Cedarpaw's Journey: A Dark Secret

'*NOTE!* The following story, art, and characters are my very own and therefore need my permission to be in other people's stories. Please do not edit this without my consent, and do not comment rude things. Thanks! Finally, please do enjoy!-HorsestarOfHorseClan'

Blurb
"Beware of two dark cats who threaten to bring destruction to the Clans."

''Cedarpaw is a young HorseClan apprentice about to become a warrior. Everything seems to be fine in her life until her best friend reveals a foreboding prophecy. "Beware of two dark cats who threaten the Clans." Cedarpaw's friend knows that Cedarpaw is part of the prophecy, the cat who is destined to meet the dark cats. Young Cedarpaw and her friends try to do everything they can until one thing is obvious-you cannot change your own fate. When the dark cats arrive with an army of their own, Cedarpaw and her friends embark on a journey to find help and save their Clans. Will the young she-cat succeed or will it all end in violence and distress?''

Allegiances
HorseClan

Leader:

Horsestar-small, long-furred, tortoiseshell-and-white she-cat with a half-black-half-white face, blue eyes, and a long, bushy black tail with a ginger tip

Apprentice-Arrowpaw

Deputy:

Sparrowblaze-black tom with yellow eyes, a dark orange underside, a white stripe down his spine, and a black-and-white striped tail

Apprentice-Littlepaw

Medicine Cat:

Darkmist-sleek, dark gray she-cat with short, thick fur and dark green eyes

Apprentice-Barkpaw

Warriors:

Birchstripe-huge, short-furred, cream-and-brown tom with amber eyes

Apprentice-Redpaw

Blackbear-massive, battle-scarred black tom with yellow eyes

Apprentice-Cedarpaw

Goldentail-handsome, shiny, golden tabby tom with green eyes

Apprentice-Rockpaw

Falconfall-pretty, gray tabby she-cat with bright green eyes

Apprentice-Ashpaw

Wheatfur-very pale ginger tabby she-cat with blue eyes

Cornpelt-white-and-yellow patched tom with green eyes

Honeywish-white she-cat with blue eyes and golden tabby patches

Apprentice-Chivepaw

Vixenfur-dark red she-cat with thick fur, yellow eyes, and a bushy, white-tipped tail

Foxfrost-white tabby she-cat with ginger stripes and blue eyes

Snipewing-gray-and-white tom with green eyes

Apprentice-Flamepaw

Thornstripe-dark brown tabby tom with yellow eyes and black stripes

Brazenheart-golden-brown tom with green eyes

Wolfpeak-solid gray tom with short, clumpy fur and amber eyes

Apprentice-Shadowpaw

Brindleshade-huge brown tabby she-cat with yellow eyes

Apprentice-Eaglepaw

Moonflight-black she-cat with green eyes, a broad head, white ears, white paws, and a white tip on her tail

Apprentice-Sunpaw

Icewind-lean white tom with gray ears and ice-blue eyes

Larkstream-black-and-white she-cat with green eyes

Apprentices:

Arrowpaw-black tabby she-cat with silver stripes and electric blue eyes

Sunpaw-yellow she-cat with green eyes

Redpaw-dark red tom with a white underside and green eyes

Littlepaw-primarily black tortoiseshell she-cat with yellow eyes and flecks of russet, tan, brown, and ginger

Ashpaw-long-furred dark gray she-cat with black smudges and amber eyes

Shadowpaw-dark gray, almost black, she-cat with dark green eyes and white-tipped ears

Flamepaw-bright orange tom with white paws and yellow eyes

Cedarpaw-light brown tabby she-cat with white paws, a white chest, a white tail, and unusual sea-green eyes

Barkpaw-black tom with huge amber eyes, a twisted hind leg, and prickly, bushy fur, in training to become a medicine cat

Chivepaw-brown-and-black tom with green eyes

Queens:

Owlnight-black she-cat with white flecks and blue eyes

Gingerbird-very pale ginger she-cat with green eyes

Frozenfur-pretty, long-furred white she-cat with blue eyes and silver-tipped fur

Talltulip-long-legged tortoiseshell she-cat with stormy green eyes

Dawnberry-dark gray she-cat with yellow eyes and a white stripe on her head

Kestrelheart-brown she-cat with green eyes and a white chest

Poppystem-cream she-cat with black stripes and blue eyes

Aldermist-cream-and-brown she-cat with yellow eyes

Elders:

Glowfoot-pale yellow she-cat with amber eyes and white paws

Bladeclaw-dark gray tabby tom with stormy blue eyes and sharp claws, retired due to hearing loss

Tinytail-small, gray-and-white she-cat with blue eyes and a short, thin tail

Shadypool-dark gray she-cat with green eyes and a black stripe on her forehead

Gorsebush-grizzled, matted, long-furred gray tom with amber eyes and a broad, flat face

Snowdrop-white she-cat with orange eyes

Waspstripe-yellow tom with black stripes and green eyes

Cloudwhisker-soft, fluffy black-and-white she-cat with long whiskers and amber eyes

Blindwillow-pale gray she-cat with pure white eyes, oldest cat in HorseClan

StreamClan

Leader:

Wrenstar-black-and-white tom with amber eyes

Deputy:

Swiftmoth-gray-and-brown tom with green eyes

Medicine Cat:

Amberwhisker-orange-and-white she-cat with yellow eyes

Warriors:

Happyfeather-yellow-and-gray patched tom with green eyes

Apprentice-Hollypaw

Foxstorm-ginger she-cat with blue eyes

Apprentice-Dogpaw

Redriver-reddish-brown tabby tom with amber eyes

Sheepcloud-curly-furred, white she-cat with yellow eyes

Timberclaw-brown tabby tom with blue eyes and black paws

Applewolf-gray tom with ginger splotches and green eyes

Rivertail-gray tom with a long tail and amber eyes

Apprentice-Stripepaw

Emberwave-black-and-gray she-cat with amber eyes

Apprentice-Nettlepaw

Yelloweyes-white she-cat with yellow eyes

Docktail-black tom with brown-and-white patches, yellow eyes

Goosewhisker-tortoiseshell she-cat with white paws and blue eyes

Tigertail-dark orange tom with black stripes and yellow eyes

Apprentice-Snowpaw

Apprentices:

Hollypaw-short-furred white she-cat with dark red patches, blue eyes, and a bushy tail

