Mercuryrose
Shadowclan Deputy
The black and rose-gold Deputy was stalking through the pine forest, her dark green eyes narrowed slightly as she was listening to Aspenpaw bragging about his latest accomplishment. The dark gray tabby was indeed a star student, but Aspenpaw had a long way to go before becoming a very skilled warrior of Shadowclan. Aspenpaw had plenty of skill and charisma, but his morals were questionable sometimes. It had been a week since Thunderclan had marched into Shadowclan’s camp and demanded for Nightsong’s kits, it definitely left a lot of tension. There had been some tension between Juncostar and herself, but the two were working together despite their personal differences in order to keep Shadowclanat peace.
The deputy couldn’t help but roll her eyes, of course Hawkstar and Thunderclan had to make things complicated. If Opsreyshadow didn’t make a scene in front of the whole entire camp, everything could had been sorted out privately between all of them. Now Mercuryrose didn’t appreciate that Hawkstar and Ospreyshadow had pushed her to the side, rather wanting to speak with Juncostar only about the situation at hand. Thunderclan had seemed to cause her problems since the beginning of her existence since they were the origin of Twilightfoot. Looking back at Aspenpaw, she could tell that her apprentice had been slightly on edge with everything. Deciding that a small patrol would be appropriate near the Thunderclan border, Mercuryrose’s main concern was checking the Shadowclan-Thunderclan border since it had been only quiet with the other clan. Mercuryrose wanted little to no interaction with a Thunderclan patrol that could possibly be nearby.
It wasn’t until Mercurose had spotted a couple of figures at the corner of her eyes, the deputy releasing a string of curse words to herself as she watched the Thunderclan Deputy approaching with his own patrol, quietly observing the felines from the other side of the border. Looking back at the felines from her side of the patrol, she gave them a look of warning: Don’t start conflict with Thunderclan. Clearing her throat, Mercuryrose turned to look towards Briarstep with an unreadable expression, nodding her head in greeting “I hope prey is running well within Thunderclan.” Mercuryrose simply said, her feathery tail flicking back and forth. Her main concern was Aspenpaw, as her apprentice didn’t know how to shut his mouth at times. Ignoring the rest of the members of the Thunderclan patrol and focusing only on Briarstep, the others weren’t her concern. By simply ignoring their jeers and taunts, they wouldn’t be getting anything they wanted from her.
Looking towards the Shadowclan patrol, she beckoned her head towards the direction of the pine forest “Come, I would like to report things back to Juncostar so everyone can get to dinner on time.” Mercuryrose said, as she kept all of the patrols on strict schedules. Starting to take a couple of steps away from the Thunderclan patrol, it wasn’t until she froze in place as Aspenpaw rushed by her with his orange eyes glinting in anger, clearly enraged with seeing the Thunderclan patrol “You mouth breathers had no right to storm into Shadowclan and start demanding things! No one disrespects my father!” Aspenpaw said, looking towards the patrol before turning around and starting to kick some dirt at them with his hind paws, hitting a couple of cats on their chests with tiny pieces of rocks and dry mud. The dark gray tabby had no respect for Thunderclan at all, they were merely the low lives they proved to be from time to time.
“Aspenpaw! Stand down.” Mercuryrose snapped, turning to look at her apprentice with fury in her dark green eyes. However, it was too late as it seemed like Aspenpaw’s words and actions angered the patrol at the opposite side of the border.
grizzlytooth
thunderclan warrior
Grizz didn't even need to look at the shadowclan apprentice to know he didn't like him- the whiny, irritable tone of his voice was enough to give the Thunderclan tom reason enough to want to give the bratty tom a clip around the ears and teach him some manners. For now, he was content to stay alongside his clanmates and take his place as some of the muscle, but as Oceanstorm and Nightstorm began provoking each other, the huge tom let a loud growl rumble in his throat.
Exasperation clawed at him as he let out a snarled, "Oceanstor-!" But it was too late. Oceanstorm was already choosing to fight Nightstorm. Was this truly a battle worth fighting? As far as he was concerned, the kits had been raised in Shadowclan up until now. There was no need to fight over them- Thunderclan didn't need more mouths to feed so close to leaf-bare, and it wasn't as if Ospreyshadow wouldn't see his kits at gatherings...
There was a flash of reluctance on his face as the big tom shouldered his way into the midst of the fight, keeping a close eye on Hazelface and Applepaw in case they needed help. His priority was taking on the cats who were not being attacked by his clanmates. The big tom rushed Ravenwatcher, snarling and baring his teeth at him, ears flattening against his head as fury took over his expression.
