must unite to fight them,” Firestar said.

Onestar scowled. “Is that why you brought warriors with you? To force us to join you?”

“I brought them because they’re part of a prophecy,” Firestar explained. “Many years ago, I was told I would have grandchildren born with the power of the stars in their hands. For a long time, I didn’t know what that meant. But now I do. These four have a special power that will help us against the Dark Forest.”

“Power?” Blackstar leaned closer.

Lionblaze lifted his chin. “I can’t get hurt.”

“I can read minds and walk in dreams,” Jayfeather said.

“I can detect when people are lying,” Hollyleaf added.

Dovewing’s heart pounded as all four leaders turned on her. “I can hear and see things far away.”

“What do you mean?” Mistystar demanded.

“I can hear your camps from here,” Dovewing said.

“You’ve been spying on us?” Onestar growled.

“No!”

“How can we trust you?” Blackstar accused.

Littlecloud stepped in front of him. “That’s not the point!”

Jayfeather nodded. “We were given these powers to save the Clans, not harm them.”

“But what’s the point of these powers?” Blackstar asked.

“And why have you kept this secret for so long?” Onestar added.

“The time wasn’t right,” Firestar snapped.

“And it is now?” Mistystar asked.

“Dovewing,” Jayfeather addressed. “Remember those dreams you’ve been having? The nightmares?”

Dovewing nodded.

“Reach out your senses and try to listen for the Dark Forest.”

Dovewing stiffened. “I can’t do that!”

“Try.”

Dovewing closed her eyes, listening.

Blackstar narrowed his eyes. “What’s she doing?”

“I told you I can walk in dreams,” Jayfeather explained. “But for some reason I couldn’t get into her dreams the last few times. And I think I know why. She wasn’t dreaming. Hearing all those screams…that was the Dark Forest.”

Dovewing reached out from the island, letting her hearing spread into every direction at once. The murmurings of the Clans swept over her. Every movement, every word, it crashed over her, but she kept going. Past the Clans, past the mountains, into the darkness at the edge of the world. Slowing her breath, she forced herself to relax.

A distant shout sounded from far away. Tensing, Dovewing focused on it. The sounds of a forest formed images in her mind. She could see the spongy undergrowth where it grew in heaps. Eerie light glowed on mushrooms and fungi on the tree trunks.

“I found it! This is the place from my dream!”

Onestar gasped. “You can hear the afterlife?”

“Don’t disturb her,” Littlecloud murmured.

“Do you really expect us to believe that?” Blackstar growled.

Mothwing scoffed. “You believe StarClan can watch you from the sky. Can’t a living person do the same?”

“Hush!” Mistystar quieted them.

Dovewing could hear a gruff voice. “Stab deeper! Slice the muscle to weaken your opponent. Drive deep until your shatter bone!”

Dovewing focused on it. She could see a scarred warrior looming in the shadows. A tortured shout was caught on the breeze. “They’re training for battle,” Dovewing whispered.

“They train every night,” Jayfeather put in.

“It’s brutal,” Dovewing continued. “They follow no code. They’re torturing each other.”

A blood curdling scream made Dovewing flinch. But she kept her focus. She could see another man with the scarred warrior. The two wrestled on the slimy ground.

“We’ll gut every Clan warrior who ever lived.”

Dovewing stared at an almost transparent man standing on top of a large, jagged boulder. One of his eyes was scarred over and ugly, glowing brighter than the rest of his entire body.

“I think I found their leader,” Dovewing reported. “He’s addressing some other warriors.”

“What’s he saying?” Willowshine prompted.

Dovewing began quoting the man’s words. “Destroying the pun warriors who huddle like scared mice around the lake will be fun, but when we kill StarClan…that will be our true revenge.” His voice was filled with malicious delight.

A blonde woman was slinking through the trees, complaining.

“I can’t stand this any longer!” she said. “I can’t side with them!”

“Be quiet, Icewing,” her companion, a younger man, chided. “If someone hears you, you’ll be joining Beetlewhisker.”

“I can hear Clan warriors, too,” Dovewing said. “Training.”

She shut it all out, bringing herself to the present. Hollyleaf had moved closer, wrapping an arm around her comfortingly.

“Thank you, Dovewing,” Firestar said gently. She opened her eyes, relieved to see the island once more.

Mistystar was staring at her in dismay.

“How do we stop them?” Onestar asked.

“We fight,” Firestar answered.

“They don’t stand a chance on our land,” Onestar growled. “They’ll all ghosts. None of them know the lake.”

“They do, actually,” Jayfeather said.

“What do you mean?” Mistystar asked.

“They’ve been sending patrols onto our land to scout out the best places to ambush and fight,” Dovewing said.

“Which explains the weird signs of trespassing we’ve found,” Blackstar said.

“They’re more prepared than us,” Lionblaze said. “And more deadly than you could ever imagine.”

“But we found other Clan auras mixed in with the trails,” Mistystar said.

“They’ve been recruiting Clan warriors,” Lionblaze explained.

“Impossible!” Onestar growled. “None of my warriors would betray me like that.”

“It’s true,” Blackstar said. “I didn’t want to believe it either, but look at what’s happened now that I’ve ignored it.”

“They’ve been recruiting warriors from every Clan,” Firestar said grimly. “But we can’t let them know we know. We have to wait and see who they choose when the battle comes.”

Onestar shook his head. “We have to prepare.”

Mistystar looked frightened. “Dovewing, you must have seen someone.”

“They must be punished,” Blackstar growled.

Dovewing held her ground. “I won’t tell you. They haven’t betrayed anyone yet.”

“The Dark Forest has convinced them they’re training to protect their Clan,” Lionblaze explained. “They don’t realize they’re being used.”

“Then they’re fools,” Onestar growled.

“Even so, Lionblaze is right,” Mistystar said. “Until they turn on their Clans, we cannot condemn them.”

“Some are only staying because their lives were threatened,” Lionblaze went on. “They’ve seen how ruthless the Dark Forest warriors are. They’re too scared to disobey.”

“We have to free them,” Blackstar said. “But how?”

“We must all stand together,” Lionblaze replied.

Blackstar took a step back. Mistystar was looking at the ground.

“How can we trust you?” Onestar asked.

Firestar glanced at the healers. “The time has come to fight our greatest enemy,” he declared. “We can fight alone, or stand together. We’re stronger together, just like during the battle against BloodClan, and just like during the Great Journey. We must unite. It’s our last hope.”

Silence gripped the clearing. Overhead, a crow called.

“What do you say?” Firestar asked hopefully. “Are we getting LionClan back together?”

“I suppose,” Mistystar said. “RiverClan will join you in the battle.”

Dovewing let out a breath she didn’t realize she’d been holding.

“WindClan will join you,” Onestar said.

Firestar turned to Blackstar, whose eyes were already narrowed with anger. “Of course I’ll join! The Dark Forest is home to my greatest enemies. I’ll never hesitate to face them once more.”

Firestar nodded.

Jayfeather and Kestrelflight were joined by Willowshine, Littlecloud, and Mothwing. “StarClan will be happy,” Jayfeather said as the others murmured in approval.

Firestar was still facing the other leaders. “We need a battle plan.”

“Where do you think the Dark Forest will attack first?” Mistystar asked.

Lionblaze shrugged. “I wouldn’t be surprised if they attacked everywhere all at once.”

“We need permanent patrols,” Onestar suggested. “We can’t let them continue scouting.”

“We need to protect each other,” Firestar said. “I suggest one patrol in each of our lands made up of warriors from all four Clans. I’ll send three warriros to each of your camps tonight.”

Mistystar stiffened. “Already?”

“We must be prepared,” Firestar insisted. “Will you each send three warriors to
ThunderClan?”

The other leaders nodded.

“How do we know who to trust?” Onestar narrowed his eyes. “Harespring keeps coming home with unexplained injuries.”

“Troutstream has been especially bad tempered lately,” Mistystar admitted.

Onestar glared at her. “I don’t want your traitors on my land!”

“And I don’t want your traitors on mine,” Mistystar retorted.

“We don’t know that they are traitors!” Dovewing explained. “We need to concentrate on the battle, not trying to guess who the enemy is.”

Blackstar frowned. “But what if they tell our plans to the Dark Forest?”

“It’s a risk we’ll have to take,” Firestar growled. “We must trust that our Clanmates will remain loyal to us. Each camp must be defended by warriors from all four Clans. We must keep the children and elders safe.”

“Once the camps are secure, the patrols can draw the attackers away,” Onestar said.

“We’ll need messengers,” Blackstar added. “The camp aides should be in charge of carrying news back and forth.”

“Good idea,” Firestar said, “Everyone, go home. Prepare our Clans for battle. We will fight together.”

As he spoke, Dovewing noticed ferns at the far side of the clearing move. She froze, recognizing those eyes. As Blackstar, Mistystar, and Onestar headed for the long tass, she glanced nervously at Firestar.

“I’ll catch up,” she said.

She waited for her Clanmates to disappear into the grass, then headed across the clearing and tramped over the ferns. Tigerheart was kneeling there, looking up at her wide eyes.

“What are you doing here?” Dovewing demanded.

“Did you really hear all the way into the Dark Forest?” Tigerheart whispered.

“Yes!” Anger surged through her. He wasn’t supposed to be here.

“You never told me about all this. You’re awesome!” He stood up and leaned forward.

She jerked away. “What are you doing?”

He blinked, surprised. “What’s wrong?”

“You!” Dovewing growled. “You’re a Dark Forest warrior.”

“And you have super powers,” Tigerheart said. “So we’re both keeping things from our Clans.”

“I’m about to reveal my secret,” Dovewing growled. “What are you going to do?”

She turned and stalked away, praying she wouldn’t find him when she listened in tonight.

Chapter Text

Lionblaze followed Firestar into camp, breathless. A cold wind had buffeted them all the way home. He pushed through the thorn barrier, Hollyleaf and Jayfeather behind him.

“There’s a battle coming,” Firestar announced.

Brambleclaw jerked away. Daisy poked her head out of the nursery. “Battle?”

Outside the elder’s hut, Rusty and Mousefur leaned close together.

Firestar climbed onto the Highledge. “Let all those old enough to hunt gather to hear my words!”

The Clan was already flooding the clearing, anxious and bewildered. Mole and Cherry stood together, their eyes round. Berrynose joined their side.

Brackenfur hurried to the nursery. “Stay inside,” he ordered Lily and Seed, who were peeking out from beneath Daisy.

The brambles at the entrance to the healer’s hut parted as Briarlight wheeled herself out. Jayfeather and Bellsong quickly joined her. Blossomfall remained with Birchfall and Mousewhisker at the edge of the crowd, glancing at each other nervously.

“People of ThunderClan, we are about to face an enemy stronger than any we’ve seen in the past!” Firestar began. “The danger comes from the dead as well as the living.
The Dark Forest has sworn to destroy the Clans.”

“How can ghosts harm us?” Mousefur croaked.

Firestar met the elder’s gaze. “The warriors of the Dark Forest have found a way to cross into our world.”

Ferncloud gasped.

“That’s impossible!” Cloudtail growled.

“Oh, StarClan,” Blossomfall whimpered.

Birchfall met her gaze. Mousewhisker murmured something and Birchfall quickly waved him away, eyes narrowed in disgust. Mousewhisker backed away, eyes wide.

“You’ve all seen the signs of trespassing on our land,” Firestar said.

“They’re just rogues!” Dustpelt growled.

Firestar met his gaze. “Have you forgotten Tigerstar’s aura?”

Dustpelt stared at him. “I…I thought I imagined it.”

Firestar went on. “We must win this battle, for the sake of every warrior that has ever lived. We must fight alongside the other Clans, because this enemy threatens us all. Tonight, ShadowClan, WindClan, and RiverClan will send three warriors here to help with our patrols. We will send three warriors to each of their camps. Brambleclaw, I’d like you to organize that.”

“How will we protect our children?” Cinderheart waled.

“I’ll give my last breath to protect them!” Lionblaze shouted.

“So will I!” Ferncloud called.

“No one will hurt our children,” Sorreltail declared.

Ivypool walked to the front of the ground. She was trembling. “I know how they fight. I can teach their moves to the Clan.”

Blossomfall pressed closer to Mousewhisker.

“How do you know?” Dustpelt growled.

“I sent her to spy.” Firestar stepped off the Highledge. “She knows more about the Dark Forest than anyone.”

Mousewhisker gasped. “You were spying?”

Cherry’s eyes were wide. “You’re so brave!”

Lionblaze narrowed his eyes, watching each of his Clanmates’ reactions.

“We will win this battle because he fight for our lives and our Clanmates,” Firestar said. “Our enemies are dead. They are motivated only by hatred. And that is their weakness.”

“We can beat them!” Cloudtail shouted.

“I’ll gut any Dark Forest warrior I see!” Mole cheered.

“Then let’s start training,” Firestar said. “ThunderClan will survive!”

The Clan broke into clusters, murmuring anxiously. “We need to teach the elders and children to defend themselves,” Lionblaze told Brambleclaw. “We should give Daisy some basic combat training, too.”

