Ravenwatcher |The Shadowed Knight of Shadowclan|
It has been moons since he met Grimrose, being tasked by Mercuryrose to show the new addition to Shadowclan the ways of a warrior. At first he took his orders as is—orders, an assignment and task to complete and then continue on with his day. His once understanding and compassionate self had certainly dimmed when his mate, Smokestar unexpectedly passed during the black plaque. He had distanced himself from everyone but his kits that were now warriors, just the thought made him feel old. Smiling slightly to himself as he waits patiently for Grimrose to arrive at their meeting spot. Under the bare pine tree that had been damaged moons ago during a lightning storm. It was one of the most distinctive landmarks with Shadowclan, it has become the two warriors meeting point before either going out hunting, training together, or patrols. Today, however was different as he was waiting on her to take her to their date that he had set up for the both of them.
Just the thought of what he had planned for them this evening causes the butterflies to begin fluttering anxiously in his stomach. He was thrilled when Grimrose had accepted, that she had said yes when he had asked her out on a date. He wanted the opportunity to court her, to woo her as he had grown to really care for the shy golden hearted molly, he loved her outlook on life. He loved her inner and outer beauty, something that had taken him moons to realize and had himself inwardly kicking himself on how dismissive he had been to her the first moon she was in Shadowclan. Shuffling from paw to paw to calm his nerves with movement, he had woken up early completed his warrior duties then went off on his own to get tonight set up as he wanted to have everything in order to have a perfect evening with Grimrose. A warm grin spreads across his features as he sees the tall slender black and grey form of Grimrose approaching him with a delicate smile of her own.
His periwinkle lavender eyes brightening as he nuzzles her in greeting, “Just in time as always” Ravenwatcher teases, as she always arrived perfectly on time for everything. “Let’s get going before it gets too dark” he adds, gesturing his sharp chin in the direction they needed to go. Throughout their stroll through the pine forest they made small talk with one another, simply enjoying the presence of eachother. Ravenwatcher slows his pace as they get closer and closer to their destination. Turning to the molly next to him as he stops, “Hold on” grinning as he pads swiftly over to a hollow log and pulling out weaved leaves to form a makeshift blind fold with bits of vine interwoven to hold it all together. Holding it loosely in his jaws as he turns back to his lovely date. “It’s a surprise” was his words jumbled with mouthful of leaves as he lightly shakes his head to draw attention to the blind fold.
After reassuring Grim and convincing her to place the blindfold securely around her face to obscure her already limited sight. “Lean against me…I’ll guide you” Raven softly says as he presses his tall lean coiled frame against her, his tail slowly curling around hers, his heart beating loudly in his chest, a feeling he did not know he would be feeling again after Smokestar. Guiding her carefully as they slip into a cave, one that has become popular within Shadowclan, earning the name Starlit Cave, for what lies within. The cool temperature caressing their bodies as the cavern enclosed around them. In the center, laid a large section of moss for them to lay comfortably upon with pink marigolds imbedded in the moss—one of Grimrose’s favorite flowers. Laying upon the bed of moss and flowers was a makeshift basket of sorts, made out of leaves, vines, and twigs. Not his best work but all he cared about was what it held. Within the basket was several pieces of moss soaked in fresh water for if they got parched as well as a large duck he had caught earlier that day.
Guiding his date towards the center, pausing at the edge of the moss bed before he gently whispers. “You can take off the blindfold now.” Smiling down at her at her surprised expression as the glow worms light up the cavern ceiling—giving the affect of starlight. “I hope this is to your liking” Ravenwatcher says with hesitance in his face, hoping he indeed planned their date to her expectations.