"Turn tail and run, Shadowclan mange-pelts!" He snapped, "You know this is a battle you won't win!"
------
Cavernsight
Shadowclan Warrior
Cavernsight had been dawdling behind the patrol, the former mountain cat having gotten distracted finding a small flower blooming beneath a tree. He delicately picked it with his teeth, thinking it would make a great gift for Flutterlily... but his head jolted up when the sounds of fighting reached his ears. The lanky tom hurried off in long bounds in the direction of the yowls, and by the time he arrived he was already panting.
He had yet to see a true battle since he had come to stay with Shadowclan, and he was unnerved. To think that his clanmates would fight so pointlessly when they could just as easily agree to give up the kits, and avoid all this needless violence altogether. Uncertain of whether he should turn tail, or throw himself into the fray, Cavernsight's tail twitched nervously as he stood in the shade of a couple trees.
"Stop fighting!" He yowled, knowing it would likely get drowned out by the sounds of battle. The tom seemed to give up on his polite approach rather quickly, and ran his way to Mercuryrose's side.
Briarstep
Thunderclan Deputy
Briarstep's lips curled as he growled at Ravenwatcher. "I would respect Shadowclan if Ospreyshadow's kits weren't being kept from him. He's their only living parent, they deserve to have him, and Thunderclan, in their lives." His claws churned the ground, his emotions overpowering logic. Insults continued to fly between both sides, Oceanstorm, Hazelface, and Applepaw each rising to the challenge issued by the Shadowclan patrol. The situation was getting dicey, and Briarstep figured it was time to call for an end to the bickering, even if the patrol was accusing Thunderclan of devious plots.
A familiar hiss and the flail of claws caused the border to erupt into battle. "Oceanstorm!" Briarstep called, worry lacing his cry of desperation as the situation spiraled out of control. "Stop this, now!" Briarstep plead, dashing forward to sink his teeth into Nightstorm's scruff. He bit too hard, drawing blood as he struggled against the tom's greater size. He had to stop this, or it'd devolve into a catastrophe. His eyes met Mercuryrose's, desperation in his eyes. 'Please, please help me end this,' he thought, mouth full of fur.
H A Z E L F A C E
News of her expectancy had not yet spread through ThunderClan. She had kept that information strictly between herself, the father of her kits, his mentor, Peachblossom, and her own apprentice, Applepaw. But truly, it was stubbornness on her part. She wasn’t ready to give up her life as a warrior yet. Besides, she wasn’t showing and she would fulfill her duties as long as she would physically be able to- no one could stop her from that. So when Briarstep began gathering warriors for a patrol along the ShadowClan border, she volunteered without hesitation. With their currently tense relationship, she wanted to support her Clan and give her part to protect it.
It would just be their luck that she would be put to the test. When they showed up to the border to redo their markings, ShadowClan was there too. Her face immediately twisted into a scowl. The very sight of them upset her. Her cold blue gaze glinted in defiance at Ravenwatcher’s remark. “Just like ShadowClan to contradict themselves in the same breath,” She retorted sharply. “Did you not just say that your apprentice is your own business? Why not take your own advice? Applepaw is acting on behalf of ThunderClan, at least she has guts.”
But before she knew it, spitting snarky remarks at one another across the scentline was no longer the most of their worries. Fur flew as claws and teeth clashed between Oceanstorm and Nightstorm, sending both patrols exploding into a frenzy.
For a brief moment, Hazelface felt fear hit the pit of her stomach. She thought of the new life surfacing inside of her and her immediate will to protect them but she wasn’t granted the courtesy of retreat. A larger figure slammed into her side and knocked the air right out of her. The gray molly tumbled to the ground with a grunt and instinct took over, her hind-paws connecting with the tom’s gut as she kicked him hard, trying to knock him off of her and protect her unborn kits.
Oceanstorm cocked a brow as a younger tom– an apprentice, in all likelihood, threw some insults their way before turning tail and running.
“I’d keep an eye on your youths or we may do it for you.” Muttered Oceanstorm to Ravenwatcher.
“I see the bravery and nobility of ShadowClan cats is as alive as ever.” She remarked dryly, raking her gaze contemptuously over the lot of them. Anger was surging beneath her fur, her ghost itching to unsheathe its claws and cleave flesh from bone.
“Is that how you all feel? Gotta let a kit speak for you?” She shouted proactively, knowing full-well that Briarstep was cringing beside her. He’d thrown some of his own shade as well, although granted that shade amounted to a blade of grass in the grand scheme of things. It was Briarstep after all.
