Surprises

Ivoryflame's breath was shallow as she padded through the golden grass, a mouse firmly in her jaws. Hunting was always a challenge for her, but for the last moon she was just getting so tired... it was even a chore to just get up in the morning. Not to mention she was getting bigger by the day.

When she finally returned to their little cave, she found Striker sitting up, his brow furrowed "Ivoryflame..."

Ivoryflame stopped in her tracks, she could tell something was up "Um Striker, whats the matter...."

Striker gulped "Um, I've been noticing this for a few moons... and you're quite far along.. and..."

Ivoryflame narrowed her eyes, she had a sinking suspicion what all of this was about "What are you talking about Striker... you're making no sense..."

"Ivoryflame, you're expecting kits."

Ivoryflame's heart dropped "But... I would know... wouldn't I show...?" she looked down at her slightly large belly "I mean... more than this of course..."

Striker shook his head "Not always. Some she-cats don't show until they're almost ready to kit."

As the shock faded from Ivoryflame, a sudden happiness tugged at her, she was going to have kits. To be a mother. And with the tom she loved more than anything in the world. She ran up to Striker, her silvery eyes glinting "I love you. I love these kits. And I'm glad I'm here with you.


[{**}]

It had been a few moons since Ivoryflame had learned she was expecting. Her belly was bulging with kits and Striker had estimated there were going to be at least three in the litter. , they would be born any day now. Being this far along, a normal queen, especially one with a lame leg, would have been sitting in the nursery, maybe sharing tongues with her mate, and enjoying the fattest, most fresh kill there was.

But, Ivoryflame was anything but normal. "Striker, just a bit further." she purred "We have to go down to see Ebonywave, I have to tell her!" The forest of JayClan was within reach. "I've missed it so much."
Striker looked down "You didn't-"



Ivoryflame turned and looked at Striker "No Striker, I loved every minute with you... more than you'll ever know. But she's my sister... and I've been having a really weird feeling, like she's in danger so, I've wanted to-" she flinched and Striker looked at her. Ivoryflame smiled "Contractions. Started when we left our home."

They were now right inside JayClan territory when Ivoryflame let out an ear peircing howl. A white she-cat leapt from the trees, pinning down the queen and biting visiously into her neck, clawing at her belly. Ivoryflame screeched again "Striker... the kits!"

Striker didn't hear, he attacked Lightenedcall, throwing her against the trees, where she fell, and was temporarily subdued. He ran back over to Ivoryflame to see that she was bleeding heavily and nearly ready to kit, he didn't know what complications the injuries to her stomach would cause.

Ivoryflame, barely conscious, let out a quiet murmur "Striker... save them..."

"Ivoryflame!" a yowl sounded from his right Striker turned around to see no other than Ebonywave.

Too busy to answer, he ran to Ivoryflame, preparing to help her kit "Ivoryflame, stay with me. You need to push the first kit out." he grabbed a stick "Bite into this if you need."

After what seemed like hours, but was only minutes, the first kit came.

::---::

Ebonywave gasped and pain struck her. She looked at Finnick who pressed close to her.

"Finnick. T-the kits!"

Finnick nodded and snarled as a sandy shape hit Ebonywave. The cat hissed in her face as he pinned her down.

"I found you."

Finnick snarled and barreled into Shrewfang.

"Get your face away from her."

The two toms snarled at each other and Finnick bristled. Ebonywave yowled as a contraction went through her. Finnick flicked his gaze back, losing concentration and giving Shrewfang a chance to attack. He leaped at Ebonywave and sunk his claws into her stomach. She ripped away gasping for air. She collapsed and closed her eyes tightly. Finnick pushed Shrewfang away.

"It's going to be okay. You're going to do fine. Just... don't leave me."

Her eyes flickered open and sought out Finnick's face.

"I can't do this. L-leafdew was right. I-i should've stayed."

She whimpered and Finnick pressed his face against hers.

"I'm here. You're not alone. I'm here with you."

He slightly heard Ivoryflame and Striker in the background, but his gaze was focused on Ebonywave. He then spun around and slashed at Shrewfang.

"Stay back if you wish for your life."

He turned back to Ebonywave and her mouth opened in a silent yowl. He licked her gently.

"I'm sorry. I don't know what to do to help. I'm no medicine cat. The best I can do is be here."

She nodded slightly, and a spasm went through her and the first kit came. Finnick eyed Shrewfang warily as he licked the small black she-cat. He licked it roughly, trying to get it breathing. The kit took a small breath and mewled quietly. He was weak, but he was alive. Ebonywave strained to see the small life and Finnick placed it next to her. She sighed slightly and layed her head back down. Finnick heard a small cough and turned around to see Lightenedcall struggling to stand. Finnick snarled and narrowed his eyes. But Lightenedcall only surveyed the scene and backed into the bushes, her eyes gleaming as memories of a past event came to mind. He relaxed slightly and licked the next kit. A small silver tom. She was breathing better than her brother and Finnick placed her next to Ebonywave. He pressed his paws against Ebonywave's side. He knew some basics, but his group had never taught medicine. The queens gave birth on their own with no help, and if a cat got hurt, it was that cats trouble. He licked Ebonywave's head which was very warm.

"One more. Come on."

Her breathing was shallow and she was getting weaker. She whispered.

"Everything hurts Finnick, and it's so cold..."

