SkyClan Territory

[lilith]

Originally Posted by tawny~

@turtle
The egyptian mau slinked through the territory, ears flicking as she trotted through the trees, eyes darting left and right. She still wasn't used to the new territory, and 100% of the time, she was on edge, waiting for something, or someone to pounce out of no where and attack her. The molly couldn't help being on edge, but something today made her extra wary, what it was, she had no idea, but it couldn't be anything good, not at all. She trudged on, ears perked up for a little sound, any pitter patter of paws, anything to alert her of any danger. Her optics glistened with worry and paranoia, she didn't like it when they moved, not at all. All she knew, and held dear was left behind, familiar spots, trees, and everything to remind her that she was in her home, was gone. The territory did look a little like her old one, but still, it wasn't the same, it wasn't at all. The molly lifted her muzzle up to the sky, pupils widening slightly, clouds were rolling in above her, and she knew what that would lead to, rain, and at times, with rain, came thunder, and lighting. A small, quiet whimper escaped the warrior, and she slowly continued on, shaking her head slightly, trying to reassure herself.
Owlwing...its going to be o-okay, it might just be a normal d-down pour, no l-lightning and thunder at all! A whimper escaped her maw as she tried calmed herself down, her heart pounding at the memories of one night that terrified her still. Then, a flash of light engulfed the area, and a rumbling sounded in her ears. Her ears shot up at the sound instantly, her heart pounding intensively in her chest. Trying to calm herself, Owlwing's ears flattened against her head, looking to the left, and then to the right, rain falling from the sky, and the molly was instantly thankful for the trees sheltering her from the rain as she quickened her pace, continuing on through the trees, tail twitching as she went, rain splashing on her pelt. She hissed in annoyance, her fur plastered against her body. Another flash of lightning, followed by a big, nasty rumble, sending a whimper coming out of the molly's mouth, and another flash of lightning passed.
Why did it have to storm today...of all days! She thought, eyes glistening as she darted to a tree, to hide, to stay away from the memories of what happened to her sister, and the memories of her father, even though she thought it had left her when they left for their new territory. The white tabby's head shook, fur bristling as another rumble sounded. She hated thunderstorms, they reminded her of terrifying events in the past, and she hated remembering them, it made her scared, scared that it would play out again before her eyes, again, leaving her helplessly watching the death of her..dear..sister. Her poor, poor sister, it was sickening to think of her death, even now. She sniffed, sitting down, wrapping her tail around her paws, optics shining with emotion, so much emotion.

The small two toned molly had been set to the task of collecting moss for the elders nest. Having a few small bundles tucked under her chin. Her soft green eyes scanned the area in hopes of finding more places in which the moss could be ridden in its area. The scent of the possibility of rain laid thickly in the surrounding area. Glancing up she noticed the dark looming clouds above. Sighing she began to quicken her pace not wanting the freshly clawed moss to get wet. She would probably never hear the end of it if it were to come to that. The faster she padded the more she had to pause to situate the bundles under her chin dropping a few on the dusted ground. Grumbling she picked it up, that's when she started to feel the light patter of the rain on her back. If she couldn't make it home quicker she might as well find a dry area in order to save her hard work getting the moss. Now turning course she began to make her way towards the try keeping up with her fast pace. Her ears folded back as her fur slowly began to get plastered to her skin. Sighing in annoyance she finally made it to the trees. Her pace slowed as she was drawing closer her ears perked when the loud clashing began to occur. Turning her head around she also caught a nother sound.... whimpering.. Feeling the need to find the source she began to look around for the source of the noise. With what seemed forever and the amount of jumping with each clapping in the sky she finally found it. A whimpering molly hidden under the tree, dropping the bundles she padded closer to her. "Are.... are you alright? Are you hurt?" She asked her eyes wide with worry for the stranger.

[seasalt]

Originally Posted by turtle

The small two toned molly had been set to the task of collecting moss for the elders nest. Having a few small bundles tucked under her chin. Her soft green eyes scanned the area in hopes of finding more places in which the moss could be ridden in its area. The scent of the possibility of rain laid thickly in the surrounding area. Glancing up she noticed the dark looming clouds above. Sighing she began to quicken her pace not wanting the freshly clawed moss to get wet. She would probably never hear the end of it if it were to come to that. The faster she padded the more she had to pause to situate the bundles under her chin dropping a few on the dusted ground. Grumbling she picked it up, that's when she started to feel the light patter of the rain on her back. If she couldn't make it home quicker she might as well find a dry area in order to save her hard work getting the moss. Now turning course she began to make her way towards the try keeping up with her fast pace. Her ears folded back as her fur slowly began to get plastered to her skin. Sighing in annoyance she finally made it to the trees. Her pace slowed as she was drawing closer her ears perked when the loud clashing began to occur. Turning her head around she also caught a another sound.... whimpering.. Feeling the need to find the source she began to look around for the source of the noise. With what seemed forever and the amount of jumping with each clapping in the sky she finally found it. A whimpering molly hidden under the tree, dropping the bundles she padded closer to her. "Are.... are you alright? Are you hurt?" She asked her eyes wide with worry for the stranger.

( This is probably gonna be super short ;2; )
The Egyptian Mau seemed to be lost in her own thoughts, a sea of memories of endless horror and sadness, with the memories haunting her every single time she thought about them, every..single time... Why she thought about them, she didn't know why, honestly. They were her worst nightmares repeating, over and over. And her father...was her father in the Dark Forest? She was certain he was, and ready to get at her again, and make her life a living nightmare, and it seemed to be working, it really was. The wet molly sniffed slightly, ears twitching as she sat in the darkness, only flashes of lightning lighting up the sky. Her optics glistened as she thought about how her sister was doing in Starclan, she begged to know, every single day she hoped to see her in dreams, or...something. But alas, Owlwing didn't seem to be getting her wishes granted. Blinking away her tears, she lifted her head to the apprentice, a flash of surprise in her yellow optics.
"O-Oh!" The molly exclaimed, ears flattened against her rain batted fur, she didn't realize she wouldn't be alone out in the territory. "Me...hurt? I don't believe so...why..?" Owlwing gave an awkward smile, looking down at the ground, lowering her head as she did so. Ugh..Owlwing, this is why you shouldn't whimper like a coward... "I was just, reliving some memories...its really no big deal..." She replied, tail lashing as she spoke again, embarrassment slightly radiating off of her instantly after she spoke, she didn't mean to cause such concern, not a all, no cat was ever concerned about her often, and this had surprised her greatly, no cat even noticed her at all at times, maybe for patrols but nothing else than that, friends sure but they were often busy, so she was often alone, and that was fine with her. A cautious expression was lit on her face as she studied the apprentice closer. It was one of her clanmates alright, but her name, she didn't really know. It would all come in time, but Owlwing didn't want to bother her and ask, she didn't feel like talking much anyways, the grief she had relived made it difficult to anyways.

