the little children raise their open filthy palms for salvation [ p ]

**wolfie** · #1 March 28th, 2023, 12:11 AM

Inside the darkness, your salvation awaits - the half-hearted gale will chase you to the end. In between the sun and the moon will offer the warmth needed to soothe the chills.

The prophecy taunted Cowtuft with its mystery every day that ticked by. The voice of his mother rang in his head that they must've had a reason but stars, these days it felt difficult to uphold that same value. If they held the knowledge of the universe in their very paws, why must they keep it hidden? When it could save lives? Truly, Starclan could not be so cruel to have taken Twigkit so early. So many others, so very early.

Death awaited around the corner and Cowtuft found himself baring his teeth at it. Kitefly. Wrenfeather. Leaffall. Twigkit. Soon to be, Wingdapple. So many others if their salvation was not discovered. His head was clouded with haze, and his breathing was beginning to start to run ragged. Death would come for him, if he did not.

A part of himself felt betrayal, as selfish as it seemed, he felt the stars he worshipped had abandoned him.

The medicine cat had come to a conclusion, after talking to Wrenfeather. He would not let Windclan fall into despair. He rose to his paws, beginning to head towards the exit of his den until he heard the sounds of.. pawsteps? At this hour?
// @Alchemist Kitsune

***Alchemist Kitsune*** · #2 March 28th, 2023, 09:51 PM

Lightningpaw

Almond shaped eyes opened as Lightningpaw's head went up with a bolt, the suddenness of the motion causing a slight, momentary stiffness in her neck. Feeling a wetness in her eyes, the petite apprentice raised one dainty paw to her blue hues only to feel a small dampness running down her cheeks. Tears... no doubt from the fear in her dream. No. In her nightmare.

Legs stiff as the calico got up, still tense from her rude awakening, the oriental mix realized there would be no going back to sleep. Not tonight. Turning around to look at the base of her tail, she saw the silver, striped feather still clinging to her pelt, and a small, half smile escaped her. It seemed not even Featherfoot could save her from herself. Although she would be lying to herself if she didn't admit that snuggling up to her mother right about now sounded perfect. Her mother... The one that had...

Shaking herself free from the thoughts that still clung to her pelt like needle sharp claws tearing her down, Lightningpaw headed out of the apprentice's den, unable to stay in the dark for a second longer. Under the light of the moon, the inquisitive apprentice took a deep breath, centering herself as she'd taught herself to do moons ago. Her nightmare had been right, though. She had been right. She was doing... nothing to help, was she? Cats were dying. Featherfoot had been right. It didn't matter if she tried or not, it would all amount to the same in the end.

A grimace crossed her young features at the thought before a frown chased the oppressive thoughts away. Perhaps her nightmare double had been right, and there was nothing she could do, but... she would never just sit down and accept that. She would not sit idly by while others wasted away. Not again.

Resolute blue eyes turning towards the medicine cat's den, the lithe apprentice padded forward, eager to get to work. There would be no more sleep for her tonight, and it wasn't exactly as if the illness was kind enough to wait for morning until more trouble arouse, anyways. As far as she was concerned, she might as well make sure her patients were okay. And maybe even check on her friends while she was at it. Littlepaw was still sick, last she had seen, and she was still certain Cowtuft was getting nowhere near enough sleep himself. Preferring to ignore the hypocrisy of telling someone off for not sleeping enough while dodging a good night's rest herself, Lightningpaw reached the den's entrance, stopping only as she heard pawsteps just ahead as well.

Could there be someone like her? Someone who's rest had been disturbed just the same? Or was Cowtuft actively pacing and checking all patients despite how high the moon was up in the sky? Nose wrinkled with curiosity, the apprentice stepped in, shaking her head as she saw she had been correct. Cowtuft was definitely awake... and judging by the look upon his face, beset on... something. Eyes shining as her curiosity was piqued even further, the spotted molly waved her tail in a silent greeting as she approached the massive tom.

"I see you couldn't sleep either, huh? Need some late night help? Might as well make myself useful now that I am up, right?" Lightningpaw mewed, her voice a whisper as to not disturb those who were asleep, the words from her earlier dream still echoing in her head as she feared her friend turning her away for the night, deeming her no good to even bring moss and food to the ill for now.

-

@x ghostie [Cowtuft]
| Feel free to ignore the dream portion of the post. I hadn't written down one of her nightmares in a bit and felt like I had been ignoring them for too long. |

**wolfie** · #3 March 29th, 2023, 11:20 PM

✧ ೃ༄*ੈ✩ @Alchemist Kitsune
.. Well. Throw a tophat on him and call him a worm, goodness, he was not expecting to see a lithe apprentice appearing on his doorstop in the mist of the night. "Little lily! " Cowtuft squeaked out in surprise, jaw slightly agape. Lightningpaw was easier to recognize than most. While he was familiar with her, she was predominantly white and had quite the interesting ears. It was also the feather she carried that sung the truth. "Stars above, you gave me .. quite the fright.." He confessed with a tired laugh, licking his lips with a sense of nervousness. He kept his voice as hushed as possible.

