Archive of Our Own ^beta

Disclaimer: Warriors is owned by Erin Hunter/HarperCollins Publishers LLC.

A harsh wind blew against Tigerclaw as he carried a mewling kit. The air was cold and brisk, a sign of a harsh Leaf-bare fleeting as Newleaf approached.

The small ginger kit thrashed about, feeling the cold, only prompting the large tabby to grumble more. It felt like he'd been walking for days.

He had so many things on his mind that he hadn't even noticed when he'd finally arrived at camp. He slipped through the gorse tunnel. The kit was mewed so loudly that he was sure it'd wake everyone up.

Tigerclaw went stiff as a familiar face suddenly appeared.

"I knew I smelled someone leaving camp." Redtail was waiting for him. "It's a bit late for a hunt, don't you think?"

Tigerclaw turned to give him a look. Redtail's muzzle curled into a frown as he laid his eyes upon the cat in his mouth.

"Is that… a kit?" He moved closer, making Tigerclaw take a step back. "Where did you get that?"

Lashing his tail, Tigerclaw set the young kitten down at his paws. He looked toward the deputy, opening his mouth to speak for the first time.

"He is my kit."

Redtail reeled back. He almost wanted to scoff.

"Your what?" he exclaimed. Tigerclaw winced, as his cry was bound to attract attention. "Who is the mother?"

"It doesn't matter, Redtail. She is no longer with us."

"Oh, I'd say it does matter." Redtail grimaced as he looked down on the mewling kit. "He smells like Twolegplace."

At that, Tigerclaw growled. "How dare you! He is no kittypet; he is my son!"

The pair raised their ears when they suddenly heard a yowl. Tigerclaw narrowed his eyes as a figure could be seen leaping down the slopes of the Highrock before making their way towards them.

A blue-furred she-cat came up to them, lashing their tail unhappily. Bluestar swapped gazes with the two as more cats began to gather around the ThunderClan leader.

"Do I even want to know what's going on between you two?"

Redtail's eyes seemed to light up as Tigerclaw looked away with a scowl.

"Oh, Bluestar, you're not gonna believe this."

Dirt and leaves flew around as a pair of kits tumbled across the nursery floor.

A large kit with ginger fur stood up as he was pushed away. Sharpening his emerald green eyes, he launched towards the other dark-furred kit, the two of them growling playfully as they wrestled each other.

Robinwing sat nearby, the nursery queen looking upon them with amusement as a jet-black kit slept soundly by her side.

The ginger kit laughed as he pushed the other away. Leaning down, he put on a mischievous grin. Lashing his tail, he quickly jabbed the other kit before retreating.

"Tag, you're it!" He squealed, scrambling away.

The opposing kit smirked, quickly chasing after him. The ginger looked back with glee, not watching where he was going. He suddenly hit a wall of fur. With a grunt, the youngling was knocked onto his haunches.

An angry Willowpelt suddenly whipped around, clearly unamused to see him.

"Firekit, for StarClan's sake!" she snapped at him. "Watch it, will you?"

Firekit quickly shuffled back, ears pinned.

"S-sorry, sorry!" he apologized repeatedly. Willowpelt scoffed as she turned away, only making Firekit feel worse.

The pair briskly returned to Robinwing's side, their mother giving them a comforting smile.

"Oh, you two," she doted. "Firekit, Dustkit, please mind your surroundings more when you're playing, alright?"

The two kids nodded as Robinwing suddenly stood up. Firekit couldn't help but listen in on her conversation as he and Dustkit settled into the nest.

"Come now, Willowpelt; it was an honest mistake." He could hear Robinwing speaking in a hushed tone. "I know you're anxious about being in the nursery for the first time, but you never yell at my other kits like that. Why are you so impatient with Firekit?"

"Why? Because he shouldn't even be here in the first place. He's half-clan!" Willowpelt spat as quietly as she could. "He's already causing trouble. Imagine when he gets older."

"All kits can cause trouble. You're not being fair." Robinwing sounded disappointed.

"H-half clan?" Firekit repeated in a low voice, feeling troubled by what he heard. He looked up. "Momma, what's that?"

Robinwing looked back, shocked to see he'd been listening the whole time. She simply gave him a warm smile.

"Oh, sweet one, don't pay attention to us."

Firekit tried to ignore Robinwing and Willowpelt whenever they got into a disagreement.

It was always about him, it seemed. He never tried to ask what a "half-clan" was again. He didn't want to anger Willowpelt, or Robinwing for that matter.

Firekit mewled with dismay as he sat between Robinwing's paws. Her rough tongue stroked his back as she bathed him.

"Willowpelt had her kit yesterday. Would you like to see?"

Firekit looked up with surprise. He knew Willowpelt went to the medicine den a few days ago and hasn't been back since. Now it made sense - she was giving birth!

However, he was anxious, knowing Willowpelt didn't like him. Would she let him see her kit?

Robinwing smiled, seeing the worry on his face. "Your siblings are still visiting, so they'll be with you. I promise nothing bad will happen."

Firekit thought for a moment before smiling, giving her a nod. If his mother said it was okay, then it must be.

Robinwing led Firekit to the medicine den, the young tom nearly tripping with excitement as he followed. Firekit could smell his siblings from outside as they came to the lichen-covered entrance.

"Willow!" Robinwing called sweetly as they entered.

Firekit could see his siblings near Willowpelt, along with Spottedleaf nearby. If he strained his eyes, he could work out a small gray bundle of fur near Willowpelt's stomach.

Willowpelt perked her ears up, only to growl when she laid her eyes on Firekit.

"I thought I told you to keep him away, Robinwing," she said.

Robinwing shook her head as she led a hesitant Firekit forward. "He's harmless!"

Willowpelt just wrapped her tail further around her small kit. "He's clumsy. I don't want those long claws of his anywhere near Graykit."

