Thread:Mistleheart/@comment-27934404-20170218031001

Jayfeather's pelt spiked as he heard the familiar yowl of Tigerstar slice through the silence. He could sense the sudden terror hanging in the air, and when he pricked his ears, he heard the senior warriors and kits alike murmuring fearfully as the Clans prepared for the reaping. Jayfeather shuddered, wondering which six of his Clanmates would be selected this season to participate in the deadly Hunger Games.

Even I can be chosen, the medicine cat reminded himself. Perhaps I should worry about myself.

A tail-tip brushed against the skinny gray tabby tom's side, and he turned to breathe in the forest-tainted scent of his sister, Hollyleaf. "Hurry," the slender she-cat meowed quietly. "The reaping is already about to begin."

For a moment, Jayfeather was impressed by his sister's calm, steady words. Then, he inhaled in her sharp fear-scent, and he realized Hollyleaf was as frightened as everyone else.

The medicine cat nodded numbly and followed Hollyleaf into the throng of gathered warriors. He settled down between his sister and Tawnypelt, tilting his muzzle attentively toward where Tigerstar sat. Jayfeather sensed the tom's glare burning into pelt, and he shifted his paws nervously. Have I been chosen?

"Welcome, now that we are all here." Tigerstar's scornful words were edged with contempt. Beside Jayfeather, Hollyleaf bristled, her thick fur prickling. Tawnypelt gazed at her father with defiance in her stare, but Jayfeather noticed her contradicting anxiety.

To be continued 