[lilith]

Originally Posted by tawny~

( This is probably gonna be super short ;2; )
The Egyptian Mau seemed to be lost in her own thoughts, a sea of memories of endless horror and sadness, with the memories haunting her every single time she thought about them, every..single time... Why she thought about them, she didn't know why, honestly. They were her worst nightmares repeating, over and over. And her father...was her father in the Dark Forest? She was certain he was, and ready to get at her again, and make her life a living nightmare, and it seemed to be working, it really was. The wet molly sniffed slightly, ears twitching as she sat in the darkness, only flashes of lightning lighting up the sky. Her optics glistened as she thought about how her sister was doing in Starclan, she begged to know, every single day she hoped to see her in dreams, or...something. But alas, Owlwing didn't seem to be getting her wishes granted. Blinking away her tears, she lifted her head to the apprentice, a flash of surprise in her yellow optics.
"O-Oh!" The molly exclaimed, ears flattened against her rain batted fur, she didn't realize she wouldn't be alone out in the territory. "Me...hurt? I don't believe so...why..?" Owlwing gave an awkward smile, looking down at the ground, lowering her head as she did so. Ugh..Owlwing, this is why you shouldn't whimper like a coward... "I was just, reliving some memories...its really no big deal..." She replied, tail lashing as she spoke again, embarrassment slightly radiating off of her instantly after she spoke, she didn't mean to cause such concern, not a all, no cat was ever concerned about her often, and this had surprised her greatly, no cat even noticed her at all at times, maybe for patrols but nothing else than that, friends sure but they were often busy, so she was often alone, and that was fine with her. A cautious expression was lit on her face as she studied the apprentice closer. It was one of her clanmates alright, but her name, she didn't really know. It would all come in time, but Owlwing didn't want to bother her and ask, she didn't feel like talking much anyways, the grief she had relived made it difficult to anyways.

Sensing something was off about the molly she took a seat in front of her lowering her head slightly. "Are you sure? Is there anything I can do to help? I think we'll be stuck out here for a little while... or I will anyways" She said, her voice was a more calm and quiet tone nothing seemed to make it more uneasy to hear. She knew that if the molly was telling the truth she might as well continue to talk in a more friendly tone seeing as no reason to be rude by any means. She studied the soaked molly through what little light that was shown through the loud flashing and banging noises that ranged in the sky. She had seen her around the camp before but she never had a need to go up to them as the older cat had their own duties to attend then. Ears twitching she cleared her throat slightly as she began a small introduction, she wasn't entirely sure what the mollys knowledge she may posses so she deiced to clarify with herself anyways. "The names Olivepaw, and who may you be....? If I can know of course" She asked closing her eyes as she dipped her head in a more polite greeting. The worse she could possibly want is to offend this stranger let alone scare them off. As they seem to be in the worse of state currently. "Are.. these memories bad? You don't have to say anything to that of course you have your right to your privacy" She mumbled flattening her ears to her damp fur.

[Brilliance]

Originally Posted by Lonestar23

"Oh whatever. If I can't be the star here, then I'll be the co-star." For a moment it looked like she actually might laugh before she remembered the severity of the situation. She didn't understand him telling her she was wrong. How was she wrong? She was the problem when it came to Bluepaw, and Alabasterpaw. If she seperated herself from him, surely the two of them would leave him alone. He would be safe, and she? Well... she would be... okay. Safe and okay. Those were the two things that mattered to her, as long as she remained safe and he was safe. Then she would be-- well, not necessarily happy, since she was losing a close friend, but she would be okay. She would survive. And she was absolutely positive that he would too. In a moment, her expression changed completely. She looked... miserable. And that was right before she collapsed. A lot of thoughts went through her head, but she couldn't pin one down. The most obvious one was 'I'm sorry.'
　
She was sorry. For everything. The damage she had caused would be there forever. This, she knew all too well. It was her fault. He was wrong-- she had done this, and she knew it. She did deserve to be punished. Look at this! Anytime she looked at him, she could see those stab wounds in his back. The ones that she wished had been her. And he had almost died... for her. Asterpaw knew why. But whether she was happy about it was highly questionable. A shudder went through her pelt as she heard him yelling at her. I have a lot of problems. Which one do you mean? She wanted to ask, but she couldn't. Her throat felt tight, constricted, and it was hard for her to breathe. So her breath came out in ragged, almost non-existent gasps. "I-I c...c-can't." She mewed in response to his command. She couldn't get up. She couldn't get up. What did that mean? Was she dying? Was this it for her? No-- surely not! That wasn't even possible, and yet she felt light and as though she were already being taken from the world.
　
Her eyes flickered closed, and the last thing she felt was him gently cleaning her bleeding leg. That was it. Everything was dark, and silent... and while her world before had seemed dark and silent, this one really was. She couldn't speak, either. This wasn't-- StarClan, was it? Where were the starry cats that she had heard about, or were those a legend? She wanted to speak. But she couldn't. Nothing was there, her paws were just...suspended. In mid air, along with the rest of her. And then, she could see. Was that her? No-- it wasn't. It wasn't! It didn't look like her at all, and she was terrified that she was wrong. Was she blind too? Like he had accused her of being? Blind. Yes, she was blind. And deaf, too. And nothing was there for her to stand on. She was weightless. All of her problems were now her own, because she was gone... there was nothing to worry about. But... she also had no one to lean on. No one to count on. It was just herself, and she was beginning to realize, even after a few moments, what a lonely existence it was.
　
The picture from below her faded. An illusion. That was all it had been... where was she? She wasn't in StarClan. And yet this place felt familiar, and she realized it was where she had been when she was knocked out. A place where she was waiting to die. And she wouldn't wake up. She had before, but she was afraid this time she was stuck there for good. Maybe, maybe she would be able to see Azulpaw again at some point. It was a disappointment to her that she had died. She had been hoping to stay alive, and yet... had she succeeded? She wasn't dead yet. It would all depend. The feline sighed, trying to move around, but she couldn't. She was trapped where she was suspended, in mid air where no one would be able to reach her. And the she cat sighed. Something was very, very wrong, but she didn't know what it was quite yet. She could feel things again... water. Splashing on her pelt. Was it raining? When did it start raining? And she heard no thunder, either.
　
Odd. Very, very odd-- but there was nothing she could do about it. And yet there was warmth, too... and a softness, a tenderness that she had felt before. She knew it. And suddenly the darkness was receding, and her eyes flickered back open. She could see. And hear. And she was alive... she hadn't really realized how being so close to death was so scary until now. And now she knew how scary it was. Or had she been? Was she in some sort of other place, a limbo state that she went to when she was knocked out? Or was it all in her imagination? "When did it start raining?" She asked, more to herself then anything else. But the sky was blue-- was he... actually crying? Asterpaw had never thought she would see, or hear that. And now she was. She felt horrible, awful, like she were the worst cat alive... and at the same time, a sense of relief. At least now she knew she wasn't crazy or worse, that it really had been raining. She hated rain. But if she had thought it had been raining before, it had never been sunnier now.
　
Asterpaw was glad to have him with her. The feline twisted her head around so that she could look at him, hear what he was saying better. A gentle, soft light entered her hues. "I love you too." She mewed in a voice just as soft and gentle as before. Her leg hurt. But she could barely feel it because of the warmth that was coming from the tom. He was the one thing in her life that made it brighter. That made every blow gentler, except when she saw him hurt. She couldn't stand it. The one thing that Asterpaw wished more then anythng else was that she could take it from him, make it her that went through the pain. But she couldn't. She knew that she couldn't. She wouldn't be able to take care of him forever, and she knew that they would never have any sort of a future-- friendship or otherwise. Alabasterpaw would make sure of that, one way or another. Her hues flashed worriedly, and she tried to swallow the lump that was beginning to well up in her throat.
　