He raised a brow at the first statement, he hadn't been specifically unaware of how Lightning appeared to have a struggle relating to sleep. (He had meant to long since ask her about it but gee, it was one of the things that slipped by him. ) "I.. do.. you commonly have issues.. with sleep..?" He prompted gently, "I can try accommodating ..you with a poppy seed.. every so often.. it does help with sleep.. " Cowtuft explained, as far as he was aware there was no genuine harm in it.

The medicine cat was interrupted by a sudden cough that shook his massive body entirely; he found himself gasping for breath afterwards. "Sorry.. sorry,," He managed to wheeze out, squeezing his eyes shut. One. Two. Three.

Blinking rapidly for a few while his vision adjusted, Cowtuft looked back to Lightningpaw, clearly his throat softly. Ah. He came to realize he had run into a small... well, unexpected situation. ... which may change his plans. Though, if anything, perhaps in a positive way.

"Uhm,,,,, maybe,,, if,,, youuu,, would be... interested.... " He piped up, eager to quickly move on the topic of .. it. The fact he was showing tell-tale symptoms. "iiinn,,, well, hm, hmm,,, this is,, a stumper to explain,,, ,,, also quite, quite a strange thing.. to explain.." Was he stalling?

"I am... going out to search... for a cure... you, you see - and this must be a secret, or.......... maybe it is, honestly,,, not,,, quite sure. Fallownose,, recieved,, a prophecy, see.. and .. I believe.. the cure.. may be residing in the Swooping Cliffs or.. the Tunnels... " He side-stepped to stand at Lightningpaw's side, in the entrance.

"Inside the darkness, your salvation awaits,, - the half-hearted gale will chase you to the end... In between the sun and the moon will offer the warmth needed to soothe the chills..." Cowtuft spoked sweetly as he restated the prophecy. A twinkle of sadness in his eyes that they had received it so late, but maybe, not late enough for Wrenfeather or Hawkkit or the countless others of clanmates that resided with him currently.

In the light of the moon, tiredness and sickness was as obvious as the sky being blue. Wear and tear, and the shivers that rolled through him. He swore when he entered into this role, he used to smile bigger. That there was more optimism that clung to him but these days, Cowtuft wished he could put his head to rest and not fear what tomorrow would hold.

He stepped out of his den, his tail swishing back and forth. He looked back to Lightningpaw and felt a little bit hope.

"Would.. you like to come with me..?"

***Alchemist Kitsune*** · #4 March 30th, 2023, 05:14 PM

Lightningpaw

Little lily! Stars above, you gave me... quite the fright...

At Cowtuft's words, Lightningpaw's heart skipped a beat. The nickname. It still rang in her ears. Her own voice had thrown in back at her. Spiteful. Mean-spirited. With every intention to hurt. The gentle giant's tone held none of that agression, however. Hatred and vitriol replaced by genuine surprise, tiredness, and the same ever lasting warmth that always seemed to radiate from him. Giving a small, cheeky smile in response, the calico's pink tongue poked out from out of her mouth, her expression conveying a clear, playful oops as she at least had the mind to dip her head in - perhaps less than earnest - apology.

Expression sobering up for a second at the mention of her sleeping problems - a momentary break in her usual, confident mask - the apprentice's large ears perked up. She had not meant for any slip up, if she were to be honest. The apprentice's concern had been real. With things the way they were, Cowtuft needed his sleep. She still remembered far too well how close her mind had been to leaving her during the worst of her nightmares. The misery that accompanied what felt like days without a wink of sleep. Yet even with those tired eyes of his, the medicine cat was still thinking of others first, a fact that softened the cheeky look despite her best attempts. It was hard to remain anything but caring around this patched ball of fur. Before she could even think about responding, however, the giant's body shook, a mighty, breathless cough escaping him, leaving him gasping for air even as his form recovered from its trembling.

No amount of moons of ensuring she could keep just the right look, just the right smirk to keep her mother from worrying had prepared her for something like this. The effect was slow. A curious head tilt as the lithe apprentice wondered for a moment if the medicine cat had choked on something - perhaps he had been enjoying a bit of a snack - before almond shaped eyes widened, becoming round as realization hit her. Cowtuft... Cowtuft was sick. But... but that wasn't right. No. Cowtuft couldn't get sick. He wouldn't! He... he was going to save the clan, he was! If... if he got sick, who was going to heal him?!

Lightningpaw's mind was already reeling as the medicine cat apologized - a fact that she quickly shook her head at, unable to comprehend why he was apologizing in the first place - wondering what to do. A storm of thoughts was quick to break through her mind, ideas ranging from herb combinations - of the admittedly limited ones she knew - all the way to dragging the medicine cats of the other clans here and forcing them to work together to cure him flashing through her mind before she could fully grasp at any. But first... first she had to make sure, right? She could be wrong. Maybe he wasn't sick! Maybe he just coughed. Maybe she was still shaken up from her nightmare and giving this too much thought. Yeah... Lightningpaw liked those maybes. She liked them a whole lot more than-

I am... going out to search... for a cure... you, you see -

Blue orbs met the patched tom's mismatched hues in an instant, the storm in her eyes clearing for just a moment as a ray of hope shone through. A... a cure? He'd found it? Oh thank the stars! He was going to be alright. Everyone was going to be alright! He just had to go find the cure. The secret cure. The one that could be on Swooping Cliffs. Or the WindClan Tunnels. Oh good. The two most dangerous places if she remembered correctly from Leechscar's tour.