“He speaks true, but not for us.” A large black-and-silver tomcat shouldered his way to the front of the ShadowClan patrol. “ThunderClan would do well to heed this warning and back off. It’s suspicious enough to find you lot so close to our border. Thought you’d sneak into camp under cover of darkness and steal them away? I think it is not ShadowClan lacking in bravery here.” He chuckled in deep tones.
“My father would never do something so under-pawed. You take that back.” Growled Oceanstorm. It hit too close to home. Her knee-jerk reaction rose not out of indignation at the suggestion that her father would resort to such tactics, but the tiny sliver of doubt that whispered maybe he would.
“I shall make no apology for the truth. Hawkstar is nothing but a rogue standing where an honorable Warrior should. In all my years I’ve never seen a Leader demand ownership of another Clan’s kits! Never! If he had any decency he would bequeath Leadership to a real Warrior and fling himself from the gorge for good measure.”
“I’ll show YOU a true Warrior!” Snarled Oceanstorm in response, coiling her muscles and springing forward in leaps and bounds to close the distance between them. Nightstorm himself surged forward eagerly, his gaze shining excitedly for the clash that was to come. He had wanted to put his claws to their skin ever since that patrol had dared ask them to give up the kits.
There was a moment of quietness just before they collided. The forest stilled, a cloud passed over the half-moon overhead. And then the sounds of ripping fur and snarls filled the night air as the two dark-pelted Warriors became a tangle of teeth and claws. Nightstorm had the upper paw with his size, but Oceanstorm was far swifter and succeeded in dodging a few of his heavier blows as he attempted to pin her for a serious thrashing.
Ravenwatcher
Shadowclan Warrior
Periwinkle lavender hues glow faintly within the shadows of the pine forrest, the trees creaking as the chilling wind blows through Shadowclan territory. Leaf-bare was certainly almost here. Faint crunching could be heard with each careful step the warrior made, a thin layer of frost coating the pine needle floor. Tilting his chin slightly to the left, his gaze landing on Mercuryrose as she continues to lead them through the patrol. The obsidian oriental tom could sense the tension within the deputy, he could tell that the whole situation with Thunderclan was getting to her, rather she liked to admit it or not. Everyone within Shadowclan knew that Mercuryrose held a deep connection with a select few in thunderclan, but her undeniable loyalty to Shadowclan could not be questioned. In Ravenwatcher’s opinion it should make Thunderclan weary, if they want to start a war over kits who don’t even know who their mother or father was, then if Mercuryrose so wanted to, she could just as well return the favor, but the difference between her and Opreyshadow is that she knew just what a emotional toll it would eventually take on Papayapaw, Pepperpaw, and even Ravenpaw. How would this petty fight affect those kits? He believed the kits deserved to be able to make their own decisions when they were old enough to—yet Thunderclan did not seem patient enough to give those kits time.
Sighing softly to himself as he briefly glances at Aspenpaw as he follows closely behind his mentor. That young apprentice certainly had a lot to learn, the warrior had noticed the apprentice had a certain complex due to being the son of their leader. Mercuryrose certainly had her paws full. Tensing up as he hears Mercury’s muttered curses, it was then that the distinctive strong scent of Thunderclan as they got even closer to their border. Great just perfect timing for their patrols to mingle during stressful times. Picking up the pace to stand beside his deputy, his unique gaze flickering over Briarstep and a feisty little apprentice, along with a few other thunderclanners. Pursing his lips as he lets Mercuryrose do the talking, knowing it was best to get through this confrontation as smoothly as possible. There was no need to instigate the tensions between the two clans even more. Hawkstar and Ospreyshadow had shown their true colors when the barged into Shadowclan camp unannounced. It was a bold idiotic move, as in reality everything could have been solved in a civil manner.
Flicking his thin tail, hitting his deputy lightly on her flank as he subtly gestures for them all to keep moving. There was no point waiting around for something to happen when they needed to avoid it. Nodding in agreement as Mercury tries to keep her patrol moving, that is until Aspenpaw takes it upon himself to insult Thunderclan, kicking up dirt and insults. Sighing, closing his eyes as he wills himself to remain calm, how could Aspenpaw be so idiotic! Just like that a chain of events began. Tensions begin to rise between the patrols, Applepaw letting out her ferocity upon Aspenpaw. Though, Ravenwatcher could not help but feel like the Shadowclan apprentice deserved it. He tried to keep a level head as he took in each of the thunderclan’s stances, trying to gauge just how much of a threat they could become. Turning to look at Briarstep as the newly appointed deputy begins talking. Eyes narrowing in mild distain as the deputy tries to coyly insult Aspenpaw, only Shadowclan had the right to do so. Taking a small step forward, letting the dim light shine on his dark pelt as he regards Briarstep coolly. “I suggest to mind your own apprentice, instead of running your mouth about ours. He is ours to reprimand for his attitude. No matter how well placed it is” Raven retorts.
