The Darkest Moons (Warrior Cats)

72. Blessings

     Every cat seemed to buzz with some sort of excitement. Much of the Clan bustled around Shadowclaw, who would go to the Moonpool for his nine lives. Meanwhile, Rainfall chattered in joyous whispers with Helen. 

     Echolight would have liked to ignore it all, but she had to be involved. It tired her to get out of her nest and go through the motions. But my Clan needs me. 

     “We’re running out of poppy seeds already,” Tawnykit chirped, and Echolight was drawn out of her stupor. Guilt crushed her. She had taken to eating many of them before trying to sleep, hoping to wash away bad dreams and anxieties. 

     “I’ll gather more,” she said. “And what are you doing in my stores anyways? You’re still a kit.” 

     Tawnykit blinked and looked as serious as any old warrior. “You’ve been really down lately, so I wanted to help. I thought I’d check the stores.” 

     Echolight sighed. “I appreciate it, I really do, but you’re not an apprentice yet. It’s not your responsibility.” And it may never be, the way Spiderkit blunders in. 

     “Are you sad about Palemist?” 

     A cold chill ran up Echolight’s spine at the kit’s words. “Yes.” 

     Tawnykit sat and looked at her paws. “Rosepetal keeps saying he had to leave, but I’m old enough to understand. It’s upsetting.” 

     “Do you know what really happened?” Echolight asked. 

     “He died saving my dad.” Tawnykit ran her paw along the ground. “I’m really sorry. I know you liked him a lot.” 

     Echolight turned her head away. “He was a good friend.” She almost jumped when Tawnykit sat beside her and leaned into her side. 

     “I’m here if you need it.” 

     “You’re so young,” Echolight murmured. “Don’t worry about me. Go play with your littermates.” 

     Tawnykit stayed right where she was, and Echolight savored the comfort the kit offered. When Tawnykit finally stood and scampered out of the den, a veil of loneliness fell over her, and Echolight shook her head. I should go after those poppy seeds. 

     Before she could get to her paws, Helen stepped inside, looking hopeful. “Is Fang awake?” 

     Echolight looked back over her shoulder and stared at the sleeping rogue, who shifted and grunted in her sleep, batting her paws every so often. “No.” 

     “Oh-“ Helen started to back out, and Echolight walked outside. Helen strolled alongside her. “I’ll take care of everyone while you and Shadowclaw are gone.” 

     I forgot! Echolight hesitated to go on. He’s going to the Moonpool tonight for his nine lives. 

     “Are you okay?” Asked Helen. Echolight nodded. 

     “I’m fine.” 

     “Do you need anything?”  

     “No.” Echolight began walking again, wishing the cat would leave her alone. I have enough to deal with without taking care of her evil kit. 

     The moon gleamed brightly in the cloudless sky, surrounded by countless stars. Echolight huffed as she pulled herself over a boulder. This isn’t supposed to be here. Stupid rain must have dislodged it since I was last here. She sat to rest and watched Shadowclaw as he clambered over the rock.