The Tale of Mozart the Meerkitten

[Mozart the Meerkitten]

*takes deep breath* *blows dust off thread*

Okay, so hi everybody. I'm reviving this thread because I'm now editing my first book... actually, I'm re-writing it. My grandpa gave me the idea a while back and I realized it was probably the best way to do it. I just finished chapter three and it already makes SO much more sense than the original version.

So, I'm gonna post my revised edition here. If you want to read it, more power to you, if you aren't interested that's fine too. I just don't want to leave the original *cough*reallybadlywrittenone*cough* here for all eternity.

 

[Mozart the Meerkitten]

Prologue​

A young she-cat shivered as she trekked back to her den. She walked slowly in, careful not to disturb her day old kittens.
A tom cat watched her from the corner as she sniffed a mouse he had brought, she gulped it down eagerly, not looking up until she had finished.
“What will you do with them?” asked the tom cat.
“Who? The kittens? I’ve found someone to take care of them.”
“They are very little you know, you shouldn’t do this.”
“I must.” Was the she-cat’s blank reply, she had to, but didn’t want to.
The tomcat shook his head, “You saw them, none can escape their grasp, the kittens will die without you… Please, Rita….”
“Jako I know you think it’s foolhardy that I might be able to get them out, but I can, I know I can. My one regret is that I’ll never see them become what I hope they’ll be.”
“And what is that?”
“Warriors. Warriors who can defeat Cogg and his army. The ones from the prophecy.”
“That is impossible! Rita, use your head, these little ones,” his tail swept over the kittens, “Are only babies, they won’t be warriors, they may not even live!” hissed Jako.
“Jako, I must get them away. Please help me.”
Jako sighed and reluctantly agreed.

That night the two cats readied themselves. Rita took the first kitten, a golden haired beauty, whose fur shown in the moonlight.
“I shall name you, Toto, you are my firstborn. Be a leader.” She whispered to the little cat, who wasn’t even a week old, but seemed to hear his mother’s voice, as he let out a soft mew in acceptation.
Jako stayed with the others until Rita came back. Rita then took the next kitten.
This one was dark haired, one who blends with the shadows.
“I name you Caspian, be a protector, a strong and courageous warrior.” She whispered, and again the kit gave a small mew of exception.
Then the next kitten, a pale blond-golden haired girl who wriggled with anticipation.
“I name you Dorthy, be a strong girl, be frightened by nothing, and be as defiance and stubborn as your mother.” This time the kit mewled loudly, Rita stopped a moment, then continued quickly.
Then the last kit, this one was the very tiniest kitten of all of them. She had dark hair and Rita carried her lightly and sang,
“Little one, little one, be greatest of all,
Let none bother you because you are small,
Be kind and sweet,
Though small and petite,
A tiny kitten,
The toughest,
Most defiant,
May the Lord King be with you,
Ever, always.
Mozart the Meerkitten,
My baby.”

 

[Mozart the Meerkitten]

*changes start here* Any suggestions for making this better are WELCOME. This is the version that I will-hopefully- get published.

Chapter one
Memory and Time​

Myrrh followed the young orange tomcat through the forest to a small cave.
“You said you would take me to the ones from the prophecy, the ones destined to kill Cogg.” Said Myrrh.
“And I am…” he said evenly, “sort of. It’s really more of a feeling Rita has.”
Myrrh’s ears twitched, her expression unreadable.

The tomcat led her inside. After her eyes adjusted to the dim light, Myrrh could make out a young she-cat and four tiny kits, no more than a week old.”
“Myrrh,” said the young she-cat, “When we were kits you helped to care for us, now I ask that you do the same for my kits.”
“Rita, this is crazy. Tomorrow you want to go into a battle with Cogg that you cannot win and tonight you wish to leave your newborn kits with an old she-cat?” Myrrh shook her head, “You used to be so sensible and now you’ve fallen into something close to insanity or madness!”
Rita sighed, “I am sorry, Myrrh, but I must keep trying to rid the forest of Cogg’s grasp.”
“But if these kits are the chosen ones,” Myrrh reasoned, “Then why not keep them and teach them to fight? Then, once they are old enough, take them into battle and let them kill Cogg.”
Jako answered for her, “We must protect the parts of the forest we do have, or else we will all be killed or captured and they will have no chance to kill Cogg.”
“You don’t know that.” Said Myrrh quietly, “Or have you so quickly forgotten that the White Cat still cares for and watches over us?”
Jako did not reply to her directly. Instead he said, “Our minds are made up, Myrrh, will you take the kits or not?”
Myrrh sighed as she looked at the two resolute young cats before her. She nodded, “Yes, I suppose I must take them.”


Myrrh jerked awake. The dream was so vivid it was as if it had happened just yesterday instead of three months ago.
The old cat shook her head and walked over to a large chest. Quietly she undid the clasps and pushed it open. Brushing aside a cloth, she sighed when she saw the dull gleam of a gold-adorned scabbard. Quickly she pulled the cloth back over it, but not before a single tear dropped onto the leather. She wiped her eyes and closed the chest again.

Myrrh crept up the stairs and through the hallway to her youngest kitten’s room. Opening the door a crack, she the room divided into two sections by a curtain. The two tomkits were on one side and the two little she-cats on the other.
“Toto, Caspian, Dorthy and… Mozart.” She whispered, her eyes stopping on the smallest of the kittens. Even though she was three months old Mozart was still the same size as she was at four days old when Myrrh first saw her. Her big, dark blue eyes and soft fuzzy fur added to the illusion that Mozart was much younger.
‘Is she really ready?’ thought Myrrh, ‘Are they ready?’
Rita’s parting words echoed in her head once more.
‘When they are ready and old enough, tell them that they must go to the great fortress of Reandalawo to help those who are there fight Cogg. Jako has made swords for the two toms and the little she-kit and daggers for them all. I have made a bow and quiver of arrows for the other she-cat. You must train them from the moment they can walk, for they must be ready…’

Ready. Was it time to tell them? Should she continue to wait? Things had gone so badly in that last battle, three months ago. Was she really willing to send more kits whom she had taken care of into a battle which they might never return from?
Myrrh sighed. Training the four kits had been easy; they all seemed to possess an inate ability to fight well and confidently. However they were still very young and lacked the experience that only time could give.
“They are still only kits… the war drags on as the Reandalawoins struggle to hold back Cogg’s onslaught, what could four kittens possibly do to change such odds? But if they are the ones chosen to defeat Cogg…”

A breeze carried through the open window. It was late October, but the air was warm and showed no signs of getting colder, which all the worse for those defending Reandalawo as they were relying on the winter snows to give them a respite from Cogg’s attack.

Myrrh twitched her ears. The wind carried a quiet, but strong voice on it.
“Delay no longer, Myrrh, they have always been ready. And do not forget that I will be with them through it all.”
Myrrh sighed again as the voice faded.
‘Who knew that whispers would change my life forever?’

 

[Mozart the Meerkitten]

Chapter two
The kits’ mission​

“I didn’t do it! I dunno what it is that I didn’t do, but... I didn’t do it!”

Dorthy had her little paws crossed across her chest and was staring up at Myrrh defiantly. The old she-cat had to smile at her- Dorthy was a stubborn little cat and quite a troublemaker at times. It was typical then, for her to deny any charges that might be made against her ahead of time.

“Strangely enough, Dorthy, I am not here to punish you for anything- this time.” Myrrh told her and the other three kittens. She had called them together after breakfast, since she knew that delaying would only make her change her mind.
“Are we going on another training mission?” Caspian asked excitedly. He was a fearless little tomcat, brave, and incredibly protective.
Myrrh shook her head, “No, I’m afraid not. This is much more serious, little ones.”
“We’re not that little anymore, afterall, we did just turn three months old.” Dorthy protested.
“When you get to be my age, all creatures are young or ‘little ones’.” Myrrh told them.
“I hope we never get to be her age.” Caspian whispered to his brother, Toto.
Toto was a solemn kitten. He was a thinker and planner, brave, but not one to rush headlong into battle like his brother.
Mozart dug her paw into her brother’s side, “Shhh! Whether you ever want to be that age or not you should still respect Myrrh. She did raise us you know.”
Mozart was friendly, cheerful and very kind. She was courageous and loyal and a good fighter, despite her tiny size.