Firekit ducked his head, looking down at his admittedly large claws. It was true that he hurt his siblings when they were playing sometimes. She was right to be worried. He knew this wasn't a good idea.

"What's going on here?"

Firekit's heart skipped a beat. His father loomed over the entrance as he turned around. Seeing him made his heart race. It's been days since he last saw the great warrior!

Tigerclaw didn't share his excitement, if his expression was anything to go off of.

"I saw Robinwing enter with my son. What did Firekit do this time?"

Robingwing rolled her eyes before going over to him, talking to him quietly as she led Tigerclaw back out of the den. Willowpelt just huffed, looking away as Spottedleaf cautiously approached the irritated queen with what looked like herbs.

Firekit looked dejected as he watched them leave. He shared a look with Dustkit and Ravenkit, who both shrugged.

"I-I'm sorry, Firekit, but I think you should stay away, too," Ravenkit said. "A-a least until Graykit is older. I just don't want you to get in trouble!"

"I agree," Dustkit mewed.

Firekit looked at them irritated. Lashing his tail, he simply gave them a huff before turning away.

He just wanted to see some kit. Why was it such a problem? Why was it always him that was the problem?

Firekit perked his ears toward the entrance, suddenly hearing the voices of his parents. Standing up, he quickly padded over to the lichen, not daring to step foot outside.

"Tigerclaw, I think it's about time you tell him."

He could barely pick up Robinwing talking in a serious voice.

"Oh, be quiet. I'm sick of this clan acting like there's something wrong with my kit," Tigerclaw growled with much greater volume. "I'll deal with it."

Firekit shuffled his paws nervously. What was Tigerclaw talking about? What was wrong with him? Was he in trouble?

He didn't mean to scare Willowpelt, and he never meant to hurt his littermates whenever he did, either. They were just so much smaller than him…

Firekit didn't understand.

It was a new day, and Firekit had a spring in his step as his father led him towards the gorse tunnel.

Tigerclaw had said he wanted to show him the forest - something he 'wasn't supposed to see yet'.

But Firekit was too excited to care about the looks they were getting. He'd been stuck looking out at the same old, boring backdrop of trees and bushes in ThunderClan's camp for ages. Finally, he could see what's outside!

Firekit nearly pushed his father over as he shoved under his legs, trying to escape the gorse tunnel as quickly as he could. When he finally burst outside, all the kit could do was gasp.

Sitting back in awe, Firekit looked out into the forest for the very first time. Countless trees stood before him, with rays of sunlight dancing through the branches and the sounds of chirping birds louder than they ever were in the camp.

"It's much bigger than you imagined, isn't it?"

Firekit blinked, whipping his head back at Tigerclaw, his face lit with excitement.

"Bigger?! It's huge!" He mewed. Tigerclaw nodded.

"I thought the same my first time out," he said. "I wanted nothing more than to go out right then and there, catch every piece of prey I could find, fight off any intruder I could see, and come back with stories to tell of my feats."

Firekit was looking away now, seemingly captivated by a butterfly nearby.

"Does it inspire the same in you?"

"Uh-huh!" Firekit replied, although clearly missing half of what he said. He finally batted the insect away before turning to his father, sparkles in his eyes. "Ooh, I can't wait! I'll go out there– and do all that cool stuff you said– and then make you and Robinwing proud– and then be the best warrior in the forest– and then I'll do even more cool stuff!"

"Good… That's good, Firekit," Tigerclaw said once his son was finished. "Because it is about time we had a little chat about me and Robinwing. That's why I really brought you over here. So we could be alone - just me and you."

And just like that, every bit of excitement was suddenly drained from Firekit's face.

"O-oh…"

His gaze lowered to the ground, memories of Willowpelt filling his head - things he would really rather not be thinking about right now.

"W-what about… you and Robinwing?"

"Robinwing is not your real mother."

His father said it with such crassness, Firekit almost thought he misheard. He felt a shiver up his spine, green eyes growing wide.

"...Huh?"

Tigerclaw just looked at him with a straight face, continuing.

"Your mother was a cat from outside of the clans."

Firekit felt his stomach tighten, watching his father sit calmly.

"Wh-What?" He stuttered, looking away in confusion. He was failing to understand. "But… So that's what that means… I'm half-clan?"

"Yes," Tigerclaw quickly replied, "but, in spite of that, you are certainly no kittypet, or whatever dribble they say. Your mother was a strong cat. She would've made a good warrior herself."

"My mother–" Firekit echoed, missing everything else that was said. He could hardly even form a line of thought. "Who… Who's my mother?"

"She didn't want you to know, and I don't believe we'll ever see her again," Tigerclaw replied. "I'm sorry if that upsets you, Firekit, but trust me, it is better this way. Robinwing has been a suitable surrogate, and your real mother would only cause us problems."

Firekit didn't say anything after that. Processing it all made him freeze up. He started to get light headed as he looked at the ground.

Robinwing… isn't my real mother. And I'll never get to see… my actual mother?

Tigerclaw didn't let the silence between them last long, giving him a grunt.

"Now, that may be the truth, but don't let this discourage you. The most important thing is that I'm your father, and that I am still here for you. Your bloodline through me contains many strong leaders. Why, you even look like my father, Pinestar."

Firekit slowly looked up at his father, who seemed to be trying his best to put on a face of comfort. All it did was make Firekit even more uneasy.

Tigerclaw huffed. "Well then, now that you know, it can be your motivation. You will become a warrior, and prove that it doesn't matter who your mother is or where she came from, right?"

Firekit felt only slightly lifted by his motivation, but the frown never left his face.

Tigerclaw simply looked away, flicking his tail.

"Hmph. We can continue this later. For now, just think about what you've learned today," he said, turning back towards the gorse. "Let us return. I'm sure Robinwing is worried."

"…Okay."