“Good idea.” brambleclaw scanned the clearing. “Thornclaw can train Mousefur and Rusty.”

Thornclaw was speaking to Brackenfur. Lionblaze noticed for the first time that his blonde hair was turing gray.

“We need to prepare for a whole new type of enemy,” Brambleclaw murmured.

“We have to fight just as brutally as Dark Forest warriors,” Lionblaze said. “We might have to break the warrior code.”

“Defend your Clan above all things,” Brambleclaw said. “If that means breaking the code, then so be it. Thornclaw!” he called. “I want you to teach Mousefur and Rusty some moves.”

“Sure.” Thornclaw headed for the elder’s hut.

“Hollyleaf!” Brambleclaw called. “Take Mole, Rosepetal, and Whitewing out of camp and start running every battle move you know. Ivypool will join you.”

“Let me train with Ivypool first,” Sorreltail begged.

“We want to know the Dark Forest’s most deadly moves,” Dustpelt added.

While Brambleclaw organized the training patrols, Lionblaze headed for the nursery. Daisy was just pushing out.

“My babies!” Brightheart was hugging Snow and Amber close. Lily stared at her from Sorreltail’s bed.

“I’ll protect them,” she declared.

“You’ll stay hidden,” Lionblaze ordered. “Mom, do you want to join the training? Sorreltail already has,” he said to Squirrelflight.

“I’ll go after her,” Squirrelflight said. “I can’t stay away from Alder too long.” She was staring down at the tiny baby in her arms. He wasn’t even a year old yet.

“Come with me, Daisy,” Lionblaze said, then slid out of the hut.

“What do you want me to do?” Daisy asked, following.

“You’re going to train with Ferncloud to protect the nursery. You’ve got five children, plus two pregnant mothers to protect.”

“There’s no one more dangerous than a woman protecting a child,” Ferncloud said. “Leave us be Lionblaze. I have this handled.”

“Yes, Ferncloud.” Lionblaze nodded to her. He backed away, then paused. He didn’t recall seeing Cinderheart in the nursery.

He focused, sensing her somewhere around Icecloud and Leafpool. He followed the trail out of camp, breaking into a run as he reached the slope. Leafpool and Icecloud were sparring while Cinderheart watched.

“You need to be quicker,” Cinderheart told Icecloud. “Try using shorter blows.”

“Cinderheart!” Lionblaze called.

She turned. “Hi, Lionblaze.”

“I need to talk to you. Follow me.”

Cinderheart frowned, but excused herself from the training session to join him down the slope.

“Is something wrong?” she asked.

Lionblaze took a deep breath. “I don’t know what’s going to happen during the battle, but I can’t think of a world where you’re not by my side. I know you don’t believe it, but you really do have a choice. If you become a healer, we can’t be together. But you can choose not to. You can choose me and our baby.”

Cinderheart backed away. “It’s not that easy!”

“It is!”

“I can see all her memories,” Cinderheart wailed. “I feel like there’s two souls inside me. How can it be my choice? Doesn’t Cinderpelt get a choice? I can’t make her be a warrior. She was a healer!”

Lionblaze followed her. “She chose you,” he murmured. “She gave you the choice.”

Cinderheart began to tremble.

“You can only live one life, Cinderheart, but you have to decide which. It’s your destiny,” Lionblaze said.

Cinderheart relaxed. “I choose the life of a warrior.” She placed a hand over her swollen stomach, her eyes shining. “And I choose you.”

A breeze stirred the bushes. Lionblaze could see a pale shape appear like a shadow beside Cinderheart. He stepped back in surprise as it peeled away from her and drifted into the wind.

“Thank you,” a soft voice whispered.

“Did you see that?” Lionblaze gasped.

Cinderheart was watching the shadow as it shimmered away. “It was Cinderpelt. She can finally rest in peace.”

Chapter Text

Jayfeather plucked at the comfrey that grew near the camp entrance. Dew was already forming on the soft leaves. The sun was beginning to set. The patrols from the other Clans would arrive soon. He shook out his arms. His entire body ached and his hands were covered in grit after foraging all day.

Bodies thumped to the ground behind him. “Don’t forget what Ivypool taught us!” Squirrelflight called to Dustpelt. “Dark Forest warriors go for the throat. Make sure you’re always guarding your most vulnerable areas.”

Dustpelt scuffed the earth as he struggled to get Graystripe off. “How can I attack properly if I have to defend myself the whole time?”

Graystripe was panting. “Lead with your shoulder and keep your head low.”

Jayfeather plucked one last leaf and piled it into the basket. Taking it onto his arm, he headed back into camp, hurrying across the clearing. Rosepetal and Mole were in the center practicing.

“Never turn your back on a Dark Forest warrior!” Ivypool called.

“Can we try?” Leafpool asked from where she sat with Cloudtail.

Brambleclaw was beneath Highledge with Lionblaze and Hollyleaf. “Sorreltail, Thornclaw, and Spiderleg will go to ShadowClan,” he said.

“Sorreltail?” Hollyleaf echoed. “But she has children!”

“She wants to join the fight,” Brambleclaw said. “Whitewing, Berrynose, and Hazeltail will go to WindClan.”

Jayfeather joined them. “Do you think we’ll be ready in time?”

“We’ll have to be,” brambleclaw growled.

“Where’s Firestar?” Jayfeather asked.

“Setting traps with Sandstorm and Brackenfur,” Dovewing explained. “They’re stretching brambles across paths and hiding nettles in rabbit holes.”

Ivypool’s call cut in. “Balance, Rosepetal! You need to know how to fight both able bodied and with an injury. These warriors want to kill you!”

“How do we kill them?” Cloudtail asked. “They’re already dead.”

Jayfeather frowned. “I know StarClan warriors fade when people forget them,” he recalled. “If StarClan can fade, perhaps Dark Forest warriors can too.” He stiffened when he sensed something dark engulf Ivypool. He stared at her and knew she was staring back when the Dark Forest flashed in front of him.
Antpelt was struggling on the ground. Jayfeather was holding a sword that he forced through the WindClan’s warriors throat. The man beneath him fell limp as blood began to pull around him. His shape began to fade until there was nothing but a scarlet stain on the grass. Jayfeather recoiled, feeling sick.

He was forced from the memory as Ivypool shoved it away.

Brambleclaw carried on. “I’ll send Foxleap, Toadstep, and Rosepetal to RiverClan. They can share Ivypool’s moves with RiverClan.”

“I wonder who they’ll send to us,” Jayfeather said.

Anger flashed through Mole. “I hope they don’t expect us to hunt for them and let them sleep in our beds until the battle starts.”

“Of course they will!” Brambleclaw growled. “They’re our allies. We’ll treat them like Clanmates until the battle is won.”

“I’m not sleeping next to ShadowClan,” Cloudtail murmured.

“Would you rather be sent to fight for RiverClan?” Brambleclaw retorted. “There’s no time to worry about rivalries. We’re facing our own extinction. We’ll fight alongside the other Clans like our lives depend on it- because they do!”

“Firestar also wants the camp aides to serve as messagers between the Clans during the battle,” Lionblaze said.

“Daisy and Ferncloud will be defending the nursery,” Brambleclaw said. “And Briarlight won’t be fighting. We’ll have Mole and Cherry do it.”

“But I want to fight!” Mole called. “It’ll be my first battle.”

“It’s customary for apprentices to act as sentries their first battle,” Brambleclaw said. “And you’re one of our fastest runners.” He dropped his voice down to a whisper. “We need to find out which ThunderClan warriors the Dark Forest have recruited.”

“We could ask Ivypool,” Jayfeather suggested.

Dovewing was passing on her way back from the elder’s hut. She stopped when she heard Jayfeather. “But Firestar said not to-”

“We need to know who the enemy is,” Brambleclaw interrupted. “Ivypool!” He waited for her to join them. “Which ThunderClan warriors are training in the Dark Forest?”

Ivypool took a step back. “I can’t betray them!” she gasped, fear pulsing off her. “They don’t realize they’re doing something wrong. When the battle comes, they’ll come back to our side.”

“We can’t punish them,” Dovewing argued. “They haven’t done anything wrong yet.”

“We’re not going to punish them,” Brambleclaw said gently.

“Tigerstar lied when he recruited them,” Ivypool said.

“I know.”

“And Splitstar threatened to kill them if they left.”

“Then we’ll protect them. Who’s training in the Dark Forest?” Brambleclaw pressed on.

“Birchfall,” Ivypool whispered. “Blossomfall and Mousewhisker, and Foxleap just joined a few nights ago.”

“Cloudtail, Rosepetal!” Brambleclaw called. “Get Blossomfall. She’s training in the sandy hollow. Birchfall and Mousewhisker are hunting. Find them and bring them back to camp. Try to find Foxleap, too.”

Each warrior did as they were told. As Foxleap began toward them, Brambleclaw sat down. “We’ll make them understand. They can be our allies.”

Jayfeather felt strangely relaxed. After years of waiting, it was a relief to finally face the danger. “I should check my herb supplies.” He headed across the clearing with the basket of comfrey. Pushing through the brambles, he walked into the hut. Briarlight was asleep in her head.

“Briarlight?” He touched her shoulder.

She jerked away. “Hi, Jayfeather! I didn’t expect you back so soon. I counted the stocks. We need more marigold and nettle.”

“I can finish,” Jayfeather said. “Get some rest.”

“But-”

“Rest,” Jayfeather ordered. She would need all her strength once the battle began. Briarlight’s bed rustled as she laid back down. Jayfeather listened until her breath evened, then he began gathering herbs from each pile and rolling them into bundles. Each one contained a roll of bandages and the herbs he’d need to treat any injuries. It would save him time during the battle.

“Jayfeather?”

Leafpool’s voice surprised him.

“Can I help?” She stepped into the cave. “When the battle’s done, there will be a lot of injured warriors. I’d like to help. Even if it’s just carrying water.”

“Water?” Jayfeather frowned.

“I know I have no right to ask but-”

“I completely forgot about water!” Jayfeather jumped up. “We’ll need every pot we have. I’ll send a patrol to fill them up. Not just for thirsty patients, but I’ll need to soak some of the bandages to wash the wounds.”

“Everyone’s training or hunting,” Leafpool reminded him. “I can get it.”

Jayfeather paused. “Collect water? That would be a waste of your skills. Mole and Cherry can do it later. I need you here.”

“Really?” Leafpool was shocked.

“You’re more experienced than me,” Jayfeather said. “It would be foolish not to work with you. There will be a lot of injuries, like you said. I’ll need all the help I can get.”

“B-but I’m not supposed to be a healer anymore,” Leafpool stuttered.

“That doesn’t matter right now, Leafpool,” Jayfeather growled. “This is about life and death. I’m not letting the Clans be destroyed over your dumb teenage dream affair.”

“Does this mean you’ve forgiven me?” Leafpool asked.

“Well, I might die in the next week, so sure,” Jayfeather said. “I don’t want to die holding onto a grudge. Now start gathering and arranging the herbs. I want plenty of bandages in each bundle. Remind me to ask Mousefur to make more.”

Aching relief spilled from Leafpool as she sat beside him and began picking herbs out of the pile. Jayfeather reached over her for another handful of marigold. “We’re almost out.”

“We’ll send Cherry for some,” Leafpool said.

They worked in silence until a shout split the air outside the hut. “We can’t find them!” Cloudtail called as he entered camp. “Birchfall, Blossomfall, Foxleap, and Mousewhisker are gone!”

“Are you sure you’ve looked everywhere?” Brambleclaw demanded.

“We scoured the whole forest,” Cloudtail reported. “There’s no sign of them.”

Jayfeather crossed the clearing, seeking out Dovewing. She was resting outside the warrior’s hut.

“Listen for them!” he ordered.

She sat up and stilled as she began to concentrate. Jayfeather knew she was reaching back into the Dark Forest.

“I hear Blossomfall,” she reported. “She sounds anxious. She’s asking if the battle has started yet. Birchfall, Mousewhisker, and Foxleap are with her. Mousewhisker is worried because he doesn’t know when to attack. Blossomfall sounds horrified and Birchfall is saying Splitstar won’t let them escape from fighting at his side.”

“What does Foxleap think?” Jayfeather asked.

“He hasn’t said anything, but I can hear him panting. He’s scared.”

Dovewing shuddered as she brought herself back to her surroundings.

“We have to find Ivypool,” she said. “She can bring them back.”

Jayfeather shook his head. “There’s no time. They’ll have to save themselves now.” He turned and headed back to his hut, listening to the sounds of battle preparation around him.

Would it be enough?

Chapter Text

Dovewing ducked into the warrior’s hut. Ivypool was asleep in her bed, eyes shut tight.

Dovewing sat down beside her and closed her eyes, listening.

“The time has come.” Dovewing recognized the raspy voice of the one eyed man.

His warriors called their approval, shouts echoing through the dead trees.

“This is your last night as apprentices!” The one eyed man declared. His brown gaze gleamed.