She wailed and the next kit came. It was larger than the other two, and had black and white spots. He placed this tom also next to Ebonywave and purred in relief.

"Two toms and a she-cat."

He licked her gently.

"You did great."

Then he felt claws grip his shoulders.

"I gave you your time. Now, it's mine!"

Finnick yowled as Shrewfang leaped off of his back, dragging Finnick with him. Lightenedcall then, also burst out of the bushes.

::---::

Striker heard the commotion going on behind him and knew he should help Finnick, her first kit, a rather small brown tabby she-cat, was mewling faintly "Just a little longer. Hold on!"

Soon a tom was born, he was much larger than his sister with a coat which was so light gray, it could have been white, he seemed healthy and was mewling loudly.

Finally, a tortoiseshell she-cat was born, though, she seemed weaker than the rest, and gave a loud hacking cough instead of a mewl.

"Weaklings are not tolerated!" Lightenedcall's hiss sounded from behind Striker, and he attacked, ripping at every peice of exposed flesh. He could beat her, and would have too, if he hadn't have fallen for her dirty trick. Right as he would have killed that sorry excuse for a cat when a great smile spread across her face "Shrewfang! Kill the tortoiseshell first!"

Striker stopped, intending to see Shrewfang looming over his smallest kit, but instead he was slammed against a tree, and the world began to fade. He could only manage a few words before darkness crept over him "Protect the kits!"

[{**}]

Ivoryflame attempted to curl around her crying kits, especially the small tortoiseshell, her vision was blurry, and every inch of her body was burning. "D-don't touch them!" she wailed, as Lightenedcall approached, she picked up the brown tabby, flinging her to the ground. "Despicable." Lightenedcall sneered "Poisoned kits! You broke the code. As punishment, you watch them die."

Ivoryflame cried, attempting to stand, but her three legs, too weak to support her, collapsed. She watched in agony as her eldest born kit was flung to the ground, over and over, screeching for help, for her mother. "Striker!" she called "Striker... Striker... of StarClan!" she wailed "Save her!"

Suddenly, her kit's cries stopped. Lightenedcall flung the kit once more, right to Ivoryflame. Where it lay there, it's eyes still closed, an expression of pure terror frozen on her face.

Ivoryflame, so overcome with grief, was helpless when the tortoiseshell kitten was snatched. Again and again, she called for Striker, begging him to save the poor kit. And again, she was forced to watch her kit's life drain before her very eyes. Two of her kits were dead, and only the tom remained. She curled around the crying kit, trying to whisper that things were going to be okay... but as Lightenedcall approached, blood soaking her white paws, a look of pure madness across her face, she couldn't believe it herself.

[{**}]

Ebonywave shook in horror as Lightenedcall padded closer to Ivoryflame. Ebonywave closed her eyes and called out.

"Leave her alone! I'm still right here."

The white she-cat's head spun to where Ebonywave lay. A smile played on her lips, and she looked back at Ivoryflame.

"I'll be back."

Finnick stood up, his eyes slightly gazed.

"Leave... her alone!"

Shrewfang then leaped at Finnick. Finnick snarled and he was too late. Shrewfang slammed Finnick's head against the ground. Finnick looked at Ebonywave.

"I'm sorry..."

Ebonywave licked her kits gently and winced as she heard each paw step getting closer and closer. Then, the largest kit was taken. Ebonywave yowled.

"Are you doing this all because Fellstar wouldn't be your mate!? You should get over it!"

She gasped as she felt paws on her throat. She winced as Shrewfang hissed in her ear.

"Shut your mouth."

He released her throat and she gasped. Then she heard a wail and turned her head away, trying to ignore the sounds of her kit being killed. She then heard a thump near her, and she shook slightly as the scent of death came to her. Her tail wrapped tighter around her two remaining kits.

"Please... please don't!"

But Lightenedcall killed the small black she-cat the same way. Then, the white she-cat stopped. She looked around at the two unconcious toms.

"I have a different plan."

Her eyes narrowed and dug her claws into the ground

Whispers

Ebonywave felt the breeze brush against her fur. She lifted her head and immediately knew someone was standing over her. She shrunk back, memories of Shewfang washing over her. But then, the voice she heard was cold and filled with anger and sorrow.

"Ebonywave. What do you want?"

Ebonywave coughed and her eyes widened. Her heart seemed to beat faster.

"F-finnick!"

She stood up on shaky legs and went to press her cheek against his. He took a step back though, distancing them.

"I ask again, what do you want?"

Her eyes showed pain.

"Finnick... what's wrong?"

He shook his head.

"You didn't show up that one night. I waited every night for a moon. I finally decided to look into your camp to make sure you were alright. I was in the trees, and I saw you. You were laying beside another tom, and you were sharing tongues."

Ebonywave looked horrified.

"No! That was nothing! Let me explain!"

Finnick shook his head.

"There's nothing to explain. You've been lying to me. I saw you two get up and pad to a den with your tails twined together. Don't tell me that's nothing!"

 Finnick's voice was laced with a snarl. Ebonywave hung her head.

"I'm expecting kits Finnick."

He narrowed his eyes and let out a low growl and turned around and started to pad away. She spoke again.

"They're not his."

Finnick stopped in his tracks, and Ebonywave continued.