Ravenwatcher |The Shadowed Knight of Shadowclan|
Holding his breath in anticipation as he awaits for Grimrose’s response to his declaration. His periwinkle lavender hues remain intently on the black and gray beauty before him, studying for her reaction and wondering what she was thinking in that moment. He could definitely tell that she was shocked at his sudden confession and he could not help but worry that maybe he had spoken too soon, perhaps he should have waited a little longer before stating his love for her. Ravenwatcher had learned when losing Smokestar that life was certainly far too short for anyone, he did not want to waste another moment without expressing how he felt. As the oriental tom had wasted moons already from wallowing in self pity and depression that caused him to push many away, especially Grimrose. Sighing in relief as she smiles widely at him, her singular eye shining brightly in the ethereal glow of the cavern.
Smiling softly down at her and she moves even closer, her body heat embracing his figure in a secure blanket of warmth as she too says she loves him. “Thank Starclan…you had me worried there for a second” he jokes with a light laugh. Tilting his chin downwards as he allows her to guide his lips to hers in a sweet kiss before he deepens the kiss, wanting to express just how much he loved and wanted her. The butterflies within his stomach continuously fluttered even when they pulled apart for air, his chest heaving slightly as he rests his forehead against hers. Closing his eyes as he enjoys the blissful moment between them. Slowly opening his dazed eyes to look upon Grimrose, purring just as loudly as she pampers his face and muzzle with kisses.
His paper-thin ears twitching as she once more states that she loves him deeply. It surprised him that she would return such strong feelings towards him, but he was certainly thrilled nonetheless. Kissing her lightly on the lips, his tail flicking side to side in happiness. “I promise you will not regret it” Raven assures with a loving smile. It hadn’t even occurred to the older warrior that he never confided with her brother, hopefully a mistake he would not regret too horribly in the future. Nodding in agreement to her words, they will take their time, he was just glad to know she returned his affections and that she was now his and he was hers. Sensing she was nervous as well as tired when she suggested staying here for the night. Smiling warmly down at her, nuzzling his cheek against hers. “Of course my rose, let’s get some sleep” Helping her settle more comfortably before carefully settling behind her, wrapping his long lithe frame around hers protectively. Purring softly as he helps lull her to sleep under the makeshift stars. “Good night” he mutters before closing his eyes, letting sleep engulf him. Tonight had been a night to remember.
Grimrose
Shadowclan Warrior
Licking her lips to clean the juices away from the duck, Grimrose looked up to meet Ravenwatcher’s soft expression. The molly’s heart was beating faster than normal, butterflies fluttering in her stomach. The black and gray molly hadn’t felt this in a while, but these feelings felt so much stronger than before. A long time ago, she had felt as if her heart had vanished when Twilightstrike had died. Grimrose knew that she had needed time and patience, and her heart had eventually healed. While the large black tom had remained the hero of her story in her previous life, Ravenwatcher would forever remain as both her knight in shining armor and king of her life. Her mouth dropped open slightly in shock at the oriental tom’s confession, a huge smile escaping from her maw as Grimrose suddenly began scooting closer to Ravenwatcher.
Grimrose’s heart belonged to Ravenwatcher.
“I love you.” Grimrose said softly, bringing her paw towards his cheek and suddenly brought his face down until her lips brushed against Ravenwatcher’s. It felt like fireworks had gone off in that moment, the glow of the crystals highlighting both of them. The kiss between them was urgent, as if life depended on it. Breaking away from the kiss, Grimrose opened her singular violet eye to look at the tom and a chuckle escaped her. Ravenwatcher looked so dazed and lovestruck at that moment, she absolutely loved it. Moving forward until she began pressing kisses around his face, a loud purr escaped her “I love you so much that I cannot function properly without you.” Grimrose said, moving to finally kiss his muzzle. It was such a love confession from Ravenwatcher that was the most loving and caring thing that she had heard, it made her so overwhelmed with love.
“Yes, I will be courted to you.” Grimrose said softly, moving to place her paw on his own. It was such a surreal feeling, she couldn’t wait to tell her family and loved ones about such important news.. Although, she knew Murkywolf would have something to say ‘You’ve only been on one date and you decided to become his future mate?!’ Those would be the exact words Murkywolf would use. Moving until their chests were pressed together, Grimrose nuzzled her face into Ravenwatcher.
