warriors: the new prophecy

I really struggled with this series. Actually, I feel like the series is in two halves. The first half/three books, I felt, were really long and drawn out with nothing really happening to move the plot forward. It was a long journey to the lake and then a long journey back home with lots and lots of empty filler. I was starting to get worried that the first series was it and I wasn't going to enjoy another Warriors book ever again and that all subsequent novels were just riding on the coattails of success from the first series. The second half/three books, however, proved me wrong by actually being really good. Those books covered Brambleclaw's struggle with his relationship with his father, sister, and half brother. Moreover, it introduced the Place of No Stars/Dark Forest, which was a really interesting alternative to StarClan, as well as gave a fascinating, manipulative, and devious villain in the form of Hawkfrost, who I really enjoyed (and still believe he was lying about never having been to the Dark Forest before). I was disappointed by how quickly Hawkfrost was written off, however he did have a respectable story arc and I did get to see his return later on. Also, this book series as a whole gave Brambleclaw the opportunity to grow and become more then just Tigerstar's son - which was very obvious as the story went on but was very clear when he chose a dying Firestar over everything else. And, it set up a great twist for Ashfur later on. It also gave us perspective from the cats of other clans - which while I wasn't in love with this, it was good to see things from a point of view that wasn't ThunderClan.

Warriors: The New Prophecy

1. Midnight
2. Moonrise
3. Dawn
4. Starlight
5. Twilight
6. Sunset

starlight: part five

Brambleclaw is out on patrol with Spiderleg and Rainwhisker when he sees Mistyfoot rushing across ShadowClan territory. She sees Brambleclaw and runs toward him, calling out. She says she needs to see Firestar right away. Brambleclaw takes her right away. Mistyfoot tells Firestar there is trouble and he sends Brambleclaw to get Dustpelt and Brackenfur. When all the cats are assembled Mistyfoot tells Firestar how Hawkfrost has been meeting in secret with Mudclaw. She knew Hawkfrost was sneaking off but she assumed it was to see Brambleclaw. After investigating the island she realized the two cats met there frequently. That morning Hawkfrost offered to take the dawn patrol and with him he brought the cats most loyal to himself. They never returned and Mistyfoot tracked their scent into ShadowClan territory. Mistyfoot believes Hawkfrost is part of a plot to attack WindClan. Brackenfur realizes that with Onewhisker about to receive his nine lives Mudfur has no choice but to attack this night. Firestar asks her why she did not go to Leopardstar with this information and Mistyfoot responds that Leopardstar would just believe Mistyfoot to be making trouble for Hawkfrost - and she does not care what happens in WindClan anyway. Firestar calls a meeting to tell the cats that he is taking some warriors and Mistyfoot to WindClan to make sure everything is okay. He places Cloudtail and Brightheart in charge of the camp and sends a patrol to watch the ShadowClan border. Cinderpelt speaks up with Leafpool's prophecy. Brambleclaw is afriad to look at Squirrelflight fearing he will see contempt in her eyes, but when he does look he sees only pity.

Firestar's group reaches WindClan territory but they see no signs of an attack. Mistyfoot begs him to push forward but he tells her they must turn back before WindClan suspects them of attacking. Brambleclaw scents Hawkfrost and they hear fighting start. They race to the camp to see cats from WindClan, RiverClan, and ShadowClan attacking unsuspecting WindClan cats. A storm breaks out. They join the fight and are losing. Brambleclaw keeps trying to make it to Onewhisker to help him but there are too many enemy cats. Suddenly Squirrelflight with the rest of the patrol are there to help them and the tides turn. Brambleclaw feels the spark between him and Squirrelflight again as they fight together. Mudclaw takes off, followed by Hawkfrost and the enemy cats scatter. Brambleclaw sends Crowfeather off towards the fleeing ShadowClan cats as he chases after Mudclaw and Hawkfrost - wondering what he will do if he catches up to Hawkfrost.

Leafpool is above the camp on watch for intruders when two ShadowClan cats suddenly appear and knock into her before she can call out. The two ShadowClan cats tumble over the edge to their death. Leadpool clutches to the rock, desperately trying not to fall down to hers as well. Crowfeather arrives and looks at Leafpool in horror. He sees Feathertail's death all over again and after freezing for a moment saves Leafpool. Leafpool feels electricity between them, and tries to lighten things by commenting she must be the last cat he wishes to save. He responds that he loves her and sees her in his dreams - and that he is angry at himself for loving another cat so soon after Feathertail. Leafpool responds that he can't live her since she is a medicine cat, but privately she admits she is in love with him too. Cloudtail and Brightheart arrive and Crowfeather leaves.