A gulp escaping her, Lightningpaw suddenly felt her throat go dry. She understood it was a secret. She could keep a secret. As much as she liked to talk, gossiping wasn't her style. Yes, she loved the gaining of knowledge, but gossiping... it was half knowledge at best what you often gained from it. Half truths that you would later have to puzzle together by gaining bits and pieces from everyone until you had found your whole. She stayed away from that sort of thing. But... was this... wise? Cowtuft may or may not be sick - she wasn't ready to admit it despite the certainty of it, not to herself in any case - and this illness... it seemed to spread fast. Would the medicine cat be safe? Would her friend be safe? Going to such places by himself in the dead of night?

Tail giving a frustrated twitch at the sound of the prophetic message that had revealed WindClan's salvation, Lightningpaw couldn't help the twinge of fear that struck her heart. That was... not as clear as she would have hoped. Was it too much to ask for a star to simply send a beam of light to illuminate their goal? A nice, clear sign that undoubtedly told anyone who saw Yep, this is it, no doubts here, get yer cure and be on your way! Following the tom by instinct as he exited her den, she faltered, hesitant for once. He wasn't just any old warrior. He was the medicine cat. Would... would she be able to simply tell him that she had no intention of letting him leave alone? That she was going with him and that was that? Would she be kicked from WindClan for disobeying if he said no? Would she anger StarClan?

Would you be willing to forgive yourself if something happened to him just because you let the rules stop you from helping this time?

A determined frown settling on her features, dainty paws stepped forward as Lightningpaw set her jaw, looking at Cowtuft's hopeful gaze as he turned back to stare at her. It seemed she hadn't needed to worry. The medicine cat had asked her to come along! A relieved smile on her face - the attempt at any level of smugness lost in the earnest wave of emotions she was unable to hide - the young apprentice rushed to the medicine cat's side, quick as lighting.

"You never had to ask," Lightningpaw mewed reassuringly, nudging her head affectionately against the patched tom's head, ready to follow him wherever he needed to go to find this prophesized cure that would save the clan.

-

@x ghostie [Cowtuft]

**wolfie** · #5 April 1st, 2023, 02:06 AM

✧ ೃ༄*ੈ✩ @Alchemist Kitsune
Cowtuft giggled, smiling at her earnest to follow him. To be by his side, and without a doubt ready to follow. "Thank you.." He mewed quietly in response. When this was over, he would be giving her a gift to show his own gratitude.

Nonetheless, the medicine cat did not stall once Lightningpaw accepted his offer. Off into the night, he took the lead. A swiftness to his pawsteps, a panicked haste despite he could feel his body actively protesting against the strain of movement. Sickness would not wait for him to get better; Cowtuft had seen enough of his clanmates to know there would be no day he would feel better. Not any day better than this. There was a hazy layer across his mind and perhaps, it was evident to the apprentice following him. Stepping outside of the camp, gaze flickering about with a caution.

The Swooping Cliffs was most ideal to him as it.. had quite a bit more logic to it. Surely, the height it had put it in between the sun and the moon. It would offer light for the cure to grow in, unlike the tunnels. (There was no darkness, though, what could that mean?) He begun to trot in the direction but there was a sudden gust of wind. It pushed against Cowtuft with great effort, almost as if it was shoving him away. He almost found himself stumbling, taking a small step back. A frown showing across his lips. .. He did not ever want to say this out loud but, golly,.. bit rude. The coldness made him wince.

Still, still. He kept the prophecy in mind. He could not trust his own
instincts, no longer trusting them; and while his faith in Starclan had wavered, he still trusted them. He turned to look the right. "..T..tunnels, " Cowtuft spoke quietly, squeezing his eyes shut as a shiver passed down his body. This time he heads along the wind current. Letting it flow through his fur but not against him. The wind now stood with them. His heart skipped a beat with glee.

Despite his eagerness, every so often he would look over to Lightningpaw to ensure she was doing well. Worry still inside his heart that this was not the right choice. He was leading her on a blind journey. One could critique him but in this period with his unclear thoughts; Cowtuft still moved forward.

He dwelled in silence. Every step he took felt like his ancestors walked beside him; walked besides them. In sadness, there was beauty. There was no doubt about it that the silence was because he was fixated on their search. Still, there would be brief periods where he would come to a stop; the fatigue and weakness of his body showing through. Rather it be a coughing fit or the simple fact, Cowtuft couldn't catch his breath.

Soon, the wind would begin to grow stronger. It did not go against them; he still believed they were on track, whatever that appeared to mean but, it seemed to be excited. If it could. It did nothing to help the medicine cat because with its strength, he trembled like a leaf caught in a sharp breeze. Teeth starting to chatter but he was determined. Damned determined. So, he followed through.

Time seemed to not exist in the night.

