Amberleaf nodded to the others, noting Harepaw’s aggression. That was to be expected; he could only hope that the apprentice would not attack without Amberleaf giving the word. As the scent grew stronger, he was certain that it was vaguely familiar, and when he came into sight of the loner he recognized him immediately. Maybe some of the other cats wouldn’t remember Briar, who had been with the Clan for only a few sunrises, but as the deputy, Amberleaf was well aware of every cat who was in the Clan or had been in the past.

“Briar,” Amberleaf mewed calmly, coming to a stop a few tail-lengths away. “What brings you to BoulderClan’s territory? Again,” he added, allowing some disapproval to color his voice. He didn’t really mind the beige tom and didn’t feel threatened by his presence, especially since he had family within the Clan, but they couldn’t just allow Briar to roam their territory whenever he felt like it, much less hunt within it. It would set a dangerous precedent for other loners and even rogues.

[@Phaesaris][@OtterTerror][@CLIW]

[hr]

Nettlefang fell in behind Boulderstar, appearing more confident than he felt that they would find Owlkit safe and sound. Outside the camp, he caught the scent trail headed towards OakClan’s border and waved at Boulderstar with this tail. “I think he went this way,” he called, following Owlkit’s scent with his jaws open. It was somewhat fresh, so the kit couldn’t have been gone for too long. Hopefully he didn’t venture into OakClan territory, but even if he had, surely those cats wouldn’t harm a helpless kit? Still, better to find the little troublemaker as soon as possible.

Soon, a strange scent that Nettlefang couldn’t quite place flooded his jaws on the wind, and he caught sight of a much larger feline walking towards them. He stopped in surprise, fur starting to rise as he prepared for an attack, but relief washed over him when he noticed the small bundle of fur on the lynx’s back. “Owlkit,” Nettlefang said quietly, thankful for the kit’s safety. He looked to Boulderstar to address the visitor, seeing as she was their leader.

[@KahleenCuthald][@Iatos]