Brambleclaw chases after the cats not knowing who he is chasing or who is following him. He reaches Mudclaw and they fight. He is losing until Hawkfrost saves him. Brambleclaw asks him why, when he helped Mudclaw attack the camp. Hawkfrost responds that just because he thought Onewhisker would not make a good leader did not mean that he would let Mudclaw kill his brother. He admits that when Mudclas came to him for help he believed he was doing the right thing - especially since Mudclaw promised to leave RiverClan in peace. Mudclaw retorts that Hawkfrost came to him, wanting to be his deputy and looking for Mudclaw's help in eventually taking over RiverClan. Both insist the other cat is a liar and Hawkfrost insists he only wants to follow the warrior code. Mudclaw takes off, Hawkfrost after him, and Brambleclaw realizes Squirrelflight was there and heard everything. She believes Mudclaw's version of events while Brambleclaw believes Hawkfrost's. Mudclaw and Hawkfrost fight on the island. Lightening hits a tree, which falls over on to Mudclaw, killing him. Hawkfrost brings his body back and throws himself on Onewhisker's mercy. He said he thought Mudclaw was the rightful leader but he now believes StarClan sent a sign in killing Mudclaw. Onewhisker turns to Firestar for help but Firestar shakes his head no. Onewhisker says he cannot fault Hawkfrost for his actions when he himself didn't believe he was supposed to be leader of WindClan. He forgives Hawkfrost and accepts his fate as clan leader. Brackenfur and Mistyfoot realize the fallen tree is now a bridge and the clans can now use the island for their Gatherings. Brambleclaw turns to Squirrelflight but she walks away. Brambleclaw is upset and wonders why she refuses to see anything but the worst in himself and his half brother.

So I am going to come right out and say I believe Mudclaw's version of events is true. I really feel that Hawkfrost is manipulating Brambleclaw - and that Brambleclaw is so afraid of Tigerstar's legacy that he is desperate to believe he and Hawkfrost are not evil. I also think things will ultimately come down to being between Brambleclaw and Hawkfrost - the prophecy says that "blood will spill blood." At first I thought that just meant blood would be spilled but the more I think on it I believe it means siblings will spill each other's blood.

As for Leafpool and Crowfeather, it looks like they are in love but I don't know what that means for their future - and that is Leafpool's exact thought too. At least Crowfeather's hostility is explained. It must be hard to fall in love with another cat while mourning the loss of his previous love. I have to say, while he picks nice cats why can't he pick one in his own clan?

I must say, I really enjoyed this book compared to the previous three and am really looking forward to the next two.

starlight: part four

The cats head out for the Gathering. Squirrelflight approachs Brambleclaw and tries to be friendly. Thinking of his dream, Brambleclaw tells her he didn't sleep well. Upset because she thinks he means he doesn't want to talk to her, she leaves him. Brambleclaw tries to call out to her but she ignores him. The cats cut through WindClan territory, meeting up with the rival clans warriors. They head to the Gathering together and as they pass the horse place by the field where they will gather they run into some loners who live there. At first both groups clash but they quickly realize they can live together in peace. The clans head on and meet with the others. It is an awkward meeting, as cats are unsure how warmly they should greet their friends now that they are no longer one clan. Brambleclaw runs into Hawkfrost and they talk. Hawkfrost points out how it is silly that the cats have to act like they are rivals now and Brambleclaw agrees. Talk turns to other topics, including Hawkfrost talking to Mudclaw about WindClan problems. As they talk Brambleclaw finds that he agrees with Hawkfrost on some things and he starts to privately question who would make a better leader - Onewhisker or Mudclaw? Hawkfrost tells Brambleclaw that Firestar should make him deputy, insisting that Graystripe is dead. Squirrelflight comes over looking for Brambleclaw and is upset to see him talking to Hawkfrost. She is rude to him and is clearly upset when she finds out they were talking about WindClan, and even more upset when Brambleclaw points out that there is nothing wrong with that. Mistyfoot calls Hawkfrost away, and as she does the badger he fought off is mentioned. Brambleclaw is shocked, since he heard about the badger from Hawkfrost in his dream, and realizes his dream must have been true. Squirrelflight is upset with Brambleclaw, demanding to know how he can talk to Hawkfrost and even take Hawkfrost's side. They get into another fight as Brambleclaw insists he was not taking anyone's side and just wants to get to know his brother better. Upset, Squirrelflight breaks up with him because she feels Hawkfrost is more important to Brambleclaw. Brambleclaw tries to tell her she is wrong but she walks away.