It was only when the wind came to a complete halt, Cowtuft too would skid to a stop. Eyes widening with recognition of an opening. An opening to the tunnels. The wind that had once been forceful was now a gentle breeze. Gently coaxing them inside the darkness.

While tempting, he had a worry. "I - I have.. not been .. in the tunnels, " Cowtuft confessed softly, lifting his head to stare at Lightningpaw who likely stood beside him. "It is .. a complex system and.. from what I know.. there is not a strong light source... we will likely have to use.. touch to move our way through.. Focus on me, and I will focus on getting us through .. " He took in a sharp breath, "but in the case we are separated... follow the breeze. If there is no breeze.. please stay put.. I will find you.. I promise, " and while the gentle giant had no claims to make such a promise, he would never head home without Lightningpaw. That was not even an option.

With a small nod, he turned back to the entrance and dived into the darkness. His long tail brushed against the walls of the tunnels as he walked, slowly and carefully. Despite the fact they were underground, there was still a light breeze. Gently nudging him along, .. sometimes a bit harshly when he took a sudden turn.

Eventually, the tunnels would begin to become aligned with mushrooms along the walls. Clearly having been there for a long time, they had a faint glow that offered light. Cowtuft felt relief, the darkness was .. unnerving. Following along, he would enter into a small open area. He slowly stepped into it; eyes shining with interest.

In the middle was a large group of.. flowers. Of all things, there were flowers. They carried a soft red-orange gradient and all he could see was a sunset in its appearance. He took a step forward, seeming struck with awe. Beautiful, it was. Looking up, he could see roots that were imbedded. Upon further inspection, it appeared the roof was beginning to cave in.. Yet, not quite. It was more as if an animal had attempted to dig through - and they had, but only stopped when they realized the existing area. Despite how dark, it did allow sunlight to poke through. Only barely.

A smile spread across his lips."..Lightningpaw, do not, and I mean do not.. ever eat herbs you find at random.." Cowtuft spoke softly, giving the warning because goodness, hadn't he taught that in his herb class? Here he was, being a hypocrite.

Because he did not think twice as he padded up to one of the flowers and there was a little tilt, a deep breath, and looking back to Lightningpaw;..

he ate it whole. Well, the petals.

..... warmth flooded through his body as it went down his throat, a sweet yet tangy taste to it. he blinked and oh, tears sprung to his eyes.

they had found it. together.

***Alchemist Kitsune*** · #6 April 1st, 2023, 12:53 PM

Lightningpaw

Speed. Lightningpaw had never expected to see the clan's medicine cat move with such conviction or fluidity of motion, yet even with her own quick pace, the apprentice found herself rushing behind Cowtuft as she kept up with his determined steps. She kept her mind on the goal, focusing on which path the gentle giant chose. Swooping Cliffs or the tunnels. Honestly, neither sounded particularly promising? Still, if she had to pick between the two, it seemed Swooping Cliffs would be the place to look in. The lithe calico knew little about plants. She'd taken the mandatory herbal lesson as a kit, of course, and what Cowtuft had instructed them before when tending to the patients, but precious little else. That said, the oriental mix was... observant. Able to piece certain facts together.

Dens. They held no plants. There was never any undergrowth growing within the nursery. Never any plant that seemed to want to poke its head out, even in the less visited nooks and crannies of the place. Except near the entrance. Where the little bit of sunlight managed to reach. True, this blooms tended to more often than not be squashed. Trampled. Walked over by the constant flow of cats coming to and fro. But they tried to grow. And always with one thing seemingly in mind. The paltry sunlight that shone through.

The tunnels? Lightningpaw knew very little about them as well. But if she had to guess? They were no more plant friendly than a den. If they were to find herbs for a cure, a place like Swooping Cliffs simply made more sense. And it seemed Cowtuft agreed with her on this as well. Even without mentioning it - the journey thus far gone in silence, both medicine cat and apprentice too goal oriented to exchange words at the moment - the floppy eared tom was heading in the right direction. The one that led to the cliffs. Until...

A gale. A torrent. A buffeting breeze? Lightningpaw had no way of knowing what exactly was going on, but she was certain it wasn't just her feeling it. Cowtuft's reaction to this assault of wind was clear. A single word was spoken as the very air roared. Tunnels. Tunnels?! What did the tunnels have to do with this sudden wind? Did Cowtuft think that this wind was somehow connected to him having chosen the cliffs over the sunless tunnels of WindClan? That was ridiculous! This was nothing more than a coincidence, wasn't it? It had to be. Correlation was not causation! Surely Cowtuft - the smartest cat she knew - could understand that? With reluctance, the apprentice followed suit. Stepped in line with the patched tom, giving him a dubious look until...

What was this? This feeling? The punishing gale. Gone. Replaced by an... approving breeze? Was this... even possible? Could the wind approve of their actions? By all sense of logic, it made no sense. And yet as she followed through after the medicine cat, each step felt solid. Complete. Like it was taken not alone, not even with Cowtuft on his own, but with a party. A patrol. Ensuring the medicine cat reached his goal. Lightningpaw's eyes grew rounder by the moment, lost for words as she followed after, feeling the wind push her on, encouraging her to continue, to follow after Cowtuft and finish the mission. Because it was all there. It was all in the plan. The stars would turn wind. Guide Cowtuft, and he would save the clan.

