BEGINNING OF THE END // sick

[RHINESTONE.]

LEADER ❝ RHINE ❞ PALMCLAN

Lately, things had grown much more difficult for Rhinestonestar. Really, things had grown more difficult for the group as a whole, but Rhine especially was feeling the effects of it all. There was a great deal of stress that weighed heavily down upon his shoulders, and each day that passed only made it worse. More and more of their prey seemed to be escaping underground, intent on getting away from the sudden cold weather that plagued them. The rust colored tom had even begun to grow used to a feeling of hunger within his stomach, everpresent and difficult to get rid of. Even when food was offered to him, he often turned it down, not wanting to take it away from other members of the clan. Members like Foamkit, who he knew to be a growing boy going through his own struggles with the recent rash of harsh weather they were having. On some level, the older feline knew that he was behaving in a manner similarly to Foamkit – impulsive and without prior thought, no doubt eventually leading to some kind of downfall. However, Foam had time for sickness now. There would be time for Rhine to succumb once he knew that his clan was safe.

The male had been returning from yet another unsuccessful hunting patrol, when he noticed Cottontuft emerging from the nursery, flanked by a rather weak looking Foamkit. Wincing as soon as Foam fell down within the entrance of the nursery, Rhinestone made his way over, ignoring the growl of protest his stomach put forth. Sparing a brief glance towards Cotton, Rhine hesitated before muttering to her, concern clear in his voice, "Looks like he hasn't been recovering as quickly as I'd hoped..." On some level, the ruddy feline felt as though that was his fault. He should've been able to find a proper medicine cat by now, so that Foam wouldn't be forced to suffer. Sighing heavily at his own continued failures, the leader then moved forward, sitting down between the child and the corner of the nursery entrance. He laid his long tail down upon the blanket covering Foamkit, questioning softly as he sat, "Foamkit...? Are you alright? I know things are tough right now, but laying down here in the cold isn't going to make things any better..." Rhinestone found himself conflicted, between helping the boy outside or ushering him back within the den. On one hand, he didn't want Foam to get any worse, but going outside could be good for him, even with the weather.

NEVER OPENED MYSELF THIS WAY
LIFE IS OURS, WE LIVE IT OUR WAY

— Reggan