“Mozart is right,” said Myrrh, “And this is important. You remember how I’ve told you about the war your parents were in, and how that’s the reason why they left you with me?”
“Yes, it was so they could keep us safe while they tried to rid the world of a great evil.” Replied Dorthy, rolling her eyes, “You’ve told us that story a million times, Myrrh.”
“But I’ve never given you details, now have I?” Myrrh said enticingly, “Now, I am.”
“Why’s that, Myrrh?” asked Toto.
“Because I feel you are… ready, to know the full truth.”
Seeing that she had their attention, Myrrh began.

“Three months ago, five days after you kits were born, your mother and father went into battle against the evil Wolfking, Cogg. Cogg wishes to enslave the forest and –most of all- the fortress of Reandalawo.”
“Why does he want Reandalawo?” asked Caspian.
“Because they beat him once several years ago and it humiliated him. He has sworn vengeance on that fortress now.”
“Gee, aren’t you guys glad that I don’t swear vengeance on you every time you humiliate me.” Joked Caspian.
Dorthy grinned, but Toto remained serious. Mozart looked curious, but held her silence.

 

[The Spanish Inquisition]

Your prose is mostly pretty good, but there's a couple techincal bugs I notice:

Try to avoid the passive tense.

instead of:

Dorthy had her little paws crossed across her chest and was staring up at Myrrh defiantly.

Try:

Dorthy crossed her little paws across her chest and stared up at Myrrh defiantly.

It's a small change, but it makes a big difference. It makes the prose flow better by getting rid of extra words. It's easy to get in the habit of writing that way (Lord knows I do it), but it's a bad habit.

It just kinda bogs the sentences down.

Personally, I try and limit the number of 'to be' verbs I use in my prose (but not dialogue). It makes you think harder about word choice, and your sentences become stronger. I noticed you use 'was' a lot, a little too much. It's an easy way to describe things, but judging from the other prose, I know you can find a more striking way to get your point across.

Secondly, watch for run-ons.

She whispered to the little cat, who wasn’t even a week old, but seemed to hear his mother’s voice, as he let out a soft mew in acceptation.

This sentence kind of wanders on, and it would make for better reading if broken into two sentences, like:

She whispered to the little cat, who wasn’t even a week old. He seemed to hear his mother’s voice, as he let out a soft mew in acceptation.

Finally (this is my last cricticism, I swear):

*deep breath*

show don't tell.

I'm SURE you've heard this before. Good Gravy, it's THE most cliched writing advice ever.

However, don't just say:

Mozart was friendly, cheerful and very kind. She was courageous and loyal and a good fighter, despite her tiny size.

You've got to SHOW the reader through her actions and thoughts and dialogue. You're juggling a lot of characters here, and I understand you want the reader to know something about all of them so they can be told apart. Unfortunately, readers are skeptical and don't believe everything they're told. So the writer has to patronize them and SHOW them.

Which, unfortunately, is a million times harder than it sounds. But practice makes.....better. And no matter how good at writing you are, you can always get better.

Whew. Now, the good stuff.

I really like when you pause the action of the story to get inside Myrrh's head and show us what she's thinking. To me, the heart of the story, more important than the plot, even, is the characters. You show us how she's worried about the kits because she loves them and she's raised them, without hitting us over the head with it and making it too melodramatic. Good work.

 

[Mozart the Meerkitten]

Your prose is mostly pretty good, but there's a couple techincal bugs I notice:

Try to avoid the passive tense.

instead of:



Try:



It's a small change, but it makes a big difference. It makes the prose flow better by getting rid of extra words. It's easy to get in the habit of writing that way (Lord knows I do it), but it's a bad habit.

It just kinda bogs the sentences down.

Personally, I try and limit the number of 'to be' verbs I use in my prose (but not dialogue). It makes you think harder about word choice, and your sentences become stronger. I noticed you use 'was' a lot, a little too much. It's an easy way to describe things, but judging from the other prose, I know you can find a more striking way to get your point across.

Secondly, watch for run-ons.



This sentence kind of wanders on, and it would make for better reading if broken into two sentences, like:



Finally (this is my last cricticism, I swear):

*deep breath*

show don't tell.

I'm SURE you've heard this before. Good Gravy, it's THE most cliched writing advice ever.

However, don't just say:



You've got to SHOW the reader through her actions and thoughts and dialogue. You're juggling a lot of characters here, and I understand you want the reader to know something about all of them so they can be told apart. Unfortunately, readers are skeptical and don't believe everything they're told. So the writer has to patronize them and SHOW them.

Which, unfortunately, is a million times harder than it sounds. But practice makes.....better. And no matter how good at writing you are, you can always get better.

Whew. Now, the good stuff.

I really like when you pause the action of the story to get inside Myrrh's head and show us what she's thinking. To me, the heart of the story, more important than the plot, even, is the characters. You show us how she's worried about the kits because she loves them and she's raised them, without hitting us over the head with it and making it too melodramatic. Good work.

I appreciate your criticisms. I will try to keep such things in mind. I'm finding that re-writing a book is much harder than writing it the first time, simply because I've told this story before. I want to skim over things and it hurts the story.

I also am happy to accept any constructive criticism I can get for my writing because last year all my teachers would tell me when I wrote papers was: "Great job, keep it up." And I'm like, "CRITISIZE MY PAPER! You're my ENGLISH teacher for cryin' out loud, surely you can find SOMETHING wrong with it!"

Erm, *cough* anyway, glad you liked the parts with Myrrh too.

 

[Mozart the Meerkitten]

“It is no laughing matter, Caspian,” said Myrrh sternly, “I have not heard from your parents directly since that battle. I did hear however that the resistance had gone into hiding for the time being. Your mother, however, had a feeling about you four. She believed that you four were the warriors in a prophecy who are destined to kill Cogg and destroy his army.”
“What’s the prophecy?” asked Toto.
“It goes like this,” Myrrh said, her voice turning singsong-ish,

“ ‘The day will come when warriors will be needed,
When the world is at its greatest peril yet,
At this time young warriors will rise up,
To destroy the one who threatens freedom.
Four will there be, and these will be greatest,
For they will be the loyal servants of the White Cat,
And His power will run through them.
The smallest will be greatest,
And the strongest will fall,
But in the end all will rise once more,
To give freedom to those now enslaved.’

“Of course we know who the “one who threatens freedom” is and “the strongest” who will fall. Those parts are apparently referring to Cogg. Where speculation comes in is at the “young warriors”, “Four there will be” and, “The smallest will be greatest”. The prophecy was made before Cogg’s first coming, so originally I thought that the four were a group of young cats who I took to Reandalawo on the very same day that Cogg arrived there. However I was informed by another member of their company that this was not so and that those in the prophecy would not be born for many more years.”
“And our mama thinks that we’re these great warriors?” squeaked Dorthy, “That’s crazy!”
“That’s why you’ve trained us so much,” said Toto, “You wanted us to be ready.”
Myrrh nodded, “As I watched you three grow I began to agree with your mother. You are all exceptionally good at swordplay and archery for your age and you all seem to have had a deep connection with the White Cat since you were very small. It all fits.” Myrrh’s eyes rested again on Mozart.

There was silence for a few moments. Then Mozart said, “So what do you want us to do now?”
“I want to take you to the fortress of Reandalawo. My older kits can look after the house for a few days while I get you settled.”
“You mean you won’t stay?” said Dorthy, her eyes widening.
“No, but I won’t be far either. Reandalawo is only a day’s walk away and if you need me I’ll be here. However I do need to stay; I am one of the Reandalawoin army’s best provisions provider and I need to be here to harvest crops.”
“That’s why none of our older siblings have ever gone to war.” Said Toto quietly.
“Yes, but I have a feeling we may all go to war before this is over.” Said Myrrh grimly. Then, the old cat’s face lightened, “But enough of this talk of war and prophecies. We have a long day ahead of us. Pack your things, kits, we’re going to *Reandalawo.”
“Reanda-whatsit?” asked Dorthy.
“Ren-da-law-o.” said Myrrh slowly, “It’s the main stronghold we have and our best defense against Cogg. Now hurry up, we haven’t got all day!