Leafpaw sits watching the cats, wishing to ask Crowfeather about Morningflower. Cinderpelt interrupts her thoughts to tell her that the medicine cats are going to meet after the Gathering. She also warns Leafpaw to be careful of her affections for Crowfeather. Leafpaw is shocked, insisting she would never feel anything for such a rude cat but Cinderpelt clearly does not believe her. Leafpaw can feel her sister is upset and goes over to her, asking what is wrong. Squirrelflight says that things are over between her and Brambleclaw because he won't listen to her about Hawkfrost. Leafpaw is upset and confused. She doesn't understand Squirrelflight's behavior and doesn't know how to help her fix a problem she has no experience with. Leafpaw tries to point out that it is normal for Brambleclaw to want to know his brother but Squirrelflight insists this isn't about blood, but trust. Suddenly the prophecy about blood echoes in her mind and she decides to ask Cinderpelt about it but the Gathering starts. The leaders discuss boundaries and Firestar gives the land back to Onewhisker. Leopardstar insists that where the Gathering is being held belongs to RiverClan and after some discussion agrees to let the clans use it for the next two moons - but she insists another place must be found. The Gathering breaks up and the medicine cats meet. They talk about looking for signs from StarClan and the need to find a new Moonstone. Mothwing suggests that maybe there isn't one and Barkface becomes upset with her, insisting there must be or the clans will have to move - and they will probably refuse to. As their meeting breaks up Mothwing confesses to Leafpaw that she does not believe in StarClan. Leafpaw is shocked - especially as Mothwing insists she can be a good medicine cat without her belief. Leafpaw speaks to her of signs and dreams but Mothwing feels it is all in everyone's head. Leafpaw asks her about the moth wing outside of Mudfur's den. Mothwing looks scared and starts to say something but Cinderpelt interrupts by calling Leafpaw away. Leafpaw leaves upset. Cinderpelt asks her what is wrong and Leafpaw insists she is fine - but Cinderpelt says she thinks Leafpaw is thinking of Crowfeather again. Leafpaw insists she is not but Cinderpelt does not believe her.

Over the next days Leafpaw looks everywhere for a sign from StarClan but none come. She and Cinderpelt start to make their den and one night while sleeping she dreams of Crowfeather. He is looking into a pool of stars, trying to find Feathertail. She tries to offer Crowfeather words of comfort but he is too upset. Spottedleaf comes and Leafpaw leaves with her. Spottedleaf takes off to show Leafpaw where she must go, but as she gives chase she loses her. When she wakes up she knows she must follow the path. She tries to leave camp but Sorreltail sees her. She explains how she must go and Sorreltail insists she is coming too. The two cats take off, following the path Leafpaw remembers from her dream. Eventually they reach the Moonpool, and Leafpaw sees all of StarClan waiting there for her. She speaks to Bluestar who tells her she must bring the cats here and to Feathertail (who walks with both StarClan and the Tribe of Endless Hunting) who asks her to pass a message on to Crowfeather to not be blind to the cats who are around him. Leafpaw notices that one cat is missing - Graystripe.

Brambleclaw is out on patrol with Dustpelt and Thornclaw. They find an abandoned twoleg nest that is full of prey. Back at camp be report to Firestar about it and then offers to go hunt. He asks Squirrelflight to go with him but she turns him down. Firestar tells him to go rest, saying he doesn't need one of his best warriors becoming sick with exhaustion. Thornclaw teases Brambleclaw about his quarrel with Squirrelflight but privately Brambleclaw thinks it is because every time Squirrelflight looks at him she sees Tigerstar. When he wakes up Leafpaw is telling Cinderpelt and Firestar about the Moonpool. Brambleclaw offers to go with Cinderpelt so she can report to ShadowClan and RiverClan. Leafpaw is going to go rest and then report to WindClan.

Leafpaw head out to WindClan after refusing an escort. Mudclaw finds her and is angry but when she says she is there to talk to Barkface he takes her to the camp. She reports to Barkface who tells Onewhisker the news. The next night the medicine cats will meet at the pool and the following night Barkface intends to take Onewhisker to receive his nine lives. Leafpaw notices that Onewhisker looks scared and is confused by his reaction. Onewhisker puts Barkface off, insisting it is not fair for the medicine cat to make the journey two days in a row so instead they will wait an extra night. Leafpaw watches as Mudclaw and Webfoot race off after this news. Crowfeather approaches her and Leafpaw passes on Feathertail's message but it doesn't comfort the warrior, it instead makes him angry as he insists he will never forget her. The medicine cats meet at the Moonpool and Leafpaw dreams of a lake full of blood. When she awakens she notices some of the other cats look upset too, and wonders if they too had the dream. Before they leave Cinderpelt makes Leafpaw a full medicine cat, naming her Leafpool. Leafpool is happy, but as the cats leave she feels as if she is wading through blood.