Snowpaw-white she-cat with dark blue eyes and a bushy tail

Nettlepaw-gray-and-black tom with yellow eyes

Dogpaw-brown tabby she-cat with yellow eyes and white ears

Stripepaw-white tabby tom with amber eyes and black stripes

Queens:

Longstripe-white she-cat with a long black stripe down her back and blue eyes

Beechshine-white she-cat with dark red patches and green eyes

Wavypelt-curly-furred gray she-cat with green eyes

Mothfur-gray tabby she-cat with amber eyes

Skystream-pale gray she-cat with blue eyes

Elders:

Jayfrost-blue-gray tabby tom with green eyes

Violetheart-pale ginger she-cat with amber eyes

Firefur-bright orange tom with yellow eyes

Nightfoot-black tom with blue eyes

Blueclaw-blue-gray she-cat with yellow eyes

TreeClan:

Leader:

Crumpledstar-pale yellow tabby tom with green eyes, black stripes, and a crooked tail

Deputy:

Graysky-pale gray tom with yellow eyes

Medicine Cat:

Dovestripe-misty, blue-gray she-cat with yellow eyes

Warriors:

Beechwhisker-brown-and-yellow patched tom with green eyes

Apprentice-Raccoonpaw

Maplefur-ginger she-cat with white ears and paws, blue eyes

Apprentice-Blossompaw

Rosefoot-pale ginger tabby she-cat with amber eyes

Apprentice-Petalpaw

Nutclaw-nut-brown tom with cream spots and yellow eyes

Apprentice-Whitepaw

Mallowtooth-pale yellow tom with blue eyes

Nickear-gray-and-black tom with a severely nicked ear and amber eyes

Apprentice-Juniperpaw

Oakwish-reddish tabby she-cat with green eyes and white paws

Quicksquirrel-grayish-brown she-cat with amber eyes

Apprentice-Stormpaw

Swiftclaw-silver spotted tom with amber eyes

Sprucepelt-dark brown tabby tom with black spots and blue eyes

Cypressclaw-gray she-cat with yellow eyes

Apprentices:

Raccoonpaw-gray tom with black ears, a black-and-white striped tail, and a black mask over his green eyes

Whitepaw-long-furred white she-cat with yellow eyes

Juniperpaw-brown she-cat with white tabby stripes

Stormpaw-dark gray-and-white tom with yellow eyes

Blossompaw-white-and-gray she-cat with amber eyes

Queens:

Silverminnow-silver tabby she-cat with blue eyes

Alderfire-brown she-cat with a ginger chest, ginger ears, and ginger paws

Logheart-dark tortoiseshell she-cat with yellow eyes

Elders:

Frostfang-white tom with a black underside and amber eyes

Turtletoe-tortoiseshell-and-white she-cat with green eyes and an extra toe

Scarletwhisker-dark red she-cat with blue eyes

Foxberry-ginger she-cat with black paws

StoneClan

Leader:

Deadstar-light gray tom with one blue eye and a slash through a white eye as well as a torn ear

Deputy:

Bloodsplotch-gray tom with dark red splotches and yellow eyes

Medicine Cat:

Emberstone-gray tabby she-cat with black stripes and amber eyes

Warriors:

Pansypetal-white-and-ginger patched she-cat with blue eyes

Apprentice-Sandypaw

Amberfur-golden-brown she-cat with green eyes

Goldmoon-golden tabby she-cat with amber eyes

Apprentice-Adderpaw

Whiskerpad-gray-and-brown tom with blue eyes

Apprentice-Tigerpaw

Ebonyspots-white tom with black specks and green eyes

Apprentice-Pricklypaw

Geckotail-long-furred ginger she-cat with black speckles and yellow eyes

Apprentice-Petalpaw

Mouserun-dusky brown she-cat with black stripes and yellow eyes

Lioness-matted yellow she-cat with a white muzzle, dark blue eyes, and a fierce temper; formerly a rogue

Apprentice-Gingerpaw

Fierytail-ginger tom with green eyes and white paws

Apprentice-Mosspaw

Bearslash-shaggy, matted, long-furred black tom with green eyes and torn ears

Apprentice-Wormpaw

Rookclaw-battered black tom with soft fur and amber eyes

Apprentice-Boulderpaw

Kinkfoot-brown-and-white she-cat with a missing foot and yellow eyes

Apprentices:

Sandypaw-pale ginger tom with blue eyes

Adderpaw-dark brown tom with yellow eyes and black spots

Pricklypaw-light brown she-cat with prickly fur and green eyes

Petalpaw-white she-cat with blue eyes

Gingerpaw- dark ginger tabby she-cat with green eyes

Mosspaw-black-and-white she-cat with yellow eyes

Wormpaw-solid brown tom with amber eyes

Boulderpaw-gray tabby tom with yellow eyes

Elders:

Frostbite-cold-hearted gray tabby-and-white patched she-cat with blue eyes

Manglewhisker-dark brown tabby tom with amber eyes and twisted whiskers

Piperwhisker-she-cat with gray, black, and white flecked fur, green eyes

Chapter One
It was a frigid morning. Cedarpaw raced through the forest, her paws beginning to ache from the run. Good, she thought. ''I lost him. ''Just then, a massive, battle-scarred black tom crashed through the bushes and cannoned into Cedarpaw, knocking her sideways. Thumping onto the ground, her chest and flanks heaved as her paws scrabbled the damp, cold earth, desperately in search of a good paw-hold. The black tom backed away, his yellow eyes aglow with silent victory. Rage swelled in Cedarpaw's throat. With a furious yowl, she flung herself at the tom and hooked her claws in his scraggly pelt. The black cat thrashed beneath her in a desperate attempt to free himself from the HorseClan apprentice's grip. Cedarpaw flopped around but kept her claws embedded deep into his skin. Just then, the tom gave a mighty fling of his vast body, sending Cedarpaw flying into the bushes. "Give up yet, Cedarpaw?" he asked, mischief gleaming in his yellow irises.

"Never!" Cedarpaw spat back bravely. However, just as she leaped at him, the black tom sheathed his claws and batted her away like an annoying kit. "Come on!" she puffed. "I had you there!" The tom shook his broad, mighty head slowly. "I think we should be heading back to camp," he mewed, shooting a glance at the sky. "I promised Horsestar I'd speak to her this morning."