In silence they reached the tunnels, Lightningpaw's large ears perking up at the sight. She had followed, allowed herself to be guided but... there was still that nagging feeling at the back of her mind. Why the tunnels? Even the entrance seemed void of life. What could possibly await for them there?

Musings were cut short as Cowtuft spoke, almond shaped hues landing on the medicine cat's heterochromatic orbs as instructions were given. Explanations on the dangers of the tunnels. Not in so much words, of course, but... the implication was there. Complex system? Not much light source? Guided by touch and breeze? A recipe for getting lost, it seemed. But what could they do? Stand here in the starlight? There was a chance - however slim - that the cure lay in there. And with Cowtuft as he was - the illness becoming more and more clear the longer they walked, the coughing bouts nearly stopping her heart with each wrecking hack - there was no way she was merely staying behind.

A serious nod was given in response. Now was not the time for jokes, for teasing, or for masks worn. Now was the time for action. A sentiment Lightningpaw could get behind. Besides. Cowtuft had promised. He wouldn't leave her behind. Perhaps the words had not been necessary. A cat so intent on saving others even while sick himself would never leave a clanmate behind. But for Lightningpaw's wounded sense of worth, it was like a soothing balm. A warmth spreading from nose to tail tip, gratefulness heartfelt as she followed after the tom, the young molly tried to help best she could.

Right. Left. Forward. Forward. Right.

The lithe calico had no idea how much use this would be. This odd little map she tried to remember in the mind. Every turn they took, ever stray tunnel they avoided, she took note of it. Entrances were not always obvious, however, and a the light became ever more dim, the abyssinian mix wondered if there was even a point to her observations.

Her reservations continued for a while, until there was... a light? A glow. A gasp escaped the spotted spark, the sight truly something to behold. Odd little... plants? They were plants, right? With no leaves? Strange oddities that lined the walls, gave a light all of their own. Were they guiding the way? Were these star touched blooms that simply morphed to this shape? So many questions. Her curiosity had never been so piqued, and yet onwards she went, following the medicine cat wherever he would go.

It did not take long. It took forever. No time at all. It was hard to tell. The winds of change seemed to have no grasp here, time standing still and moving far too fast all at once. Yet it happened. Their goal was reached. Or at least... something had. Lightningpaw thought nothing would awe her more than the star blossoms from before. The ones that turned tunnels into a starry sky. But here in this underground Silverpelt it stood. A glorious sunset to behold. The wiry framed apprentice had to take a paw to her eyes, rubbing them clean before turning back to face the bright hues. Flowers! By the stars, Lightningpaw had thought... the very sun had graced this patch of sky within the earth. But... but how?

Unknowingly following after the tom's own actions, the calico turned her attention to the roof. A crack upon the roots let light shine through, a beam cutting across the gloom to the setting sun before them now. A... beam. Before her mind could wrap itself more upon this singular thought, her friend's voice cut through, reminding her to never eat anything she did not know. The apprentice could not help herself. The deadpanned glare crossed her face and landed on the patched tom before she had a moment to react. Because who did he think she was? Of course she wasn't going to... wait, what was he doing? Why was Cowtuft-

"Have you lost your-" Lightningpaw squeaked, her voice high pitched in terror as the massive feline gulped down the flowers, her almond shaped eyes round in shock.

Mouth opening and closing for a few seconds, the mostly white furred molly stared in disbelief. Hadn't he just said to not eat strange things?! And yet there he stood. Gulping down on flowers that glowed like the most beautiful of sunsets, a goofy smile on his face, as a beam of light fell down from the heavens as if to say You did it, mates! Jolly good show. Now scarf these down and be on your way!

It started with a snort. A small one. Disbelief was starting to reel back. Relief soon taking its place. This had been it, hadn't it? The goal? The cure? They'd found it! He'd found it! And with the two of them, they would take so much they could heal the whole clan! No one else had to die! No one else had to suffer. A giggle escaped her at this thought. Glee was soon replacing relief. Serotonin coursing through her at the sight. Her laughter soon echoed through the tunnels, joy evident as it rang along this underground sky. Before she knew it, she had rushed towards Cowtuft's side, raising herself up on her hind legs as she attempted to wrap her forepaws around him in a loving embrace. Her friend was going to be alright. The clan was going to be alright. They had done! He had done it! Everything was going to be just fine. There was only one question left now, a gleam of pure happiness in her eyes as she spoke.

"So... how much you think we can carry back?"

@x ghostie [Percicow]

**wolfie** · #7 April 2nd, 2023, 02:50 AM

✧ ೃ༄*ੈ✩ @Alchemist Kitsune
Seeing Lightningpaw's shock at the fact he had went against his own word was more amusing than typical. .. He was very lucky the wounds on his arm had healed; .. he was a hypocrite when it came to his own health of all things.