Ten bucks says Mothwing planted that moth wing. Somehow I am not surprised that she doesn't believe in StarClan - or that she would fake a sign in her favor. Every encounter with Mothwing I keep coming back to Leafpool's vision. Now I wonder if perhaps it does not mean Mothwing's death, but maybe her acceptance of StarClan. There is something wrong with her and her brother, I just wish I knew what, exactly.

I am glad that Leafpool has been made a full medicine cat but I worry for her future. Part of me was thinking that Cinderpelt was unfairly reading more into the situation with Crowfeather then there was, but now I am not so sure. Leafpool was in his dream and Feathertail sought her out and asked her to tell Crowfeather not to be blind to the cats around him - does those cats include Leafpool? And despite Leafpool and Crowfeather clashing she clearly feels something around him - and he must feel it too, for why else would he jump when they were taking care of Morningflower?

As for Mudclaw, I wonder if his running off is him trying to go to the Moonpool to try and get the nine lives before Onewhisker can?

starlight: part three

Leafpaw dreams of the island bathed in a silver light. She feels as if the island is calling to her but she feels as if she cannot go since not all cats can swim like RiverClan. She feels content even though she cannot feel her warrior ancestors. But as she looks at the lake she sees it slowly turn red and hears Yellowfang's prophecy about blood running before there is peace. Leafpaw awakes to Sorreltail calling for Cinderpelt. Leafpaw and Cinderpelt follow her to Mousefur, who is sick. Leafpaw tells Cinderpelt about the tainted water that Mothwing was giving out to cats. Cinderpelt sends Sorreltail off to check on Goldenflower and Longtail. Sorreltail reports that Longtail is asleep and that Goldenflower had felt sick but it passed. The cats sleep with Sorreltail staying with Mousefur in case she needs anything. The next morning Cinderpelt reports to Firestar what happened and asks him for a warrior to help her and Leafpaw - she wants to collect herbs and pass some on to WindClan. Firestar hesitates but agrees, causing Leafpaw to wonder if he feels it is too soon to start helping other clans. They check on the elders before they leave and Longtail admits that he felt the water smelt funny but he drank it anyway because a medicine cat had given it to him. He tells the cats that he had a bellyache but it passed. As they get ready to leave Leafpaw watches as Brambleclaw tries to speak to Squirrelflight but Ashfur interrupts. She sees Brambleclaw's frustration and knows something is wrong between him and her sister.

Thornclaw goes with Leafpaw and Cinderpelt. They find and harvest some water mint. Cinderpelt says she is going to bring some back to camp and asks Thornclaw to escort Leafpaw to WindClan territory. As they go they run into a WindClan patrol and argue over where the boundary line is - both clans insist the other is in their territory. However, despite the disagreement, both clans seem more embarrassed over the dispute then angry. When the WindClan warriors find out that Leafpaw is there to bring herbs to help their sick cats the border dispute is forgotten. The WindClan cats escort Leafpaw to their camp while Thornclaw takes Cinderpelt home. They bring Leafpaw right to Morningflower but before Leafpaw can help her a cat angrily asks her what she is doing.

Brambleclaw, Brackenfur, and Dustpelt are out patrolling the when they run into a ShadowClan patrol. The ShadowClan cats insist that the ThunderClan cats are on their territory and the ThunderClan cats insist they are not. A fight is about to break out when Firestar appears, furious with both groups of warriors. He tells his cats that if this is ShadowClan territory then they must hunt elsewhere. Brambleclaw is shocked and upset that Firestar is siding with the ShadowClan cats. He doesn't understand why Firestar would just hand over territory to a rival clan. As they move away from ShadowClan territory Firestar sends all of the cats on different errands - sending Brambleclaw to gather moss for the elders. Brambleclaw is angry and points out that that is an apprentices task. Firestar counters that all of the apprentices are busy. Brambleclaw angrily goes off to collect moss, not understanding why Firestar does not trust him and is angry with him for defending their territory. As he comes back to camp Squirrelflight calls out to him but he walks past her without answering.