"Aww!" Cedarpaw's pelt prickled in frustration. "But I want to be a warrior, like you!" she meowed, disappointment edging her kittish voice. "You said I would be one if I practiced. But you won't practice! Come on, Blackbear!" Blackbear narrowed his eyes with amusement. Twitching his whiskers, his flicked his tail for her to follow him. "Come, young Cedarpaw," he purred. "Let's talk to Horsestar first." Cedarpaw's feet felt heavy as she trudged back to camp. Foxfrost, a young white-and-orange tabby warrior, was standing guard. With a respectful dip of her head to Blackbear, she moved aside to let her Clanmates pass. Just then, another warrior, Goldentail, appeared with two mice and a squirrel hanging from his jaws.

"Good catch, Goldentail," purred Blackbear. "You're already a fine hunter. Are you ready for the Gathering tonight?" The handsome golden tabby twitched his whiskers and beckoned for them to follow him. Cedarpaw huffed under her breath. After setting down his prey in the prey pile, Goldentail twitched an ear. "I certainly hope I am," he purred, "but I'm not sure I'm even going." Blackbear looked surprised, and Cedarpaw scuffed the dirt with her paws. After a few moments of hearing them speak, she asked Blackbear, "Can I be excused?" Blackbear nodded, and Cedarpaw scampered off.

Finally she made it to the apprentice den and settled down in her nest. Redpaw and Littlepaw were there already, grooming each other's fur. "Hey, Cedarpaw," murmured Redpaw in between licks. "Are you looking for Eaglepaw?" Cedarpaw nodded, even though she had only come to rest. Redpaw flicked his tail toward the entrance and mewed, "I saw him just a few seconds ago. He hurt his leg from climbing and went to see Darkmist. he's got a nasty scratch on his back leg." Cedarpaw nodded and took off.

Upon arriving at Darkmist's den, she paused to look around as the sweet scent of herbs engulfed her. The herbs were perfectly sorted with every known healing herb there was. Three comfortable nests were inside the den; two on one side for Darkmist and Barkpaw, her apprentice, and one on the other side for a sick or wounded patient. "Darkmist?" whispered Cedarpaw, afraid to disturb the soft silence hanging around the den. Just then, a prickly black tom hobbled forward, hindered by a twisted, mangled-looking hind leg. His round amber eyes were huge and shone in the dim light that spilled through the entrance. "Cedarpaw!" he cried, picking up his slow, uneven pace.

"Barkpaw!" Cedarpaw chirped, hurrying to meet him. "Where is Eaglepaw? Redpaw said he was here." Barkpaw looked confused, then relaxed. "Oh, yes. I remember," he meowed thoughtfully. "He went to go talk to his mentor. Although I'm sure Brindleshade will make him train even harder, knowing just how harsh she can be," he said, swiping his tongue over his paw. Cedarpaw shuddered, picturing the huge brown she-cat with her rippling tabby pelt and searing eyes. "I believe you," she replied, her voice slightly quivering. Barkpaw noticed her anxiety, or so it seemed, and licked Cedarpaw between her ears. "Wow, I'm hungry. Will you go fetch me some fresh-kill? I think Goldentail went hunting earlier," he said. Cedarpaw nodded. "Of course. I'll be right back." Turning tail, she rushed over to the fresh-kill pile where Sparrowblaze, Horsestar's mate and deputy, stood. "Hey, Cedarpaw," he yowled when he saw her.

"Hello, Sparrowblaze," mewed Cedarpaw. "I was just getting some fresh-kill for Barkpaw." Sparrowblaze nodded. "Well, in that case, will you please tell Barkpaw to come to Horsestar's tree? She's about to call a Clan meeting." Cedarpaw nodded, and the deputy sprang away. Cedarpaw bent her neck and selected a plump rabbit in her jaws and carried it to the medicine den. Dropping it in front of Barkpaw, she meowed, "We need to hurry, Horsestar's calling a Clan meeting." Barkpaw's huge eyes widened. "Is she?" he squeaked. "Well then, we'd better share." He pushed the rabbit in front of Cedarpaw, and she bit into it, relishing the taste of warm, tender meat. Just then, a yowl broke through the still air.

"May all cats old enough to climb gather beneath the Sky Branch for a Clan meeting!" It was Horsestar, the HorseClan leader. Cedarpaw dashed out of the medicine den, followed by Barkpaw. She led the way as they settled down in front of their leader. The beautiful tortoiseshell-and-white she-cat looked down, the sun's light reflecting off her silky, colorful pelt. "As you know, the Gathering is tonight. I am calling this meeting to select who will come with me." Her dark blue eyes scanned the crowd of cats. "The following cats who are coming with me are Sparrowblaze, Blackbear, Goldentail, Honeywish, Foxfrost, Thornstripe, Brindleshade, Icewind, Darkmist, Owlnight, Brazenheart, Frozenfur, Falconfall, Shadypool, Gorsebush,Glowfoot, Birchstripe, Moonflight, Littlepaw, Arrowpaw, Sunpaw, Redpaw, Eaglepaw, Cedarpaw, Shadowpaw, Flamepaw, Ashpaw, and Barkpaw. Dismissed." With a flick of her long, bushy tail, she leaped powerfully down and padded into her den followed by Sparrowblaze and her sister, Moonflight.

Barkpaw's eyes lit up from beside Cedarpaw. She stole a glance at the black medicine apprentice and asked, "What is it?" Barkpaw turned to her excitedly. "Did you know," he meowed, "that Horsestar is expecting kits?" He shivered with excitement, and Cedarpaw felt confused. "So?" she mewed. "She-cats have kits all the time. Is there something I missed?" Barkpaw glanced up at her, pride gleaming in his eyes. "I get to help the Clan leader have her kits," he squeaked proudly. "Darkmist said so, and I'm so excited! Plus, we have the most warriors of any Clan, and now we'll have more! We'll be invincible!" Cedarpaw nodded. "Huh," she said, "I guess you're right."

"The Gathering is beginning soon," yowled Horsestar, lashing her tail. "We will leave when I give the signal!" Sparrowblaze hurried over to his mate. "The Gathering does start until the moon rises. I think you should rest, love." Cedarpaw scurried over, tripping over a branch. "Oof!" she cried. "That hurt!" She turned and licked her hind leg. "At least it's free time," she meowed to herself. Pushing herself up to her paws, she turned and ran into the nursery to speak with her mother, Poppystem. "Cedarpaw!" squeaked Larchkit, her tiny brother. The little cream-and-brown tabby pushed his way toward her. "Can I play with your tail?" Cedarpaw flicked her long white tail out from behind her and wiggled it in front of her brother. "May I speak with you, Poppystem?" she asked her mother. The tabby stirred and sat up. "You may," she purred. "What's wrong?"