Firekit sat in the middle of the clearing, his paws tingling with nervousness. The entire clan surrounded him while his brothers sat at his side, their newly named mentors sitting just behind them. It didn't help that they were both his father and deputy either.

Bluestar looked down on him from the Highrock, making Firekit shiver. She named Dustpaw and Ravenpaw's mentors together. Why was he being singled out?

"And as for you, Firekit… from now on you will be known as Firepaw," she said aloud. "I will be your mentor."

Firepaw widened his eyes, hearing a few gasps behind him.

"What? Bluestar never takes apprentices…"

"What an honor!"

He could practically feel the weight of everyone's surprise as Bluestar leapt down to touch noses with him. As she pulled away, the leader looked down on her new apprentice. Firepaw could see her blue eyes glisten as she studied him.

"Congratulations," she said. "We will see just how much you take after your father."

Firepaw quickly nodded. "T-Thank you, Bluestar."

Speaking of his father, Firepaw looked back, hoping to find him next to his new apprentice, Ravenpaw. To his disappointment, however, he was nowhere to be seen as the rest of the clan approached, congratulating them.

"Congrats, you three!"

"It's about time. You earned it."

"Bluestar never takes on apprentices. You must be lucky!'

Firepaw shrunk back. He didn't know it was possible to be so overwhelmed.

"Congratulations, Firepaw!"

The apprentice suddenly perked his ears as Robinwing's voice sounded out above the rest. With a smile, he turned to her as she approached, quickly going and burying his head into her fur. The she-cat laughed in surprise, purring as she nuzzled him.

"You're one step closer to becoming a great warrior. I'm so proud of you, and I know Tigerclaw is as well."

Firepaw just purred in response, holding the embrace with his mother. His mother. Real mother or not, it didn't matter. Robinwing loved him, and he loved her. That was all that should matter.

Eventually, the two pulled away as Firepaw was now searching for his brothers. He quickly spotted the two, and ran over with excitement.

"Hey, congrats, you two!" He cheered. "We're finally apprentices! Isn't that great?"

Dustpaw gave him a confident nod, while Ravenpaw sighed, seemingly relieved to be reminded.

"You can say that again," he mewed. "Just sitting out there in front of everyone? The pressure was killing me."

Firepaw laughed. "So, what will your mentors be doing first? Do you think they'd let us train together?"

The other two looked at each other. Dustpaw narrowed his eyes, as if unsure how to respond.

"Sorry, Firepaw, but I have a feeling we'll be separated for a while. You know how… rambunctious we were as kits, and all. Redtail says those litters always get split up."

Firepaw lowered his tail in disappointment. "Oh."

Dustpaw then perked up, looking behind him. "Wait, I think I see him waving us over now too!" he said, before shrugging. "Whelp, that was fast. Good luck, Firepaw!"

And with that, Dustpaw passed by him, Ravenpaw sheepishly following behind. Firepaw watched as they indeed met with Redtail, slightly annoyed.

So the three of us together is too much trouble, but just those two are fine? He thought. He also couldn't help but notice Tigerclaw wasn't there to greet Ravenpaw either.

"Dustpaw is correct, you know."

Firekit jumped, turning quickly to see Bluestar padding up to him. She stopped by his side before continuing.

"You won't be training with them for a few days at least. For now, I'll be showing you around our territory. How does that sound?"

Firepaw blinked, suddenly putting on a smile. He remembered his first time out of camp and how it ended in disappointment, but things were different this time around. Now he would finally get to explore the forest!

With an eager nod, the two left the camp, and Firepaw got to venture into the wild for the first time in his life.

Firepaw followed Tigerclaw through the forest, as the evening sun barely peeked through the trees. It was so late, only a few birds could be heard chirping.

The young tom was just as nervous as he was tired. His father hadn't spoken to him much as of late, not since he got Ravenpaw as an apprentice. He had no idea what his father wanted with him, especially so late.

After what seemed like a long walk, Tigerclaw slowed down. He looked around before turning to Firepaw.

"Did Bluestar show you this area?"

Firepaw flinched as the silence between them was broken.

"Uhm… I don't think so."

"Good." Tigerclaw looked away, scanning the trees before continuing, "This is where I would take my former apprentice Darkstripe to train. It was a secret between us."

Firepaw looked at him strangely. Why did they need to keep this a secret? He supposed it was so nobody would disturb them, but Firepaw was still unnerved.

The young tom took a moment to study the area some more. It was dark - dark as the nursery would get around this time - and he could taste a hint of Thunderpath in the air.

"These trees look a little different," Firepaw observed aloud. "…Where are we, father?"

He could see Tigerclaw twitch his ears, almost like the question bothered him.

"We are near the Shadowclan border. But do not worry, they shouldn't be able to hear or scent us as long as we stay in this clearing," he explained. Turning back, he began to pace around him. "As you can see, Firepaw, this place has everything one needs to train. These dirt patches can be used for sparring, and if you ever wanted to hunt for yourself, some of these trees contain berries and nuts - perfect for squirrels and other prey."

Firepaw slowly nodded.

"Ah, I see… More training." He tried not to sigh. "But then, why not just go to the Sandy Hollow?"

Tigerclaw huffed.

"Because that is where everyone else goes," he replied. "Here, we can train unhindered. Very few know about this location as it is so far from our camp."

"...Okay, I think I understa–" Firepaw widened his eyes. "Wait… we?"

Tigerclaw grinned. "Hmph, you're a good listener. That will serve you well here," he said. "Yes, I am going to train you."

Firepaw blinked, not knowing whether to feel excited or worried.

"But… why?" Was all he could ask.