"I'm so scared--"

She began, before her throat choked up again. She didn't know what to do. The feline was truly terrified that something might happen to the tom, and she would never get to see him again. He would be taken from her. "Alli-- Bluepaw-- they... they won't let us be like this. They're going to kill you." Her voice cracked. She knew it. She knew that they probably didn't have much longer. She didn't know what her demon of a sister and the tom she thought she could trust were planning, but she knew it couldn't be anything good for Azulpaw. He meant a lot to her. Being a light in the darkness, being the one voice of reason in whispers of lies and betrayal, that meant so much to Asterpaw. And yet she was scared, too... of the future between them. What was going to happen? Were they going to strike now, or later? Was she going to end up being a victim, the bait as she had been before? The bait. She had just been a pawn. She knew Alabasterpaw would never kill her.
　
But Azulpaw hadn't known that. Either he hadn't believed her or she had once again been blind to something-- seen something she missed. She knew there was some light, somewhere that she was missing. "I can't lose you." She didn't know what else to say, what else to do... she was terrified that she would end up losing him. And what if she did? What would happen, would she end up alone or would she have to be with Bluepaw? She would have no reason to avoid him. The one cat that meant so much to her would be gone. She would barely have a reason to stay alive. Promise me you won't go looking for trouble. She couldn't say anything else, because she felt her throat choke up again and a few tears sprang to her hues. She didn't quite know what to do, or what to think... she just knew that she cared so deeply for Azulpaw that she would do almost anything.

The grey tom pushed himself off Asterpaw, feeling her stirring. He tried to clear his tears away, but they were flowing freely, and he threw himself back on top of her, soaking in her scent, being happy that she was alive again. At her words, he had to hush her. ‘’Don’t bring it up.’’ He softly mews, picking himself up--or at least tried, as he used one paw to caress her cheek for a quick second. ‘’For now...we’re alone. No fighting. No one bothering us,’’ The tom gave a light chuckle. ‘’Even, if it’s in my last days, allow me to be happy where I am right now.’’ And, he was with her.

Azulpaw didn’t want to hurt the blue feline, so he shifted his weight to be next to her. He forgot how she was about physical contact, and reminded himself to not be so demanding of her attention. After all, the tom had her attention right now. As long as her eyes were open, her breathing was steady, and her voice made sound; he was happy. The tom tried not to focus on her words. For he knew that they may be true. He didn’t want to lose her either, if he were being honest, but he also knew that fate was out of his hands. Whatever happened, it happened. He wished he could change that, but the tom couldn’t. He believed that everyone wanted to change fate, and if they had a chance, then all the cats would travel through rigorous conditions in order to get a hint of it.

Remembering what she said, Azulpaw looked down at the feline, giving her a faint smile. ‘’You don’t have to be afraid of anything, Asterpaw. I promise.’’ It was the only thing he could do. He didn’t want her to be afraid. He was afraid. He didn’t want her to be worried. He was worried. He didn’t want her to feel anxious. He was anxious. He was scared because he didn’t know when Alabasterpaw or Bluepaw would strike. And, what about Silverpaw and Foxpaw? What would happen to them? The tom felt heavy. It wasn’t a conversation he wished to think about. Everything was already drowning his attention.

So, he laid down. Put his head on her her back, curled into a ball. Her back was a bit damp from his tears, but that was alright. He just wanted to rub the tears away. Rub his sorrows away, and she was the only thing that allowed him to do so. ‘’If you want...we can just...we can drop everything.’’ It pained him to say this, but if she felt that she was going to lose him--too scared to be his friend, it was the only option they had. It was the only thing they could do. And, it pained him. It made him depression, but he was ready if she wanted it to happen. ‘’We can stop seeing each other...and we can act like we never met.’’ He shrugged, lightly. His head still on her back, in content. If she agreed to this plan, he wanted to feel close to her as much as possible.

‘’I don’t want you to go through life being scared of what might happen. I’ll be okay. I’ll...live.’’ His eyes blinked in front of him. Even though he was faced away from her, he stared at the tree he had climbed. The many failed attempts he tried, and the one successful attempt, he had nearly fallen to his death. He wondered if he would climb trees ever again with an experience like that. Naturally, he was great at climbing rough surfaces. It was in his blood. Most likely from his father since he recalled how his mother hated climbing. That tree--to him, would be a memory of a downfall. Not his, but of his friendship with the one she-cat that...evolved him. Sure, he had Silverpaw, but the silver bengal was always there. But, Asterpaw was the one who evolved him. She accepted him for who he was. Even played along with him.

The tom longed for the earlier moments where they were joking around and being themselves. No one had to worry about Alabasterpaw or Bluepaw. They were simply pleased to be with each other. That made him happy, but breaking it off would do them some good. Enough space set between them, and Azulpaw could be alone. She would find new friends, and be happy once again. Azulpaw would have Silverpaw, and she would most likely help him be friendly to accept more cats.

A sudden thought occurred to the grey tom, and he shifted himself, picking his head up from Asterpaw. ‘’Sorry. Personal space, got it.’’ He didn’t want her to feel uncomfortable, so he dragged himself off of her. Yet, he was still close by to her, only a good distance, and he curled around himself once more, grunting in pain. Pain that would soon past. ‘’Think of it as...letting your slave go, master.’’ He joked, albeit a sad joke. ‘’And, you’re allowing that slave to live their life of freedom.’’ It wasn’t a sentence he wanted to add. It brought too much sadness, but he said it anyway because he wanted her to understand. He didn’t want to let her go. He didn’t have a choice.

He needed to let her go.

If she was so worried that he was going to die, he shouldn’t allow her to become attached. In case he did die. The tom knew that they were never promised tomorrow. They’re not even promised for the next second. One of them could drop dead right now, and Alabasterpaw and Bluepaw would be innocent. Anything could happen, but he needed her to hear this. Remembering her words:

I love you too.

How was he suppose to let her go after hearing that? After it touched his heart in a million ways more than one? How could he let her go at this point when all he wanted to do was make her happy and protect her until the end of her days? Sure, Azulpaw was young, but he would grow older. He knew mistakes happened to every age, and he was prone to make mistakes in the future. The tom was never the clingy type, like Bluepaw was. The tom liked when others became clingy to him. It was an indication that he was needed, that he was loved. Though he did have boundaries when it came to such things, but his heart was soft. Still, guarded, but soft. And, it was only soft for the apprentice next to him. ‘’If you love someone, you let them go, right?’’ He said, bringing his head up. And, if they love you back, they’ll return. Only he didn’t voice this thought aloud. He didn’t know if he truly believed it. Love was unpredictable. Unpredictable as other cats were. Just like how emotions were. Just like how everything was. Two moons in a row he had got himself injured. Though the first moon he was lucky to not obtain any scared. The second moon? Not so lucky. Now he had stab wound in the middle of his back, and he flinched every time he was reminded of it.

He looked ugly. Hideous. A tragic. He didn’t want other cats to look at him when he was in this mood. He was suppose to be a confident, cocky, arrogant tom that knew he was handsome and, at times, obnoxious. But...he wasn’t. It dawned on him that he wanted to hide from the world. He wanted to protect himself from ever feeling such a way again. It was never a good feeling. And, it made him shudder. Why all of a sudden he felt insecure about himself?

Those scars...they would be with him for the rest of his life. The tom blinked his eyes, and he turned his head to look once more back at Asterpaw. ‘’Even though I’m letting you go, my paws will always be open whenever you’re ready to return.’’ Azulpaw felt like he was leaving a beautiful home and venturing out on his own as he said this to her. Everyone that lived in a clan, noticed that Skyclan was their home. Azulpaw never felt this. Whenever he was near the paws that cared for him, that loved him, he felt like he was at home. It was the greatest feeling ever. But, now he was a rogue. He just lost his home. He walked away from it, and allowed her to be free. Hopefully, she’ll be a new shelter to sad paws that will need her.