Leafpaw is shocked to find Crowfeather challenging her. She explains about how she came to help the sick cats and Whitetail backs her but Crowfeather is unhappy. He watches her carefully and when Morningflower gets sick he accuses her of making the cat worse. Onewhisker orders Crowfeather to stop and instead of accusing Leafpaw to help her. As Crowfeather and Leafpaw help the sick cat their fur brushes against each other and Leafpaw feels as if her fur is tingling. Crowfeather jumps, having felt it as well. Barkface returns and tells Leafpaw she may go. Leafpaw pays her respects to Onewhisker who tells her that ThunderClan can have the disputed territory. Mudclaw is furious, feeling that Onewhisker is giving land away to Firestar because they are friends. Onewhisker asks Crowfeather to escort Leafpaw back - a decision neither cat is happy about. Crowfeather delivers Leafpaw, informs Firestar about Onewhisker's decision, and leaves as cold as ever. Firestar, Brambleclaw, Leafpaw, and Squirrelflight talk about the border disputes with ShadowClan and WindClan, causing Squirrelflight and Brambleclaw to exchange more angry words. Firestar looks worried for Brambleclaw and Squirrelflight confides in her sister that she thinks Brambleclaw doesn't love her anymore. Leafpaw doesn't know what to say and suddenly realizes she will never know a love like that. As she watches Dustpelt and Ferncloud with Birchkit she feels even worse.

Brambleclaw dreams of the old ThunderClan camp undestroyed. Tigerstar is in the center of the clearing. Brambleclaw approaches him, asking if StarClan sent him. Tigerstar says he does not hunt with StarClan, and there is more out there that StarClan does not even know about. Hawkfrost appears. Tigerstar converses with his sons, happy to see them and to meet Hawkfrost for the first time. He leaves but tells them that he will see them again. Brambleclaw awakens confused. He and Dustpelt pull together a group of cats to go hunting. As they leave Birchkit follows, begging his father to let him go as well. Dustpelt refuses and Birchkit decides to show off his hunting skills by catching a bird, but it is close to the cliff. Brambleclaw and Dustpelt dive after him and Brambleclaw catches him as Birchkit starts to fall. The cats go on to hunt in the land WindClan gave them. Back at camp Firestar holds a ceremony to make Spiderpaw a warrior and names him Spiderleg. He also does a ceremony for Mousefur to become an elder. Brambleclaw had tried to sit with Squirrelflight but she was with other cats. Felling upset he sits with Cloudtail during the ceremonies. After the ceremonies Firestar asks Brambleclaw not to hunt in the newly given territory. Brambleclaw is angry since he was deliberately avoiding ShadowClan and feels he can do nothing right. Firestar assures him he did nothing wrong, he just does not want him hunting there for now. As he leaves he tells Brambleclaw to rest since he will be going to the Gathering that night. Brambleclaw is excited at the prospect of seeing Hawkfrost.

First of all, of course the cats got sick. And then when Leafpaw went to WindClan camp of course Crowfeather was hostile - he doesn't know how to act any other way. But it looks like Leafpaw and Crowfeather might have a connection after all - and it seems to be pretty much unwanted on both of their parts. And I do feel for Leafpaw, who is suddenly confronted by a lack of possible love in her life. She does not know how to comfort her sister (who is acting like an idiot and needs to open up to Brambleclaw) and she feels the ache of the loss of an imaginary mate and kits. And her mixed up feelings for Crowfeather cannot be helping.

And Brambleclaw is even more touchy then usual. Like I said, I get having to answer to another cat again might chafe him but really, he spent all of these chapters angry about one thing after another - and feeling like he was constantly being judged. But, I will say, his dream was odd. I really do think Tigerstar and Hawkfrost were there. And if it wasn't for Hawkfrost saying this was the first time he met Tigerstar I would have suspected that they have been meeting in his dreams for quite a while. But I wonder if Tigerstar saw Hawkfrost's ambition and decided to help? I have a feeling he is manipulating both cats - Brambleclaw especially. After saying Brambleclaw could die for refusing to join him I cannot believe he suddenly likes his son that looks up to Firestar. I have a feeling that it is Hawkfrost Tigerstar cares about - and Brambleclaw is a means to an end to get Hawkfrost into power by preying on his sudden fears and paranoia.

starlight: part two

After listening to Brambleclaw's report, Leafpaw goes looking for Squirrelflight. Suddenly she feels a stabbing pain and knows that something is wrong with her sister. She finds Squirrelflight speaking to a group of cats about the camp she found so she cannot speak to her now. Cinderpelt calls to all of the cats to discuss where to hold the next Gathering. Mothwing excitedly describes the island but her idea is quickly shot down by the other clans. Hawkfrost interrupts to say that perhaps the island would make a good camp for RiverClan leading to a public argument between him and Mistyfoot, much to Leopardstar's horror and embarrassment. Leopardstar tells Hawkfrost he can take a patrol to the island and they will discuss the camp later. Leafpaw is shocked to see Hawkfrost so openly challenge Mistyfoot. Cinderpelt quickly turns talk back to the Gathering. Firestar suggests coming back to where they are now until a better place can be found and the other cats agree. The one clan starts to break up and become one. Leafpaw sees Crowfeather arguing with a WindClan elder named Rushtail. Crowfeather is trying to get him to move to the WindClan side of the clearing, and he is refusing. Leafpaw offers to help but Crowfeather tells her he does not need the help of a ThunderClan cat. Squirrelflight overhears this and tells Crowfeather to be nicer to her sister. Crowfeather apologizes, and the ThunderClan cats move on, Leafpaw wishing she could heal his broken heart somehow.