"Why?" Tigerclaw echoed, as if offended. "I've told you already what is at stake. When the clan looks at you, they expect to see a reflection of me, so that is exactly what you will give them. That is exactly what I will give them. A pillar of strength within this clan, and a shining model of what a great warrior should look like," he explained. "When you were born, all the clan wanted to hear about was your mother. You will prove that it doesn't matter who your mother is, only that you are MY son, and–"

"O-okay! Okay…" Firepaw interrupted, shrinking down as his father's voice grew louder. His paws were shaking slightly. "I understand. Trust me, I do, but… What about Bluestar?"

Tigerclaw seemed to calm down a bit.

"There is nothing wrong with extra training. Bluestar would understand. You should be honored to have this opportunity," he answered, raising his brow. "Besides, do you think a good father wouldn't want to ensure his son's success?"

Firepaw looked at him weird. Did he not trust Bluestar to train him?

"No, I suppose not," he replied before dipping his head. "Thank you, father."

Tigerclaw curled his lip.

"Ah, and that there is another thing," he growled. "I thought I'd told you this before. How many times must I say, my name is not father. It is Tigerclaw and you will refer to me as such. It sounds disrespectful not to use the warrior name one has earned, does it not?"

Firepaw felt his lungs tighten as Tigerclaw loomed over him. It was true, he did tell him that before.

"S-sorry, Tigerclaw," he answered quickly.

Although it'd hurt his feelings the first time Tigerclaw told him that, it was still an order, and he'd just failed to follow it. Firepaw didn't want to disappoint him.

Tigerclaw kept his eyes narrowed. "Now, all of our talking has likely scared away half of the prey in the forest, but for your first task I'll be expecting you to bring home a piece of prey tonight. Help you get to know this area a bit more. Do you understand?"

Firepaw looked up in surprise, his concern quickly turning to excitement. Not even Bluestar had given an assignment like that yet. Tigerclaw must've been confident in him if he thought he could hunt alone!

"Understood!" Firepaw replied eagerly, excited at the chance to please his father. "Bluestar let me practice some techniques yesterday. I can use those!"

Tigerclaw simply nodded as his son scurried off.

That night, Firepaw caught nothing but a mouse.

Surprised was he, when he learned rather quickly just how bad he was at hunting. Tigerclaw was less than thrilled, to say the least…

Firepaw struggled to stand up. His legs were numb. It was hard to focus. Hard to breathe. Any moment, it felt like he would collapse.

"Didn't you hear me? Again!"

With a sharp exhale, Firepaw lifted himself up.

"Yes, Tigerclaw!"

It was the next evening - same place near the Shadowclan border. Firepaw couldn't tell how long they'd been out here. It felt like forever. And yet, all they've done is practice a simple tackle. Not even Bluestar made him practice so much.

The apprentice lunged at his father, only to be batted away with ease. Hissing, Firepaw stepped back, growling with frustration.

"Oh, come on! We've been practicing the same thing for hours. What am I doing wrong?"

"Everything," Tigerclaw stated. "Since you refuse to catch the simplest morsel of prey, you won't leave until you perfect the simplest of attacks. True talent is when one makes something look like it takes none, and you've yet to prove you have any."

"Ugh… Yes, you're right. I know." Firepaw heaved a sigh. The apprentice crouched into position again, knowing his father would just order him to anyway. He could almost see a look of amusement on Tigerclaw's face, like it was entertaining seeing him exhausted.

"Now, we continue, until you get this one simple thing right," he said, crouching down. "I know you'll make me proud, son."

Firepaw didn't say anything, focusing instead. He was starting to wonder what that really meant.

Training sessions seemed to go by in a blur, the days of monotonous drills all seemingly merging together.

Firepaw stood confident in the Sandy Hollow, as he readied himself to pounce at Bluestar. The other apprentices sat nearby, his brothers and a few others, with their mentors behind them. Firepaw could almost feel the burning gaze of Tigerclaw behind him.

As soon as she gave a signal, it was Firepaw who lunged first, quickly gaining the advantage. Bluestar could hardly react before Firepaw took her down, his larger size making it all the easier.

As he stepped off, she looked at him impressed. "Well done, Firepaw. I can see training is coming along quite nicely."

Firepaw dipped his head. "Thank you Bluestar."

He turned his head, seeing the apprentices were surprised. Tigerclaw said nothing, just giving him a nod. Firepaw smiled.

It wasn't much, but steadily, he was improving.

"Well well, Firepaw, your first real patrol without Tigerclaw! How does it feel?"

Firepaw jumped, whirling his head around at the sound of a voice. He had been so focused on the sounds of the forest, he didn't realize Robinwing had walked up to his side, giving him a knowing look as she did.

They were out on the morning patrol, one of the many Bluestar made him go on. Tigerclaw was unable to come, like he always did before. Something about Ravenpaw needing extra training.

Firepaw immediately felt ashamed that he only now realized his own mother had come along.

"It's fine, I guess," he answered. The apprentice looked away, seeing a few other patrol members eyeing them strangely.

Bluestar scoffed from in front of them. "He'd much rather be training. He's just like Tigerclaw, in that regard."

Firepaw seemed disheartened, even if his mentor didn't mean any harm. Robinwing rolled her eyes.

"Oh, don't worry. You'll grow to be a fine, handsome warrior, I'm sure of it!"

She bumped her head against his neck, as he now stood slightly taller than her. Firepaw felt embarrassed, seeing as Bluestar's ears were still craned behind her head.

As Firepaw progressed more in his training, he realized just how much he hated attention. Nevertheless, he didn't have the heart to push his mother away.

"Thank you, Robinwing," he said, purring lightly.

His mother's smile seemed to falter a little. With a sigh, she looked away.

"Listen, I can tell Tigerclaw has been pushing you," she said in a low voice. "You know he's just concerned for your success and well-being, like all parents are."

Hmph. Well, he has a weird way of showing it. Firepaw thought.

He didn't understand. Robinwing never showed her concern by making him train with her. No other parent did, for that matter. Tigerclaw seemed obsessed, if Firepaw was being honest.