[BluBunnie]

Originally Posted by Noire

Cloudriver tilted her head up further to look at the sky. Her eyes scanned everywhere, a proud smile on her face. Everything was great in her opinion. Everything was quiet. Everything that she liked. She had her loving friend, Mousefur on the side of her, and that made her content. She felt him press his muzzle against her, and the she-cat swallowed a nervous lump in her throat. ''I love you too, Mousy.'' She told him gently, before turning her body towards him, scooting herself next to him, and brushing her pelt against his. This alone could make her sleep. As long as she was pressed against something or someone she loved dearly, she would be able to dream sweet dreams. ''Thank you for this, Mousy. It means so much to me, and I want to thank you.'' She gently lifted her muzzle and gave his cheek a tender lick before settling herself down, and curling into a ball, pressed against him.

[/CENTER]

Mousefur smiled sleepily, he was enjoying this night so much and hoped they would do it again soon. His heart raced as she scooted closer to him, Mousefur let out another one of his strange, lovable purrs. He closed his eyes as she licked his cheek and wrapped himself around Cloudriver. He soon began to fall asleep, with a light smile on his face.

{So freaking cute}

[lone]

Originally Posted by Noire

The grey tom pushed himself off Asterpaw, feeling her stirring. He tried to clear his tears away, but they were flowing freely, and he threw himself back on top of her, soaking in her scent, being happy that she was alive again. At her words, he had to hush her. ‘’Don’t bring it up.’’ He softly mews, picking himself up--or at least tried, as he used one paw to caress her cheek for a quick second. ‘’For now...we’re alone. No fighting. No one bothering us,’’ The tom gave a light chuckle. ‘’Even, if it’s in my last days, allow me to be happy where I am right now.’’ And, he was with her.

Azulpaw didn’t want to hurt the blue feline, so he shifted his weight to be next to her. He forgot how she was about physical contact, and reminded himself to not be so demanding of her attention. After all, the tom had her attention right now. As long as her eyes were open, her breathing was steady, and her voice made sound; he was happy. The tom tried not to focus on her words. For he knew that they may be true. He didn’t want to lose her either, if he were being honest, but he also knew that fate was out of his hands. Whatever happened, it happened. He wished he could change that, but the tom couldn’t. He believed that everyone wanted to change fate, and if they had a chance, then all the cats would travel through rigorous conditions in order to get a hint of it.

Remembering what she said, Azulpaw looked down at the feline, giving her a faint smile. ‘’You don’t have to be afraid of anything, Asterpaw. I promise.’’ It was the only thing he could do. He didn’t want her to be afraid. He was afraid. He didn’t want her to be worried. He was worried. He didn’t want her to feel anxious. He was anxious. He was scared because he didn’t know when Alabasterpaw or Bluepaw would strike. And, what about Silverpaw and Foxpaw? What would happen to them? The tom felt heavy. It wasn’t a conversation he wished to think about. Everything was already drowning his attention.

So, he laid down. Put his head on her her back, curled into a ball. Her back was a bit damp from his tears, but that was alright. He just wanted to rub the tears away. Rub his sorrows away, and she was the only thing that allowed him to do so. ‘’If you want...we can just...we can drop everything.’’ It pained him to say this, but if she felt that she was going to lose him--too scared to be his friend, it was the only option they had. It was the only thing they could do. And, it pained him. It made him depression, but he was ready if she wanted it to happen. ‘’We can stop seeing each other...and we can act like we never met.’’ He shrugged, lightly. His head still on her back, in content. If she agreed to this plan, he wanted to feel close to her as much as possible.

‘’I don’t want you to go through life being scared of what might happen. I’ll be okay. I’ll...live.’’ His eyes blinked in front of him. Even though he was faced away from her, he stared at the tree he had climbed. The many failed attempts he tried, and the one successful attempt, he had nearly fallen to his death. He wondered if he would climb trees ever again with an experience like that. Naturally, he was great at climbing rough surfaces. It was in his blood. Most likely from his father since he recalled how his mother hated climbing. That tree--to him, would be a memory of a downfall. Not his, but of his friendship with the one she-cat that...evolved him. Sure, he had Silverpaw, but the silver bengal was always there. But, Asterpaw was the one who evolved him. She accepted him for who he was. Even played along with him.

The tom longed for the earlier moments where they were joking around and being themselves. No one had to worry about Alabasterpaw or Bluepaw. They were simply pleased to be with each other. That made him happy, but breaking it off would do them some good. Enough space set between them, and Azulpaw could be alone. She would find new friends, and be happy once again. Azulpaw would have Silverpaw, and she would most likely help him be friendly to accept more cats.

A sudden thought occurred to the grey tom, and he shifted himself, picking his head up from Asterpaw. ‘’Sorry. Personal space, got it.’’ He didn’t want her to feel uncomfortable, so he dragged himself off of her. Yet, he was still close by to her, only a good distance, and he curled around himself once more, grunting in pain. Pain that would soon past. ‘’Think of it as...letting your slave go, master.’’ He joked, albeit a sad joke. ‘’And, you’re allowing that slave to live their life of freedom.’’ It wasn’t a sentence he wanted to add. It brought too much sadness, but he said it anyway because he wanted her to understand. He didn’t want to let her go. He didn’t have a choice.

He needed to let her go.

If she was so worried that he was going to die, he shouldn’t allow her to become attached. In case he did die. The tom knew that they were never promised tomorrow. They’re not even promised for the next second. One of them could drop dead right now, and Alabasterpaw and Bluepaw would be innocent. Anything could happen, but he needed her to hear this. Remembering her words:

I love you too.

How was he suppose to let her go after hearing that? After it touched his heart in a million ways more than one? How could he let her go at this point when all he wanted to do was make her happy and protect her until the end of her days? Sure, Azulpaw was young, but he would grow older. He knew mistakes happened to every age, and he was prone to make mistakes in the future. The tom was never the clingy type, like Bluepaw was. The tom liked when others became clingy to him. It was an indication that he was needed, that he was loved. Though he did have boundaries when it came to such things, but his heart was soft. Still, guarded, but soft. And, it was only soft for the apprentice next to him. ‘’If you love someone, you let them go, right?’’ He said, bringing his head up. And, if they love you back, they’ll return. Only he didn’t voice this thought aloud. He didn’t know if he truly believed it. Love was unpredictable. Unpredictable as other cats were. Just like how emotions were. Just like how everything was. Two moons in a row he had got himself injured. Though the first moon he was lucky to not obtain any scared. The second moon? Not so lucky. Now he had stab wound in the middle of his back, and he flinched every time he was reminded of it.

He looked ugly. Hideous. A tragic. He didn’t want other cats to look at him when he was in this mood. He was suppose to be a confident, cocky, arrogant tom that knew he was handsome and, at times, obnoxious. But...he wasn’t. It dawned on him that he wanted to hide from the world. He wanted to protect himself from ever feeling such a way again. It was never a good feeling. And, it made him shudder. Why all of a sudden he felt insecure about himself?

