Confronting a Familiar Foe [for Zenpaii]

Shrikestar took a deep breath before stepping out of his den and into the clearing. What he needed to bring up wasn't what he wanted to do, but he knew it needed to be done. Now that he knew the truth, he couldn't pretend like he hadn't heard it. With heavy paws he made his way towards Scorchtalon. "Scorchtalon, could I see you for a moment?"

Scorchtalon was finishing up his meal when Shrikestar approached, his head raising at the sound of his name being called. He felt his stomach sink at the expression on the leader's face, immediately assuming the worst.

"Of course, Shrikestar." He replied, fighting to keep his voice steady as he rose to his paws. He wanted to believe Batsong had kept his secret, but he knew that as a medicine cat her loyalty to the clan must be put above friendships. This was his mistake alone, and he was ready to deal with whatever consequences Shrikestar deemed appropriate.

Shrikestar took Scorchtalon to an empty part of the clearing, where no other cats would overhear them. Still, he leaned in so he could speak quietly without arousing suspicion. No one yet needed to know what was going on if he could help the warrior find his way. "Scorchtalon, I have heard that you have a relationship with a ShadowClan cat. I'm sure you know WindClan's policy on such relationships. However, I am willing to forgive all of this. You're a valued warrior, Scorchtalon, and I still want you in this clan. If you break off your relationship with that ShadowClan cat, nobody else in the clan has to know." He sat on his haunches, waiting to see which direction Scorchtalon would take.

Scorchtalon felt like he was being torn in two. His loyalty to the clan and his oath to put his clanmates before anything else warred with his undeniable feelings for Marshmallow. He knew he could never leave his clan, but was he really willing to give up his happiness? His eyes narrowed as he struggled with his indecision.

"Alright, I'll stop seeing her." He finally replied, his shoulders drooping with resignation. He didn't want it to be this way, but what other choice did he have? Even if joining Shadowclan was an option, he knew he wouldn't be happy there. The moor was his home, Windclan was his home.

"Thank you for giving me a chance Shrikestar, I won't disappoint you." He dipped his head and turned to leave. He had no idea how he would break this news to Marshmallow, but he was sure she'd understand...