“When the time is right, you will become mine as I’ll be yours.” Grimrose whispered to him, stroking the fur on his chest. The flowers that were in their shared nest were leaving a wonderful scent, Ravenwatcher was always so thoughtful. A bashful look appeared on her face when Grimrose turned to look up at him before moving to kiss his lips once more “May we stay here tonight? So we may get to know each other more.” Grimrose proposed, anxious about his answer. It was a very serious question, sharing a nest right away. However, it was the perfect opportunity for the new couple to spend the night with each other privately. Of course, Grimrose knew that she would be moving into Ravenwatcher’s nest when returning to camp. It was much roomier and it was a proper tradition.
Ravenwatcher |The Shadowed Knight of Shadowclan|
“Sorry, didn’t mean to make you feel nervous” he apologizes, grinning as she warmly kisses his cheek before pulling him closer with her lithe tail. Chuckling as he soaks in her affection as he nuzzles back into her, “I love making you blush, though you make it so easy” he teases before giving her a loving kiss to her forehead, muttering against her fur “And you are the moon that lights my path.” He knew it sounded cheesy, but it was the best way he could describe how she made him feel. She helped him dig his way out of the hole of self-loathing to reality. Feeling accomplished as she gushes about how beautiful the cave was. He had wanted a secluded place for them to be able to be themselves and feel comfortable as he wanted to simply enjoy the presence of Grimrose.
“I am glad you love it here, I was a bit hesitant. Wasn’t sure if you would think its too dark and cold” He admits with a small shrug before taking another bite of the duck. Enjoying the tangy juices of the meat, feeling some of it drip down his lips. Just when he goes to wipe it away, he feels Grimrose hault his movements. Glancing up at her in mild surprise as she carefully wipes away a stray feather and blood. “Thank you…I am usually not such a messy eater” he sheepishly says.
He could sense that his words had put Grimrose on edge, as she was not sure just what exactly he wanted to ask her. Mentally cursing himself for being less tactful when trying to confess his feelings to the beautiful molly before him. Shifting slightly within the nest as he turns his tall frame to look fully upon the black and gray oriental. His periwinkle lavender eyes locking with her singular violet eye. It relaxed him to see her looking at him with such care and love. It was surreal feeling to be loved and to love someone again. Ravenwatcher had not expected to ever fall in love again not after losing his first mate, Smokestar. It had been a tragedy that has taken him a long while to recover from. Yet, he knew there would most likely always be a missing piece within his soul that now belonged to Smokestar within Starclan, he also knew that he could not hold onto that piece forever. Raven could feel within his heart and soul that Grimrose was patching the hole within him, making him feel complete.
“I just wanted to reveal to you, just how much you mean to me..” He begins, his ears flicking back to convey his nerves. “I know I have not been the easiest to get to know, I had pushed you and everyone away. But you never gave up on me, even when I had given up on myself” He chokes before clearing his throat. “You have brought so much warmth and love into my life that I thought I had lost…only my kits were keeping me grounded. You keep me alive——you are a breath of fresh air that I never want to lose. I would love for you to become permeant in my life. I want to court you properly—to show you how much I love you and want to be with you…” he finishes softly as he gazes lovingly at the breath-taking molly before him.
Grimrose
Shadowclan Warrior
The black and gray molly had like her breath was being taken away by Ravenwatcher, how he had been treating her like a treasure. Grimrose’s heart was beating fast, butterflies in her stomach as she was experiencing a feeling that she hadn’t felt in a long time since her previous partner. The cave was breathtaking, crystals surrounding the two felines as they faintly glowing in the darkness. Looking towards the black Oriental tom, a soft expression was on her face while her singular violet eye was shining in happiness at the taller tom. How did she get so lucky with him? Sometimes Grimrose felt as if it was all a dream, that Ravenwatcher was too good to be true. A gentle purr escaped her, and she leaned up slightly to rub her cheek against his own at his words and intertwined their tails together.
