sprouting stems

In the steep, flora-ridden hills of the Shadesteps, a young tom named Hazel seems to be unfit for any duties.

The sighter, Poppybloom thinks otherwise. She takes one good look at the little kit, and knows he has a long way ahead.

There is only one piece of advice she gives his mother: "Steer clear of the sprouting stems, or he will leap into the pits of darkness."

Hazel is unsure of what this means, but it all makes sense when Poppybloom takes him under her wing.