Brambleclaw tries to sleep without Squirrelflight beside him. Barkface wakes him, asking for Firestar, and Brambleclaw realizes that Tallstar must be close to dying. Brambleclaw gets Firestar while Barkface goes to find Onewhisker. They reach Tallstar and Brambleclaw tries to leave but Tallstar stops him. He thanks Firestar for everything that he has done for WindClan and then tells Firestar that Brambleclaw would make a worthy deputy. Firestar says nothing and Brambleclaw realizes he would like to be deputy and then leader one day. Tallstar asks for Onewhisker and Brambleclaw goes to find him. He finds Onewhisker heading back to camp with damp moss for Tallstar to drink. He brings Onewhisker before Tallstar who appoints him his new deputy, saying that peace is what is needed and Mudclaw will not bring that. Onewhisker is horrified and Brambleclaw is worried since the correct ceremony was not followed. Tallstar dies. Barkface arrives and Onewhisker tries to back out of Tallstar's dying wish. Barkface is surprised to hear what Tallstar did but both he and Firestar tell Onewhisker he must do as his leader wishes. Firestar and Onewhisker go to speak before the clans but before they can tell the cats exactly what happened Mudclaw angrily interrupts.

Brambleclaw watches as Firestar and Onewhisker finish telling the cats what happened when Tallstar died. Brambleclaw backs their story up but an angry Mudclaw is not interested - he sees only a ThunderClan conspiracy. He accuses the cats of lying but Crowfeather speaks up saying Brambleclaw would not lie about this and greets Onewhisker as Onestar. Some cats take up his cry but others are silent. Mudclaw challenges him to a fight for clan leader but Barkface steps in, saying that was never their way and Tallstar's choice must be accepted. Onewhisker tries to leave Mudclaw as deputy but Mudclaw refuses so he appoints Ashfoot. The gathering breaks up and Onewhisker wonders if he should travel back to Highstones to receive his lives but both Firestar and Ashfoot feel that is a bad choice. Firestar comes over to speak with Brambleclaw. He tells him that until he knows Graystripe is dead he cannot appoint another cat in his place. Brambleclaw feels a mixture of guilt and frustration because he wants to be deputy, and yet he feels that Tigerstar's shadow looms over himself. He wishes he had someone to confide his feelings in but he is fighting with Squirrelflight and he cannot confide in Tawnypelt.

Leafpaw is worrying about Onewhisker and Mudclaw, but Cinderpelt tells her to let it go for now. She tells her to help the elders with Mothwing but before she can Hawkfrost returns and calls a meeting. Both Leafpaw and Sorreltail question if this is appropriate behavior on his part. They listen as Hawkfrost speaks of his wonderful the island is and how it will be a perfect camp. Squirrelflight is upset and Leafpaw asks her what is wrong. Squirrelflight admits she does not trust Hawkfrost and Leafpaw agrees. Mistyfoot tells Hawkfrost that she has already found a camp. Leopardstar agrees with Mistyfoot and Hawkfrost accepts his leaders answer. Leafpaw points out that Hawkfrost might only be trying to do what is best for his clan but Squirrelflight believes he is challenging Mistyfoot. Leafpaw points out that although they don't trust him he actually hasn't done anything yet. Leafpaw rests and Cinderpelt awakens her. She goes off to help Mothwing with gathering water for the elders when she realizes that Mothwing has been using water contaminated with crow food. Mothwing is upset - she didn't realize the water was tainted because she could only smell the mousebile on her own fur. Leafpaw worries for the cats who drank the water.

Squirrelflight collects Brambleclaw and brings him to Crowfeather and Tawnypelt so the four of them might say goodbye. It is time for the clans to go their separate ways. Before parting the leaders speak one last time about making rough boundaries that will be set at the next Gathering. Hawkfrost seeks out Brambleclaw to tell him goodbye. Brambleclaw senses that Hawkfrost wants to tell him more but a cat calls for him and he must go. Squirrelflight is upset that Brambleclaw was talking to Hawkfrost. Brambleclaw says he was only trying to he friendly but Squirrelflight counters with Hawkfrost's attempt to grab the island. Brambleclaw points out that only RiverClan can use the island anyway and Squirrelflight stalks off angrily. Brambleclaw doesn't understand why the one friendship that should have held together seems to be falling apart the fastest. The one clan officially becomes four and Firestar has Brambleclaw and Squirrelflight lead the way. The cats feel uneasy walking through strange territory and Brambleclaw and Squirrelflight are afriad they won't be able to find the new den before the sun goes down. But they do find it and take the clan there. The clan has mixed reactions to the den with Mousefur being the most vocal about disliking it. As Brambleclaw tries to help Ferncloud settle in he loses his temper and gets into a fight with Mousefur, who feels he should be helping her. He realizes that Firestar is watching as Brackenfur comes to his rescue, soothing Mousefur. Brambleclaw finds himself wondering if Brackenfur should be deputy instead but he fears the real reason he will never be deputy is because of Tigerstar. He tries to find Squirrelflight to sleep with her but she does not answer him when he calls so he curls up with Goldenflower and Longtail instead.