If Cowtuft had tasted death, then this must be what life tasted like. He was sure of it. The tremble in his limbs begun to ease, and he felt as if he could breathe. Something he had missed so very so. He could still feel the sickness in his body, while the cure was a miracle; things took time. Still, a smile shone brightly on his face. The sound of Lightningpaw's laughter of joy was like music and Cowtuft joined in. His shoulders shaking with each burst and before he knew it, the apprentice was rushing forward to embrace him. There was a surprise squeaked that came from him, but he quickly returned the affection, reaching long forepaws to wrap it around the smaller.

He was simply so happy. After all these difficult days, they could return home with hope. Wrenfeather wouldn't have to leave her siblings behind; Fallownose would be safe with his son. Berryfrost wouldn't lose a friend. After all their suffering, he could finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. "We... should come up with a name for it.." Cowtuft prompted, eyes twinkling with wonder. "I believe.. it is a type of rose.. but it is too special to simply be called rose.. don't you think.. little lily..?" He hummed in thought, perhaps she had a few ideas of her own; he would gladly listen. The petals, naturally reminded him of a sunset with its fiery colors.

He paused at Lightningpaw's question, taking a swift look to the flowers. They weren't particularly large, and he let out a thoughtful hmm. "..Iii think five... each .. but we may be able to carry more... if we can find large leaves to create .. a wrap..It appears to be under a tree.. so perhaps, we can head up and see.." He explained, surely there were enough to give to every last patient of theirs a cure. (He prayed to the stars there was, he couldn't handle having to... No. He mustn't think like that. Not now.)

It brought relief to him but there was more pressing question that rested on Cowtuft's mind. Ever since he had come to the conclusion, he searched for a time to ask. Perhaps it had been there long before he knew it. There was still insecuirty that bit at him, the worry that he was being replaced but he was simply gleeful that it was an afterthought during this time.

Starclan had sent him a sign with the stars, showing him a lightning strike in the constellations. Then there was the storm that roared with fiery, with thunder that shook the Earth. He had watched how Lightningpaw treated Crowflutter with the utmost care; he had been the very witness to the genuine kindness in her heart. The interest she had for knowledge.

"Lightningpaw..?" he spoke softly, his tone taking a sudden sharp and serious turn. Still, the fondness in his expression never wavered.

"I have.. a question for you - a, a particularly important one and, goodness.. you do not have to answer now, of course not.. you may have all the time you need but .. before we gather these flowers.. and head home, I must ask.. " Cowtuft tilted his head slightly to the side, anticipation shining in his round hues. He had watched Lightningpaw's growth. He would be honored if he could be one to further it.

"How do you feel about becoming my apprentice..? Pursuing the path of a medicine cat..?"

***Alchemist Kitsune*** · #8 April 2nd, 2023, 10:55 PM

Lightningpaw

I was just like you when I was young.

Feeling massive paws wrap around her as she laughed, Lightningpaw felt as though if the weight that she'd been carrying in her heart had... lessened. It was still there. That guilt she felt. It would always be there, she felt. Her own penance. But today? Today she had helped. They had braved the winds, been guided by them, and come across a glowing, underground sunset that would cure them all. Everyone would be safe. No one else would die.

It would take some time. For the flowers to take effect. This she knew. In the days she'd been helping she'd noticed... Herbs were not food. Prey nourished instantly. Water sated thirst as soon as it washed down. Herbs, however, took time. She did not know why, or to what effect this happened. Some responded quicker to herbs. Others? A little longer. She wondered if it had to do with age or size. Much like the poppy seeds from her herb lesson which seemed to have been in such a distant past. How did that go? One for kits and apprentices, two for warriors and elders? She'd thought it odd back then, but understandable. Momma ate more than her in a single sitting, although she would admit to having more of an appetite than Gingerheart. Maybe she just liked snacking around too much?

You really need to stop letting your mind wander.

Her giggling almost beginning anew, a snort escaping her as she quickly calmed herself, the lithe calico shook herself in an attempt to still her giddiness. Yes, she was happier than she had felt in moons, but they weren't done. They needed to get the flowers back first. There would be time to celebrate later. She'd ask Leechscar if he would- Oh... Leechscar. A small grimace marred her features as she realized she... hadn't quite told him she was leaving. Eh... Was this a patrol? She was going to say yes. There, that took care of that.

Some strange line of events, huh?

The sound of her friend's voice catching her attention, Lightningpaw looked up at the massive tom, joy still gleaming from her blue orbs as she pondered his question. So there was no doubt about it, then. This was a new flower. A new... rose, was it? One that Cowtuft had never seen - or at the very least used - before. Turning from his heterochromatic gaze towards the roses that grew before them, the wiry framed oriental mix felt her grin spread wider upon her face, the mere sight of this sunset filling her with more hope than she ever thought possible before. A purr of amusement escaping her she nodded, responding in a playful tone, "Definitely too special to simply call rose. It would be like describing a sunset as the sun going away for the night. You might be getting the message across, but the lack of creativity is just offensive at that point."

A few more questions, a few more answers, and Lightningpaw found herself looking up at the roof once more. At the twigs and roots taking hold. Could they go up through there? Dig an opening and be on their way? It seemed like the most efficient way, truth be told. No risk of getting lost on their way back, and with an easier access point made if the roses were ever to be needed again. The thought made her stomach clench with unease, but it was a fact. The illness might return. It would be best to be safe rather than sorry.