"He forced me to be his mate. I-i.... He hurt me Finnick. He hit me, and used his claws on me. I was so scared... so frightened. I could never get away from his side. He threatened to kill me. And he just tried to when he learned I was expecting your kits. I jumped into the river to escape. Then, you found me."

She walked slowly forward until she was standing next to Finnick.

"It was meant to be. We were meant to be! We can leave now too. Two cats are trying to kill me now. I'm not safe there. And anyways, I only want to be with you. You're the one who pulled me through those few moons. I thought I was going to die, but you kept me strong. I kept hoping I'd find my way back to you. Now, I did."

Finnick looked at Ebonywave.

"I-i thought you left me. I was so scared. So hurt."

She licked his ear.

"I was too. Let's go now."

Finnick nodded.

"They'll be beautiful. Just like you."

He nosed her belly softly and she felt her ears get hot, and she leaped away.

"Come on. I'll race you."

Finnick laughed lightly.

"To where?"

She padded back to Finnick until they were face to face. Ebonywave whispered quietly.

"To anywhere."

Then she sprang away and ran as fast as her crippled state would let her. They ran away from JayClan and Finnick's group, and the opposite way of Ivoryflame. Finnick followed after her, keeping in pace. The night was starting to come, and the stars soon came out.

You and I ignite like all the stars are in between us
And even though I've run into you
In my life I've yet to see

Ebonywave slowed down slightly. She sit down, breathing hard. He nuzzled her slightly.


"Sorry, I forgot."

She purred and licked him between the ears.

Further than I've ever gone I'm feeling something real
And there's no one else who takes your place
The pull of something real

Finnick looked back.

"It's all gone now. I can't even see the JayClan forest. You sure you want this?"

He looked back to Ebonywave and gasped as she pushed him over. He stared into her face as she stood over him.

"More than anything."

She lied down next to him and he pressed his nose into her shoulder. Finnick looked over her body. Ebonywave's black and white pelt was smooth and soft, but beneath it held scars and bruises, and stories. Around them lay a small field, and further ahead was a forest. The night sky was dark except for the stars that made the white snow seem so much brighter.

"Come on. Just a little farther. I know you're tired, but we can't stay in the open."

She struggled to her feet, and he watched her carefully. Finnick stared in sorrow at her crippled, back leg that restricted her so much. Finnick let Ebonywave lean on him and they slowly made their way to the forest.

So I'll fly over endless skies
Fly until the end of time
Because I don't want you to be let down at all you see
I just wanna have you whisper into me

 He stopped when they found a little hollow.

"Here. I'll catch us some prey. Extra for you."

She lay down heavily and he noticed her stomach slightly bulging out. Then he padded back into the forest, his ears pinned back.

You and I ignite like all the stars are in between us
And even though I've run into you
In my life I've yet to see

He quickly came back with plenty of prey. He set some down beside Ebonywave and she ate it ravenously. He ate his prey more slowly, studying her once again. He never got tired of looking at her. Finnick got up and curled around her, licking her head gently.

Further than I've ever gone I'm feeling something real
And there's no one else who takes your place
The pull of something real

Ebonywave yawned.

"I love you."

Finnick felt her purring and smiled.

"I love you too. I thought you were gone forever."

Ebonywave smiled slightly.

"Now you know how I felt when you left."

He laughed, and licked her again.

So I'll fly over endless skies
Fly until the end of time
Because I don't want you to be let down at all you see
I just wanna have you whisper

Into me
Into me
Into me

"Well, we found each other again. It's destiny, not even the stars can hold us apart."

Ebonywave nodded drowsily.

"Get some sleep now. You need it. So do our kits."

He whispered quietly the last sentence and Ebonywave breathed out deeply, and she drifted into sleep.

I'm finding my way, finding my way
Finding my way back to you
I'm finding my way, finding my way
Finding my way back to you

Because I don't want you to be let down at all you see
I just wanna have you whisper

I'm finding my way, finding my way
Finding my way back to you
I'm finding my way, finding my way
Finding my way back to you

He then closed his eyes, and fell asleep with his heart beating with Ebonywave's.

::---::

It was close to half a moon later, and Ebonywave would be kitting any day now. Her stomach was now round under her, as she had gained her weight back. She groaned.

"I feel like I get bigger everyday."

Finnick smiled slyly. 

"Well your kits are coming any day. Are you sure you're ready? Do we need any herbs?"

She shook her head.

"I think we have everything. I'll be fine Finnick. Really."

She purred and heaved herself up. Finnick leaped forward.

"Here, let me help."

Ebonywave glared at him.

"I can get myself up, thanks."

He stood anxiously to the side as she tottered to the edge of the hollow they had stayed in that first night. Finnick padded up beside Ebonywave. 

"You okay?"

She looked away and shook her head.

"Before we left, Leafdew said since I was smaller... it may cause problems. I try not to show it, but... I'm scared."

Finnick's ears flicked backward.

"You're gonna be great. Everything will be."

Ebonywave nodded than stood still. She had this weird feeling and it was as if she could feel the breeze of a meadow blow across her. She saw glimpses of red and gasped.

"F-finnick. I think we have to go back."

Pain flashed across his eyes.

"What do you mean?"

She shook slightly.

"I think Ivoryflame is in danger. We have to go back!"

He looked away.

