Hidden Whispers

Prologue
They still called themselves LeafClan, even though they were no longer anything like a Clan or a Tribe, but something in between. Stonestar, their leader, held all the power, but Star read the messages from their ancestors. They didn't know who their ancestors were, or where they resided, but they knew they were there. It was Star who chose the she-cat. His paws had been guided by their ancestors, and the young she-cat had been chosen. She would be Stonestar's mate, and bear his kits. The first-born would be the next leader of LeafClan.

Ripple was the she-cat chosen. Star came to the den where she and her sister slept in the middle of the night. Ripple sat bolt upright, hearing a noise. Her sister, Mintdapple, was already awake. She slapped her tail over Ripple's mouth, keeping her quiet. But of course both of them relaxed when they realised it was only Star. He pushed his way into the den, his head streaked with the silver mark that showed his ancestors approval of him.

Star dipped his head to the she-cats. "Greetings, Mintdapple, Ripple. Our ancestors have sent a sign. Ripple, you will be Stonestar's mate. It is a great honour, but you will have to say goodbye to your sister now. You will not see her again. You will live in the cave with Stonestar, and not leave it until your life is spent."

Ripple dipped her head in return. "I accept. Thank you Star. And I thank my ancestors, for granting me this honour."

The two sisters had bid each other farewell. Ripple buried her face in Mintdapple's fur, and murmured a few words, then followed Star away from the den.