Chapter 18

Viperpaw and Blade were assigned to patrol the borders of ThunderClan. Viperpaw knew that Blade had trust issues, but she was determined to break down his walls and get to know him better.

As they walked through the forest, Blade remained quiet, only speaking when necessary. Viperpaw tried to strike up a conversation, but it felt like she was talking to herself. She decided to give up on small talk and focus on their mission.

As they reached the edge of ThunderClan's territory, they noticed a group of rouges gathering nearby. Viperpaw's heart raced as she prepared to attack, but Blade held her back.

"Let's observe for a moment," he said softly.

Viperpaw watched as the rouges scavenged for food and water. They seemed desperate and hungry, not like the ruthless rouges she had encountered before. Blade noticed her observation and spoke up.

"Not all rouges are bad, you know. Some are just trying to survive."

Viperpaw looked at Blade with newfound respect. She had never thought of it that way before.

The two of them continued to watch the rouges, occasionally exchanging small observations. Viperpaw noticed that Blade had a soft spot for young cats, and he even showed her how to catch a fish for them to eat.

As they made their way back to ThunderClan's territory, Viperpaw felt closer to Blade than she had before. She appreciated his kindness and willingness to teach her new things.

As they parted ways, Viperpaw couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness. She wondered if they would ever have that kind of moment again. But for now, she was grateful to have made a new friend in the midst of the ongoing conflict.