Those scars...they would be with him for the rest of his life. The tom blinked his eyes, and he turned his head to look once more back at Asterpaw. ‘’Even though I’m letting you go, my paws will always be open whenever you’re ready to return.’’ Azulpaw felt like he was leaving a beautiful home and venturing out on his own as he said this to her. Everyone that lived in a clan, noticed that Skyclan was their home. Azulpaw never felt this. Whenever he was near the paws that cared for him, that loved him, he felt like he was at home. It was the greatest feeling ever. But, now he was a rogue. He just lost his home. He walked away from it, and allowed her to be free. Hopefully, she’ll be a new shelter to sad paws that will need her.

Ever since she was a kit, Asterpaw had heard cats saying 'If you love someone, you let them go.' Did she believe that? Well, it depended on what the definition of letting go was. Leaving them to fend for themselves, on their own-- no. But letting them do as they wished? Perhaps. Depending on what that thing was. Or, leaving for a little while and knowing you would return when things were better... that was also possible. Asterpaw wasn't quite sure whether she wanted to be let go or not. "M-maybe... but is that the answer? If I go... or if you let me go... is that going to stop all this?" She was used to fending for herself, she had done so for a while... without other cats. Except in the past couple of moons, what with Bluepaw always doting on her, she hadn't been able to really get away. Does he actually love me? She thought-- meaning Bluepaw-- as she struggled to her paws. Her one leg hurt, of course-- but she let it be. Not moving it would only make it stiffen up and then it might end up being useless, which was the last thing the feline wanted.
　
She was... scared. Really and truly scared. Not only of the future, which was so uncertain she wasn't sure whether to scream or worry until she faded away, but also of the past. The past had so much effect over the future. So much power. Look at all the ways the past had effected the things they did now. Such as the Warrior Code-- it hadn't been there originally! And now? Asterpaw was scared that she might end up breaking it one day, whether for her own good or the good of someone else. Something that she really didn't want to do, considering she'd broken it enough as a kit. Now was her time to grow up. Everything wasn't about her... or her sister, no matter what the cat she used to think was so fluff-brained thought. It had used to be her. Protecting her sister. Just a couple of moons ago, it might have been her who was trying to hurt Azulpaw for doing something to Alabasterpaw. But instead, it was Alabasterpaw... and she still didn't understand what was going on.
　
Was her sister just a pawn? Was Bluepaw the one behind all of this, and Alabasterpaw carrying out his bloody orders? That was surprising. She thought her sister hated to get dirty. But, she supposed anyone could change. Even the feline who used to shriek at her if even the tiniest bit of dust got on her pelt. And now? Now she had blood on her claws, that triumphant expression... Asterpaw shook her head. No. She didn't know whether seperating herself from Azulpaw was the answer to this. Apparently killing herself-- or having someone else do it-- wasn't the answer here. But... was leaving? If she were to walk away right here, right now, and he let her... was that going to keep the vultures from swooping in and finishing him off? She knew if a rogue-- there were sometimes a few hanging around-- were to come by, he wouldn't stand a chance. He'd be dead within a minute, no questions asked, and his body would probably be thrown in the bushes somewhere.
　
Either that or mangled up and left as a warning. The thought of that had her pinning her ears back. Why, oh why didn't she have the ability to stop all of this? Why couldn't she have the power to just take all of this away and make it so that he would be able to survive. He'd been through a lot, but... Asterpaw got the uneasy feeling that there was always going to be more. No one was going to let him live in peace. Before now, Asterpaw had always thought of SkyClan as a safe place. But now? It seemed there were hidden traitors, hidden demons everywhere. And she didn't know how to get rid of them. When she was a kit, she was always terrified of thunder. Now? She disliked it, yes, but she wasn't truly terrified of it. Her Mom used to tell her to close her eyes and go to sleep, and when she woke up it would be gone. If I do that now, will that be true? She thought. When she was younger, her Mom had always been right about that. Asterpaw remembered thinking her Mom had powers, and that she was magical.
　
She remembered being scared of offending her because she thought that her Mom might strike her down with her magical powers. The memory brought a smile to Asterpaw's face, but it wasn't one that could help them at the moment. No, they needed a plan. But right now? He was right, maybe she shouldn't be thinking about that. She wished she could say they had some sort of a future. Whether as friends, or even just knowing each other. But at the rate things were escalating? She doubted he would ever get to see the day they would become warriors. And, even if he did... would they let him live to celebrate it? She knew that her sister fought dirty. Using her like that had not been fair at all. And, she also seemed to rejoice in others' pain. Asterpaw didn't understand that at all... or maybe she was just choosing not to. Either way, she couldn't see how her sister would enjoy seeing others in pain so much. It ripped her heart in half, and she thought about digging her claws into her leg again-- then thought better of it.
　
It distracted her from the present. It put her in another world. A world where she was the only one there, and there was no confusion. Everything was clear to her. She liked going to that world... the only problem was, things were more painful. A lot, lot more painful. Sighing, Asterpaw felt like curling up in a ball and shutting the world out as she normally did when things got complicated. I wish we could start over. If they could, there were a lot of things she would do differently. Like keeping a close eye on Alabasterpaw. Like never putting on that act with Bluepaw. Like making sure that he wasn't hurt. Like being more careful when Alabasterpaw had knocked her out. Like just forcing her sister to kill her. Like staying with him, even when he told her to go. All of those things, and there were probably more. But those were the key points that she would change. The past might not be able to be changed, and because it effected the future so strongly? The future was going to be messed up.
　
More messed up then Asterpaw wanted to admit. A slight shudder went down her spine, but she brushed it aside as nothing. There was nothing wrong with her. The blood left on her leg had already caked it and given it a slightly rusted look. Not one that Asterpaw particuarly appreciated, but one that at least meant it was going to heal. She could practically hear the whispers now, though she tried to shut them out of her mind the best she could. Gossip had never been a part of Asterpaw's life that she liked. It was rude, and disgusting... who cared what was going on in so-and-so's lives? Unless they were your friends, and they had told you it themselves... or their lives were in danger... it didn't matter. You had no right to spread the news around, all over the Clan to the individual groups of friends that hung around all the time. To the cats who were more suspicious looking and appeared as though they wouldn't have a single good thing to say, and to the more friendly looking ones.
　
Though it didn't make much difference to Asterpaw. She didn't really talk to much of either group. She had her own friends, that was good enough for her. And she loved her friends... they were special, unique in their own ways. The she cat lifted her head at his next words and looked at him. Thoughts ran through her head, some along the lines of-- 'no, please don't' and some 'okay. Just be safe.' But most of all, she was wondering why. Why, all of a sudden, did he seem as though he were content to let her go? Whatever had happened... and by now Asterpaw was beginning to put the pieces together, and her expression flickered with anger as she realized what he must have done... she didn't know whether he was being serious or if he was 'testing' her again. Was this the part where she walked away? Or the part where she swore loyalty, allegiance... whatever it might be called to the other tom? Or perhaps she was supposed to just sit there and stare.
　
A lot of possibilities. Some she liked better then others. Perhaps she should just sit here for the moment being. But, after a few seconds of silence and the uncomfortable shuffling movements of her paws, Asterpaw sighed and lowered her gaze. "Thank you. But... don't let go just yet." Maybe she wanted the comfort of knowing that he was there. Maybe she just wanted someone to be holding on to her. Perhaps she wanted a friend there at the moment. Maybe she just wasn't ready to be let go of, to be given a freedom that she hadn't really had before. And even if Azulpaw let her go-- Bluepaw wouldn't. That much, she was certain of. But what he was planning, she either really didn't know or didn't care to know. The options were clear-- she was either avoiding the truth or looking for it in places that she knew it wouldn't be. Unnatural, but not unheard of. The tip of her tail twitched uncomfortably. Her hues scanned the area, looking around for any signs of the two conniving felines.
　
They could be anywhere by now. They could be plotting another attack, or lying low for the moment. And, either way? Asterpaw didn't like it. She was beginning to get the feeling that she was either being watched, or kept under control... both of which put a sinking feeling in her stomach. And, both of which seemed to give her a certain amount of dread. Slowly, carefully, she made her way over to the tom, half-limping. And, she sat there beside him. More then anything, Asterpaw wished that this would end soon. That this would end and they could go back to normal. In a half teasing tone of voice, she asked: "So, I never got to know what kind of flowers you like. Want to tell me that now?" There was a certain amount of lightness to her tone that made it sound as though flowers were the last thing on her mind, but like this was a joke she was very much enjoying. Asterpaw loved to play around with the tom. It was almost like she had another brother, but... different.
　
And, if anyone had asked her how it was different, she wouldn't have been able to answer. To her, it just felt that way. As though Azulpaw was both her brother and the best friend she had ever had. Which, while both were possible... there was a difference between the type of feeling for a brother/best friend and a true best friend. She'd thought Alabasterpaw was. Now? She was quickly changing her mind, believing that Azulpaw was one of the best friends she would ever have.