****​

*I know I've annoyed people with this name and I'm sure I will continue to annoy people with it, but its been in all four books, so you're stuck with it. At any rate, every writer has to have a few unpronouncable names in their series.

 

[The Spanish Inquisition]

I appreciate your criticisms. I will try to keep such things in mind. I'm finding that re-writing a book is much harder than writing it the first time, simply because I've told this story before. I want to skim over things and it hurts the story.

I also am happy to accept any constructive criticism I can get for my writing because last year all my teachers would tell me when I wrote papers was: "Great job, keep it up." And I'm like, "CRITISIZE MY PAPER! You're my ENGLISH teacher for cryin' out loud, surely you can find SOMETHING wrong with it!"

Erm, *cough* anyway, glad you liked the parts with Myrrh too.

That and you know what you MEAN to say in writing. You know where the story is going, but the reader doesn't. Sometimes, something might be clear to you, the writer, but it isn't clear to the reader at all.

Yeah, I had the same problem. People always want to baby you and tell you everything's great. The praise feels nice, but it's pretty useless for the most part.

Here's a question for you, storywise:

where do the cat's names come from? I know you've named some of them after your own cats, but how does that fit into the story's world? There don't seem to be any humans, so how could one be named after a human composer?

(also you know how I feel about Re...re....reanwhatsit. But I'll let you hash that out with a future editor. XD. Personally, I always try to find names that are pronouncable by English speaking audiences. My main characters are mostly Russian (and Russian names can be really hard to pronounce), so I go out of my way to find easy names. I do like how you've provided a way to pronounce it, but I still think you should drop the 'a' and just call it Rendalawo.

Another thing, storywise:

How come the kitten's mother just 'had a feeling' her kittens were the ones in the prophecy? Wouldn't it make more sense for them to be kept safe at the fortress and trained there, since it's so close anyway?

Where did the prophecy originate and how does Mrryh know it? (Does Cogg know about it? And if he does, would he being trying to stop it from coming true?)

How many licks DOES it take to get to the tootsie roll center of a tootsie roll pop?

Unless these are explained later, which is possible.

Outlines help. Although I hate outlining myself. However, if you get serious about writing, it's unfortunately not all fun and a great deal of work. I think it's worth it, though.

And just a note about publishing:

you can't have it posted here if you publish. If you DO find a publisher, this thread will have to be deleted because of copyright issues.

And now I am tired and braindead.

That was a lot of rambling on my part. But I love talking about writing. And other people's writing. I feel like I'm much better at picking apart other people's writing than I am at actually, you know, writing. XD (I'm BRUTAL with my own work. Which is why I'm on my fourth draft of one story.)

 

[Mozart the Meerkitten]

Here's a question for you, storywise:

where do the cat's names come from? I know you've named some of them after your own cats, but how does that fit into the story's world? There don't seem to be any humans, so how could one be named after a human composer?

(also you know how I feel about Re...re....reanwhatsit. But I'll let you hash that out with a future editor. XD. Personally, I always try to find names that are pronouncable by English speaking audiences. My main characters are mostly Russian (and Russian names can be really hard to pronounce), so I go out of my way to find easy names. I do like how you've provided a way to pronounce it, but I still think you should drop the 'a' and just call it Rendalawo.

Another thing, storywise:

How come the kitten's mother just 'had a feeling' her kittens were the ones in the prophecy? Wouldn't it make more sense for them to be kept safe at the fortress and trained there, since it's so close anyway?

Where did the prophecy originate and how does Mrryh know it? (Does Cogg know about it? And if he does, would he being trying to stop it from coming true?)

How many licks DOES it take to get to the tootsie roll center of a tootsie roll pop?

Unless these are explained later, which is possible.

Outlines help. Although I hate outlining myself. However, if you get serious about writing, it's unfortunately not all fun and a great deal of work. I think it's worth it, though.

And just a note about publishing:

you can't have it posted here if you publish. If you DO find a publisher, this thread will have to be deleted because of copyright issues.

And now I am tired and braindead.

That was a lot of rambling on my part. But I love talking about writing. And other people's writing. I feel like I'm much better at picking apart other people's writing than I am at actually, you know, writing. XD (I'm BRUTAL with my own work. Which is why I'm on my fourth draft of one story.)

On the names: For that matter, how did anyone come up with these names in OUR world? And Mozart is actually named after a kitten who's named after a meerkat who's named after the composer. I'm just the only one who knows that. xD

Yeah, maybe, but they have no idea if/when that fortress will be taken over- and it is a distinct possibility. The kit's parents wanted them to be kept safe and out of the way (and unknown) for as long as possible. Its kind of like hiding the Ring in the Shire.

Aaaand, I never thought about the rest. I will keep those questions in mind and find a spot to... actually, I know the perfect place(s) to explain those.

I've been working on an outline-ish thing. Its not that bad, just very dull.

Really? Huh, never knew that. Oh well, I'll deal with copyrights when I get that far.

Eh, like I said, I don't mind. I like getting tips to improve my writing. I want to get better, and not just through experience.

 

[Mozart the Meerkitten]

Chapter three
The littlest warriors​

“Frodo, Shadow, Smokey! Where are you kits? Come along, its no time to be playing games!”

A tiny gray head poked out of a bush, “But Missy, we’re playing hide-and-seek.” The kit protested.
“You can play later! Its almost time for the counting, hurry!” the old she-cat urged.
“Okay, fine. Smokes! Shadow, come out!”
Two more small kittens walked out of the nearby foliage to stand by the old black-furred, white striped she-cat. One of the kits was solid gray, the other jet black. The first kit, Frodo, was gray with white stripes.
“Come on!” Missy hissed, trotting off towards where a long line of bedraggled prisoners and slaves was standing. Quickly she shoved her way into the line and made way for the three kittens.

A guard was making his way leisurely down the line, checking a clipboard as each of the creatures called out a number. When he reached Missy and the kittens however he halted for a moment to stare at them.
“Whose kits are those?” he demanded.
“My daughter’s. She is number 72. I am number 23. They have not yet been assigned numbers.” Said Missy calmly.
“Fine,” growled the guard, looking down at the kittens he pointed to each of them in turn and said, “Your numbers are 251, 252 and 253, understood?”
The three kittens looked at each other and Frodo whispered, “I didn’ know that numbers went that high.”
“They understand.” Missy answered for them. The guard grunted and moved on. Missy let out a sigh of relief. Up till this point she had managed to keep the kits hidden, but they had gotten bigger and more mischievous and so she had been forced to subject them to slave numbers.
Not that any of them understood it yet.

As the line broke up for the prisoners to head to their day’s tasks the kits scampered off squeaking happily. Missy sighed and hurried after them.
“Kits!” she called, “Come here!”
The three walked over rather sheepishly and looked up at her, their little tails dragging.
“You three are six weeks old now and I expect you to help me now, understand?”
“Yes Miss Missy.” The kits replied in unison.
Missy smiled at them, “That’s better. Now come, we have things to do.”
“What do you do all day, other than look after us?” asked Smokey.
“I take food and water out to those in the fields at lunch, tend to the sick and injured and do other small tasks. Today I am supervising a harvest group.”
“What are they harvestin’?” Shadow squeaked.
“The orchards; apples and plums and such.” Missy replied.
“Can we eat some?” asked Frodo hopefully.
“Only a few little ones.” Missy said, “If the guards notice many are missing we could get into trouble.”
“Oooh.” The kits said in unison.
Missy shook her head.

It was going to be a long day.