Cedarpaw looked at her. "I just needed someone to talk to, that's all. I came to ask you a question, though." Suddenly, she realized with a jolt that there was no question. "Uh-when will Larchkit be apprenticed?" A flicker of amusement twitched through Poppystem's whiskers. "Not for another five moons," she purred. "You know that." Her head tilted. "Is there more?" Cedarpaw backed out of the nursery with Larchkit on her tail. "Can I take Larchkit outside?" Poppystem looked thoughtful. "Be back at sunhigh." Cedarpaw rushed out of the nursery. I hope sunhigh won't come early, she thought to herself.

Chapter Two
''Barkpaw opened his eyes to the dim moonlight and focused on the shadows before him. "Hello?" he called. "Who's there?" A voice answered, "Barkpaw, you must warn her!" The young apprentice's eyes grew larger. "Warn who?" he called out. "Please tell me!" The voice continued as two silhouettes clouded the full, round moon. "Beware of two dark cats who threaten to bring destruction to the Clans." ''A vision of Cedarpaw flashed over the moon. "''You must warn Cedarpaw!" The vision on the moon faded into black mist, and Barkpaw was flushed away into darkness. "Noooo!" he cried.''

Just then, Barkpaw woke up. "Oh no!" he yelped. "I need to find Cedarpaw and warn her before the Gathering begins!" Rising to his paws, he limped frantically toward the entrance until a voice behind him called. "Barkpaw?" It was Darkmist. "Where are you going?" Barkpaw turned around to face his mentor. The beautiful gray cat stared levelly at him, her dark green eyes even darker with worry. "Are you alright?" she asked.

Barkpaw nodded, feeling suddenly cold. "I-I just need to find Cedarpaw," he stammered. Darkmist looked confused. "Why?" she asked. "Is something wrong?" Barkpaw took a deep breath and began to explain what he had seen. "I had a dream just now," he began, "and I think it might have something to do with Cedarpaw." His mentor looked even more confused, maybe a little baffled. "Whatever gave you that idea?" she mewed. "Cedarpaw's all right. I saw her earlier." Barkpaw shook his head, beginning to get frantic. "StarClan has sent me a message! The voice of Petalstorm told me to warn Cedarpaw of two dark cats who threaten the Clans! I need to warn her immediately!" he yowled. "Please....before it's too late."

Darkmist nodded her approval and padded closer to Barkpaw. "Okay, Barkpaw. Will you help me find her?" she asked, her silky voice calm. Barkpaw nodded and stepped out of the medicine den just as Honeywish stepped in. "Hello, Honeywish," meowed Darkmist. "What can I do for you today?" ''Ugh! ''thought Barkpaw. How was he supposed to find Cedarpaw and warn her with all of these distractions? He had to think of something and think of it fast. "Uh...Darkmist?" he mewed, trying to sound as innocent as possible. "Yes, Barkpaw?" purred Darkmist, who was now checking Honeywish for fleas. "Those nasty things won't leave my pelt, I tell you!" Honeywish was saying. "If you could help me get rid of them..." Barkpaw straightened, puffing out his prickly, bushy chest. "I'm going to find Cedarpaw and warn her!" he cried. Spinning around, he rushed out of the den as fast as his weak legs could carry him.

Looking around the huge camp, Barkpaw scanned the surrounding cats for a familiar light-brown tabby pelt and a white tail-Cedarpaw's pelt and tail. However, he had no such luck. "Cedarpaw? Has anyone seen Cedarpaw?" he called, but nobody heard him except for the ever abundant elders, who shook their heads, confusion sparkling in their eyes. Barkpaw groaned and hurried to the apprentice den. Yes! There, tucked in her nest, was young Cedarpaw, grooming her fur.

"Cedarpaw!" called Barkpaw. "There's something I need to tell you!" Cedarpaw looked up, startled. "Can't it wait?" she meowed, slightly grumpily. "I need to get my rest before the Gathering!" Barkpaw padded in the den, oblivious to the stares he was getting from Redpaw, Littlepaw, and Eaglepaw. Just then, a familiar scent washed over his nose and he turned around to see Ashpaw, followed by Flamepaw and Shadowpaw.

"Well hello there, Barkfoot!" Ashpaw yowled, her mew dripping with fake delight. Barkpaw recoiled. "Don't call me Barkfoot," he growled. "Don't tell me what to do," Ashpaw shot back. Slinking into the den, she added, "Anyway, I'm not here for you. Cedarpaw, Horsestar wants to see you. She said for you to hurry." Turning around, Ashpaw left the den with her two sidekicks trailing behind her. Cedarpaw rose to her paws and stretched. "Well, I need to go see Horsestar. You can talk to me later, okay?" she purred, rubbing against Barkpaw. Barkpaw watched his friend bound away and felt a stab of fear rake his spine with its icy talons, digging into his heart. Something bad was about to happen...and he needed to warn Cedarpaw-and fast!

...........................................................................................................................................................................

Cedarpaw's breath was nearly sucked from her lungs as she scrambled toward Horsestar's den. Peering in, she called out into the shadows. "Horsestar?" Just then, Cedarpaw spotted the unique half-black-half-white face peering out at her with its blue eyes. "Come in, Cedarpaw," meowed the Clan leader as she settled down and tucked her tail over her paws. "We have much to discuss." Cedarpaw's breath caught in her throat. Was she in trouble? She couldn't be...could she? After all, she did nothing wrong. Just then, Horsestar's voice cut into her thoughts. "Cedarpaw," meowed Horsestar, "Blackbear tells me you did very well on your last assessment." Cedarpaw ducked her head and nodded. "Yes," she said quietly.

"He also tells me that you are always on task and ready for practice. Is this true as well?" questioned the tortoiseshell. Once again, Cedarpaw nodded, and so did Horsestar. "Very well, then. Cedarpaw, I am offering you a deal." Cedarpaw's eyes widened. "This will be your final assessment, and if you pass it you will be made a warrior afterwards," purred Horsestar. "What is it, Horsestar?" asked Cedarpaw. The leader continued. "I know this is odd, but I want to test it out. Cedarpaw, you are to go to StreamClan territory and deliver a message to Wrenstar. If you complete this task, tonight you will sit vigil as a warrior. Do you accept?" Cedarpaw could hardly believe her ears. "Yes!" she squealed. "I do!"