[seasalt]

Originally Posted by turtle

Sensing something was off about the molly she took a seat in front of her lowering her head slightly. "Are you sure? Is there anything I can do to help? I think we'll be stuck out here for a little while... or I will anyways". She said, her voice was a more calm and quiet tone nothing seemed to make it more uneasy to hear. She knew that if the molly was telling the truth she might as well continue to talk in a more friendly tone seeing as no reason to be rude by any means. She studied the soaked molly through what little light that was shown through the loud flashing and banging noises that ranged in the sky. She had seen her around the camp before but she never had a need to go up to them as the older cat had their own duties to attend then. Ears twitching she cleared her throat slightly as she began a small introduction, she wasn't entirely sure what the molly's knowledge she may posses so she deiced to clarify with herself anyways. "The names Olivepaw, and who may you be....? If I can know of course" She asked closing her eyes as she dipped her head in a more polite greeting. The worse she could possibly want is to offend this stranger let alone scare them off. As they seem to be in the worse of state currently. "Are.. these memories bad? You don't have to say anything to that of course you have your right to your privacy." She mumbled flattening her ears to her damp fur.

@turtle
She lifted her head to look at the apprentice, trying to give a reassuring look to the molly. "I'm sure I'm fine, and..theirs nothing you can do to change your past..." Owlwing replied, her tail tip twitching slightly as she spoke. The past, something Owlwing hated to talk about, and she didn't enjoy her past all that well, it had too many bad memories and Owlwing usually avoided them, and that was what she was trying to do, during this storm. Lightning flashed, and the white tabby flinched slightly at the rumble of thunder, a very unpleasant memory threatening to appear in her mind, she shook her head a bit, trying to keep herself from reminding herself of its existence. Closing her eyes shut for a moment, Owlwing opened them back when the molly introduced herself. Olivepaw hmm? An apprentice, she should be worrying about her training, not about my...personal problems... "You may, its Owlwing.." The Egyptian Mau introduced herself, a more calmer tone, but cautious one.
Thunder boomed, and lightning flashed again, more used to the storm, Owlwing didn't really flinch as bad as before, but she still did flinch. At least its not as bad as that one day... She hated thunderstorms, and she was scared of them too, as you must know. The molly's tail twitched, turned to look at the apprentice. "Yes, they very much are." The tabby gave a sigh, curling her tail around her paws. "Its a memory, I don't like talking about, and I don't want to talk about it, at all... It's not really something you should be worrying about, its me who should...get over it...as it were..."

[Brilliance]

