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Marigold and dock, Cloud Spots told the young kit. Are you giving him borage Pebble Heart asked. For his fever Thunder was surprised by the young cats knowledge. He hardly knew the names of any herbs; he had no idea which ones could cure infections. When had Pebble Heart learned all this I would, but theres not much on the moor. Its a forest herb and I cant gather herbs there now. Cloud Spots nodded at Frost. Do forest cats collect it for wounds Frost frowned. We dont collect herbs. Only prey. Cloud Spots blinked. But what if youre injured We either recover or Clear Sky banishes us, Frost muttered bitterly. Hes more interested in moving borders than protecting the cats who hunt and fight for him. He glanced at Thunder. Thunder stiffened. Was that reproach in his eyes Im not my father You seem busy, he meowed quickly to Cloud Spots. Ill go. He backed out of the gorse, ignoring Pebble Hearts curious stare. Outside, Turtle Tail was sunning herself beside the tunnel entrance while Owl Eyes clambered over her, meg happily. d Runner and Gorse Fur were sharing a thrush, lying languidly beside the flat rock. Thunder padded past them, dering whether to greet them. He glanced toward them, conscious that d Runner stopped purring as soon as she saw him. His throat tightened. He swallowed back hurt and took a deep breath. Ill prove myself to them. Ill protect them from Clear Sky. From any danger. Great attack, Sparrow Fur Jagged Peaks enthusiastic mew jerked him from his thoughts. The lame tom was urging Sparrow Fur on with a wave of his tail. Attack it again The body of a rabbit, its scent still warm, lay in the clearing. Sparrow Fur crouched a badger-length away, her short tail flicking. Her eyes were narrowed, focused on the prey. Owl Eyes watched beside Jagged Peak. Can I have the next turn Yes. Jagged Peaks eyes shone. Thunder padded closer. Was he teaching them hunting moves Sparrow Fur shot forward, hissing. She leaped and landed on the rabbit, her small claws sinking deep into its fur. Jabbing her teeth at the back of its limp neck, she growled as she tried to shake it between her jaws. Your aim is great Jagged Peak enthused. Perhaps you should try attacking me. Youll need to be ready to face an enemy who fights back. Thunders hackles rose. He was teaching the kits battle moves What are you doing He strode toward Jagged Peak. Jagged Peak jerked his gaze toward Thunder, his pelt bristling. What do you mean Why are you teaching them how to fight Werent they trying to avoid battle with Clear Sky Owl Eyes looked from Jagged Peak to Thunder, blinking with confusion. Whats wrong with that Jagged Peak ignored the kit. Its none of your business, Thunder Thunder flexed his claws. Ive lived with forest cats and moor cats. It is my business. I dont want to see you fight. Sparrow Fur leaped off the rabbit. But we have to learn. Thunder turned on her. Youre too young to fight battles She backed away, eyes wide. Dont take it out on the kits. Jagged Peak limped past him and stood in front of Sparrow Fur. Thunder forced his fur to lie flat. Im not taking it out on the kits, he growled softly. I just dont think you should be preparing such young cats for a battle that might never come. Jagged Peak glanced at the kits. Go and find Pebble Heart, he ordered. Play with him. Thunder and I want to talk. Owl Eyes frowned. You want to argue. Dont argue over us, Sparrow Fur pleaded. Thunder dipped his head, softening his gaze. We t, he promised. Do as Jagged Peak says. Shoulders drooping, she padded away. Owl Eyes followed. Thunder turned to Jagged Peak, surprised by the rage burning in the toms eyes. He hadnt meant to upset him. Im sorry I interfered, he meowed slowly. I just dont think we should beâ€” Jagged Peak stepped forward, curling his lip. Who cares what you think Ive lived more moons than you. I came from the mountains with your father. Thunder lifted his chin. That doesnt mean you know more than me. I was here when those kits were born But you left, didnt you I wanted to live with my father Thunder objected. Whats wrong with that Jagged Peak didnt seem to hear. Clear Sky didnt want you, did he Just like he didnt want me Triumph edged his mew. He kicked you out too Thunders claws itched. Clear Sky didnt kick me out, he growled. I left. Jagged Peak hesitated, grief flashing in his eyes. You left I dont agree with Clear Sky. Jagged Peaks gaze dropped suddenly. So Clear Sky didnt make you leave. Thunder shifted his paws impatiently. What did it matter whether hed left or been banished I came back to help my old friends And were supposed to be grateful Jagged Peak snorted.