“What does he mean, the last night?” Blossomfall whispered. Dovewing could sense her with Mousewhisker, Birchfall, and Foxleap.

Tigerstar had jumped onto a tree stump beside the fading man. “One Eye is right. Tonight, we will sweep away the warrior code that had robbed your people of true honor for too long. For many generations, the Clans have nurtured the weak and rejected the strong. But tonight we will ravage the Clans and destroy any who can’t stand with us. We will build a new Clan where strength and victory are held higher than weakness and failure!”

“Destroy the warrior code!” a warrior called from the crowd.

“The Dark Forest will rule!”

“Follow me!” Tigerstar lifted his voice. “And I promise you more power and freedom than you can imagine.”

Cheering rang through the clearing. With a gasp, Dovewing realized she could sense Sunstrike of WindClan and Minnowtail from RiverClan. They were staring at Tigerstar, their eyes wide with shock. Not far away, Mousewhisker and Foxleap were backing toward the trees.

“The Clans have been flawed for too long.” Hollowflight eyes gleamed “We have to show them that only the strong deserve to live!”

Dovewing felt sick.

Icewing flashed through the crowd. She grabbed Mousewhisker’s arm, pulling him back. Gesturing, she beckoned Furzepelt and Harespring closer. “Don’t let them see you’re afraid,” she whispered. “Keep quiet and do what they say.”

Birchfall opened his mouth to object, but a ragged blonde woman truned to face him, eyes narrow. “I don’t hear you cheering.”

Icewing met her gaze. “We’re planning our strategy, Mapleshade. We’re the ones with the edge in this fight. Our Clanmates trust us.”

“Really?” Mapleshade didn’t seem convinced. “Let’s just hope you’re prepared for the battle of your lives.”

A skinny black haired man pushed through the crowd to join Mapleshade. “How are the recruits doing?” he sneered.

“They’re scared as baby rabbits, Darkstripe,” Mapleshade chortled.

Darkstripe’s gaze swept over the Clan warriors. “They have no reason to be. You’re all on my patrol. And I’ll make sure you fight like real warriors.” His eyes narrowed.

“Where’s Ivypool?”

“She’ll’ be here,” Blossomfall said.

“She should be already,” Darkstripe growled. He glanced at Mapleshade. “I’ve never trusted her.”

Birchfall’s eyes narrowed. “She’s as loyal as anyone else here.”

On the tree stump, One Eye had stepped down. No matter where Dovewing looked, she couldn’t see him. He had been replaced by Splistar and Hawkfrost, who joined Tigerstar.

“Our warriors are ready!” Hawkfrost called. “Death to the Clans!”

“Death to the Clans!”

The chant surged through the trees. Above, the branches rattled. Lightning split the sky.

Tigerstar stepped down from the stump. The crowd parted to let him through as he led the way into the trees, Splistar and Hawkfrost behind him. The Dark Forest army raced after them.

“Death to the Clans!”

“Death to the Clans!”

The storm lit up the forest. Battle cries filled the air. Dovewing could hear footsteps thundering closer.

The Dark Forest was coming.

She jabbed Ivypool in the ribs.

Ivypool jerked awake. “I had just fallen asleep!”

“It’s too late!” Dovewing rasped. “The battle has begun. We have to tell Firestar.” She darted out of the hut, then skidded to a halt.

The Clan watched wearily as Oakfur, Owlclaw, and Crowfrost walked into camp.

“I can’t believe this is happening,” Cloudtail murmured. “ShadowClan warriors staying with us.”

“Welcome, Oakfur.” Firestar sent his nephew a warning glance.

Brambleclaw joined him. “Owlclaw, Crowfrost, it’s good to see you.”

“We have food if you’re hungry,” Lionblaze offered.

“We can hunt for ourselves,” Owlclaw said stiffly.

“There’s no time!” Dovewing cried. “They’re coming!”

Firestar turned on her. “The Dark Forest?”

Dovewing could hear footsteps thundering over the bare earth, then the soft swish of ferns. “They’re in the forest!”

The ShadowClan patrol turned to face the border. Lionblaze drew his sword.

Hazeltail stared at Dovewing. “How do you know?”

“No time to explain.” Jayfeather surged out of the healer’s hut. “Which way are they headed?”

Brambles rustled and leaves crinkled. “I can’t tell!”

Brambleclaw snapped his head up, scanning the cliffs. Dovewing stiffened, realizing the footsteps were close enough for everyone to hear. Firestar swung around to meet the panicked eyes of his Clan. Cherry cowered against Berrynose’s side. Hazeltail and Cinderheart pressed close beside Rosepetal Toadstep. Bellsong stared at the cliffs, rigid.

“It’s time,” Firestar said. “This is it.”

Brambleclaw stepped forward. “Sorreltail, Thornclaw, Spiderleg, go to ShadowClan. Whitewing, Berrynose, and Hazeltail will help WindClan.” The warriors raced out of camp.

Sorreltail hesitated, sending one last glance at the nursery, then charged after the patrols.

“Icecloud,” Brambleclaw called. “Go with Toadstep and Rosepetal to RiverClan.”

Cherry and Mole dashed across the clearing. “Where should we go?” Mole asked Firestar.

The ThunderClan leader thought for a moment. “Mole, head for WindClan then RiverClan. Cherry, go to ShadowClan. Bring back any news you can.”

Poppyfrost intercepted her children as they headed for the thorn barrier. “Be brave. I’m so proud of you.”

She stood aside, her eyes glistening with tears as they exited the camp.

Dovewing glanced around the camp. It seemed so empty with all the patrols gone. Who had stayed to defend it? Above, she could hear people moving around the cliffs. Jayfeather hurried toward the healer’s hut and grabbed a trailing bramble, hauling it across the entrance. Bellsong rushed to help him.

Briarlight called through the barrier. “All the herb parcels are lined up on the wall. I’ve got all the pots we have filled with water from the pool.”

“Push the emergency supplies to the back of the store,” Jayfeather ordered.

Graystripe poked his head into the elder’s hut. “Stay inside!”

“What about the fighting moves you taught us?” Rusty asked.

“Use them if you have to, but don’t enter battle unless it finds you.”

Daisy and Ferncloud stood in front of the nursery. Daisy held a spear against her chest, trembling. “How are the children?”

“In the back, hiding behind the extra beds,” Brightheart called.

“No one will reach them while I’m here,” Ferncloud growled.

“We can’t let them enter camp,” Firestar decided. He nodded to Brambleclaw. “You’ll stay in camp just in case. Choose your patrol.”

Brambleclaw turned to Squirrelflight first. “Will you fight beside him?”

Their eyes met. “Always.”

Brambleclaw nodded. “Dustpelt, Bumblestripe, Leafpool, and Graystripe, you’ll all defend the hollow.”

“Graystripe comes with me,” Firestar put in.

Brambleclaw nodded.

“Where can I go?” Lionblaze asked.

“With me,” Firestar said. “I want you on the front lines.”

“Firestar.” Sandstorm approached her husband. “You only have one more blessing. You can’t risk losing it. Your Clan needs you.”

“They need me to fight,” Firestar corrected.

“What will we do if you’re killed?”

“Fight harder.” Firestar’s green eyes glowed. “I won’t cower in my hut like a frail elder or newborn baby while my Clanmates fight for their lives. I am a warrior, and I’ll die as one.”

Sandstorm let out a breath. “I love you.”

“I love you, too.” Firestar took a deep, shuddering breath. “Stay with Brambleclaw and guard the camp.” He gently cupped her cheek in her hand, pressing a kiss to her forehead, then raced away to join Lionblaze and Graystripe. Dovewing raced after them.

Where had Ivypool gone?

Heart pounding, she broke into the forest. Firestar had stopped, holding up one hand to ask for silence. The patrol clustered around him. Above them, the forest shivered. Dovewing held her breath. Firestar pointed one way, then the other, signaling for the patrol to split up. Dovewing shuffled after Graystripe and found herself between Cloudtail and Crowfrost. The ShadowClan warrior smelled of pinesap. Firestar nodded for Graystripe to follow the slope around one side of the hollow, then he headed in the opposite direction.

Dovewing jolted when Firestar beckoned her closer. “Where are they?”

She stretched out her hearing. A shriek came from the ShadowClan border. On the moor, heather swished as people pushed through. Beyond the lake, reeds snapped. “They’re everywhere,” she breathed. “They’re attacking everyone at once.”

Firestar nodded. “I expected as much.” He leaned down to listen in her ear. “Stay strong. Good luck.” He gave Graystripe one last look, then threw his arm up, signaling an order.

The fighting would soon begin. Dovewing took a deep breath.

This was it.

The Dark Forest battle was starting.

Dovewing clenched her hands into fists, hoping they really did hold the power of the stars. She sent a silent prayer to StarClan, then turned and followed the patrol.

A thorn stabbed her leg. She stumbled, yelping.

“Are you okay?” Cloudtail asked.

“Tripped,” she answered.

Cloudtail wrapped an arm around her, helping her steady. She could feel him trembling. “Are you okay?”

“Yes.” He swallowed. “I never…I never thought this was possible. We’re about to be attacked by ghosts.”

Dovewing suddenly remembered Cloudtail didn’t believe in StarClan. It was the only part of his townbirth he carried with him. “I don’t think anyone believed this was possible.”

Footsteps skidded ont he slope above.

“We’re okay! Just-” Dovewing froze, recognizing the gleaming brown eyes of Darkstripe. “Look out!” she screamed in warning, but Cloudtail had already drawn his dagger.

The two slammed into each other. “Darkstripe!” Cloudtail growled. “I’m not surprised to see you among these traitors.”

“So you finally believe in StarClan, couthy?” Darkstripe challenged.

“I believe in evil!” Cloudtail slashed at Darkstripe. Blood spattered the brambles as he sliced open Darkstripe’s cheek. Darkstripe charged at Cloudtail, knocking him to the ground. Cloudtail struggled beneath him. Dovewing sprang forward, grabbing Darkstripe and heaving him away from her grandfather.

“Brave girl!” Darkstripe growled, kicking at her and sending her flying. She landed on her back, winded. Darkstripe leaped at her.

Cloudtail leaped in front of her, blocking her from another attack. Darkstripe darted forward, stabbing at Cloudtail’s chest with a gleaming dagger. Blood sprayed the ground.

“No!” Dovewing leaped up and jumped on Darkstripe, grabbing onto his shoulders and holding on for dear life. As he tried to shake her off, she kicked one foot down, meeting the back of his knee and sending him toppling to the ground.

Darkstripe rolled, squashing her into the ground. She let go and he turned on her, slashing her face.

“Bad luck, girl,” Darkstripe sneered, glancing up the slope. With a gasp, Dovewing saw Cloudtail kicking as a brown haired woman held him down. “Sparrowfeather will finish off the couthy. Which means I get to kill you myself.”

Rage filled Dovewing. She shoved Darkstripe off and grabbed her leg. He screamed when she stabbed him with her sword, then spun, using the weapon as leverage to slam him into the ground. Before he could regain himself, she ripped her sword from his leg and leaped away.

A shout split the air and she turned just in time to block a punch from Sparrowfeather. Reeling, she fell back, hard. Hands wrapped around her throat as Sparrowfeather leaped on top of her. Dovewing struggled to breath, her hands flying to the ghost’s wrists. Terror flooded her as she struggled to break free.

“Leave them be, Sparrowfeather!” a voice sounded from above. “Those two are beaten. Leave them to die. We’re attacking the camp.”

Sparrowfeather’s grip lessened as she raced for the others.

“Grandpa?” Dovewing rasped, struggling onto her hands and knees.

Cloudtail lay a few lengths away, covered in blood.

“Grandpa!” Dovewing collapsed at his side.

His eyes were dull, but he was breathing.

“They’re attacking camp!”

Cloudtail hauled himself up “Let’s go!” he croaked. “We have to stop them!” He took a step forward, but his leg buckled beneath him.

“Are you okay?” Dovewing caught up to him in just a few strides.

“I have to be!” Cloudtail straightened. “My kids are in there!”

Outside camp, Squirrelflight and Sandstorm were side by side, battling the Dark Forest warriors. Sparrowfeather and Darkstripe joined the attack.

Brambleclaw, Leafpool, Cinderheart, and Dustpelt raced from the entrance, but more ragged figures were swarming from the trees, diving on the Clan warriors. The ferns shivered on the far slope as Firestar and Lionblaze crashed out. Footsteps skidded behind Dovewing as Crowfrost and Graystripe raced past. Wiping the blood off his face, Cloudtail joined them.

Dovewing followed. She spotted Darkstripe and slashed at his back. All the skillful moves she’d been taught as an apprentice left her mind, replaced with pure savagery. She stabbed at anyone she could find, blood blurring her vision.

“Watch it!” Squirrelflight yelped, narrowly avoiding her blade.

“Sorry.” Quickly, she turned and aimed for a darker figure.

“They’re in the camp!” Lionblaze screamed.