The short furred molly's large ears twitched momentarily as her mind began its machinations. A storm of ideas going through, each wilder and more unlikely than the last. It would make sense to leave the roses mostly untouched, so perhaps they should consider the best place to dig their way out? Or had she completely misunderstood her friend's intentions? He was the older one, and the one who had led them here. If he had a better idea, she was all in. Before she could turn around to ask, however, her name escaped his lips. A seriousness in his voice she... had never truly heard before. Even when he'd asked her to come along, there was always a softness to his voice. This? This had a certainty to it that stopped all other thought and forced her attention solely on him.

Lightingpaw worried for a moment, that she had said or done something wrong, but a single glance at his affectionate expression was quick to wave that notion away. Nose wrinkled in curiosity, the small framed calico tilted her head questioningly to the side, her large ears perked up in the dim light. He had... a question? Him? For her? What knowledge could she possibly hold that he did not already own? As much information as she sought to learn, there was an obvious discrepancy in age here, between her and her friend. That and... he was the medicine cat. That alone, with the knowledge of the warriors and the stars? There was precious little she could imagine he did not know, and even less that she could offer him now.

How do you feel about becoming my apprentice..? Pursuing the path of a medicine cat..?

A frown of confusion crossed the calico apprentice as she blinked a few times, processing his question. For once, her mind had gone blank, uncertain at what she had just heard. Realization slowly began dawning upon her face, comprehension clear as her almond shaped orbs grew round in surprise. Her? The medicine cat apprentice? But... why? There was... there was nothing special about her. Yes, she enjoyed learning. Yes, she tried her best to take care of her clan but... it had always been for a reason. She had never been able to shake her away. Forget the fact that she'd walked away on a dying Featherfoot. Laughing. Taunting. Leaving her alone in her final hours to perish in misery. She wouldn't do that. Not again. Never again. There was... nothing noble about it. She just... couldn't handle that guilt again. That was the only reason... wasn't it?

I let the regret eat me up from the inside and never stopped to think I did get to say sorry and I was forgiven… and when I finally let go of it, the rats came.

Featherfoot's words to her, the ones she'd spoken to her the first time she'd ever walked in her dreams came roaring like a gale, refusing to let go of her mind until she'd made sense of it all. Regret... Guilt... Those had been her motivators for so long. Or at least... so she'd thought. But what if... what if it could be more? What if she could turn it into more? Change regret into hope. Guilt into happiness. Not just try to ensure that she let no one suffer the same fate as Featherfoot... but actively play a paw in it. Take care of her clan. Bring smiles to everyone's faces, like Cowtuft's when she'd taken care of Crowflutter? Because the truth was... she did care. She cared a lot. The sight of a sick cat brought more than just regret and guilt in her, she knew as much. She wanted to care for them. To be there for them. To tell them everything would be alright and mean it, because she had an answer for what ailed them at paw.

Eyes glinting in the low light with resolution and pride, Lightningpaw nodded. She did not know. Why Cowtuft had chosen her. Couldn't fathom it, really. She was still certain. There was nothing special about her. But... she would spend the rest of her life ensuring he did not regret that decision. Not once. She would break the cycle. And if the rats ever came for her? She would stand her ground. She would stare the stars in peace, because she had done her best in doing everyone proud. Tail twitching lightly, the feather attached to its base almost ethereal under the magical glow that surrounded them, Lightningpaw's whiskers twitched, her best attempt at a confident grin tarnished by an earnest, grateful smile. For not knowing the reason did not take away one very important fact. That she would forever be grateful to Cowtuft for this moment. For this chance to make peace. To do what she was meant to do, because never had she been more certain than she was now. This was it.

You’re a bright little she-kit with a promising future, and you shouldn’t let your mistakes destroy that part of you.

"You never had to ask."

-

@@x ghostie [Cowtuft]
| Credit to the quotes in different font to ~Fawn.Heart~'s Featherfoot.

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**wolfie** · #9 April 3rd, 2023, 10:25 PM

⍣ ೋ @Alchemist Kitsune
Cowtuft grinned brightly, nodding his head up and down ecstatically. If there was anything the tom loved, it was words. (Ironic with how they always seemed to like him, and as he grew older, they were beginning to flow easier but there would always still be the preference to simply speak non-verbally. ) Specifically, descriptors. There was a reason why he was always searching and attempting to create his own descriptors.

With a happy mrrp, "Then.. I suppose we already have a name for it.. do we not..?" Cowtuft thought of their leader who had always been there, "Sunset rose.. what a beautiful name.. fitting.." It made sense he realized. A sunset rested in between the sun and the moon; similar to twilight. Though, it was a bit too on the nose to simply call it Twilight rose. (He also was not sure if their leader would like the name! Goodness, he thinks he would cry if someone named a flower after him. Happily, but a bit embarrassed. )

The medicine cat followed Lightningpaw's gaze up to the roof of the ceiling and he could not quite figure what she was thinking. Flower for your thoughts? Still, he never inquired; if she had an idea, he figured she would purpose it.

