CHAPTER THREE.

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          With each passing moment, the safety of their clan hung in the balance, and she knew that time was of the essence

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With each passing moment, the safety of their clan hung in the balance, and she knew that time was of the essence. As she glanced out into the clearing, Fumitorytail observed the playful antics of the younger cats, a bittersweet reminder of the innocence that still thrived within their midst. But beneath the facade of normalcy, she sensed the looming shadow of danger, a threat that lurked just beyond the borders of their territory. Gathering her resolve, Fumitorytail turned her attention back to Chervilstar, her sister and leader, the pillar of strength upon which their clan relied. She trotted up to the leader, who happened to also be her sister, and smiled. With a deep breath, she dipped her head respectfully, awaiting Chervilstar's response,
     "Ah, Fumitorytail," Chervilstar greeted her warmly, her voice tinged with curiosity. "What brings you to my den at this hour?" It was early dawn, she was just preparing herself for her dawn patrol. Summoning her courage, Fumitorytail began to recount her dream, the images vivid in her mind's eye as she described Corpsepaw's remarkable transformation. She spoke of the young apprentice's bravery in the face of adversity and her undeniable aptitude for healing, traits that seemed to mark her for a different path than that of a warrior. She spoke of the creatures that attacked the camp, the different sizes and smells... she shivered as she recounted it all,
     "But in the center of it all, there was Corpsepaw. Hemlock's daughter is meant to be... something more." She flicked her ears. Chervilstar listened intently, her brow furrowed in thought as she absorbed Fumitorytail's words. When she spoke, her voice held a note of concern tinged with determination,
     "Are you sure this is her calling? What is StarClan even calling for?" She asked and flicked the tip of her tail back and forth, "This isn't clear, did you miss anything?" She looked at Fumitorytail, "I don't mean to question you but I'm confused."
     "Rightfully so, I'm not sure. I know she fought with all of LionClan, but also healed with a simple touch of her paw. Thats unheard of, but who knows. Anything is possible. I can try and speak to StarClan at my next gathering?" Fumitorytail then sighed solemnly. "I believe Corpsepaw possesses a gift for healing that cannot be ignored. And in times of turmoil, we will need a skilled medicine cat to guide us through the darkness. Please, I know I sound unsure but, that's what I saw."
     Chervilstar considered Fumitorytail's words carefully, her expression thoughtful as she weighed the implications of their conversation. Finally, she nodded in agreement,
     "You may be right, Fumitory," Chervilstar conceded. "We will speak to Corpsepaw about this matter and see if she is willing to embrace this new path. And we must also inform Blackfoot and Widowspit of our decision, for their support will be crucial in this endeavor." However, Fumitorytail couldn't help but feel a pang of apprehension as she considered Widowspit's reaction to their plans. The she-cat had always been fiercely protective of her kits, and the idea of Corpsepaw taking on such a dangerous role would undoubtedly cause her great concern. Despite Widowspit's dismissive attitude, Fumitorytail remained steadfast in her conviction. She knew that Corpsepaw possessed a unique blend of skills and talents that made her well-suited for the role of a medicine cat. And while Widowspit's skepticism was understandable, Fumitorytail couldn't help but feel a pang of frustration at her refusal to entertain the possibility.

     As Chervilstar addressed Widowspit and Blackfoot, explaining the details of Fumitorytail's dream, Fumitorytail watched with a mixture of apprehension and hope. She knew that winning their support would be crucial in convincing Corpsepaw to embrace her destiny as a healer. Widowspit's initial reaction was one of disbelief and scorn, her sharp words cutting through the air like claws. But Chervilstar's reprimand served as a stark reminder of the importance of familial support and respect,
     "A medicine cat? Never thought of you as a jokester, Chervilstar. My daughter is no healer. She's built the same as me and Hemockbite, if it's a healer you want, look no further than Huntpaw. That minnow will do you well," Widowspit stated with a sharp hiss. Chervilstar flattened her ears and hissed,
     "He's your son. Have you no shame?" Widowspit glared,
     "I just know what my kits are capable of. Huntpaw hates the water. He is skinny and I've seen him with Bitternface. He likes shiny things and hunting. Corpsepaw? She's taken a liking to the river. Just yesterday she and Blackfoot were swim training. Not plant finding."
     "Why would we stop training Corpsepaw? She would make a valuable warrior, one that could fight on land and water. Why would we stop her training if there is the inevitable danger?" Blackfoot questioned, her concern evident in her voice. Fumitorytail nodded, acknowledging Blackfoot's valid concerns,
     "I know it's unconventional, but I believe that Corpsepaw has a special gift for healing. She can continue her battle training, but we should prepare her to become a medicine cat as well."
     "But what if she doesn't want to become a medicine cat? She may have her heart set on being a warrior," Blackfoot countered, her brow furrowing with worry. The last thing Blackfoot wanted was for Corpsepaw to feel like she was being forced into a position where she didn't wish to be. Fumitorytail understood Blackfoot's apprehension. She, too, wanted to ensure that Corpsepaw's wishes were respected. But she also knew that sometimes destiny had a way of guiding them towards paths they hadn't initially considered. Chervilstar nodded in agreement, drawing Blackfoot's attention back to the discussion at hand,
     "We will speak to Corpsepaw and discuss this matter with her. Ultimately, the decision will be hers to make. But we must ensure that she is aware of all her options and the responsibilities that come with each role. But we also need to make it clear that if she does become a medicine cat, it is not a demotion or a punishment. It is a position of great honor and responsibility," Chervilstar affirmed, her tone resolute as she addressed the gathered cats. She glanced pointedly at Widowspit, hoping to convey the importance of their discussion. Widowspit's expression remained skeptical, but she reluctantly acknowledged the validity of Chervilstar's words,
     "I can't see your point of view. I think it's the stupidest idea you've had yet. But, if Corpsepaw truly has a gift for healing, then it would be a waste not to develop it fully," she conceded begrudgingly, her gaze drifting towards her kits. Blackfoot nodded in agreement, her eyes reflecting a mixture of concern and determination,
     "I think we should bring this up with Corpsepaw and see what she thinks," she suggested, her voice steady and measured. Chervilstar smiled gratefully at their willingness to consider the matter, knowing that their support would be crucial in navigating this delicate situation,
     "Thank you for your input, Widowspit, and Blackfoot. I will speak to Corpsepaw myself and see how she feels about this," she said, her voice filled with determination. With their minds made up, the group dispersed to carry out their duties. Chervilstar felt a sense of hope rising within her, knowing that they were doing what was best for the clan and Corpsepaw's future.

.·:*¨༺ 🩸 ༻¨*:·.

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