Horsestar nodded slowly. "Very well," she meowed. "Tell Wrenstar that his request has been fulfilled. Now go." Flicking her tail, she signaled for Cedarpaw to leave. Cedarpaw nodded and bolted away and across camp to the entrance. The soft grass whispered under her paws and the mountains cut the wind, transforming it into a million tiny breezes. After crossing the network of streams and dashing through the thick forest, she found herself at the StreamClan border, marked by a wide stream called the Blue Stream. A small path of stepping-stones allowed Cedarpaw to pass safely. Jumping from the last one, she entered StreamClan territory and began to pad warily down the path that she guessed that led to their camp.

Suddenly, she was disturbed by a rustling of bushes and soon smelled StreamClan's cat-scent. "Oh no!" she murmured, her pelt spiking. Just then, a thin but strong-looking gray-and-brown tom who Cedarpaw recalled as the StreamClan deputy, Swiftmoth, crashed through the bushes, his eyes furious slits. Other cats appeared from behind him, and they all moved to surround Cedarpaw while talking in hushed voices. "What should we do?" inquired a white she-cat with pale eyes. "I think we should kill her, Yelloweyes," hissed a gray tom with a long tail. "Keep your claws in, Rivertail," growled a black-and-gray she-cat. "She's only a stupid apprentice." "Trespasser!" growled the gray-and-brown tom, Swiftmoth. "What are you doing on our territory?" He pulled his lips back and showed Cedarpaw his fangs. Cedarpaw began to shiver. "I-I-I h-have a message for Wrenstar," she stuttered, beginning to shy away. Maybe this "assessment" wasn't as easy as she had thought.

"Well, you should have stayed in your own territory and waited for the Gathering! You're from HorseClan, aren't you?" Swiftmoth said, his hackles raised. When Cedarpaw nodded, a gray-and-black apprentice snarled from beside his mentor, who looked exactly like him. "HorseClan," he spat. "How could anyone forget their revolting stench?" Swiftmoth silenced him with a glare. "Enough, Nettlepaw," he meowed, his voice silky-smooth. "If HorseClan has a message for us, then let's hear it. Now tell me," he growled to Cedarpaw, "You can either tell us what this message is or be shredded into mouse-dust." He bared his teeth and Cedarpaw shrank away. "I'm sorry, but Horsestar told me that this message is only for Wrenstar."

Cedarpaw shrank under the towering form of Swiftmoth as he sniffed disdainfully. He opened his mouth to speak, but he was interrupted by Yelloweyes. "You must go," hissed the white cat. "Leave now, or we'll claw you to shreds!" Her lips were curled back in a menacing sneer that made Cedarpaw's heart beat faster. Stepping back, she whispered, "Please...don't hurt me. I'm only following orders." Swiftmoth glared, his whiskers quivering with disbelief. "Very well," he growled. "Follow us." Flicking his tail he led Cedarpaw and the patrol through thick woods and silver streams that crisscrossed through the territory. Finally, they arrived at the camp entrance. "Stay quiet," ordered Swiftmoth as he led the way into StreamClan's camp.

As they padded into StreamClan's camp, a dark orange-and-black tabby tom bounded over, a smaller white she-cat right behind him. "Swiftmoth, Wrenstar's expecting-Oh!" cried the tom, his eyes wide. "Shall I fetch Wrenstar? Are we being invaded?" Cedarpaw shook her head, frightened. "No! I-" She was cut off by Rivertail. "Shut up," growled the gray tom, his long tail flicking with annoyance. Cedarpaw tried to back away when Swiftmoth replied to the tiger-pelted tom. "It's fine, Tigertail. It's just a stupid apprentice looking for Wrenstar. She claims to have a message for him, but I think she's lying." Cedarpaw's anger flared. How dare he! All of a sudden, the smaller white she-cat spoke. "I'll take her to Wrenstar's den, if you want me to," she said, her musical voice quiet and calm.

"That's okay, Snowpaw," answered Rivertail, "but I believe Swiftmoth should escort her himself. Wouldn't want her backing out now." Swiftmoth pushed Cedarpaw from behind, and Cedarpaw fought back the urge to whip around and claw his face. Where where these cats' manners? Had they no respect for Horsestar and her Clan? She didn't have time to think more, for Swiftmoth was guiding her to the StreamClan leader's den. "Wrenstar," he growled, "there's someone here who wants to see you." The black-and-white leader materialized from the shadows of the cave. "Is there?" he asked, his voice smooth. "I smell HorseClan. Has Horsestar sent this cat to give me my message?" Cedarpaw's heart leaped. Wrenstar knew about the message! Now those other cats couldn't be hostile toward her without being harshly reprimanded! Pride flashed through her body.

"Well?" asked Wrenstar. "You may leave, Swiftmoth." The deputy nodded and backed out of the den. "Do you have something to tell me?" inquired the old tom. "Y-yes, Wrenstar. I bring a message from Horsestar. She told me to tell you that your request has been fulfilled." Wrenstar stared at her, then nodded slowly. "Good," he purred. "I'm glad to hear that. Thank you." Cedarpaw felt a wave of relief. Now that she had delivered the message, she would be a warrior! "You're welcome, Wrenstar," she meowed gratefully. "May I leave?" The StreamClan leader nodded, his amber eyes glowing. "Tigertail and Snowpaw will escort you to the border. Thank you again for the message." Cedarpaw nodded as Wrenstar called to Tigertail and Snowpaw. "Escort her to the border, if you please," he mewed briskly before stepping away. "Yes, Wrenstar," said Tigertail before turning away.

"Follow us," he meowed. This time, there was no trace of fear or hostility in his voice, and his eyes were calm. Cedarpaw nodded and followed the two StreamClan cats as they bounded away. Out of the blue, Snowpaw began to speak. "Hello, I'm Snowpaw," she mewed, "But I guess you knew that already." Her bushy tail flicked, and her dark blue eyes had a trace of curiosity and...was it kindness? "Hush," snapped Tigertail. "We're only here to bring her to the border." Snowpaw hung her head. "Let's whisper, then," she said softly. "What's your name?"

