come with me now (attie)

The morning sunlight had the leader squinting as he moved out of the den. The rays seemed closer and closer to the entrance each day, the early rising of the light a constant reminder that he had placed to go, and activity to oversee. Even so, as the tabby tom emerged, his pelt ruffled and in need of a clean, he already had his plans laid out for the day. It was time to do something with his apprentice. For how long had he left the she-cat to her own business, assigned to other patrols and being watched over by other mentors? It really had been too long.

Yet, he was there to make the change. They needed strong warriors, and the best way to start was to set an example with his own. Pinestar paws moved quickly, his shoulder straight and limbs keeping him well and truly to his true height. His movements were with purpose, pawsteps loud and heavy, and plenty of glances coming his way as he moved toward the apprentice’s den. It was rare for him to start his morning differently from his usual walk and grooming routine. However, he wanted to take advantage of Snowfall looking after the camp for the day, and use all the time they could.

Reaching the apprentice’s den, Pinestar crouched, and eased himself through the entrance, peering around carefully. As he’d expected, moss was kicked around, a generally messy feel to the enclosed, warm den. Most of the clan’s apprentices remained there, tucked up together, not yet summoned for the day. He had no intention of disturbing them till they were needed. Instead, he moved forward, stepping over Dandelionpaw and Icepaw, and reaching Foxpaw’s side carefully. Gently, he prodded the she-cat’s side, and crouched the best he could to avoid looming.

“Foxpaw, time to get up and moving. We’re going out training today,” he rumbled as quietly as he could. However, he was still aware this his voice carried across the whole den. The pine lifted his head to stare at the far wall for a moment with exasperation at himself, before looking down again, and giving the she-cat another nudge. However, that was all, and he turned to moved back toward the den entrance. Pushing himself back out into the clearing. The leader sat himself down, and reached to give his chest a few good, long licks. She’d no doubt emerge when she was ready to go.