Tree gave his chest fur a couple of quick licks. “I’m not sure I want to do that,” he meowed. “Being an apprentice doesn’t sound like much fun.”

We’re not here to have fun, Violetshine thought.

From the look of her, the same response was going through Leafstar’s mind. Though there was understanding in her expression, Violetshine could see frustration in her twitching whiskers and the way her claws kept sliding in and out.

“As much as we like you, Tree,” she told him, “it’s not fair to other cats if you live in camp without contributing as a member of the Clan. I hope you understand that.”

Violetshine couldn’t account for the sudden clenching she felt in her chest. Why should I feel so tense and agitated when Leafstar suggests that Tree might have to leave the camp? I hardly know him. But she knew that she did care, even if it might be smarter not to.

Before Tree could respond, Frecklewish stepped forward with a respectful dip of her head to Leafstar. “Remember that Tree has had visions,” she mewed to her Clan leader. “Maybe his destiny is as a medicine cat?”

Though maybe we already have enough medicine cats around the lake, Violetshine thought.

Leafstar looked uncertain, then turned to Tree with a shrug. “Perhaps Frecklewish is right. StarClan chooses some cats to be medicine cats, and, since you see visions, maybe they have chosen you. Would you like to spend some time working with her, to see if you might find a home here as a medicine-cat apprentice? I’m sure StarClan will let you know if that is what they intend for you.”

“Okay, I’ll give it a try,” Tree responded, though Violetshine didn’t think he sounded particularly eager. “Honestly, Leafstar,” he went on, “I really don’t mean to take advantage of SkyClan’s kindness.”

His words earned him an approving nod from Leafstar, who waved her tail to dismiss him.

Tree turned away, heading for his den, and Violetshine padded alongside him to retrieve her bunch of ferns.

“Do you think Frecklewish is right? Could StarClan intend for you to become a medicine cat?” she asked him.

Tree shook his head. “I’m not sure,” he admitted. “Medicine cats talk about weird stuff. Besides, I’d have to memorize all the herbs and remedies, and get really close to sick cats.” His nose wrinkled. “It’s kind of gross. . . . I’m not sure that sort of life is for me. I’d rather be sunning myself on a rock.”

Wouldn’t we all? Violetshine wondered, though at the same time she felt an odd wash of relief, like the first cool lap of water on a hot day.

She half turned toward where she had left the ferns, then turned back. “Tree,” she mewed, “I want to ask you something about your visions.”

“Ask away,” Tree responded amiably.