Forgotten Land (ch. 1)

Instructions

Cinderbreath made his way up the rocky slope, anticipation building as he approached the StarPond. Doubts swirled in his mind like a tempest, questioning whether he truly deserved to lead RiverClan. Despite his popularity and the respect he garnered from his clanmates, uncertainty lingered. But as he straightened his posture, a sense of calm washed over him, a faint smile gracing his features. Webbedfoot's voice broke through his thoughts, her gentle expression mirroring his own newfound peace. "I see contentment in your eyes, Cinderbreath," she remarked softly. "Yes, I am," he replied, meeting her gaze with gratitude. "You will soon be known as Cinderstar, the leader of RiverClan," she continued, but his doubts resurfaced. "Do you think I am the right leader for RiverClan, Webbedfoot?" he inquired quietly. She paused, her silence amplifying his uncertainty. After a moment, she spoke, her words carrying reassurance and wisdom. "Cinderbreath, you possess the qualities of a great leader. Your clan adores you, but ultimately, the decision lies with you to lead RiverClan." Cinderbreath was speechless, a sense of gratitude washing over him. "Thank you," he finally uttered, a newfound sense of determination settling within him. "We are nearly there," she began, her voice filled with anticipation. "Once we return to camp after speaking to StarClan, you will undoubtedly feel weary. Rest is essential." Cinderbreath was on the verge of declining her suggestion when she hushed him gently. "It is imperative that you are well-rested for the sake of your clan." His jaws snapped shut, and he paused, his gaze fixed ahead. Before him lay a pond, its surface adorned with countless stars, as dark as the night sky. Surrounding the pond were thick shrubs and towering plants, leaving only a small clearing for communing with StarClan. "Lie down and let your nose touch the water. Close your eyes and let yourself unwind," Webbedfoot instructed, motioning with her tail. "I will be here, waiting for you, Cinderbreath." He obediently settled in front of the StarPond, closing his eyes that were the color of deep emerald. Cinderbreath hesitated for a moment, taking a deep breath. Slowly, he tentatively touched his nose to the cool water. May StarClan accept me, he thought, his unease palpable. Darkness enveloped him as he plummeted, landing on the chilly stone. Cinderbreath wobbled to his feet, his fur bristling with discomfort. Surveying his surroundings, he realized this wasn't StarClan. Peering into the darkness, he hesitated until a glimmer of light caught his eye. Motionless, he observed as his surroundings transformed into shapes and hues. A clearing materialized, with celestial cats perched on rocks engaged in conversation. "I have arrived," he announced. The felines fell silent upon noticing him, their gazes meeting his. "Cinderbreath. Welcome to StarClan," Swanstar greeted him. The majestic white she-cat purred in amusement at his reaction. "Swanstar, it brings me joy to see you once more," he meowed, his voice filled with delight.