“Rav..” Grimrose said softly, causing the tom to look towards her and a smile escaped her lips before pressing a soft kiss on his cheek. Her tail moved towards his hip, bringing him closer to her when tightening her grip on him. The molly was extremely affectionate, and she knew that Ravenwatcher deserved such attention and affectionate.. He was so incredibly special to her “No matter what, I will always make sure that I’ll be the Sun on your cloudy days.. To always remain by your side.” Grimrose promised him, leaning her head on his shoulder. The two had an incredible bond, even before developing romantic feelings. It wasn’t an easy start when Ravenwatcher was closed off, but Grimrose knew that he needed someone to support him through one of his most difficult times in life. Everyone needed someone to support them, to help lift them up and look after them until the very end.
Listening to him repeat the fun fact that she had told him about marigold flowers, a shy smile appeared on her lips and Grimrose began blushing. “Rav, you’re making me blush!” The tall oriental molly giggled, knowing that he enjoyed causing such a reaction out of her. The cheeky wink that he had given had proved her point. When Ravenwatcher and Grimrose settled into the nest, the molly sniffed one of the flowers and rubbed her cheek against it but was careful to make sure the dark rose on her ear wouldn’t fall off. “It’s beautiful here.” Grimrose said, moving to leave kisses on his shoulder. Such an intimate and romantic moment between the two. It wasn't until he mentioned the duck that her ears perked up, he was so observant towards her.
“Thank you, Rav.” Grimrose said softly, moving to press her nose into his cheek before the two of them dug into their meal. The black and gray molly was self-conscious while eating, making sure that she didn’t do anything that looked unflattering. After all, a first date always leaves a good impression. Looking up at him, she could tell that Ravenwatcher was in deep thought about something. Suddenly feeling anxious, Grimrose smiled slightly before noticing a piece of feather at the side of his lip “Hold on,” she whispered before lifting her paw and gently brushing the feather away from his lip. A warm smile appeared on Grimrose’s face, and was going to take another bite of the duck until the black tom spoke up.
Lifting her head to look up at him, Grimrose could definitely tell that something was on Ravenwatcher’s mind. She couldn’t tell if it was good or bad, but the black and gray molly nodded. Was she nervous that Ravenwatcher had some bad news? Sure. However, the tall tom had given her a reassuring smile when looking down at her with a gentle expression. Moving her tail until it was woven together with his own, she placed a paw on his large one. “You can tell me anything Ravenwatcher, Whatever is on your mind.” She told him, a reassuring smile appeared on her lips now as she was awaiting his confession.
Ravenwatcher |The Shadowed Knight of Shadowclan|
Raven could not help the smile on his lips as Grimrose sprouts out interesting information about roses. Arching a brow as he could not help but ask, “What does black roses mean?” He wonders, a light laugh escaping him as she bashfully apologizes for her babbling. While she might have thought he found it annoying, Ravenwatcher actually thought it was adorable when she did that. Nuzzling her cheek as he smiles tenderly down at her, “No need to apologize for being you” he reassures. Though it was his turn to appear surprised and embarrassed as she calls him handsome. It certainly had been a while since he felt this way. “Well you did not keep me waiting long” Raven grins before lightly gesturing for her to follow him. “I will admit that I was surprised you agreed to go on this date with me” the tall dark tom admits with a sigh as his periwinkle lavender gaze remains staring ahead as he continues.