****​

 

[Mozart the Meerkitten]

This part isn't much different from my orginal version, but it has a few more details in it :


Deep in the forest a low humming sound could be heard. Then, suddenly five tomcats leapt out of the undergrowth and promptly broke into song;

“Oh we are the brave,
Oh we are the fearless!
We stand true,
For all that is good!
We fear none,
For none ever challenge us,
Once they see our bravery,
They all flee in fear!
Catlition! Catlition!
What a wonderful call!
Catlition! Catlition!
It is our battle cry!”

“Ahh, its good to be back!” said their leader, a big gray tomcat with white stripes on his sides called Ribbony.
“Yes, it’s been too long!” his brother, a huge black-and-white warrior named Explorer agreed.
“Things have changed. The forest is quieter than it used to be.” Murmured Creamy, the third of the brothers in the group.
“Reandalawo’ll still be there though.” Said Ribbony.
“How do you know, Ribbony?” asked Brightheart, who was a young gray tomcat.
“Because Dora’s there. At any rate we won’t get back there for awhile. We should head for the other fortress, Meandrao, first.” Ribbony told them.
“Sounds good.” Said Clancy, Brightheart’s brother.
The others nodded and Catlition headed off towards the fortress of Meandrao.

****

 

[Mozart the Meerkitten]

I don't know if anyone even cares to read this revised book, but I wanted to post something that I found that illustrates (better than I ever could) how I feel about the long-suffering people who have commented and helped me critique my books and who have encouraged me to continue posting them. I hope you know who you are.

In a letter written in 1965, two years after C. S. Lewis’s death, Tolkien would describe the “unpayable debt” he owed him, explaining: “He was for long my only audience. Only from him did I ever get the idea that my ‘stuff’ could be more than a private hobby. But for his interest and unceasing eagerness for more I should never have brought The Lord of the Rings to a conclusion.”

 

[Mozart the Meerkitten]

*chokes on dust* Just reviving in case anyone wants to read this and give me suggestions. I haven't been able to write much lately, life is insane.

So this is from a few months ago now:

“I’ve got it!”
“No, I does!”
“Nu-uh, its mine!”

Frodo, Shadow and Smokey- whose names Missy often abbreviated to FSS- were scrambling up one of the apple trees in the orchard, all trying to get the last few apples on the tree before their siblings.
“Careful, kits!” Missy cautioned as Frodo walked out onto a particularly thin branch.

Frodo, however, was not paying attention. He had sighted an apple on the end of the branch that was almost as big as he was, and the little cat was determined to get it. He shimmied further and further along the branch until he could just reach it. He stretched out one little paw to grab it and…

CRACK! The branch he was standing on snapped and with a terrified squeak, Frodo tumbled down towards the ground. Normally this would have resulted in a pretty badly injured kitten, but it was at that moment that one of the guards- an unsuspecting young fox- happened to be walking past. Frodo landed with a small thud on the fox’s head then rolled off onto the ground, unharmed.

The fox, however, was startled and turned a full circle before he located what had just dropped onto his head. He snarled and said furiously, “What d’you think you’re doing falling on my head like that?!? Don’t you know who I am?”
Frodo stared at him, then replied, “Nope, never met’cha before.”
“Why you arrogant little good for nothing... The captain of the guard will hear about this! You’ll see!” he turned to go, then stopped and looked back at Frodo, “Or maybe I’ll just deal with you myself.”
Frodo’s little gray ears flattened as the fox came back towards him, drawing the whip out of his belt.

Missy could see what was about to happen and sprang forward, yelling, “Run Frodo, run kits!” then leapt on the surprised fox’s back.
The Frodo and his sisters shot out of the clearing like little furry arrows. The rest of the creatures however, gathered around to watch the fight that Missy was putting up with the fox.

Though she was old Missy was not fragile. She was strong and tough and a decent fighter, as the fox guard was finding out. The she-cat clung to his back, digging her sharp claws deep into his shoulders and haunches. He gave a yelp and bucked around, trying to throw her off, but she merely dug her claws in more firmly. Finally the fox rolled over, trying to dislodge her that way. Missy sprang off his back and stood on her hind legs, swiping at the fox’s face. He ducked and dodged around the side of her, drawing his claws along her side as he did so.
Missy turned to face him again and crouched. Fearing that she was going to jump onto his back again, the fox reared up on his hind paws and snarled. Missy dove underneath him, unbalancing her opponent and causing him to tumble to the ground. Instead of following up her attack though, she stood there staring at her opponent, panting.

When the fox realized that she wasn’t continuing the fight he rolled to his paws and growled, “You’re under arrest!” turning to the creatures who had been watching he said, “Go get some of the other guards! Hurry!” obediently several of them darted off, but most of them stayed, eying Missy with respect and the fox with contempt.
Three more guards arrived to escort the old she-cat to the dungeons. The fox followed them, furious at what had happened and that he had been beaten by this cat.

Meanwhile, Frodo, Shadow and Smokey were crouched deep in a bush, watching these events with wide eyes.
“We gotta get help!” Frodo squeaked to his sisters, “This is our fault and we gotta help make it okay again.”
Shadow and Smokey nodded, looking very serious.
“We’ll split up. Shadow, you an’ I will look for help. Smokey, you go tell mama what happened.” He said.
Smokey hurried off in the direction the guards had taken. Frodo pointed to the right and said, “You go that way, I’ll go this way.” Then the two kittens split up, heading in opposite directions.

****

 

[Copperfox]

Mozart, I believe you're aware that I insert summaries in my long stories. The more so because this thread of yours did have a long hiatus, it would be helpful to your readers if you provided a reminder of what came before.

 

[Mozart the Meerkitten]

Well, hullo again all, its been a long time since I updated this thread.

However instead of updating my book (like I ought to sometime) I am going to tell you what I did tonight.

So tonight was my youth group's Talent Show night. I have never participated in such things before, because 1. For a long time I didn't know what my talent was, 2. Writing never seemed like a loud talent to me, and 3. I'm shy and scared to talk to/in front of people. Well, a few weeks ago when I first heard of this Talent Night I thought, "Well maybe I could read something aloud." I told my youth pastor my idea and he said it was fine, but my story had to be related to Christmas. I thought about writing a whole new story, but instead settled on one that I wrote last year (I think). I posted it on here- its called "The Birth of a King, or a Warrior Kittens Christmas special", it may be in one of my other threads. Anyway, I decided that I would read that if I was going to read anything. Well, I got busy (my dad went to the Phillippines with a work crew to help, so my mom and I had to do all the stuff he usually does at home- including everything with the woodstove so that we wouldn't freeze) and kinda forgot about this idea until a couple of days ago. So last night I got my mom to print out my story, but when I went to read it to her I panicked and insisted it wasn't good enough, and what if nobody liked it?
Well, I was very worried, and not sure I wanted to go through with this whole matter. Then my mom told me this morning that it didn't matter if PEOPLE liked it, as long as I read it for God and brought glory to Him through the talent He has given me. Then I kind of had a mental breakdown at the library today as the stress of the past 8 days fell on me. Then, suddenly my purpose seemed clear- I should go to youth group and read my story. I wasn't sure why I felt so strongly about it and concluded that it must be God prompting me. So I got my mom to take me to youth group tonight after asking my youth pastor if I could still join. He of course said yes and so I went.
I got called up to read rather suddenly, but I was ready- I'd read over my story twice out loud already, once to my mom on the way there by the light of my Sonic Screwdriver and once alone. So I walked up and read, quite well, I think, though I was shaking and sweating. When I finished the story there was this thundering of applause and I smiled- "They liked me! They really liked me!"
I honestly didn't expect any more than that. Of course as this was a Talent Show there were 4 places where you could win something. I sat calmly, already reconciled with the fact that I wouldn't win anything when my youth pastor says, "And in second place -MY NAME HERE-!"
I sat in stunned silence, my eyes very wide. I still can't believe that. I'm also not at all disappointed that I got second place- like I said I didn't really expect to win anything- because the girl who got first TOTALLY deserved it and if she had lost to me I would have been upset. My prize wasn't anything exciting, but I got second place. I got second place in a Talent Show. I also got some very wonderful comments.

