Hawkstar stood, stretching luxuriously in the late afternoon sun. Streaks of light stained his dark pelt a rich umber color, warming his bones in the process. His left side was still somewhat damp from where Dawnpool had groomed him when they were sharing tongues, he bid her a good afternoon and trotted over toward Hareflight who had just popped out of the Medicine Cat den. She looked worried. Not at all how one might expect given she’d just seen an old friend.
“Hey Hareflight, got a minute?” He called lightly, jerking his head in the direction of the woods. When she assented, he led the way out into the sun-dappled forest. Spring had arrived in a riot of colors. Baby ferns unfurled tenderly, their hues of green at their most vibrant and saturated phase. Birdsong filled the air, underscored by the hum of insects and small prey leafing about in the undergrowth, all busily setting up shop in the wake of winter.
“It’s something, isn’t it.” Hawkstar sighed deeply, turning to address his companion.
“I wanted to have a quick word. It’s reached my ears that you and Juncostar had somewhat of a tiff a few days ago. I wanted to see if, well, if you’re doing okay.” His amber eyes shimmered with concern.
“I wanted to ask you first. Because I’m not about to let him get away with….well, you know. But if you’d prefer I didn’t…..I think something should be said, but you are the aggrieved party here, not me.”
Hawkstar twitched his ears, watching Hareflight with concern. Her nervous demeanor reminded him of his youngest, Coldpaw. The two would certainly get on well.
“It has not reached many ears, I assure you.” He smiled in what he hoped was a kind manner. “Juncostar and I are good friends. Else, I wouldn't feel comfortable calling him a furball when he’s being one.”
He sat down, sensing this would take some time.
“Hareflight, did he hurt you? I don’t just mean your skin. Did he hurt you?”