So I feel that this is the beginning of Hawkfrost's dark journey. Openly challenging Mistyfoot like that was shocking. It is also not what I thought he would do. He spoke of not making the same mistakes as Tigerstar but here he is, making them. Being openly ambitious and hungering for the spot of deputy. Granted, he isn't outright murdering anyone for the position like Tigerstar did but I feel that it is still the same mistake. Hawkfrost can justify his actions as being for his clan all he wants but that is also the same argument Tigerstar used to justify his actions. And while Hawkfrost might believe his intentions are pure nothing says that Tigerstar didn't believe the same.

I also feel torn over Brambleclaw and his desires. Part of me feels that the old Brambleclaw would have never aspired for deputy - he would have been happy with just being a trusted warrior - and I feel a bit betrayed by this development. However, in all fairness, Brambleclaw is now used to being the leader. It is understandable that suddenly having to answer to someone chafes. I also feel he is being overly paranoid about Tigerstar being his father, but considering how some of the cats treated him when he was a kit - and how his sister felt driven from the clan - that is not a wholly unreasonable way to feel. But I think his paranoia is making his problem with Squirrelflight worse - however I place some of the blame at her feet too. Hating Hawkfrost herself is no reason to basically forbid Brambleclaw from talking to him. I think the two of them need to be more honest with each other and then they would realize that most of their fears are unfounded but instead they seem to be pulling apart. And really, Squirrelflight really needs to be there with Brambleclaw if he is going to pursue a friendship with Hawkfrost. I do believe Hawkfrost is the bad guy here and Squirrelflight should not let Brambleclaw face that alone. And while Leafpaw does not trust Hawkfrost either she at least admits that she has no real proof to back her feelings.

Lastly, though, I do want to say that Mothwing as a medicine cat is a mess. Breaking the warrior code with Leafpaw back in the forest, freezing when Leafpaw had to save the drowning cat, her blunder over the Moonstone, and now giving cats sick water. She really can't seem to do much right.

starlight: part one

Okay, this one is going to be a bit long since it covers the first 103 pages.

StarClan reaches the new land. Bluestar, Spottedleaf, and others discuss how the clans must find the new way of speaking to them - and how they must learn to live as four clans again. StarClan is also wary of a cat who seeks power, and this angers Crookedstar. Yellowfang sees a vision, and the water runs red with blood. She warns the cats that before there is peace in the new land, blood will spill blood.

After reaching the new land the clans send two cats - Mistyfoot and Russetfur - to scout out the area. The cats head towards the lake and Brambleclaw wishes to approach with his friends, knowing that this is the end of their journey and they must soon part ways. The four remaining cats move off together knowing that soon things will change. The next morning Tallstar is not doing well, causing his deputy, Mudclaw, to make some waves as he starts to take over. Firestar makes Squirrelpaw a warrior, giving her the name Squirrelflight, and the four cats - along with Mistyfoot for RiverClan - are sent to explore the surrounding area, finding good land for the clans. When the cats start to head out Brambleclaw starts issuing orders, then realizes that it is Mistyfoot's place to do so. The cats leave and Leafpaw chases after them to say goodbye.

Leafpaw watches them leave and feels envious of the closeness between them. She finds herself watching Crowfeather, feeling that he has an important path laid before him by StarClan. Cinderpelt interrupts her thoughts by asking if she wishes she could go with them. Instead of answering, Leafpaw sees an image of herself chasing after the group to walk side by side with Crowfeather. The idea shocks her, especially as she feels as if she can feel his fur touching her. She finally answers Cinderpelt by responding she has work here. The medicine cats all meet to discuss what to do. They speak of collecting herbs but talk quickly turns to what to do with no Moonstone. Mothwing blunders when she says it doesn't really matters and goes back to speaking of herbs. Leafpaw covers for her by pointing out they cannot worry about things they do not control, so they should work on what they can. Leafpaw and Mothwing are sent off to collect supplies. Mothwing sees an island that she is convinced will be perfect for Gatherings. Mothwing swims over and explores it and comes back to report it is perfect, but Cinderpelt and Littlecloud disagree, pointing out that not everyone can swim and the elders would never make it.