Robinwing bumped his shoulder, sensing his mood wouldn't be swayed.

"Hey, how about we share a mouse when we get back?" She asked, putting on a smile. "I haven't seen you much. I'd like to hear all about your training."

Firepaw perked his head up, surprised. Nobody ever offered to share a meal with him. He couldn't help but smile, nuzzling his mother.

"Yeah, I think I'd like that."

The moment wouldn't last long, however, as the scent of fear suddenly hit his nose. Firepaw inhaled sharply, hearing a screech from ahead.

"BADGER!"

Firepaw widened his eyes, seeing Bluestar with her hackles raised, staring down at the black and white creature. The badger gave a nasty snarl, facing the patrol with its sharp yellow teeth and thick paws that could kill a cat with one swing.

Robinwing quickly stepped in front of Firepaw, blocking the apprentice before he could react.

"Looks like that mouse will have to wait," she said, putting a paw to his chest. "Go on, you need to get out of here!"

Firepaw looked at her, clearly disagreeing. "What!? But-"

"No buts!" she ordered. "A badger is too dangerous for you. Go warn the rest of the clan. Tell them we need their help!"

Firepaw looked up as he saw the rest of the patrol face off with the creature.

"But… I…" He couldn't find the words. Everything was happening so fast. But I should be helping you!

Robinwing nudged him out of his stupor. "We'll be fine. Just hurry!"

Firepaw blinked, stumbling back. He couldn't respond, as Robinwing turned around with a snarl before quickly rushing to help her clanmates.

Taking a sharp breath, Firepaw whipped around, feeling his heart rip in two as he raced through the forest back to camp, leaving the fight to his mother and the patrol.

All he could think about was his lessons with Tigerclaw. He knew so much, he was sure he could help… But he was an apprentice, and Robinwing was a warrior. Apprentices followed a warrior's orders.

The young tom ran and ran. There was not a second to waste, for with each one came a chance for a cat to get hurt.

Firepaw eventually saw the gorse tunnel ahead. Bursting through it, he was hardly able to breathe.

"Help! Badger! There's a badger!" Firepaw yelled breathlessly to anyone that would hear him.

Everyone outside stopped what they were doing in an instant, some looking at him fearfully. They gathered around cautiously as Firepaw struggled to catch his breath.

"Firepaw?" Redtail suddenly appeared from behind the crowd. "What's this about a badger I hear?"

Firepaw struggled to speak, looking at the deputy.

"A badger… on patrol… it attacked us…"

Firepaw's hearing grew muffled, as his vision suddenly faded to black.

Firepaw blinked his eyes open. He lay in a soft bed, surrounded by dark walls of rock and moss.

"Where–?" He groaned, lifting himself up. Getting his bearings, he realized he was in the medicine den.

A trill to his side made him look over. Spottedleaf could be seen nearby, seemingly sorting herbs.

"Oh, you're awake," she said before padding over. "I wasn't expecting you to be up so soon."

Firepaw felt his throat tighten as she approached, suddenly remembering everything.

"Spottedleaf… How long have I been here?"

The medicine cat stopped. He saw a flash of concern on her face.

"No worries, Firepaw, it has not been long…" she said. "But you don't need to think about that. For now, you need rest-"

"What happened?" Firepaw pressed, noting her hesitation. "Where's the badger?"

Words seemed to get caught in Spottedleaf's throat as she tried to reply. A shuffling could be heard behind them, and Firepaw turned to see a large blue-furred molly push her way through the lichen.

"B-Bluestar?" He thought aloud. So the patrol is back?!

His mentor seemed surprised to see him, but did not respond as she shouldered her way past him. Firepaw was taken aback, noticing a limp in her stride.

"Bluestar… A-are you hurt?"

The leader of ThunderClan didn't seem to have the energy for his question, favoring one of her paws as she sat down. She shared a glance with Spottedleaf, sighing.

"Don't worry about me, Firepaw. I'll be fine," she said in an even tone, licking her injured paw. "Although… I wish I could say the same for Robinwing."

Firepaw's breath hitched. He looked at Spottedleaf, seeing her face cringe a little. He turned sharply before running out of the den.

Where is she? He feared the worst. Where is my mother!?

Firepaw burst into the clearing, but could only spend a few moments looking around before his heart dropped to his stomach.

In the middle of clearing, the body of a dark-furred cat lay still. A few others surrounded them, licking their fur. Firepaw struggled to breathe. The cat had a ginger patch on their chest - it was Robinwing.

His body began moving on its own before an arm was stretched in front of him.

"Patience, Firepaw…" Whitestorm suddenly appeared, almost like he'd been waiting for him. "She's gone."

Firepaw could hardly even acknowledge him, as his eyes began to water.

"G-...Gone?" He choked. Whitestorm frowned, looking ahead.

"Bluestar said she fought braver than any warrior today, but it was too late by the time we arrived." The older warrior shook his head as a mournful sigh left him. "I'm sorry, young Firepaw. She walks with StarClan now."

Firepaw could barely hear him as a ringing in his ears began.

…No

…NOOO!

Firepaw sprinted forward, barrelling towards the cat laying still on the ground. Everyone nearby yelped, quickly shuffling away from the large tom as Firepaw practically landed on top of Robinwing's body.

Firepaw felt a shiver up his spine as he looked down. Deep gashes ran along her flank and throat, the smell of dried blood heavily mixed with her scent. It made him want to vomit.

…N-no, this isn't real. S-she said–... No, this can't be happening!

Firepaw could only repeat the same thing in his mind as his breath came in pants. He pawed at her, pushed her limbs, licked her face. Something had to wake her up.

This couldn't be Robinwing. His mother couldn't be dead.

In his desperate attempts to wake her, pawsteps suddenly could be heard from behind.