"But what about us? This is our home. What about Lightenedcall and Shrewfang? What about the clan? If they find you, they won't let you leave this close to kitting! You can barely even walk!"

She closed her eyes.

"I have to go. Please Finnick. She's my sister."

Finnick searched for the right words, but found none.

"I'm not leaving your side no matter what. I can't lose you. Not again."

His voice expressed his pain and Ebonywave nodded, burying her head into his chest. Then she limped slowly out of the small forest, her belly swaying. Finnick looked back, then caught up to Ebonywave, letting her lean on him. 

As soon as they were back in the JayClan forest, Ebonywave padded silently through. Finnick then saw a flash of silver, and Ebonywave scented a faded, familiar scent.

"Ivoryflame!"

Song is Whispers by New Heights

A Forced Choice

It had been a few moons since Ivoryflame had disappeared. Wandernight hadn't been herself since then, and she was convinced Lightenedcall had something to do with it. Ebonywave limped to her meeting spot with Finnick. Her weight had come back, and she looked more like her old self. Finnick soon padded to the spot, and nuzzled her gently.

"Still no news of Ivoryflame?"

Ebonywave shook her head.

"She left with Striker. That's all I know. But... I don't think she's going to come back."

Finnick sighed and whispered.

"We could leave too..."

Ebonywave took a step back.

"I couldn't! It would kill Wandernight. And Fellstar... I don't know how he would be if he lost all of his kits, and Wandernight. It's just... no. I can't."

Finnick nodded.

"I know. I understand."

His ears pricked forward and he hissed slightly.

"Someone's coming. I better go. I'll see you tonight!"

He pressed his muzzle against her cheek and Ebonywave licked him quickly before he ran away. Ebonywave turned around and Shrewfang's scent washed over her. The tom padded out of the bushes and stood in front of her. She nodded slightly.

"Greetings Shrewfang. What brings you out here?"

She started to pad in the direction of the camp, not trusting the bristly tom who was the kit of Lightenedcall. He padded up beside her, and quickly stopped Ebonywave.

"I came to find you."

Ebonywave tried not to act scared, and she lifted her head.

"Well I was going back to camp, so maybe we can talk there."

She wanted to be around the safety of the clan, and Shrewfang stopped her again, a light growl rising in his voice.

"No. Here's good. And if you don't stay, I'll make you."

Ebonywave crouched on the ground, fear scent quickly rising from her fur.

"What do you want Shrewfang?"

The sandy tom brought his face close to Ebonywave's.

"No need to be afraid. I only want you. You as my mate."

This made Ebonywave break out shaking. She shook her head.

"I-i don't even know you. Let alone like you."

She tried to get up, but Shrewfang placed his paw in her shoulder. Ebonywave cringed away as she felt the tips of his claws."

"I'm not asking you permission. I'm demanding it. I know about that tom. Lightenedcall told me."

He slowly circled Ebonywave.

"You will be my mate. If not, I'll kill you both. I promise you that. Now, we better tell the clan the great news about us."

He pushed Ebonywave up roughly, and she looked even smaller than usual.Shrewfang wrapped his tail around Ebonywave's and she shook violently.

::---::

When they padded into the camp Shrewfang padded over to Fellstar with Ebonywave. The leader was sharing tongues with Wandernight, and they looked up. Shrewfang dipped his head.

"I'd like you to announce to the clan that Ebonywave and I are mates."

Fellstar's eyes narrowed, and Wandernight looked to Ebonywave, then back to Shrewfang.

"When did this happen? I've never noticed you two together."

Wandernight stood up but stayed where she was.

"We wanted to keep it a secret. We knew you two wold disapprove. Isn't that right Ebonywave?"

She nodded stiffly, her face blank of any emotion. Wandernight took a step forward and whispered in her daughters ear. 

"Are you sure Ebonywave? You know you can tell me anything."

The young she-cat felt the piercing stare of Shrewfang burning into her pelt. She nodded again.

"I'm sure. I.... I love him."

She tried to not gag as she spoke the words only meant for Finnick to hear. Shrewfang purred and licked her cheek, a smirk playing on his face.

"If you would please announce it, thank-you."

Shrewfang guided Ebonywave away and looked back as Fellstar addressed the clan.

"Shrewfang and Ebonywave are now... mates. We hope to see more kits soon."

His blind gaze sought out Ebonywave, and he felt something wrong about Ebonywave. The clan came up to the two cats and congratulated them. 

Night soon fell and Ebonywave followed Shrewfang into the warriors den, limping behind him. She lay down, her pelt prickling with fear. Ebonywave stiffened as Shrewfang, who was much larger than she was, curled around her small body. She tried to move her head away but again she felt the pricks of his claws in her side and he licked her cheek roughly. As the rest of the camp fell asleep, Ebonywave couldn't. All she could think about is Finnick waiting for her, and being disappointed when she didn't come.

In the morning Shrewfang stood up and yawned. Ebonywave spoke slightly.

"I-i'm going hunting."

The tom narrowed his eyes.

"No. I don't want you going anywhere without me. We can't risk it, can we?"

She lowered her head, not knowing what to do as she limped out after Shrewfang as what she would one day come to know as some of the worst days of her life.