Cedarpaw felt taken aback. "My name is Cedarpaw," she replied. Snowpaw's eyes lit up with a welcoming glance. "Nice to meet you, Cedarpaw! I've always wanted to make friends with a HorseClan cat!" she squeaked. Cedarpaw shot her a confused glance. "Why?" she asked. "Do you not love your Clan?" At this, Snowpaw looked guilty, and Cedarpaw felt bad for making her feel this way. "Look, I'm sorry..." she began, but Snowpaw perked up. "I just like making friends from other Clans," she mewed. "That way, I can learn about them and how they live. I find that interesting." Cedarpaw was baffled. A future warrior should be loyal to her own Clan! But still, she was thankful for Snowpaw's sweet, friendly, and optimistic attitude. At least she was nice to Cedarpaw.

"We're here," meowed Tigertail as he stopped by the Blue Stream. "Bye, Cedarpaw!" squeaked Snowpaw before turning and bounding away, followed by her mentor. Cedarpaw padded back into her territory, excited about her warrior ceremony. This was so great! Why hadn't Horsestar asked her sooner? However, Cedarpaw couldn't shake a strange feeling away. Why did Horsestar ask an apprentice to go to a different Clan? Maybe it was so StreamClan wouldn't suspect an invasion. At least nothing went wrong. ''Good bye, Ashpaw! ''thought Cedarpaw with pride. ''Just you wait till my warrior ceremony. You won't make fun of me again...at least not until you're a warrior yourself. ''Finally, she arrived back at the camp. Wolfpeak was standing watch, his clumpy fur slightly ruffled. "You're back," he meowed upon seeing Cedarpaw. "Just in time! Horsestar was about to send a patrol to fetch you. She wants to see you now, before we leave for the Gathering." Cedarpaw nodded and hurried away from the gray warrior.

Horsestar was standing outside the medicine den with her head hidden inside. Despite the power and solemnity of the HorseClan leader, Cedarpaw couldn't help thinking about how much Horsestar looked like a tortoiseshell fox with its head in a burrow. "But-but-but!" cried a voice. "That stings!" Padding closer and peeking in, Cedarpaw saw tiny Larchkit dodging Barkpaw, who had a mouthful of herbs in his mouth. "Just hold still!" he hissed through gritted teeth. Darkmist was arranging the herb store, muttering to herself. Before Cedarpaw could address the leader, Horsestar turned around. "Ah, Cedarpaw," she puffed, suddenly seeming tired. "You're back. Did you deliver the message?" Cedarpaw nodded. "He even thanked me! And Snowpaw is really nice. She's an apprentice like me, and I think I could grow to like her." Horsestar looked puzzled.

Finally, her hackles smoothed. "Very well. I'll bet you think I'm crazy for sending you alone in an enemy Clan's territory. Don't you?" Cedarpaw shuddered, dropping her gaze. "I know you're not crazy, but why didn't Blackbear come with me?" Horsestar's blue eyes met Cedarpaw's levelly. "Because Wrenstar was expecting you. I sent you to avoid a battle. If I had sent a patrol, it would seem as though HorseClan was attacking StreamClan, so sending you was a way of avoiding suspicions and battles. Now do you see?" Cedarpaw nodded. This was what she had guessed! "So am I to be made a warrior?" The leader nodded. "Yes. You will sit vigil after the Gathering. I know this is complicated, but it is necessary. You'll see." With a flick of her bushy tail, she padded to her den.

Darkmist hurried over. "Did you have a safe journey?" she meowed. "Yes," replied Cedarpaw. "Good, that's great!" purred the medicine cat. Just then, Larchkit scurried out of the den. "Goodbye!" he squeaked, barreling over to his mother, Poppystem. The cream-and-black tabby nudged him back inside the nursery. However, during his escape, he had managed to knock over the comfrey leaves. "Oh dear!" cried Darkmist. She bent her neck to pick up the leaves and herbs scattered about. Barkpaw limped up. "There you are! You've been gone for so long," he mewed. "I'm sorry if Darkmist seems distracted, she's been acting strange all day. Anyways-" Cedarpaw broke in. "Can we talk, please? You said you wanted to tell me something." Barkpaw's eyes grew dark.

"I had a dream from StarClan," he said, his voice suddenly low. "Petalstorm told me to 'beware of two dark cats who threaten the Clans'. Afterward, I saw a vision of you. I think it means that you will be the one to encounter these cats." Cedarpaw's blood ran cold. "Are you sure it was me?" she asked, her voice quavering. "It could have been....Brindleshade?" Barkpaw shot her a confused look. "Eaglepaw's mentor? I don't think so. Nobody could mistake your eyes. Plus, your muzzle is white and hers is brown. It was definitely you that I saw." Backing away, Cedarpaw gulped. "I think I should leave now," she meowed. Was Barkpaw crazy? Just then, Darkmist came up with a frightened expression. "Barkpaw," she whispered. "I saw them."

Chapter Three
The trees raised their branches to the blackened sky, sheltering the moving cats from the worst of the howling wind. Moonlight filtered through the limbs and cut pale lines on the forest floor as the Clans made their ways to the Tallwillow. The moon rode high above the dusky clouds of night, and despite Cedarpaw's thick pelt, she still felt shivers now and then. Casting a glance at Barkpaw beside her, she whispered in his tufted ear, "Do you think Horsestar'll tell them about my warrior ceremony tonight?" Barkpaw looked at her with slight discomfort. "I think you're taking this too seriously. You're overthinking this upcoming ceremony. Why would she tell them just yet? It hasn't even happened; perhaps she'll tell them at the next Gathering." Cedarpaw bit back a growl. "Are you saying that a warrior ceremony isn't serious?" Barkpaw looked hurt, and Cedarpaw regretted it. "I'm so sorry," she muttered. "You're right. I am overthinking it." Barkpaw brushed his tail across her shoulder and Cedarpaw felt lucky to have such a forgiving friend, wiahing that she too could be more than her plain, defensive self. I have no personality, she thought with a twinge of sadness.