This was totally a God thing- especially with how hard my week has been- and I am so grateful that I did it and I didn't get scared. I think that this year I'm finally really starting to grasp that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me- including everything from rappelling down a 100 foot castle wall despite my terror of heights to winning second place in a youth group talent show by reading a short Christmas story that ties in with my books, despite my fear of talking in front of people. I mean, wow. If you ever doubt that there is a God... just come talk to me. I mean, really, there are so many things in my life that only God could help me do.

So God bless, Merry Christmas and Live Long and Prosper.

 

[Mozart the Meerkitten]

Right, so, even if nobody cares to comment on my story anymore (which is okay) I'm still going to use TDL as a backup in case my flashdrive or whatever fails. That way, I'll still have my books unless TDL goes down, and I hope it never does.


Shadow trotted through the trees, her little ears pricked for anyone who might be around. None of the other slaves had been willing to help her, but one had glared at her and suggested that she look in the orchard. The black kitten was just about to give up and head out to find Frodo and see if he had found help when she heard voices. They were gruff and strange sounding, but maybe whoever it was could help her.
As the little cat hurried forward the voices became clearer and she could distinguish them enough to pick up on their conversation.

“I’m telling you, Ribbony, there is something seriously wrong here. I looked around and all the creatures are working, but there are guards with whips watching them!” said the first voice.
“D’you think that Meandrao could’ve been taken over while we were gone?” said another, this one sounded older.
“Maybe, maybe… I hope not though. That would mean that Reandalawo was the only free stronghold left in the forest.” Said a third voice.
Silence hung thick in the air for a moment before a fourth, deeper voice said quietly, “It may interest you to know that we’re being watched.”
Instantly the voices lowered into almost inaudible whispers. Shadow leaned forward to try and hear more, then gave a squeak of fear as one of her paws slipped and sent her sprawling into a small clearing, where she could see the speakers. They were five, large, formidable looking tomcats, three of whom had swords.

“Um, I just…” the little black kitten stuttered, trying to back out of the situation.
“Well, what have we here?” said a big gray white-striped tomcat. He sounded surprised and curious though, not mean and menacing like the guard’s voices.
“Looks like we’ve got a tiny eavesdropper.” Said a black and white tom.
“I’m not tiny!” Shadow squeaked defiantly.”
“That’s a matter of opinion, kit.” Said the gray tom, “Now what’s your name?”
“Shadow.” She replied.
“Fits.” Said the black and white tom.
“And you live here, in Meandrao?” asked the gray cat.
“Mean-Mean… what’s that?” the kit asked, a confused expression on her face.
“Why that’s the name of this place, of course!” said the gray tom, his face clouding.
“No, its Cogg’s Fortress.” Shadow said.
Surprise, fear, confusion and anger flashed across the faces of the five tomcats. The big cream-colored tomcat who had first sensed Shadow approaching was the first to recover.
“We should introduce ourselves.” He said in his deep, quiet voice.
The gray tomcat shook his head to clear it then nodded, “Right, we’re being rude, boys, where are our manners? Catlition, at your service, Miss Shadow.” He said with a bow, “I’m Ribbony, the leader of this group. These are my brothers, Explorer,” he indicated the black and white tom, “And Creamy. These other two young rascals are Clancy” he gestured to a brown tomcat with black ears, “And Brightheart.” He pointed to another gray tomcat.

“Now what happened here, kit? How did Cogg take over?” Ribbony asked.
“He came years ago, long ‘fore I was born. He came when my mama was a kit. Missy says that he broke the door down an’ rushed in with his army. They enslaved ever’body and now Cogg makes them work for him.”
“Missy! You don’t mean…” gasped Explorer, his eyes wide.
“We’ll see soon, Ex. Who is this Missy, kit, your caretaker?” Ribbony questioned.
“Yeah, she takes care of me an’ my siblings for my mama. But we kinda got her in trouble today. It was really my brother, Frodo, but…”
“What happened?” demanded Explorer.
Shadow shrunk back before his sudden change in tone, but Ribbony flicked his tail and said quietly, “Easy, Ex, easy. Tell us what happened, Shadow.”
“Well, my brother was tryin’ to get an apple off this tree an’ he accidentally fell onto the head of a soldier an’ made him mad. So Missy told us to run an’ then she attacked the soldier. Right when she was winning though she stopped an’ let them take her away!” she looked at them desperately, “I came looking for help an’ I found you.”
Ribbony nodded, “Lucky you did too. Not too many creatures would be willing and able to help you. However, you happened to have stumbled upon the very creatures that are not only willing, but completely able to help you.”
Shadow’s eyes lit up, “Oh thank you!”
“Who’s your mama, kit?” asked Brightheart curiously.
“Her name’s Tori. She works in the big building over there.” She pointed vaguely to the right, “She’s a servant.”
“Tori!” Explorer shook his head in amazement, “I expected to find some old friends here, Ribbony, but this is crazy!”
Ribbony nodded, “Well, there’s only one thing for it; a jailbreak. We’ll break Tori and Missy outta here, and Shadow and her siblings, of course.”
“When?” Clancy asked excitedly.
“Tonight. If we wait any longer we risk being found out. Shadow, you go find your siblings and your mama and tell them that Catlition’s here and that they need to meet us at this spot in the woods at midnight tonight, got it?”
Shadow nodded seriously, “Yeah.”
“Can you remember this spot?” asked Explorer.
The kit looked around at her surroundings, then back at Explorer and nodded.
“Then its settled.” Said Ribbony firmly, “Don’t tell anyone else about this, Shadow, okay?”
“Got it.” She looked up into Ribbony’s green eyes and smiled. “Missy said someday heroes would come and help us escape, I wonder if she meant you.”
Ribbony grinned around at his Catlition, “Hear that boys, we’re heroes now! I guess we’re coming in a little late to the war though.”
Shadow shook her head, “Oh no, the war’s still going on. I heard mama tell Missy that Reandalawo’s getting weak though.”
“Then its good we showed up to reinforce it!” said Brightheart, “Us and creatures like you, Shadow, the littlest warriors.”
“Frodo wants to be a warrior when he grows up, Smokey and I want to be spies.” Said Shadow proudly.
Ribbony smiled, “Well then here’s your first assignment. Now go on and give our message, hurry now!”

As the black kit ran off, Ribbony turned and looked at his Catlition.
“Well boys, I guess we’re back, and now its time to remind the world of who we are.”

 

[Mozart the Meerkitten]

Chapter four
Reandalawo


“That’s Reandalawo?”

Myrrh smiled at Dorthy’s amazement. Of course the kits had never seen anything like the fortress looming in front of them. For all of their short lives they had lived in humble dwellings. Even though they lived near both Reandalawo and Cogg’s Fortress they had never been to see them before.

“What else could it be?” Caspian scoffed to cover his own surprise.
“It’s the same fortress that was in the plans you showed us once. There should be two smaller gates on the north and west walls of the castle and there’s a village and fields inside the walls. It’s a self-sufficient fortress.” Said Toto.
“Show off.” Dorthy muttered.
“They’ve seen us.” Said Mozart, pointing to the guards on the walls.
“They’ll let us in.” Myrrh assured them, “They know me well.”

Sure enough, as they reached the huge wood-and-iron gate it swung open and they walked in unquestioned.
“This place is amazing!” said Mozart, her blue eyes wide as she took in the new world around her. As Toto had said there were a number of fields near the edges of the fortress and closer to the center was a small town made up of about two dozen houses. A blacksmith, several storehouses, an armory, and an inn made up the rest of the town. In the north corner of the fortress was wooded area, comprised mostly of fruit trees. A well worn path snaked through the village. At the end of it stood a building that towered over the surrounding houses. It was at least six stories high, with windows on every level save the highest.