::---::

It was two and a half moons later, and Ebonywave hadn't seen Finnick since Shrewfang had forced her to become his mate. She felt stiff and sore, and every night she cried silently. Shrewfang attacked her viciously almost everyday. She had so many bruises and scars, though they were all hidden under her fur, and she was too afraid to speak out. She had felt more tired than usual, and slept a lot more.

She padded out of the warriors den close to sun-high one day. She limped slowly to the medicine's cat den, and Shrewfang leaped up to meet her.

"Where are you going?"

His voice disguised a low growl and she flinched.

"I want some herbs. I don't feel okay."

Shrewfang stopped then padded after Ebonywave again, accompanying her to the medicine cat den. She padded into the den and Leafdew looked up from sorting herbs.

"Do you need something Ebonywave?"

She sighed and sat down stiffly.

"I haven't been feeling good."

Leafdew nodded.

"Shrewfang please wait outside the den while I check her over."

He narrowed his eyes but didn't protest and sat close enough outside to hear everything that was said. Leafdew ran her paws over Ebonywave's body and stomach.

"Have you been eating enough? I can feel your bones."

Ebonywave shrugged, and Leafdew looked on in worry. Leafdew stood up.

"Ebonywave."

Leafdew's eyes were bright and she brushed her muzzle again Ebonywave's.

"Congratulations. You're expecting kits. I'll get you some herbs. You're already quite far along. You didn't show that much. That's why no one ever knew. You should move to the nursery soon. I'd say another half moon and they'll be born. You need to eat more too if you want you and your kits to stay healthy. You're naturally small so it may cause problems when the kits come. I want to keep an eye on you from now on."

Leafdew continued to talk, and Ebonywave sat as still as stone. Leafdew's voice was filled with joy at the prospect of more kits.

"Shrewfang will be so happy to find out he's going to be a father!"

This threw Ebonywave out of her shock. In her head she heard the truth flowing through her. She remembered back a while before Shrewfang had taken hold of her. Only a few days before that. She had forgotten the time and fell asleep beside Finnick behind their secret waterfall. These are Finnick's kits. I'm having his kits! Her heart seemed to come alive for the first time in moons. She ate the herbs Leafdew pushed towards her silently.

"I better tell Shrewfang."

Leafdew nodded.

"I know it's a lot to take in, but you'll do fine."

Ebonywave nodded and limped out of the den. She almost ran into Shrewfang who was bristling slightly at the entrance to the den.

"I think we should go into the forest."

She padded after the tom who had abused her, and she shook slightly, scared for the unborn kits in her. She wrapped her tail around herself, silently promising to protect them. Shrewfang stopped, and so did Ebonywave. He stood there for a few silent moments.

"Are they mine?"

She knew he already knew the answer, so she stayed silent. A snarl ripped from his mouth and he spun around, his claws raking across her face. She gasped as warm blood welled along the deep cut. She backed up as Shrewfang advanced on her.

"I should kill you!"

She wailed but it was cut off as he bowled her over, raking his back legs across her stomach, trying to kill her kits. She yowled again and spun around so his claws raked across her spine. He released her and she kept low to the ground, covering her belly in the snow that still carpeted the ground. She flicked her ears back and forth, but Shrewfang seemed to have disappeared. Then, she gasped as the air was knocked out of her as Shrewfang thrust his muscled build into her side. Ebonywave struggled to get her paws under her, and lashed out blindly. Shrewfang leaped back and shook his head to clear the blood that dripped over his eyes. While he was distracted she got up and tried to run. She heard the rushing of the river and ran to the swift sound. Shrewfang was too fast though, he leaped at her and gripped her hind legs with his claws. She yowled and kicked out. Her paw impacted with his face, and she thrust herself towards the river that was so close. Then, before she knew it, the river water swallowed her whole, and she struggled towards the surface, but only saw black...

Lets Get out of this Town

Got it all figured out inside of my head
There's a bag packed up at the foot of my bed
You say the word, baby I'm all set

Ivoryflame waited outside of camp, her heart pounding so loud she was surprised that the clan couldn't hear it. Her breath was shallow as she looked up to the stars, which were twinkling just as bright as ever. Was she really ready to reject everything she'd ever known? So was Striker... but he hated where he was. Ivoryflame didn't. But what was here? Her sister who didn't trust her, a dangerous cat set on killing her....

We'll cover our tracks
Tell a couple white lies
Make sure we got a good alibi
And by the time they catch on
We'll be outta there sight
Long gone baby

Striker padded out of the bushes, his white pelt gleaming under the moon "Are you ready?" his eyes were filled with love for her, and Ivoryflame's doubt washed away. "Ready." she purred, rubbing her cheek against his "More than ready."

Striker smiled "Alright, I know the perfect place to go. Quiet, simple, no trees. Nothing like this place."

"You go ahead, I'll catch up." Ivoryflame purred, he tried to pretest, but the look in her eyes made him nod "Alright"

Ivoryflame gazed at camp "I'm sorry Ebonywave. I'll never forget you."

Let's get out of this town tonight
Nothing but dust in the shadows
Gone by morning light
Somewhere we won't ever get caught, ever be found
Baby, let's just get out of this town

Her paws silent across the grass, even with the legs, she soon caught up to Striker. Striker looked at her "Are you sure-"
Ivoryflame shook her head "I am Striker. I'm no use to them anyway. And... I don't want to live anywhere where loving you is forbidden."

Striker purred "Me neither."