Just then, an alarmingly familiar scent washed her muzzle. "Ashpaw!" she cried. "It's you!" The gray-and-black apprentice bushed out her long fur and glared at Cedarpaw, her eyes bearing a red light of fury. "I can't believe you're going to be a warrior and not ''me!" ''she growled. "I'm way better!" Barkpaw backed away. "Why don't you go and see your mentor?" he spluttered. Shadowpaw hissed. "Shut up, Pricklepaw." Cedarpaw felt a surge of anger. Nobody could talk to Barkpaw like that! Without thinking, she slammed into Shadowpaw and bit down on the she-cat's shoulder. The dark gray apprentice yowled. Flamepaw crashed into Cedarpaw and pushed her off. "You'll be sorry, Cedarpaw," snarled Ashpaw. "We are going to tell Horsestar, and now you'll never be a warrior." Turning tail, she leaped over to Arrowpaw and Sunpaw, who were lagging behind and whispering excitedly.

Cedarpaw hung her head. "What have I done?" she wailed. "Now I'll get in trouble, and I'll stay an apprentice forever! I didn't think I would really attack them!" Barkpaw came closer and rubbed his muzzle in her coat. "I'm sure you'll be fine. I know them, and they won't tell on you after I'm finished with them." Cedarpaw looked at him. "What are you going to do?" she asked. "Well," he meowed casually, "I will tell them how tattling is weak and that Horsestar has no room for weaklings in her Clan." Cedarpaw spluttered. This was low for Barkpaw! "But that's not true," she protested. Barkpaw nodded. "I know. Horsestar is a great leader, but I believe that you are too special to me for me to sit on my haunches and do nothing." Cedarpaw rubbed her muzzle into his fur, then stopped short.

What was she doing? This was a ''medicine cat! ''His job was to be healing, not being distracted by Cedarpaw. Pulling away, she felt a stab of guilt. "I think I should go over there," she meowed. Just then, Barkpaw's eyes lit up. "Wait!" he called. "I forgot to tell you something important!" Barkpaw scurried over to her and looked into her eyes. "Darkmist has seen the dark cats that I told you about in the vision. She told me to watch you closely so you would be safe." Cedarpaw looked at him, trying to remain calm. She didn't want to be watched like a kit when she was to become a warrior that very night! Anger flared in her heart but she replied smoothly. "Very well," she meowed, "If you agree with Darkmist that it's the best thing." Barkpaw nodded. "You can still have your own life. Darkmist and I will just check on you to make sure you're alright and that you haven't been associating with cats from other Clans. You never know who these dark cats are."

"Oh, there's Darkmist!" he mewed. "Stay where we can see you. I'll go tell her that you agreed to our plan." Cedarpaw gritted her teeth. "If you must," she said. As soon as Barkpaw turned away, she silently padded around through the throng of walking cats...and nearly not stepped on by her mentor, Blackbear. "Cedarpaw?" meowed Blackbear, clearly surprised. "I thought you were with Barkpaw." Cedarpaw shook her head. "Just getting more air." Blackbear fixed her with a stern look. "Be careful and stay close," he warned before padding away.

''That went well. ''Cedarpaw flicked her gaze around, scanning the area. So far, so good. Cautiously, she padded farther away. ''This might be my last moment of freedom. I need to make it count! ''Looking over her shoulder, she made sure that no cats were following her. Excitement rose in her chest. What if she discovered a shortcut? Then she could impress all of the Clan leaders! All she wanted was the Clan leaders' approval. Maybe then they wouldn't doubt her and meet her with hostility. Moving deeper into the trees, she didn't notice a rock in her path. Tripping over it, she yowled with rage and fear. "Ambush!" she screeched as the rock gave way under her, sending her thumping onto the ground in a world of blackness.

...........................................................................................................................................................................

''Cedarpaw opened her eyes as the blackness faded into trees around her. "Where am I?" she asked groggily, trying to adjust her eyes to the dim moonlight. The Gathering! She suddenly remembered it. She couldn't miss it! Just then, a chilling voice came from behind her. "Aren't you going to stay for awhile?" Cedarpaw turned and saw a shadow a few tail-lengths behind her. "Are you?" the shadowy she-cat asked. Cedarpaw's throat closed up when she saw the cat clearly. "Come closer," she commanded, trying to be as brave as she could. The cat moved obediently toward her, and the foreign scent of pine hung around her. Cedarpaw gasped.''

''The she-cat had smooth, thick, glossy black fur. She had one yellow eye and one electric blue eye, both flickering with intelligence and something else. But her mouth. Oh, her mouth. When she yawned, Cedarpaw noticed a missing tooth with a jagged, red scar slicing up the gum above it. One long fang protruded from the top of her mouth, overlapping the bottom. The tooth was hooked on the end. "Well?" hissed the black cat when Cedarpaw backed away. "Aren't you going to tell me your name?" Cedarpaw took another step back. "Uh-Cedarpaw," she muttered. The glossy black she-cat came closer. "My name is Starlessriver." Cedarpaw gave a small nod just as the bushes rustled behind her. Another black cat-an amber-eyed tom-padded out. "This is my mate, Moonslash." Starlessriver flicked her long tail, indicating the tom. "Uh, nice to meet you," stuttered Cedarpaw. ''

Moonslash? Starlessriver? ''These cats had strange names, according to Cedarpaw. "What do you want with me?" she hissed, her pelt spiking. She just wanted to get back with her Clanmates! "Just let me leave!" Starlessriver made a hurt face. "Don't you want to be my friend?" she asked, her silky voice tainted with exaggerated pain. Cedarpaw flattened her ears. "I'll be your friend if you let me go," she pleaded, feeling helpless. How fast were these cats anyway? Maybe she could outrun them. True, she wasn't the fastest cat, not even close. But still, should she run? Should she face these strange cats? Feeling flustered and trapped, Cedarpaw yowled in distress. ''

''Starlessriver and Moonslash watched, twitching their ears. Finally, Starlessriver came forward. "You may go now," she whispered, "But be back here next moon, in this very place. If you do come, maybe your little crooked-legged friend won't get hurt." Cedarpaw's eyes snapped open and panic rose in her chest. "No!" she wailed."I'll come back! Just don't hurt him." Starlessriver nodded. "Good," she said. Black dots edged the forest, and Cedarpaw screeched as she was swirled into darkness and swept away.''

Chapter Four
"Cats of all Clans!" yowled Wrenstar from his branch of the Tallwillow. "Let the Gathering begin!" Cedarpaw looked up, her pelt spiking with anticipation and anxiety. There as a dull pain in her front paw; on the way back from the thick forest, she had stubbed it on a fallen tree limb. However, the throb did not deter her rising excitement. Her last Gathering as an apprentice! Scanning the crowd, she looked around for familiar cats. The others were quite easy to spot; the massive willow's sweeping tresses enabled a light green curtain, turning the cats vivid against its pale leaves. Cedarpaw finally spotted Snowpaw, the friendly StreamClan apprentice, wedged between Tigertail and Yelloweyes. "Snowpaw!" she called.