“I know I have not been the most easy feline to get along with. Especially when we first met” oh how it troubled him so for his past actions of appearing indifferent to her presence. The oriental tom had been so consumed in his grief for his previous mate that he simply forgot how to enjoy the simplicity of life, not until the fog had lifted from his once clouded gaze. He had Grimrose to thank for that, her persistence and gentle nature had drawn him from the darkest parts of his mind. Ears flicking back slightly as as her lips gently press against his cheek in silent gratitude for asking her out. Blinking down at her in surprise before a smile appears on his lips. Enjoying the comfortable silence between them, feeling her slender form press against his as they stroll through the pine forest. Nostrils flaring as he takes in a deep breath, enjoying the strong scent of pine needles in the air, it also helped calm his racing heart as he leads her to their destination.
Raven was not sure on how Grim would handle wearing a blindfold. He had been tempted to scratch that idea, to tell her to close her eye while he guides her if she showed any discomfort. The black oriental tom knew just how self conscious she really was with only having singular vision. Relaxing his stiff posture as the black and gray oriental molly agrees to where the blind fold for a short amount of time. Purring softly as she rubs her cheek against his shoulder, letting him know that she was indeed alright and ready to continue on. Ears swirling in her direction as he listens to her wholeheartedly admit that she loved being with him. Grinning to himself as he guides her into the cave. “Watch your step, it dips down a little here” he softly says, pressing against her as he mutters for where she could place her paws, he certainly did not want her to slip.
Once they were further enough away from the entrance does he whisper in her ear for her to remove the fold. Keeping his lavender gaze locked on Grimrose, taking in her expression of awe as she takes in the cavern. It made his heart flutter seeing her breathtaking smile, especially when her smile was directed towards him. Noticing her attention drift off towards the center of the cave, Ravenwatcher pads over to the moss nest with pink marigolds scattered about. “Though it is said that marigolds often represent the grief of a lost one, I have recently learned that marigolds also represent warmth and beauty” Raven quotes with a fond look as his gaze turns back to Grimrose. “I wonder who taught me that? Someone with a beautiful mind that’s certain” he compliments with a cheeky wink thrown her way. Feeling his cheeks heat up as she presses kisses upon his face, “I am so relieved you think so” he mutters honestly. It had taken the older tom some time to figure out the perfect date for her.
At the mention of the duck, he suddenly remembers the meal he caught earlier that day. “Oh! I remember you mentioning how fond you are of the taste of duck. I was happy that I managed to catch one” he explains. Settling down close to Grimrose, needing to be close to her. Watching her carefully grasp the duck, placing the meal between their paws before she begins to eat. He only took a bite after she had finished her first one, satisfied in seeing her enjoy and savor the taste. Humming in approval as he chews slowly, taking in the tangy flavor of the duck’s blood and meat. After a few moments of eating and enjoying each other’s company, Ravenwatcher could not help but disrupt the silence. “Grimrose…” he starts, feeling his nerves slowly creep back up. Turning his tall form to face her, giving her a reassuring smile, wanting to settle her nerves more than his.
“I have something I want to tell you.”
Grimrose
Shadowclan Warrior
A bright smile appeared on her face, a giggle escaping her mouth as Grimrose couldn’t help but become excited about her date with Ravenwatcher. The molly was very nervous, as she didn’t want her ramblings on random facts to ruin the mood nor her shyness to cause any awkward moments. It has been a couple of seasons since Grimrose had been on a date. The only cat that she had ever been romantically involved with, Twilightstrike, had passed away after Renly the Ripper had kidnapped and murdered him. It was a tragedy to lose her partner so suddenly, but she knew the massive Maine Coon would had been happy that she had continued to live her life and never looked back on the past. Stars, she couldn’t wait to see Ravenwatcher! The thought of the tall black tom had caused butterflies in her stomach, wanting nothing more to be in his presence and let him hold her into a loving embrace. How could one cat have such an effect on her like this?