"And that is why we fight…"

Firepaw stiffened, hearing a dark, familiar voice. He swallowed. Why- why did he have to be here right now?

"This is why we train. This is why we perfect even the simplest of techniques. Your paws are made for battle, Firepaw, not running for help." Tigerclaw practically spat that last word. He spoke in a low voice, but to Firepaw, it felt like he was screaming. "I thought I had taught you this, but it seems you still have a long way to go."

Firepaw gripped his mother's fur harder. He could only imagine how the disappointment looked on his father's face.

"She… she told me to run…" he tried to speak between sobs.

"She only told you that because she wanted to know you were safe," his father said. "She loved you too much. She thought with her emotions, so she took a chance, believing she could fight without your help. You see where that got her?"

Firepaw froze. Every word from his father shook him to his core. He couldn't even get angry at him. He couldn't feel anything.

"Tell me, did you want to stay and fight?"

Firepaw was shaking, sniffling as his legs threatened to give out.

"Y...Yes," he answered in a whimper.

Tigerclaw said nothing for a moment. "Then, you should have stayed."

Firepaw clenched his teeth, hearing him turn around. For the first time in his life, he had the desire to slash his father right across his throat.

But Firepaw remained still as Tigerclaw simply padded away, the two having never faced each other.

He held his paws tightly against Robinwing's fur, hackles raised. It wasn't long before he was alone in the clearing. The silence was deafening.

It wasn't long before Firepaw finally collapsed, sobbing into his mother's fur like a kit. Tears soaked the already blood-stained fur, as Firepaw breathed in what little scent there was left.

All night, he stayed with her, the cold breeze carrying the sounds of grief throughout the forest.

Days passed, as they always had.

His father and mentor continued to train him, cold and strict as ever, almost like nothing had ever happened. Firepaw almost envied them. He wished he could forget as time passed, like they seemingly had.

But it wasn't the same.

The clan didn't forget what happened. It seemed like Firepaw couldn't go a day without seeing a look of pity, or something of the sort. He hated it. To be seen as pitiful. A warrior wouldn't allow it, he knew that much. It especially didn't help when Willowpelt started up the half-clan remarks again.

Firepaw avoided his siblings, who more or less avoided him as well. He couldn't approach them. In his heart, he knew they would blame him for what happened. Robinwing was gone, and so was the connection he felt between them.

In the end, Firepaw decided he didn't care. They always preferred to be with their mentors anyway. Fighting was all that mattered anymore. It was what he was made for. It was what he was taught.

If he couldn't protect those closest to him, then did he even deserve them?

Snarling, Firepaw slammed his bulk into the side of a RiverClan warrior. They were sent flying on their backs, yowling in pain as they scrambled away. Firepaw turned, his pupils slit as he looked for his next target, blood staining his fangs and fur.

The once peaceful Sunningrocks had now been overtaken by the sounds of hisses and screeching. Thunderclan cats could be seen rustling and fighting with the bulkier warriors of RiverClan. Bluestar needed the territory, and Firepaw made it a clear point that he wanted to fight for it.

Firepaw rushed forward, slamming his large claws into another cat's flank. He pierced their glossy fur, making them yowl as blood sprayed the ground. They turned to face Firepaw, who was already careening his talon-like claws towards their face. The RiverClanner was knocked off their paws, skidding across the ground a few tail-lengths. They were slow to get up, barely conscious.

Firepaw licked his bloodied claws, intent on finishing the job, when he suddenly heard a screech to his side. He whipped his head over, seeing one of his clanmates being assaulted by two enemy warriors.

Runningwind! Firepaw recognized the tom.

Runningwind hissed as his opponents grew closer. Firepaw growled. What cowards, fighting in a two-in-one! He knew Runningwind couldn't take them on his own.

Firepaw surged towards them as they jumped towards Runningwind, pinning his clanmate down.

Perking up, the two warriors looked over just in time as Firepaw barreled into them at frightening speed. Knocking one of them away, Firepaw quickly turned, snapping at the other cat as they jumped back.

Runningwind groaned as he got up, his fur matted with muddy earth.

"Heh. I owe you one, big guy," he said, locking his eyes with his assailant. "These frog-lovers aren't playing around."

Firepaw stood his ground as the RiverClanners circled them.

"I won't let you fight alone," he said, his eyes blazing as he thought of Robinwing.

He heard his clanmate snicker before they each charged ahead. Firepaw fought blow for blow with the RiverClan cat. The adrenaline was spiking, as Firepaw fought tore through his opponent like a blazing inferno.

The RiverClan cat quickly realized they were outmatched, not even being able to get a hit in. Firepaw landed one final strike with his bear-like paws, sending them on their back.

Firepaw scoffed as they scurried away, looking over to see Runningwind was now holding his own, thankfully.

"Tigerclaw, we must retreat!"

Firepaw perked up as he caught the voice of Redtail somewhere in the distance. He looked ahead, seeing Tigerclaw appear above the fighting.

"ThunderClan, fall back! Retreat!" The great tabby roared.

Firepaw grunted in frustration, but retreated as quickly as he could. He had to follow orders, no matter how much more he wanted to fight.

Firepaw was surprised how quickly they withdrew, seeing nobody behind him as he made it into the forest. He gave a sigh of exhaustion, the adrenaline wearing off.

The patrol surrounded him, looking worn.

"Is that everyone?" Redtail suddenly came up to him, Tigerclaw by his side. "You were the last to arrive."

It took Firepaw a moment to realize he was being asked.

"Oh… yes! Nobody was left behind, Redtail," he confirmed.

Redtail nodded, turning away to rally the rest of the patrol. Tigerclaw stayed behind.

Firepaw kept his narrowed look on his father. Their eyelines were nearly level, he noticed. He was getting larger. Stronger. He was becoming worthy of a warrior's name, like Tigerclaw always wanted.

