[CollapsingStars]

Originally Posted by Silver Fishie

A large, broad shouldered molly was sitting across the clearing as three cats entered the camp. Two she recognized instantly, Harestar, who was draped unconsciously across another cats back, and Iciclebreeze, the clans medicine cat. The long furred brown shecat remained seated, watching the entrance with hardened eyes of amber. Snow was gathering on her large frame, and her tail was curled tightly around her to preserve warmth. Her ears were still upright, but she couldn’t catch any of what they were saying.
It seemed like Cliffstar’s death was repeating. For some reason, Hickorypetal felt the same, dawning sadness at this moment that she had when she had caught sight of the brown Himalayan tom being carried into camp.
She wasn’t the tiniest bit envious of Harestar. Hickorypetal felt pity. Leader at only eighteen moons. Hickorypetal had been one of the cats to silently protest Harestar being named leader. How could one so young hold a position of power? She could count off maybe five older warriors who could do a better job.
That was what she had thought. Now, Hickorypetal could understand. Harestar was young, and would be able to lead Albaclan. But what would happen next?
It was like making a kit a warrior. They knew nothing of battle and bloodshed and loss. Fury and love and disappointment. Except, Harestar was strong and a good fighter with a careful mind.
But what about wisdom? Even Hickorypetal herself was young to be deputy; but she was over ten moons older then Harestar.
Wisdom came with time. Hickorypetal would also give her new leader time. Wisdom cannot be earned, it is collected. It does not come with the changing of ranks. It is gathered by past mistakes, and the mistakes of others.
Her eyes glazed, she thought of her mother. So bright and a wonderful huntress, with prowess better than any in the clan. If only she had stayed... Brightpetal would have been deputy, maybe Leader if she had stayed! She had been so capable and willing to help, it would be no surprise if she was selected to be in line for the roles ahead of her.
She had been such a likable, diligent warrior. No wonder Hickorypetal had wanted her suffix to be an echo of her mother.
Letting out a puff of hot air, she watched as her warm exhale turned to a foggy array of ice crystals floating like a mist in front of her muzzle.
It was in fact a mighty feat for a leader to make it this far. Sure, she was unconscious, but she was back at camp. Harestar had proven something today. Even Hickorypetal herself, the boastful and powerful fighter and determined hunter, doubted that she could make the journey alive in this weather.
Not to worry though, green-leaf was nearing them each and every day. Prey would prosper once more, and Hickorypetal could test the strength of Albaclan.
The sudden death by snakes had rattled her. Cliffstar had always been a distant figure, but strong and he seemed... invincible! How could him of all felines perish at the jaws of prey?
It was almost poetic. Cliffstar died, along with the deputy, Fallingfeather. It left two ranks open and ready for a new heiress. Harestar, Cliffstar’s direct offspring, had taken the challenge. Young and foolish, but she showed dignity and courage.
Hickorypetal arose, her large tufted feet leaving broad imprints in the snow.
It was time to stop wondering.
It was time to halt her thoughts about Harestar.
It was time to see if her new leader was alright, and could take on the wilderness.
Tucking her long, flowing tail inbetween her back legs, she briskly trotted over to the medicine den.
If she wasn’t wanted she would leave.
If not, she would stay to make sure Harestar was back up and running in the shortest amount of time.
Reaching the entrance, she paused, pinning her ears to her head. Poking her muzzle first, she entered the den. It was much warmer by comparison inside, What with the cats’ breath and body heat managing to add a thermal coating inside, and she relished the more delightful interior.
The scent of musky herbs and pungent poultices stand the inside of her nose, and she wrinkled her bridge in disgust.
“May I come in? If not, I’ll wait outside.” She asked, calling to the black figure which was Iciclebreeze.
@TiredSmolFox
@♤ Allora ♤

@♤ Allora ♤

Owl ' Frost moved to respond, "Go ahead, Icicle ' Breeze is currently tending to Hare ' Star at the moment though!" Icicle ' Breeze hadn't looked over to really see who was there, as she was still deciding on some things. Astral ' Drop was still trying to open Hare ' Star's mouth. Icicle ' Breeze just decided to stand up and go to collect more herbs, besides the feverfew she was holding. The tuxedo she moved to collect chamomile, juniper, and poppyseed.