“Since this is a time of war the Main Building and the inn will be filled with creatures from the nearby villages who’ve come here seeking refuge from Cogg. Four of the levels of the Main Building are devoted to dormitories, the others…”
“Save us the lesson, Toto, I think we can figure it out.” Said Dorthy, rolling her eyes at her brother’s monologue.
Toto looked hurt, but before he could retort Myrrh said “Hush you two, here comes the mistress of the fortress.”
Sure enough, a brown, fluffy she-cat was hurrying towards them. When she reached them they could see she looked rather disgruntled, “You could have given us some warning that you were coming, Myrrh.” She said.
“Oh, but I so like showing up unannounced.” Said Myrrh, amusement peppering her voice.
Dora sighed, “So who are these kits?”
“We’re not kits!” growled Caspian.
“Funny, you look a lot like kits to me.” Said Dora dryly.
Caspian glared at her, “Well you look old to me.”
“Caspian!” Myrrh turned and stared sternly at her young charge.
“What?” he said innocently.
Myrrh shook her head, “I’m making these four your problem now, Dora. You got my message a few months ago that I thought I had the ones in the prophecy in my care?”
“You think these four are them?” said Dora, looking skeptical.
“Rude though they may be at times, yes. They have incredible talent for ones so young and they all seem to have a deep connection with the White Cat. I think Rita was right.”
Dora considered them, “Maybe… I’d like to see their skills first paw though.”
Myrrh nodded, “To the training grounds then?”
In answer, Dora turned and started walking off towards the edge of the village. Myrrh and the kits followed her.

“Well this’ll be fun.” Said Dorthy grinning.
“You think we’ll have to duel each other?” asked Mozart, rather excitedly.
“Maybe. More likely though they’ll have us duel a more experienced warrior, to see how well our skills compare.” Said Toto.
“We can take ‘em.” Said Caspian, who was still fuming about Dora.

Behind the Main Building was a wide open space devoted solely to warrior training. There was a dueling arena, an archery range and an obstacle course, among other things. Closer to the wall a river ran swiftly through the fortress.
As they came closer, they could see a tomcat demonstrating sword fighting moves to some young creatures. He sensed their approach and turned to look at the curious group moving toward him. Dismissing the creatures before him, he walked up to Dora and Myrrh, his eyes questioning.

“Jak, I need you to assess the skills of these four. They are Myrrh’s charges.”
The tomcat shook his head, “They’re kits, not warriors. That’s all I have to say.”
“Then fight us and see if you still feel that way!” Caspian burst out, springing forward.
“It’d hardly be fair, you kits are so young and I’m an experienced warrior.” Said Jak.
“You won’t hurt us.” Growled Caspian, “And we’re not scared of you.”
Jak’s eyes narrowed, “Very well, if that’s how it’s got to be. This’ll only take a minute, Dora, Myrrh.”
Jak walked to the dueling area and pulled two wooden swords out of a barrel. He tossed one to Caspian and held the other at the ready.
Caspian caught the wooden sword and gripped it with both his forepaws, standing lightly on his back feet.

The other kittens and the two she-cats hurried forward to watch, gathering at the edge of the arena.
“Wanna bet on how surprised this Jak fellow is when he finds out how good Caspian is?” Dorthy whispered to her brother and sister.
“Considering how he was talking I think he’ll be pretty amazed. He seemed pretty cocky to me.” Mozart hissed back.
“Shh, it’s starting!” said Toto excitedly.
The two opponents circled each other, each waiting for the other to make the first strike. Then, without warning, Jak thrust forward, trying to unbalance Caspian quickly. Caspian jumped back and caught the sword on his own, thrusting it up and around in an arc so that it was Jak who stumbled.

Following up his advantage, Caspian swung his sword quickly at the older warrior. Jak parried each of his strokes, but surprise shown on his face at the amount of force this small black tomkit could put behind them. He was also amazed at the ferocity in Caspian’s face as he fought and he began to rethink his earlier assumptions.

Finally, the two duelers broke away, each staggering back and panting.
“You’re… not too bad.” Conceded Jak.
“Told ya.” Gasped Caspian, a look of triumph on his face.
Jak turned to Myrrh, “Are they all as good as this?”
Myrrh smiled, “Toto and Mozart are as good with the sword as Caspian is. Dorthy more than equals them in archery.”
Jak nodded, “Dora should assess her then, I’ll try the other two.”
“Are you sure? We wouldn’t want to tire you out.” Said Mozart sweetly.
Jak chuckled, “I think I’ll just have you duel your brother Caspian here. I got a pretty good feel for how good he is and I can evaluate how good you are based on that. You can go first.” He told her.
Toto piped up with a problem, “I’m afraid that won’t work, Jak. You see, Caspian is very protective of Mozart and he tends to go easy on her. So in this case that will make it harder for you to judge her skills.”
Jak considered this, “Alright, then you go first and I’ll figure something out while I watch.”

Jak stepped out of the ring as the two tomkits began their battle.
“You know, the simplest solution would be to just let me duel you.”
Jak looked up in surprise and saw Mozart sitting on the fence beside him.
“I can fight. Just because I’m tiny doesn’t mean anything. I’m as good as my brothers, just ask Myrrh.” She said.
Jak shook his head, “It wouldn’t feel right. You’re the youngest and the smallest. I’m not even sure why Myrrh brought you.”
Mozart smiled, “All my opponents underestimate me that way. As to why Myrrh brought me… I think it has something to do with a prophecy. That and I’m a good warrior.” She added the last part defiantly.
“I’m not fighting you.” Said Jak, with finality in his tone.
Mozart glared at him, “Fine.” The little she-cat jumped to the ground and walked off towards where Myrrh and Dora were testing Dorthy.
‘Gone to tell her mommy what’s happened no doubt. I wonder what Myrrh was thinking bringing such a little kit into a war.’ Jak thought.

Suddenly, Jak heard a shriek and whipped around just in time to dodge the lunge of a bright, sharp and very real sword.
There in front of him stood little Mozart, holding a small sword with a blue gem in the pommel. Caspian and Toto stopped their own fight to watch. Dorthy, Myrrh and Dora were also hurrying over.
“Where’d you get a sword, Mozart?” called Caspian curiously.
“You’ll see soon.” Said Mozart, “But first I have to teach this tomcat a lesson.”

She swung the sword at him again and Jak leapt out of the way, surprise in his brown eyes. Quickly, he reached over and grabbed his own sword that he had left leaning on a nearby fencepost. He parried her next few strokes clumsily, unprepared as he was for the tiny cat’s onslaught.
Mozart swung her sword swiftly and precisely. Some of the moves she used Jak had never seen before, for Mozart had made them up. She was quick and agile and so small that Jak had a hard time following her movements.
Once he got his bearings though, Jak rebounded with an attack of his own. He swung his sword viciously at her, lunging and stabbing, trying to disarm her.
Suddenly, Mozart dove between Jak’s legs, unbalancing him as well as coming up behind him. She sprang up and kicked him in the back, causing him to stagger forward. Then she swung around in front of him again, and, while he was still marveling at her speed, she sprang forward and twisted her sword around the hilt of his. He gave a yelp and dropped his weapon, staggering back.

Mozart lifted her sword to his chest.
“I. Told. You. So.” She panted.

 

[Mozart the Meerkitten]

Chapter five
The chosen ones​

Jak stared at Mozart in surprise for a few moments. As he watched her, a strange change came over her; her body drooped and she fell back onto all fours. Before she bent her head down though he saw the blue fire that had blazed in her eyes die, she was a normal kitten once more.

Mozart’s brothers and sisters ran over to her excitedly and began throwing questions at her.
“That was amazing, Mozart! I didn’t know you had it in you!” grinned Caspian.
“It was pretty good.” Said Toto.
“How’d you do it, anyway?” asked Dorthy.
“I-I don’t know.” Mozart said quietly. She had sat down, one paw still holding her sword loosely.
“It was incredible! Fantastic!” Caspian said enthusiastically.