Walking so close to eachother that their pelts brushed, Ivoryflame looked behind her, where JayClan was slowly dissapearing behind her.

Don't need directions
Don't need a map
If we get lost I'll be good with that

Soon, the green forest gave way to black and her home was gone. Yet, Ivoryflame didn't regret it. She didn't feel sad, didn't want to go home. In fact, she wanted to run further. Further into the approaching hills.

Yeah, we'll find a way to make the time pass
Windows rolled down with the heat on high
Stars all aligned in a runaway sky
Holding my hand as the miles roll by
Long gone baby

"Tell me more about your home." Ivoryflame whispered as dawn began to break through the black night
Striker sighed "Awful. I mean, it didn't used to be. When I first met you, I loved the place. My father... he was leader, and my mother was the healer. It was great. My brother was going to be leader and I was going to be healer... and my sister, Mai, she was going to be the lead advisor.
That all changed the day Me, Mai and Mom, her name was Jana, went to gather herbs one day. I... I ran onto a clans territory, and... well, the clan caught me and Mai. They... they killed Mai before Jana got to me. I watched her die... bleed out in front of me, gasping. She told me..." he swallowed "She told me she didn't want to die..."
"Jana s-saved me... but... she was so sad after Mai died. She was depressed... and we found her in a lake one day. Drowned."

Ivoryflame's eyes widened "Striker..."

"Craw... my father, he... well, blamed me. I was exiled. I lived there in ridecule."

Ivoryflame sighed, looking up at him, he continued "I'm glad I found you Ivoryflame... or... I don't know what I'd have done."

Let's get out of this town tonight
Nothing but dust in the shadows
Gone by morning light
Somewhere we won't ever get caught, ever be found
Baby, let's just get out of this town

Ivoryflame looked at him "No, Striker. No..." she licked his cheek "You saved me." I didn't even know who I was. You've changed me... in ways I never imagined possible" She purred "And now, we'll spend forever together. They'll never find us."

She looked up at the hills winding above her, the amber grass crunched beneath her paws. She was free. Finally free. She didn't have to worry about what the clan though, or whether she would die the next day in some horrible way. "We're long gone."

She wondered vaguely if the clan had discovered she was gone yet. Would they? Ebonywave would. She'd suspected her of planning this yesterday. Or maybe she was out with Finnick?

If we leave tonight and drive fast enough
All our troubles will be just like us
Long gone baby

Striker smiled "We're here." he led her to a small hill, where the amber grass was taller than them "Just in here." he led her through the Amber grass into a dark, cool cave. A pool of water was in the middle. The walls were braided with grass and two freshly made beds sat in the corner, a small pile of fresh kill was packed at the other corner, along with herbs Ivoryflame recognized from the Medicine Cat den "I... had some time to prepare." Striker whispered sheepishly.

Ivoryflame purred, looked out through the entrance. Golden Plains stretched out in front of her. The air smelt sweet, and small birds of prey flew in the sky, she could hunt them.... if she tried.

"This isn't it." striker purred, he led her down a series of tunnels until they finally came across a small stream. Water trickled down from all around the walls, feading into the stream. A small light came through a crack on the far side of the wall, hitting the water and casting colors across the entire room. "I call it the Shimmer Cave." Striker whispered "Amazing... isn't it." green grass crunched under her paws... just like home.

She sat with Striker in the Shimmer Cave until Nightfall. The Colors cast around began to fade slowly, leaving only the trackling of water. Smiling, she padded through the tunnels, emerging in the warm cave. She finally felt free. She padded over to Striker and curled up next to him.

As she closed her eyes, she felt his gaze upon her "I love you." and she fell into warm, bright, swirling colors.

Let's get out of this town tonight
Nothing but dust in the shadows
Gone by morning light
Somewhere we won't ever get caught, ever be found

Yeah let's get out of this town tonight
Let's get out of this town tonight
We won't ever get caught, ever be found
Baby, let's just get out of this town

[SONG (c) Carrie Underwood]

Finding You

Ebonywave padded through the forest. It had been a few moons since she had run away from Finnick's camp. Everyday the sorrow tore at her, distancing her further and further from the clan. It was just too much for her. Sometimes she would sneak off of JayClan territory to the waterfall Finnick had told her. His scent was stale now, almost gone from the water. But she'd still curl up on the cold stone, sometimes staying the whole night. She'd go back to camp with ice sticking to her fur, and her teeth chattering. Fellstar tried to ask her questions of where she was going, but she always brushed them away. Once, Ebonywave got so badly sick she could barely walk.
Now, she found herself once again in the cave behind the waterfall. Tears welled at her eyes and she sat down, facing towards the waterfall that was frozen in places. Her black and white pelt was soon soaked, and she was shivering so badly. But Ebonywave seemed to be in a different place as she sat there silently. Silently, slowly dying on the inside.

::---::

A silver tom padded through the territory. His long tail whisked from side to side, and his ice blue eyes seemed to be hardened down with some emotion. Scars laced his body, but they were mostly covered by his long fur. Though the ones that weren't, showed his true life. He had fought vicious battles, and usually his opponent didn't live.

But now, he walked up a secret slope to a cave hidden behind a waterfall. He looked up when he got to the cave, and his eyes slightly widened. Sitting there, was a small black and white she-cat, who was soaked to the bone. Ebonywave.