“Respect is a delicate matter, not simply given, It is earned. Something Thunderclan needs to remember and learn.” His words sharp, yet there was no aggression in his tone just the pure simple truth. Thunderclan had ruined all respect Shadowclan once held when they barged into their clan.
Applepaw
Applepaw was happy to be let out on patrols again, her mother pretty much confined her to the camp after the events with the lost dog on Thunderclans land, making sure to stay within earshot of Briarstep but bouncing around the different areas they were patrolling trying to get her fill in before she had to return to camp.
Mercuryrose! The molly bounded ahead of the Thunderclan patrol when the scent of the molly was picked up by the wind, perhaps she was coming to check on the siblings after the exciting gathering of herbs from Shadowclan. Her paws skidded to a halt when a smaller orange feline forced his way in front of Mercuryrose, spitting at the Thunderclan patrol. “Oh hell no you better back off you little ignorant pest” the hiss leaving her mouth before she could stop it. Her blue eyes narrowing in on Aspenpaw, a smirk creeping its way onto her muzzle as she recognized the name of the apprentice from her mothers recap of the event, “Or are you scared Thunderclan will take you away from daddy?” Cocking an eyebrow at the orange tom.
Ears swerved at the sound of Briarsteps voice, which remained characteristically calm but had a hint of sass at first before a growl overtook the toms tone, for a moment feeling proud of their soft spoken deputy. Following in line beside him she jabbed lightly at his side, “Looks like there is a real warrior under all this blubber.” Trying to keep the morale of the patrol up after her earlier outburst at Shadowclans apprentice. Appleplaw didn't like the idea of seeing Mercuryrose after such a tense time between Shadowclan and Thunderclan, what about her siblings who Mercuryrose birthed, would she try and take them away as Ospreyshadow demanded of Shadowclan. She respected the Shadowclan deputy through and through but there was no way in hell she would let them do that.
Casting a confident glance at Briarstep and then back at the patrol behind them, We can take em. Applepaw would like to avoid fighting but she knew they were ready for it. She’d hoped for a swift patrol so she could sneak off to the moors but seems like she’d have to take a raincheck on her evening jog.
Briarstep Thunderclan Deputy
Briarstep headed the patrol, guiding them towards the Shadowclan border. He and Hawkstar had doubled patrols along the border since the mishap with Ospreyshadow in Shadowclan camp.
He cast a cautious glance behind him, concerned that his clanmates would attempt to start trouble. He wasn't sure if he could keep his clanmates under control, if they decided to act reckless. His presence was less than commanding, and he struggled to mitigate his clanmate's taut emotions.
The whole clan was experiencing a complex mixture of feelings towards Shadowclan, and the half-clan kits they harbored. Briarstep believed letting the kits choose their clan would be wisest. But, others considered the idea abhorrent. Some claimed they'd be brainwashed by Shadowclan into staying. Others said forcing Ospreyshadow to miss out on their precious kithood was cruel. Either way, Briarstep didn't want a fight. But, the rising inter-clan tensions would likely result in a clash, sooner than later. He drew in a deep breath, bristling as he caught the fresh scent of Shadowclan upwind. "We've got company, approach with caution," he hissed. He dropped down, prowling forward ahead with the others. Soon, he saw Mercuryrose with her own patrol. Fortunately, they sticking to their own side of the border. "Er, greetings Mercuryrose," Briarstep mewed tensely. She seemed to be straining for a positive interaction. "I hope Shadowclan is well. We're just passing by on patrol," he spoke politely, trying to sooth the tension. A young Shadowclanner, who he did not recognize, interrupted with a cry of anger. "I see Shadowclan apprentices are as plucky a usual," he growled, annoyed but trying to make light of the insult. He glanced behind him, noticing the others weren't responding as mildly as himself. "Don't let some mouse-brained apprentice get under your skin, Thunderclan," he cautioned, hoping his words would find purchase amid their anger. "Some cats simply have no respect," he huffed, feeling some relief at getting his own passive-aggressive jab in.