Myrrh and Dora exchanged glances. Dora raised one eyebrow in a question, but Myrrh shook her head. Dora nodded her understanding.
“It wasn’t bad,” the fluffy brown she-cat stepped in, “But Jak isn’t exactly a swordsmaster either. As warriors go, he’s not bad and usually he has more of a brain than the average soldier, but he’s not the best.”
Jak looked rather hurt and opened his mouth to say something, but a glare from Dora silenced him.
“But still, he’s four or five times Mozart’s size!” began Caspian.
“And as we saw she used her size to her advantage. Having a larger foe also means that it’s harder to take them down, though. They can sustain more wounds, for instance, than your sister would be able to.” Dora said.
“Yeah, but…” Caspian faltered, Dora was making it seem as if Mozart had done nothing out of the ordinary, yet he couldn’t figure out a valid argument against what she had said. He glared at the she-cat, “Mozart still did good!”
“Maybe, but she’ll need more training. You all will.” Dora let her yellow gaze sweep over the four young cats.

Myrrh nodded, “In the meantime though I suggest you four get some food and then sleep. I’ll be leaving to return home tomorrow morning.”
“You’re leaving already?” said Dorthy, dismayed.
Myrrh nodded, “I told you, I am needed at home more than here. Now run along, we’ll catch up with you soon.”
The four kittens trotted off, tails and ears drooping slightly, towards the Main Building, leaving the three adults alone.

Once the kittens were out of earshot, Jak exploded, “What do you mean I’m not that good of a warrior? I’m one of the best in Reandalawo, I’m, I’m…”
“You’re not as good as you think, Jak, and at any rate this is more important than your feelings. The fate of the entire forest may hang with those four kits.” Said Myrrh.
“What do you mean?” demanded Jak.
“They’re Jako and Rita’s kits.” The effect of these words on Jak was instantaneous. His mouth dropped open and his eyes were automatically drawn back to the four now-distant figures of the kittens.
“They can’t be,” he said weakly.
“They are.” Said Myrrh, “Rita and Jako left them in my care before they went off into that fateful battle against Cogg.”

“Why didn’t you tell me!” yowled Jak, suddenly angry again, “They’re my kin! I had a right to know! I thought Rita had given her kits up to some stranger again, like the last two times! I never thought I’d see any of them again! And here they were, not a day’s journey from Reandalawo! How could you?” tears of fury and distress were beginning to well in Jak’s eyes, despite his attempts to conceal them.
“Calm down, Jak! I had my reasons,” said Myrrh, her eyes boring into Jak’s.

The tomcat took several deep breaths and shut his eyes. When he opened them again, he looked calmer, but still upset.
“Why didn’t you tell me?” he asked.
“I didn’t want any more creatures than necessary knowing about them. If Cogg had found out about me and my little farm he would’ve destroyed it long ago, especially if he had suspected that the Chosen ones were there.”
“The cats from the prophecy?” said Jak with surprise, “You think those four are…”
“You said yourself that they were pretty good at swordfighting.” Myrrh reminded him, “And I believe that what happened to Mozart when she fought you was proof. I didn’t teach her half those moves, but I’ve known some who have used them. I believe that the White Cat felt it was time to show us the cats from the prophecy and that he has done that today.”

“What do you think that the White Cat did to her exactly?” asked Dora.
Myrrh looked at her, “You’ve felt his strength come into your heart during battles. It allows those who believe in him to do great things, to win battles they never would be able to win normally.”
“‘His power will run through them,’” Dora quoted.
“Exactly.” Myrrh said.
“So you think that those four will be the ones to defeat Cogg?” gasped Jak.
“Yes. As I said though, I don’t want anyone to know. It would endanger the kits and Reandalawo as well. I’m not sure if Cogg knows about the prophecy, but if he thinks that there is someone who could defeat him here he would redouble his efforts to capture Reandalawo. This is why I kept Mozart, Dorthy, Caspian and Toto a secret for so long- I did not want Cogg to destroy them before they were ready. I also don’t want them to become overconfident.” She added the last part with a hint of amusement in her voice.
Dora nodded, “That alone could be their undoing. Don’t worry, Myrrh, we will continue to train them.”
“I hope you will do more than that.” Said Myrrh quietly.

 

[Mozart the Meerkitten]

Chapter six
Catlition Returns​

“I can’t believe it. You leave us to the mercy of Cogg for four years, and then you just show up again! The nerve!”
“Well, we could just leave you here if you want, Tori.” Said Explorer innocently.
Tori glared at him. She and her three kittens were standing in the little clearing with Catlition. Brightheart and Clancy had gone off to determine the movements of the guards about an hour ago. Ribbony was sitting off to one side, smiling at Tori.
“You’re still feisty as ever Tori.” He said.
“Bigger though. Last time we saw you, you were no bigger than your own kits are now.” Said Creamy.
“How old are you?” asked Frodo, his eyes wide.
“Ancient. We must be as old as the walls surrounding this place, right Ribbony?” Explorer said, with a hint of mischief in his tone.
“Maybe older.” Said Ribbony with a wink at the three kittens.
Tori rolled her eyes, “You’re not that old.”
“Oh and how do you know that?” demanded Ribbony, his eyes twinkling.

Tori was about to reply when Brightheart and Clancy came running out of the bushes.
“The guards’ll change in about twenty minutes. There’s about a five minute interval where nobody’s on guard that we can use to get out.” Clancy said breathlessly.
“Where? Tell me you kits haven’t been watching the main gate,” said Ribbony, a bit exasperatedly.
“Of course not, Ribbony, we know better than that.” Said Brightheart easily, “The southgate. Its nearby and will be easy for us to get out of.”
Ribbony nodded his approval, “How could I have ever doubted you? Creamy, you and Clancy take Tori and the kits to the southgate to wait. If we’re not there on time then get out while you can and we’ll figure something else out.”
Creamy and Clancy nodded and beckoned Tori and the three kits over.

Tori and her daughters went to them without hesitation, but Frodo remained standing stubbornly in the middle of the clearing.
“I wanna fight!” he said defiantly.
Ribbony crouched down to his level, “There’ll be plenty of battles for you to fight in, little warrior, but this is not one of them. You must go with Creamy and Clancy to escort your sisters and mother safely out.”
Frodo still looked upset, so Explorer said, “A good warrior does as he is ordered, no matter how much he doesn’t like it.”
Frodo’s ears flattened for a moment, then lifted again and with a sigh he went over to his mother and sisters.

Ribbony nodded and turned to Explorer and Brightheart.
“Its Jailbreak time.”

****

Missy sat on a pile of dirty straw in a cold dungeon cell in Cogg’s fortress. She heard a door open at the top of the stairs and looked up to see an orange and brown tomcat coming down towards her. There was something familiar about him, but she couldn’t pinpoint what it was. She had seen him before, of course- he was Cogg’s second-in-command- but for some reason she felt like she should know him. She had never been able to figure out who he was though and had given up long ago.

“Ah, the disobedient old she-cat, apprehended for attacking a guard. Its Missy isn’t it?”
Missy was surprised that he knew her name- afterall he was the second-in-command.
“Of course you know me,” he said, “I am Tigerclaw, Cogg’s favored advisor. I have come to inform you of what your fate will be. For your insolent behavior you will have the honor of a public execution, so that you may spare others from your doom.”
“How kind of you.” Said Missy sarcastically.
“It is, isn’t it? I always was a generous creature.” Tigerclaw smiled evilly.
He turned to leave, but Missy’s voice stopped him for a moment.

“You should tell your master that he will not go unpunished forever. And neither will you. Someday you will be justly executed, by the one with the authority to do such things justly. Someday your punishment will be a thousand years in the prison of the White Cat- a prison much worse than this. On that day, I and all the others you have killed will be avenged.”
Tigerclaw whipped around, “Your babbling will come to nothing, old cat!” he growled, then stormed off, slamming the door behind him.

Missy sighed, would these evildoers ever learn?

****
Ribbony crouched in the prison hallway and waited for the tomcat to disappear down the hall before creeping up to the door to Missy’s cell.