He stared at her. Her ribs were visible beneath her wet fur, and she just looked horrible. He took a step forward, then another and then he was by her side. He grabbed her scruff roughly, but then carefully dragged her down the rough stone. Once he was on snow, he walked faster, going back to his camp.

He walked in, dragging her behind him. He was met by a black cat, Aesir. Aesir narrowed his eyes, but then Ebonywave's eyes finally opened. She sniffed the air slightly.

"F-finnick...?"

Finnick stared down at Ebonywave as her eyes closed just as fast as they had opened. Finnick turned to Aesir.

"We have to help her."

Aesir snorted.

"If you wanted to help her, you should have brought her back to her own clan."

Finnick growled.

"If you value one thing, that thing is she-cat's. Let her live!"

The black cat shook his head.

"She's an enemy."

Finnick took a step forward.

"I'm going to be leader soon. Don't try to say we all can't notice how you're getting older. I know your joints are sore."

Aesir snarled.

"I am fine. And as long as I'm leader, I make the decisions. I want you to kill her."

Finnick shook his head.

"What if she wasn't an enemy. What if she... joined our group."

His father laughed.

"She's blind, and crippled. She will be of no use either way."

The silver tom shook his head.

"If I have to fight you, I will. And we both know who will win. Once she's better, she'll leave. I won't make her join this group. She deserves a better life."

He narrowed his eyes and turned to Ebonywave. He dragged her into his private den and licked her fur until she was dry. He made sure she was warm. He looked at her, memories flooding his mind. He sighed, and sat in the entrance of his den.

At Last.

Fellstar beamed as he leaped up onto the Jaybranch, calling the clan to order "All cats old catch their own prey gather at the JayBranch for a clan meeting!" He smiled as he scented his his daughters, gathered with the rest of the clan under the JayBranch. They had made great strides in their training, developing new ways for hunting and fighting. He remembered when they were young kits, now they were adults, young and beautiful, and it was their due time to become warriors

"I, Fellstar, leader of JayClan, call upon my warrior ancestors to look down on these apprentices. They have trained hard to understand the ways of your noble code, and I commend them to you as warriors in turn.

Ebonypaw, do you promise to uphold the warrior code and to protect and defend your Clan, even at the cost of your life?"

"I do."

"Then by the powers of StarClan, I give you your warrior name. Ebonypaw, from this moment you will be known as Ebonywave. StarClan honors your determination, and we welcome you as a full warrior of JayClan.

Fellstar rested his muzzle on Ebonywave's head and whispered something in her ear. Ebonywave smiled and stepped back.

"Ivorypaw, do you promise to uphold the warrior code and to protect and defend your Clan, even at the cost of your life?"

"I do."

"Then by the powers of StarClan, I give you your warrior name. Ivorypaw, from this moment you will be known as Ivoryflame, StarClan honors your kindness, and we welcome you as a full warrior of JayClan."

Ivoryflame beamed as he rested his head on her muzzle.

Ivoryflame! Ebonywave! Ivoryflame! Ebonywave!

Fellstar leaped down from the Jaybranch and immediately ran into a cat. He stopped... it was Lightenedcall. "Don't think just because their warriors, they'll live." she hissed and ran off.

Striker

Striker finally got back to camp about moonhigh, and instantly regretted coming back at all. Ehel, of course, had to be guarding camp. Striker attempted to strut into camp, his head held high, but as soon as he came into Ehel's line of vision, the sleek white tom spat at him "Stupid brother. What were you doing out so late anyway?"

Striker shook his head "Nothing."

Ehel hissed and struck him on the head, claws unsheated "Don't lie to me, you were out seeing that she-cat. Fraternizing with Clan cats again." Ehel looked disgusted and Striker cringed "If you are going to take the position of healer, Like you were meant, you cannot be with those vile disgraces of cats."

Striker growled "She is NOT vile. She's not like the other cats."

Ehel hissed "Naive cat, all clan cats are the same. They killed Mae." Just the mention of Mae made Striker's heart heavy with grief "Don't even bring her into this!" Ehel ignored him
"Your lucky I don't tell Craw, he'd demote you. You'd never be healer!"
"Well maybe I don't WANT to be healer!" Striker spat, wincing as Ehel raised his paw to Strike him again, instead, Ehel's voice grew deadly calm "It was our mother's wish that you become healer, and I become leader. Now, understand this you will do as mother wished..."
Striker looked away, he was going to bring it up again
"Seeing as you were the one that killed her."


Striker woke in the morning, his fur ruffled by the wind. As he padded out of his little corner in camp, the usual hisses of "Loser!" and "Weakling!" greeted him, even Craw joined in, his amber eyes glinting as they usually did when Striker walked out.

Ehel glared at him, and Striker made his way toward Makahl, his ears pinned back. The old she-cat smiled at him, her tortoiseshell pelt was now lined with gray. Craw would soon banish her from camp and strand her on clan territory, and he would loose his only ally.

Makahl acted like she didn't realize her days were limited, but her voice was urgent when she talked to him "You have to know your herbs. You're soon going to be taking my place." her eyes were sad "Sooner than you think."

Striker narrowed his eyes, "Makahl?"

She shook her head "If I have taught you anything, its not to dwell on the Negatives boy. I will always be looking down on you,"

Striker looked away "How?"

Makahl winked "The clouds."