As Brambleclaw and the others explore the area the cats keep asking him for advice and orders instead of Mistyfoot. Mistyfoot tells Brambleclaw that the cats are obviously used to listening to him so he should continue leading them. They find territory for RiverClan, along with an area that is perfect for their camp. They come across a Thunderpath and some of the cats, including Brambleclaw, freeze - their minds filled with the images of monsters tearing up the forest. They continue exploring and find territory that would be good for ShadowClan, but they cannot find a camp. They catch the scent of other cats and Brambleclaw insists they check it out, leading to a fight with some very tough kittypets. Mistyfoot becomes angry at Brambleclaw for putting them in unnecessary danger and for everyone getting lost as they run away. Brambleclaw is embarrassed and upset with himself. They find a spot to sleep for the night and decide it might make a good camp for ShadowClan. Squirrelpaw points out that they never would have found it if it wasn't for Brambleclaw going after the kittypets, much to Mistyfoot's amusement.

The next day they head back to the lake and then move on. The weather is poor and they decide to rest someplace dry to get out of the rain. The cats find shelter and rest. After the rain passes they go back to exploring the area. Squirrelpaw accidentally falls off a cliff as she hunts a vole. She lands in an abandoned quarry and calls Brambleclaw down. She excitedly shows him the area and declares it a good camp for their clan. Brambleclaw is uncertain but he finally confesses to Squirrelpaw that he wants a camp just like their old one. The other cats join them and they move on. They hurry to get back to the main camp as they cut through the last territory. They decide it is good for WindClan but they don't have time to explore it. They see an area that looks good for the camp and Crowfeather goes off to check it on his own. He meets back up with the other cats, happy to have found a place, and they all return to their leaders. Back at the camp Firestar asks Mistyfoot for a report, but she tells him Brambleclaw should give it instead. Brambleclaw feels nervous as he jumps up to a stump to speak to everyone. He gives a brief description of what they had seen. He finishes by saying that the individual cats from the clan can give a more thorough report to their leaders. He jumps down and Hawkfrost comes over to speak with him. Brambleclaw expects hostility and is shocked to instead be thanked by Hawkfrost for finding a place for his clan. Hawkfrost also expresses sorrow that they must part before really getting to know each other. Brambleclaw finds himself thinking if he and Hawkfrost had grown up in the same clan they might have been best friends, like Firestar and Graystripe. Squirrelflight interrupts them, telling Brambleclaw that Firestar is waiting for him. After Hawkfrost leaves Squirrelflight asks him what he was doing talking to Hawkfrost when he can't be trusted. Brambleclaw and Squirrelflight get into a fight over Hawkfrost, Squirrelflight insisting he is not a good cat even though she can offer no proof. Brambleclaw accuses her of disliking and distrusting Hawkfrost because his father is Tigerstar. Squirrelflight angrily stalks away and Brambleclaw is left wondering if Squirrelflight even trusts himself.

So part of me feels like this story is moving very rapidly - but another part of me feels like that is just an illusion since the first third of the book takes place in the first four chapters and prologue!

But, a couple of things. I was surprised by this potential Leafpaw/Crowfeather development. Medicine cats cannot fall in love and have kits. And I don't think Leafpaw is in love with a cat she has barely even met, but I do believe she had almost a vision of her and him together - and I do wonder if that was just longing on her part or something from StarClan.

I am also surprised by Squirrelflight's reaction to Brambleclaw talking to Hawkfrost. Don't get me wrong, I think the cat is a problem, but so far his only crimes are acting like a jerk and being Tigerstar's son. Neither of those really add any weight to insisting Brambleclaw shouldn't talk to him. And, it is completely understandable that Brambleclaw wants to get to know his half brother. I feel that Squirrelflight is right and I'm not accusing her of overreacting, but rather of acting poorly. Also, why on earth would cold, arrogant Hawkfrost want to be friends with Brambleclaw suddenly? This seems very suspicious to me and I can't help but wonder if there is more to this then meets the eye.

Lastly, Mothwing's blunder was interesting. She basically came right out and said that talking to StarClan isn't important. This is very different from her first night at the Moonstone where she was so excited when she woke up. I wonder if this is because she was not fully trained, she has no warrior ancestors (since in the manga Tigerstar said he was not with StarClan), or something else. I hope this gets explained more fully as the book goes on. In the end I can't help but remember Leafpaw's vision of Mothwing at the Moonstone...