“I came alone,” Tigerstar told him. “I have no patience for Hawkfrost’s sneering. He thinks you actually believe this prophecy. But I know you’re too smart to believe Firestar’s mouse-brained dreams.”

Lionpaw shifted his paws, uncomfortable under Tigerstar’s unblinking gaze. “Did you see the sun vanish?”

“It seems the Clans have displeased StarClan.” Tigerstar’s whiskers twitched. “Those starry-eyed fools never had the heart for battle. Unlike you.”

“Ashfur says I’m ready to be a warrior.”

“Really?” Tigerstar circled him. “You think you have learned all there is to learn?”

“I’ve learned all Ashfur has to teach.”

“You still have plenty to learn from me.”

Lionpaw narrowed his eyes. Did Tigerstar really know more? Does he guide my paws in battle? Was it only Tigerstar’s training that helped him beat every enemy and leave the fight unscathed?

Tigerstar’s breath felt hot on his muzzle as the warrior leaned closer. “You have plenty to learn from me, right?”

Lionpaw shifted on his paws. The dark warrior wanted an answer.

“You can teach me more battle skills, I suppose.” Lionpaw lifted his chin. “But what’s the point when I’ve proved I can beat any cat?”

Tigerstar’s eyes blazed like fire. “You think you’re invincible!” A growl rumbled in his throat. “Hawkfrost is right. You do believe this prophecy.”

“Yes!” Lionpaw dug his claws into the ground. “You saw me fight in the battle. Could you have fought better and come out unharmed?” He flicked his tail. “You were killed in battle.”

He turned to leave. He didn’t need the guidance of this dead cat!

A roar split the air. Lionpaw spun around. Too late: Claws pierced his shoulders as Tigerstar knocked him to the ground. Lionpaw struggled, but Tigerstar held him down, his massive shoulders rippling with the effort.

“You think you don’t need me anymore, is that it?” Tigerstar hissed in his ear. “You’re a fool! You’ve just been lucky, nothing more. Firestar’s prophecy is blinding you. You’re like a kit who still believes in nursery tales.” He shoved Lionpaw down harder, pressing his face into the leaves. “You’re powerful because of me, and you will only grow more powerful by learning what I teach you.” He gave Lionpaw another shake before jumping back.

Lionpaw scrambled to his paws and turned on him, anger flaring in his belly. But Tigerstar was fading, his shape dissolving in front of him.

“I’ve not finished with you yet.” With a final hiss, Tigerstar vanished.

Lionpaw was trembling with fury. Why was Tigerstar so determined to ignore the prophecy?

“Lionpaw!” Ashfur was calling him from the bushes ahead.

He hurried to catch up, his shoulders stinging where Tigerstar’s claws had dug in. He glanced behind him. Was Tigerstar still watching? What did the dark warrior want from him, if he didn’t want the power of the stars?

CHAPTER 23