“Cinderheart! Dustpelt! Graystripe! Go with Lionblaze to drive them out!” Firestar kicked back one of the Dark Forest warriors. “We’ll hold them off.”

Dovewing heard Ferncloud scream and raced for the thorn barrier. Turning to glance over her shoulder, she could see familiar shapes on the slope. Warriors from RiverClan and WindClan had arrived.

The patrols thundered down the slope. Graymist, Mintfur, and Pebblefoot hurled themselves into battle. Dovewing watched them closely, then sighed in relief when she realized they were aiming for Dark Forest warriors.

“There’s more in camp!” Firestar cried, shoving Darkstripe away.

“We’ll deal with them.” Owlwhisker disappeared through the barrier with Whitetail and Boulderfur.

Screams sounded from the hollow. The RiverClan warriors turned back to back, driving the Dark Forest warriors apart. Dovewing dove through a gap between two warriors and began pushing them farther away. Within moments, the Dark Forest had been split into smaller groups.

Firestar was flanked by Bumblestripe and Poppyfrost, herding a knot of warriors toward the trees. Dovewing joined Bellsong and Squirrelflight to push back another cluster. She stepped back and dove, sure of her moves, knowing exactly where to aim. She sliced a man’s leg while Bellsong slashed at his face. Squirrelflight tripped another while Dovewing battered at the sound of his head. The Dark Forest warriors jerked around, looking for their scattered allies with dismay before turning and running for the trees.

Dovewing spun around. Lionblaze was chasing a warrior up the slope. Leafpool sent a dark haired man staggering backward. The Dark Forest warriors had thinned out to a few stragglers.

Firestar stood in front of them. “Run or die!” he shouted.

They froze, then turned and raced into the forest.

“Cowards!” Ferncloud called from the entrance to the hollow.

Pebblefoot and Sandstorm exploded out behind her, driving the last few Dark Forest warriors from camp. As they hurtled past, Dovewing listened as they wailed all the way back to the Dark Forest.

Excitement made her heart flutter. They had survived!

Then she froze.

She could still hear fighting- battle cries, blades clashing, and bodies hitting the ground. “There’s more coming!” she called.

“Cloudtail! Pebblefoot! Dustpelt!” Firestar called. “Go to Jayfeather.”

They limped through the thorn barrier.

“Is anyone else badly hurt?’ Firestar scanned the patrol. Bellsong had a bruise on her face. Graystripe’s eye was swollen and black. Poppyfrost was holding her wrist close to her chest.

Leafpool wove between them. “Everyone’s fine.”

Brambleclaw ducked out of camp. “All clear,” he reported. “The kids are safe.”

Dovewing heard footsteps beyond the rise.

“Who’s there?” Firestar called.

Ivytail broke from the trees, panting.

“Ivytail!” Brambleclaw hurried to greet her. “Any news?”

“Blackstar lost a blessing!” Ivytail gasped. “We’ve been overrun! We need help!”

Owlclaw darted forward, ducking under the camp aide’s arm to let her rest. Oakfur and Crowfrost’s eyes were wide with panic.

“Have you seen Cherry?” Poppyfrost asked.

Ivytail blinked. “We sent her back here a while again.”

Poppyfrost stiffened.

“Perhaps she went to WindClan to help Mole,” Leafpool assured. “Or she’s lying low until it’s safe to travel.”

Firestar looked at Dovewing. “How close is the next Dark Forest patrol?”

Dovewing listened, but their footsteps were muffled by mist. “They haven’t broken through yet.”

Firestar nodded. “Lionblaze, go to ShadowClan with Graystripe.”

Dovewing trembled. Lionblaze was ThunderClan’s biggest advantage. Could they afford to send him away?

“Crowfrost!” Firestar called to the ShadowClan warrior. “Take your patrol home. Your Clanmates need you more than we do.”

Crowfrost nodded.

Brambleclaw stepped up to Lionblaze. “Protect them,” he murmured. “I know you can.”

Lionblaze nodded, then pulled away and raced into the forest. Graystripe led the ShadowClan patrol after him. Ivytail trailed behind, still panting from her long run.

Ferncloud joined Firestar’s side. “The camp is a mess.”

“We’ve rebuilt before,” Firestar said. “We can do it again.”

Dovewing glanced over her shoulder before following them inside. Would they have a chance to?

Chapter Text

Lionblaze raced for the ShadowClan border, leaping fallen logs and shoving low branches out of his way. Graystripe raced after him, followed by Owlclaw, Oakfur, and Crowfrost.

Graystripe yelped beside him, stumbling.

Lionblaze skidded to a halt and bent to help him.

Graystripe was panting. “Got stuck on a bramble.”

For a moment, Lionblaze saw the old warrior as he was- a frail old man. Graystripe was growing thin, his black hair now silver with age. If they lived to see the sun again, he’d surely retire.

Graystripe gently pushed him away, then followed Owlclaw and Crowfrost.

As they crossed the border, Lionblaze detected the sounds of battle.

“Dawnpelt!” Crowfrost shouted, leaping over a bush.

Two ShadowClan warriors thrashed against three Dark Forest warriors. The living warriors were bruised and bloody.

“Hang in there, Toadfoot!” Oakfur called. He cleared the bush and launched himself at the nearest Dark Forest warrior, sending him flying while Crowfrost hauled another away from Dawnpelt.

Lionblaze slowed. Another knot of warriors clashed farther up the trail. He recognized Tallpoppy, a ShadowClan elder, in the fray.

“We have to get to camp,” Lionblaze urged Graystripe.

“Tallpoppy needs help!” Owlclaw called.

“Then help her.” Lionblaze veered off the trail and cut through the brambles. “Come on, Graystripe.”

He could hear screaming ahead. The brambles rose into woven walls made from thorns and logs. Holes had been torn through it. Outside, the ground was spattered with blood. Lionblaze ducked into the camp.

Injured warriors littered the clearing. Pine, one of the apprentices, were sobbing as she knelt over the body of her friend, Ferret. Tawnypelt weaved around her Clanmates, her eyes wide with horror. Four Dark Forest warriors paced the far edge of the camp, watching the Clan like wolves cornering their meal.

A ragged line of ShadowClan warriors faced them. Emberfoot, Gorsetail, and Furzepelt of WindClan stood with Ratscar and Tawnypelt. Hollowflight, Robinwing, and Petalfur swelled their ranks.

Graystripe stopped beside Lionblaze. “Why isn’t ShadowClan fighting back?”

“Do you want us to lose more warriors?” Littlecloud squeaked as he darted from one injured Clanmate to the next. “Blackstar lost a blessing.” The ShadowClan healer paused beside Scorchfur, who was lying on his side, blood pooling from a wound in his stomach. He pressed down on the wound, but blood bubbled between his fingers. “I’m running out of supplies!” Panic edged his voice.

Graystripe strode forward. “You need bandages.” he beckoned for Kinkfur. “Go to Jayfeather and ask for some.”

She darted away, her eyes lighting up with relief.

“Whitewater!” Graystripe called. “Get water for the wounded.”

An ominous laugh sounded from the head of the clearing. One of the Dark Forest warriors crashed through the ShadowClan line and hurled himself at Graystripe.

Graystripe raised his fists to block, sending the man stumbling back. “You’d better wait for backup before you take us on,” he growled.

The man glared at him, then backed away to join his Clanmates.

“They’re waiting for the next wave,” Lionblaze murmured to Littlecloud. “You need to patch up as many warriors as you can. You can’t afford any less man power.”

“I’ll fight to the death if I have to,” Scorchfur growled.

Lionblaze scanned the camp. “Where’s ThunderClan’s patrol?”

Littlecloud didn’t look up from his patient. “They must have chased the Dark Forest warriors into the forest.”

Whitewater raced toward him, water sloshing in the pots she held in her arms. “Here!”

Soon after, Kinkfur arrived with a bundle of bandages.

“Thanks.” Littlecloud began wrapping them around Scorchfur’s wound. “I’ll need more.”

Kinkfur raced away. Littlecloud brought one of the pots to Scorchfur’s lips.

Lionblaze scanned the camp. The panic that had frozen ShadowClan was starting to fade. People were darting in and out of huts, fetching supplies. Lionblaze leaned toward Graystripe. “Stay with Littlecloud.” He crossed to the warriors facing the Dark Forest. “Move closer slowly.”

The line moved, one step at a time. The Dark Forest warriors shifted uneasily. One of them eyed the camp wall hopefully.

“Keep going,” Lionblaze whispered. “Not too close. But enough to distract them.” He stepped away, then hurried to duck into the leader’s hut.

Rowanclaw raised his head. “You came.”

“Of course.” Lionblaze glanced at the ShadowClan leader laying on his bed. “How is he?”

“Recovering,” Rowanclaw reported. “Blackstar, ThunderClan came to help.”

The ShadowClan leader’s eyes were glazed over, but his breathing was steady.

Rowanclaw sighed. “What’s going on? Why do these rogues look like dead people of the past?”

“Because they are,” Lionblaze murmured. “The Dark-”

A scream from the clearing cut him off.

“Come on!” Lionblaze ordered Rowanclaw. The ShadowClan deputy was helping Blackstar to stand.

Lionblaze raced out of the hut. Dark Forest warriors streamed through the gaps at one side of the camp. “Oakfur! Get your warriors into groups. Force the enemy apart. Don’t let them form a line!” He raced to Littlecloud. “We need to get the injured to a safe shelter.”

“There’s a hidden gap beneath the camp wall.” Littlecloud pointed to a spot in the brambles that were slightly lifted. “Ivytail! Whitewater! Help me!” He grabbed Scorchfur and steered him toward the brambles.

Emberfoot and Robinwing stood back to back in the middle of the clearing, slashing at the Dark Forest warriors. Dawnpelt and Starlingwing stood side by side, keeping tight as they counter attacked.

“Hold your positions!” Lionblaze called.

Emberfoot disappeared beneath a wave of shrieking ghosts. Lionblaze leaped forward, swinging widely, feeling himself connect with flesh. It seemed like there wasn’t a single ShadowClan warrior left on their feet.

Would this be the end?

“We’re outnumbered!” Graystripe threw a warrior aside, reaching Emberfoot and hauling him from the pile.

Sudden footsteps sounded beyond the camp wall. Lionblaze stiffened with horror.

The brambles trembled as a patrol of warriors burst into camp. Lionblaze stared in shock. The newcomers were transparent, moving like glittering shadows.

“It’s StarClan!” Lionblaze gasped, recognizing Russetfur among the group.

The starlit ghosts streamed among the Dark Forest warriors. Eyes narrowed, they lunged forward with gleaming blades, landing blows as real as any living person.

Rowanclaw joined Lionblaze’s side. “What is going on?”

Russetfur skidded to a halt. “Did you think we’d leave you high and dry?”

“Russetfur!” A pale warrior, so old she was nothing more than a shadow, was calling across the clearing. “Help Raggedstar and Rowanberry!”

“Coming, Half Moon!”

As Russetfur darted away, a massive creature crashed through the remains of the camp wall. The bear’s green eyes glimmered like gemstones.

“Midnight!” Graystripe called to the vagabond. Dark Forest and ShadowClan warriors fled from her path. “It’s okay, everyone! She’s an ally!”

Midnight grabbed one of the Dark Forest warriors by the throat and lifted him high, then tossed him to the ground with a crunch. Lionblaze turned and grabbed the nearest Dark Forest warrior. He slashed as his face, then kicked him away.

“Nice move.” Half Moon fell in beside him.

A Dark Forest warrior lunged at her. She raised her hands and threw him back. Quickly, Lionblaze slid in front of her and grabbed the man by the shoulders, reeling back and slamming their heads together.

“Help!”

Lionblaze jerked around as a scream sounded from beyond the camp walls. He jumped over what remained of the logs.

“You’ll die a traitor!” A Dark Forest warrior had Ratscar pinned to a pine tree.

“No, Shredtail! Please!” Ratscar struggled as Shredtail gripped his throat.

“Let him go!” Lionblaze shouted.

Shredtail turned on him. “He betrayed us!”

Lionblaze stared at Ratscar. “What?”

“They never told me they were training me to destroy my own Clan!” Ratscar croaked.

“You knew what would happen if you disobeyed!” Shredtail raised a dagger.

“Get off him!” A pale shape streaked past, Snowbird crashed into Shredtail, sending him flying as Ratscar crumbled to the ground. “Don’t touch my brother! He’d never betray his Clan!”

Shredtail glared at Snowbird. “Really? Then why has he been training in the Dark Forest? And he’s not the only one.” His gaze turned on a red haired man dragging Dawnpelt across the clearing.

“Redwillow?” Snowbird gasped in disbelief.

“Indeed,” Shredtail sneered.

Redwillow spun around when he heard his name, letting go of Dawnpelt.

The ShadowClan warrior leaped up, her eyes wide. “What are you doing? We’re Clanmates!”

“Come here, Redwillow!” Shredtail called.

“Yes, Shredtail?” Redwillow joined them, his eyes glittering with excitement.

“How’s the battle going?” Shredtail asked.