Remembering the black rose that rested on the side of her right ear, it was a beautiful accessory for the molly on this special night. Grimrose was certainly glad that Mercuryrose, Jasmineflame and Dahliapetal had helped her get ready for her night out with Ravenwatcher. Dahlia was certainly the most romantic of the sisters, making sure that Grimrose was nearly groomed, smelling of flowers and even was the one who added the black rose as the final touch of the molly’s look. The silver and white Maine Coon had made it her mission to make sure that Ravenwatcher and Grimrose would end up courting each other by the end of the night, hence her hard work on Grimrose. Her violet eye lit up when seeing Ravenwatcher at their usual spot, their tree. He was such a dreamy tom, the most caring and considerate male that she ever seen. “Raven” Grimrose breathed, letting out a loud purr as the two of them met each other halfway.
Smiling widely as Ravenwatcher began nuzzling into her, Grimrose’s paw moved towards his own and rubbed her toe beans into his own. Looking up at him, she noticed that he was staring down at her with such a gentle expression. A blush appeared on her face, a shy smile appeared on Grimrose’s lips “I didn’t want to be late.. Not when I have a handsome tom waiting for me” Grimrose said, complimenting him. Noticing that he saw the black rose on the side of her head, and the molly moved until her paw was pressed against his chest and rubbing soothe circles into it “Even though Roses are the flower of Love, did you know there’s over 300 species of roses along with thousands of hybrids? ” She questioned, looking up at him. It wasn’t until she realized that she was giving one of her fun facts before chuckling “I’m so sorry, force of habit” Grimrose apologized before leaning up to brush her lips against his cheek, giving him a gentle kiss “Thank you for inviting me out tonight” She whispered softly into his ear, Grimrose pulling away slightly as she was looking at him in awe before nodding and following his lead.
The black and gray oriental molly was pressed against the taller oriental tom, enjoying the sights of the pine woods. Grimrose was curious where Ravenwatcher was taking her. It wasn’t until he stopped her, her eyebrow arched for a moment when suddenly he moved towards the hollowed log and watched him taking out a makeshift blindfold which caused her to tilt her head slightly at him “Oh?” She questioned, giving him a questioning look. Grimrose was always uncertain when not having her sight, as having one eye was certainly something that she was still getting used to. But the look on the handsome tom’s face and his good intentions caused her to nod and close her eye, letting Ravenwatcher move towards her and gently wrapped the blindfold around her eye. “Lead the way” Grimrose said, moving to press her cheek against his shoulder and rubbing against it gently, showing that she trusted him completely.
Feeling Ravenwatcher’s tail intertwining with her own, the molly released a soft purr “This means the world to me.. Being with you” Grimrose said with sincerity in her voice. It had certainly taken a while for their relationship to develop but it was certainly worth it. Feeling a soft cool breeze going through her fur, Grimrose could certainly tell that they were in a different scenery now. It wasn’t until they stopped for a moment, and the molly looked around for a moment before her date told her it was safe to unfold the blind. Moving to take off the blindfold, Grimrose’s mouth dropped slighly as she was looking around in awe. They were in the Starlit cave, the beautiful glowing stones and the glowing worms that were on the ceiling. It had such a breathtaking view. “Oh Raven” Grimrose said, feeling her breath being taken away with the sight.
Looking at the little moss nest in front of them, her facial expression softened at the sight of the pink marigolds that were scattered around it. Her favorite flowers. In the nest was a woven basket, holding a couple of moss balls and a large duck. Turning to look at him, Grimrose leaned up to press loving kisses against his face and muzzle. “My handsome Rav, this is absolutely perfect” She said, looking towards the duck and him “How did you know I love duck?” She questioned before letting Ravenwatcher lead the way until both of them climbed into the moss nest. Curling against the tom, looking at him with complete adoration. She could tell that he was very serious in his intentions of courting her, that he wanted a loving and meaningful relationship with her.
Gently taking the duck out of the basket, she admired Raven’s handy work on the woven basket. She was highly impressed with it. Placing the duck between them. Grimrose looked up at her beloved “Come on, let’s dig in” She said, before leaning down and taking a bite.