Originally Posted by Lonestar23

Ever since she was a kit, Asterpaw had heard cats saying 'If you love someone, you let them go.' Did she believe that? Well, it depended on what the definition of letting go was. Leaving them to fend for themselves, on their own-- no. But letting them do as they wished? Perhaps. Depending on what that thing was. Or, leaving for a little while and knowing you would return when things were better... that was also possible. Asterpaw wasn't quite sure whether she wanted to be let go or not. "M-maybe... but is that the answer? If I go... or if you let me go... is that going to stop all this?" She was used to fending for herself, she had done so for a while... without other cats. Except in the past couple of moons, what with Bluepaw always doting on her, she hadn't been able to really get away. Does he actually love me? She thought-- meaning Bluepaw-- as she struggled to her paws. Her one leg hurt, of course-- but she let it be. Not moving it would only make it stiffen up and then it might end up being useless, which was the last thing the feline wanted.
　
She was... scared. Really and truly scared. Not only of the future, which was so uncertain she wasn't sure whether to scream or worry until she faded away, but also of the past. The past had so much effect over the future. So much power. Look at all the ways the past had effected the things they did now. Such as the Warrior Code-- it hadn't been there originally! And now? Asterpaw was scared that she might end up breaking it one day, whether for her own good or the good of someone else. Something that she really didn't want to do, considering she'd broken it enough as a kit. Now was her time to grow up. Everything wasn't about her... or her sister, no matter what the cat she used to think was so fluff-brained thought. It had used to be her. Protecting her sister. Just a couple of moons ago, it might have been her who was trying to hurt Azulpaw for doing something to Alabasterpaw. But instead, it was Alabasterpaw... and she still didn't understand what was going on.
　
Was her sister just a pawn? Was Bluepaw the one behind all of this, and Alabasterpaw carrying out his bloody orders? That was surprising. She thought her sister hated to get dirty. But, she supposed anyone could change. Even the feline who used to shriek at her if even the tiniest bit of dust got on her pelt. And now? Now she had blood on her claws, that triumphant expression... Asterpaw shook her head. No. She didn't know whether seperating herself from Azulpaw was the answer to this. Apparently killing herself-- or having someone else do it-- wasn't the answer here. But... was leaving? If she were to walk away right here, right now, and he let her... was that going to keep the vultures from swooping in and finishing him off? She knew if a rogue-- there were sometimes a few hanging around-- were to come by, he wouldn't stand a chance. He'd be dead within a minute, no questions asked, and his body would probably be thrown in the bushes somewhere.
　
Either that or mangled up and left as a warning. The thought of that had her pinning her ears back. Why, oh why didn't she have the ability to stop all of this? Why couldn't she have the power to just take all of this away and make it so that he would be able to survive. He'd been through a lot, but... Asterpaw got the uneasy feeling that there was always going to be more. No one was going to let him live in peace. Before now, Asterpaw had always thought of SkyClan as a safe place. But now? It seemed there were hidden traitors, hidden demons everywhere. And she didn't know how to get rid of them. When she was a kit, she was always terrified of thunder. Now? She disliked it, yes, but she wasn't truly terrified of it. Her Mom used to tell her to close her eyes and go to sleep, and when she woke up it would be gone. If I do that now, will that be true? She thought. When she was younger, her Mom had always been right about that. Asterpaw remembered thinking her Mom had powers, and that she was magical.
　
She remembered being scared of offending her because she thought that her Mom might strike her down with her magical powers. The memory brought a smile to Asterpaw's face, but it wasn't one that could help them at the moment. No, they needed a plan. But right now? He was right, maybe she shouldn't be thinking about that. She wished she could say they had some sort of a future. Whether as friends, or even just knowing each other. But at the rate things were escalating? She doubted he would ever get to see the day they would become warriors. And, even if he did... would they let him live to celebrate it? She knew that her sister fought dirty. Using her like that had not been fair at all. And, she also seemed to rejoice in others' pain. Asterpaw didn't understand that at all... or maybe she was just choosing not to. Either way, she couldn't see how her sister would enjoy seeing others in pain so much. It ripped her heart in half, and she thought about digging her claws into her leg again-- then thought better of it.
　
It distracted her from the present. It put her in another world. A world where she was the only one there, and there was no confusion. Everything was clear to her. She liked going to that world... the only problem was, things were more painful. A lot, lot more painful. Sighing, Asterpaw felt like curling up in a ball and shutting the world out as she normally did when things got complicated. I wish we could start over. If they could, there were a lot of things she would do differently. Like keeping a close eye on Alabasterpaw. Like never putting on that act with Bluepaw. Like making sure that he wasn't hurt. Like being more careful when Alabasterpaw had knocked her out. Like just forcing her sister to kill her. Like staying with him, even when he told her to go. All of those things, and there were probably more. But those were the key points that she would change. The past might not be able to be changed, and because it effected the future so strongly? The future was going to be messed up.
　
More messed up then Asterpaw wanted to admit. A slight shudder went down her spine, but she brushed it aside as nothing. There was nothing wrong with her. The blood left on her leg had already caked it and given it a slightly rusted look. Not one that Asterpaw particuarly appreciated, but one that at least meant it was going to heal. She could practically hear the whispers now, though she tried to shut them out of her mind the best she could. Gossip had never been a part of Asterpaw's life that she liked. It was rude, and disgusting... who cared what was going on in so-and-so's lives? Unless they were your friends, and they had told you it themselves... or their lives were in danger... it didn't matter. You had no right to spread the news around, all over the Clan to the individual groups of friends that hung around all the time. To the cats who were more suspicious looking and appeared as though they wouldn't have a single good thing to say, and to the more friendly looking ones.
　
Though it didn't make much difference to Asterpaw. She didn't really talk to much of either group. She had her own friends, that was good enough for her. And she loved her friends... they were special, unique in their own ways. The she cat lifted her head at his next words and looked at him. Thoughts ran through her head, some along the lines of-- 'no, please don't' and some 'okay. Just be safe.' But most of all, she was wondering why. Why, all of a sudden, did he seem as though he were content to let her go? Whatever had happened... and by now Asterpaw was beginning to put the pieces together, and her expression flickered with anger as she realized what he must have done... she didn't know whether he was being serious or if he was 'testing' her again. Was this the part where she walked away? Or the part where she swore loyalty, allegiance... whatever it might be called to the other tom? Or perhaps she was supposed to just sit there and stare.
　
A lot of possibilities. Some she liked better then others. Perhaps she should just sit here for the moment being. But, after a few seconds of silence and the uncomfortable shuffling movements of her paws, Asterpaw sighed and lowered her gaze. "Thank you. But... don't let go just yet." Maybe she wanted the comfort of knowing that he was there. Maybe she just wanted someone to be holding on to her. Perhaps she wanted a friend there at the moment. Maybe she just wasn't ready to be let go of, to be given a freedom that she hadn't really had before. And even if Azulpaw let her go-- Bluepaw wouldn't. That much, she was certain of. But what he was planning, she either really didn't know or didn't care to know. The options were clear-- she was either avoiding the truth or looking for it in places that she knew it wouldn't be. Unnatural, but not unheard of. The tip of her tail twitched uncomfortably. Her hues scanned the area, looking around for any signs of the two conniving felines.
　
They could be anywhere by now. They could be plotting another attack, or lying low for the moment. And, either way? Asterpaw didn't like it. She was beginning to get the feeling that she was either being watched, or kept under control... both of which put a sinking feeling in her stomach. And, both of which seemed to give her a certain amount of dread. Slowly, carefully, she made her way over to the tom, half-limping. And, she sat there beside him. More then anything, Asterpaw wished that this would end soon. That this would end and they could go back to normal. In a half teasing tone of voice, she asked: "So, I never got to know what kind of flowers you like. Want to tell me that now?" There was a certain amount of lightness to her tone that made it sound as though flowers were the last thing on her mind, but like this was a joke she was very much enjoying. Asterpaw loved to play around with the tom. It was almost like she had another brother, but... different.
　
And, if anyone had asked her how it was different, she wouldn't have been able to answer. To her, it just felt that way. As though Azulpaw was both her brother and the best friend she had ever had. Which, while both were possible... there was a difference between the type of feeling for a brother/best friend and a true best friend. She'd thought Alabasterpaw was. Now? She was quickly changing her mind, believing that Azulpaw was one of the best friends she would ever have.

Azulpaw didn’t have an exact answer right away. He didn’t even try to think about it. The answer seemed to be right in front of them. Lingering around, hiding around every corner, only every corner was transparent, so the answer was in front of their face. The grey tom believed that if the two stopped seeing each other, everything would be at peace. She would be safe. Not to mention, happy. He would be safe. Maybe not as happy, considering he lost a good friend. Above all, the tom did not know if it would exactly stop the problem. Possibly, it wouldn’t, but at least she wouldn’t get attached in case something did happen. Something drastic happened to him. That wouldn’t be good, now would it? Azulpaw did not want Asterpaw to go through life feeling sad all the time. Feeling as if the world depended heavily on her. Like she could solve every problem.

No.

He wanted Asterpaw to go through life being happy-go-lucky. Being an apprentice. Being a kit who just wanted to have fun. He did not want her to embrace the worries in the world, knowing it was easy to stress many out. The tom himself was stressed to the point where he was ready to give up. He felt that he was growing too fast, not embracing his apprenticehood. Before he knows it, more moons would past and he would be a full time warrior. His heart would lose the love it gave after a while. His wisdom would start sinking, vanishing into the ground. What if that happened to Asterpaw? The tom knew he didn’t want that. It was too...much. Even for her to handle. And, looking down at her caked paw, he saw that she would crumble under the stress, and ultimately end herself.

He stiffened at her question, and for a while he didn’t say anything. He allowed it to linger into the air until the wind blew it away. False hope was something he didn’t want her ears to hear. He didn’t want Asterpaw to grasp onto it, believing that nothing would happen if they chose to end what they most desired: A friendship. What was so wrong about what they were seeking? To Azulpaw it wasn’t going against the warrior code. They were both affiliated in the same clan, so what was the problem? Ah, yes, Bluepaw’s self-proclaimed affections for the blue cat. That was the problem. Azulpaw understood, and if he weren’t so beaten up, he would had the desire to fight for her affections, but he gave up. There was nothing more he could do. He practically died twice for her because she was one of his greatest friends. That was enough for him. He didn’t feel like competing with anyone for her attention.

Why did he have to? If he was someone important to her, he didn’t have to fight for her affections. It worked vice versa. The she-cat shouldn’t have to fight for his attention as well if he found her important. It was nice that Asterpaw and himself worked hand in hand. He was happy that she was someone he could joke around with, tease, play with. Only, he couldn’t allow himself to do much of it anymore. Specifically, to keep them both safe. As his eyes fell upon the blue she-cat he couldn’t help, but smile. Smile at her because she was the only good thing that made him happy.