“Great! I’m finally fighting properly. You were right about the Clans being weak and lazy. This is the easiest battle I’ve ever fought!” Redwillow chimed happily. “They’re so obsessed with honor and the warrior code. It’s obnoxious.”

Snowbird lunged at him. “The warrior code keeps us safe! I should kill you!”

“Enough, Snowbird.” A voice trembled form behind.

Blackstar was limping toward them.

“But he’s a traitor!” Snowbird growled.

“I’m loyal to my real Clanmates,” Redwillow said, standing with Shredtail. He glared at Blackstar. “Your time is over, old man. You’re nothing but an elder growing weaker every day.”

Blackstar held his head high. “I am still leader of this Clan, and you are a traitor.” Without missing a blink, Blackstar drew his mace off his back and swung it at Redwillow, hitting the young warrior in the head. Blood flew through the air. Redwillow collapsed to the ground.

Shredtail turned on Blackstar. “You killed my apprentice!”

Blackstar met his gaze. “I killed one traitor, and I’ll kill another.”

“No!” Lionblaze jumped between them. “Fight me! Or are you afraid?”

“I fear nothing!” Shredtail leaped at him.

Lionblaze felt him thud against his chest and was momentarily surprised by Shredtail’s strength. He braced himself and raised his sword. But Shredtail backed away and crouched, his eyes gleaming.

Lionblaze paused, then leaped forward, hurling himself at Shredtail.

Shredtail dodged easily. “You can’t beat me, boy.” He lunged at Lionblaze, who stepped out of the way just in time. He raised his fists, ready to slam into Shredtail, but the dead warriors spun and kicked at Lionblaze’s stomach, sending him stumbling. “Fight like a warrior!”

Lionblaze leaped forward, grabbing Shredtail around the throat. Using one hand to hold him still, he gripped his sword and swung in around, reaching over Shredtail and driving it through the man’s back.

Shredtail gasped, falling limp. Lionblaze ripped his sword out, watching blood splatter onto the trees, then Shredtail collapsed to the ground.

His body began to fade. It grew pale against the forest floor, then disappeared.

“Well done, Lionblaze,” Blackstar said, sounding mystified.

“Lionblaze!” Graystripe’s call made him jump. He turned to see the senior warrior pushing through the tall bracken. “Half Moon says we can go home,” Graystripe explained. “They don’t need our help anymore.”

Blackstar nodded. “Go. Help your Clanmates.”

Lionblaze nodded to the ShadowClan leader. “Good luck.”

Chapter Text

Ivypool knelt in the wasteplace. Outside, she could hear Firestar giving orders. Shouts echoed above the hollow.

The Dark Forest had reached ThunderClan’s land.

Ivypool was trembling with frustration. Dovewing had woken her too soon. She had been trying to reach Blossomfall and Birchfall before the battle started. Now it was too late.

She needed to find them.

Ivypool waited until the patrols left. Where would Splitstar and Tigerstar send the ThunderClan recruits? Surely not to their own Clan? They’d be more eager to fight the other Clans. Ivypool backed out of the wasteplace, getting out of camp.

“Ivypool?” Brambleclaw’s voice made her jump. “Shouldn’t you be with Firestar?”

She whipped around to see the ThunderClan deputy beneath a rowan tree. Brambleclaw knew she’d trained in the Dark Forest. What if he thought she was sneaking away to betray her Clan? “I-I have to find my dad.”

He stepped closer. “Do you know where he is?”

“No! But I have to stop him before…”

“Before he betrays his Clan?” Brambleclaw narrowed his eyes.

“He wouldn’t!” she gasped. “Neither would the other trainees. The Dark Forest leaders threatened to kill them if they don’t fight.”

Brambleclaw nodded. “Go find them.”

She blinked. “Really?”

“I trust you.”

“Thank you!” Sighing with relief, Ivypool spun and hurried toward WindClan’s land. She could hear screams from the moorland, but there was no sign of her Clanmates. She hurried on, slipping on the wet grass as she neared the stream.

“Hello, Ivypool.” A low voice took her by surprise. Brown eyes flashed in the darkness.

Ivypool drew her sword. “Who’s there?”

Tigerheart slid out from behind a tree.

Ivypool narrowed her eyes. “What are you doing here?”

“Meeting Hawkfrost,” Tigerheart said with a shrug.

Ivypool paused. “Are you in his patrol?”

“Are you?”

“I-I don’t know yet. I didn’t receive any orders.” Her mind whirled. Surely Tigerheart realized what was happening by now.

“Hawkfrost will tell us what to do when he gets here.”

Ivypool simply nodded, then turned in the direction of the stream.

“Where are you going?” Tigerheart asked.

“The battle started,” Ivypool growled. “I’m not going to miss it.”

“But you don’t know who to fight!”

Frustration surged through her. “Of course I do! I’ll fight any Dark Forest warrior I meet. And any living warrior who fights with them.”

“But you’re part of the Dark Forest,” Tigerheart growled. “Isn’t that what you wanted?”

“No!” Ivypool growled. “When I agreed to train with the Dark Forest, I didn’t agree to all this. I won’t fight with any of you. I’m loyal to my Clan.”

Tigerheart narrowed his eyes. “You might not have a choice. Splitstar will kill us if we betray him.”

“I don’t care,” Ivypool growled. “I’d rather die a ThunderClan warrior than live to be Dark Forest scum.”

The bracken behind them rustled. Ivypool whipped around, her heart lurching as Hawkfrost emerged. “There you are, Ivypool. Where have you been?”

“I was looking for my dad,” Ivypool explained.

Hawkfrost nodded. “You’d better find him. Now. Then go straight to WindClan’s camp.”

Ivypool nodded and raced away. She glanced back to see Tigerheart whispering in Hawkfrost’s ear. Terror made her stomach flip. If he told Hawkfrost she had betrayed the Dark Forest, they’d kill her! But she couldn’t worry about that now.

She just had to keep running.

“Dad!” she shouted. “Dad!”

“Ivypool!”

She skidded to a halt when she heard her father’s voice. Birchfall was hidden behind a pile of boulders. Blossomfall, Mousewhisker, and Foxleap were with him, their eyes glittering with fear. Suddenly, screams sounded close by and two WindClan warriors streaked past, Dark Forest warriors on their heels. Farther up the slope, warriors were clashing.

“What should we do?” Blossomfall whimpered. “We can’t attack our Clanmates!”

“We won’t!” Ivypool said. “We have to defend them against the Dark Forest.”

Birchfall stared at her. “You knew about this all along, didn’t you?”

Ivypool gulped. “Yes.”

“Why didn’t you tell us?” Mousewhisker growled.

“I was spying. I didn’t know who to trust and I couldn’t risk giving myself up. I hoped you’d work it our yourselves.”

“You’re right.” Birchfall stood up. “We should have realized sooner.”

Mousewhisker glanced over his shoulder at the fighting warriors. “What should we do?”

“Join the battle,” Ivypool said. “But fight for the Clans. We’ve been trained by the Dark Forest. We know their tricks.”

She let her voice dwindle when Applefur appeared, Breezepelt right behind her. Ivypool tried not to tremble when Thistleclaw and Snowtuft followed.

“There you are!” Breezepelt’s eyes were glowing. “We’re going to launch an attack on WindClan’s camp.”

“But Hawkfrost told us to meet with him,” Ivypool said.

“You will,” Thistleclaw growled. “He’s attacking on the far side.”

Ivypool nodded. “Let’s go.” She glanced at her Clanmates, willing them to play along, then charged after Thistleclaw. “Once we get there, turn on them,” she whispered to Birchfall.

Heather appeared underfoot, its sweet scent covering the stench of blood.

“Hurry!” Mousewhisker dashed ahead of her. “We have to get there first!”

Ivypool chased after Birchfall and Foxleap. From the top of the slope, she could see WindClan’s camp. The clearing was filled with screams and fighting. Emberfoot blocked a lunge from a ShadowClan warrior. Another dead warrior threw Crowfeather to the ground. Ivypool saw Whitewing, Berrynose, and Hazeltail among the lithe WindClan warriors. Mallownose of RiverClan and Shrewfoot of ShadowClan fought beside them. A Dark Forest warrior batted Mallownose away with a vicious blow. A man stabbed at Hazeltail’s legs while another gripped Whitewing around the throat. The Clan warriors were outnumbered.

It was a fight for their lives.

Breezepelt’s eyes gleamed as he stared into the camp.

“When do we attack?” Applefur sounded scared.

“Once the first patrol has weakened them,” Thistleclaw said.

“Why don’t we help now?” Blossomfall asked.

“We must wait.” Thistleclaw was looking at where Hawkfrost sat, silhouetted against the clouds. His patrol paced impatiently around him. Tigerheart was sitting with him.

A wail sounded below. Ivypool stifled a gasp as Sedgewhisker dove in front of a little girl, shielding her from a Dark Forest warrior.

She fought to keep herself still. Finally, Hawkfrost raised one hand.

“Attack!” Thistleclaw shouted, charging down the slope and crashing into camp. Snowtuft followed, Foxleap on his tail.

Ivypool blocked Applefur’s path. “Are you really going to side with them?”

Applefur’s eyes were wide. “I have to!”

“You have to defend our people!” Ivypool growled. “Would you rather have Splistar as your leader?”

Applefur blinked.

“You are a warrior,” Ivypool said. “And the warrior code says we should lay down our life for our Clanmates. They need us!”

Applefur nodded. “Yes, they do. My life is only a small price to pay. And maybe I deserve it.”

“Don’t feel guilty,” Ivypool said. “We were all tricked. But now, we must fight with courage.”

“I will!” Applefur raced for the camp. Ivypool followed. She had to find Breezepelt. She exploded into camp. People fought on every side. She scanned the camp. Breezepelt was chasing Thistleclaw through the fighting. Ivypool snaked after him.

“Stop!” As Breezepelt drew his bow to aim at a WindClan warrior, Ivypool dove for him. She smashed into his back and they both crashed to the ground. “You can’t fight for the Dark Forest!”

“What are you doing?” Breezepelt shoved her off. “This is what we trained for!”

“You can’t really believe this is right!” Sudden pain seared Ivypool’s face as a blow landed.

Thistleclaw loomed over her. “Traitor!”

“I’m loyal!” Ivypool growled. “I always have been. I was spying on you!”

Her heart skipped a beat when Hawkfrost appeared at Thistleclaw’s shoulder, Snowtuft on his other side. Their eyes were dark with hate.

“We won’t fight for you anymore!” Birchfall flung himself at a blonde Dark Forest warrior.

Applefur grabbled with a scarred man. “I fight for my people!”

Rage filled Hawkfrost’ blue eyes. “Then we’ll kill you and destroy your wretched Clans!”

Ivypool braced herself, grabbing Snowtuft’s fist before he could land a blow. But he came back with his full weight, sending her sprawling. Jumping up, she hurled herself at the skinny blonde man. She grabbed his shoulders and hauled him to the side, but he twisted and punched at her throat. She dodged just in time and crashed into another warrior.

Tigerheart! His eyes were narrowed. “I fight for the Clans!” He turned and kicked at Thistleclaw. “Dark Forest warriors don’t belong here! This is WindClan’s land!”

Ivypool shoved Snowtuft away. “Then why were you in the Dark Forest?”

Tigerheart ducked under Thistleclaw’s swinging fist. “Same as you. I wanted to figure out what was going on.”

Thistleclaw gasped. “But you’re Tigerstar’s grandson!”

“That doesn’t mean I have to be like him.” Tigerheart punched at Thistleclaw. “He once tried to destroy my Clan. I won’t let him do it again!”

“Enough of this!” Hawkfrost snapped, barging past Thistleclaw. “I’ll finish off this traitor myself!”

Ivypool stumbled as Snowtuft landed a blow to her already bruised cheek. Thistleclaw appeared beside him. Together, they drove Ivypool into the camp wall, punching and kicking. Ivypool raised her arms, trying to block their attacks, but her foot slipped on the peaty earth. Heather grabbed her feet and she fell, but rolled away as Snowtuft’s foot stomped down where her head had been. Looking up, she realized she’d been separated from the rest of the fighting. She could see Tigerheart in the clearing, surrounded by Dark Forest warriors. Birchfall was defending a little girl on the far side of the camp. Applefur and Blossomfall fought side by side, blood dripping down their faces.

Suddenly, the painful blows stopped. Ivypool blinked through her blurred vision. Snowtuft was staring over her shoulder, his good eye wide. Thistleclaw was backing away.

A low, menacing growl sounded from behind Ivypool.

She didn’t have to turn to know what was about to happen. A dark pelt whipped past her so fast it stirred her hair. Snowtuft screamed as he turned and ran, sharp teeth snapping at his heels. Thistleclaw, stunned, could do nothing but take a few steps back, only to jolt as piercing eyes turned on him.

“A wolf!” he rasped, shocked. “Where do they get a wolf?”

“It’s Beast!” Foxleap cheered.