Cowtuft could feel his own worries begin to spark as a frown splashed across the apprentice's face and he wondered if he had made a mistake in asking. While he had felt certain she was supposed to be his apprentice, never thinking of another outcome, he wouldn't fault her for wanting otherwise. A little bit sad, truly, but Cowtuft could never be so sad for someone staying true to their dreams.

He pressed his paws closer together, slightly tilting his head to the side. If she needed more time, that would be perfectly alright - it was only the silence that was very worrying! Heavens, maybe this was such a surprise Lightningpaw had fainted but was still upright.

Then, a glint appeared in the molly's eyes, and it eased all the worries the gentle giant had. He smiled wider, reflecting her own earnest smile at her.

"What a divine thing to hear... I am honored to have you as my apprentice then, little lily, " Cowtuft rose to his paws, leaning forward to touch his nose against hers. As same as he would've if this had happened when she first became an apprentice. A purr rose from his throat, pulling away. "I cannot wait for you to meet.. the other medicine cats.. they are simply dears... Ivysnake is a bit rough around the edges - you will have.. to not mind her, " He explained, ooh, he hoped Ivysnake wouldn't be .. uhm, .. passive aggressive. "I have.. so many things to teach you.." His paws tapped against the ground with excitement, "It will be.. wonderful..!!"

Turning to the flowers, the gentle giant looked up to the opening in the roof. He rose up onto his hindlegs, peering up to see if the tree he believed was there had any leaves to offer them. A frown flashed across his lips to see that the branches were void of any. Which trumped Cowtuft's idea to use leaves to carry more, and he staggered back down. It was far too high for even him with his large size to attempt to crawl through it, which meant for a long back home.

He wouldn't mind, him and Lightningpaw could talk along the way. Still, he padded to the entrance; the glowing mushrooms marked where it was but, he would prefer if they had a more efficient way of building a path. Hmm. HMMM. He had just the idea.

Turning to Lightningpaw, he gestured to the flowers. "Let us grab them.. and be on our way.." He chirped, grabbing five of the roses before beginning to walk into the tunnels; starting out on their adventure back home. However, every so often he would stop to dig large enough marks into the walls of the tunnels. Marking their way here; deep enough for a cat to feel against them.

***Alchemist Kitsune*** · #10 April 4th, 2023, 10:00 PM

Lightningpaw

Little lily. There it was again. The nickname Cowtuft had given her. That had caused her concern just earlier that day. True, it had been due to her own doubts, her own nightmares that she had yet to get a proper grip on. Spoken now, however, it spread a loving warmth through her tired limbs. Renewing her. Giving her a second wind. A giggle escaped her as she touched noses with Cowtuft, her whiskers twitching with laughter. They weren't done yet, but she was... so happy. Now all that remained was getting back to camp and saving the day! Not a single feline more would be lost to this plague.

In her elated mood she made note of what her new mentor told her. A warning of the other medicine cats? No. Just one. Ivysnake. Oh? She'd have to make sure to ask Cowtuft properly about this cat. Surely she couldn't be a bigger grump than Leechscar? The thought of her current warrior mentor halted all other thoughts for a moment, her heart beating in her chest as she realized... he would no longer be mentoring her, would he? Would... would that make him glad? To be rid of her? Truth was, as much as she loved to tease and annoy him, she'd grown rather fond of the grumpy tom. He was blunt. Did not coat things with fancy words to spare her feelings. It was odd. Jarring at times. And completely refreshing all at the same time. He was honest to a fault, and truthfully, she preferred the honesty to honey coated lies. Would he... would he be opposed then? To maybe taking her out every now and then? Surely once they finished this quest, when everything slowed down to a trickle once more... maybe she would have time to spend with friends and loved ones again? Not that he was a loved one. More like a love to annoy one. Yeah... that sounded about right.

Snorting at the thought, Lightningpaw's focus was once more on Cowtuft when the giant raised himself to his hindlegs - making her feel positively tiny in the process - only to notice that he had obviously had some of the same thoughts storm through his mind. Unfortunately, it seemed the roof of the tunnel was simply too far up even for him. Rabbit droppings... It seemed it would be the long way back. Gratefully she still had her crude directional map in mind. But... there had to be a better way to remember the path? Time would no doubt erase it from her memory, especially once she managed to catch a good night's sleep!

Following the floppy eared feline with her gaze, Lightingpaw nodded as he chirped for her to gather her flowers. It was time to go home. Hopefully they would figure out something. Otherwise it might be impossible to find their way back here. And somehow... something told her StarClan wouldn't be so kind as to force the gales themselves to guide them again. No... they would be on their own the next time they came to this place she feared.

Carefully, the lithe calico gathered up five blooms, wishing she could carry more, but knowing better than to be greedy. It would do little good if she lost half the roses on the way on account of being unable to carry them back with ease. Tail lashing in mild concern, the apprentice took after her new mentor, stopping momentarily as he... dug marks on the walls? The action confused her the first few times. Her sleep starved mind unable to comprehend the meaning behind his motions until... it clicked! Forget a map! He was leaving a trail! They would have no trouble finding this place again for certain!

-

@x ghostie [Cowtuft]
| If my math is right, Lightningpaw was meant to bring three of the blooms? I'll be leaving a response on the event thread next.

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