Mountain Springs [ Rosehawk + Fadingstar Hunting ]

[paedyn]

Dark-cream-and-white fur brushed the entrance to the RiverClan Leader's Den. Blue eyes glistened in the gloom as the she-cat stuck her head in, playfully brushing her tail tip across the black-and-ginger tom's nose.

"Come on, Fadingstar." Rosehawk purred. "And, before you say anything," The warrior added on quickly, sweeping on without giving Fadingstar the chance to speak. "I admit that I may not be battlefit, but I'm sure that I can catch a mouse or two."

The RiverClanner exited the den and was at the camp entrance / exit in a couple of swift bounds. Her eyes gleamed as she waited on her leader.

[ @occultation - sorry it took a moment. ]

[occultation]

( @paedyn )

Fadingstar was tidying up his den when Rosehawk entered. She almost immediately moved to brush her tail across his nose, a move that had him recoiling. What kind of gesture was that?

He wasn't an expert on social interaction by any means (although he certainly had improved since becoming leader), but he'd always been under the impression that brushing someone's nose was something only for cats who were close. Like, really close.

The warrior seemed to be inviting him to hunt. He had to admit, the idea of joining just her for a hunt after that interaction had him hesitant, and considering suggesting that Dusklion tag along as well.

The idea was strong in his mind, so much so that as he emerged from his den his eyes looked around for her, hoping to see her familiar pelt somewhere in the camp.

Alas, she was nowhere to be found. Probably out patrolling or training.

Biting back a sigh, Fadingstar padded out of camp, assuming Rosehawk was following. Once they were out of camp, he turned to face her, making sure to keep a tail-length between them. "Where do you want to go?" Since this excursion was her idea, he figured he'd let her pick.

[paedyn]

Rosehawk

Rosehawk’s eyes sparkled with amusement as she noticed Fadingstar’s reaction, though she kept her expression composed. She had meant the gesture as a playful greeting, not realizing it would catch him off guard. As they left the camp and Fadingstar turned to her with that tail-length of distance, she offered him a reassuring smile.

“I was thinking we could head toward the river,” she suggested, her tone light and easy. “There’s usually good prey there this time of day, and it’s a peaceful spot.” Rosehawk paused, considering him for a moment. “But if you have a different place in mind, I’m open to suggestions.”

She kept her pace steady, allowing Fadingstar to set the tone of their interaction. “I know leading the Clan keeps you busy, so I thought it might be nice for you to get away from the usual duties for a bit. We could use the time to relax and maybe catch something good for the fresh-kill pile.”

Rosehawk maintained a respectful distance, her demeanor warm but not overbearing. She was aware of Fadingstar’s reserved nature and wanted to ensure he felt comfortable, even as she gently nudged him out of the seriousness of his role, hoping to bring out a more relaxed side of him during their hunt. “I...I just don't want you to become so stressed out and run off like Larkwing did,” She murmured. Fadingstar was a good leader, and Rosehawk trusted him.

[ @occultation ]