Ivypool was left panting as Beast chased after Thistleclaw, the Dark Forest warrior darting out of camp. A few other warriors had noticed and were screaming in their attempts to flee.

“It’s okay!” Mousewhisker called when Emberfoot started to back away. “He’s on our side!”

Beast had caught up to Thistleclaw, dragging him back into camp by his arm. The Dark Forest warrior shrieked in pain as sharp teeth dug into his flesh.

Ivypool watched for a moment, hope flaring through her. Then, blue eyes slid into her vision.

“Did you really think I’d let you live?” Hawkfrost growled. “I’ll make sure your death is slow.”

He lunged for her, shoving her back into the wall. Gasping for air, she felt a blade stab into her hip. Panic and anger surged through her. She raised one arm and punched Hawkfrost in the side of the face, sending him reeling.

He rubbed his cheek. “You were always skilled.”

Ivypool side stepped him, and ducked when he leaped again, but he was quicker and kicked her to the ground. She struggled beneath him, screaming as his dagger stabbed in her shoulder. Suddenly, a black cloak covered her vision.

“Leave her alone!” Hollyleaf shouted.

Ivypool’s world spun as the ThunderClan warrior slammed into Hawkfrost, sending him crashing into the camp wall. Freed but bleeding, Ivypool scrambled up. Hollyleaf had lunged at Hawkfrost again, trapping him against the wall. He raised his dagger to her throat, blood glistening on the tip, but she slapped his hand away.

Ivypool’s heart pounded, remembering Hawkfrost’s battle style. She didn’t have time to call a warning as his other dagger soared up, nailing Hollyleaf in the side of the neck. She gasped and gripped his wrist, tearing him away. She drew an arrow from the sheath on her and stabbed into into his shoulder. He shrieked in pain, then dropped to the ground and rolled away. Blood dripped from a cut on his cheek and one eye was swollen. He glanced at Hollyleaf, then tore away, racing from the camp.

Ivypool stared at her. “You saved my life!”

Hollyleaf dropped to her knees.

“Hollyleaf!” Ivypool darted to her side. Blood pulsed form the wound in her neck.

Ivypool ducked under her arm, helping her stand. She began half dragging, half carrying her Clanmate out of the WindClan camp.

She had to get to Jayfeather.

“I’ll get you home,” Ivypool growled through gritted teeth. “I promise. I won’t let you die here.”

Tigerheart stumbled into her path, panting. “Let me help!” He ducked under Hollyleaf’s other arm, taking half her weight.

The sounds of the battle faded behind them as they hauled Hollyleaf back toward the ThunderClan border.

Chapter Text

Dovewing caught her breath. The Dark Forest warriors had fled, but she could hear a second patrol pounding toward camp. They’d break into the living world soon. She blocked out the noise and tried to focus on the camp.

“They went straight for the children.” Leafpool handed her a bundle of herbs. Her voice was shaking.

Shredded twigs hung from the nursery. Ferncloud paced outside, covered in blood.

Brightheart was wrapping bandages around Poppyfrost’s arm. “But we saw them off!”

“We did!” Mousefur stood beside Rusty outside the elder’s hut. She was bleeding from a cut on her cheek.

Dovewing hoped they could do it again. Between Lionblaze and Beast, the first wave had been nothing. But Lionblaze was aiding ShadowClan and Beast had gone with Hollyleaf to WindClan.

Inside the nursery, Cinderheart was calming the frightened children. Lily peered out from the nursery walls, her brown eyes wide. Behind her, Alder and Amber were wailing with fright.

“We’d better start patching up what we can,” Brackenfur said, heading for the extra brambles stored outside the healer’s hut. “Mintfur! Troutstream!” He called to the RiverClan warriors. “Can you help?”

They joined Brackenfur and began dragging the brambles toward the nursery.

“Is Daisy alright?” Dovewing asked Leafpool.

“She’s got a nasty cut on her face, but she’ll live.” Leafpool turned toward the elders. “She’s with Jayfeather.”

Dovewing swallowed her herbs. Suddenly, she could smell fresh blood from outside the hollow. Footsteps staggered toward camp. “Someone’s coming! They’re injured!” She raced across the clearing and barged out of camp.

Ivypool and Tigerheart were stumbling down the slope, Hollyleaf between them.

“Jayfeather! Leafpool!” Dovewing shouted. “Come quick! Are you hurt?” She circled the trio. They were all covered in blood.

Dovewing stepped out of the way as Firestar raced out of camp, Jayfeather on his heels.

“Give her to me.” The ThunderClan leader lifted Hollyleaf away. “We need to get her into camp.”

Tigerheart followed Firestar into camp. Hollyleaf was limp between them.

“What happened?” Dovewing demanded.

Ivypool gazed after them, her eyes round with shock. “Hollyleaf saved my life.”

Dovewing led her into camp.

Tigerheart and Firestar gently laid Hollyleaf on the ground. Brambleclaw and Squirrelflight stared from the edge of the clearing, frozen. Hollyleaf was covered in blood, all bubbling from a deep stab wound in her neck.

Poppyfrost crept around the edge of the clearing to join Ivypool. “Have you seen Cherry or Mole?”

Ivypool shook her head.

Leafpool crouched beside her daughter. “Hollyleaf?”

Hollyleaf groaned, her eyes fluttering open.

“It’s okay.” Leafpool ran a hand through her hair as Jayfeather unrolled a leaf bundle. He ran a hand over her neck, then began pressing bandages against the wound.

“So much blood…” he murmured.

“I’m fine,” Hollyleaf croaked. “I’m glad I came back to ThunderClan. I couldn’t bear to…to die without seeing you again.”

“Save her!” Ivypool cried. “You have to save her! She saved me from Hawkfrost.”

“Hawkfrost?” Brambleclaw’s voice was low with menace. “He did this?”

Ivypool nodded.

Suddenly, Dovewing jolted. “Firestar, they’re here!” she called. “They’re in the forest.”

Firestar stiffened.

“Hollyleaf.” Leafpool cupped her daughter’s face. “Hollyleaf?”

Hollyleaf’s head fell back, her green eyes dull.

“She’s not breathing!” Leafpool cried.

“She lost too much blood.” Jayfeather was trembling. “There was nothing more we could do.”

Footsteps sounded outside the hollow, determined and fast. Firestar straightened. “Get ready!”

Brambleclaw signaled to Squirrelflight and Sandstorm, sending them to guard the nursery. Ferncloud was ushering Brightheart back inside. The WindClan and RiverClan patrols spread out across the clearing. Mousefur and Rusty stood side by side outside their hut. Leafpool and Jayfeather picked up Hollyleaf’s body, taking her to the edge of the hollow.

As shredded barrier quivered as Birchfall skidded inside, Blossomfall behind him. Shock made Dovewing pause. Was he leading the attack?

Firestar met Birchfall’s gaze. “How could you betray us?” he growled.

Dovewing’s blood ran cold. “I thought you’d choose us.”

“He did!” Ivypool quickly shot forward. “He fought with me at the WindClan camp.”

Birchfall nodded. “We would never betray ThunderClan!”

Mousewhisker skidded into the camp. “We came to warn you!”

Blossomfall was panting. “We saw the Dark Forest patrol!”

“They’re almost here!” Foxleap added.

Suddenly, a huge, dark haired man crashed through the thorns. He was bleeding heavily from what looked like a bite wound on his arm, and one eye was swollen. “Traitors!” he growled at Birchfall. “We lost the WindClan camp! I’ll kill you!”

“Not if I kill you first, Thistleclaw!” Birchfall snapped. “You tricked us!”

Dark Forest warriors flooded the hollow. A scarred man sent Bumblestripe flying. Two skinny men leaped on Tigerheart, pinning him to the ground. Squirrelflight disappeared under a wave of diving warriors.

“Guard the nursery!” Firestar shouted.

Broad-shouldered warriors surged past Sandstorm. Brambleclaw launched across the clearing and began tearing them away. Tigerheart struggled free and rushed to help. Daisy shot out of the healer's hut and began swinging her new spear wildly.

“Hide!” Ferncloud shoved Brightheart and the children deeper into the nursery. She grabbed one of the spare bramble tendrils and threw it across the opening. “I won’t let you hurt those babies!”

“Darkstripe!” Mousefur growled from the elder’s hut. “I hoped I’d never see your ugly face again.” The old lady punched at a dark haired man.

Darkstripe slapped back, sending Mousefur crashing to the ground.

Dovewing leaped across the clearing, knocking Darkstripe away. He turned on her.

“Go for his throat!” Cinderheart landed beside her. “I’ll grab his legs.”

Dovewing slashed at Darkstripe. He stumbled when Cinderheart hooked a foot around his knee and pulled. He landed in the dirt with a gasp as the air rushed from his lungs.

“Nice.” Cinderheart dove on top of Darkstripe.

More Dark Forest warriors streamed toward them.

“Ready, Mousefur?” Rusty nodded to his friend and the two elders braced themselves.

Dovewing glimpsed a figure at the top of the hollow. Cherry was peering over the edge. Firestar signaled with his hand and she darted away to get help from any Clan patrol she could find.

A sudden weight slammed into Dovewing’s ribs. She staggered and turned.

“Just give up!” A blonde woman grappled for her.

“I’d rather die!” Dovewing hooked an arm around the woman’s neck, choking her. The woman shouted, punching at her ribs.

Pain seared her torso. When Dovewing let go, another Dark Forest warrior dove on top of her.

“Get off my sister!” Ivypool flashed by, grabbing the warrior and throwing him off. As he cried in rage, Dovewing writhed free and sprang to her feet.

“We’re outnumbered!” Dovewing rasped.

“Hold your ground!” Cinderheart barged between them.

“What do we do?” Brambles poked Dovewing’s spine. The Dark Forest warriors had pinned them to the healer’s hut.

“Stay close and fight for your lives!” Cinderheart lunged forward and decked a Dark Forest warrior in the face, sending blood spraying form his split lip. “You jerks killed my best friend! You’ll pay for it!”

Ivypool darted low and swept out the man’s legs. Dovewing jumped on his back, hanging on and forcing him to the ground.

“Watch out!” Cinderheart’s call came too late. A ragged man lunged from Dovewing.

Pain scorched her as she hit the ground. She turned and kicked him off. Suddenly, the thorn barrier burst open.

Crowfeather raced into the hollow, Breezepelt on his heels. As they dived into the battle, Dovewing stumbled. Someone had grabbed her ankle. Kicking out, Dovewing knocked them away and turned to check on Ivypool.

Ivypool was fighting two men at once, driving them back. Cinderheart had a woman pinned to the ground. Dovewing caught her breath, scanning the battle. Cloudtail writhed outside the nursery. Squirrelflight had jumped onto a warrior’s back, sending him stumbling across the clearing. Icecloud leaped down from the beech tree, tackling a huge man to the ground. Desperate screams echoed through the stone walls.

The Clan warriors were fighting for their lives.

Suddenly, Lionblaze appeared through the thorns. Graystrope followed. Dovewing gasped as more people streamed after them. She didn’t recognize any of them, and they looked odd- they were pale, almost transparent, with the trees and grass visible behind them. These weren’t living beings, that was for sure. Had a new wave of Dark Forest warriors chased Lionblaze and Graystripe all the way to camp?

Cinderheart froze. “More Dark Forest warriors!”

Mousefur’s eyes widened. Icecloud hesitated midblow and was sent flying by a Dark Forest warrior.

“It’s okay!” Lionblaze called. “It’s StarClan! They came to help!”

A pale woman shot past her, hardly more than a shadow in the moonlight, and leaped on a Dark Forest warrior. The man shouted in surprise as he fell back.

A massive, more solid shape crashed through the entrance to the hollow.

“Is that Midnight?” Firestar’s eyes lit up.

The large woman blundered through the clearing.

A sharp laugh made Dovewing turn. “A bear lady and a bunch of faded elders won’t save you.” Thistleclaw loomed over her.

Suddenly, a howl made everything pause. It was low, echoing through the trees. All attention turned to the top of the hollow over the Highledge. There, a black snout was pointed toward the moon, howling. On the wolf’s back sat a faded ghost with orange hair, gripping onto his steed's neck fur.

“Not again…” Thistleclaw was backing away.

“It’s Fallen Leaves!” the faded woman gasped. “He came!”

Beast leaped down from the top of the hollow, landing on the Highledge before pounding down from the clearing. The man on his back held on tight as he turned on the nearest Dark Forest warrior and pounced on him.

The clearing was suddenly alive with fighting once more, although it was noticeably emptier. Dovewing watched as dozens of Dark Forest warriors turned to flee, screaming as sharp teeth snapped at their spines.

“Fallen Leaves?” Jayfeather’s voice came from the healer’s hut. He sounded mystified. “Is it really you?”

Fallen Leaves coaxed Beast to a halt in front of Jayfeather. “It’s me. I came to help you and Hollyleaf.”

Jayfeather frowned. “You’re too late for Hollyleaf…Hawkfrost got to her.” He gestured toward the dark haired woman’s body at the edge of the clearing.
Fallen Leaves’ green eyes flashed with sorrow. “Grieving won’t do any good now. We must fight!” He tugged at Beast’s scruff and the wolf turned, growling, and leaped back into the fight.