“Stand guard, Ex,” Ribbony whispered to his brother. They had left Brightheart keeping watch hidden in the shadows outside the back door they had used to get in.

Ribbony lifted the heavy metal bar on the door and walked into the room. Once inside, he kept to the shadows so that the old she-cat couldn’t see him clearly.
“Now what?” Missy sounded as spirited as ever. Ribbony smiled to himself, Missy had enough courage for ten creatures- even when faced with death.
“I’ve come to take you away.” Said Ribbony.
“Going to kill me already? Well at least you’re punctual.”
Ribbony walked forward and thrust a lock pick into the door, turning it until it clicked. The barred door swung open and Missy sprang out, claws and teeth bared. Ribbony just barely managed to dodge her attack.

“Missy, it’s me!” he gasped.
“You guards all look the same to me.” Missy snarled. She had landed neatly on the floor not far from him.
“No, it’s me. Ribbony!”
Missy squinted at him in the dim light, “Well by clove… it is you! Rapscallion! Where have you and your brothers been all these years? Leaving us to fend off Cogg by ourselves, why the nerve!”
“Yes, yes, I know. Tori’s already given me a lecture. Now we have about five minutes to get to the southgate before the guard changes, so I suggest we save the catching up for later.” Ribbony said, stopping her tirade.
“Fine,” said Missy, “But don’t think you’re getting off easy; I’ve been planning my speech to you about how you ran off and left us all on our own for four years.”
Ribbony smiled in spite of himself, “I’m sure. Now come on.”

Explorer eased the door open for them again and the three cats hurried through the hallway.
“Where are we going? I thought this prison only had one entrance.” Said Missy.
“Yes, but it has many exits.” Replied Explorer with a good-natured grin.
Missy rolled her eyes at him, “You always were an exasperating kit.”
“We found a trapdoor.” Explained Ribbony.
“Of course you did. I would expect no less from Catlition.” Missy said confidently.
At the end of the hall was an earthen wall. Ribbony stopped, turned round and stood up on his hind paws, the tips just brushing the roof. Since the prison was underground the roof was also made of dirt. Finally Ribbony found what he was looking for, hooked his claws into the dirt and pulled, hard.

Dirt flew everywhere as a small, iron trapdoor swung noiselessly down. Coughing Missy said, “Couldn’t you have found a less suffocating way, Ribbony?”
Wiping dirt out of his eyes, the big gray tomcat shook his head, “No. Now come on.”
The three of them jumped up into the hole made by the door and started crawling through a narrow tunnel. Explorer- who came last- shut the door behind them.
They tried to hurry, but by the time they emerged, blinking and coughing into the open air they had less than a minute left.
“Run!” hissed Brightheart, darting off towards the wall. The three older cats followed him, heedless of being seen.

When the reached the southgate though they could see that they were too late. The two new guards stood talking quietly with each other. At least, thought Ribbony, the rest of their group was nowhere to be seen.
“Now what?” asked Brightheart, fidgeting anxiously.
“Now we remind the world who Catlition is.” Growled Ribbony, rising out of the bushes like a shadow. Explorer followed his lead.
“Hello, fellas! Fine night, eh?” called Ribbony.
The two creatures- a fox and a rat- tensed nervously, gripping their weapons tightly, “Who’s there?” called one of them.
“Nobody you’d know,” Ribbony began cheerfully.
“But somebody you’d be wise to remember.” Finished Explorer, his voice dropping dangerously low.

Then without warning the two tomcats sprang forward yelling “CAAATLITIOOOOON!”
The battle was over before it had begun. Ribbony grabbed the end of the rat’s spear and swung him around into the wall with a sickening thud. Explorer dodged the fox’s sword thrust and clubbed him on the head with a rock. The two tomcats then easily lifted the bar on the southgate door and shoved it open. Missy and Brightheart hurried over to join them. Then the four creatures slipped out into the dark night, leaving the southgate door open.

 

[Mozart the Meerkitten]

Chapter seven
The fateful mission​

“Okay, so fess up, sis, how’d you get your own sword?” demanded Caspian.
“Myrrh gave it to me, of course. I’m also gonna get a dagger, and something else too- I think. You three get weapons soon too.” Mozart replied importantly.
“Why did you get yours first?” Dorthy asked.
“Because I told Myrrh I wanted to duel Jak and she said, ‘Okay, but you’ll need this,’ and handed me this sword.” Mozart unsheathed it and held it up proudly. It was plain and unadorned except for a blue sapphire gem on the pommel. The sheath was dyed dark purple and smelled of leather. It had a weaving design on it that looked like flowering vines.
“I wonder what ours look like?” said Toto, clearly imagining his own sword.
“We’ll have to get them from Myrrh, Mozart shouldn’t be the only one with a proper weapon.” Said Caspian.
Mozart smiled at him. She knew her brother wasn’t being impatient just so he could look like a warrior, but because he was nervous that something might happen to her and that he wouldn’t be able to properly protect her.
“Or maybe you shouldn’t. The thought of you with a real sword, Caspian, is more terrifying than having to face an army!” the little she-cat joked.
Caspian’s ears turned red as Toto and Dorthy burst out laughing. “Hey! I mean, its just… ooo!” he glared at them, trying to mask his embarrassment with anger.

When he had recovered enough to speak again Toto said, “So, should we go in and get some food?” he pointed to the open door to the Main Building.
Dorthy nodded, “My stomach thinks we should so I say yes!”
“Don’t worry, Caspian, we’ll try not to embarrass you too much.” Grinned Mozart. Caspian glared at her, but she could tell he was suppressing a smile.
“Alright then, come on you three buffoons, lets go in before I starve to death.” He said with mock seriousness.

Just as they were about to walk through the door though they heard a banging noise on the Gate.
“Wonder what that is?” said Dorthy.
“Let’s go see!” Caspian said eagerly, his hunger forgotten.
“Hey! Wait! Guys, it might not be safe!” Toto ran after his siblings, yelling frantically.
Dorthy scrambled up the wallsteps first and peered over the top. “They’re cats!” she yelled, “Big ones too.”
“Should we let them in?” asked Mozart, standing on tiptoe and peering over the wall beside her sister.
“It might not be safe, they could be spies.” Warned Toto, “Maybe we should ask the grown-ups…”
“Where’s your sense of adventure, Toto? They’re just as likely to be good as bad, and we’re in a fortress with hundreds of warriors- I think they can handle a few cats.” Said Caspian eagerly.
Toto snorted with annoyance, “Where’s your sense of caution? And there’s nobody around but us! If they are bad we’re outnumbered, outsized and inexperienced. The chances of us winning a fight against experienced warriors is…”
“Oh be quiet Toto!” Dorthy said, rolling her eyes with exasperation.
“How about we just ask them?” suggested Mozart reasonably, then, before anyone could object, she called down to the cats below. “Hello down there! Who are you, and are you friend or foe?”
The cats looked up, surprised. Then one- a big gray tomcat with faint white stripes on his sides and bright green eyes- yowled back up at her, “We are Catlition! Fierce and mighty warriors returned after a long absence. With us are the she-cats Tori and Missy- old friends of Reandalawo- and Tori’s three young kittens; Frodo, Smokey and Shadow.”
“Hasn’t Myrrh mentioned Catlition before?” asked Dorthy, then, not waiting for an answer she called back, “Hey! Have you guys ever known a cat called Myrrh?”
Ribbony- for that was who it was- looked a little surprised, but yelled back, “Yes, she is a good cat- very wise. We stayed with her once when we were younger.”
“Open the door.” Said Mozart quietly.
“But Mozart, what if they’re lying? What if it’s a trap? What if…” began Toto.
Mozart turned and stared at him hard, “What-ifs don’t make decisions, Toto, they just give you the worst case scenario. If we wanna do something worthwhile in this war then we gotta start taking chances. Now open the gate.”

Surprised, Toto stood there for a moment processing her words. Then he shook his head and began to head down the stairs again, followed closely by Dorthy and Caspian.
Mozart looked down once more at the group of cats, then followed.