Originally Posted by Sneakyfox55 (Post 570043) Darkpaw blinked. "Sorry, but you're not an apprentice yet. You can't," she meowed, almost absentmindedly.

Originally Posted by Silverkit~ (Post 570054) Awwww" she said.

Originally Posted by Dipper (Post 569550) "I believe I could handle that and would be honored to," Rabbitfluff meowed, trying to disguise the edge from his voice that was a result of lingering nervousness, the perhaps irrational fear that Grousestar would have preferred to split the meager piece of prey with another clanmate. The thought had him shuddering in displeasure, but it wasn't one he wanted to linger on for long considering its lack of reality, and besides, he just wanted to enjoy this meal with his friend. It was only after the string of thoughts that he realized the response had been rather stiff for Grousestar's standards, and he gave him a quizzical look before dropping the suspicion under the pretense that he'd soon divulge his concerns anyway. It was a relief when Grousestar didn't back away from him, scold him for trying, or otherwise meet the attempt of grooming him with hostility; he hadn't been sure how it would go, given the unusual burst of anger a while ago... even if that had happened, Rabbitfluff would've been forgiving. It was the stress, it was the sickness, the Clans battling it out with each other. There was tons of pressure floating around and everything was undoubtedly worse for the leaders, he was certain of it. Flicking an ear to indicate he'd heard his half-hearted protest, Rabbitfluff continued and only when he reached a spot to pause did he reply, "I'm not sure if you realize this, as your mind has undoubtedly been on many important matters recently, but Grousestar- I do happen to be a warrior capable of making my own decisions, and I'm choosing to do this. Not only is it rather relaxing," something he didn't get to do often aside from with his own perfectly-groomed pelt, "but you are a dear companion of mine. Therefore I'd like to, if you'll continue to allow me." Resuming the soothing licks as he smoothed down the fur, Rabbitfluff listened to Grousestar's concerns and processed them, a hum of consideration escaping. "I suppose that's natural-- feeling alone," he clarified, a sigh dragging from him. "I wish there were easier answers, but I can assure that if a cat thought they could be doing it better, your leadership would have been directly challenged by now. Nevertheless, I understand. It's been rough for SkyClan as of late, but I believe everyone retains confidence that you are the right leader to guide us through it."

"Honored to, huh?" There was a quiet exhale of laughter, as if the leader thought it was amusing that anyone would find honor in sharing the meal with him. And that was bitterly true. At this point in time, he wasn't sure if cats liked him or not, he felt he was losing his charismatic touch and his love for talking to others. Was he becoming an introvert now? No, not really, more of a recluse. And who knows how long he'd stay like this, or if he would. Maybe he'd make a rebound, or maybe he was permanently changed. Destined to remain in his den, scarcely leaving and wasting away in a cold darkness, alone.

Starclan, won't you just shut up. He thought angrily, trying to get rid of the inky black thoughts that plagued him. They stuck to him like oil, dragging him down, keeping him down, suffocating the cat he once was. It was as if his greasy, unwashed fur reflected that imagery. Perhaps by Rabbitfluff bathing him, it will actively help to wash away his negative thoughts. At least for the time being.

The tiniest flicker of a smile touched his muzzle as he heard the rather snarky remark of the warrior. That was more like Rabbitfluff, that was more like when moons before everything was fine and he was happy. His gaze would flicker down to his mouse, still not feeling much of an appetite, but at least he was beginning to feel some of his darker thoughts fade away. "You might not think it Rabbitfluff, but you are very kind, and very sweet. I.. Appreciate you being there for me. You might be the only one I can trust at this point." Some of the tension he was harboring began to release and he would let out a soft exhale.

As he listened to Rabbitfluff comment on his thoughts, he could feel more tension leaving his body. Even if the answer wasn't exactly what he wanted, it was better than what his thoughts were conjuring up. Flicking his ear, he debated telling his friend what he wanted to share. It was something he should share with Auroraflame instead and yet... He still felt he didn't trust her completely. Maybe it would be better just to tell the small tom instead.
"Rabbitfluff.. Promise.. Promise you won't tell anyone. Not yet. But... But I'm thinking maybe Skyclan should leave this place. These clans, they're not good for us. All they do is fight and bicker and drag us into senseless fights with senseless bloodshed. Skyclan has gained nothing by moving here and I think it's possibly even draining my health, it's changing me to be a cat I don't want to be..." His voice was hushed and his eyes were fixated on his paws.

Originally Posted by Blissy (Post 570053) "Yeah. There's not very many cats that can't use their back legs. Sometimes I feel like i don't belong.", she meowed. She stretched her front legs and lifted her front half up.