Tigerclaw didn't say anything. He didn't have to. He knew what his son was thinking just by the look on his face.

The tabby simply gave him a nod before turning to follow Redtail.

Firepaw watched him go, unhappy. His tail was beating the ground. He didn't care for the nod his father gave him, but rather his glare. It wasn't the same one he'd used to give him. There was no anger in it. No disappointment. No pride. In fact, it was nothing, really.

Like he was just another warrior.

Firepaw stood tall in front of the Highrock, the whole of ThunderClan surrounding him. Muscles rippled beneath his ginger pelt as his fur shone brightly under the midday sun.

Bluestar stood alone atop the Highrock, beaming with pride.

"I, Bluestar, leader of ThunderClan, call upon my warrior ancestors to look down on this apprentice. They have trained hard to understand the ways of your noble code, and I commend them to you as a warrior in their turn."

Firepaw held his breath the moment she spoke. His heart was racing, the moons of struggles and hardships all leading to this one moment. Bluestar looked around the clan as she continued.

"Firepaw, you came to us on a cold night of Leaf-bare. Some doubted your right to be here, but you fought through the adversity and overcame the challenges we presented to you. As your mentor and leader, I couldn't be more proud to see you sitting where you are today."

Firepaw felt his ears flush with embarrassment, knowing just how hard Bluestar's praise was to come by. Her words moved him deeply, forcing a small smile on his usually stoic face.

"Firepaw, do you promise to uphold the warrior code and to protect and defend your Clan, even at the cost of your life?"

His heart beat even faster, thinking of Robinwing's sacrifice.

"I do."

Bluestar nodded, raising her head towards the sky.

"Then by the powers of StarClan, I give you your warrior name. Firepaw, from this moment on you will be known as Fireheart. StarClan honors your strength and determination, and we welcome you as a full warrior of ThunderClan."

The cheering already began as Bluestar leapt down from the Highrock. Fireheart had to lean down a little so she could rest her muzzle on his head. He licked her shoulder, purring loudly as she stepped back.

"Congratulations." She smiled at him warmly.

"Fireheart! Fireheart! Fireheart!"

The cheers echoed loudly throughout the clearing. Fireheart did all he could to keep his composure, smiling as his clanmates came up to congratulate him. Never before had he seen so many cats happy for him. It was clear that he had earned their respect.

Even Ravenpaw and Dustpaw came up to congratulate him, his adopted brothers who he never saw around anymore.

Fireheart felt his heart skip a beat as Tigerclaw approached alongside his apprentice. He didn't know what to expect, but to his surprise, his father's gaze was nothing like before.

He could see a glint of respect, one Fireheart couldn't recall ever seeing in his life.

Tigerclaw gave him a nod of approval as he offered his congratulations. Fireheart was in awe, seeing that his father finally respected him as a warrior.

He couldn't stop smiling after, even when the ceremony concluded.

After all, he had just earned his warrior name and made his father proud.

That's all he ever really wanted, right?

Fireheart held a mouse tightly in his jaws, heading for a particularly shady spot near the warrior's den, trying not to bump into his clanmates as he skirted around them, although his size made that rather difficult.

"You know, when you said you wanted me to return that favor, sharing a meal was not one of the things I had in mind," Runningwind said as he chewed his fresh-kill.

Fireheart looked away bashfully from his place beside him. He could see the whole clearing from where they were - all the warriors going about their day.

"I don't have many friends. I just… thought it'd be something nice to do for once."

"Really? No friends?" Runningwind replied jokingly, nudging him. "Well, I'd say we get along well enough, yeah?"

Fireheart blushed a little. He wasn't used to interacting like this. Was he supposed to be this friendly?

"Yeah… we do," he replied. "Thanks for listening."

"Mhm. I'm told I'm good at that," Runningwind said proudly. "Good at observing, too, and I bet you're happy now that Tigerclaw's finally found something else to distract him, huh?"

Fireheart stopped chewing, looking at him confused.

"Oh, you have noticed it, right? He's been talking with Goldenflower ever since she had Swiftkit. Something tells me they're starting to fall for each other."

Fireheart twitched his whiskers, looking over to where he was pointing. His father was speaking with Goldenflower in front of the nursery. They seemed to be enjoying each other's company - not like Fireheart would know what that looks like.

"Ah…" He couldn't think of any other way to react. Runningwind chuckled.

"Well, doesn't that get you excited? The queens are gossiping about it already! Big, bad Tigerclaw looks like he has a soft spot for one of them."

Fireheart felt a wave of heat through his ears, shaking his head.

"Yeah… great." He kept eating. So what? He doesn't have an excuse to bother me anymore. I'm sure he's just dying for attention.

Fireheart looked over again, his curiosity winning him over, seeing Goldenflower laugh at something Tigerclaw said and the latter smiling back.

Sniffing, Fireheart went back to his mouse, this time not turning away.

How long has Tigerclaw even been talking to her anyway? He wondered. Was he really so focused on his training this past moon that he hadn't noticed until now? That could explain why he hadn't seen him around much.

…Oh, whatever.

He couldn't keep thinking about his father's amorous behavior, lest his meal might come right back up his throat.

They were probably just friends. Runningwind had always been known to have too much of an infatuation with gossip anyway.

"You should expect your kin to be born soon, and I want you to be prepared for when they come."

Fireheart blinked. He thought he had just misheard. He gazed at his father with a mixture of shock and worry.

"...What?"

Tigerclaw was steady, like he'd been anticipating that level of reaction.

"I expect you to help your mother when the other queens cannot. You must learn these things if you want to be a good mate one day."

"I–" Fireheart stopped.

It took a moment for him to catch his breath, realizing this was a real conversation he was about to have.

"Why do I have to help her? Why can't you?" he complained, ignoring the last bit he said. "And she's not my mother, you know."