Feeling hopeful, Dovewing plunged back into the battle. Clouds covered the sky, blocking out the moonlight. People pressed around her. She could make out Midnight being swarmed by Dark Forest warriors.

“Fight with me!” Lionblaze growled at her.

“We’re still outnumbered!” she wailed.

“Then we need to fight harder!”

“Look out!” Dovewing screamed as Breezepelt lunged at Lionblaze.

Lionblaze turned, caught off guard, and crashed to the ground beneath the WindClan warrior.

Breezepelt held an arrow to Lionblaze’s cheek. “You’re not as strong as I expected.”

“Breezepelt, stop!” Ivypool called. “Don’t do this! Please! Do you really want to destroy the Clans for the Dark Forest?”

Breezepelt gripped Lionblaze’s head and slammed his face against the ground.

“This has nothing to do with the Dark Forest,” Breezepelt snapped. “Lionblaze shouldn’t have been born. None of them should have! You’ll join your sister now, halfbreed.”

“We’re brothers!” Lionblaze gasped.

“Never!” Fury blazed through Breezepelt’s eyes.

A dark figure parged past Dovewing. Crowfeather grabbed Breezepelt by the shoulder and hauled him back. Lionblaze scrambled up.

“Enough, Breezepelt!” Crowfeather threw his son to the ground, pinning him there. “I won’t let you hurt your brother!”

Breezepelt writhed. “I always knew you hated me!”

“I never hated you!” Crowfeather growled. “You were just determined to believe I did. And your mother encouraged you.”

“Don’t blame her!” Breezepelt snapped.

“I don’t,” Crowfeather retorted. “I should have done something sooner. But now it’s too late. You chose the Dark Forest.” He backed up, then pulled Breezepelt to his feet. “Leave.”

Breezepelt stared at his father, eyes wide, then turned and ran out of camp.

“I’m so sorry!” Leafpool burst out of the battle. “I never wanted this to happen!”

“He’s a grown man.” Crowfeather stared after Breezepelt. “He can make his own decisions.”

Leafpool looked down at the ground. “We never should have come back here. We should have stayed together. Then none of this would have happened.”

Crowfeather sighed. “We weren’t meant to be, Leafpool. But I don’t regret the time we spent together.” He looked at Lionblaze. “Or what came out of it.” He shouldered his way back into the battle.

Someone parged into Dovewing and she stumbled toward Ivypool. “What’s happening?” Had more Dark Forest warriors arrived? No, it seemed the new faces were from StarClan! Thousands of starry figures filled the clearing.

“Dad!” Graystripe shouted through the crowd. “You’re here!” He joined a tall blonde man.

Whitestorm nudged past him. “Nice to see you, too, son. Now step aside. This is a battle, not a reunion.” He turned and shoved a Dark Forest warrior.

“Where’s Mousefur?” A familiar voice made Dovewing turn.

“Longtail!” she gasped.

“Where is she?” he demanded.

“Defending the elder’s hut.” Dovewing pointed to the hut where Mousefur was fighting beside Rusty.

“We have to help her!” Longtail raced away, barging past a Dark Forest warrior in his path.

Mousefur was battering away a ragged man.

Longtail grabbed him and threw him off. “Let me help!”

“Took you long enough!” Mousefur growled. “Always late as usual.”

“Not too late,” Longtail retorted.

As he spoke, the Dark Forest man lunged, knocking Longtail out of the way. He grabbed Mousefur around the throat. The elder’s eyes lit up with surprise as she was taken to the ground.

“No!” Longtail dove on the man, swinging his axe into his hip. The man screamed and fell to the side.

“Come on! Get up!” Longtail held up Mousefur’s head, but she was slumped. Dovewing stared in horror. Bruises were appearing around Mousefur’s twisted neck.

“No!” Rage flared in Longtail’s clear gaze. He turned and threw himself into the battle.

Rusty was covered in blood. He paused when he saw Mousefur, his eyes glistening. “She died a warrior’s death.” He turned to Dovewing. “Go and fight. I’ll watch over her.”

Dovewing turned away, feeling dizzy.

“Hey!”

She had stumbled into Bumblestripe.

“Are you okay?” He lifted her chin with his hand, staring into her eyes.

“Mousefur’s dead.” She moved her head away.

Bumblestripe frowned. “Fight by my side. We’ve trained together before.”

Blindly, Dovewing followed him into the tangle of writhing bodies.

A Dark Forest warrior blocked their way. “I thought we already picked off the weaker ones,” he growled. He darted at Dovewing, but Bumblestripe caught him by the back of his shirt and dragged him away. Instinctively, Dovewing slashed at the man’s stomach. He howled in pain as blood sprayed from the wound. Bumblestripe dove in front of him and they matched each other blow for blow.

As Bumblestripe knocked him sideways, she kicked out her leg to trip him. The man crashed to the ground.

“Nice,” Bumblestripe puffed.

The man scrambled to his feet and fled. He barged past two small figures who had just entered camp.

Dovewing sighed in relief when she recognized Mole and Cherry. They were safe!

Cherry was grinning, excited. “The other Clans are winning!” she announced.

“RiverClan has driven them all the way to the back border!” Mole called, out of breath.

Dovewing scanned the clearing for Poppyfrost. Had she noticed her children return? She was fighting beside a blonde woman. Dovewing recognized Honeyfern. Together, the sisters were driving a Dark Forest warrior into the branches of the fallen beech.
Poppyfrost paused when the man tripped over a branch, crashing into the debris. “Mole! Cherry!” She raced to greet her kids. Honeyfern gave the Dark Forest woman one last kick between the legs, then followed her sister.

“Runningwind!” Firestar stopped beside a lithe man. “Are you still fast on your feet?”

“Of course!”

Firestar pointed toward the camp entrance. Dark Forest warriors were fleeing from the hollow. “Take Dustpelt and make sure they go all the way back to their own world!”

“I’ll go with them” A bearded blonde man slammed two Dark Forest heads together then stepped over the fallen bodies. “It’s been a long time since I’ve enjoyed a good chase.”

Firestar’s eyes glowed. “Thanks, Lionheart!”

“Come on,” Bumblestripe said to Dovewing. “Let’s make sure those Dark Forest cowards never come back!”

Dovewing chased him out of camp. She heard footsteps at her heels and glanced over her shoulder to see Sandstorm.

“Firestar sent me,” Sandstorm panted. “As backup.”

Bumblestripe pulled ahead, racing to catch up with the StarClan warriors.

Sandstorm suddenly skidded to a halt. “Look!”

“What?” Dovewing swerved back to her.

Sandstorm was pointing through the trees. “The moon is coming out! That must be a good sign.”

“Not for the Clans.”

A large woman appeared from the shadows, her blonde hair laying in frizzled ringlets around her face.

Sandstorm faced her, sword drawn. “Who are you?”

“Shouldn’t you know me?” the woman growled. “Have I already left the mouths of elders and nursery tales?”

“What’s your name?” Sandstorm asked.

“I am Mapleshade!” She leaped forward, tackling Sandstorm to the ground. “I’m going to make you pay for every gift StarClan gave you! And every gift they stole from me!”

Dovewing raced to help but an arm wrapped around her neck. She turned to punch at the man who’d grabbed her.

“You have everything I wanted, Sandstorm!” Mapleshade cried. “A loving husband, children I could watch grow up and have children of their own, the respect of my Clanmates! I should have had all that!” Her eyes shone with fury. Her hands were wrapped around Sandstorm’s throat, squeezing until Sandstorm’s eyes bulged.

“Let her go!” A starry figure darted from the trees and shoved Mapleshade away. As Sandstorm sat up, coughing, the new arrival flung Mapleshade to the ground.

Mapleshade scrambled up and turned on the StarClan warrior. “Spottedleaf,” she cooed. “Always around to help Firestar’s playthings.”

Spottedleaf narrowed her eyes. “Sandstorm is my niece, you obsessive hag. This has nothing to do with Firestar! Not all of us are boy crazy like you.”

Mapleshade lunged at her. Spottedleaf dodged, but was too slow. Mapleshade used both hands and grabbed her chin and hair, then jerked. A horrible snap echoed through the trees.

“No!” Firestar’s scream ripped through the air. Exploding from the trees, he kicked Mapleshade in the ribs, sending her flying. Sandstorm hurled herself at the dead woman. Firestar was ready to catch her. Shrieking in pain, Mapleshade struggled free and raced up the slope. Sandstorm raced after her.

Forest fell to his knees in front of Spottedleaf’s limp body. Her neck was twisted and bruises, and her brown eyes were open but glazed. “Spottedleaf, no,” Firestar sobbed.

Spottedleaf’s body began to blur, leaving a faint outline on the grass. Firestar scrambled forward, grabbing for the mist, but it all vanished.

“Oh, Spottedleaf, why you?” Firestar wheezed. “I have to lose you again?”

“I’m sorry, Firestar.” a long haired woman shimmered into view.

“Yellowfang?” Firestar looked up, his green eyes brimming with tears. “Is she really gone?”

“I’m afraid so,” Yellowfang said. “She died saving Sandstorm.”

Another sob wretched itself from Firestar’s lungs.

The ferns rustled behind them and Sandstorm appeared. She sat down beside Firestar, then nodded to Dovewing, dismissing her. Dovewing turned in the direction of camp. Glancing over her shoulder, she saw Sandstorm wrap an arm around Firestar, comforting him.

When she entered camp, she found half the Dark Forest warriors gone, pursued by StarClan. But some of them still fought on. Sorreltail’s patrol had return from ShadowClan’s camp to help. Spiderleg was grappling with Thistleclaw. Sorreltail had Darkstripe pinned to the ground. Thornclaw launched himself on top of a muscular dark haired man while Beast was chasing a group of scarred warriors around the edge of camp.

A scream sounded from the nursery. Daisy had slammed a Dark Forest warrior to the ground. Brightheart jumped on him to finish him off. A massive, deformed looking man had pushed into the nursery. A moment later, he reappeared, dragging Ferncloud out by her hair while she kicked and screamed.

He drew a mace off his back and, holding her down, blundered her head. Ferncloud fell limp, blood splattering on the ground.

“Ferncloud!” Firestar raced into camp just as the Dark Forest warrior ripped his mace from Ferncloud’s head.

He turned on Firestar. “Too late, couthy.”

“Splitstar!” Firestar drew his dagger.

Splitstar glared at him, eyes flaming with hatred. Firestar sprang forward, but the Dark Forest warrior was stronger, throwing him to the ground.

“Firestar!” Sandstorm’s terrified cry echoed through the hollow.

Splistar grinned. “I’m going to pound you to a pulp.”

A burst of starlight shone behind Firestar. Yellowfang had appeared again. “Enough!” She tore the mace from Splistar’s hands and swung it back at him. Dovewing heard his bones shatter as it met with his neck. Yellowfang let her son’s body drop to the ground, then watched as it faded into nothing but mist.

“Splitstar’s dead!” Thistleclaw stepped away from Spiderleg, eyes wide with dismay.

“Splistar?” Darkstripe spun around.

“Retreat!” Thistleclaw stumbled for the entrance, his voice edged with fear. The others swooped past him, fleeing.

“Not yet!” A faded StarClan warrior darted out of the crowd, grabbing Thistleclaw’s cloak and forcing him back. “Where is he? Where’s One Eye?”

Thistleclaw’s eyes were wide. “He didn’t come with us! Splistar and Tigerstar led the patrol!”

“Take us to him.” The StarClan warrior- a plump man with black hair- pressed his spear to Thistleclaw’s throat. “I know he’s behind all this. Take us too him, now!”

“Enough, Gray Wing.” Half Moon took a step toward him. “One Eye is smart enough not to show himself. You will have another chance to defeat him, I promise.”

Gray Wing released Thistleclaw and watched as he stumbled out of camp, following his warriors.

Dovewing was panting. Her limbs felt as heavy as stones. Her entire body stung from bruises and cuts. All around her, shafts of moonlight sliced through the clouds.

Lily and Seed peered out from the nursery.

“Come here, girls. It’s safe now.” Sorreltail beckoned them forward. She was sitting on the ground, covered in blood. Her daughters rushed to greet her.

Pebblefoot limped across the clearing. Whitestorm and Longtail stood panting with exhaustion, their heads leaned back. A bright beam of moonlight landed on Ferncloud’s body, lying motionless beside the nursery.

Her wound was turned away from the eyes of the curious children.

“Why’s Ferncloud sleep?” Snow asked.

“She’s tired after all the fighting,” Seed said. “Birchfall will wake her up.”

Birchfall had stumbled to his mother, his eyes glistening. Icecloud’s attention had been drawn by the chattering children. She gasped, then burst into tears.

“Mom?” Spiderleg’s eyes were wide. “Mom!” He fell to his knees in front of Ferncloud. Birchfall wrapped an arm around him.