The white apprentice's ears pricked, and she looked straight at Cedarpaw, nodding her head in a friendly way. "Everyone quiet!" exclaimed Deadstar, the StoneClan leader, from his branch. "I will speak first, being the oldest Clan leader." His slashed, cloudy eye shone in the filtering moonlight. "StoneClan is prospering this moon. We have five new kits in the nursery, and the prey is running splendidly. Crumpledstar, will you speak now?"

Crumpledstar was the leader of TreeClan as well as Poppystem's father, making him Cedarpaw's grandfather. The cream-and-black tabby's crooked, jagged tail cascaded limply down the branch in which he was perched. His green eyes glimmered. "Thank you, Deadstar," he meowed, dipping his head. "TreeClan has been faring decently. Two of our apprentices have become warriors, and we have plenty of prey this season. StarClan has blessed us with good health as well." Wow, thought Cedarpaw. ''The other Clans are doing really well. I wonder what Horsestar will say about us? Will she tell them about me or will she save it for the next Gathering? ''

Cedarpaw suddenly felt a pang of annoyance at herself. She hated when she got selfish, but she was just so excited. The tortoiseshell leader twitched her tail on her branch. "HorseClan is wonderful this season. We too have plenty of prey, and new kits have been born. I too am expecting kits, and one of our apprentices is to become a warrior tonight." A few of the cats muttered, but they were silenced by others who were trying to listen. "Also," continued Horsestar, "my medicine cat has brought me a foreboding prophecy. 'Beware of two dark cats who threaten the Clans.' I do not know what it means, but I am hoping that everyone will avoid any suspicious cats." She scanned her sapphire gaze over the gathered cats, and Cedarpaw felt a shudder. "That means me," she muttered.

Wrenstar, the black-and-white StreamClan leader, dipped his head. His amber eyes glowed warmly. "May I speak now?" he asked. Horsestar nodded and tucked her tail over her paws. Wrenstar sat on his branch and looked around. Then he began. "StreamClan is...going through some hard times. Our warriors are doing what they can, but prey is little this season. We are unsure why, but some of my warriors have scented strange cat-scents in our territory. We believe that these...mysterious cats have been taking our prey and using it to feed themselves."

A gasp of shock rose up from the crowd. Then, Deadstar spoke, his gray tail lashing. "Are you sure about that, Wrenstar? After all, you could be lying. Everyone knows that your Clan is fat and lazy, and is quite gluttonous if you ask me." Wrenstar raised his hackles. "That is not true!" he responded. "My cats are brave and honest. We do not beg others for help! I am only telling the truth." Horsestar's ears twitched, and Crumpledstar stopped lapping at his paw.

''What is Deadstar doing? Is he trying to make StarClan send the darkness? ''thought Cedarpaw. Looking down, she noticed that her paws had begun to tremble. "It is no concern of mine whether or not someone steals your prey," spat Deadstar. Wrenstar hissed and unsheathed his claws as the sky began to turn black. "Stop this irrelevant chatter!" growled Horsestar, lashing her tail. Turning to Deadstar, she snarled, "You are causing unneeded trouble among us. If Wrenstar wants to speak, then let him. But it is not your right to claim that he is lying if you don't have all the information." Then she rounded on Wrenstar. "You should not pay attention to his accusations. He just wants to start a battle." Deadstar snarled and leaped down from his branch. "I say we leave now," he hissed. Flicking his tail haughtily, he left the Tallwillow followed by his Clan. Cedarpaw glared after him. The StoneClan leader was clearly up to something...but what?

"Hey, Cedarpaw!" Cedarpaw spun around to see glossy white fur. "Snowpaw!" she cried. Snowpaw nodded cheerfully. "Wow, some argument, huh?" she asked, her blue eyes shining mischievously. Cedarpaw nodded, her pelt rippling. "Yeah. StarClan even sent the darkness!" she looked up, surprised by how quickly the darkness had cleared. The full, round moon shone brightly shrouded only by bits of dark clouds.

"Uh-huh. Hey, guess what?" the white apprentice asked. She twitched her whiskers excitedly. Cedarpaw tilted her head to one side. "What?" she asked, feeling suspense rise in her chest. Snowpaw took a deep breath and blurted, "Since you're really nice to me, more than the apprentices in my own Clan, I think that we should go night-hunting together!"

Shocked, Cedarpaw recoiled. That was against the warrior code! "Are you sure?" she sputtered, anxiety already pricking her pelt. "Yeah," said Snowpaw. "I just thought it might be fun. Besides, how would anyone know? Anything we catch, we can give to our Clans! I just want to have some fun with you." Cedarpaw's heart warmed, but still she was nervous. "Okay," she managed to get out. Snowpaw's eyes shone. "Yay!" she squealed. "Meet me by the Blue Stream at climbing-moon tomorrow. Okay?"

Cedarpaw managed a small nod; her throat had closed tight with worry. What would happen if they got caught? Cedarpaw would certainly be punished, but what about Snowpaw? It was her idea, and if she got caught her punishment would be much worse. Cedarpaw shuddered, remembering the hostile StreamClan warriors with their menacing, unforgiving eyes. Please, StarClan, she prayed silently, ''help us not to get caught. ''She looked up, realizing that Snowpaw was still there. "Are you okay?" the white cat asked, twitching her bushy tail. Cedarpaw nodded. "Yeah," she replied.

Just then, she smelled Barkpaw approaching. "Barkpaw's coming," she hissed to Snowpaw. To Cedarpaw's relief, Snowpaw seemed to understand that Barkpaw would be curious about them. "Alright then," she said. "See you tomorrow night!" She sped off to join her own Clan as Barkpaw stopped beside Cedarpaw. "Who was that?" he asked, his fur pricklier than ever. "Oh, that's just Snowpaw," she mewed, trying to be nonchalant about her secret. She suddenly wished that Barkpaw would go away. "I was just talking to her." Barkpaw edged closer, his eyes bright with excitement. "About what?" he asked. Cedarpaw looked at him. He was the very picture of innocence with his flicking tail and wide eyes, but if he knew what Snowpaw and Cedarpaw were going to do tomorrow he would certainly tell Horsestar.

More coming soon!