// @
Willowfern
They approached the stream. It was shallow enough that larger felines could still touch the bed while wading through the middle though younger apprentices would have to paddle the full way. Talonstone flicked his tail towards it.
"Enter the water," he commanded Pumpkinpaw.
"Experiment with how it flows, the drenched sand lying below. Tell me what you find." He stood back patiently, having done this twice before.
// @
Phoenix Fall
Had he said that he would give pointers later? If so, he rescinded his words. The warrior watched from his position, observing Larkpaw's strategy. The apprentice's enthusiasm amused him, made him feel lighter. Few felines enjoyed learning such unorthodox skills.
"Larkpaw," the shadowdweller called for his attention.
"Be sure that your claws are out fully. You feel the ridges in the bark of the tree—hook your claws into there. When scaling, only loosen one paw at a time; keep the other three locked in—that will assist with stability. Like walking, start with your forelegs. You cannot move if your hindlegs have nowhere to go."
Talonstone was tempted to demonstrate himself, but he didn't wish to ruin Larkpaw's concentration. Really, the tom was off to a good start, especially for one who'd never had formal climbing instruction before.