Tigerclaw lashed his tail. "She will be the mother to your siblings," he said roughly, "so whether you like it or not, that's what she is to you now."

Now Fireheart was mad. He had a mother, and it wasn't Goldenflower.

"Alright, fine! Whatever! Anything you say, dad," he drawled.

"Don't even start," Tigerclaw growled. "You will love your kin, and you will teach them to be good warriors, just as I've taught you. You're lucky Goldenflower is so headstrong, otherwise I would've made you start helping her earlier."

Fireheart jerked his head away with disgust. He couldn't help but groan on the inside.

But I didn't get her pregnant, did I? Why is it MY responsibility? He vented to himself before clenching his eyes shut. Ugh… No, stop it. I… shouldn't say stuff like that. This is my kin, after all… I should help Goldenflower regardless. Maybe this'll get him off my back for once.

Inhaling, Fireheart looked back at his father, giving him a nod.

"Alright, Tigerclaw, I understand." He nodded in defeat. "I'll be there for her the moment they're born."

Tigerclaw frowned, seeming unconvinced, but still nodded back.

"Good. I know these kits will make me proud with their older brother by their side, the same way you have."

Fireheart wasn't fond of his tone, but he was too tired to argue, simply dipping his head as he was dismissed.

"Aren't they just the cutest?" Goldenflower purred.

Nearly half a moon later, and Fireheart felt nothing but love now as he looked down at his new half-siblings. Bramblekit and Tawnykit were the names.

"They sure are," he said. "They already look like warriors. Nobody would doubt they're Tigerclaw's."

Goldenflower licked their fur as they slept next to her warm stomach. Swiftkit slept with them, the older kit hugging the two of them, as if to protect them.

Goldenflower chuckled as she watched her oldest. "You know, Swiftkit can't stop talking about you or his new siblings to every cat that comes through here. He adores you."

Fireheart looked over at the kit, remembering the first time he watched over him after his talk with Tigerclaw. It was a pleasant surprise when he learned the kit loved to play as much as Fireheart did when he was in the nursery.

As much as he could, Fireheart would play with him when he wasn't hunting or patrolling. Swiftkit had taken more than just a liking to him, it seemed. Sometimes, they would spend the entire day together. The young cat needed it, Goldenflower said, as Brindleface's kits were still too small to interact with him.

"As do I."

Fireheart looked up when Goldenflower spoke again, not expecting to hear that. Goldenflower purred, gazing at him with pure adoration.

"Fireheart, I know I may never replace Robinwing, but I want you to know that… It makes me so proud seeing my mate's son grow into such a kind young warrior. And after all you've been through… I can't thank you enough for all of your help these past few moons."

Fireheart gave her a warm smile. At least she sees how much I do. Like Robinwing always did.

"It was my pleasure," he said, butting his head against hers. "That's what family is for, isn't it?"

Goldenflower purred gratefully. She was more than happy when he asked if he could sleep with the kits.

"It's fine, Fireheart," Runningwind tried calming him, seeing his friend was lashing his tail. "You can't be on every battle patrol, you know? What's Goldenflower gonna do without you?"

Fireheart focused his gaze on the gorse tunnel, able to see it from their usual spot in the shade. The patrol sent to take back Sunningrocks was supposed to be back by now, had everything gone to plan.

"Oh, please, she's fine. She can handle the kits on her own," he growled. He waited another few moments before releasing a sigh. "It's just… I haven't been on a battle patrol in weeks, much less one with Tigerclaw. I'm starting to think Redtail is doing it on purpose."

Runningwind shrugged. "I don't see the problem. Can't you ever appreciate taking a load off?"

"Do you know who my mentor was?" Fireheart retorted, giving him a look. "There was no such thing."

Runningwind snickered. "Alright, fair enough," he replied. "Well, when Redtail gets back, wanna talk to him? Mousefur's been wanting me to go on more patrols too, now that I think about it."

Fireheart groaned like a spoiled kit, laying back down in defeat. "Sure, I guess… Just not in front of everyone."

He supposed the patrol had to return at some point. Maybe it'd be a good idea to enjoy the peace and quiet before it was gone. Fireheart closed his eyes to rest, now really starting to appreciate the warm sun

"...Hey. Hey, Fireheart." Runningwind pawed at him. His eyes shot open.

"Whaat?" Fireheart raised his head dramatically, clearly irritated.

"Oh, keep your fur on," Runningwind said before pointing with his tail. "Get a load of what Bluestar just brought in."

Fireheart raised his brow, turning to see Bluestar, Whitestorm, Lionheart, and Graypaw all heading into the clearing. What he didn't expect to see, however, was a fifth cat make their way through the gorse tunnel.

A small, pale ginger she-cat strutted warily into the camp, their green eyes filing with amazement as they looked all around the camp. She couldn't have been more than Graypaw's age.

What the– an intruder?! His fur spiked. Fireheart stood up, ready to defend his camp. As he looked over the she-cat again, however, he realized this wasn't your ordinary intruder.

No, wait, that's a collar… Fireheart noticed the small, purple accessory around their neck. Did… Bluestar just lead a kittypet directly into our camp?

"What's a kittypet doing here?" Longtail shared his same concerns, albeit much more publicly. "She doesn't belong in our camp! Drive her out!"

Fireheart could only watch in awe as the clan gathered around them, yet the kittypet hardly seemed to care, giving Longtail a vicious sneer.

"I didn't run all the way over here just to get kicked out, ya know!" she growled, flexing her claws.

Fireheart blinked. Longtail wants to fight a kittypet… and the kittypet wants to fight as well?

All of a sudden, the concerns about Tigerclaw and Sunningrocks had left his mind. Longtail wasn't his favorite clanmate by any means, but he was always fun to watch when he got fired up.

Fireheart made himself comfortable next to Runningwind, who seemed equally as amused.

Now this might actually get interesting…

…