"Those big fluffy things in the sky?"

Makahl nodded "When a cat passes, their spirit become wispy, and white, it floats up to the sky, and stays there, so they can look down on the cats they love, in other words a cloud."

Striker felt close to tears "Makahl..."

Craw padded in, shoving Striker aside "Makahl-" he began

"Don't give me the speech, I know whats coming." she looked at Striker "Good luck healer. Look to the sky, if you are ever in need."

Striker watched as Craw led Makahl away, her head held high. There went his tutor. His ally. His one and only friend.

The Life of Finnick

Finnick ran through the forest, streaking silently across the ground. Once he was out of JayClan territory, he gasped for breath and looked up. He sighed, and looked around, before slipping into a hollow tree. On the other side was a large, hollow. When he padded in, he was knocked down. He snarled and kicked out with his back legs, but he was pinned down. He stared into the ice blue eyes. The black cat stared at him.

"What do you think you're doing!?"

The cat hissed, and dug his claws into Finnick's shoulders.

"I told you to stay away from her. Do you want more scars?!"

Finnick struggled, but that only made the black cat dig his claws in farther.

"Answer me."

Finnick bared his teeth.

"Hurt me all you want, I will never stop seeing her."

The black cat snarled, and ripped through Finnick's flesh. He winced, but tried not to react.

"I have a better idea. Why would I hurt you, when I can hurt her."

Finnick leaped up and snarled.

"You can't! She never trespassed!"

The black cat smirked.

"Oh, but what if she did? If she does, I'll be the one to attack her. You can count on that."

Finnick lowered his head, his blue eyes matching the colour of the black cat's.

"Then you wouldn't be my father. I will kill you before you ever lay a paw on her. Then I will leave this group. If you can even call it that, Aesir."

Aesir narrowed his eyes, and struck out. Finnick yowled in pain, and backed up, shaking his head. Cats had come out to watch, and had formed a circle around the two toms. Aesir flicked his tail.

"Don't kill him. I don't want the next leader of our group dead."

Aesir walked out of the circle, and didn't look back as the cats leaped onto Finnick. Finnick yowled in pain as the cats tore into him, giving him the punishment of a traitor. Though a traitor would normally be killed.

As the sun was going down, the cats moved away from Finnick, leaving him in the middle of the hollow, torn and bloody. He crawled to the edge of the clearing, his eyes glassy and his silver pelt tinted red. He then saw blue eyes coming towards him, and stiffened when he saw it was Aesir.

"Have you learned your lesson?"

Finnick glared up at his father, breathing heavily. His eyes burned with rage, and he struggled onto shaky legs.

"I... will... never... listen to you."

Aesir snarled viciously and grabbed Finnick and threw him against the ground. Finnick's vision blurred and it felt like his mind went numb. Aesir leaned down, hissing into Finnick's ear.

"I hope you die. As long as I live, you will never be considered my son."

Finnick smiled slightly.

"Then maybe you should die."

He leaped up with the last of his strength and grabbed Aesir's neck. Aesir yowled and slammed his paw into Finnick's face. He gasped, and let his father's neck go, before falling limp to the ground. Aesir padded away, his fur standing on end.

::---::

Ebonypaw followed the scent of Finnick until the scent became stronger. It was soon mixed with the scent of other cats, and the reek of blood hit Ebonypaw. She padded quickly, and padded silently into the hollow. She sniffed the air, and heard the deep breathing of many cats sleeping. Ebonypaw's ears spun and she heard coarse breathing, and recognized Finnick's scent mixed with blood. She ran over to where Finnick was.

"F-finnick!?"

He raised his head slightly, trying to see through the blood.

"Ebonypaw...?"

She licked his head fiercely, tears streaming down her face.

"W-what happened?!"

He shook his head.

"You have to leave. He'll kill you. You still have a life. I'm dying, I can feel it. Go back to your own territory, prepare your clan for an attack. It may come. You can still live."

She shook her head slowly.

"N-no. I'm not leaving you. I'll save you. I-i'll fix you!"

Finnick laughed slightly.

"There's no hope for me. Please, leave, for me? I couldn't die knowing you died. I would have died for no reason. It would all have been a waste, protecting you."

Ebonypaw sobbed, and gasped for breath.

"You aren't going to die! I-i can't let you! You saved me. I couldn't- I can't live without you. I-i love you."

She buried her head into his blood soaked fur, and he sighed, purring slightly.

"I... I love you too. Please, be okay. For me. You'd leave if you wanted me to be happy. I only want you to be safe. Please."

Ebonypaw stood still, the only sound was of the other cats. She lifted her head, and licked his shoulder, then his cheek, then his forehead.

"I love you. Please remember that, and I'll find you again. I swear by it."

Finnick smiled as he looked up at her determined face.

"I'll remember everything. Good-bye..."

Ebonypaw nodded, before turning around. She looked back once more, seeing only darkness, but she could imagine his body laying there, his sweet scent came to her through the blood, and she stifled a wail, before running as fast as she could with her leg. Once she was a safe distance in her own territory she collapsed and curled into a ball. 

Once the sun started to come up, she got up, her legs stiff. She shook slightly, and she limped back to camp. Ebonypaw stumbled into camp, trying to get to the apprentices den. As she was walking in, Ivorypaw came out.

"Ebonypaw? Where have you been? What happened?"