Well, her, and how dare he forget, little Silverpaw. The sweetheart of a gem that seemed to make everyone happy. They were both great friends of his, and even though he lost his greatest friend. The best company. Bluepaw. The tom’s heart was quickly patched up by the silver bengal and the blue feline. Once again, the tom thought how funny it was that everything turned upside down. That everything changed.

For the better..or for the worse?

The tom seen the anger in her eyes. The hesitation of leaving. He didn’t understand at first until it clicked that she thought it might be another one of his tests. Confusing, wasn’t he? Misunderstanding was what he played off of. He also didn’t answer on this. From what he said, was the truth. He hadn’t asked her to walk away. In all truth, he would had been the first to walk away if they were to follow through with it. The tom was ready to drag himself away, flickering his ears just in case she changed her mind and called him back. Only, she wasn’t allowed to call his name back. Only he wasn’t allowed to drag himself back. At her next words, he tilted his head, staring at her.

But... don't let go just yet.

So, he stayed planted to his spot, looking around the area. Words seemed foreign to him at the moment, for he didn’t know what to say. He was ready to respond with something witty; Ah, I know you’ll miss me and all, I’m quite irresistible. Or; if you allow me to stay much longer, you have to promise yourself to not get attach. He didn’t voice his thoughts, however. In such a serious, sad moment, why would he? He was already regretting a lot of his decisions in the past. As of now, the tom was debating if she were one of them.

Asterpaw did not want him to leave just yet. So, when was she ready for him to leave? When was she ready to let go? He was positive that she would still have Bluepaw and come to love him if she allowed herself to do so. For him? He would have Silverpaw. He was quite afraid if the silver bengal developed a closer relationship with another tom friend and decided to dump him in the process as well. As he looked away, he had to keep remind himself that cats left. They left, and new ones enter their lives. Only, he didn’t want the ones he loved to leave him. Azulpaw was scared to be alone. For such an aggressive kitty, he allowed his guard to be down whenever he was with others that he truly cared about.

Asterpaw was a witnessed to this. She was experiencing this. And, he the same for her. He could tell that she allowed her guard to be down around him. To show him a sweet, loving, young girl that was strong, and possibly needed to find a steady path in life. Wherever she ended up, the tom only prayed that starclan follow her ways and bless her in more ways than one. Sure, they were dead cats, but to Azulpaw they were powerful as well.

The grey tom looked with a sad expression when Asterpaw limped her way to him. She was ever supposed to feel pain. She was never supposed to go through with what he was going through. He knew that she was hurting herself. Only, she wasn’t. He was hurting her. He allowed himself to destroy himself, leaving her desperate in the need of longing, and failure. So, far the tom knew he failed Asterpaw...yet, she didn’t want him to leave as of the moment. When was the right time to leave? When was it the right time to let him go before he became clingy and refused to let her go? Woah...clingy? That did not sound like him. That was Bluepaw’s forte, not his. The grey tom would never find himself becoming clingy to anywhere. Sure, he would care alot for them, but clingyness? No. Not his specialty.

At her words though, he gave a soft smile, and looked above, thinking on the answer. He wasn’t a flower’s guy, but he did find them pretty to look at. There were many of them that he liked, but could never name one of his favorites. Though, he knew exactly which ones that would never tire him out, and looking at her, he answered, ‘’I think Asters are beautiful.’’ It was simple response, but because he wanted some lightweight humor, he decided to play along. It was nice to not talk about emotions or the future. The future was a scary thing. An inevitable thing. Some were better than others. He did hoped that Asterpaw’s was better than his ending. The tom knew he wouldn’t have a future. He doubt he would make it past his warrior ceremony. And, truthfully? He seem to not mind wanting to join starclan. ‘’So are chrysanthemums, roses, tulips, and umm...umm...any type of wildflower really, but you know what else?’’ He leaned in close to her, his voice lowering as if he were telling her a secret. ‘’If there were flowers known as Azuls then those would be the most incredible of them all!’’ He chuckled, feeling a slight sense of pride in him.

Slowly, he began to come back to his old self, and he was happy that they were alone. This way they could joke and play, and not worry about anyone wanting to murder or separate them. Separation was inevitable between them. Once they drifted apart, Bluepaw and Alabasterpaw wouldn’t have to worry about anything. The tom only hoped that he could get his time with her now before he was called to come home to the above. Oh why, oh why had the tom had to think about death often?

Come to my funeral?

Please bring flowers.

What are your favorites?

As the grey tom stared at Asterpaw, he felt the rush of memories between them. It wasn’t sad, it kind of made him want to laugh. The words they threw around for humor took on a dark turn and became a reality. Wow. Such sadness. Who would had known? Azulpaw thought that if he ever lived to become a senior, he would had loved to tell the story to the future kits about what he endured, and what he survived. Maybe it would amaze them, teach them a lesson, or they would find it boring, and thus, leave him alone.

Breathing in deeply, the tom playfully states, ‘’Not trying to brag or anything, but it’s a proven fact that I am the best at everything I do. I don’t know why, but it seems like I’m popular! I mean, everyone wants to take a gander at me; your sister, my best friend, your kit-hood friend! I feel the love being thrown around.’’ He smiled brightly, not a hint of sarcasm in his tone. Which should had been sarcasm, but the tom was tired, and he was happy to finally be able to joke around without being severely punished or pounced on. ‘’Bet you can’t reach my level.’’

A good. And, cautious one.

Originally Posted by BluBunny

Mousefur smiled sleepily, he was enjoying this night so much and hoped they would do it again soon. His heart raced as she scooted closer to him, Mousefur let out another one of his strange, lovable purrs. He closed his eyes as she licked his cheek and wrapped himself around Cloudriver. He soon began to fall asleep, with a light smile on his face.

{So freaking cute}

{Hehe, they are!!!}

Cloudriver giggled lightly as she heard her mute friend. She was quite used to his strange sounds, and they didn't bother as much to her as they used to. She gradually accepted them as apart of his life and she loved him for it. As she stared at the stars, she felt the tom wrap around her, and she allowed herself to snuggle deeper into him. His warmth was making her sleepy, but she didn't want to sleep just yet. She wanted to continue to watch the amazing sky. The sky was beautiful. Like every night, but as she wrapped herself around the tom, she felt a heavy exhaustion wash over her, and she buried her head into the crook of his neck, purring before she eventually closed her eyes to sleep.

[BluBunnie]

Originally Posted by Noire

{Hehe, they are!!!}

Cloudriver giggled lightly as she heard her mute friend. She was quite used to his strange sounds, and they didn't bother as much to her as they used to. She gradually accepted them as apart of his life and she loved him for it. As she stared at the stars, she felt the tom wrap around her, and she allowed herself to snuggle deeper into him. His warmth was making her sleepy, but she didn't want to sleep just yet. She wanted to continue to watch the amazing sky. The sky was beautiful. Like every night, but as she wrapped herself around the tom, she felt a heavy exhaustion wash over her, and she buried her head into the crook of his neck, purring before she eventually closed her eyes to sleep.

(Timeskippppp??)

[Brilliance]

Originally Posted by BluBunny

(Timeskippppp??)

{Yesssss, I'll start}

Cloudriver fluttered her eyes open, entangled in the tom next to her. She had a good dream last night since she was cuddling someone that she loved dearly. It wasn't her brother, but it was her dear friend. As she opened her eyes, she was buried in his fur, and the she-cat chuckled. She gave him a soft lick to the cheek to wake him up so that they could start the day.