the wound on his leg was red, hot, and stinging. he didn't want to worry anyone, especially with leafbare. especially his mate. stress was already high in the clan, with the prey pile being scarce and cats starving left and right. he didn't want to worry anyone. he laid around, silently praying to whoever was out there to numb the pain. he walked with a limp in his step but with confidence, hoping nobody would notice. he didn't want to worry anyone. but as he laid in his nest, breathing shallow and heavy, the only emotion that swirled in his heart was regret. marigoldcherish wasn't strong, he never was! he didn't do anything for the clan. he didn't do anything for his siblings. he didn't do anything for his ancestors. he was just ... there. but marigoldcherish could look past all of that- at least, when faced with her. craftysolace. oh tides, craftysolace. he gritted his teeth, tears pricking his eyes. marigoldcherish tried to move despite the burn in his hindleg. his mate, the light of his life, soon to be mother, the kindest cat he knew. Fifi. he wanted to hear that clear voice one more time. he didn't care what emotion broke it apart, he wanted to see her face. he couldn't leave her, not when he promised not to! all alone, having to carry the burden of the clan with her, and soon two kits. purityseeker, lotusbloom - he regretted not searching for them all these moons. he regretted arguing with his sibling. he regretted everything. but death is an unwelcome intruder, and not a merciful one. instead of the glorious death in battle he fantasized about, or old age alongside his family, marigoldcherish would die in the warriors den. alone. and as he took one last gulp of the salty sea air, all he tasted was failure. cruel, harsh, and cold failure.