Spiderleg shoved him off. “Go get Jayfeather!”

“She’s dead, Spiderleg,” Birchfall murmured. “She couldn’t have survived a head wound like that.”

Spiderleg gritted his teeth. “Why was she fighting? Why was no one there to protect her?” He turned on Birchfall. “This is your fault! I know you tried to side with the Dark Forest. You brought this on us!”

Birchfall scooted back, shocked. But before the argument would progress, the ruined thorn barrier rattled.

A battered warriors staggered into camp, bleeding.

Hawkfrost.

“The battle’s over,” Firestar growled.

“Not yet.” Brambleclaw followed Hawkfrost in. “I found him in the forest trying to run back to the others.” He put a hand on Hawkfrost’s shoulder, shoving him to his knees.

Hawkfrost glared over his shoulder. “Let me go.”

Ivypool darted forward, her eyes dark. “You killed Hollyleaf!” She drew her sword.

Brambleclaw put up a hand. “No, Ivypool. There’s someone else who deserves the taste of revenge.”

Dovewing’s blood ran cold as Beast padded forward. Fallen Leaves hopped off his back, one hand on the wolf’s scruff. Beast drew back his lips, snarling.

Hawkfrost’s eyes widened.

Brambleclaw’s grip on his shoulder kept him in place. “This is my daughter’s pet wolf,” he explained. “She raised him since he was a pup. You killed his owner, Hawkfrost. And he’s hungry after a long battle.”

“Wait, Brambleclaw, brother,” Hawkfrost’s voice was pleading. He grappled for Brambleclaw’s arm, trying to wretch himself free, but the ThunderClan deputy held strong. Dovewing shuddered when she saw the look of cold hatred in his eyes.

The other warriors gathered close, some with wide eyes as the horror of what they were about to witness dawned on them, others with sneering smiles as they anticipated it.

“Avenge her, Beast!”

“Let’s give our canine ally a feast!”

"For Hollyleaf!"

Sorreltail and Brightheart ushered the children back into the nursery, shielding their view. Lionblaze was grinning, looking from Beast to Hawkfrost then back. Firestar and Graystripe had turned the other way as though claiming deniability.

“I surrender!” Hawkfrost cried. “Please, let me go back to the Dark Forest! I-Ivypool, we’re friends, remember? I trained you!”

Ivypool glared at him so harshly it was a miracle he didn’t burst into flames. “We were never friends.”

“Brambleclaw, my brother!”

“You killed my daughter.” Brambleclaw’s voice was cold.

“Uh…Squirrelflight?” Hawkfrost turned desperately toward the red head.

Squirrelflight barked a laugh. “Not a chance, jerk.”

Beast’s snarls echoed off the walls of the camp. Some of the warriors had drawn away, turning their backs as not to watch, while others were waiting intently. Fallen Leaves and Brambleclaw exchanged a glance.

Beast raced across the clearing, tongue lolling and jaws parted. Hawkfrost shrieked as Brambleclaw shoved him forward before diving out of the way. The wolf’s cruel fangs bit into his shoulder, ripping flesh all the way down to the bone. From this angle, Dovewing could only make out Hawkfrost’s flailing limps, desperately kicking at the great wolf.

Hawkfrost’s screams filled the hollow, barely drowning out the squelching sound of ripped fresh. Slowly, his shrieks began to bubble and Dovewing knew he was choking on his blood.

Finally, after what felt like hours, Hawkfrost laid still. Dovewing was glad she had been standing on the other side of the clearing. She could only imagine how horribly mangled Hawkfrost’s body was as Beast continued to tear his flesh, chewing and gnawing.

The sounds began to dwindle as Hawkfrost’s body faded. Brambleclaw had stared with narrowed eyes the entire time.

Dovewing jumped when someone clapped near the healer’s hut. She turned to see a huge man emerging from the shadows, slowly clapping, a maliciously sweet smile on his lips.

“Well done, Brambleclaw,” Tigerstar cooed. “I didn’t imagine you had such savagery in you.”

Brambleclaw stared at his father in horror.

Tigerstar turned slowly to face Firestar, who had drawn his dagger. “Don’t be so eager. We will meet in battle, but not until you watch every last one of your precious Clanmates perish.”

“The battle is over!” Firestar growled.

“It’ll never be over!” Tigerstar snapped. “Not until the last of us have faded into nothing. Not until StarClan stops sending us to that prison. I’ll fight this battle until the day I fade.”

“Let that be today.” Firestar lunged forward. Tigerstar was fast, grabbing Firestar’s shoulder. But before he could stab, Firestar leaped back.

“I’ll kill you here and now, Firestar,” Tigerstar sneered. “Then I’ll kill your spirit. And every single person standing in this hollow.”

“This can’t be worth it.” Firestar narrowed his eyes. “You’ve lost so much, Tigerstar. Your wife, your children, and both Clans you pledged yourself to. Can you really stand here and tell me they were worth sacrificing for your pointless vendetta?”

“Absolutely.” Tigerstar lunged forward, grabbing for Firestar again. He stabbed his dagger into Firestar’s shoulder, then drew away and slammed him to the ground.

Graystripe stepped forward, but Whitestorm threw out a hand to stop him. “No, Graystripe. This is Firestar’s battle.”

Firestar was panting. “I won’t let you win. I’ll keep my people safe.” He leaped forward, but Tigerstar dodged. Firestar grabbed his fist in his other hand and slammed both into Tigerstar’s side. The dead warrior staggered and fell. Firestar rained slashing blows over Tigerstar’s head, who just barely managed to block them.

Rolling out of the way, he sprang back up, blinking blood from his eyes. He lunged for Firestar. The ThunderClan leader lurched away, but Tigerstar grabbed him by the front of his shirt, stabbing his dagger into his stomach. Firestar grunted.

“No!” Sandstorm started forward, but Graystripe and Sorreltail grabbed her, holding her back.

Firestar looked into Tigerstar’s eyes with pure malice and returned the favor, stabbing at Tigerstar’s shoulder. Tigerstar hardly flinched. The two ripped away from each other, blood spraying from their wounds.

“You’re nothing but a rogue, Tigerstar,” Firestar growled. “And you’re trespassing on my land.” He flew at Tigerstar, dagger up, and sank the blade into Tigerstar’s throat. He gripped the back of Tigerstar’s head, forcing him further onto the blade, until the larger man finally collapsed to the ground.

Firestar ripped his dagger away and watched Tigerstar fall to the ground. “I wish Timothy could have been here to finish the job himself,” he growled. “He would have enjoyed it.”

On the ground, Tigerstar was beginning to fade.

“He’s dead!” Ivypool called.

The crowd erupted into excited cheers of triumph. Dovewing looked around at her Clan, unable to stop from smiling. They had won! They had survived!

Firestar heaved in a breath, putting a hand over the stab wound on his stomach. His eyes glazed just a moment before he collapsed to his knees.

“Firestar!” Sandstorm screamed. She slid on her knees, catching him before his face hit the earth. “Wake up, Firestar, please!”

Brambleclaw approached cautiously. “Is he really…?”

“He saved the Clan,” Leafpool whispered. “Just as StarClan always said.”

Graystripe joined Sandstorm, who had pressed her face into the crook of Firestar’s neck. “Firestar…” His voice was hoarse with grief.

“He’s really dead?” Rusty’s eyes were ride.

“Yes.” Bumblestripe put a hand on the elder’s shoulder.

“Was it his final blessing?” Tigerheart asked.

“Yes,” Dovewing said. “You should go. All of you.” She looked at Boulderfur then Mintfur. “The battle is over. Leave us in peace.” She took a deep, shaky breath, sliding in beside Bumblestripe. Her vision blurred and she blinked tears away. Bumblestripe shifted to wrap an arm around her.

A shaft of moonlight sliced through the clouds, striking Firestar’s body. Sandstorm was clutching him tightly as his head rolled, sobbing against his shoulder.

Dovewing heard shifting somewhere in camp. She looked up to see a StarClan warrior near the thorn barrier, her blue eyes glowing.

“Bluestar?” Brambleclaw called. Bluestar stepped out from the shadows. She was followed by an auburn haired man, two black haired women, and a younger boy. Yellowfang joined them.

As the Clan parted to let them through, Runningwind and Lionblaze slipped out as well. Dovewing stared around at the walls of the hollow. They were lined with stars.

Jayfeather stepped forward as the group circled where Sandstorm held onto Firestar. “These are the people who gave Firestar his nine blessing,” he explained. “Redtail gave him the blessing of justice.” He gestured to the short red haired man. “Silverstream gave him the blessing of loyalty.”

Graystripe stared at the beautiful dark haired woman. “Silverstream?”

She returned his gaze, her blue eyes filled with love.

“Brindleface gave him the blessing of love.” Jayfeather gestured to the stoat woman. “And Swift gave him the blessing of mentoring.”

“Swift?” Brambleclaw’s voice was barely above a whisper. “Is it really you?”

Swift waved to his younger brother with a grin.

“Yellowfang gave compassion. Runningwind gave strength. Lionheart gave courage. He used all of these to serve his Clan for fifty long but fulfilling years.”

Jayfeather paused and Bluestar stepped forward. “Spottedleaf is no longer with us.” Her voice was thick with grief. “But she gave Firestar the blessing of forethought. I gave him the blessing of faith.” Her blue eyes were glazed with sorrow. “I knew that Firestar would save the Clans from the moment I met him. Although I never knew he’d save them from something as extreme as this. He’s served his Clan well and he deserves his rest. ThunderClan has a new leader.” She turned to Brambleclaw. “I’ll be the first to admit I didn’t appreciate you enough when I was alive to know you. But I’ve seen what’s in your heart and I know you’ll make a fine leader.”

The StarClan warriors drew closer, surrounding Firestar’s body. They gazed down.

Sandstorm had pulled away enough to lay her husband on the ground. Just as she stepped back, a shadow fell over him.

Dovewing gasped. Firestar was standing, his figure as pale as the moonlight. But his physical body still laid on the ground.

“It’s his spirit,” Jayfeather murmured.

Firestar’s gaze swept over the Clan. He nodded to Brambleclaw, then leaned down to press a kiss to Sandstorm’s forehead. She stared up at him, her eyes glistening with tears, as he turned and followed the StarClan warriors out of the hollow. Dovewing startled when another of the bodies began to glow.

Hollyleaf’s spirit had joined them.

“Look!” Sorreltail gasped. Mousefur’s spirit leaped from her body and raced across the clearing, young and energized once more.

“She’ll love being able to hunt again,” Rusty chuckled.

“Ferncloud’s awake!” Seed squeaked.

Ferncloud’s spirit followed Mousefur. She paused when she reached the thorn barrier, turning to face Spiderleg and Birchfall. She nodded to them, her eyes filled with love, then disappeared with the others.

Dovewing’s chest ached. They had lost so many people.

Sandstorm stood up, wiping her eyes. She turned to Brambleclaw. “You’re our leader now.”

“Bramblestar!” Lionblaze called to the sky.

“Bramblestar! Bramblestar!” Cherry and Mole joined in.

“Not yet,” Brambleclaw chided gently. “Not until I receive my blessings.” He turned his head to the sky. The stars seemed brighter than usual.

Jayfeather joined his side. “You should choose a deputy.”

Dovewing glanced around, wondering who Brambleclaw would pick. Lionblaze, surely? He was invincible and a skilled deputy. And he was Brambleclaw’s adopted son.

But Brambleclaw was looking toward the nursery. His gaze fell on Squirrelflight, who returned it. Murmurs filled the crowd. It was unusual for a deputy to be nursing while serving.

Then, Brambleclaw turned away. “Brackenfur will be my deputy.” He looked to the older warrior. “You’ve always been a great warrior. And I need someone level headed to help me lead this Clan.”

Brackenfur looked shocked. “I-I am honored, Brambleclaw. I will serve you well.”

“Brackenfur! Brackenfur!” the Clan cheered.

Dovewing was also taken aback by the decision. Brackenfur was old enough to retire. He wouldn’t be able to serve very long. Then, she caught the glance Brambleclaw sent to Squirrelflight and understood. Brackenfur would serve until he was retired- as long as it would take for Alder to become an apprentice. He was a stand in until Squirrelflight could take his place.

She looked at Lionblaze. His eyes were half closed and his shoulders dropped with exhaustion. For a brief moment, they really had held the power of the stars in their hands. But now it was over. Grief made Dovewing’s throat feel tight. They may have saved the Clans, but Hollyleaf was dead. She had been part of the prophecy, too. Why couldn’t she have lived?

Jayfeather joined his side. “Don’t be upset. Our Clanmates gave their lives to save us. We should honor them, not wallow.”

A breeze lifted Dovewing’s hair. From the corner of her eye, she saw two figures above. She looked up to see Midnight on the lip of the cliff. Beside her was a grotesque figure with bulging eyes. They met her gaze.

“Well done,” the thin man whispered.

Dovewing closed her eyes, taking in a deep breath. The prophecy had been fulfilled. Three had become four to battle the darkness.

And won.