Dawn Patrol (07/24) [OPEN after speedy + xaan post)

It was that early morning balance of hot and cold that the Greenleaf air wasn't intolerable. Uncomfortable still, a sticky sort of heat that made her pelt itch, but it was accompanied by a pleasant breeze that made her want to tilt her head up into it and stand there for StarClan-knows-how-long. So she did, letting the breeze carry scents to her. The border, the river, all that lay beyond and the little inklings of bits more. ThunderClan scents and SkyClan scents, down in the far distance. Mostly RiverClan scents and the mist that kicked up from the river.

Her ear flicked as the rest of the patrol approached. Sprucebark, who had asked her for duties only on the territory-- She did not blame him. There was still no sign of Elmstorm anywhere, and worry was starting to eat at most of them. And Larkspring. Always Larkspring.

Larkspring walked alongside Sprucebark. While Sprucebark’s gaze was always moving, always vigilant for any sign of his son, Larkspring continued to stare ahead. He’d watched some cats disappear and return, but he’d also watched many, including his father, disappear and never return. He honestly had no hope that Elmstorm would return, nor did he particularly care that much. His concern lied with this patrol and ensuring that their clan was safe.

“You shouldn’t stray too far ahead,” Larkspring said to Cindersky. “I don’t want you running into trouble while we’re lagging behind.” He looked to Sprucebark and then back to her. “We seem to be going slower than usual today.”