Thrush sniffed at the results of her latest accident. She and Cloud had been playing rough near the cliff and they'd fallen. Her father, Sea, had managed to catch Cloud, but Thrush had fallen and broken her leg and nose. She couldn't smell anymore, but her leg was almost fully healed and she was just about ready to become a trainee. She knew she would have to work hard to catch up with Cloud and Finch, but at least she wouldn't be alone. Toad was becoming a trainee that day as well, so they'd probably train together.
Toad also had his training postponed. He'd been born incredibly small and sickly, and had only recently gotten over a fever. He'd regained his strength and was now old enough to join Cloud and Finch in training. His sister, Adder, was training to become a Healer Cat, and Thrush wanted to be a fighter. Toad had told her that he wanted to be a hunter, but every hunter and fighter learned at least a bit of the other skill, just in case something ever happened and they had to hunt or defend themselves to survive.
Thrush puffed out her chest as Stag, leader of The Shadow Cats, climbed up onto the tall, spindly, tree in the center of the hollow. "Shadow Cats, gather by my call."
The cats began shuffling towards the center of the clearing and Thrush leaned forwards excitedly.
"Today, Toad and Thrush will begin their Training to learn how to contribute to not only The Shadow Cats, but all the cats on the island. They will learn to communicate with the Lost Spirits. Toad, Thrush, do you wish to add anything to this?"
Toad shook his head and Thrush thought about it. These would be her last words as a kitten! "I can't wait." She purred.
Stag's whiskers twitched. "Then Toad, you will be mentored by Leaf. Thrush, you will be mentored by Horizon. I understand that they are not much older than you, but you must still respect them."
Thrush nodded excitedly. Horizon and Leaf were Lion's daughters, and Lion was Thrush and Finch's aunt. Thrush puffed her chest out as Horizon padded over and took a sear, looking just as excited as Thrush felt.
"Well, I suppose you're my trainee?" Horizon meowed. "You seem very eager. Perhaps I'll give you your first lesson in fighting today."
Thrush's eyes widened. "Yes, please!"
Horizon nodded. "Follow me..."
